Are you wondering where to stay in Singapore? Look no further! This ultimate guide covers the most popular neighborhoods in Singapore, along with our top hotel picks for every budget.
Singapore is a short flight from the US, Europe, or Australia and is the least “Asian-looking” of all Asian countries. You’ll find that radio hosts speak English, and cab drivers will insist you wear your seatbelt. However, the prices are comparable to those back home.
As you delve deeper into Singapore, its ethnic diversity, charm, and variety become more apparent. Singapore, a small island-state, offers a range of unique neighborhoods and accommodations, making it difficult to decide where to stay.
Singapore’s diverse neighborhoods feel like different countries and cultures. From the vibrant and colorful Little India to the hipster vibe of Kampong Glam, the massive shopping malls along Orchard Road, the futuristic Marina Bay with its luxurious buildings, the nightlife in the Quays, the Colonial District, and Sentosa Island with Universal Studios, there’s something for everyone.
After completing our studies in Australia, Singapore was our first stop. We visited the city on our way to Norway and were immediately captivated by its energy. Since then, Singapore has become a regular destination whenever we travel in Asia. Bus services like KKKL Bus and Transtar Travel Pte Ltd provide excellent connectivity to Singapore from Malaysia.
To plan your trip in advance, you can book tickets on bus ticketing sites like redbus.sg.
Our curiosity about Singapore has always driven us to explore more. We didn’t want to rely solely on past experiences, as things change quickly. So, we flew to Singapore for a month and explored the city like it was our first time.
The result is this guide filled with hidden gems we discovered in Singapore. We’ve listed our favorite places and why we love them, along with top-end, budget, and mid-range hotels in each region.
In February 2024, we visited Singapore again to update our guide on the best hotels and tourist areas. We wanted to see if our old favorites still lived up to our expectations. We also found new favorites, including the newly popular Katong area among tourists.
What to Do in Singapore
Singapore offers a variety of accommodation options. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel that stands the test of time, a boutique hotel with a personalized touch, an affordable guesthouse, or a midrange hotel at a great price, there’s something for everyone.
While Singapore is the most expensive city in Asia and has been ranked the world’s most expensive place to live for five consecutive years, you don’t have to worry about hotel costs. This guide will show you some affordable options.
We have personally stayed at the hotels we recommend, and we’ve also included suggestions from trusted sources.
Singapore’s 9 Best Areas to Stay
Singapore is a small nation (728.6 km²) with nearly 6 million inhabitants from all over the world. Each neighborhood is unique, reflecting the culture of its residents.
Where you stay can influence whether the attractions you want to visit are within walking distance and if you have a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby. Singapore is easy to navigate, whether you choose public transport like metros and buses or opt for Grabs/taxis.
Here’s our list of the top nine places to stay in Singapore (Updated for 2024):
- Orchard Road Area
Singapore’s main shopping district, lined with modern, massive shopping malls. You can walk to all the main attractions from here, and it features some of the most popular international hotel chains. - Colonial/Historic District
Home to many old colonial buildings, art galleries, and museums. Raffles Hotel, one of Singapore’s most luxurious hotels, is located here. - Marina Bay Area
Marina Bay Sands, a shopping center and hotel shaped like a ship, is an iconic sight. Stay at the futuristic, luxurious Marina Bay Sands Hotel if you can—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. - Chinatown
A unique historical area in the CBD, Chinatown offers a mix of Chinese architecture, shops, cafes, high-rises, and other attractions. There are many upscale and midrange hotel options available. - Bugis & Kampong Glam
Singapore’s hippest area, filled with coffee shops, restaurants, and cafes. You’ll also find budget-friendly hotels and hostels here. - The Quays Area
Singapore’s canals, rivers, and restaurants make this the center of nightlife in the city. It’s a fantastic area with great hotels and an exciting nightlife scene. - Little India
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy delicious Indian food. This area offers affordable hotels and hostels. - Adventure Cove Waterpark
Adventure Cove Waterpark in Singapore offers thrill rides, such as high-speed slides and a lazy river. Visitors can snorkel in the colorful coral reef or try a wave pool. It is an ideal destination for families and adventurers who are looking to have a good time. - Katong
Katong is known for its beautiful shophouse architecture, cozy cafes and restaurants, a seaside park, and excellent hotels. The area is also well-connected by MRT.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler to Singapore, this guide will help you find the perfect place to stay and explore this dynamic city.