Planning your first trip to Singapore?
Ayos, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. As someone who was born and raised here, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your DIY adventure smooth, budget-friendly, and super sulit.
In this guide, you’ll get a sample 4D3N itinerary packed with must-see spots, tips on where to eat like a local, and free attractions that won’t cost you a centavo.
I’ll also cover essentials like how to stay connected with an eSIM, where to find affordable halal or vegetarian meals, and which apps to download before you land.
Whether you’re flying solo or traveling with barkada, this guide is built for Pinoys who want to explore Singapore with confidence and good vibes.
Before You Go: What Filipino Travellers Need to Know
Connectivity options: SIM cards vs. eSIMs for Singapore
Getting online in Singapore is super easy, but if you're after convenience and speed, eSIMs are the way to go.
While physical SIMs are still available at airports and convenience stores, they often mean waiting in line or fumbling with your phone.
With Airalo’s Singapore eSIM, you can activate your data plan before you even take off from Manila—perfect if you want to hit the ground running once you land.
- Unlimited data for just SGD 5.78 a day
- No queue at the airport
- Instant activation via QR code
- Keep your PH SIM for OTPs
- Easily buy online from apps like Airalo
- Starts working the moment you land
- Avoids roaming charges
- Works on dual-SIM phones
- Great for multi-country trips
- No need to fumble with SIM trays
- Easy to top up on the go
- Lets you stay connected during layovers
Ideal travel months and weather
Singapore sits right on the equator, so expect consistent tropical weather all year round.
Daily temperatures typically range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F), accompanied by high humidity that can make the temperature feel even warmer.
While rain is always a possibility, the drier months (February to April) are generally the most pleasant for sightseeing.
You’ll still sweat, but at least you're less likely to be interrupted by an afternoon downpour while exploring Marina Bay or Sentosa.
Budget breakdown: Daily cost estimates in SGD and PHP
Singapore has a reputation for being expensive, but it’s totally possible to travel smart without blowing your wallet.
On average, budget travelers spend about SGD 60–80 per day, which covers food, transport, and attractions. That’s roughly PHP 2,500–3,400 a day.
If you skip the shopping malls and stick to hawker centers, public transport, and free attractions like light shows and parks, you’ll stretch your peso further than you think.
Essential travel apps (SG MRT, Klook, Google Maps, etc.)
Having the right apps on your phone can make your Singapore trip way smoother, especially if it’s your first time. From getting around to scoring attraction deals, these apps save you time, money, and stress.
📶 Connectivity & Utilities
- Airalo – Purchase and activate an eSIM for mobile data on arrival
- Google Translate – Useful for the occasional sign in a non-English language
🚌 Transport & Navigation
- MyTransport.SG – Live bus arrivals, route planning, and transport alerts
- CityMapper – Comprehensive navigation for MRT, buses, and walking
- Google Maps – Reliable for real-time directions and location sharing
- Grab – Book rides easily; works well for airport transfers and short trips
- Gojek – Another ride-hailing app, sometimes cheaper than Grab
🍜 Food & Dining
- Chope – Reserve tables at restaurants and access dining discounts
- Burpple – Discover highly rated food spots and user reviews
- GrabFood – Convenient food delivery when you're too tired to go out
- Deliveroo – Another solid food delivery option with a wide selection
🎟️ Attractions & Travel Deals
- Klook – Book discounted tickets for attractions, passes, and tours
- VisitSingapore Travel Guide – Official guide for things to do and where to go
💳 Payments & Currency
- Maya (formerly PayMaya) Visa or Mastercard - You can only use their debit card (not the app) to make payments.
- GCash – Now supported in Singapore via Alipay+. Just look out for the Alipay+ or SGQR logo at stores like 7-Eleven, Guardian, and BreadTalk. Perfect for cashless payments using your phone.
- GrabPay – Widely accepted in Singapore for in-store QR payments, food delivery, and ride-hailing. Top up with a local or international card to use it smoothly during your trip.
