The layover guide to 24 hours in Singapore

As your plane descends over the Garden City, you can bask in the views of the magnificent waterfront along the Singapore River, the iconic towers of Marina Bay Sands, and the architectural beauty of the Gardens by the Bay domes.

Changi being the busiest airports of the world have got lots to keep you entertained during a layover, it’s a lot more than that. So, step out of the airport, and hop on the taxi or metro because here’s a guide to the ultimate to-dos for your 24-hour in Singapore.

Breakfast in Marina Bay

Take a stroll around the home to quintessential Singapore skyline, Marina Bay. Soak in the views of tall buildings piercing the sky, the architecture of the Helix Bridge, Art Science Museum, Esplanade and the Merlion all in one place surrounding the blue waters of the Marina. Don’t forget to check out the newly opened floating Apple store in the middle of the water.

For a budget-friendly breakfast option, you can head to the Gluttons by the Bay - a collection of food vendors and push-carts which serve up an array of Singapore street food. For a fine-dine experience, head to TWG Tea Salon in The Shoppes Mall. This breakfast is sure to delight you with a fresh aroma of tea and coffee, a hundred unusual blends and some tea-inspired cakes and desserts.

Explore Tropical Beauty at Gardens by the Bay

This is the closest you can come to Avatar’s Pandora! The landscape will capture your attention the minute you spot them from afar and are just as exciting up close.

From the Esplanade, take a 10-minute stroll over the Helix Bridge and you’ll enter the world of gigantic supertrees, tropical flora and a misty cloud dome.in this carefully manicured 101-hectare garden along the Marina waterfront, learn about Heritage Gardens, and explore the cooled conservations of Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. The Cloud Forest has a 35-metre tall waterfall at the entrance – the soothing mist creating the perfect photo opportunity while it refreshes you from all the walking that this city needs you to do.

Indulge in Retail Therapy on Orchard Road

Walk down Asia’s most famous and swanky shopping street – the Orchard Road. This 2. 2km boulevard is flanked with the best names in couture and chic galleries like that of Alexander Mcqueen, Cartier, Gucci, Burberry and other upscale markets. You can find literally anything from apparel and cosmetics to homeware and the latest tech gadgets.

Post your retail therapy, head to the hawker stalls that grace the street or the food courts in the Orchard Street megamalls – right from the good-old McDonalds and KFCs to the charming fine-dine offerings. Look out for the local ice-cream sandwich vendors scattered over the Orchard road. This odd combination is a must-try for a unique dessert experience post-lunch.

Central Perk Café – for the Friends Fan in You

Now this one’s optional if you’re not a Friends TV sitcom fan, but if going to the sets of this legendary TV show has always been your dream, here’s your chance to enter a Friends paradise. Head to Central Perk Singapore – the only Warner Brothers-licensed café outside the United States. The iconic orange couch, the bar where Gunther worked, a replica of Rachel’s runaway wedding dress, the foosball table, Monica’s kitchen and the retro game machine.

The special coffee menu features 6 different roasts, each named after the characters. Place your order inspired by your favourite character, and watch a rerun or two of the TV show that keeps playing on the café television throughout the day.

Evening Stroll in the Haji Lane

There are plenty of colourful and quaint little neighbourhoods in Singapore that are a melting pot of art and culture. Little India, China Town, Haji Lane are some to name a few. One of the quirkiest streets in Singapore is nestled in Kampong Glam – the Haji Lane. This narrow and vibrant street is a short walk from the Bugis Street metro station and is filled with plenty of street art, murals, indie boutiques, tattoo parlours, café and restaurants.

Traditional fabric shops sit next to colourful graffiti walls while Middle-eastern restaurants grab your attention with their quirky taglines and local coffee shops pull you with their aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Once you’ve shopped for cool vintage souvenirs, rest your feet and munch on some burgers, falafels or chill out with a beer.

Party your way at Ce La Vi

Unwind and let loose at one of the most iconic rooftop bars of the world- the CÉ LA VI SkyBar on the 57th floor of the Marina Bay Sands! Relax to the tunes of lounge music, sip your cocktail and enjoy the views of the entire city.

If you want the tables that offer the best views, make sure you reach there by 7: 30 pm or 8 pm. Being surrounded by dazzling panoramic views, the illuminating water and the landmarks that glisten under the spectacular lighting show at Marina Bay from above, an experience not to be missed.

Changi Airport

The Changi airport distracts you from what the city outside has to offer through a beautiful waterfall amid the airport. With an indoor garden, a small cinema, a lake and many other amenities; this airport definitely sets a high standard. There is even a swimming pool and jacuzzi, accessible for a fee.

Shop at Changi’s duty-free outlets that carry everything from luxury goods and souvenirs to daily necessities. Make sure to try the bubble tea at TP Tea, traditional Singaporean dishes like Kaya spread or the sweet coffee, fondly knows as kopi there before you take a trip back.

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