This guide to Solo Travel Singapore is full of useful information to make sure you make the most of your solo trip in Singapore. Singapore is a fascinating history, diverse culture, lively street art scene, and countless amazing museums, temples, and landmarks are just a few of the reasons why Singapore is becoming an increasingly popular destination in Asia.
As a city with many faces, Singapore is a firm favorite among travelers seeking a quick city break and an excellent pitstop for travels onwards.
Besides all its charms and unnumbered attractions, Singapore is an extremely safe solo female travel destination with a highly efficient and sprawling transit network making it a great destination for solo female travel in Asia. All in all, making it the perfect destination for solo female travelers.
Top things to do in Singapore solo
Singapore offers a wealth of exciting things to do, no matter your traveling style or interests – from bustling shopping hubs and historical landmarks to adventure parks and nature within easy reach. With so many amazing things to do in Singapore, it would take weeks, if not months, to explore them all. That said, no visit to Singapore would be complete without adding these top things to do in Singapore to your must-see list.
Explore Gardens By The Bay
Gardens by the Bay is undoubtedly one of the top attractions in Singapore, and the highlight on any Singapore itinerary.
Home to several must-see points of interest, Gardens by the Bay is a horticultural treasure trove, offering a unique glimpse into Singapore’s aims to create a greener environment. Marvel at the cityscape and complex atop the OCBC Skyway, before venturing further to the largest greenhouse in the world housing more than 400,000 species of plants. Next door, drop by the Cloud Forest where you can witness the largest indoor waterfall and wander along the sky bridges.
At night, the Garden Rhapsody enchants thousands of tourists and locals alike when the giant Avatar-like trees light up in a dazzling display of color and sound. The show runs twice daily at 7:45 pm and 8:45 pm.
Marvel at the views at Marina Bay
Singapore‘s sprawling bay area is home to several of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Start your journey by taking in the sights and sounds of this laidback area. Walk along the promenade where you’ll get the best vantage point over the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, Art Science Museum, the Singapore Flyer, and the Helix Bridge in the distance. Finally, don’t forget to take a selfie with the water spouting Merlion – Singapore’s most iconic mascot.
If you happen to be in the area at night, the Spectra of Light and Water Show is yet another firm favorite not to miss. The show is free and kicks off every night at 8:30 pm and 9:30 pm.
Hunt for Street Art
Singapore is a popular destination among street art chasers. Explore the colorful nooks and crannies of Haji Lane – an exciting little pedestrian area near one of the city’s most important religious sights, the Sultan Mosque in Kampong Glam.
Further afield, head to China Town and Little India, where countless Instagram moments await. The brightly colored House of Tan Teng Niah is the perfect place to snap a new profile pic.
Visit the Peranakan Houses
A 40-minute bus ride east of the city brings you to one of Singapore‘s most famous and oldest one neighborhoods – Katong. Once home to a thriving coconut trade, today, Katong is better known for its vibrant streets and Instagram-worthy Peranakan houses. For a fascinating look into the detailed motifs and ornate facades, don’t miss visiting these pastel-colored houses. Keep in mind, though, this is a residential area, so remember to be respectful of your visiting.
Snack your way through the hawker stands
Singapore has a diverse gastronomical food scene, influenced by several different cultures.
The best place to sample some of the fantastic food on offer in Singapore is undeniably at hawker stands. Moreover, with several Michelin Star-awarded hawker stalls based in Singapore, trying some try of the city’s best food at dirt cheap prices couldn’t be easier.
You can find the hawker stands scattered all over town, and prices are very reasonable compared to other eateries and restaurants in Singapore. Some of the must-try food courts include Lau Pa Sat, Maxwell Food Court, and Chinatown Food Street.
Sip on a Singapore Sling
No visit to Singapore would be complete without trying the classic Singapore Sling. Although you can find this boozy cocktail nearly everywhere in Singapore, the best place to sip this nostalgic drink is at the lavish Raffles Hotel – the birthplace of the Singapore Sling. No reservations are required.
Take a River Cruise
Get a close up look and an utterly unique vantage point over some of Singapore‘s most remarkable architectural feats and highlights on a river cruise.