- Cash – Many local merchants, including hawkers, still rely on cash as the primary form of payment. Do carry some with you to get the full local experience!
- ATM Withdrawal – Look out for ATMs with the PLUS logo if you’re using Visa, and the Maestro or Cirrus logo if you’re using Mastercard.
- FavePay – The payments wallet of Fave, a local deals, payments, cashback, and rewards app. However, you can only use it for selected partner merchants.
Why Singapore is a Great First Destination for Pinoys
Visa-free entry and short travel time
Being a visa-free country for Filipinos, you don’t need to fuss over visa applications or embassy appointments.
With just your passport and a return ticket, you can enter Singapore for up to 30 days. And the flight? It’s just under four hours from Manila.
You could leave in the morning and be sipping kopi by lunch. For busy folks like us who don’t want to lose days just getting somewhere, Singapore feels like an easy win.
A safe, modern city with world-class attractions
You’ll notice the moment you land: everything just works.
From the automated immigration lanes at Changi Airport to the spotless MRT stations, Singapore runs like a well-oiled machine.
It’s not only incredibly safe, where you can walk around at night without watching over your shoulder, but also packed with impressive attractions.
Whether you’re geeking out over the Cloud Forest’s misty waterfalls or snapping photos at Marina Bay Sands, there’s always something Insta-worthy around the corner.
Even if you’re not into touristy stuff, there are parks, museums, and neighborhoods full of character that offer a deeper look into the city’s diverse culture.
English-speaking locals and Filipino-friendly culture
One thing you'll quickly realize is how easy it is to get around and communicate.
English is one of our official languages. So whether you're ordering food, asking for directions, or chatting with a Grab driver, you're unlikely to face language barriers.
Plus, you won’t feel alone here. According to the Philippine Embassy, over 200,000 Filipinos live and work in Singapore. You'll find them in all kinds of roles, from nurses and caregivers to office professionals and creatives.
If you’re craving a little taste of Philippine food and culture, just swing by Lucky Plaza on Orchard Road. It’s like a mini-Manila, packed with shops selling Pinoy comfort food, salons, and remittance centers.
You’ll see groups of Filipinos hanging out, catching up, and enjoying a little piece of home away from home.
Singapore Travel Essentials Checklist For Filipinos
Travel documents and immigration requirements:
Before anything else, make sure your paperwork is in order. Singapore is efficient with border control, but that doesn’t mean you should wing it.
- A passport valid for at least six months from your date of arrival
- A return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation (a hotel booking, hostel reservation, or your friend’s address if staying with someone)
- Completed SG Arrival Card (submit it online up to three days before your trip)
- Sufficient funds
Quick Wardrobe Checklist:
Singapore is humid, hot, and sometimes rainy all in one day. Dressing smart here means striking a balance between comfort and the city's urban style.
- Lightweight, breathable clothes (linen is your best bet) for the outdoors
- Bring a light wrap or cardigan. It gets chilly inside malls thanks to the strong air conditioning.
- A compact umbrella or a foldable raincoat for sudden tropical showers
- A good pair of walking shoes or sandals for long strolls around the city
- Something modest for visiting religious sites like temples or mosques
- A casual-but-nice outfit for nice dinner spots or bars
Tech Essentials:
Staying connected is easy in Singapore, but it’s better when you come prepared.
- Your phone unlocked for use with an eSIM
- A power bank (a must if you’re out from morning to night)
- Universal travel adapter (Singapore uses Type G plugs)
- Apps like Grab, Klook, and Google Translate
- Earphones or AirPods for audio guides or entertainment on the go
Safety and Comfort Kit:
Singapore is one of the safest cities in the world, but that doesn’t mean you should leave comfort behind. A few simple items can keep you feeling fresh, hydrated, and headache-free.
