Hong Kong vs Singapore: Which Is Better For Travel?

Torn between Hong Kong and Singapore for your first trip to Asia?  I totally get it. I’ve been to both cities and loved them, so I know how tough this decision can be.

Both Hong Kong and Singapore are perfect for first-time visitors. They’re former British colonies with rich cultural histories, stunning skylines, and widely spoken English.

As major business and financial hubs, both cities are well-connected to the world! But, each offers unique experiences that might suit your travel style better.

In this post, I’ll help you decide which Asian destination should top your travel bucket list. Whether you’re into shopping, outdoor adventures, or trying local food, I’ll break down exactly what each city has to offer.

So, let’s get into the ultimate showdown: Hong Kong vs. Singapore!

Basic Facts of Hong Kong and Singapore

Before we get into the details, here’s a quick comparison of Hong Kong and Singapore to give you a better idea of each city.

By breaking down the essentials, I hope this helps you in your decision-making process. Keep reading for a deeper dive into what makes Hong Kong and Singapore unique!

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12 Key Differences: Hong Kong vs Singapore

1. Location

Even though Hong Kong and Singapore are both in Asia, they’re in very different parts, which can impact your travel plans. 

The distance between them is about 2,600 km (1,615 miles), roughly a 4-hour flight.

Singapore: This island city-state is at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. Surrounded by Malaysia and Indonesia, it’s close to Thailand and makes a great base for exploring Southeast Asia. Plus, it’s perfect for a layover if you’re heading to Sri Lanka.

Hong Kong: Located on the southern coast of China, in the Pearl River Delta, it’s a gateway to mainland China and just a short flight from other East Asian countries like Japan and South Korea.

Both cities are major travel hubs with plenty of flight options. So, the choice depends on where you’re coming from and where else you want to explore in Asia.

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2. Weather and Best Time to Visit

Both Hong Kong and Singapore have tropical weather, so expect heat and humidity. But let’s break it down:

Hong Kong: It has four distinct seasons, including a short winter. The best time to visit is autumn (October to December) when it’s cooler and drier, with temps around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Spring (March to May) is also nice but a bit rainier.

Singapore: It’s warm and humid all year round. Trust me, the moment you step out of your air-conditioned hotel, you’ll start sweating. It’s even hot at night! 

The best time to visit Singapore is between February and April when it’s slightly cooler and less rainy. I visited during Christmas, and while there’s no snow in Singapore, the hot weather lets you enjoy outdoor activities anytime.

For me, Hong Kong wins in the weather category, especially for those of us who can’t handle the heat!

Bonus Tip: Avoid outdoor activities during midday, like visiting Gardens by the Bay, or you might pass out like I almost did! 

3. Getting There: Hong Kong vs Singapore 

Flying to Hong Kong or Singapore is pretty straightforward since both cities are major travel hubs, but there are some differences.

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) is one of the busiest airports in the world, with direct flights from major cities everywhere. 

When I landed, it was super easy to get around, and the express train got me to the city center in just 24 minutes. You can also get to Hong Kong from Shenzhen via train or take a ferry from Macau.

Singapore’s Changi Airport (SIN) has been ranked the best airport in the world for years, though it lost the top spot to Doha in 2024. 

It’s like a mini city with shops, restaurants, a butterfly garden, and the world’s largest indoor waterfall. I actually enjoyed my layover here!

You can also arrive in Singapore by land from Malaysia—just remember to fill out your Singapore arrival card online!

Both cities have excellent airports, but for me, Singapore’s Changi Airport is the winner.

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4. Getting Around: Hong Kong vs Singapore 

Public transportation in both Hong Kong and Singapore is fantastic, making it super easy to navigate either city.

Hong Kong’s MTR is efficient, clean, and covers almost the entire city. I loved the double-decker trams (“ding ding”)—they’re perfect for sightseeing!

Don’t miss the Central-Mid-Levels Escalator, the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system, which is great for avoiding the city’s hilly terrain.

For a scenic route between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, take the Star Ferry.

Singapore’s MRT is just as efficient but less crowded and buses cover areas where the MRT doesn’t reach. Unlike Hong Kong, there’s no Uber in Singapore, but the free travel app Grab is super handy for quick, direct rides.

Both cities are very walkable and safe. For me, Hong Kong’s diverse transport options, like the ding ding and the Star Ferry, give it a slight edge.

Pro Tip: If you plan to use public transport a lot, get the Octopus card in Hong Kong or the EZ-Link card in Singapore.

5. Accommodation Options

Finding a place to stay in both Hong Kong and Singapore can be pretty pricey since space is limited in these island cities.

If you’re willing to splurge, you can stay at some of the best hotels in the world, like Marina Bay Sands in Singapore or The Rosewood in Hong Kong.

For budget travelers, it’s a different story. In Hong Kong, I ended up in a mixed dorm the size of a closet with no curtains. Not ideal, but it was all I could afford at the time.

Singapore, on the other hand, has some great capsule hotels. While still expensive, you get more privacy and a proper bed in usually stunning settings.

