Where To Stay In Singapore

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Located between Malaysia and Indonesia near the busy Malacca Strait, Singapore is an ultra-modern and technologically advanced city-state and one of the busiest seaports in the world. Home to over five million people and a lot of fleeting population, Singapore is the size of a major city and is surrounded by water on all sides. The city is a melting pot of Chinese, Malaysian, Indian and many other Asian cultures. A sizeable number of visitors also come from Europe, Oceania, and the Americas, making it a dynamic and vibrant cosmopolitan city. Singapore has a well-linked metro network connecting many parts of the city and an excellent taxi/cab network.

Making a decision where to stay in Singapore can be quite a task as there are so many hotels and accommodation options available in various neighbourhoods. Whether you are travelling to Singapore for business or pleasure, selecting where to stay in Singapore is something you should decide well in advance. While most attractions are close to the Central and Southern areas in Singapore, including the Central Business District, some attractions like the Jurong Bird Park, Singapore Zoo, Singapore Discovery Centre and some museums are sprinkled all over the island, making it necessary to take some mode of transportation to reach them.

Singapore is also a fashion and shopping destination popular for its wide range of shops, brands and malls. You can find almost every type of popular international clothing, electronics and much more, and you may even spot Indian, Malaysian, Chinese and Indonesian celebrities shopping here. Singapore is also a Mecca for Indian, Chinese, Malaysian, Indonesian, Vietnamese, Japanese, Korean, European, Australian and other cuisines, along with many fusion dishes and innovative cuisines. Many Michelin-star chefs have a base or an outlet in Singapore. The city has a wide range of eateries that suit all budgets and serve almost every type of cuisine.

Singapore is home to some of Southeast Asia’s best three, four- and five-star hotels. You can find places to stay that suit your budget, conveniences and cuisines, and neighbourhoods that offer many activities for different types of travellers. So whether you are a solo traveller here on business, a family on vacation, or a backpacker, you will find accommodation that will suit your requirements. Many properties are within walking distance to an MRT station, while some are within walking distance of important areas such as Chinatown or Little India. Where to stay in Singapore? Here are some tips.

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Where To Stay In Singapore

Top Tips for Choosing The Best Neighbourhood

where to stay in singapore with family on a budget
Where to stay in Singapore? Here’s the Business district and Little India.

Family Friendly Hotels In Singapore

If you are travelling with a family to Singapore, a convenient neighbourhood with many restaurants and supermarkets nearby would be a priority.

You would also appreciate swimming pools, playgrounds and outdoor areas or parks within or close to the property.

Family-oriented attractions and malls close to the property would be a plus.

The last thing you want on vacation is moving from one attraction to the next, with hungry and cranky kids or infants in tow.

Good hotels are sprinkled across the Central areas of Singapore, including Little India, Orchard Road, Downtown, Chinatown and Sentosa Island.

Luxury Hotels In Singapore

Singapore is extremely well-known for luxury and five-star hotels.

If location and amenities and are important to you and you’re willing to spend a bit more to make your trip memorable, there are plenty of four- and five-star hotels to choose from.

Although many top-rated hotels are close to Marina Bay, Sentosa and central areas, many other luxury hotels in every neighbourhood sometimes offer very attractive pricing too.

Budget-Friendly Hotels In Singapore

Singapore is one of Asia’s most expensive cities and in many parts of Singapore, five-star properties that offer exclusive accommodations, you can also find many places which are easy on the wallet.

For those on a budget-friendly vacation, you have many reasonably priced two- and three-star properties in many neighbourhoods to choose from.

Backpackers have even cheaper options if they are willing to stay in shared accommodations, capsule hotels or dorm-type accommodations, many of which are a stone’s throw away from pubs, restaurants and nightlife.

Best Areas To Stay In Singapore

Marina Bay

one night in singapore where to stay
If you’re wondering where to stay in Singapore for excitement, head to Marina Bay Sands.

There are many interesting neighbourhoods in Singapore but if you want to be close to the action, the best area to stay is Marina Bay.

Located close to the Central Business District, Chinatown, the Civic Quarter, and trendy Clarke Quay and Orchard Road, Marina Bay is popular for its skyscrapers and high-end accommodation.

You can find iconic Singapore landmarks like Gardens By the Bay, Singapore Flyer, Street Circuit Formula One Singapore Grand Prix and the Marina Bay Sands, Ritz-Carlton, The Westin and other five-star resorts in this district.