- Reusable water bottle (tap water is clean and drinkable)
- Sunscreen (at least SPF 50) to protect you from that tropical sun
- Basic meds like paracetamol, antihistamines, and motion sickness tablets
- A pack of tissues and hand sanitizer (many locals carry both)
- A small sling bag or anti-theft backpack for daily exploring
Free Things to Do in Singapore
Watch the Spectra Light and Water Show at Marina Bay Sands
This 15-minute show is a stunning mix of lights, music, and water projections that plays nightly at the Marina Bay Sands waterfront promenade.
You’ll get a front-row seat to a free spectacle that feels like it belongs in a theme park. Best of all, you don’t need to book or queue—just show up a little early for a good spot and soak in the city skyline while you wait.
- Address: 2 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018972
- How to get there: Take the MRT to Bayfront Station (CE1/DT16), then follow signs to Marina Bay Sands and head outside to the Event Plaza
Watch the Garden Rhapsody Light Show at Gardens by the Bay
If you’ve seen pictures of glowing trees in Singapore, this is the spot. The Supertree Grove lights up every evening in sync with music, transforming the gardens into a surreal, dreamlike space.
It’s free to watch and a must-see, especially if you want something magical after dinner. Each show has a different musical theme, so it’s worth catching even if you’ve seen it before.
- Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953
- How to get there: From Bayfront MRT Station (CE1/DT16), take Exit B and walk through the underground linkway into Gardens by the Bay.
Stroll along Haji Lane
Haji Lane may be one of the narrowest streets in Singapore, but it’s packed with character.
From vibrant murals to indie boutiques and cozy cafes, the whole area feels like a hipster’s dream. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the iconic Sultan Mosque, with its golden dome and rich Islamic heritage.
Whether you're snapping photos, people-watching, or just enjoying the vibe, this neighborhood gives you a fun and artsy break from the typical tourist trail.
- Address: Haji Lane, Kampong Glam, Singapore 189214
- How to get there: Take the MRT to Bugis Station (EW12/DT14), use Exit B, and walk about 5 minutes toward Kampong Glam and the Sultan Mosque
Walk the Southern Ridges Trail
If you’re craving a nature break without leaving the city, the Southern Ridges is your answer. This 10km trail connects several parks, including Mount Faber and HortPark, with scenic bridges like the iconic Henderson Waves. You’ll get panoramic views of the harbor and city, plus lots of greenery—no entrance fees, no crowds, just fresh air and a good leg workout.
- Address: Start at Mount Faber Park, Kampong Bahru Road
- How to get there: Alight at HarbourFront MRT Station (NE1/CC29), take Exit D, and follow signs to Marang Trail, which leads to Mount Faber
Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown
Step into this beautifully designed temple and you’ll immediately feel the contrast between modern Singapore and its spiritual roots.
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is rich with ornate architecture, peaceful shrines, and cultural exhibits. It’s free to enter, and if you happen to visit during a prayer session, you’ll witness an unforgettable moment of calm and devotion in the heart of bustling Chinatown.
- Address: 288 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058840
- How to get there: Take the MRT to Chinatown Station (NE4/DT19), use Exit A, and the temple is a short 3-minute walk away
Sample 4D3N DIY Singapore Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Day 1 – Arrival, Cultural Icons & Light Shows
- Morning:
- Arrive in Singapore and check into your hotel or hostel
- Freshen up and grab a local brunch (Maxwell Food Centre is a great first taste)
- Afternoon:
- Explore Chinatown and visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple (free entry)
- Browse souvenir shops and stop for kopi or iced teh at a local café
- Evening:
- Head to Gardens by the Bay to catch the Garden Rhapsody Light Show at Supertree Grove (free)
- Walk over to the Marina Bay Sands promenade for the Spectra Light and Water Show (free)
- Enjoy dinner at Satay by the Bay or Lau Pa Sat
Day 2 – Nature, Haji Lane & Kampong Glam Vibes
- Morning:
- Start your day with a refreshing walk along the Southern Ridges Trail (free, scenic, and peaceful)
- Have a quick lunch at VivoCity or one of the nearby hawker centers
- Afternoon:
- Make your way to Haji Lane for colorful murals, indie shops, and good vibes
- Visit the Sultan Mosque, one of Singapore’s most iconic religious sites
- Explore the surrounding Kampong Glam area
- Evening:
- Return to Bugis or Orchard for shopping or dinner
- Optional: chill at Clarke Quay or wind down at your accommodation
Day 3 – Little India, Local Eats & Last-Minute Shopping
- Morning:
- Head to Little India and start your day at Tekka Centre for local breakfast
- Visit the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and wander around Serangoon Road
- Check out street art, spice shops, and sari stores
- Afternoon:
- MRT to Orchard Road for aircon and shopping (ION Orchard, TANGS, and more)
- Stop by Lucky Plaza if you want Filipino snacks or gifts
- Evening:
- Explore Haji Lane again if you missed it or catch live music nearby
- Dinner at a hawker center or try a halal spot in Kampong Glam
Day 4 – Jewel Changi & Departure
- Morning:
- Check out of your hotel and head early to Changi Airport
- Spend your last few hours at Jewel Changi’s Rain Vortex and Shiseido Forest Valley (both free)
- Optional: explore the Canopy Park or grab last-minute souvenirs
- Afternoon:
- Lunch at Jewel’s food court or a café
- Departure and goodbye for now, lah!
