When traveling, it can be difficult to know the best places to visit, stay, and where to see the coolest sights. Singapore has quickly become a trendy vacation spot for travelers of all types and for several good reasons.

Whether you are a business traveler, or looking to book a romantic vacation for you and your significant other, Singapore offers a wide range of sights, experiences, and oh, did I mention the delicious cuisine? In fact, the city is a super Instagrammable place!

The problem is, how do you know where to stay when you get there? You could spend hours combing through thousands of reviews, or you can read on below since we’ve done the work for you, based on customer reviews and personal insights, we’ll give you the real inside scoop on where to stay in Singapore city!

Where to stay in Singapore for the first time

In this article, I’ll give you some insider tips on some of the best places to stay in Singapore, where to find the best souvenirs, and even a few more great things to know about the dubbed “Switzerland of Asia”. 

We also completely understand that not everyone can afford to lay down a ton of money on a vacation, so we’ll make sure to include some budget-friendly options to make sure you find just what you need.

How To Choose The Best Place To Stay In Singapore?

The best options for accommodation in Singapore are going to be slightly different depending on the neighborhood that you choose to visit, what you are looking to do and the cost of the hotel.

Let’s look at the individual best neighborhoods to stay in Singapore to help you decide which one works best for your travel plans.

Where To Stay In Singapore For The First-Time: Marina Bay/Bayfront

Marina Bay offers some of the most beautiful sites and places to stay in Singapore and is definitely the best place for first-time visitors to Singapore. You’ll be able to experience the beauty of one of the fastest growing destinations in the world. 

The area offers a wide variety of attractions and things to do for just about any type of traveler including couples, families, business travelers, and even those just looking for a good time in the heart of the city.

Here are a few highlight of what Marina Bay has to offer to be added to your itinerary:

  • Gardens by the Bay – One of the main attractions of Marina Bay is this amazing modern natural park. Packed with the famous manmade tree structures and a nightly offering of spectacular colors and views, it’s free to wander for the public. Some attractions inside Gardens by the Bay have entrance fees.
  • ArtScience Museum – The signature exterior design attracts nearly as many visitors as the traditional museum exhibitions you will find inside. The perfect one stop spot to take in art, history, and amazing views.
  • Merlion – I must confess that I am adding Merlion to this list with just a touch of bias. The entire area is beautiful, offering plenty of places to sit bay side and take in an afternoon. Sit close enough to Merlion and you will catch a soft mist as the water rushes from the fountain.
  • Singapore Flyer – Those who are not afraid of heights absolutely must take a ride on the Singapore Flyer. A fantastic slow moving Ferris wheel standing over 500 feet tall. Take in all of the beauty and views in comfort. Make sure to ride it at night. It is simply breathtaking!
  • Ce La Vi – Whether you can afford to stay at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, or you have to choose a more budget-friendly hotel, make sure to set aside some coin for even a simple cocktail at the Ce La Vi restaurant and Sky Bar. This is the perfect spot to cap off an evening out! Tequila lovers should definitely try one of their yummy Paloma Cocktails!!
Where to stay in Singapore on a budget
Best area to stay in Singapore for nightlife

Best Hotels In Marina Bay

Hotels in and around Marina Bay are mostly luxury hotels with hardly any budget options in or near Marina Bay.

Here are the top 3 hotels to stay in Marina Bay and Bayfront area.

Marina Bay Sands Hotel

Marina Bay Sands is the ultimate in luxury hotels, featuring amazing views from the world’s largest rooftop pool. Marina Bay Sands offers one of a kind experience with amazing accommodations for the traveler that can afford the best.

Surely, it might be one of the most expensive hotels in Singapore, but it’s totally worth it! It also has one of the most amazing Singapore hotel rooftop pools.

The Fullerton Hotel

Just a short trip from the Changi International Airport, The Fullerton is located right in the center of Singapore. Get breathtaking views of the gorgeous Singapore Skyline from most rooms.

