24-hours in Singapore. Practical tips to make the best of your layover

Without a doubt, Singapore is one of the most attractive Asian destinations. Considering its architectural wonders, diverse nature and rich culture, you should not miss a quick stopover during your trip around Asia. 

As Changi Airport is considered to be one of 5 most important airports in Asia, it is also a very common layover for many travellers. Although the airport has plenty to offer itself, it is definitely worth catching a train or a taxi to explore the vibrant centre of Singapore. 

For those deciding on which airline to pick, make the most of your trip to Asia and take the layover as an opportunity to visit Singapore! If you haven’t been before- you definitely won’t regret it. 

ARRIVING IN SINGAPORE 

Arriving in Changi Airport is usually a very pleasant experience. The airport is very spacious, clean and decorated with lush tropical plants everywhere you look. From my experience, there are always enough officers to control the airport traffic and you’re never stuck in a passport control queue for too long. 

LUGGAGE STORAGE AT CHANGI AIRPORT

If you’d like to drop off your luggage to travel comfortably, you can certainly do so. There are luggage storage points across all terminals as well as within the Jewel. The storage services are available 24/7 and the prices are as below:

-Loose items: S$5.00

-Small items (below 10kg): S$10.00

-Big/Odd items (above 10kg): S$15.00

-Extra large-sized items: S$18.00

For security reasons the luggage is going to be inspected at the drop off. It is also not recommended to leave any valuable items like cameras and laptops. 

TIME NEEDED

If your timetable allows, you should stay in Singapore for at least 24 hours. This is going to be enough time to see the best landmarks and take some rest in between travels. However, if your layover is no longer than 8 hours, you can still visit the one-of-a-kind Jewel and the city centre attractions. 

HOW TO GET FROM CHANGI AIRPORT TO THE CITY CENTRE?

There are two easy ways to get from Singapore Changi Airport to the city centre of Singapore and these are either taxi or metro service.

The MRT costs would be around 2 SGD whereas the taxi would cost at least 20 SGD. If you’re not in a rush and have plenty of time to explore, you can easily pick MRT which will take around 1 hour. The taxi on the contrary is a perfect option for short layovers as it takes less than 20 minutes to reach Marina Bay. 

MOVING AROUND THE CITY

When it comes to moving around the city centre, the MRT is the cheapest and most convenient transport option. Considering that the taxi will probably be stuck in the traffic, the train will save you a lot of time!

DO I NEED A VISA TO LEAVE THE AIRPORT?

Depending on where you are coming from, you may need a visa to enter the city. Although most of the nationalities only need a passport stamp, you should visit the Singapore immigration website to confirm the entry requirements. 

WHERE TO STAY IN SINGAPORE?

With its iconic architecture, Marina Bay Sands proudly overlooks the city centre and appears to be the most attractive hotel you can book during your layover. The iconic infinity pool located right at the top of the building is the one that many have on their bucket lists. Although it may be rather obvious, the skyline views from marina Bay Sands definitely call for a booking!

A budget alternative to Marina Bay Sands is Lloyd’s Inn which is located right in the heart of the city, only 10 minutes from metro station. 

THE JEWEL 

Discover the most spectacular architecture here at the Jewel at Changi Airport. This dome-shaped complex is home to retail, dining and some of the best Singapore’s entertainment.

When entering The Jewel, you will be astonished by the 40-metre-high Rain Vortex which appears to be the world’s largest indoor waterfall. Along with this impressive construction you can explore verdant nature amidst the 2,000 trees of the Forest Valley.

The Jewel can be visited during the short and longer layovers and it is not to be missed! Although many think that the Jewel is a part of the airport, it is actually located outside of the terminals which means that you need to go through the immigration first. Despite the huge demand, the queues are always being served promptly which means you will be able to visit even with a few spare hours. 

WHAT TO VISIT WHEN GETTING INTO THE CITY?

These are the top locations to visit in Singapore during at least 8 hours stopover:

-Gardens by The Bay- Singapore’s iconic central location. Stroll among lush tropical gardens located in the heart of a bustling city. 

-Supertree Grove- Beautiful by day and night, the Supertree grove is the complex of tall metal constructions standing by the Gardens by The Bay. This signature landmark is one of the most popular attractions in the city and is not to be missed!

-The Singapore Flyer- The world’s largest observation wheel, soaring 165 meters above ground. Located just by Marina Bay, the Singapore Flyer serves breathtaking views of the entire city.

-The Cloud Forest and The Flower Dome-  The conservatories are definitely worth visiting even during a short layover. Visit Singapore’s famous indoor waterfalls, stroll amongst unique tropical plants from all around the world and enjoy city’s finest architecture. 

-The OCBC Skyway- The pathway suspended above the gardens that links some of the Supertrees. Take 30 minutes to admire the city centre from above!

-Chinatown- The biggest of Singapore’s ethnic quarters. World of delicious food, inspiring architecture and colours. 

-Little India- The small district full of colorful temples, great food options as well as budget-friendly shopping. 

-Art Science Museum- Visit the lotus-shaped museum for the most inspiring, educational and interactive exhibitions. 

Are you planning to spend more than 24 hours in Singapore? 

Although Singapore is listed as the 19th smallest country in the world, there are plenty of things to do and see around! Here’s a list of must-see locations if you’re planning to stay in Singapore for at last couple of days:

• Explore the Botanic Gardens
• Visit Jurong Bird's Park
• Sign up for a night safari
• Explore Singapore's Museums
• Visit the River Safari
• Visit the colorful street of Koon Seng 
• Enjoy the beachtime at Sentosa Island
• Visit Katong Parankan shophouses
• Explore the graffitti art at Haji Lane