Boats frequently run from the human-made Clarke Quay and is an exciting way to while away an afternoon in the city. Some of the top sights you’ll see along the way include Raffles Landing Site, The Merlion, The Esplanade, Marina Bay Sands Park, The Fullerton Hotel, and much, much more.
Visit Sentosa Island
Travelers seeking a slice of paradise not too far from the city center, shouldn’t miss dropping by Sentosa Island. With a fascinating history dating back to the British occupation, Sentosa surprisingly once served as a military base and a Japanese prisoner-of-war camp. Today, however, the area is revered as a popular tourist resort with tons of fun attractions. Whether you prefer relaxing at the dreamy 2km beach or getting your thrills on at the Universal Studios Singapore theme park, there’s plenty to keep you busy.
Singapore Nightlife
Singapore has a booming nightlife scene and its relatively easy to enjoy a night out in town even if you are traveling alone. Whether you fancy clubbing, chilling out at a hipster bar or eating your way through the lively hawker stands, there’s so much to do in Singapore at night.
When the sun sets, head to the trendy Ce La Vi for sundowners. Located atop the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, the bar offers an unforgettable view of the city’s skyline. Although it will probably be the most expensive sundowner you ever have, the sweeping views and vibe are more than enough reward.
Afterward, hit the streets of China Town where you’ll find the roads teeming with locals and tourists alike. Besides sampling some of the fantastic food on offer, shop for trinkets, and take in the bustling vibe. Nearby, head to Ann Siang Hill – a hip neighborhood with some of the best and trendiest bars in town.
How to get from the airport to Singapore
Situated at the eastern end of the city, Changi International Airport is the main gateway to Singapore. There are several means of transport to get directly from the airport to the city, such as public bus, private airport transfer, shuttle bus, MRT, or taxi. Of course, you could also rent a car if you feel comfortable driving here.
Taxis run 24/7 from Changi Airport and take about 20 minutes to reach the center of town while shuttle buses and the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) get you to the heart of the city in roughly 30 minutes. Public buses run frequently and are perhaps the cheapest mode of transport, but do take much longer.
Tip: For a stress-free trip, consider buying an Ez-link card or a Singapore Tourist Pass. With the Ez-Link card, you can tap-and-go on all transport modes. Top it up at any MRT station.
Getting around Singapore
Getting around in Singapore couldn’t be easier. You can reach just about anywhere on the island by city bus or MRT.
Make sure you have an Ez-link card to save cost and the headache of bothering with small change. Also, be sure to download the go there, SG app to check schedules and plan your stops in real-time.
Grab Taxi is yet another way to zip around the city, albeit slightly more expensive.
Best places to stay in Singapore
Singapore is a sprawling city with plenty of excellent accommodation options for solo travelers. You should, however, know that traveling in Singapore is very expensive, especially if you are traveling alone. Use these Singapore budget tips to help you stretch your dollars while visiting Singapore.
Budget accommodation in Singapore: If you are traveling on a tight budget, opt to stay in China Town or Little India, where you’ll find countless hostels and boutique hotels offering excellent value for money.
Mid-range accommodation in Singapore: Solo travelers still on a budget, but looking for something a bit more upscale, while still having easy access to the city’s top sights, might want to consider staying in Kallang or Bugis.
Luxury accommodation in Singapore: If you’re looking to treat yourself, staying near Marina Bay or the Quays are both excellent options. The Marina Bay Sands is by far the poshest hotel in Singapore, but expect overly steep prices.
Safety tips for solo travelers in Singapore
Singapore is a city of strict rules and stringent law enforcement. Therefore, exploring Singapore is exceptionally safe. As a solo female traveler to Singapore, feel free to walk around at night. Traveling by bus or subway is also extremely reliable during the night. However, as a rule of thumb, use the same common sense and caution you would elsewhere in this beautiful world.
Final Thoughts
Singapore is a fascinating city with plenty to do, see, and love. While most visitors rush through Singapore rather quickly on a layover, stay at least three days to sample all of the city’s best bits.
Author Bio
Mariza has been living in Taiwan for nearly a decade. When she’s not juggling work, you can find her binge-watching the news, sipping on lattes, or fiercely mapping out her next adventure. Mariza shares handy travel tips and in-depth destination guides on her blog, Hoponworld, to help wanderers travel better and easier in Taiwan, Asia, and beyond.