This premium Singapore accommodation also has some scrumptious food on offer in the Town Restaurant. A stay at the Fullerton will make for a trip to Singapore to remember. 

Marina Mandarin Singapore

The Marina Mandarin is the perfect choice for both business and leisure travelers. 

Thanks to its convenient location to stay in Singapore, just a little over half-a-mile to the convention center, the Marina Mandarin is a bustling hotel with plenty of upgrades and luxury amenities. 

This is my favorite place to stay in Marina Bay, if only for the wide range of food options without having to leave the hotel – perfect for a couple’s retreat.

Best Place To Stay In Singapore for Shopping: Orchard Road

Those with a tendency to wander into local shops or that want a wide variety of options for picking up some amazing souvenirs for friends and family back home or go hunting for the latest fashion trends or unique boutiques, will definitely want to take a day to spend wandering along Orchard Road.

Full of some of the most unique architectural sites I’ve seen in the world, Orchard Road is a must see. Start at the Orchard Central or Ion Orchard shopping mall if you’re coming from the other side. Make sure to show your passport and get an exclusive promotional discount that is given just to overseas travelers when you shop.

Some of the must see shopping spots to check out in Orchard Road include:

  • Tangs Department Store – As a nod to old China, the exterior of Tangs draws shoppers in from all over the world. From the smallest souvenirs to lifestyle pieces that the locals crave and even some of the trendiest fashions, Tangs offers a little bit of everything to satisfy your shopping bug.
  • Mandarin Gallery – Many tourist make the mistake of assuming that the Mandarin Gallery is only an upscale art gallery, when in reality the Mandarin Gallery features several upscale boutiques and high end stores. Need an exclusive gift for someone special that you just cannot pick up on any corner? Then the Mandarin Gallery is the place to shop!
  • Plaza Singapura – One of the longest standing shopping malls in Singapore, the Plaza is a one-stop shopping mall for the every day traveler. Whether you need to pick up some souvenirs or some more shampoo, you will find it somewhere at the Plaza.
  • 313@Somerset Mall – The young and young-at-heart will love the modern and trendy fashion boutiques you can find at 313@Somerset. Just about anyone will also enjoy the late night live music and nightlife happening around the food stalls and restaurants on the ground level.

Best Hotels In Orchard Road

Here are our top three hotel choices when wanting to stay on Orchard Road.

Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel – $$$

Luxury and shopping converge when you stay at the Marriott. World-renown service combined with a convenient location mean that you get everything you need.  Go out for a night on the town in a limo or take advantage of the 24-hour personal concierge service.  I definitely suggest taking an afternoon at The Retreat, the Marriott’s exclusive spa!

Mandarin Orchard – $$

Centrally located only a half-mile from both, the Orchard and Somerset MRT Stations, the Mandarin Orchard hotel is perfect for travelers that want to see the sights or indulge in some of the best shopping in Singapore.

Families are always welcome, but we’ve found the Mandarin to be best place to stay in Singapore for couples.

Hotel Jen Tanglin Singapore by Shangri-La – $

Get all the benefits of staying close to the action without paying the high price.

Hotel Jen Tanglin offers all the amenities needed by most travelers including Wi-Fi and satellite all within waling distance to some of the areas most popular attractions.

Best Area To Stay In Singapore For Nightlife: Clarke Quay/Boat Quay

Clarke Quay is an eclectic mix of history and places to be for those looking for a great night out.

At Clarke Quay and Boat Quay you can let the party lion inside you out and also enjoy some adrenaline inducing fun.

Think I’m joking? Tempt your fear threshold at the G-Max Reverse Bungy to be catapulted nearly 60 feet at speeds of nearly 200 km/h for some heart pounding fun.

Some other great places to spend some your time in Clarke Quay include:

The Best Places To Stay In Singapore
  • Hong San See Temple – Filled with history and beauty, this temple with its walk-up river is by far one of the biggest draws for people the world over.
  • Raffles Place – A unique mix of part business and architecture, Raffles Place is often the place where some amazing events take place. Definitely check to see if there is anything happening worth checking out while you are in Singapore. If not, you will still love the view from the 28th floor of the UOB Plaza One with its 1-Altitude Bar.

