Looking for where to stay in Singapore? We got you. Singapore is one of the best cities in the world, or at least that’s our humble opinion.
Singapore is a vibrant city-state known for its impeccable cleanliness, efficient infrastructure, and harmonious blend of cultures. Despite its smaller size, Singapore is packed with wonderful things to do and makes it an unforgettable destination to travel to.
It is renowned for its impressive skyline integrated perfectly with nature, including iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and the Gardens by the Bay. And those looking to do some shopping can rejoice, with numerous luxurious malls and bustling street markets you’re in for a treat. Foodies flock to Singapore to savor its diverse culinary offerings, ranging from mouthwatering street food to Michelin-starred restaurants (and even hawker stalls).
It’s also easy to get around, Singapore is known for its efficient transportation system – which makes picking places to stay in Singapore even easier due to its small size and easy transportation! But, just like planning a trip anywhere, it takes alot of research to make an informed decision for the best area to stay, and that’s why we’ve created this guide, to help you pick where to stay in Singapore based on your interests, needs, and budget!
Also, be sure to check out our guide for the best places to visit in Singapore for your trip.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.
Best Areas to Stay in Singapore
Orchard Road
Orchard Road is a great place to stay in Singapore thanks to its world-famous shopping and beautifully manicured streets. This is one of the most luxurious areas to stay in Singapore as it serves as the primary premier retail district where you can find upscale malls, boutiques, and designer stores.
Orchard Road is the main thoroughfare and a paradise for shoppers.
This is also one of the best places to stay in Singapore if you’re wanting to stay in a high-end hotel or be near some of the best higher-end restaurants and entertainment options.
Just taking a stroll down Orchard Road is an amazing experience and you can see why this is one of Singapore’s most in-demand neighborhoods. Everything you could possibly imagine or need is here along with lovely architecture that is both futuristic, and charming, and the blend of Singapore’s natural beauty is present.
With its central location, excellent transport links, and an abundance of leisure and retail options, Orchard presents a prime choice for visitors looking to indulge in a cosmopolitan lifestyle and explore the best of Singapore’s shopping and entertainment offerings.
WHO IT’S FOR
Orchard Street is a must-visit for everyone, but it is definitely geared towards people who are looking for more of a luxury stay, a central location or are very interested in shopping.
Orchard Road has cutting-edge everything, from cafés to restaurants, and boutiques this place is heaven for shoppers and where to stay in Singapore for luxury travelers.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
Orchard Road is full of shopping, so much so that you could spend days without even stepping foot in the same store twice.
Staying in Orchard provides convenient access to popular tourist attractions such as the ION Orchard Mall, Orchard Central, and Ngee Ann City. These landmarks not only offer unparalleled shopping experiences but also house an assortment of dining options, entertainment centers, and art galleries.
But what’s also great is staying on Orchard Road means you are close to tons of great food options, as well as walking distance to the Botanical Gardens, The National Orchid Garden, Fort Canning Park, Ion Sky, the National Museum and a short subway or taxi ride away from activities like Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, China Towns Street Markets, and Singapore Cable Car to name a few.
SINGAPORE TRANSPORTATION
Orchard TE14 & NS22 (Thomson East-Coast Brown Line) & North-South Line
SINGAPORE HOTEL RECOMMENDATION
If you are staying on Orchard Road than you might as well treat yourself and stay at Shangri-La for the ultimate 5-star and luxurious stay. We had the privilege of staying at the Shrangi-La in the Philippines and absolutely loved the property and the brand has a seal of guaranteed quality.
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Marina Bay
One of the most famous places to stay in Singapore is Marina Bay, famously known for the hotel Marina Bay Sands as well. If the name sounds familiar, this is where to stay in Singapore if you’re up for hitting up one of the best infinity pools in the world!
Marina Bay is a renowned neighborhood in Singapore known for its iconic skyline and modern architectural marvels. It offers a mesmerizing blend of luxury, entertainment, and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot to stay when visiting the city with modern luxuries.