Pros
  • Close to iconic Singapore landmarks
  • Well-connected to all parts of Singapore, including Sentosa Island
Cons
  • Accommodation is expensive compared to other areas

Hotels in Marina Bay Sands

where to stay in singapore near tourist attractions
Marina Bay Sands hotel is an integrated resort fronting Marina Bay.
Marina Bay Sands (luxury)

Marina Bay Sands is an integrated resort property shaped like a deck of cards and is one of Singapore’s new and iconic landmarks.

Located right on the edge of Marina Bay and owned by Las Vegas Sands, this resort houses 2561 hotel rooms, a mall, a casino, theatres, the world’s largest rooftop infinity pool, world-renowned restaurants run by celebrity chefs including Gordon Ramsay and Wolfgang Puck.

The resort also has a museum and a walkway to Gardens By the Bay.

Conrad Centennial Singapore (Mid Range)

With one of the best locations in Marina Bay, Conrad is close to convention centres, restaurants, and shopping centres and within walking distance from Singapore Flyer and Esplanade.

Apart from the top-notch amenities, the breakfast buffet is quite sought after here.

M Hotel Singapore City Centre (Budget)

This hotel is located right between Marina Bay and the financial district of Singapore.

The hotel is at a short ride away from Chinatown, Vivo City mall (which connects to Sentosa Island) and even Gardens By the Bay. Close to many eateries, the hotel also has an in-house restaurant that serves Asian cuisine and a bar.


Little India

where to stay in sentosa singapore
Colourful windows in Little India.

Little India is Singapore’s very own Indian neighbourhood.

Take a stroll through the Indian neighbourhood filled with colourful shops and buildings, delicious and exotic smells that are sweet and spicy, Indian music, and much more.

Shop for Indian goods in the Mustafa Shopping Centre, visit one of the oldest Hindu temples, taste Indian food at an authentic Indian restaurant, and shop for traditional Indian spices and clothing.

You can find accommodations of different ranges, from hostels that cater to backpackers to five-star restaurants here.

Check out the Indian and Malay Heritage Centre, shop at Tekka Centre, Tan Teng Niah, Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple and, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple when in this area.

Pros
  • You can experience the uniqueness of India in Little India, which is the best place to shop and check out Indian items.
Cons
  • Little India can get crowded, especially on weekends. Eateries and shops can be a little old-fashioned.

Hotels in Little India

where to stay in singapore on a budget
If you’re interested in somewhere to stay in Singapore for culture and colour, head to Little India. Here’s the Sri Veeramakaliamman Hindu temple on Serangoon Road.
One Farrer Hotel (luxury)

Located within walking distance from Farrer Park station, this hotel is three different hotels under one name.

With a variety of stay options, including rooms, studios, apartments, suites and villas, this luxury hotel can cater to different kinds of travellers as well as different lengths of stay.

Rain showers, in-mood lighting, and 55-inch TV are just some of the amenities here.

Wanderlust, The Unlimited Collection by Oakwood (mid-range)

The first thing you’ll notice about this hotel is its unique 1920s Art Deco-style architecture.

This hip, concept hotel is within walking distance from Little India and houses a restaurant that serves delicious Sri Lankan cuisine.

You can find many mom-and-pop stores nearby and studio room options for longer stays.

Holiday Inn Express Singapore Serangoon, an IHG Hotel (budget)

Located at walking distance from Little India, Holiday Inn Express Singapore Serangoon is just a short ride away from Orchard Road, Clarke Quay and other major attractions.

The hotel is also within walking distance from Farrer Park and Lavender MRTs.

This simple and comfortable modern hotel has many room options and amenities.


Chinatown

where to stay in singapore backpacker
When planning where to stay in Singapore for cultural immersion, check out Chinatown especially during Chinese New Year.

Chinatown is one of Singapore’s oldest and perhaps most authentic Singaporean neighbourhoods, where you can find everything from Asian street food, souvenir shops, boutiques and wine bars.

The 200-year-old Sri Mariamman Temple, ornate Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, Asian Civilisations Museum, and Chinese Heritage Museum are some of the attractions you should visit in this area.

Don’t miss the Singapore City Gallery museum highlighting Singapore’s planning and development decade by decade, where interactive exhibits give you an overview of the city’s amazing history.

