Singapore Is More Than a Stopover
Singapore is easy to underestimate. It's compact, incredibly easy to get around and polished to a level few cities can match, but underneath all that efficiency is a place with far more personality than its stopover reputation suggests.
Food is one of the biggest reasons to stay. Chinese, Malay, Indian and Peranakan influences come together in a city where a memorable meal might be served at a celebrated restaurant or handed across the counter at a busy hawker centre. Move between neighbourhoods and Singapore changes again, from colourful shophouses and temples to futuristic towers, tropical gardens and streets that come alive after dark.
And for such a densely built city, nature is never far away. Tropical greenery runs through Singapore, walking trails disappear into rainforest and the waterfront is woven into much of the city. It's clean, safe and remarkably straightforward to explore, which means less time working out how to get around and more time wondering why you only planned to stay for two nights.
Singapore — Quick Facts
Flight time from Sydney
~7–8 hours (direct)
Flight time from Melbourne
~7–8 hours (direct)
Best time for cheap fares
February–March
Peak season
June, July, December
Airport
Changi Airport (SIN)
Visa required
No — Australians visa-free
Currency
Singapore Dollar (SGD $)
Top Things to Do in Singapore
Gardens by the Bay
The iconic Supertree Grove and Cloud Forest dome are like nothing else on earth. Visit at night for the light and sound show — the Flower Dome is equally spectacular by day.
Hawker Centres
Singapore's UNESCO-listed hawker culture is the city's greatest gift to visitors. Maxwell Food Centre, Lau Pa Sat and Newton Circus serve some of the world's best food for just a few dollars.
Marina Bay Sands
The landmark infinity pool, casino and SkyPark observation deck offer unparalleled views across Singapore. The attached ArtScience Museum is world-class and genuinely fascinating.
Sentosa Island
A resort island connected to the mainland with Universal Studios Singapore, beaches, cable cars, the S.E.A. Aquarium and a vibrant nightlife scene — perfect for families and couples alike.
Chinatown, Little India & Kampong Glam
Three of Singapore's most colourful heritage neighbourhoods sit side by side — each with distinct food, architecture and atmosphere. A walking tour through all three takes half a day and costs almost nothing.
Jewel Changi Airport
Even if you're just transiting, Changi's Jewel terminal is worth a visit — home to the world's tallest indoor waterfall, a forest valley and a remarkable collection of shops and restaurants.
When to Fly to Singapore
February and March are worth watching for flights to Singapore from Australia, with lower fares often lining up with some of the city's drier weather. Singapore stays warm and humid throughout the year, so there really isn't a wrong season to go. Airfares tend to climb during the June and July school holidays and around Christmas. And with Singapore sitting on major flight routes between Australia and Europe, it's also worth comparing fares that let you build a Singapore stay into a longer trip.
Singapore's Airports
SIN
Singapore Changi Airport
Consistently rated the world's best airport, Changi is 20km from the city centre. The MRT train takes about 30 minutes to the city and is cheap and extremely efficient.
Getting Around Singapore
Singapore's MRT is fast, air-conditioned and makes getting around the city remarkably easy. Pick up an EZ-Link card for tap-on, tap-off travel on trains and buses, or simply use a contactless bank card on the public transport network. Grab is widely available when you'd rather go door to door, and taxis are easy to find too. With public transport this good, there's very little reason to hire a car in Singapore.
Before You Fly
- Visa: Australian passport holders do not need a visa to visit Singapore. Entry is visa-free for up to 90 days.
- Currency: Singapore Dollars (SGD). Cards accepted almost everywhere. ATMs available throughout Changi Airport and the city.
- Laws: Singapore has strict laws — no chewing gum, heavy fines for littering and jaywalking. Respect local rules and customs.
- Travel Insurance: If you're booking separate low-cost and full-service tickets through Changi, a delay on your first flight can cause you to forfeit your onward seat completely. Get travel insurance for Singapore alongside your flight search to safeguard self-transfers and layover stays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which airlines fly from Australia to Singapore?
The main airlines include Singapore Airlines (direct from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth), Qantas (direct from Sydney and Melbourne), Jetstar (from multiple cities) and Scoot. Singapore is one of the best-connected destinations from Australia.
How long is the flight from Australia to Singapore?
From Sydney and Melbourne it's about 7–8 hours direct. From Perth it's just 4–5 hours. Singapore is one of Australia's closest international destinations, making it ideal for a long weekend or as a stopover en route to Europe.
Do Australians need a visa for Singapore?
No — Australian passport holders can enter Singapore visa-free for up to 90 days. Simply arrive with a valid Australian passport.
Is Singapore good for a stopover?
Absolutely. Singapore Airlines and Qantas both offer stopovers in Singapore on routes to Europe. Changi Airport itself is a destination — the Jewel terminal is extraordinary and the city is just 30 minutes away.
Can iFly help with Singapore hotels and tours?
Absolutely. Call 1800 242 373 during business hours and our team can help with flights, accommodation, transfers and travel insurance.