7 international holidays that are better with a stop in Singapore

Ready to broaden your horizons and explore new and unexpected destinations? The travel possibilities are endless with Singapore Airlines.

Few things rival the excitement of planning your next holiday. Whether you want to soak up Milan’s fashion scene, explore Gaudí architecture in Barcelona or experience Hong Kong’s surprising natural beauty, Singapore Airlines can get you there.

Flying with Singapore Airlines

With regular flights to over 30 countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, North America and the Southwest Pacific, Singapore Airlines seamlessly connects you with the rest of the world, in comfort.

Known as the “world’s most awarded airline”, the carrier prides itself on world-class hospitality and premium customer experience. Take advantage of in-flight entertainment and connect to complimentary in-flight wi-fi while enjoying fantastic meals – the menu was tested under simulated cabin conditions to ensure it’s tasty at altitude.

A Singapore stop

Kickstart the holiday with a stop at Singapore’s award-winning Changi Airport. Visit the Butterfly Garden, explore the whimsical Dreamscape, or delight in over 150 dining options at the food court. Extend your stay to experience local icons before heading to your next destination. Spend time at Gardens By The Bay, shop on Orchard Road and wander Singapore Zoo.

Start your holiday right with a Singapore stop.

Barcelona

Barcelona is home to some of Europe’s most unique architecture, thanks to Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí. The most famous of his buildings is the unfinished Sagrada Familia, but the city is also packed with other Gaudí works, including residential buildings and colourful Park Güell.

Take a stroll down Las Ramblas and see some of Barcelona’s most historic sights, including the Columbus Monument and Gran Liceu Theatre. Round off the day with a visit to La Boqueria, Barcelona’s much-loved marketplace, where you’ll find fresh food, flowers, cafes, and restaurants serving local classics like paella.

If you mainly know Barcelona as the home of one of Europe’s premier soccer teams, don’t miss an opportunity to tour Camp Nou, home of FC Barcelona, and its museum. You could even get excited on the trip over by watching a live soccer match on Singapore Airlines’ in-flight entertainment.

Experience the magic of Barcelona’s architecture. (Image: Ferrantraite)

Milan

Breathtaking architecture, luxury fashion, and delicious food: Milan has got it all. Visit the awe-inspiring Duomo di Milano, where you can either explore the terraces yourself or learn about the cathedral’s history with a guided tour. Afterwards, head around the corner to Luini for sweet or savoury panzerotti, a locally loved pastry.

The city is known as one of the fashion capitals of the world and is home to Milan Fashion Week. It’s no wonder, then, that it has its very own fashion district, the Quadrilatero della Moda, which is worth taking a stroll through just for its expertly crafted shop windows.

Use Singapore Airlines’ complimentary in-flight WiFi to brush up on your Italian and you’ll be saying buon appetito to delicious gelato in no time.

Admire the stunning Duomo di Milano. (Image: Getty/JaCZhou)

Hong Kong

While Hong Kong might conjure up images of neon lights, towering skyscrapers and people-filled streets, it’s also home to unparalleled natural beauty. A walk along one of the city’s hundreds of hiking paths is the perfect way to take in the scenery and leave the hustle and bustle behind.

At sundown, take the iconic Star Ferry and watch A Symphony of Lights illuminate Victoria Harbour, then stroll down Temple Street for a taste of Hong Kong’s nightlife and the local cuisine. For high-end retail therapy, head to The Landmark at Central or visit The Mills and explore the local boutiques.

Get a taste of local cuisine on your Singapore Airlines flight over, and enjoy local culture with a range of Hong Kong’s most popular films on the in-flight movie list.

Sail across Victoria Harbour on the iconic Star Ferry at sunset. (Image: Getty/Nikada)

Beijing

Beijing isn’t just China’s capital – it’s also home to some of its most significant national treasures. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Summer Palace for a sprawling mix of natural beauty and classic architecture, or explore the Great Wall of China and over 20 of its watchtowers at Mutianyu.

For a taste of the local cuisine, visit hot pot chain Haidilao, or enjoy stunning views of the city, including the historic Forbidden City, from Atmosphere on the 80th floor of the China World Summit Wing.

Explore the heart of China’s past. (Image: _drz_)

Colombo

Power your Colombo adventure with Sri Lanka’s national street food, kottu roti, which you can buy at many of the city’s street vendors. For a heartier meal, visit Ministry of Crab, which takes full advantage of the city’s proximity to the sea by serving local Sri Lankan mud crab in a multitude of ways.

After dinner, explore the local nightlife at bars like ColomBar, where you can sample arrack, a Sri Lankan liquor experiencing a resurgence in popularity.

Colombo highlights include Gangaramaya Temple, a 19th-century Buddhist place of worship, a promenade along Galle Face Green, and a visit to the National Museum to gain a better understanding of Sri Lanka’s culture, people and history.

Get in the mood for Colombo cuisine with Singapore Airlines’ in-flight menu featuring inspired curries.   

Visit the historic Gangaramaya Temple. (Image: Zoshua Colah)

Manila

Food lovers rejoice! There’s no shortage of delectable fare in the Philippines’ capital, Manila. Try local favourites like pork adobo, which you can get almost everywhere, or savour Spanish-Filipino fusion at Terry’s Bistro.

Fuel your exploration of Manila’s nightlife with cocktails at Big Fuzz, Blind Pig and The Curator, or soak up the spectacular city views from Dr Wine Rooftop.

During the day, visit Intramuros, the historic Walled City of Manila, where Spanish colonial architecture has been preserved, or visit Ayala Museum to discover Philippine art and cultural artefacts.

To experience authentic Chinese-Philippine culture, visit Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown.

Walk the cobblestone streets and discover centuries of history. (Image: Getty/Jui Chi-Chan)

Your holiday begins at take-off – including world-class in-flight service, meals and entertainment  –  with Singapore Airlines. Visit singaporeair.com.