If you’re considering your first solo adventure in Asia—or you’re a seasoned solo traveler looking for your next destination—let me tell you why Singapore should be at the top of your list. This island nation isn’t just safe, clean, and efficient (though it’s definitely all of those things). It’s a gateway to understanding Asian culture, a culinary paradise, and honestly, one of the most confidence-building destinations you could choose for solo female travel.
Why Singapore Is Perfect for Solo Female Travelers
Here’s the thing about Singapore: it manages to be both thrillingly exotic and comfortingly familiar. You’ll find yourself navigating between gleaming skyscrapers and traditional shophouses, between hawker centers serving authentic laksa and rooftop bars with panoramic views. And you’ll do it all feeling completely safe.
Singapore consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in the world, and as a woman who’s traveled solo across multiple continents, I can confirm it lives up to the reputation. I walked alone at midnight through various neighborhoods, took late-night taxis, and explored quiet streets in Little India—never once did I feel unsafe. The city has incredibly low crime rates, well-lit streets, and a culture that respects personal space.
But safety is just the beginning. Singapore offers something equally important for solo travelers: ease. The MRT system is color-coded, spotlessly clean, and operates in English. Signs are in English everywhere. People are helpful without being intrusive. You can focus on experiencing the destination rather than wrestling with logistics.
Getting Started: Planning Your Singapore Solo Adventure
Best Time to Visit
Singapore’s tropical climate means it’s warm year-round, but timing still matters. I visited during August, which falls in the drier season (February to April, and June to September), and had mostly sunny days perfect for exploring. The trade-off? It’s hot—we’re talking 30°C (86°F) with humidity that’ll make you grateful for the city’s countless air-conditioned malls.
If you’re budget-conscious, avoid peak season (December to January and June to August when school holidays drive up prices). The shoulder months of May and September offer better deals on accommodation while still delivering decent weather.
Budgeting for Your Trip
Let’s talk money, because Singapore has a reputation for being expensive—and while it’s not wrong, it’s not the whole story either. Yes, accommodation and alcohol are pricey, but you can absolutely visit Singapore on a reasonable budget with smart planning.
Here’s what I spent daily as a solo traveler on a mid-range budget:
Accommodation: $40-70 USD per night for a clean, centrally-located hostel private room or budget hotel. I stayed in a boutique hostel in Chinatown with a private ensuite for $55 per night—perfect for solo female travelers who want privacy without hotel prices.
Food: $15-30 USD daily. This is where Singapore shines for budget travelers. Hawker centers became my best friends, serving incredible meals for $3-5 USD. Save the fancy restaurants for one or two special dinners.
Transportation: $10-15 USD daily. Get an EZ-Link card (a rechargeable transport card) at any MRT station for seamless travel. The entire city is connected by trains and buses.
Activities: Many of Singapore’s best experiences are free or cheap. Walking through ethnic neighborhoods, visiting the Botanic Gardens, and catching the Garden Rhapsody light show cost nothing.
Pro budget tip: Download the Grab app (Southeast Asia’s version of Uber). It’s affordable for occasional trips and especially handy when you’re tired or carrying shopping bags. According to Lonely Planet, using a combination of public transport and strategic Grab rides keeps costs manageable while maximizing comfort.
Where to Stay: Best Neighborhoods for Solo Female Travelers
Choosing the right neighborhood made a huge difference in my Singapore experience. Here are my top picks for solo female travelers:
Chinatown
This is where I based myself, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat. Chinatown perfectly balances authentic atmosphere with modern amenities. You’re walking distance to hawker centers, temples, trendy cafes, and the MRT. The hostel scene here is fantastic—social enough to meet fellow travelers, but not party-focused.
I stayed at a women-only dorm initially (great for meeting other solo female travelers) before moving to a private room. The neighborhood feels safe to walk at night, and you’re central to everything.
Little India
If you want more vibrant energy and incredible food, Little India is your spot. It’s one of Singapore’s most colorful neighborhoods, with stunning temples, textile shops, and some of the best curry you’ll eat in your life. The area has a strong backpacker presence and several female-friendly hostels.
Kampong Glam
This historic Malay-Muslim quarter is having a moment. Think hip cafes, boutique shopping, street art, and the stunning Sultan Mosque. It’s slightly quieter than Chinatown but equally safe and accessible. I loved the creative vibe here—perfect if you’re into photography or Instagram-worthy travel outfits.
What About Other Areas?
Marina Bay is gorgeous but touristy and expensive. Orchard Road puts you in shopping heaven but lacks authentic character. Clarke Quay is fun for nightlife but can be noisy. For solo female travelers, ethnic neighborhoods offer better value, safety, and cultural immersion.
