Where to Stay in Singapore in 2024 → 7 Areas & Hotels

Singapore is one of the most urbanized, diverse, and developed city-states in Asia, and it will surely amaze you, just as it amazed me when I first visited and I came bace numerous times ever since! But now the big question is: where to stay in Singapore? 

Marina Bay is definitely the best spot to stay in Singapore. However, there are 7 areas overall that I will talk about in this post, each with its own vibe and accommodation options. 

I thoroughly researched and compared the hotels and apartments and handpicked the best-rated ones for you so you can choose YOUR ideal place in literally minutes now! 

My Singapore experience:

• Duration: 6 days (last trip, I have been 4-5 times)
• Dates visited: Jan 2024
• Where I stayed: Marina Bay

Quick Picks for Your Stay

If you don’t have time to go through the whole post, here’s the shortlist of the best hotels in Marina Bay, the perfect area for first-time visitors. 

• Best luxury hotel: Marina Bay Sands or The Fullerton Bay
• Best mid-range hotel: Dao by Dorsett
• Best budget hotel: Wink

Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:

Here’s a map of Singapore to help you visualize all the areas I’ll be talking about.

1. Where to stay in Singapore for first-time visitors: Marina Bay
2. Best place to stay for an authentic experience: Chinatown
3. Top area to stay in Singapore on a budget: Little India
4. Where to stay for shopping: Orchard Road
5. Best place to stay for nightlife: Clarke Quay
6. Where to stay near Universal Studios: Sentosa Island
7. Best areas for foodies: Kampong Glam & Bugis

1. Marina Bay – best area for first-time visitors

If you want to be astounded by fabulous skylines, rooftop pools, world-class hotels and restaurants, and high-quality entertainment in Singapore, Marina Bay is the place to be!

That is where you can walk around the world-famous Gardens by the Bay (and snap many pics of the Supertree Grove)! 

You’ll also find the Central Business District in this area, so don’t miss taking a picture at the SkyPark Observation Deck!

Let’s not forget about the ArtScience Museum (the one in the famous Lotus Flower) or Merlion Park, where you can see the symbol of Singapore – a half-lion, half-fish statue called ‘Merlion’! 

If you want to see the scoop on all the things you can do in Singapore, here is our post with the full lowdown.

NOTE: with the exception of Marina Bay Sands Hotel, the most recognized hotel in the country (largely due to the famous infinity pool), the rest of the hotels I am recommending are in the surrounding area, as close to Marina Bay as possible.

Luxury (US$350 and up)

• Marina Bay Sands – one of the top hotels in Singapore, with a rooftop infinity pool, 20 restaurant options, and a cool, modern casino. The hotel is centrally located near the Gardens by the Bay, and the rooms provide all the facilities you may need!
• Raffles – another iconic boutique hotel in downtown Singapore! The Raffles opened in 1887, and it’s one of the few 19th-century hotels in the world that are still open! Guests can use butler services and go on a historical tour offered by the hotel. 
• The Fullerton Bay Hotel – one of the best luxury hotels with rooftop pools in Singapore and a bar where you can relax and admire the view of the city. Each room boasts an elegant design and provides access to luxury amenities.

Mid-range (from US$200 – US$350)

• Dao by Dorsett – this hotel has elegant rooms, an incredible swimming pool with some of the best views of the skyscrapers, and a fitness center. You can order room service if you’re too tired, but there’s also a restaurant you should definitely visit!
• Pan Pacific Singapore – relax under a cabana by the pool or enjoy a meal at one of the 6 on-site restaurants. The hotel is centrally located, so you’ll be minutes away from the main attractions. Still, spa services can easily fill your entire day if you want to stay in.

Budget (up to US$200)

Marina Bay is a luxurious destination, so it’s a bit hard to find budget accommodations in the area! These 2 great options are not in Marina Bay but are very close to it. 

• KINN Capsule Hotel – isn’t this the cutest capsule hotel ever?! It’s neat and modern, with air-conditioned shared rooms and cabins with privacy blinds. There is also a shared lounge, sun terrace and free Wi-Fi.
• hipstercity hostel – stylish design and comfortable hostel with a private room, a shared lounge, and a kitchen. Each room has bath amenities, a USB socket, and high-speed Wi-Fi. 

2. Chinatown – for an authentic experience

As you might expect, Chinatown is a colorful, vibrant, and diverse neighborhood in the city, where different people, religions, and cultures meet to create harmony and provide an authentic and unaltered Asian experience! 