Both cities offer amazing luxury options, but finding cheap accommodations can be tough. If you’re on a budget, be prepared for tight spaces and high prices. 

Singapore’s capsule hotels offer a bit more comfort, so for that, the point goes to Singapore.

6. Food Scene 

When it comes to cheap eats, Singapore is hands down the winner. The hawker centers are amazing! These spots have street vendors selling delicious, affordable dishes from all kinds of backgrounds.

When visiting Singapore, you’ve got to try local favorites like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and chili crab.

Hong Kong has food courts and plenty of international options, but they just can’t match the vibe and variety of Singapore’s hawker centers.

For upscale dining, Hong Kong takes the lead with 77 Michelin-starred restaurants compared to Singapore’s 55. 

In Hong Kong, you must try dim sum. It’s perfect for a cheap brunch or a high-end meal—just remember to dress up if you’re going fancy!

7. Safety for Solo Female Travelers

Safety is a big deal for solo female travelers, and I found both Hong Kong and Singapore to be incredibly safe.

In Hong Kong, I felt comfortable exploring on my own both day and night. The city is well-lit, and there are always people around, which made me feel secure.

Singapore might be even safer. Known for its strict laws and low crime rate, I walked around late at night without any issues and always felt at ease. The locals are friendly and helpful, and there’s a strong police presence.

If you need to convince your parents to let you travel alone, mention the low crime rates, efficient public transport, and the widespread use of English. That helped me convince mine!

For me, Singapore edges out slightly due to its ultra-low crime rate, but both destinations are excellent choices for solo female travelers.

Bonus Tip: Watch out for common scams and don´t forget to bring some women´s safety essentials!

8. Cost of Living: Hong Kong vs Singapore 

Let’s talk about the cost of living in Hong Kong and Singapore. Both cities are pricey, so be ready for some sticker shock.

According to The Economist, Singapore is tied with Zurich as the most expensive city in the world, while Hong Kong ranks 5th. However, I found Singapore to be a bit cheaper. Here’s why.

In Hong Kong, you might “only” need to spend $25 USD for a sketchy hostel. In Singapore, $32 USD gets you a much nicer capsule hotel. 

When it comes to food, you can get a low-quality meal at some random shop in Hong Kong, but $4 USD will buy you a great meal at a hawker center in Singapore. Plus, Singapore has tons of free attractions at Gardens by the Bay! 

Overall, if you’re on a tight budget, Hong Kong might be the better choice. But for a slightly higher cost, Singapore offers better value for money and more comfort.

9. Top Things to Do: Hong Kong vs Singapore 

Both Hong Kong and Singapore are packed with amazing activities. Here are my top picks for each city:

Hong Kong

1. Victoria Peak: Hop on the tram for breathtaking views of the city skyline.
2. Star Ferry: Ride this iconic ferry between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon.
3. Street Markets: Discover bustling Temple Street Night Market.
4. Big Buddha: Visit the massive Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island and enjoy a vegetarian lunch at the monastery.
5. Disneyland: Great for a fun day, especially if you’re traveling Hong Kong with kids.
6. Hiking: Discover scenic trails around the city.
7. Macau: Take a day trip to the “Las Vegas of Asia” to try your luck at a casino.

Singapore

1. Marina Bay Sands: Visit the SkyPark for incredible views.
2. Gardens by the Bay: Wander through the Supertree Grove and Cloud Forest.
3. Sentosa Island: Enjoy beaches, Universal Studios, and adventure activities.
4. Raffles Hotel: Sip a Singapore Sling at this historic spot.
5. Shopping Malls: Indulge in world-class shopping.
6. Hiking: Explore the Southern Ridges Trail for city and nature views.
7. Little India & Chinatown: Check out these vibrant cultural neighborhoods.
8. Singapore Zoo: Experience the Night Safari and see exotic animals.
9. Jewel Changi Airport: Marvel at the world’s largest indoor waterfall.
10. Botanic Gardens: Visit the world’s top-rated botanical garden.
11. Merlion Statue: See the iconic half-mermaid, half-lion symbol of Singapore.

My Take

For world-class attractions, Singapore has a slight edge. It seems like for every attraction in Hong Kong, Singapore has an equivalent that’s just a bit better.

However, if you’re after a more authentic Asian experience, Hong Kong’s temples and street markets might be more your style.

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10. City Vibes: Hong Kong vs Singapore

I wasn’t sure what to call this section, but I wanted to share how each city felt to me.

Hong Kong is all about speed and crowds, with everyone constantly on the move. I enjoyed getting lost in its night markets, narrow alleys, and cute shops.

The city’s rugged vibe brought back memories of Bangkok and Shanghai, two places I absolutely love!

Singapore feels like a breath of fresh air—calm, green, and spotlessly clean, thanks to its strict laws. People here seem happier and friendlier, and it’s way quieter with less honking.

I loved the mix of sleek high-rises and colonial buildings, especially around Gardens by the Bay. Plus, it’s super family-friendly with loads of attractions for kids.

