Summary
Singapore epitomizes the concept of a cultural melting pot. The presence of four official languages—Malay, English, Mandarin, and Tamil—illustrates the nation’s diversity. The strong Chinese community and the continuously evolving expatriate population contribute to this rich cultural tapestry. Interestingly, Singapore stands as a country, a city, and an island, all in one.
Visitors have numerous compelling reasons to explore Singapore. As a thriving business hub, the city welcomes business travelers at all hours. Its status as a major transport center positions Singapore as a convenient layover point. With layovers sometimes exceeding 24 hours, there is no justification for remaining in the airport terminal; venturing out to discover the city is highly encouraged. Singapore’s public transport system ranks among the world’s most efficient, enabling swift transit to the city center.
In Singapore, there exists a neighborhood catering to every type of traveler. Let’s delve into the best areas to stay in Singapore.
Sentosa
If you are visiting Singapore for leisure, Sentosa is the ideal neighborhood. Positioned at the southernmost tip, it brims with attractions and engaging activities for families.
From the palm-fringed sands of Palawan Beach to the exhilarating rides at Universal Studios, there is something for every family member to enjoy. While the beaches of Sentosa are indeed man-made, having imported sand from Malaysia, they still exude a sun-kissed, tranquil atmosphere.
Thanks to Singapore’s advanced public transport system, reaching the iconic Marina Bay takes mere minutes. Nonetheless, the abundance of activities in Sentosa will likely keep you within the area for an extended period.
KidZania is an unmissable attraction for families travelling with children, offering a uniquely immersive experience.
Suitable For: Active Travelers, Beach Enthusiasts, Families, Fun Seekers, Holiday Travelers, Young Adventurers
Neighborhood Highlights: Palawan Beach, Tanjong Golf Course, Universal Studios Singapore, Tiger Sky Tower, Fort Siloso, Trick Eye Museum, Port of Lost Wonder, Wings of Time, KidZania Singapore
Recommended Hotels:
- Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa – This unique resort features beautiful whitewashed architecture and offers deluxe rooms with garden or sea views. The villas provide a higher level of luxury, many overlooking the swimming pool with outdoor soaking bathtubs.
- La Méridien Singapore, Sentosa – A mere five-minute stroll from the beach, this world-class hotel presents modern luxury accommodation along with exceptional service. Many rooms offer views of lush tropical gardens.
- Siloso Beach Resort – A family-friendly and affordable option, Siloso Beach Resort is located a short walk from Siloso Beach. Its minimalist yet comfortable rooms often provide views of the sunny garden.
Marina Bay
Marina Bay is Singapore’s most iconic neighborhood. For those on brief visits wishing to visit essential highlights, this area is the perfect location.
Surrounded by towering skyscrapers and modern architecture, Marina Bay represents an urban oasis. At night, the spectacle of lights dancing on the water, alongside the hustle of office workers, creates a captivating atmosphere.
This neighborhood is ideal for business travelers, housing a majority of Singapore’s major office buildings, which may result in slightly higher accommodation costs compared to areas like Chinatown.
Food enthusiasts will find a plethora of fine dining options in Marina Bay, featuring modern Indian cuisine, traditional Thai dishes, and Malay-Chinese fusion offerings, presenting a rich culinary landscape.
Suitable For: Active Travelers, Business Guests, High-End Travelers, Urban Explorers, Culture Aficionados, Luxury Seeker, Short Stopover Visitors
Neighborhood Highlights: Gardens by the Bay, ArtScience Museum, Marina Bay Golf Course, Marina Bay Sands Casino, Singapore Flyer, Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay
Recommended Hotels:
- The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia – The most opulent hotel in Marina Bay, The Ritz-Carlton provides five-star service and luxurious accommodations. Many premium rooms boast stunning views of Marina Bay.
- Pan Pacific Singapore – Located conveniently on Raffles Boulevard, just 200 meters from the Convention & Exhibition Centre, this modern hotel is ideal for business travelers with comfortable rooms featuring seating areas and work desks.
- Conrad Centennial Singapore – A luxury five-star hotel, it features a stunning rooftop terrace that provides breathtaking city views, along with a 24-hour front desk for guest convenience.
Clarke Quay
For those seeking nightlife, Clarke Quay is a must-visit—the heart of Singapore’s party scene. The riverside is lined with numerous trendy bars and clubs catering to diverse tastes.