Besides walking along the colorful streets of Chinatown, you have to stop for a delicious (and cheap) Asian meal at the numerous food stalls and check out Liao Fan Hawker Chan – the first street stall to get a Michelin star!

Other interesting attractions are the oldest Chinese temple in the city, Thian Hock Keng Temple, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, and the Masjid Jamae mosque.

If you decide to make this unique neighborhood your base during your stay in Singapore, below are the hotels I recommend.

Luxury (US$180 and up)

• Parkroyal on Pickering – one of the most gorgeous 5-star hotels in Chinatown awaits you with an outdoor pool, spa, and a gorgeous garden! Their restaurant serves delicious food, and in the evenings, you can party at the Orchid Club lounge!
• Mondrian Singapore Duxton – all the rooms and suites at this hotel offer breathtaking views of the city, and guests are granted access to the 4 hotel restaurants. For maximum enjoyment, take a plunge in the pool at sunset and watch the city light up.

Mid-range (from US$90 – US$180)

• Scarlet Singapore – this is one of the best mid-tier hotels in Chinatown. The boutique-style rooms are simply gorgeous, clean, and nicely decorated! The rooftop restaurant and outdoor pool are a great bonus for an unforgettable stay in the city! 
• Heritage Collection – a modern and chic accommodation where you can relax and rest before heading out to explore! Just a 5-minute walk from the Chinatown metro station, this hotel offers rooms with a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities.

Budget (up to US$90)

• The Bohemian – my first recommendation for cheap hotels in Chinatown. This accommodation has a great games room and a shared lounge where you can connect and make friends with other people! The rooms are nice and tidy and have a shared bathroom. 
• Cube Boutique Capsule Hotel – offering family rooms with private and shared bathrooms, this budget hotel is super modern! You’ll have access to a shared lounge where you can watch TV or play video games. The rooms also have air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.

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3. Little India – where to stay in Singapore on a budget

If you want to stroll through colorful shops and buildings and be enticed by exotic smells and traditional music, then Little India is the perfect corner of the city!

When you first step into Little India, Singapore’s Indian neighborhood, you might have the feeling you have stepped into another country. At least that is how I felt – we were pretty much the only non-Indians when I stayed in the area the last time. 

This lively neighborhood is full of colorful houses, delicious smells of curry cooking, and shops that sell traditional Indian spices, fabrics, and more!

Some activities in Little India include an authentic, inexpensive shopping experience at Mustafa Shopping Center (open 24/7), a walk on the main street of the neighborhood (Serangoon Road), and, of course, the Hindu temple in the city – Sri Mariamman Temple!

Little India is also a great place for budget travelers and backpackers, as you will find many cheap accommodations and hostels here, but there are expensive hotels as well. 

NOTE: Just FYI – there are not many western breakfast options for breakfast around (all the restaurants are, guess what.. Indian), so if your hotel does not include breakfast, you may need to plan taking it in the center.

Luxury (US$150 and up)

• Citadines Rochor – a stunning hotel that has a modern design and all the amenities you need! Admire the city views from the ceiling-to-floor windows and fix something up for yourself in the kitchenette if you don’t want to hit the restaurants!
• Wanderlust – housed in a heritage property from the 1920s, this hotel has all the modern amenities and a lovely Art Deco interior. Guests can turn to the concierge for anything they need or simply enjoy their time in the garden by the pool.

Mid-range (from US$80 – US$150)

• Aqueen Heritage Hotel – the rooms at this 3-star hotel are clean and tidy, and the private bathrooms are equipped with everything you may need for a pleasant hotel stay. Plus, it’s close to an MRT station, so it offers easy access to the rest of the city!
• Hilton Garden Inn – chill by the outdoor swimming pool and enjoy the city views at this modern hotel. Get settled up in your room, which has a flat-screen TV and air conditioning, and order some room service if you don’t feel like going out!

Budget (up to US$80)

• Adamson Lodge – this is my first budget recommendation in Little India. Close to many attractive destinations and an MRT station, this lodge has various types of rooms fit for 1, 2, or even 6 people. Plus, you get free Wi-Fi!
• ST Signature Jalan Besar – this adults-only hotel specializes in overnight stays. Guests can stay for 13 hours and enjoy various amenities like Wi-Fi, digital TV, and air conditioning. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and each has a private bathroom.