Essential Safety Tips (That Actually Matter)
Singapore is remarkably safe, but smart travel habits still apply:
Trust the excellent public transport: The MRT runs until midnight (later on weekends), and night buses cover the gaps. I never felt unsafe on public transport at any hour.
Be mindful of local laws: Singapore’s laws are strict. Don’t litter, don’t chew gum in public, don’t jaywalk. These aren’t just suggestions—they’re enforced with fines. Respect the rules, and you’ll be fine.
Dress respectfully at religious sites: When visiting temples and mosques, cover your shoulders and knees. I kept a light scarf in my day bag for this purpose—it doubled as airplane blanket and sun protection too.
Solo dining is completely normal: Don’t hesitate to eat alone anywhere. Singaporeans dine solo frequently, and you’ll see many locals and travelers eating by themselves at hawker centers and restaurants. Nobody bats an eye.
Share your plans: I used WhatsApp to check in with family daily. Singapore has excellent WiFi everywhere (including free public WiFi at most MRT stations), making it easy to stay connected.
Navigating Singapore Like a Pro
Mastering the MRT
Singapore’s Mass Rapid Transit system is your best friend. It’s clean, efficient, affordable, and connects all major attractions. Here’s what I learned:
Download the MyTransport app for real-time updates and route planning. Buy an EZ-Link card instead of single-journey tickets—you’ll save money and time. Stand on the left side of escalators (walk on the right). Don’t eat or drink on trains (seriously, there are cameras).
The MRT can get crowded during rush hours (7-9am and 5-7pm), but even packed trains feel safe. I never experienced any uncomfortable situations or inappropriate behavior.
Getting Around Beyond the MRT
Buses: Singapore’s bus system is extensive and cheap. Google Maps works perfectly for planning routes. Buses are clean and air-conditioned—a blessing in the heat.
Walking: Many neighborhoods are incredibly walkable. I spent entire days exploring on foot, discovering hidden cafes and photo spots. Wear comfortable shoes—the heat and humidity make walking more exhausting than usual.
Grab: For early mornings, late nights, or when you’re exhausted, Grab is affordable and safe. The app shows driver details and license plates, and you can share your trip with emergency contacts.
Cultural Experiences You Can’t Miss
Explore the Ethnic Neighborhoods
Singapore’s diversity is its soul, and the ethnic quarters showcase this beautifully. I spent a full day in Little India, starting with breakfast at a banana leaf restaurant (where I learned to eat with my right hand, following local custom), wandering through the colorful shops on Serangoon Road, and visiting the ornate Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple.
Chinatown revealed different treasures: the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple with its stunning architecture, traditional medicine shops selling everything from ginseng to bird’s nest, and more dumplings than I could possibly eat. Don’t miss the Chinatown Heritage Centre—a fascinating museum that tells the story of early Chinese immigrants.
Kampong Glam captivated me with Sultan Mosque’s golden domes and the hipster cafes along Haji Lane. I spent an afternoon here, enjoying iced coffee in quirky cafes and browsing boutiques selling everything from traditional textiles to contemporary art.
Hawker Center Adventures
This deserves its own section because hawker centers are where Singapore’s soul lives. These open-air food courts serve incredible, authentic food at unbeatable prices. As a solo female traveler, hawker centers became my dining room.
My strategy: Visit during off-peak hours (2-5pm) when crowds thin out and you can snag a table easily. Order from multiple stalls—portions are small enough that you can try several dishes. Don’t be intimidated by the local ordering system; vendors are patient and helpful.
Maxwell Food Centre in Chinatown became my regular spot. I’d order Hainanese chicken rice from Tian Tian Chicken Rice (yes, the famous one with the queue), then grab sweet soy milk from another stall. Total cost? Under $5 USD.
The Michelin Guide has even awarded stars to hawker stalls, proving that incredible food doesn’t require white tablecloths.
Other must-visit hawker centers: Lau Pa Sat (beautiful Victorian architecture), Old Airport Road Food Centre (local favorite), and Newton Food Centre (touristy but fun for seafood).
Solo Traveler-Friendly Activities
Gardens by the Bay
The Supertree Grove is free to explore, and the evening Garden Rhapsody light show (7:45pm and 8:45pm) is magical. I went alone and found myself surrounded by couples, families, and other solo travelers—all equally mesmerized. The Cloud Forest and Flower Dome require paid tickets ($28 SGD for both), and they’re worth it if you love nature and architecture.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
This UNESCO World Heritage site is completely free and perfect for solo travelers. I spent a peaceful morning here, wandering through the National Orchid Garden ($5 SGD entry), reading in quiet corners, and watching locals do tai chi. Bring a book, pack a picnic from a nearby hawker center, and enjoy.