Must-Try Singaporean Food for Pinoys
Iconic hawker dishes you’ll love
Singapore’s food scene is one big multicultural buffet, and the best part?
You’ll find flavors from Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan heritage all in one place.
If you're trying hawker food for the first time, go for Hainanese chicken rice—it’s savory, simple, and comforting. Laksa, with its rich coconut curry broth and springy noodles, is another must-try.
Craving something smoky and stir-fried? Char kway teow checks all the boxes.
You should also try nasi lemak, a Malay favorite with fragrant rice, crispy anchovies, and spicy sambal.
For dessert, go for chendol or ice kacang, especially if you need to cool down from the heat.
Where to eat affordably: Top hawker centres
You won’t have to search far to eat well on a budget. These hawker centers offer quality food at wallet-friendly prices, often under SGD 6 per meal.
- Maxwell Food Centre – Famous for chicken rice and close to Chinatown
- Lau Pa Sat – Historic setting with satay stalls that open in the evening
- Newton Food Centre – Great seafood and featured in the movie "Crazy Rich Asians"
- Old Airport Road Food Centre – Well-loved by locals for traditional eats
- Tekka Centre – An excellent stop for Indian and Malay dishes
- Amoy Street Food Centre – Conveniently located in the CBD with lots of lunch options
Halal-friendly and vegetarian options
- Zam Zam Restaurant (Kampong Glam) – Legendary for murtabak and biryani
- Hajah Maimunah (Jalan Pisang) – Popular for kampong-style Malay dishes
- Singapore Zam Zam (opposite Sultan Mosque) – Classic halal fare in a heritage location
- Annalakshmi Restaurant (Clarke Quay) – Vegetarian Indian food served buffet-style, pay-what-you-want
- Komala Vilas (Little India) – Well-known for its affordable, flavorful South Indian vegetarian meals
- Vege Pot (Fortune Centre) – Vegetarian and vegan-friendly Taiwanese-style dishes in a casual setting
Your Singapore Adventure Starts Now!
So there you have it! Your complete, DIY-friendly guide to exploring Singapore like a pro.
From must-see sights to hawker meals and free shows, you’ve got everything you need to make your 4D3N trip sulit from start to finish.
One last tip: don’t fly in blind. Staying connected from the moment you land makes a huge difference, especially when you're navigating MRT routes or sharing your adventures online.
That’s where Airalo’s Singapore eSIM comes in handy. It’s convenient, affordable, and Pinoy-traveler approved.
Here’s why I always recommend it to first-time visitors:
- Unlimited data for just SGD 5.78 a day
- Instant activation before landing
- No SIM swapping needed
- Use maps, Grab, and apps right away
- Chat with family anytime
- Post stories and photos on the go
- Easy top-ups online
Go ahead and book that trip. Singapore’s waiting, and now you’re ready for it.