4. Orchard Road – best area for shopping

Orchard Road is a famous 2.5-km (1.6-mile) road in Singapore where you can shop until you drop in amazing stores for every taste – from high-end designer shops to small, inexpensive ones.

Besides being Singapore’s shopping core, Orchard Road is also the place where you will find a wide range of hotels for different tastes and budgets. Of course, there are also many great food and entertainment options! 

Too much shopping didn’t hurt anyone, but if you find yourself a bit too tired and want to see other attractions, I recommend visiting the National Museum and the beautiful National Orchid Garden. 

Luxury (US$250 and up)

• Four Seasons Hotel Singapore – this beautiful 5-star hotel has spacious, sunny rooms and world-class service that will make you feel amazing. During your stay, you can benefit from spa treatments, use the 24-hour gym, or even play tennis.
• The Quincy Hotel – a gorgeous 4-star hotel in Orchard Road located only 5 min away from Orchard Boulevard, the renowned shopping street. One of the best parts of this hotel is the infinity glass pool, which offers an amazing view over the city!

Mid-range (from US$140 – US$250)

• Yotel Singapore – a great Orchard Road hotel with accessible prices. The in-house restaurant serves delicious food, and you can relax in the outdoor pool after exploring the city. All rooms have a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and a seating area.
• Holiday Inn Express – enjoy the free breakfast at this cool hotel that also has a fitness center and a bar. There’s a small garden with a terrace where you can relax after a day of sightseeing, or go up to your comfortable room if you need some privacy!

NOTE: unfortunately, there are no budget-friendly hotels I could find in Orchard (and I really tried!), but don’t worry! You can always stay at The Bohemian Chic or at the Cube Boutique Capsule Hotel close by in Chinatown!

5. Clarke Quay – where to stay in Singapore for nightlife

Clarke Quay is a great spot for people who want to enjoy the wild part of the city and its nightlife scene. 

Clarke Quay is close to the riverside and it’s also the place where you’ll find countless awesome pubs, clubs, and bars. Whether you want to enjoy one cocktail or dance until the sun goes up, you’ll surely find something for your taste here!

If you want a classic ‘night-out’ experience, get a drink at Yin Bar and order one of the signature cocktails (hint: Wednesday is Ladies’ Night)!

The best shots in town are served at Chupitos, Singapore’s first-ever shooter bar.

When you’re not out and about partying, you can visit the Asian Civilizations Museum and the National Art Gallery. There is also the Fort Canning Park, where you can just sit and relax! 

Take a moment to just walk around the area, admire those stunning views of the Singapore River and take it all in! You’re pretty lucky if you’ve got the chance to visit it!

Luxury (US$200 and up)

• Paradox Singapore Merchant Court – with an outdoor pool, a spa tub, and a separate kids’ pool, this 4.5-star hotel will ensure a comfortable stay. You can spend the day at the on-site shopping mall or sign up for an aerobics class in the 24-hour gym. 
• Heritage Collection on Boat Quay – a conveniently located digital hotel where you can self-check-in with your mobile phone – quick and easy! Guests can use the complimentary laundry services as well as the kitchenette containing the necessary amenities.

Mid-range (from US$100 – US$200)

• Park Regis Singapore – this boutique hotel is another great option as well, located only a short walk away from the Singapore River! It offers 4-star service and everything you might need for a pleasant stay in this part of the city!
• The Quay Hotel – a hotel that offers excellent value for the money! It’s only a short walk away from the main attractions, it has a 3-star service, and the rooms are very cute and clean. Plus, it also has an on-site restaurant!

Budget (up to US$100)

• KINN Capsule Hotel – I love how modern this capsule hotel is! All the elements are super futuristic, and the cabins have air-conditioning! There’s also a lounge area where you can chill and a sun terrace.
• RadZone Hostel – all rooms in this hostel are air-conditioned and have free Wi-Fi. Guests can also spend some leisure time in the shared lounge and leave their belongings in luggage storage while they’re out exploring the city.

6. Sentosa Island – where to stay near Universal Studios

If you’re visiting Singapore with your family and kids and wondering if there is an area that’s particularly kid-friendly – it’s definitely Sentosa Island. 

A small island in the Southern part of Singapore, Sentosa Island offers a variety of activities, from strolling on the white sand beaches to admiring the landscape from a cable car.