Free Walking Tours
Several companies offer free walking tours (tip-based) of different neighborhoods. I joined one in Chinatown and learned fascinating history I’d have missed exploring alone. It’s also a great way to meet other travelers—I ended up having dinner with three women from the tour.
Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
You don’t need to stay at the hotel to enjoy the views. While the infinity pool is guest-only, the observation deck ($26 SGD) offers panoramic city views. I went at sunset and watched the city transform from day to night. Alternatively, save money and enjoy free views from rooftop bars in nearby buildings (though you’ll need to buy a drink).
Shopping and Solo Browsing
Orchard Road is shopping mecca, but I preferred the more unique boutiques in Tiong Bahru and Haji Lane. If you’re into travel outfits and need to update your wardrobe, Bugis Street market offers affordable clothing (though quality varies—inspect carefully before buying).
Connecting with Other Travelers
One of my concerns about solo traveling in Singapore was loneliness. Would I spend the entire trip talking only to myself? Here’s what I discovered:
Hostel common areas are social hubs. Even though I had a private room, I’d hang out in the common area in the evenings. I met other solo female travelers from Australia, Germany, and Japan, and we formed an impromptu dinner group.
Join tours or classes: I took a short cooking class learning to make laksa, and the small group format made conversation natural. Food tours, brewery tours, and photography walks are also great for meeting people.
Use apps: Meetup has active groups in Singapore for various interests. Couchsurfing’s hangouts feature connects travelers and locals for coffee or activities (you don’t need to actually couchsurf to use it).
But also embrace solo time: One of the best parts of solo travel is doing exactly what you want, when you want. I spent an entire afternoon in the Asian Civilisations Museum because I was genuinely fascinated—no compromising with a travel companion.
If you’re looking for more inspiration on solo adventures across the region, check out this Solo Traveler’s Guide to Southeast Asia for tips on extending your journey beyond Singapore.
Practical Packing Tips for Singapore
The Weather Reality Check
Pack light, breathable fabrics. Singapore’s humidity is no joke—you’ll sweat just walking from your hotel to the MRT. I lived in loose cotton dresses and linen pants. Forget jeans (too hot) and fancy travel outfits that don’t breathe.
Essential items:
- Lightweight daypack with water bottle holder
- Compact umbrella (for sudden rain showers and sun protection)
- Light cardigan or scarf (for overly air-conditioned spaces)
- Comfortable walking shoes that you don’t mind getting wet
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Power adapter (Type G, three-pin plug)
- Reusable water bottle (tap water is safe to drink)
Travel hairstyles that work: Singapore’s humidity will destroy any elaborate hairstyle. I embraced the high ponytail, messy bun, and braids. Bring hair ties, bobby pins, and dry shampoo for refreshing between showers.
What You Don’t Need
Singapore has every Western convenience imaginable. Forgot shampoo? There’s a 7-Eleven on every corner. Need medication? Guardian pharmacies are everywhere. The one exception: tampons and menstrual products are more expensive here, so bring your own if possible.
Day Trip Options for Extended Stays
After a few days in the city, consider these easy escapes:
Pulau Ubin: This rustic island feels like old Singapore. Rent a bike and explore jungle trails, mangroves, and quiet beaches. The ferry from Changi Point costs $3 SGD, and I felt completely safe cycling alone. Pack water and snacks—facilities are limited.
Sentosa Island: It’s touristy but fun for a beach day. Take the cable car for amazing views. I spent an afternoon at Palawan Beach, the closest “beach vacation” without leaving Singapore.
Day trip to Johor Bahru, Malaysia: If you have time, cross the border to JB for a taste of Malaysia. It’s easy via bus or train, though you’ll need to check visa requirements for your nationality.
Food Adventures for Solo Diners
Let’s dive deeper into the food scene, because this is where Singapore truly shines.
Must-Try Dishes
Hainanese Chicken Rice: Singapore’s unofficial national dish. It seems simple—poached chicken, fragrant rice, soup—but when done right, it’s transcendent. Try it at Tian Tian (Maxwell Food Centre) or Boon Tong Kee.
Laksa: Spicy, coconut-based noodle soup that’ll clear your sinuses and warm your soul. 328 Katong Laksa is legendary.
Char Kway Teow: Stir-fried rice noodles with egg, Chinese sausage, and prawns. Outram Park Fried Kway Teow is my favorite.
Satay: Skewered, grilled meat with peanut sauce. Lau Pa Sat transforms into an outdoor satay street market in the evenings.
