Go on a Whirlwind Adventure During a Stopover in Singapore
For many people, a stopover is one of the most annoying things that can happen when you’re traveling because you’ll often be stuck inside the airport. Fortunately, if your stopover is in Singapore, you don’t have to worry about being bored.
There are so many things you can do during your stopover. You can explore Changi Airport itself or wander around the city center; you can even go to Sentosa for a bit if your schedule allows it!
For more recommendations on what to do during a stopover, read on. I’ve made sure to keep a varied list, so whether your stopover is only for a few hours or more than a day, you have many options to choose from.
Top Things to Do During a Stopover in Singapore
Explore Changi Airport
If your stopover is only for a few hours, then your best bet is just to explore Changi Airport. And don’t worry about getting bored because Changi Airport isn’t your typical airport; it’s a paradise in its own right too!
This airport has Jewel Changi, which is a shopping mall with world-class retailers and restaurants. So, you can have a shopping spree or treat yourself to delicious cuisines while waiting for your next flight.
Additionally, the airport also has several fun attractions. There’s the Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall that’s basically an Instagram icon at this point, but there are also slides, gardens, and giant nets; you’ll be spoiled for choice here!
Take a walk along the Changi Jurassic Mile
If you’re getting tired of being cooped up inside the airport, then head out to the Changi Jurassic Mile, which is literally just outside. As the name suggests, this attraction is a walkway stretch lined with life-size dinosaurs and giant eggs.
You can imagine that you’re in Jurassic Park, encountering all these majestic beasts. This is also the perfect opportunity to take photos!
Relax in Changi Beach Park
Changi Beach Park is located at the northern tip of Changi, and since it’s so far from the city center, it doesn’t attract many visitors, making it an underrated attraction. Because of this, it’s the perfect place to go if you just want peace and quiet.
You can sit on a picnic table and get lost in a book. Or you can head to the seafront bistro and order something hearty; dining here while enjoying the breeze is such a serene experience.
If you’re willing, you might also want to swim in the water for a short while. That should cool you down after spending hours under the harsh sun.
Roam around East Coast Park
Address: E Coast Park Service Rd, Singapore
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Website
Another great park for you to roam around and relax is East Coast Park, the biggest park in Singapore. Because of this, you have so much space to explore, and there are also several attractions that might pique your interest.
For example, there’s a skate park, so if you know your way with rollerskates, feel free to show off your skills here. If you’re a daredevil, you can also try to learn how to sail, windsurf, wind-foil, and other kinds of watersports activities!
There are also fun things to do that are free. For example, you can have a picnic on the green or head to Bedok Jetty and enjoy the view of the blue waters and the sunset.
Go wild at Wild Wild Wet
Address: 1 Pasir Ris Cl, Singapore 519599
Operating Hours:
- Saturday to Monday—11 am to 6 pm
- Wednesday to Friday—12 to 6 pm
- Closed on Tuesday
Contact Number: +6565819128
Website
If you’re tired of the oppressive heat, you might be interested in taking a splash at a water park to cool down. If so, then I highly recommend Wild Wild Wet in Pasir Ris.
It’s one of the largest water parks in Singapore and was also recognized as one of the top five water parks in Asia by TripAdvisor! So, you can expect to have a grand time here.
There are several pools if you just want to swim and chill, but if you’re a thrill seeker, the crazy water slides and rides might lure you in. In particular, Free Fall—an extreme, long water slide—will get your adrenaline spiking up and your heart pumping so hard.
Treat yourself to delicious local cuisine by visiting a hawker center
Eating at a hawker center is an integral part of Singapore’s food culture, so during your stopover, you should take the opportunity to visit a hawker center (or two or three if you have more time).
The hawker center nearest to the airport is Changi Village Hawker Center, but other notable examples include Maxwell Food Center, Golden Mile Food Center, and Hong Lim Food Center.
No matter which hawker center you choose, make sure to order the classics like laksa (a spicy noodle dish) and nasi lemak (fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and served with sambal, fried crispy anchovies, cucumber, and toasted peanuts).
Be one with the wild animals at the Mandai Wildlife Reserve
Address: 80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729826
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—8:30 am to 6 pm
Contact Number: +6562693411
Website
If you’re an animal lover, you might want to take a trip west to visit the Mandai Wildlife Reserve. This reserve is currently home to four parks, each with a distinct theme, so if you have a lot of time on your hands, checking them out is highly recommended.