Pros
  • You can find hotels in many ranges, especially boutique hotels.
  • Chinatown is the best place to find authentic Singaporean items and souvenirs.
Cons
  • Like Little India, Chinatown can also get crowded during peak hours.
  • Some areas and hotels with cheap accommodation are crowded with backpackers and budget travellers.

Hotels in Chinatown

where to stay in joo chiat singapore
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum in Chinatown.
PARKROYAL Collection Pickering, Singapore (luxury)

Located close to Hong Lim Park and the Chinatown MRT station, this posh hotel is a short stroll away from Clarke Quay and Singapore’s nightlife district.

The hotel also has a rooftop club with an amazing view of Singapore’s skyline.

If you are looking for a luxury hotel that has all the amenities and is a short distance from the financial district, nightlife district and Marina Bay, PARKROYAL Collection Pickering is a good choice.

AMOY by Far East Hospitality (mid-range)

AMOY is a conveniently located business hotel that is a tribute to the Chinese settlers who came to Chinatown in Singapore.

The hotel lobby houses a museum that outlines the history of Chinese settlers.

With 37 rooms, the hotel is the ideal pick for a business traveller wanting to stay in the city centre and a short ride away from Chinatown, Clarke Quay, Marina Bay and other central areas.

KÄ“Sa House, The Unlimited Collection by Oakwood (budget)

This freshly refurbished boutique budget hotel is comfortable and cosy in the heart of Chinatown.

Suited for business travellers and those who want to stay longer, the hotel is a stone’s throw away from Chinatown and just a short ride away from Sentosa Island and the financial district.

The unique look and feel of the hotel, along with its central location and budget-friendly pricing, makes it a very good choice for travellers.


Orchard Road

where to stay in singapore
Where to stay in Singapore depends on your plans for your visit. There are some super cool areas.

One of the most famous streets to stay in Singapore is the area around Orchard Road.

With world-class shopping malls, shops and eateries, the area is bustling with shoppers till late into the night.

Along with being one of the best shopping streets in Asia, Orchard Road also has amazing nightlife options.

Along with Clarke Quay, Orchard Road is an excellent area to spend a day or two while visiting the city.

Visit Cathay Gallery for Singaporean history, old film posters and cameras. Don’t miss the view from the 56th floor of the ION Orchard Mall.

Pros
  • With many well-rated hotels in different price ranges, you’ll be spoilt for choice among hotels here.
  • It’s the best area for shopping and retail therapy.
Cons
  • Shopping and food can be on the pricier side.

Hotels on Orchard Road

Four Seasons Hotel Singapore (luxury)

The Four Seasons is on Orchard Road and a stone’s throw from Singapore’s famous shopping and entertainment district.

This elegant five-star property has all the usual bells and whistles of luxury, including tennis courts, two swimming pools and Michelin-starred restaurants.

The centrally located hotel is a 15-minute taxi ride away from Marina Bay and Sentosa Island.

Quincy Hotel Singapore by Far East Hospitality (mid-range)

If you are looking for a trendy hotel just a short stroll away from the lively Orchard Road that includes a plethora of entertainment, dining and high-end shopping options, you should pick this hotel.

With many amenities and recreational facilities such as a minibar, infinity pool, sauna and complimentary evening cocktails, this hotel is ideal for those looking to spend their evenings in the busy shopping district of Singapore.

Vibe Hotel Singapore Orchard (budget)

Located in a quieter part of the busy Orchard Road area, this hotel gives you a quiet ambience for working during the day and taking a stroll to enjoy Singapore’s nightlife later.

This hotel is for you if you are on a budget but still seeking the best shopping areas near Orchard Road.


Civic District

where to stay in singapore for tourist Clarke Quay at night
When choosing where to stay in Singapore, you won’t have trouble finding a neighbourhood with eateries. Clarke Quay is especially vibrant at night.

The Civic District within the Downtown Core is one of the top neighbourhoods to stay in Singapore to enjoy the historical, architectural and cultural gems.

You can find the neoclassical Asian Civilisations Museum, Victoria Theatre, National Gallery Singapore, themed gardens, parks and clubs in this district, along with high-end shopping malls and restaurants.

Also close to the lively Bugis Street, home to souvenir shops, street food and shopping marts, the Civic District is where you must stay if you want to see the best of everything in Singapore.