Roti Prata: Flaky Indian flatbread perfect for breakfast. Eat it plain or with curry. The Banana Prata at Springleaf Prata Place is dessert disguised as food.
Solo Dining Etiquette
At hawker centers, it’s normal to “chope” (reserve) a table by leaving a packet of tissues on it while you order. Don’t move these tissue packets—it’s the local system.
Order at stalls, pay, take your receipt, and they’ll call you when ready (or bring it to your table). At fancier restaurants, solo diners are completely normal and you’ll receive the same service as groups.
Health and Wellness on the Road
Singapore’s healthcare is world-class, but expensive without insurance. Make sure you have travel insurance before you go. That said, I never needed medical care—the city is so clean that traveler’s stomach is rare.
Staying healthy:
- Drink plenty of water (the heat is dehydrating)
- Use sunscreen religiously (I got burned walking around despite the humidity)
- Take breaks in air-conditioned spaces to avoid heat exhaustion
- Wash hands frequently, especially before eating at hawker centers
Solo traveler wellness: The physical and mental demands of solo travel are real. I made sure to:
- Get enough sleep (fighting the temptation to pack every minute)
- Have at least one slower-paced day
- Journal in the evenings to process experiences
- FaceTime with friends and family when I needed familiar faces
Money Matters and Staying Safe
Banking and Cash
Singapore is largely cashless—hawker centers, small shops, and taxis now accept PayNow, cards, or mobile payments. I used my credit card for most purchases and only needed cash occasionally for small vendors.
ATMs are everywhere and safe to use. I withdrew larger amounts less frequently to minimize fees. Visa’s travel tools helped me find ATMs and understand exchange rates.
Notify your bank before traveling to avoid card blocks. I keep photocopies of my passport and cards separate from the originals.
Avoiding Scams
Singapore has very few scams compared to other Asian destinations, but stay alert for:
- Taxis refusing to use meters (rare, but insist or use Grab)
- Overly pushy touts in touristy areas
- Inflated prices at tourist-trap restaurants near attractions
Making the Most of Your Singapore Experience
Slow Down
Singapore is compact, and you might feel pressured to see everything. Don’t. I learned this the hard way after exhausting myself the first two days. Build in downtime. Spend an afternoon at a cafe. People-watch at a hawker center. Singapore rewards slow exploration.
Get Lost Intentionally
My best discoveries happened when I put away my phone and wandered. I found a tiny bookshop in Tiong Bahru, stumbled upon a hidden temple in Chinatown, and discovered the best kaya toast at a random coffee shop.
Talk to Locals
Singaporeans are friendly and often eager to share recommendations. I asked my hostel staff, chatted with hawker center vendors, and struck up conversations on the MRT. These interactions enriched my experience far more than any guidebook.
Document Thoughtfully
Take photos, but don’t let the camera screen become your primary experience. I tried to establish a rhythm: photograph when I first arrived somewhere, then put the phone away and just be present.
Why Singapore Matters for Solo Female Travelers
Here’s what Singapore taught me: solo female travel in Asia doesn’t have to be intimidating. Singapore serves as the perfect training ground—safe enough to build confidence, interesting enough to satisfy your wanderlust, and connected enough to easily reach other destinations.
After Singapore, I felt equipped to tackle more challenging destinations. The experience proved I could navigate a foreign city alone, make decisions independently, and trust my instincts. According to Solo Female Travelers, Singapore consistently ranks as one of the best Asian destinations for women traveling alone, and my experience absolutely confirmed this.
Your Singapore Adventure Awaits
Looking back at my Singapore solo journey, I realize it was more than just a trip—it was a transformation. I arrived nervous, uncertain if I could really do this solo travel thing. I left confident, empowered, and already planning my next adventure.
Singapore doesn’t demand anything from you except an open mind and comfortable shoes. It offers safety without boredom, culture without chaos, and community without commitment. You can be as social or as solitary as you want, as adventurous or as relaxed as you need.
So here’s my advice: book the ticket. Reserve the hostel. Download the apps. Pack the bag. Singapore is waiting, and I promise you’re more ready than you think. The city will welcome you, feed you incredible food, show you sights you’ve only dreamed about, and send you home different than when you arrived.
Solo female travel isn’t about being fearless—it’s about going anyway, despite the fear. And Singapore makes it easier than anywhere else to take that leap.
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu
Your first step could be to Singapore. The Lion City is ready for you—are you ready for the adventure?
Pack your bags, trust yourself, and discover the magic of Singapore solo. You’ve got this.
Ready to explore more of Southeast Asia solo? Singapore is just the beginning. The confidence you build here will carry you through temples in Thailand, rice terraces in Vietnam, and beaches in Indonesia. The whole region is waiting for your footprints.