Best Hotels In Clarke Quay

Here are our top three choices when it comes to where to stay in Singapore for nightlife, listed with the average price per room from luxury to budget.

Swissotel Merchant Court – $$$

For the traveler looking for premium accommodations including a spa resort and golf course access, the Swissotel Merchant Court has it all.

Only 1000 feet from the MRT Station, Swissotel is a beautiful place to stay. You can also take advantage of their massive buffet everyday or get a taste of home at the Blue Potato.

Park Regis – $$

The one thing we love the most is the Singapore River Cruise and Park Regis is just 1500 feet away from the start of this lovely attraction.

Step out at night for one of the trendy clubs or take in a street dance. Come back to your room for a relaxing bath in one of their premium suites. This hotel is great for individuals, couples, and also families.

M Social – $

Comfort doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg, thanks to the M Social Hotel. Take a stroll to the UE Square shopping Centre or make the trip less than a mile to check out the culture and cuisine in Chinatown.

Business travelers will especially enjoy the self-check-in option and 24-hour concierge services. And they offer secure baggage check if you need to drop off some purchases to clear your arms for more shopping fun!

Chinatown: Best Place To Stay In Singapore For Foodies

Foodies of the world rejoice, Chinatown in Singapore is one of the best places to find some local delicacies, regional favorites, and even some boring “normal” food for the picky eaters in your group, or is that usually just the kids?

Chinatown immediately feels different than the rest of Singapore with the obvious lack of high-rise buildings and modern and ancient architecture mixed together.

There is a strong nod to the areas Buddhist and Hindu heritage with beautiful museums and old world charm temples. 

Best neighborhoods to stay in Singapore

We definitely recommend checking out the Pinnacle @Duxton Skybridge or the Red Dot Museum, which is a little outside the main Chinatown stip. However, what the heart of Chinatown does best is food, especially at the Chinatown Street Market.

  • The Street Market is open everyday and offers hundreds of options for the adventurous foodie to taste and indulge. Even the smell will have your tummy rumbling. The best Dim Sum in the world can be found right here!!

Best Hotels in Singapore’s Chinatown

Here are our top three choices when it comes to where to stay in Singapore.

Parkroyal on Pickering – $$$

Travelers that want to experience the local culture in luxury will love the options available at the Parkroyal on Pickering.

Check out the Lime Restaurant for some amazing international and local cuisine, or take a short walk to the heart of Chinatown and sample the local nightlife and culture.

Six Senses Duxton – $$

For those wanting to be right in the middle of the action, look no further than Six Senses. 

Specifically designed to accommodate shorter stays while providing the best amenities, you are only a 20-minute shuttle ride from the airport.

We recommend checking out one of the in-house restaurants before leaving.

Hotel Mono (Dragon Court) – $

Staying in Chinatown does not have to break the bank.  Hotel Mono offers all of the best for travelers including a staff dedicated to meeting all of your needs. 

Check with guest services and they will be sure to provide you with the most up to date schedules of any activities going on in the area.

Sentosa Island: Best Place To Stay In Singapore For Families & The Beach

As much as most of us would love to head off for a relaxing romantic getaway, some vacations inevitably involve kids, or other members of our family or friends.

In these cases, spots dedicated to nightlife or shopping just do not fit. 

Singapore accommodation

Sentosa Island is a destination vacation spot designed with families and varied groups in mind. From Resorts World to several beaches, Sentosa Island is sure to have something that will be the perfect vacation for you and your family.

A family of 5, including 2 not so easy to please teenagers will love the beaches, but can also be captivated when checking out the S.E.A. Aquarium!

I have seen some amazing sea life, and this aquarium is a step above all the others. This aquarium is apparently one of the worlds largest, and I’m sure I did not even touch the surface of the thousands of animals to see.