There is the biggest oceanarium in the world, the S.E.A. Aquarium, and many theme parks, including Universal Studios Singapore and the Adventure Cove Waterpark.

PRO TIP: if you want to save some dollars on your visit to Universal Studios, read our article on how to find cheap Universal Studios tickets. 

Other great ways to spend your time in Sentosa are visiting Madame Tussauds Singapore Museum and riding on the Skyline Luge Sentosa. Below, you can find the Sentosa Island hotels that I recommend, but unfortunately, there aren’t any budget hotels worth recommending, as it is mostly a luxurious destination.

UPDATE: I recently stayed near Harborfront station – it is right in front of Sentosa and has plenty of green spaces around. It is much quieter, less touristy and very green. A great area to consider if you are traveling with kids!

Luxury (US$300 and up)

• The Barracks Hotel – the hotel offers concierge services and luggage storage, as well as free private parking for guests who arrive by car. Some of the luxury amenities include the use of an outdoor pool and a spa, room service, and currency exchange.
• W Singapore Sentosa Cove – one of the top Sentosa island hotels, with a great pool, spa, and fitness center. You can use the shuttle services to get to the most important attractions, including Universal Studios! Plus, you have 4 dining options!
• Shangri-La’s Rasa Singapore – within walking distance of the beach and Universal Studios Singapore, this family hotel has an outdoor pool, spa, and fitness center. Each room has a private balcony with fantastic views! Also, the all-day buffet is delicious!

Mid-range (US$160 – US$300)

• Village Hotel Sentosa – a 4-star hotel where all the rooms have air conditioning, Wi-Fi access, and private bathrooms. There are two outdoor pools and a cute playground for the kids, and the staff is friendly and always eager to help. 
• Oasia Resort Sentosa – as a guest, you can use the laundry/dry cleaning services provided by the hotel, the 24-hour gym, and the full-service spa center. There’s also an outdoor pool, and the property is smoke-free, so it’s a great environment for your family. 

Budget (up to US$160)

Just like Marina Bay, Sentosa Island doesn’t have budget hotels. But I did find 2 fabulous hotels on the HarbourFront, a 30-min walk (5-min car drive) away from all the main attractions on Sentosa Island. This means that you’ll be close enough to all the fun, but far enough for a good night’s sleep – for half the price you’d pay on Sentosa Island itself. 

• Hotel Faber Park Singapore – ever wanted to stay in a brand-new hotel? Now is your chance! Hotel Faber was opened in 2023 and features modern design, spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, free parking, and free Wi-Fi. This is what I call a great value for money!
• Travelodge Harbourfront Singapore – while this hotel may be rated lower than I usually recommend, it’s still a good option considering the scarcity of cheap but decent hotels close to Sentosa. It is clean with comfy rooms, a bar, express check-in/out, and even an outdoor pool.

7. Kampong Glam & Bugis – best neighborhood for foodies

The thrill of visiting a new city is that you get to try all different kinds of food, from traditional to weird dishes that maybe you haven’t even heard of! 

If you’re looking for where to stay in Singapore to do just that, these 2 areas (super close to one another) will be perfect for you!

Known for the Arab Street, these areas are characterized by a palette of colors from the shops, the smell of tea in the air, and the waft of delicious food from the North Bridge Road Market and the Arabic Market. 

If you’re more of a restaurant person, there are plenty of options, too! Book a table at Cappadocia Turkish Restaurant if you want to fill your belly with finger-licking dishes. Choose Tipo Pasta Bar if you want an international cuisine. 

Yep, these 2 areas are the dream for anyone who likes taking pictures! The colorful houses, buildings, and shops will make a stunning backdrop, as well as the Sultan Mosque.

Let’s find the best hotels for you here:

Luxury (US$200 and up) 

• Pan Pacific Serviced Suites – this 5-star condo hotel offers the ideal setting for a luxurious stay! The hotel consists of gorgeous apartments; you’ll also have access to an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and more. 
• Andaz Singapore – fancy a drink by the pool with a stunning view of the City? You got it! You can also enjoy the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows or relax under the rain shower. Then head up to the rooftop bar and witness an epic sunset!

Mid-range (US$100 – US$200)

• Parkroyal Hotel – wake up to stunning views of the city in the comfortable rooms of this modern hotel with a restaurant on site. Grab your coffee, eat some breakfast, and head to the spa for a relaxing day. There’s also a swimming pool – bring a swimsuit! 
• The Sultan – I love the design of this boutique hotel! It’s so unique, and the rooms are super instagrammable! Most attractions in the area are within walking distance, and the accommodation has a terrace and offers free Wi-Fi.

