Exploring Singapore on a 10-Hour Layover: A Reflection on the Free Heritage Tour
If you’ve ever spotted Singapore on travel shows or in glossy magazines, you might see it as a stunning but distant destination. Unfortunately, because of its location, it’s a place that is often overlooked on many travel lists or bucket lists. That’s how I felt about Singapore.
But, when I found myself facing a 10-and-a-half-hour layover on my way to Perth, Australia, I figured it was the perfect opportunity to explore this city / country more closely. Little did I know, it would leave me wanting more.
Where Is Singapore?
Singapore is a small yet vibrant city-state located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, just off the coast of Malaysia. It is one of the world’s leading global cities and a hub for finance, trade, and tourism. Though small in size (just about 278 square miles), Singapore is packed with cultural diversity, modern architecture, and green spaces, making it a fascinating place to visit.
How to Get There
Singapore’s Changi Airport is one of the busiest and best-connected airports in the world, and it’s extremely convenient for layovers. Flights from around the world pass through this international hub, making it easy to reach from practically anywhere. Whether you’re flying from the United States, Canada, Europe, or Asia, you’ll find multiple direct flights. If you find yourself with a long layover (5.5 hours or more), you’ll be in luck, as Changi offers free city tours to help make the most of your time in Singapore.
The Free Heritage Tour
When I first found out about the free city tours at Singapore Changi Airport, I was both surprised and excited. After some quick research, I learned there are three different tours offered, ranging from a 2.5-hour cultural exploration to a 3-hour scenic tour. Since my layover was just over 10 hours, I decided to join the Heritage Tour, which would give me a deeper dive into Singapore’s history and cultural landmarks.
Booking the tour was easy—after confirming my reservation online, I received clear instructions on where to check in when I arrived at the airport. Upon landing at Changi, I quickly found the tour desk and was all set after a quick check-in process. We were a diverse group, around 35 travelers from all corners of the globe, all eager to explore Singapore despite the limited time.
Discovering the City
Our first stop was Chinatown, and I was immediately struck by how much life buzzes through these narrow streets. Singapore’s population is primarily Chinese (about 74%), followed by Malays, Indians, and others. Chinatown’s historical architecture stood in stark contrast to the modern skyline I had glimpsed from the airport. Pre-war shop houses sat next to majestic temples and pagodas, and street murals depicted life from days gone by. It felt like stepping back in time, yet there was a palpable sense of modern life and energy.
One of my favorite moments was witnessing the local community gathered around a sheltered area, playing board games, laughing, and enjoying tea together. The connection between people and the joy of simply being together struck me. It was a beautiful reminder of how culture thrives in everyday spaces.
Next, we headed to the Kampong Gelam District, an area where Malay-Arab influences still dominate. The Sultan Mosque, with its gleaming golden domes, was a sight to behold, and the surrounding streets offered a fascinating mix of Middle Eastern shops, restaurants, and fabric stores. Despite our short 30-minute stop, I was captivated by the area’s unique blend of old-world charm and modern, hip vibes.
As our tour wrapped up, we made a quick visit to Jewel, a colossal shopping and entertainment complex inside the airport compound. It houses the world’s largest indoor waterfall, which stands at an impressive five stories high. As rain poured outside, the lush indoor gardens and waterfall offered a peaceful escape, the perfect way to end my brief exploration of the city.
It should be noted that Jewel is NOT inside the terminal. If you arrive and want to visit, you will need to exit and pass through immigration.
Top Travel Tips for Singapore
If you’re planning a trip or layover in Singapore, here are a few tips to make the most of your visit:
Use Public Transportation: Singapore has an incredibly efficient public transport system, including an excellent MRT (subway) network. It’s easy to get around and a cost-effective way to explore the city.
Pack Light and Be Prepared for Weather: The weather can be unpredictable, so always carry an umbrella or rain poncho. Singapore’s tropical climate means rain showers can come and go quickly.
Plan Your Layover Wisely: If you’re lucky enough to have a long layover at Changi, make sure to take advantage of the free city tours. You can explore the city without the hassle of additional transportation.
Don’t Miss the Jewel: Whether you’re passing through the airport or not, the Jewel shopping complex is worth a visit. With the indoor waterfall and lush gardens, it’s a stunning place to relax before your next flight.
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on my brief time in Singapore, I’m so glad I took the opportunity to explore the city during my layover. The Heritage Tour not only gave me a taste of Singapore’s rich cultural tapestry but also revealed how seamlessly the old and new coexist here. The tour was well-organized, informative, and gave me an unforgettable glimpse into this vibrant city.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, you’ll quickly fall in love with the city’s charm, diversity, and energy. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best travel experiences can happen when you least expect them.
You might also be interested in visiting Hong Hong as a layover city.
Or if you need a reason to visit Australia, these posts might be of value.
Sometimes all you need is a layover to explore a new city - glad you took the opportunity :)
I Love Singapore!! So much to do there -- and such a neat place, and GREAT food!