Where to Stay in Singapore

My Favorite Hotels in Singapore

• 5-star: Raffles
• 4-

  • An international menu at Enca Café focuses especially on Indian cuisine. The cafe can be found at this location.

• 3-You may also want to consider the 3-star rated Gin Bugis hotel • For families: Ascott Orchard
• For couples: Naumi
• Best pool: Marina Bay
• Inexpensive: The Zur guten Quelle hotel offers budget-friendly rates a large white building with two large windows

Remaining near the city’s excellent Mass Rapid Transit system (MRT) is highly advisable regardless of neighborhood chosen. The system has 140 stations across six MRT lines. Stations with stops for multiple lines are particularly convenient.

Here are some Singapore hotels near MRT stations: JW Marriott South Beach (at Esplanade station) – Capitol Kempinski (at City Hall station) – Conrad Centennial (at Promenade station) – Orchard Parksuites (at Orchard station) – Andaz by Hyatt (at Bugis station) – Paradox Merchant Court (at Clarke Quay station)

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The Best Areas To Stay in Singapore

Located on the southern edge of Malaysia, the city-state of Singapore has evolved from a virtually uninhabited swampland afflicted by malaria into one of the world’s most significant urban centers, busiest ports, and key transport hubs in under two centuries, especially since the 1970s. However, Singapore retains a unique quality: it is predominantly populated by the descendants of migrants originating from China and, to a lesser degree, India and Malaysia. As one of very few sovereign states consisting almost entirely of a single city, it happily safeguards and promotes its colonial heritage.

Almost six million individuals inhabit an area measuring around 19 by 10 miles, a terrain extent that has enlarged significantly by about 25% owing to reclaimed development in recent decades. In the urban center, the Colonial District is densely packed with sights – from the Bugis Street Market to the National Museum and other colonial-era structures like the iconic Raffles Hotel, one of various superior hotels in the city, and the unique place of origin of the Singapore Sling beverage. Heading westward from this area, Orchard Road satisfies the two major passions of locals and visitors: shopping at the 20+ shopping centers and eating among the limitless world-class eateries and genuine food courts.

Adjacent to the Colonial District is Marina Bay – an extraordinary reclaimed land filled with flashy hotels led by the colossal Marina Bay Sands complex and the innovative Gardens by the Bay next door. Meandering inland from Marina Bay, Singapore River was formerly an impoverished village of boats but now has beautifully restored colonial buildings, tall hotels, inviting bistros, bars, and nightclubs lining its banks.

South of the river, Chinatown authentically shows the vibrancy of cultural festivals. Home to a mosque and Hindu temple, it invites exploration on foot and dining on noodle bowls. encapsulated examples of the other major ethnic groups are Little India with its welcoming cafes, fascinating temples, and affordable lodging. Nearby is Kampong Glam, the Malay and Arab district home to mosques, markets, and inexpensive eateries.

The numerous large resorts on Sentosa Island, located off the south coast of Singapore, make it one of the most thrilling places in the world for families and others due to attractions like its marina and golf courses. Most visitors are especially interested in the island`s amazing theme parks and outdoor activities.