Budget (up to US$100)

• Cube Boutique Capsule – if you’re looking for an affordable hotel in this area, look no further than Cube Boutique! It has so many amenities, including air-conditioning, a library, and a bar. So grab a drink and head to the patio to make some new friends!
• The Pod – another awesome budget hotel that features capsule bedding with personal lockers. The accommodation has free Wi-Fi, and it offers a daily buffet breakfast. You will have access to a shared bathroom and free usage of laptops in the business pods.

👑 Luxury price:	US$250
💵 Mid-range:	US$150
🛏️ Budget:	US$90
📍 Best neighborhood:	Marina Bay
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	Marina Bay Sands
💵 Mid-range hotel:	Dao by Dorsett
👛 Best budget hotel:	Wink Capsule

BONUS 1: Best hotels for families in Singapore

Singapore is unique and diverse and can provide fun activities for all kinds of young people, but it is also a great place for a family vacation!

If you are visiting Singapore with kids, you can find a wide range of amazing, child-friendly hotels scattered all around the city. 

Here are some of the best:

Luxury (US$230 and up)

• Fairmont Singapore – an ideal family accommodation in Singapore. You can choose from different types of rooms depending on the size of your family, but regardless of your choice, you will be greeted with excellent service and friendly and helpful staff! 
• InterContinental Singapore – the rooms are decorated very stylishly, while the rooftop garden is a nice spot to relax and admire the city! Read about my personal experience staying at InterContinental here.
• The Ritz-Carlton – this high-end accommodation has spacious family rooms and an indoor play area. The hotel offers strollers, baby gates, and board games/puzzles free of charge. The kids’ club and babysitting services are offered at a surcharge.

Mid-range (from US$130 to US$230)

• Jen Singapore Tanglin – perfect for families who are searching for a great mid-range hotel. The rooms are spacious and clean, and there are 2 swimming pools on-site, so I’m sure you’ll have a great time with the kids!
• Iyf Funan – enjoy your family trip to Singapore at this sustainable and modern hotel. All rooms are spacious and with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning. Some rooms have a balcony, so you can admire the unique city views from the room!

Budget (up to US$130)

• Blanc Inn – a great option and one of the most convenient cheap hotels in Singapore for a family! This hostel is located within walking distance of the Little India district, and it awaits you with pretty rooms, free Wi-Fi, and shared bathroom facilities. 
• Hotel Classic by Venue – elegant and chic! This hotel will be perfect for your family trip, especially if you’re traveling on a budget. It has family rooms with a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and parking spots.

BONUS 2: Best hotels near Singapore Changi Airport

If you are in Singapore only for a short stay or if you have a very early/late flight, then you may be interested in booking a room near Changi Airport! 

Singapore’s Changi Airport has been voted the world’s best airport for 7 years in a row!!

No wonder why – it is the ultimate travel destination, with stunning architecture, and innovative features like a butterfly garden and free city tours. You can even explore every terminal and enjoy a free massage before your flight!!

If you get tired of all the entertainment options and need some sleep, I got you:

• Crowne Plaza Changi Airport – an amazing 5-star airport hotel, with super stylish and spacious rooms. During your stay, you can relax in the outdoor pool or use the fitness center. Plus, you can choose between 2 restaurants with amazing food!
• Capri by Fraser – relax after a long flight than by spending time by the pool, or enjoying a delicious restaurant meal! Better yet, this hotel is just a 5-minute drive from the airport and offers room service and free Wi-Fi. 

FAQs about Singapore accommodation deals

Conclusion

This was my guide with neighborhood recommendations on where to stay in Singapore and carefully chosen hotels in each. 

I also gave some nice suggestions for great hotels for families traveling to Singapore and airport hotels if you’re staying in the city for a little while.

But if you still find yourself unsure of which hotel to book, here are my top 2 favorite hotels, both located near Marina Bay:

• Marina Bay Sands – an iconic hotel that has an infinity pool and many luxury amenities.
• Dao by Dorsett – a modern hotel with a pool and family rooms.

Singapore is an extremely popular destination, so hurry up and book your stay! And don’t forget to check out my article about the 15 best things to do in Singapore and start writing your itinerary. 

As always, if you have any questions, leave them in the comments below.

Yulia

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