This lively and friendly neighborhood is well-suited for travelers eager to socialize and meet new people, including locals and expatriates alike.
Budget-conscious visitors will also find suitable accommodation options such as hostels. Culinary enthusiasts will delight in the more daring menu choices available at Clarke Quay’s restaurants, presenting an adventurous dining experience.
Suitable For: Adventurous Travelers, Backpackers, Urban Explorers, Food Lovers, Local Experience Seekers, Nightlife Enthusiasts, Young Visitors
Neighborhood Highlights: Numerous Bars & Clubs, Fort Quay Shopping Mall, Fort Canning Flagstaff, Fort Canning Park, Malacca Bridge, Coleman Bridge, Singapore Philatelic Museum
Recommended Hotels:
- Jayleen Clarke Quay Hotel – An affordable option located centrally, Jayleen Clarke Quay Hotel offers rooms with air conditioning and complimentary WiFi, while its decor remains simple and comfortable.
- Swissotel Merchant Court – Just 200 meters from Clarke Quay’s central area, this modern hotel boasts air-conditioned rooms with work desks, flat-screen TVs, and breakfast included.
- Novotel Clarke Quay – Ideally placed just 200 meters from Zouk Nightclub, Novotel features an outdoor swimming pool and fitness center alongside included breakfast buffet.
Little India
Singapore’s multicultural essence is showcased in Little India, a vibrant area dedicated to the Indian community. This neighborhood is particularly appealing to backpackers and budget-conscious travelers eager to immerse themselves in Singapore’s international atmosphere.
Strolling down Serangoon Road without a predetermined itinerary is the best approach, following the enticing aroma of masala wafting through the air. There are various bazaars selling an array of trinkets and souvenirs, alongside numerous local tailors ready to tailor a new wardrobe for you.
Suitable For: Adventurous Travelers, Budget Travelers, Backpackers, Culture Enthusiasts, Food Lovers, Shopping Aficionados, Local Experience Seekers
Neighborhood Highlights: Little India Arcade on Serangoon Road, Little India Bazaars, Curry Houses, Street Art and Sculptures, Various Authentic Indian Restaurants
Recommended Hotels:
- Santa Grand Hotel Little India – Offering cozy and homey accommodations, the Santa Grand Hotel features both double and single rooms, providing ample amenities including air conditioning and free WiFi.
- Aqueen Heritage Hotel Little India – This beautiful establishment incorporates traditional Indian design elements while providing modern amenities, resulting in a charming and comfortable stay.
- Park 22 Hotel Little India – Featuring urban design with modern furnishings, Park 22 is a contemporary hotel equipped with a 24-hour front desk, offering a variety of rooms with ensuite facilities.
Chinatown
As previously noted, Singapore is a vibrant cultural melting pot, with Chinese culture being among the most prominent. Chinatown in Singapore is one of the most active and colorful in the world, offering endless discovery opportunities around every corner.
Beyond the exceptional street-side eateries, visitors will find an extensive market selling everything from popular brands to authentic Chinese fans.
The cultural richness of Chinatown is evident through its numerous temples. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a highlight, featuring a beautiful Tang dynasty temple set within serene gardens where monks chant peacefully throughout the day.
The Thian Hock Keng temple, Singapore’s oldest Hokkien temple, is dedicated to Mazu, the Chinese goddess of the sea, contributing to the area’s cultural heritage.
Suitable For: Adventurous Travelers, Budget Travelers, Backpackers, Culture Enthusiasts, Food Lovers, Shopping Aficionados, Local Experience Seekers
Neighborhood Highlights: Authentic Chinese Restaurants, Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Thian Hock Keng, Masjid Jamae, Chinatown Heritage Centre, Chinatown Complex, Singapore City Gallery
Recommended Hotels:
- Adler Hostel – Centrally located in Chinatown, this affordable option offers single, capsule-style sleeping arrangements, along with immaculate shared bathroom facilities.
- The Scarlet Singapore – A luxurious hotel featuring unique design elements across its rooms, complemented by an extravagant breakfast buffet served in the opulent dining hall.
- The Southbridge Hotel – A simple yet affordable hotel in Chinatown, conveniently located just a short walk from the MRT station, providing themed decor and complimentary bottled mineral water.