The neighborhood is dominated by the magnificent Marina Bay Sands complex, featuring a distinctive hotel, a world-class casino, high-end shopping outlets, and a rooftop SkyPark offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Another popular attraction is the Gardens by the Bay, a stunning nature park showcasing futuristic Supertrees, exotic plant species, and beautiful outdoor gardens. You can also find museums here and you’re close to the famous Merlion Park.
With its spectacular sights, luxurious accommodations, and proximity to key landmarks, Marina Bay promises an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a vibrant and contemporary ambiance.
WHO IT’S FOR
Marina Bay is definitely one of the best places to stay in Singapore for every type of traveler, if not just to see the spectacular light and laser shows held at Gardens of the Bay and Marina Bay Sands every night. This is an area you definitely cannot miss on your trip to Singapore which gives you convenient access to many great attractions.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
You can easily spend days eating and marveling your way through Marina Bay as it has an impressive list of things to do including here at the Marina Bay Sands complex like the Marina Bay Sands Observation Deck.
There are also fun attractions like the Sampan Boat Ride in Marina Bay Sands which takes you through a manmade canal on a Chinese-style boat.
But if you stay in the area it’s a great hub to explore nearby activities like Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Golf Course, Chinatown’s Street Markets are nearby, and Singapore Cable Car and Orchard Road are nearby.
Marina Bay is also home to the Singapore ArtScience Museum, a fascinating institution that combines art, science, and technology in its exhibitions.
Staying in Marina Bay provides easy access to these prominent attractions, as well as the nearby Merlion Park, where visitors can catch a glimpse of the iconic Merlion statue.
SINGAPORE TRANSPORTATION
Orchard TE14 & NS22
SINGAPORE HOTEL RECOMMENDATION
We are going to recommend the iconic hotel here, Marina Bay Sands Resort. Enjoy the views from this luxury 5-star hotel and make sure you don’t miss their insane world-famous infinity pool!
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Clarke Quay
Clarke Quay and the nearby riverside neighborhood is a fantastic idea for where to stay in Singapore because it is centrally located between Orchard Road and Marina Bay, both of which are great central areas to stay in Singapore as already mentioned.
It is a great place to stay filled with both a bustling nightlife scene and a place to enjoy some peace and quiet all along the water’s edge. Clarke Quay showcases the best of Singapore’s incredible nightlife, award-winning restaurants, and entertainment options.
Riverside and Robertson Quay, just located a short walk west, has the same, but a more tame and relaxing version which is easy to access if you’re looking to have a more laidback evening.
The area is a blend of financial buildings, old colonial-style shops, and impressive Chinese junks all converted into nightclubs, posh pubs, and restaurants.
WHO IT’S FOR
Clarke Quay is a great neighborhood and a fantastic option of where to stay in Singapore that is definitely great for anyone looking to be near nightlife. It is a bit more posh, so you’re also in a treat for more upscale dining too.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
The area is lined with a colorful mix of restaurants, bars, and clubs, offering a wide range of culinary delights and entertainment choices. Clarke Quay is particularly famous for its bustling nightlife scene, with numerous venues hosting live music performances.
Visitors can also enjoy a scenic river cruise along the Singapore River, which runs through Clarke Quay, providing a picturesque backdrop.
What’s great is Clarke Quay and Riverside are centrally located in between Orchard Road and Marina Bay, so you have access to all the attractions already mentioned like Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands complex, and shopping along Orchard Road. Not to mention all of the Quays are fun to explore!
SINGAPORE TRANSPORTATION
Clarke Quay NE5
SINGAPORE HOTEL RECOMMENDATION
For this area to stay in Singapore, we recommend the Paradox Singapore Merchant Court Hotel as not only do you have a fantastic location but this hotel has everything you need for a comfortable stay in Clarke Quay including a pool.
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Civic District
Civic District is where to stay in Singapore if you want to stay in the heart of the city. Civic District is a district known for its important government buildings and heritage landmarks.