Both cities are great for walking and feel very safe, but if I could pick a place to live long-term without worrying about money, I’d go with Singapore.

11. Language: Hong Kong vs Singapore

Getting around in Hong Kong and Singapore is pretty easy for English speakers, but there are some key differences.

Hong Kong

In Hong Kong, the official languages are Chinese and English. Most signs and menus are in both, but don’t be surprised if some taxi drivers and older locals don’t speak much English.

Knowing a bit of Mandarin can be helpful since many people understand it, even though Cantonese is the main dialect. If you don’t speak either, a free translation app like Google Translate can save the day.

Singapore

Singapore is super English-friendly. English is one of the four official languages, along with Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. Almost everyone speaks English fluently since it’s the main language for education and business.

You’ll also come across “Singlish” a fun mix of English with local slang and expressions. It might sound a bit different at first, but I never had any trouble getting around or talking to people.

Overall, Singapore is easier for pure English speakers since almost everyone is fluent. If you know some Cantonese or Mandarin, you’ll be fine in Hong Kong too, but Singapore takes the win for English convenience.

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12. Nightlife: Hong Kong vs Singapore 

When it comes to nightlife, Hong Kong and Singapore offer totally different vibes. Both are fantastic, so it really depends on what kind of night out you’re looking for!

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a night owl’s paradise. The city never seems to sleep. I’ve taken the subway at midnight, and it’s still buzzing with people. 

Lan Kwai Fong is the place to be for bars and clubs. I had a blast bar-hopping there! Plus, most rooftop bars in Hong Kong offer stunning views of the skyline and Victoria Harbour.

Singapore

Singapore’s nightlife is a bit more polished and upscale. Clarke Quay is the main spot for bars and clubs, and yes, it even has Asia’s first Hooters.

Just remember, alcohol is super pricey in Singapore and you can’t drink in public after 10:30 PM. One of those weird Singapore laws!

Finally, both cities have fantastic nighttime shows. In Hong Kong, the nightly light show lights up the skyscrapers to music—best viewed from Kowloon. In Singapore, the Gardens by the Bay light show is a must-see! It was the highlight of my Singapore trip and it’s totally free!

And the Winner Is… Singapore!

After weighing all the pros and cons, Singapore wins for your first trip to Asia.

Why Singapore? It’s clean, safe, and super easy to navigate. Changi Airport is top-notch, and the city is incredibly well-planned, mixing green spaces with cutting-edge technology and excellent shopping.

You can stroll through the free Gardens by the Bay, explore beautiful ethnic neighborhoods, and enjoy incredible street food at the hawker centers. Plus, Singapore is very Westernized, and everyone speaks English, making it a perfect starting point for any Asia adventure.

While I’ve never seen anything quite like Singapore, I absolutely think Hong Kong is worth a visit. I loved the fun nightlife, stunning skyline, and unique ways to get around Hong Kong (especially the ding ding!).

So, if you’re planning your first trip to Asia, I highly recommend starting with Singapore. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

FAQs: Hong Kong vs Singapore

Is Hong Kong in Singapore?

No, Hong Kong and Singapore are separate cities located in different parts of Asia. Hong Kong is on the southern coast of China, while Singapore is an island city-state at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula.

Is Hong Kong bigger than Singapore?

Yes, Hong Kong is bigger than Singapore. Hong Kong covers around 1,106 km² (427 mi²), while Singapore is about 728 km² (281 mi²).

How far is Hong Kong from Singapore?

The distance between Hong Kong and Singapore is approximately 2,600 km (1,615 miles), or about a 4-hour flight.

Which is better, Hong Kong or Singapore?

It depends on what you’re looking for. Hong Kong is vibrant and chaotic with great nightlife, while Singapore is sleek, sophisticated, and incredibly clean. For a first trip to Asia, I recommend Singapore for its ease and modern amenities.

Which is richer, Singapore or Hong Kong?

Both cities are wealthy, but Singapore has a significantly higher GDP per capita at 82,807.63 USD compared to Hong Kong’s 48,983.62 USD, making it the richer of the two.

Is Hong Kong more expensive than Singapore?

According to the Economist, Singapore is the most expensive city in the world, while Hong Kong ranks 5th. However, I found that traveling in Hong Kong can be slightly more expensive than in Singapore, especially when it comes to accommodation and dining out

Is Singapore safer than Hong Kong?

Both cities are very safe, but Singapore often ranks higher in safety indexes. Singapore’s strict laws and efficient public services contribute to its reputation as one of the safest cities in the world.

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Final Words on Hong Kong vs Singapore

Picking between Hong Kong and Singapore for your first trip to Asia is no easy task since both cities have so much to offer.

Personally, I’d lean towards Singapore for all the reasons I mentioned earlier. But hey, that’s just my take! Maybe I’m a bit biased because I’ve been to Singapore more often than Hong Kong.

So, what about you? Have you visited either city, or are you gearing up for your first Asian adventure? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

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