The Singapore Zoo is probably the most popular park within the reserve area, but I personally love Bird Paradise because that’s where the penguins are. River Wonders is also great because of its boat adventure that takes you through the river wilderness.
You won’t likely be able to visit the Night Safari because it’s only open at night, but if your stopover in Singapore happens to be in the evening, don’t miss out on this park. There are many animals that you can only spot here like a chital or fossa.
Go on a shopping spree at Orchard Road
Orchard Road is undeniably an iconic destination in Singapore, so you might as well visit it during your stopover. If you’re a shopaholic, you’ll be delighted to visit this road because it’s lined with luxury shops and world-class shopping malls.
Orchard Central and ION Orchard are two of the most popular shopping spots, so head there if you want to treat yourself to something nice. There are also several restaurants lining the road, so when you’re hungry, you just have to take your pick.
If you’re tired of walking around and you just want to rest, stop by library@orchard. This modern library boasts countless books dedicated to young adults, and if you’re lucky, you might be able to catch a live music performance as well.
Ride the Singapore Flyer
Address: 30 Raffles Ave., Singapore 039803
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 10 pm
Website
When you get to the central area, chances are the Singapore Flyer is one of the first things you’ll see. After all, it’s a giant Ferris wheel (fun fact: it once held the title of the world’s tallest Ferris wheel).
Riding the Singapore Flyer is also one of the most popular tourist activities on the island, so why not give it a go? This Ferris wheel gives you a beautiful view of the city, especially Marina Bay, so don’t hesitate to take lots of photos.
You’ll also be able to try other cool experiences, such as a flight simulator and an exhibition featuring whimsical artwork. If you’re hungry, there are several dining options available here as well.
Enjoy the panoramic views of the city at the top of Marina Bay Sands
Address: 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018956
Contact Hours: +6566888868
Website
Another way you can enjoy panoramic views of the city is by heading to the observation deck on top of Marina Bay Sands. The scenery here is just so gorgeous, and it’s even prettier at night because of all the lit-up skyscrapers.
If your layover in Singapore is a day or more, you might consider booking a room at Marina Bay Sands as well. Since it’s a critically acclaimed hotel, you can expect nothing but greatness from its rooms and suites and other amenities.
Say hi to the Merlion
Address: 1 Fullerton Rd, Singapore 049213
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Contact Number: +6567366622
The Merlion is Singapore’s official mascot, so you should find a statue and say hi. There are only six approved Merlion locations, and the most popular is undeniably the Merlion Park on Fullerton Road (across the bay from Marina Bay Sands).
The Merlion statue at Merlion Park is about 9 meters tall and weighs 70 tons, so it’s quite a sight. And if you can come here early in the morning, you’ll be able to see the sunrise painting the statue golden!
Learn more about the nation’s history by visiting the National Museum of Singapore
Address: 93 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178897
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 6:30 pm
Contact Number: +6563323659
Website
If you’re a history lover, then you shouldn’t miss out on the National Museum of Singapore. It’s the nation’s oldest museum (it dates back to 1849!), and it’s also one of the biggest museums in all of Asia.
This museum is home to both historical artifacts and artwork made by Singaporean artists throughout the years. There are also art installations, festivals, and screenings hosted here, so you’ll really get a well-rounded look at Singapore’s history.
Get lost in the beauty of Gardens by the Bay
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—5 am to 2 am
Contact Number: +6564206848
Website
Gardens by the Bay is one of the most iconic landmarks in Singapore, so it only makes sense that it’s on your stopover itinerary.
The Supertree Grove alone makes this park worth visiting; those massive man-made structures are architectural marvels, and with plants creeping on their trunks, they’re a sight to behold. For a better view of everything, head to the Supertree Observatory.
Aside from the Supertree Grove, you should stop by any of the conservatories. Cloud Forest and Flower Dome embody what a green paradise looks like; you’ll also get to see exotic plants like the baobabs!
Get educated about botany at the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Address: 1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—5 am to 12 am
Contact Number: +6564717138
Website
If you can’t get enough of plants, another place that you should visit is the Singapore Botanic Gardens. This park is not just a public attraction but also a leading botanical institute, so you can learn more about botany here.