The neighborhood is home to several iconic buildings, cultural institutions, and entertainment venues. You’ll also find the iconic Raffles Hotel here, which is a must-visit even if you’re not staying here! This is where you can get the famous Singapore Sling cocktail, where it was invented and the colonial architecture is worth admiring.
With its concentration of historical, cultural, and governmental landmarks, staying in the Civic District allows visitors to immerse themselves in Singapore’s rich heritage and gain a deeper understanding of its past and present.
WHO IT’S FOR
The Civic District is where to stay in Singapore for the person who wants a central location. Walkable to Clarke Quay, Orchard Road, and Marina Bay, this is a great spot for many important landmarks, attractions, and institutions.
The area itself is great for history buffs and just like any other area in Singapore, a great area if you like to shop and eat.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
Just like mentioned above, the location is what makes Civic District such a great choice for places to stay in Singapore. You can easily walk to Clarke Quay, Orchard Street & Marina Bay Sands. All with tons to do.
The iconic Raffles Hotel is a popular attraction here and an elegant property. It’s definitely worth stopping by for a Singapore Sling cocktail at the Long Bar, the birthplace of the iconic drink, although get ready to cough up a hefty price for it, it’s not cheap at $37 Singapore Dollars.
The historic St. Andrew’s Cathedral stands nearby as a prominent religious site, showcasing beautiful architectural details.
The area also houses the majestic National Museum of Singapore, which tells the story of the nation through captivating exhibitions.
The Esplanade, affectionately known as “The Durian” due to its distinctive shape, is a world-class performing arts center that hosts a wide range of concerts and events.
The Civic District is also where you’ll find the Parliament House and the Supreme Court.
SINGAPORE TRANSPORTATION
Orchard EW13 & NS25
SINGAPORE HOTEL RECOMMENDATION
The iconic Raffles Hotel is another one of the best places to stay in Singapore for an elegant and luxurious stay. The hotel itself showcases the beautiful colonial architecture tied to the history of Singapore and has been immortalized in the works of renowned authors such as Somerset Maugham and Rudyard Kipling.
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Chinatown
Chinatown is one of our favorite areas in Singapore! Filled with colorful shophouses along the vibrant Keong Saik Road, great places to eat, and a celebrated spot for its rich cultural heritage, this is a bustling spot to be and one of the best places to stay in Singapore.
Chinatown is renowned for its vibrant street markets, where visitors can explore and shop their way through a myriad of stalls selling a diverse range of goods, from souvenirs and trinkets to traditional Chinese herbs and spices.
The neighborhood is home to historic landmarks and hawker centers where you can find some really great food as well as traditional Chinese eateries.
With its cultural charm, historical landmarks, and culinary delights, Chinatown provides an immersive and rewarding experience for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in Singapore’s Chinese heritage.
WHO IT’S FOR
This is where to stay in Singapore if you’re a food lover or if you’re the type of person charmed by attractive little neighborhoods, the architecture and vibe here are one of our favorite parts of Chinatown and why we chose to stay here during our first visit to Singapore.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
There are so many cool things to see in Chinatown that make this a great option for where to stay in Singapore such as the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, a magnificent structure that houses sacred relics of the Buddha.
Another popular attraction is the Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple adorned with intricate sculptures and vibrant colors.
One of our favorite parts though has to be the food scene in Chinatown! Hawker centers and traditional eateries in Chinatown offer an array of authentic Chinese cuisine, so come hungry!
Go to the Chinatown Complex Market & Food Centre for really great food options, but here is where you’ll find Hawker Chan, a stall that famously had the cheapest Michelin-star meal title for years for their delectable soy sauce chicken noodle dish for $2.50!
We also really loved exploring Keong Saik Road and the colorful shophouses here. Papa Doble Singapore is a really cool speakeasy worth checking out here too.