Some other things to check out on Sentosa Island include:

  • Universal Studios Singapore – Yep, the same Universal Studios company found all over the world. This is one of the largest, with rollercoasters, great food, and amazing animatronics the whole family is sure to find something to enjoy.
  • Adventure Cove Waterpark – Like many other waterparks, Adventure Cove offers rides and lazy rivers. Where the experience may be a bit different is Rainbow Reef, where you can interact with around 20,000 fish!
  • Beaches – There are several beaches to choose from depending on what your family is looking to enjoy. Families can usually enjoy most of the beaches easily throughout the day. However, many of the beaches turn into a big party later in the evening. Tanjong Beach is great for young adults and couples after the sun goes down, but I would suggest keeping the younger kids away after hours.

Best Hotels On Sentosa Island

Here are our top three choices for staying on beautiful Sentosa Island.

Capella – $$$

Guests of Capella will enjoy the one on one personal attention included with every stay.  Located in the heart of the Sentosa Island rainforests, Capella affords some of the most breathtaking views in all of Singapore.

As an added bonus, your stay includes free admission to Sentosa Island and complimentary shuttle services to all of the surrounding attractions. This hotel is great for families that can afford it.

Village Hotel at Sentosa – $$

The Village Hotel is a favorite for vacationers looking to check out the Adventure Cove Waterpark.

Families regularly rave about the hotel’s family friendly accommodations, including an outdoor swimming pool and real person desk service 24 hours a day!

One15 Marina Club – $

The name means that the hotel is only 1 minute and 15 degrees North of the equator. How cool! This means the One15 Marina Club is the perfect destination for the budget conscious traveler that wants to experience everything Sentosa Island in Singapore has to offer.

You will get an amazing view from the floor to ceiling windows and be able to dine at one of the two restaurants or take a short walk to the boardwalk to take in the night air.

Where To Stay In Singapore On A Budget: Little India

All of us would probably love to never have to worry about the cost of a vacation, but the truth is money matters.

Being budget friendly is not always the primary focus for many vacation spots. Luckily, even the budget-conscious can enjoy a vacation in Singapore.

Little India is the best place to stay in Singapore on a budget and offers plenty of accommodation options for those looking for an experience and to save a few bucks.

The best part of Little India is the location of everything.  In most cases, you can get to just about anything you would need or want in just a few minutes, on foot!

Some of our favorite spots in Little India include:

  • The Mustafa Center – If you have a slight shopping addiction as I do, then you must check out this shopping center open 24 hours a day!
  • Temple of 1,000 Lights – Buddhists has traveled to see the Temple of 1,000 Lights for nearly a century. A 15-meter tall Buddha statue stands prominently surrounded by lamps is definitely a sight to see.

Best Hotels In (Or Near) Little India

Here are our top three choices for budget hotels to stay in Singapore.

Andaz – $$$

Located right between Kampong Glam and Bugis, Andaz Singapore owned by the Hyatt hotel chain offers their guests the widest range of in house amenities, including all-day refreshments, a rooftop bar, and a rain shower in every room!

Village Hotel Albert Court by Far East Hospitality – $$

Designed for the business traveler, the Big Hotel offers all of the necessities with none of the fluff. 

Their spacious rooms are made for those that require both an office and a relaxation space while remaining close to all of the best Little India has to offer. 

Clifden Hostel – $

The Clifden Hostel is the budget friendly option of the budget friendly locations.  The staff offers great service and basic accommodations at a price that you can expect for the area. 

You do not have to sacrifice your site seeing, as the Clifden is located in the heart of the city.  We would not suggest the Clifden for families or younger adults.

There is plenty to see and experience in Singapore, more than one could possibly handle in just one trip.

Whether you have to go for business or are lucky enough to take a relaxing vacation, Singapore has a little something for everyone. 

Best place to stay in Singapore

Hopefully, this article has given you plenty of information to help you plan your Singapore trip. Safe and happy travels always!

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