The Best Places to Stay in Singapore

a hotel room with a view of the city

Best Areas in Singapore for…

  • Best District in Singapore for Sightseeing: Colonial Area
    This inner-city locale presents many highlights crammed into a compact area that is also quite attractive and comparatively tranquil. Notable sights encompass the Bugis Street Market, once a red-light district and now an immense indoor shopping center; the National Museum, the city’s oldest and finest; the National Gallery, the biggest in Southeast Asia; and the Peranakan Museum, with displays about the unique culture of descendants of Chinese and Malays. And it`s nearly obligatory to finish at minimum one day of sightseeing with a Singapore Sling cocktail at the iconic Raffles Hotel.
  • The Best Area in Singapore for Nightlife: Around the Singapore River
    This small river is lined on both banks with trendy places for eating, socializing, and enjoying drinks long into the night. Stroll along the waterside paths or take water taxis to explore the extensive choice of bars and nightclubs, some housed in converted warehouses from what was previously an area afflicted by poverty and junk boats less than 40 years ago. Most bars offer food and a few also function as microbreweries, with all types of music provided from live jazz, blues, and rock to funky DJs towering over impossibly crowded dance floors. Especially vibrant and historic around Clarke Quay and Robertson Quay.
  • Most excellent Areas in Singapore for Nourishment & Eateries: Chinatown and Tiny India
    While some of the poshest eateries in Asia are within the Colonial District and the top-end hotels around Marina Bay, it makes sense to enjoy local cuisine in a country overwhelmingly populated by Chinese. The narrow lanes and frenetic markets of Chinatown are overflowing with dining spots – from basic noodle cafés to world-class restaurants serving Peking Duck and dim sum. Another classic Singapore experience is the `banana leaf` restaurants at Little India where servers dole out curries, rice, and lentils onto banana leaves and diners scoop up the delicious food by hand.
  • Most Recommended Location in Singapore for Families: Sentosa Island
    About half a mile off the southern coast of the mainland, this island retreat is hugely popular among families who often stay at one of the enormous resorts that offer a kids` pool, sizable lodging, and fun activities for all. There`s certainly adequate attractions able to occupy an entire week, and almost everything is connected by the Sentosa Express monorail or complimentary tram. Outdoor enjoyment includes cycling, bathing, and watersports, but most come for the theme parks like Universal Studios and other world-renowned spots, such as the expansive waterpark and magnificent aquarium. And it`s quite amusing simply arriving by cable vehicle from the peak of Mount Faber.

people on a beach near the ocean

  • Best Beaches near Singapore: Sentosa Island
    Most people visit Sentosa for the diverse range of theme parks and other indoor attractions like the aquarium, however there is also plenty to do outside. Many resorts rent bicycles which can be used along exclusive paths away from traffic. Swimming is possible along manmade sections of the coastline with golden beaches and beach clubs. And a basic selection of water-sports, including wind-surfing, kayaking, and water-skiing, are likewise available.
  • Best Area in Singapore for Vibe and Culture: Chinatown
    This Chinatown within a Chinese city is potentially the most authentic of its type on Earth. The narrow roads are filled with chaotic markets, traditional-style cafés, and colorful Chinese temples, as well as a revered mosque and a Hindu temple. It isn`t surprising that there is no shortage of places to eat, including some of Asia’s tastiest dim sum, and the streets are especially exotic during one of the city’s many festivals. The initial stop should be the Chinatown Heritage Centre to learn about Singapore’s short but remarkable history.
  • Best Area in Singapore for Shopping: Orchard Road
    Nearly 2 miles in distance, Orchard Road could be as renowned a shopping destination as some streets in New York and Paris, filled with locations to spend money continuously. The 20+ shopping centers and numerous markets offer anything and everything from international designer boutiques to souvenirs such as jade, porcelain jugs, batik shirts, calming Tiger Balm, and bak kwa (chewy pork strips) – but stick to the malls if receipts, guarantees, and authenticity are essential. Near the end of the road, which is paralleled by an MRT subway line, is the perfect place to unwind after all that shopping: the Botanic Gardens.
  • The Best Area in Singapore for Walking: The Colonial District
    Unlike Chinatown, Little India, and Orchard Road, the inner-city Colonial District does not always have heavy traffic and the roads are wide and, regularly, shaded. There’s plenty to explore on foot, such as the city’s finest museum and region’s largest art gallery, as well as St. Andrew’s Cathedral and Victoria Theatre. Specially inviting are the leafy oases of Fort Canning Park and colonial-era Padang (town square), now often used for cricket matches.