SINGAPORE TRANSPORTATION
NE 4 & DT 19
SINGAPORE HOTEL RECOMMENDATION
We stayed at Hotel 1929 conveniently located on Keong Saik Road one of the most happening areas of Singapore. We absolutely loved the location, decor, and view of these old colonial homes. Even though the rooms are more compact, they are expertly designed to feel like spacious rooms complete with a cute balcony overlooking this amazing area. Check out our review of Hotel 1929 to see for yourself.
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Sentosa Island
Sentosa Island is an island that was built for fun and recreation. Think of an island that has beaches and theme parks and where to stay in Singapore for any thrill seekers or amusement park junkies. It’s a great spot for any form of leisure.
Known for picturesque beaches, this is where you can enjoy a bit of sun and sand. There are also really beautiful luxurious resorts here. It offers a perfect escape from the bustling city.
With its beautiful beaches, thrilling attractions, and high-end accommodations, Sentosa Island offers a diverse range of experiences and serves as a delightful spot for a memorable vacation in Singapore.
WHO IT’S FOR
This is where to stay in Singapore if you have a family or are looking for a luxurious resort near the beach. This is the ultimate destination for families, amusement park seekers, and people just looking to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The island is dotted with upscale resorts, providing guests with a luxurious and pampering stay for those looking to get a bit of R&R on their visit.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
Getting to Sentosa Island requires a little planning. You can take an exhilarating cable car or boat to get to Sentosa Island!
The area boasts pristine sandy beaches, such as Siloso Beach and Palawan Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy a relaxing time at the beach.
Sentosa is home to popular tourist attractions like Universal Studios Singapore and the S.E.A. Aquarium, one of the largest oceanariums in the world. You can also find Adventure Cove Waterpark here for more fun water and thrill-seeking activities!
Adventure seekers can also indulge in activities like ziplining, indoor skydiving, and Segway tours.
SINGAPORE TRANSPORTATION
Harbourfront NE1 & CC29, Sentosa Cable Car
SINGAPORE HOTEL RECOMMENDATION
Staying on Sentosa Island gives you a few options for luxury resorts and hotels. We really like the Barracks Hotel Sentosa which is steps away from Palawan Beach and has its own private pool set in a gorgeous garden. The rooms are luxe and modern and you can get a balcony overlooking the lush gardens.
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Little India
Little India is the center of the Indian community in Singapore. Filled with vibrant, multi-colored shophouses, stunning mosques, and temples, and the aroma of some delicious Indian food and aromatic spices at the bustling markets.
If you’re looking for culture-rich areas to stay in Singapore, Little India offers a sensory immersion into Indian culture and is a fascinating spot to explore.
Little India is renowned for its colorful streets, where visitors can explore a treasure trove of shops selling traditional Indian garments, spices, and handicrafts. The area is home to beautiful temples with beautiful architecture.
The neighborhood’s aromatic eateries serve authentic Indian cuisine, from mouthwatering curries to delectable sweets. Little India is a vibrant hub of activity with cultural festivals too.
WHO IT’S FOR
In our humble opinion, this is a must-explore neighborhood and a great place to stay in Singapore that is totally for everyone. If you are a food or culture lover and like to take photos, this area is your cup of tea.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
Little India isn’t as centrally located as some of the other neighborhoods, but you can still get to Sim Lim Square, the City Square Mall, Singapore Art Museum or Bugis Street all by foot. Or take the subway to your next destination.
Beautiful cultural landmarks and temples such as Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple can be found here and offer insights into Hindu customs and rituals.
Check out Mustafa Centre, a bustling 24-hour shopping mall offering a vast array of goods, from electronics and clothing to spices and souvenirs.
And for food, check out the hawker center at Tekka Centre where you’ll find an abundance of Indian cuisine and other vendors selling produce, textiles, and traditional Indian garments. In fact, you’ll want to consider taking a food tour through Little India’s hawker scene.
