The best hotels in Singapore

Choosing from the best hotels in Singapore

Singapore has a hotel for most budgets, but rooms are rarely cheap. Every hotel on this page holds an average rating of 4 stars or more on Google. That still leaves a wide range, from grand 5-star towers to small boutique properties. The sections below help you match a stay to your plans.

Start with location. Singapore is small, and the MRT, the city's metro, reaches most areas. Even so, staying near the sights you care about saves time in the heat. Then decide on style: luxury, boutique, resort or simple value.

Best areas to stay

Marina Bay and the CBD

This is the waterfront heart of the city. Marina Bay Sands has a rooftop infinity pool that is open only to its guests. The Fullerton Hotel Singapore sits in a grand former post office building by the river. Its sister property, The Fullerton Bay Hotel, is on the bay itself. Mandarin Oriental Singapore and The Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore are also close to the Marina Bay sights. See every stay in Marina Bay & CBD.

Orchard Road and Tanglin

Orchard Road is Singapore's main shopping street, lined with malls. Pan Pacific Orchard is a 5-star option just off the main street. Near its western end, the quieter Tanglin area has Shangri-La Singapore, Four Seasons Hotel Singapore and The St. Regis Singapore. See Orchard & River Valley for more choices.

Sentosa

Sentosa is a resort island linked to the main island by road, cable car, monorail and a walking boardwalk. It suits families and anyone who wants a beach-style break. Capella Singapore and Raffles Sentosa Singapore are 5-star resorts. The Barracks Hotel Sentosa is a smaller boutique choice. Expect a longer ride into the city centre.

Beach Road, Chinatown and the heritage areas

Raffles Hotel Singapore is a historic landmark on Beach Road. JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach is in the same area. Chinatown and Tanjong Pagar have many boutique stays, some in restored shophouses. A shophouse is a narrow terraced building with a shop below and living space above. See Chinatown & Tanjong Pagar.

Types of hotel: luxury, boutique, resort or value

• 5-Star Luxury: big pools, several restaurants and full service. Many sit around Marina Bay, Orchard and Tanglin.
• Boutique & Heritage: smaller properties with more character. The Clan Hotel Singapore is a 5-star boutique stay in the CBD.
• Sentosa & Resorts: pools, gardens and room for children to play.
• Value Hotels: simpler rooms at lower rates.
• Serviced Apartments: kitchens and more space for long stays.
• Changi Airport Hotels: handy for late arrivals and early flights.

How to book and what to expect

• Read the price carefully. A rate shown with "++" means service charge and GST, Singapore's goods and services tax, will be added.
• Know rough costs. As a rough guide, value rooms often cost around S$150 to S$300 a night. Many 5-star rooms start from about S$400. Prices change with dates and demand, so check the latest rates.
• Book early for big events. Rates can rise sharply during major events and public holidays.
• Check the room size. City rooms can be compact, especially in older buildings and shophouses. If you need space, look at suites or serviced apartments.
• Ask about the pool. Rooftop pools are a big draw, and most are for guests only.
• Plan your airport transfer. A taxi from Changi Airport to the city centre usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes outside peak traffic. The MRT is cheaper but slower with luggage.
• Travelling as a family? Connecting Rooms vs Family Suite in Singapore Hotels explains the options.

FAQs about hotels in Singapore

Which area is best for a first visit?

Marina Bay and the City Hall area are central and close to many sights. Orchard Road suits shoppers. Marina Bay vs Orchard: Where Should You Stay? compares the two.

What does "++" mean on hotel prices?

It means service charge and GST are not yet included. Both are added to the bill, so the final price is higher than the headline rate.

Do I need to tip hotel staff in Singapore?

Tipping is not expected, since many bills already include a service charge. A small tip for extra help is welcome but optional.

Can non-guests swim in the Marina Bay Sands infinity pool?

No. The rooftop pool is for guests of the hotel. Visitors can buy a ticket to the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck instead for views over the bay.

Are hotel rooms in Singapore small?

Many city rooms are compact. Newer properties and resorts tend to be roomier. Check the room size in square metres before you book.