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  • Best Area in Singapore for Transport: Colonial District
    Highly efficient and very cost effective, the metro system crisscrosses the city with five lines, is used by over three million passengers daily, and also connects many outlying attractions as well as the airport. While there`s plenty to see on foot in and around the Colonial District, at minimum one of the stations across three lines are within a brief walk of each hotel in the area, and the stations are often linked by underground malls.
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  • Best Area for Savings: Little India
    It’s easy to cut expenses by dining at simple cafés catering to locals and utilizing the excellent public transportation system which is pleasingly low-cost. The overwhelming daily cost, however, will be lodging. Singapore is one of the least affordable city-holiday destinations on earth and inexpensive hotels are scarce and often not highly rated. In fact, limited space has led to the opening of many ‘capsule’ and ‘pod’ hotels/hostels, offering coffin-like beds with shared facilities. Still walkable to Orchard Road and the Colonial District and well-connected by the MRT metro, Little India has many budget-friendly hotels and low-cost restaurants. (Most won’t sell alcohol, which is also pricey.)
  • Most Romantic Area in Singapore: Singapore River
    This calm waterway flows east from the hilly inside landscape to the amazing Marina Bay, which was built on reclaimed soil and almost a freshwater reservoir. Both sides of the river are dotted with charming colonial-era structures, including exhibitions and art galleries, as well as inviting bars, bistros, and nightclubs, some transformed from warehouses. Particularly atmospheric after dark and during the city’s numerous Chinese festivals, there is no finer way to appreciate the river than on a cruise, which regularly includes dinner.
  • Best Region in Singapore for First-Time Visitors: Marina Bay
    It does not take very long to realize that Singapore is exceptionally straightforward: it’s compact, nearly every Singaporean speaks English, all signs are in English, and the public transportation system is first-class. Mainly constructed on reclaimed land, Marina Bay offers significantly more space than elsewhere in this densely populated city, and the range of places to stay and eat are top-notch. All hotels in this area are within walking distance of outstanding attractions, such as the Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Flyer, and sound and light show. Also, just a brief trip by metered taxi (or MRT metro) to all the other sights and amenities within the city center.
  • Safest Zone in Singapore: Marina Bay
    No area within Singapore is entirely safe, but with millions of inhabitants and so many visitors, opportunistic petty crimes like bag-snatching and pick-pocketing are always potentially possible. Take typical precautions, especially around crowded streets and markets in Chinatown and Little India, and on public transportation which can become very crowded during peak times. The safest location is Marina Bay, a modern and spacious expanse with wide and well-illuminated streets

The 8 Best Neighborhoods in Singapore for Tourists

a large building with a large clock on it

1. Colonial District

This central downtown location, only a mile from every other region below, has an especially noteworthy assortment of attractions. It`s an easy stroll from each hotel in this area to the National Museum, National Gallery, and Peranakan Museum, which explains the unique culture of descendants from Chinese/Malay marriages. Dominating the region, the wonderful Fort Canning Park sits atop a hill and includes a spice garden and war museum. This district, incorporating places called Bencoolen, Bugis, and Bras Basah, is packed with high-rise hotels and colonial-era structures, such as the world-renowned Raffles. Among the extensive selection of restaurants are several serving authentic Peranakan cuisine and many providing spectacular city views, and there are plenty of stylish boutiques in the shopping centers and affordable stalls in the famous Bugis Street Market. With various stops along MRT subway lines, the area is also well-linked to the remainder of Singapore and the airport.

2. Sentosa Island

Only a short distance from the southern edge of the mainland, this previous military base is now Singapore’s lively and bustling playground. There is plenty to satisfy both adults and children – two golf courses, a marina, and several upscale beach clubs – but Sentosa mostly focuses on families. Most of the extensive 5-star resorts provide special rooms, a children’s pool, and activities for entire families. The younger ones will get very enthusiastic about all the theme parks, like Universal Studios, Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom, and the waterpark and aquarium, among numerous other outstanding attractions. Outdoor activities include swimming at artificial beaches, cycling on dedicated paths, and many water sports – and among all this modern indulgence is a 19th-century fort. The excellent variety and quality of places to eat and drink include lots of seaside bistros, often with a playground and live music. And Sentosa provides tons of fun to reach by cable car and is so easy to get around by monorail and tram.

3. Orchard Road

Stretching approximately 2 miles from the Colonial District to near the spectacular Botanic Gardens is one of the world`s premier shopping districts. Tourists tend to spend significantly more time than anticipated exploring over 20 multi-level department stores, designer boutiques, and affordable stalls offering souvenirs at the malls along this major thoroughfare. It is also lined with both upscale and mid-range hotels possessing colonial-era charm, while dining establishments range from Michelin-rated bistros to spacious food courts providing an ideal spot to sample local fare. The roadway (and all its accompanying hotels and amenities) is helpfully connected by multiple MRT metro lines with links around the city and to the airport.