Bugis & Kampong Glam
The neighborhoods of Bugis and Kampong Glam have seamlessly integrated, presenting a vibrant destination. Traditionally known as the Arab Quarter, Kampong Glam retains much of its Middle Eastern character, alongside mosques and Arabic-inspired bazaars as well as high-end shopping outlets.
For shopping enthusiasts, Bugis and Kampong Glam serve as prime destinations for unique finds, ranging from exquisite silks to Turkish lamps.
This emerging neighborhood is becoming increasingly popular among travelers. Trendsetters will find themselves in a haven of hipster coffee shops and an expanding selection of upscale cocktail bars, alongside ample craft beer options.
Suitable For: Adventurous Travelers, Budget Travelers, Backpackers, Culture Enthusiasts, Coffee Lovers, Foodies, Shopping Aficionados, Local Experience Seekers
Neighborhood Highlights: Malay Heritage Centre, Masjid Sultan, Masjid Malabar, Singapore Art Museum, Burlington Square Shopping Mall, Sri Krishnan Temple, SAM at 8Q, St Joseph’s Church, Aliwal Arts Centre
Recommended Hotels:
- Hotel Clover 33 Jalan Sultan – Located within a heritage building, this boutique hotel provides both rooms and suites, with many boasting superb city views. Amenities include a fitness center and an onsite restaurant.
- Destination Singapore Beach Road – Offering rooms with panoramic skyline views, this hotel boasts bright, airy rooms with spacious ensuites and complimentary toiletries.
- Aliwal Park Hotel – A budget-friendly option just a five-minute stroll from the Malay Heritage Centre, providing guests with comfortable accommodations along with complimentary amenities.
Tanglin
Tanglin is particularly attractive to long-term travelers, digital nomads, and those wishing to immerse themselves in a more local atmosphere, given its large expatriate community and opportunities for budget-friendly living away from the tourist-centric areas.
For an authentic representation of Singapore, engaging with the local expat community at trendy bars and attending events can enrich your experience. The area is filled with social opportunities ranging from live music to entertaining game nights.
The Singapore Botanic Gardens provides a peaceful escape from the bustling city, with paved trails and beautifully manicured gardens, making it an ideal location for families.
Suitable For: Active Travelers, Digital Nomads, Families, Local Experience Seekers, Trendsetters
Neighborhood Highlights: Singapore Botanic Gardens, Orchard Towers Shopping Mall, Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Museum of Contemporary Arts, Far East Flora @ Queensway, Former Malayan Railways Historical Marker
Recommended Hotels:
- YOTEL Singapore – An ultra-modern establishment situated in Tanglin and Orchard Road, featuring an outdoor pool, a colorful urban design, and ergonomic bedding.
- Orchard Parade Hotel by Far East Hospitality – Offering understated luxury with plush amenities, this hotel features an in-house restaurant and relaxing cocktail bar, along with impressive communal spaces.
- Hilton Singapore – This world-class hotel features an exceptional restaurant serving European-inspired cuisine, alongside splendid leisure amenities such as an outdoor pool and expansive fitness center.
Singapore International Airport
For early morning departures or lengthy layovers, various hotels are conveniently located within a five-minute drive from Singapore’s international airport terminals.
While the public transport connecting the airport to the city center is economical and efficient, at times, travelers may prefer not to wander far after a long journey. Following immigration, the desire to retreat and relax is completely understandable.
Though the airport neighborhood may not be the most visually appealing part of Singapore, it does offer a restful atmosphere and pleasant dining options before the next flight.
If you seek fresh air during your layover, consider visiting Tampines Eco Green Park or Changi Beach Park.
Suitable For: Business Travelers, Short Stopover Visitors, Budget Travelers
Neighborhood Highlights: Airport Layover Hotels, Changi Beach Park, Changi Boardwalk, Tampines Eco Green
Recommended Hotels:
- Ambassador Transit Hotel – Terminal 3 – This hotel offers a variety of room types, catering to different traveler budgets, with options based on six or twelve hour stays available, including access to a fully equipped gym.
- The Haven by JetQuay – Located within Changi Airport Terminal 3, this contemporary hotel provides nap rooms and shared bathroom facilities, with hourly room reservations available, along with complimentary WiFi.
- Aerotel Transit Hotel – Terminal 1 – Known for its luxurious amenities, Aerotel features an outdoor swimming pool and quality fitness facilities while providing flexible room booking options for six or twelve hours.
