Take a direct morning flight (approx 4.5–5 hrs) so you arrive in Singapore around midday and get a full first afternoon in the city. Book refundable or flexible fares for December peak season.
Immigration and transfer by MRT or taxi to central Singapore (Marina Bay / Downtown recommended). MRT (Changi Airport to City ~30–40 min). Check into hotel and freshen up.
Classic hawker lunch to taste Singapore's famous chicken rice and other local dishes; Maxwell is open midday (roughly 11am–9pm) and offers authentic, affordable options.
Scenic stroll along the waterfront to see the Merlion, Esplanade, and the Marina Bay Sands complex; great for photos and to orient yourself to the city's main sights (outdoor & free).
Visit the Outdoor Gardens (open early morning–late night) and the two conservatories (Flower Dome & Cloud Forest usually open ~9:00am–9:00pm) — book conservatory tickets in advance; don't miss the Supertree Grove light show in the evening (usually ~7:45pm & 8:45pm).
If you have energy, head up to the SkyPark for a night skyline view (often open until ~10pm; confirm hours) — otherwise rest and prepare for Sentosa tomorrow.
Choose S.E.A. Aquarium (typically 10:00am–7:00pm) to see large marine displays or Adventure Cove for water attractions; both are in Resorts World Sentosa and excellent for families.
Beachfront dining option: Coastes for casual pizza/seafood or Tanjong Beach Club for a more upscale beach-club vibe (check reservation requirements for Dec weekends).
If you prefer a show, catch 'Wings of Time' on Sentosa (outdoor multimedia show around 7:40pm/8:40pm; times vary). Otherwise head back to hotel and rest.
Enjoy South Indian vegetarian breakfast (dosa, idli, filter coffee) at Komala Vilas or try local Indian breakfasts in Tekka Centre; both are typically open from early morning.
Walk the colorful streets, visit the temple (opening hours vary but early morning visits are common) and browse local shops selling spices, textiles and jewelry.
Head to Kampong Glam to see the Sultan Mosque (outside viewing and restricted visiting times for non-worshippers at certain hours) and the boutique shops and murals of Haji Lane. Many shops open by 11:00am.
Spend the afternoon on Orchard Road (shops typically open 10:00am–10:00pm) for malls, designer stores and local brands; ION Sky observation deck offers a city view if you want a short panorama.
Evening river cruise (boat tours typically run 7:30pm–10pm with departures every 15–30 mins) for city lights, then eat at Clarke Quay where restaurants like Jumbo Seafood offer chilli crab (open until late).
Grab a quick breakfast and head to Changi Point to catch the bumboat to Pulau Ubin — boats operate from early morning (often ~6:00am) until late afternoon depending on demand; schedule can vary so go early.
Rent a bike and explore rustic Pulau Ubin, including Chek Jawa tidal boardwalk (best at low tide for marine life). Bike rental is inexpensive and the island is a contrast to central Singapore.
Head back to Changi Airport to see Jewel's Shiseido Forest Valley and the Rain Vortex light show; Jewel is open widely (check exact hours) and is a nice relaxed afternoon with cafes and shops.
If you prefer history, visit the Changi Chapel & Museum (check seasonal closures) or take a coastal walk along the Changi Boardwalk (outdoor public space).
Return toward the city/east for an iconic Singapore hawker seafood dinner at East Coast Lagoon Food Village (open evenings; try sambal stingray or chilli crab).
Spend the morning at the National Gallery (art collections; typically 10:00am–7:00pm) or ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay (often 10:00am–7:00pm) — pick based on interest and ticket availability.
Head back to your hotel, check out and take the MRT or taxi to Changi Airport; allow 2–3 hours before international departure for check-in and immigration.