About Singapore
The modern metropolis of Singapore is one of the most culturally diverse destinations in the world. Lying just off the tip of Peninsular Malaysia in Southeast Asia, the city-state fuses Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions with a western outlook. From the bustling backstreets of Chinatown to green spaces like the MacRitchie Reservoir and gleaming shopping malls like ION Orchard, Singapore is an exciting city with plenty to see and do.
Hostels in Singapore stretch across different districts, with fun and friendly backpacker dorms, boutique-style capsule rooms and everything in between. They are perfect for solo travellers and groups. Try a Singapore youth hostel in a heritage building in the heart of Chinatown, a modern lodge with spacious pods on the edge of the nightlife district, or a comfortable capsule youth hostel in up-and-coming Jalan Besar. Complimentary towels, air conditioning and breakfast are standard, as is free Wi-Fi. Some Singapore hostels also have female-only dorms for maximum privacy. Check out our best hostels in Singapore guide here.
Singapore’s charm lies in its distinctive neighbourhoods. Chinatown is a must-visit for its historic shophouses and delectable street food. Little India is equally popular – its main strip, Serangoon Road, is a colourful mix of curry houses, ornate temples and ethnic shops. Nearby Bugis has a street market that's a magnet for bargain hunters, while Lavender is home to many trendy cafés. Clarke Quay is a relaxed riverside district by day; after dark, it transforms into a vibrant nightlife hub.
Most travellers arrive at Changi Airport, which is around 20km east of the city centre. From here, the easiest way to get around is by the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) network; it's a half-hour ride into the city. Metered taxis are plentiful – and ride-sharing app Grab is very popular – but the city's air-conditioned buses are also a good way to get from A to B. Grab a Singapore Tourist Pass or a rechargeable EZ-Link card if you're going for longer.