Rooftop infinity pool overlooking the Marina Bay skyline at sunset

Where to stay

A bed for every kind of trip

From pools in the sky to restored shophouses, here is how to choose where to sleep in the Lion City.

Skyline luxury

Pools in the clouds and bay-view suites

Singapore does the high-rise hotel better than almost anywhere. Expect rooftop pools, sky bars and floor-to-ceiling windows over the harbour.

Why choose it

Marina Bay Sands and its rooftop infinity pool, with views over the whole bay
Waterfront hotels around Marina Bay and Raffles Place, walkable to the main sights
Resort hotels on Sentosa for beaches, spas and theme parks on the doorstep

Insider tip: Pool access at the biggest icons is usually for hotel guests only. If that matters to you, confirm it before you book.

White colonial heritage hotel with arched verandahs and palm trees

Heritage grande dames

Colonial-era charm, verandahs and high tea

A few historic hotels have hosted travellers since the 19th century. They bring deep verandahs, tropical gardens and old-world service.

Where to look

Raffles Hotel, opened in 1887 and home of the Singapore Sling
The Fullerton Hotel, in the former General Post Office by the river
Hotels around the Civic District, close to museums and the Padang

Insider tip: Even if you do not stay, many heritage hotels welcome visitors for afternoon tea or a drink in the bar.

Boutique hotel room in a Peranakan shophouse with patterned floor tiles and teal shutters

Boutique & shophouse

Small hotels in restored shophouses

For character, book one of the many boutique hotels tucked into restored shophouses. Rooms are compact but beautifully designed.

Best neighbourhoods

Chinatown and Tanjong Pagar for cafés, bars and hawker food on your doorstep
Kampong Glam and Bugis for indie shops and easy MRT links
Little India for value, late-night food and colourful streets

Insider tip: Shophouse rooms can be small and some have no lift. Check the room size and access when you book.

Choose your base

Which area suits you?

Singapore is compact and well connected, so any of these is a good base.

Marina Bay
First-timers who want the skyline and an easy walk to the big sights.
Chinatown & Tanjong Pagar
Food lovers who want heritage, hawker stalls and nightlife nearby.
Orchard Road
Shoppers and families who want malls and a central MRT line.
Kampong Glam & Bugis
Cafés, street art and good-value stays close to the city centre.
Sentosa
Beach days, resorts and theme parks on a car-free island.
Near Changi Airport
Early flights or long layovers, with Jewel a short walk away.

Booking tips

Before you book

Book ahead for big events

Rooms fill up and prices rise around the Formula 1 night race, New Year and major conferences.

Stay near an MRT station

The train network is the fastest way around. A five-minute walk to a station saves time and money.

Budget options are good

Capsule hotels and clean, well-run hostels are common, especially in Little India, Bugis and Chinatown.

Check what is included

Taxes and a service charge are often added on top of the displayed room rate.

Stay sorted? Plan the rest.

Build your days around the places you will be sleeping near.

Plan your trip