If learning is your priority, you should head to the Botany Center, CDL Green Gallery, or the Heritage Museum. But if you just want to enjoy a casual stroll, you can’t go wrong with the Bonsai Garden, SPH Walk of Giants, and the National Orchid Garden.
There are also options for casual or fine dining, so don’t forget to feed yourself.
Check out Arab Street
If you’re looking for an alternative to Orchard Road, then allow me to recommend Arab Street. Located in Kampong Glam, Arab Street is a lively enclave filled with colorful corners, unique shophouses, and several ethnic restaurants!
Hit some of its iconic and niche attractions, such as the Sultan Mosque (the golden dome is striking), The Gem Museum (find rare gems here!), and Children Little Museum (exhibiting vintage toys).
For shopping, stop by Sifr Aromatics for unique perfumes or any of the street markets for hidden gems. For dining, I recommend trying out Fika Swedish Cafe and Bistro, House of Kebab, or %Arabica.
Ride the cable car to Sentosa
Address: 109 Mount Faber Rd, Faber Peak, Singapore 099203
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—8:45 am to 9:30 pm
Contact Number: +6563610088
Website
If your next flight is still on the next day or later, then use this as an opportunity to ride a cable car to Sentosa! Simply head to Mount Faber Point, take a cable car, and disembark at the Sentosa station.
You’ll get to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the forest covering Mount Faber, the harbor, and Sentosa. It’s even better if you’re riding the cable car during the late afternoon; you’ll be able to watch the sunset!
Marvel at all the marine animals in the S.E.A. Aquarium
Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Sentosa Island, Singapore 098269
Operating Hours:
- Saturday to Tuesday, Thursday—9 am to 5 pm
- Friday—10 am to 5 pm
- Closed on Wednesday
Here’s another suggestion of what to do during your Singapore stopover if you’re an animal lover: visit the S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa.
One of the largest aquariums in the world, the S.E.A. Aquarium houses more than 100,000 marine animals from 1,000 species! Because of this, there’s always something to look forward to when you browse the various sections.
Additionally, there are various interactive programs and up-close encounters with animals if you’re interested.
Enter the world of Universal Studios Singapore
Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—11 am to 6 pm
Contact Number: +6565778888
Website
If you have a lot of time on your hands, you might as well spend it at a theme park. Luckily, Sentosa has Universal Studios Singapore, so head there ASAP!
As expected, stepping inside Universal Studios is like stepping into a whole new world. Here, you’re free to stroll down the Walk of Fame as if you’re in Hollywood yourself or you’re back in the age of dinosaurs.
If you’re a daredevil, don’t pass up the chance to try any of the rollercoasters and other crazy rides. You’ll be screaming the entire time, but it’s so worth it!
Live your Mario Kart dreams at Skyline Luge Singapore
Address: 1 Imbiah Rd, Singapore 099692
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday—11 am to 7:30 pm
- Friday—11 am to 9 pm
- Saturday—10 am to 9 pm
Contact Number: +6562740472
Website
Skyline Luge is the place to go if you want a fun and unique activity to do during your stopover (being a fan of the Mario Kart games is another plus).
At Skyline Luge, you’ll be able to operate a luge, which is kind of like a sled, on a designated track. There are also various themed trails here, so you can have a different experience every time.
If you’re traveling with kids, no worries because they can join in the fun. So long as they have an adult accompanying them, they can ride the luge and race against you.
Meet your favorite stars at Madame Tussauds Singapore
Address: 40 Imbiah Rd, Sentosa, Singapore 099700
Operating Hours:
- Saturday to Thursday—10 am to 6 pm
- Friday—10 am to 5 pm
Contact Number: +6567154000
Website
Meeting a famous person in real life is practically impossible, so the next best thing is to meet their wax figure counterpart. Madame Tussauds Singapore can provide that.
It’s actually unnerving seeing all the wax figures here because they look so real. But after a second or two of adjusting, you’ll find yourself taking selfies with as many celebrity figures as possible.
Aside from being a wax museum, Madame Tussauds also has 4D theaters and rides. Both offer a different kind of fun, so I recommend trying them out.