Pros
  • Best central location to stay away from the crowd and still be close to Downtown areas.
Cons
  • Accommodation is expensive compared to areas that are just a short ride away.

Hotels In Civic District

places in singapore where its cheap to stay
When researching where to stay in Singapore, you’ll find a range of neighbourhoods for all budgets.
The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore (luxury)

Capitol Kempinski Hotel is an architectural centrepiece of the Civic District, restored from the Capitol Building and Stamford House.

This contemporary five-star property has everything you can ask from a five-star stay and more.

With Marina Bay, Esplanade, Clarke Quay and shopping malls at walking distance from the hotel, this is one of the best areas in Singapore and the hotel to go for if you can.

Carlton Hotel Singapore (mid-range)

With all the modern amenities, large upgraded rooms and a range of restaurants to choose from, this sleek upscale hotel is ideal for those looking for a comfortable stay in Singapore.

Ideally located within walking distance from Clarke Quay, Suntec Singapore and Esplanade, Carlton is ideal for business travellers and those looking to be close to the Downtown.
lyf Funan Singapore (budget)

Situated right in the Funan Mall, this hotel is ideal for those who want to stay on a budget in the Downtown Core of Singapore.

Also housing a co-working area, this budget hotel has all the amenities to make your stay comfortable while being a short walk away from Clarke Quay, museums and shopping malls.


Sentosa Island

where to stay in singapore area sunny day on the beach
If you’re wondering where to stay in Singapore when travelling with kids, pick Sentosa Island.

Sentosa Island will inevitably be part of your itinerary when visiting Singapore with kids. 

Loaded with family attractions, this island has many attractions like Universal Studios, Resorts World Sentosa, Madam Tussauds, waterparks, an Aquarium, museums, many adventure activities and even beautiful beaches that take more than a couple of days to visit.

Staying on Sentosa Island makes it super convenient as you will be close to many attractions and can walk to numerous attractions.

If you want to visit the southern beaches on Sentosa Island, Siloso, Palawan, and Tanjong are popular with families visiting Singapore.

There are enough family attractions on Sentosa island to keep you and your family busy for at least four or five days, if not more.

Pros
  • Perfect for spending a few days exploring Sentosa Island’s attractions, especially for families and couples.
  • You can save travel to and from the island and cover more attractions.
Cons

Island accommodation is expensive. Mainland attractions and the Downtown area can seem a bit far at times.

Hotels in Sentosa

Capella Singapore (luxury)

This luxury five-star hotel on Sentosa is tucked away among the island’s greenery.

This stylish hotel has well-designed rooms and villas with balconies, Bose sound systems, Nespresso coffee machines, designer linens and in-room refreshments.

With three outdoor pools and an excellent spa, this hotel retreat is ideal for taking a vacation and visiting the island’s attractions comfortably.

The Barracks Hotel Sentosa by Far East Hospitality (mid-range)

Centrally located on Sentosa Island, this five-star boutique hotel is close to Universal Studios, Palawan Beach, Wings of Time, and many other attractions.

With clean rooms and personalised service, this luxury boutique hotel is housed in a conserved heritage building and is ideal for couples.

Village Hotel Sentosa by Far East Hospitality (budget)

This hotel is in the centre of Sentosa, surrounded by restaurants and most of the island’s attractions.

This four-star hotel has a relaxed ambience and three outdoor pools and is conveniently located close to the cable car from VivoCity Shopping Centre on the mainland.

It’s great for families and couples and budget friendly compared to other hotels on the island.


Best Hostels And Budget Hotels In Singapore

where is the best place to stay in singapore
Colonial architecture in Amoy Street in Chinatown.

If you are a backpacker on a tight budget and don’t mind sharing your room with others, here are some of our favourite hostel picks.

The amenities offered might vary with the hostel, all of them are located in busy central areas and just a stone’s throw away from street food markets and nightlife areas, depending on which area you choose.

Here are some unique hostels that offer a lot for their price.

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Vamsee Chandra
Vamsee Chandra lives in Hyderabad in India and is a financial markets trader by profession. An engineer with an MBA, he is a free-spirited traveller at heart. He has visited 17 countries on three different continents (Asia, Europe and North America) and has a personal target of visiting 50 countries before he retires. His favourite city is Paris, for its amazing museums and people. His favourite building is Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the tallest building in the world, and his favourite countryside is the Bavarian region in Germany, where the Neuschwanstein Castle is located.