SINGAPORE TRANSPORTATION
Little India NE7 & DT12
SINGAPORE HOTEL RECOMMENDATION
We stayed at Wanderlust Hotel and absolutely loved our time. During our stay, each floor had a different pop art theme, but they’ve renovated and changed the concept of the hotel since then. While that was fun, the rooms are currently more modern and they still have the same amenities that we loved including a hot tub and restaurant on site.
The location is also spectacular, and for hotels in Singapore, this can be a more budget-friendly option for travelers with an abundance of luxury and high-end hotel options.
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Bukit Timah
Bukit Timah is a ritzy and expensive neighborhood and where to stay in Singapore for people looking for a more quiet retreat in Singapore. It’s known for its lush greenery, nature reserves, and known for its relaxing ambiance.
Bukit Timah offers a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle and bustle, making it one of the most desirable picks for where to stay in Singapore if you want a central location that’s also quiet.
Since it is more residential and a larger area, things are a bit more spread out here. Bukit Timah also boasts charming colonial-era bungalows and historic landmarks.
With its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and historical landmarks, Bukit Timah provides a serene and rejuvenating experience for travelers seeking a tranquil escape in Singapore.
Although hotels in the actual neighborhood are limited, the few that are around the area offer a beautiful respite from the city.
WHO IT’S FOR
Bukit Timah is great for people looking for something more quiet. This is also a great area to find something a little more budget-friendly without sacrificing quality.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
Bukit Timah is located near the Singapore Botanic Gardens, The Singapore Island Country Club, as well as its very own nature reserve, the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. This nature reserve is home to Singapore’s highest natural peak and a diverse range of flora and fauna. This is where you can hike and soak in the tropical rainforest.
Another notable attraction is the Rail Corridor, a former railway track transformed into a picturesque walking and cycling path along the tropical flora and fauna.
Historic landmarks include the Bukit Timah Railway Station.
SINGAPORE TRANSPORTATION
Newton DT11
SINGAPORE HOTEL RECOMMENDATION
There are less hotel options here and things are more spread out. But the Park Avenue Rochester hotel is a popular choice, especially for business travelers. What’s nice is that when you remove yourself from the city center, you will find lower hotel rates without losing quality in the space you’re staying in.
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Bugis and Kampong Glam
Bugis and Kampong Glam is Singapore’s Arabic/Muslim quarter and the best spot to shop along the bazaars and markets. There is a huge Hindi influence as well. Both are vibrant neighborhoods and offer a rich cultural heritage with plenty of charming streets to explore.
These areas offer a captivating blend of history, shopping, and diverse culinary experiences, making them excellent spots and options for where to stay in Singapore.
There are plenty of options for shopping through the bazaars and markets in addition to trendy boutiques as well as cultural and religious landmarks. These areas are also known for their colorful street art.
Foodies will enjoy the plethora of Middle Eastern cuisine and Malay dishes that are available all around here too.
With their vibrant markets, historical landmarks, and diverse culinary scene, Bugis and Kampong Glam provide an immersive and dynamic experience for travelers seeking a vibrant and culturally rich time in Singapore.
WHO IT’S FOR
Bugis and Kampong Glam is where to stay in Singapore for the foodies and people who love a neighborhood with a good cultural scene.
This is also a great area to stay in if you’re a budget traveler.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
Bugis and Kampong Glam is conveniently located next to a subway making it easy to get out. It’s also right next to Little India, Singapore Art Museum, Al Gafoor Mosque, and Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple.
Bugis Street Market offers a bustling shopping haven and is renowned for its affordable fashion, accessories, and street food stalls.
Kampong Glam, on the other hand, is famous for its unique blend of Arab and Malay influences. You can explore the iconic Sultan Mosque, stroll along Haji Lane with its trendy boutiques and vibrant street art, and indulge in the area’s many eateries.
SINGAPORE TRANSPORTATION
Bugis DT14
SINGAPORE HOTEL RECOMMENDATION
Since we did mention this is a budget-friendly area to stay in Singapore, it’s worth mentioning a super affordable and backpacker-friendly option at the Cube Boutique Capsule Hotel. Not only is this a great location, but it’s a great value for those looking for a more budget-friendly stay in the city.