4. Marina Bay

people are lounging on a balcony overlooking the ocean

This reclaimed land zone offers Singapore`s most striking architecture, stunning attractions, and sought-after perspectives. Along the western shore of the bay (in fact more of a freshwater reservoir) is the diminutive Merlion statue, the city`s symbol. The eastern edge is dominated by the extraordinarily iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel complex, now among the most recognizable sights in Southeast Asia. Also housing a casino, theatre, shopping mall, the ArtScience Museum, and breathtaking observation deck, the buildings are brilliantly illuminated during the nightly sound and light shows. Across the water, Singapore Flyer, Asia`s largest observation wheel, provides awe-inspiring views of the bay, river, and city. Other attractions include the finest public golf course for views and convenience; the vast, futuristic Gardens by the Bay, home to approximately one million plants, a waterpark, and a fantastic food court; and cruises on traditional-style bumboats that also head along Singapore River. Most hotels are on the northern side of the bay and well-connected by the excellent MRT metro and walkable to many other inner-city services and attractions.

5. Singapore River

Meandering amidst the inner urban area from Marina Bay, this waterway provides a delightful place to wander alongside and visit must-sees such as the Asian Civilisations Museum housed in one of the many beautifully preserved colonial buildings facing the river. The numerous quays are utilised by boats offering cruises and water-taxis heading to Marina Bay and further upstream. These cruises are most appealing after dark, notably during one of the city’s numerous Chinese festivals or the sound and light show at the Marina Bay Sands complex. Both riverbanks are lined with popular bars, nightclubs, and bistros, some accommodated in repurposed warehouses and perfect for sampling chili crab, Singapore’s unofficial national dish. Nicely distant from downtown traffic, hotels along the riverside precinct are within an easy walk to an abundance of attractions in the Colonial District and Chinatown and to stations of the excellent MRT metro system.

a person standing on a bridge with a clock on it

6. Chinatown

Settled by Hokkien, Hakka, Cantonese, and Teochew people from the mid-19th century, portions of the initial constructions throughout Chinatown have endured the consequent business onslaught and much of the region stays remarkably undisturbed by mass tourism. The primary stop just before exploring this zone south of the Singapore River must be the Chinatown Heritage Centre to gain knowledge about the city’s early history. Then stroll along the slim streets and verify out the frantic markets, conventional cafés, and colourful Chinese temples. Surprisingly, Chinatown is furthermore dwelling to a revered Hindu temple and a 19th-century mosque. Worth exploring on a bicycle, trishaw, or foodie tour, Chinatown is particularly lively and photogenic during one of many unique occasions, such as the Lantern Festival and Chinese New Year. Conveniently linked to other inner-city attractions by the MRT metro, Chinatown is additionally the finest place to try genuine cuisine. Hotels tend to be more reasonably priced than people in more fancied regions of Singapore, and a few are inside beautifully converted old warehouses and shopfronts.

7. Little India

Border to the Colonial District in the south and Kampong Glam in the east, the incense fragranced streets, ornate temples, and mouth watering scents provide a distinct atmosphere and unique character. Along the crowded alleys are various temples, as well as a 100 year old mosque, while the main thoroughfare, Serangoon Road, is crowded with tempting eateries. These include `banana leaf eating`, whereby scoops of curries, rice, and lentils are placed on a banana leaf and eaten by hand. Including areas called Jalan Besar, Lavender, and Farrer Park, most lodgings are affordably priced and mid range, and many provide especially good value compared to overly expensive areas elsewhere.

8. 
Kampong Glam

This region is home to thriving Malaysian and, to a lesser degree, Arab communities. It is oddly called ‘Arab Street’ after the main roadway running through. Places worth exploring include the Malay Heritage Centre displaying Malaysian history and culture; the Sultan Mosque, Singapore`s most significant mosque; and Haji Lane, one of the city`s narrowest lanes lined with renovated historic shop houses now housing novel boutiques, trendy eateries, and fashionable tailors. Lodging varies from family-friendly apartment-style suites in high rises to charming boutique hotels. Numerous dining spots offer the type of inexpensive yet tasty Malaysian fare unfortunately overlooked by many visitors.

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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