▲Singapore's skyscrapers afford spectacular views across the city. Many are topped with cafés and restaurants, places like CÉ LA VI. This is where you can elevate your spirits while downing a cocktail or two.

▲The Singapore skyline at dusk viewed from the park's Bay East Garden.

▲The Sri Mariamman Hindu Temple is Singapore's oldest Hindu temple, and one of its most decorative. Set rather incongruously in the Chinatown district, the temple displays vivid sculptures of Hindu deities.

▲A Buddhist temple and museum complex located in the Chinatown district, this extraordinary building serves as a cultural venue and restaurant facility: simple vegetarian fare is served in the basement of the temple.

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Have you ever seen an infinity pool as cool as this? Set on the roof of the luxury Marina Bay Sands Hotel, this is where to chill out above Singapore's urban sprawl. And what better way to wrap up the day?

▲Markets abound in this cosmopolitan hub, but Lau Pa Sat is quite exceptional. Dating back to 1824, this is one of the most famous cooked food courts (known as hawker centers) in the region.

▲The giant observation wheel known as the Singapore Flyer was once the world's tallest Ferris wheel. It's still a breathtaking experience, its 360-degree views a memorable visual feast.

▲A vibrant Middle East flavor permeates this Far East shopping district. Singapore's historic Kampong Glam neighborhood is centered around the gold-domed Masjid Sultan mosque.

▲The world's largest public collection of Singaporean and Southeast Asian art is housed in this superb gallery, itself composed of two national monuments, the former Supreme Court Building and City Hall.

▲For animated nightlife head to Clarke Quay. The riverfront is lined with restaurants and nightclubs, plus it includes the amazing G-Max reverse bungee jump attraction. The quay is also the embarkation point for river sightseeing cruises.

▲Singapore is renowned for its delicious street food and international gastronomy (there are currently 44 Michelin-starred restaurants in the island city-state). But the meal everyone should try is the national dish, Hainanese chicken rice—poached chicken and seasoned rice, served with chili sauce and cucumber garnish.

▲An undoubted highlight of any visit to Singapore is the amazing Gardens by the Bay nature park.

▲If your plastic is melting a hole in your pocket, burn it up in Orchard Road. This is Singapore's beating retail heart, lined with anything from original Chinese emporiums to modern megamalls wrapped in steel and glass.

▲It makes sense to start the day proper with a traditional Singaporean breakfast. Head to Katon neighborhood and fill up with kaya (coconut egg jam), toast, and soft-boiled eggs, paired with a cup of steaming hot kopi (coffee).

▲Its form resembling an open lotus flower, the exterior of this museum is as striking as the collections housed within, set in three themed galleries—Curiosity, Inspiration, and Expression.

▲It's always worth checking the cultural agenda at this futuristic performing arts center located in Marina Bay, near the mouth of the Singapore River.

▲Set in a rain forest environment where animals thrive in expansive and landscaped enclosures designed to mimic their natural habitats, this world-class zoo is best explored on a guided tour tram ride.

▲For a taste of historical Singapore, explore the city's Joo Chiat road district with its beautifully preserved and colorful Peranakan heritage buildings.

▲If your pockets aren't deep enough for a stay at Raffles, at least order a Singapore Sling in the hotel's famous Long Bar.

▲Housed in a soaring greenhouse, the park's extraordinary Cloud Forest replicates conditions found in tropical mountain regions.

▲You could spend all day exploring Singapore's iconic Marina Bay complex. But first take a sightseeing cruise and get a memorable view from the water.

▲Changi Airport is a destination within itself. Before leaving the terminal, be sure to browse the fabulous Rain Vortex at the Jewel Changi complex.

▲If your budget stretches to a stopover in one of the world's most celebrated hotels, then go ahead and book a suite. The colonial-style Raffles has previously hosted the likes of Noel Coward, Rudyard Kipling, Joseph Conrad, and Charlie Chaplin, among other legendary celebrities.

▲The park consists of three waterfront gardens, each with its own unique environmental and architectural features. Pictured is the iconic Supertree Grove.

▲If you skipped Gardens by the Bay during the day, arrive after dark for a jaw-dropping light show at the Supertree Grove.

▲As night falls over Singapore, the island city-state takes on a totally different complexion.

▲Let your friends know you've arrived! Get your picture taken next to the landmark Merlion (half lion, half fish), which is the symbol of the nation.

▲Admire the Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall. The oldest part of the building dates back to 1862.

▲Saunter down Serangoon Road for an ethnic buzz full of color and vitality. Besides the cultural attractions, there's some genuine bargain shopping to be had here.

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Singapore is one of the world's most glamorous and exciting destinations. It's also an important travel hub, with Changi Airport serving many leading airlines. But what do you if your flight plans require a stopover in this vibrant island city-state? How do you spend the free time you have in the most productive and rewarding manner?

Browse the gallery for some fantastic ideas on how to enjoy your own Singapore fling.