While you’ll find many hotels in this area are more affordable than other areas of the city, there are more great options like The Sultan too, this 4-star hotel has an incredible location and more spacious rooms set in a colonial townhouse.
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Airport & East Singapore
This area is mostly residential and located just outside the main hub of Singapore. But it does have 20km of white sandy beaches, parks, great shopping, great restaurants, and access to the airport. One thing to keep in mind, is that this area is more spread out.
Changi Airport is also known as one of the most beautiful and efficient airports in the world with great shopping and on-site activities. Not to mention it’s been voted numerous years as the best airport in the world.
There are parks in the area that offer places to take a nice walk along the coastline, cycle, picnic, or make your way to Pulau Ubin, a nearby island where you can see a traditional village that really doesn’t see alot of visitors.
With its proximity to the airport, recreational options, and modern amenities, staying in East Singapore provides a convenient and enjoyable experience for travelers.
WHO IT’S FOR
We stayed here for a few days and loved it as it really wasn’t that bad of a commute to attractions in the heart of Singapore even though it was more spread out.
This is where to stay in Singapore if you’re on a budget or are looking to get a local feel since this is where so many people live. Beach lovers and business travelers would find this great since it’s close proximity to both the beach and Changi Airport. It’s really easy to get into town from here using local transport.
This is also a great choice if you have an early flight and want to stay near the airport!
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
If you’re staying here take advantage of the coastline, beaches, and parks.
East Coast Park, a popular recreational spot, offers a scenic coastline, cycling paths, and barbecue pits for picnics and is getting closer to Marina Bay.
You can also find the occasional hawker stalls around the parks, we were able to find plenty with great seafood.
Take advantage of visiting areas that aren’t as touristy, like Pulau Ubin, a nearby island that provides a glimpse of traditional village life and rustic cycling trails.
Visitors can enjoy world-class amenities, shopping, and even relax at Changi Airport’s beautiful gardens and entertainment areas. For shopping and dining, there are several malls like Jewel Changi Airport and Tampines Mall, offering a ton of retail shops and restaurants.
SINGAPORE TRANSPORTATION
It really depends on where you end up staying but you’re looking at the Green Line by Changi, perhaps Eunos, Kembangan, Bedok, or Tanah Merah. This area is more spread out so you may need to double check your best options.
SINGAPORE HOTEL RECOMMENDATION
D’Resort at Downtown East is a great option as you have the amenities of a full resort and are steps away from the coastline. Plus it’s easy to get to Pulau Ubin from here. Set in the lush greenery of Pasir Ris Park, there are several room types to enjoy here.
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Best Areas to Stay in Singapore (Post Summary):
- Orchard Road
- Marina Bay
- Clarke Quay
- Civic District
- Chinatown
- Sentosa Island
- Little India
- Bukit Timah
- Bugis and Kampong Glam
- Airport & East Singapore
The best area to stay in Singapore depends on individual preferences and interests. Popular choices include Orchard Road for shopping, Marina Bay for luxury and iconic attractions, and Bugis/Kampong Glam for cultural experiences. Each area offers its own unique charm and attractions to cater to different travelers.
For first-time visitors, Marina Bay is an ideal area to stay in Singapore. It offers iconic attractions like Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands, along with stunning views, shopping, and dining options.
To fully experience Singapore’s highlights, a recommended timeframe would be around 3 to 4 days. This allows enough time to explore major attractions, try local cuisine, visit gardens, and experience the city’s diverse cultural offerings.
Singapore is a walkable city with well-connected streets, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, and efficient public transportation. Many popular attractions and neighborhoods are within walking distance, making it convenient to explore on foot.
The best time to visit Singapore is generally during the months of February to April and November to December when the weather is relatively cooler and there is less rainfall and humidity.
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