Hotels in Singapore

A Complete Guide to Hotels in Singapore: Everything You Need to Know

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Singapore’s hospitality industry is renowned for its high standards and diverse offerings. The historical background of hotels in Singapore dates back to colonial times, evolving into the modern, cutting-edge establishments we see today. Trends in the hotel industry in Singapore reflect the city-state’s commitment to innovation and excellence. From luxurious resorts to charming boutique hotels and budget-friendly accommodations, Singapore offers a wide range of options to suit every traveler’s preferences and budget.

Luxury Hotels

Singapore’s luxury hotel scene is dominated by renowned international chains that offer unparalleled comfort, service and amenities. Some of the most popular luxury hotels include:

  • Shangri-La Hotels: Offering lavish rooms, world-class dining, and exceptional facilities like the Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore
  • Ritz-Carlton: Known for impeccable service and stunning views, such as the Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore
  • Mandarin Oriental: Providing a luxurious experience with access to exclusive amenities, like the Mandarin Oriental, Singapore located near Marina Bay
  • St. Regis: Featuring butler service and elegant decor, the St. Regis Singapore is a top choice for discerning travelers
  • Raffles Hotel: This historic hotel is steeped in heritage and attracts dignitaries and celebrities from around the world

While luxury hotels come at a higher price point, the experience is well worth it for many guests. Staying at these properties allows access to lavish rooms, world-class dining, exceptional facilities, impeccable service, and stunning views of the city skyline. Many also offer exclusive experiences and amenities that can’t be found elsewhere.

Boutique Hotels

Boutique hotels in Singapore stand out for their intimate atmosphere and unique design elements. These hotels offer a more personalized and customized experience compared to larger chains. The personalized service and attention to detail in boutique hotels provide a memorable stay for guests. Choosing boutique hotels allows travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the city from a different perspective.

Some notable boutique hotels in Singapore include:

  • Naumi Hotel Singapore: A luxurious boutique hotel with a rooftop infinity pool offering sweeping views of the city skyline, personalized service, and stylish rooms
  • KēSa House by The Unlimited Collection: Situated in the heart of Chinatown, this contemporary boutique hotel is housed in a heritage townhouse designed in the 1920s, offering a unique and stylish experience.
  • The Warehouse Hotel: Converted from a 19th-century godown in Robertson Quay, this historic gem combines heritage and modernity, providing a unique stay with locally curated delights and contemporary comforts.
  • The Scarlet Hotel: Housed in a preserved pre-war shophouse in culturally rich Chinatown, The Scarlet Hotel boasts a rooftop restaurant and outdoor hot tub, offering boutique-style rooms with free wireless internet access.

These boutique hotels in Singapore offer guests a chance to enjoy a more personalized and immersive experience, allowing them to explore the city from a different perspective while enjoying unique design elements and intimate settings.

Budget Hotels

Affordable accommodation options in Singapore cater to budget-conscious travelers without compromising on quality. Budget hotels offer essential services and facilities to ensure a comfortable stay at a fraction of the cost of luxury hotels. These hotels are often conveniently located near public transportation and popular attractions, making them an ideal choice for travelers who plan to spend most of their time exploring the city. Tips for finding the best budget hotel deals include booking in advance and utilizing online travel platforms to compare prices and read reviews.

Singapore offers a range of affordable accommodation options that cater to budget-conscious travelers without compromising on quality. Some of the best budget hotels in the city include:

  • Fragrance Hotel – Lavender: Located in the vibrant Little India neighborhood, this hotel provides essential services and facilities at a fraction of the cost of luxury hotels.
  • The Noble Hotel: Offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location near public transportation, The Noble Hotel is a great budget option.
  • Mayo Inn: Situated in the heart of the city, Mayo Inn provides quality accommodations at an affordable price point, with easy access to attractions and public transit.
  • Hipstercity: This budget hotel in the Chinatown area features stylish rooms, essential amenities, and a great location for exploring the city on a budget.

To find the best deals on budget hotels in Singapore, it’s recommended to:

  1. Book in advance to take advantage of early booking discounts.
  2. Utilize online travel platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, and Agoda to compare prices and read reviews from previous guests.
  3. Consider staying in neighborhoods like Little India, Chinatown, or Bugis, which offer a range of budget-friendly accommodations.
  4. Be flexible with your travel dates, as prices can vary depending on the season and day of the week.

By choosing a budget hotel in Singapore, travelers can enjoy a comfortable stay while saving money to spend on exploring the city’s attractions, dining, and shopping.

Best Hotels in Singapore

Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands is an iconic hotel known for its stunning architecture and panoramic views of the Singapore skyline. It features three 55-story towers connected by a 1-hectare SkyPark on the 57th floor.

The hotel offers a wide range of accommodations, from the classic Original Collection to the recently restored Sands Collection and the ultra-luxurious Paiza Collection suites. Rooms start at a spacious 30 square meters and feature floor-to-ceiling windows, flat-screen smart TVs, minibars, and free Wi-Fi.

One of the most famous attractions at Marina Bay Sands is the infinity pool on the SkyPark, which is 150 meters long and spans across all three towers. The SkyPark also features an observation deck with stunning views of the city.

Dining options at the hotel are extensive, with over 45 restaurants including celebrity chef-helmed establishments like Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen and Wolfgang Puck’s CUT. There is also a wide selection of shopping and entertainment options at the adjacent The Shoppes mall. 

Other amenities include a 24-hour fitness center, the luxurious Banyan Tree Spa, a casino, a convention center, and meeting facilities. Club-level guests and those staying in suites enjoy additional perks like complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea, evening cocktails, and personalized butler service.

Marina Bay Sands is conveniently located near top attractions like Gardens by the Bay, the ArtScience Museum, and the Helix Bridge. It offers limousine airport transfers and is easily accessible via public transportation,

Raffles Hotel

Raffles Hotel is one of the most well-known luxury hotels in Singapore, founded in 1887 by the Armenian Sarkies brothers. It is the oldest surviving hotel of its kind on the island.

The hotel is named after Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of Singapore. It has welcomed countless legendary guests throughout its history, including writers, movie stars, dignitaries and royalty such as Rudyard Kipling, Elizabeth Taylor, Somerset Maugham, Ava Gardner, Noel Coward, and Queen Elizabeth II.

The main building, designed in the Neo-Renaissance style, was completed in 1899 and featured modern amenities like electric lights and powered ceiling fans at the time. It is known for its wide verandahs, Palladian windows and tropical architectural elements.

Raffles Hotel was gazetted as a national monument in 1987 and underwent restoration in 2019 to preserve its heritage while adding new amenities and dining options.

The hotel is particularly famous for the Singapore Sling cocktail, created at the Long Bar in 1915. Other signature experiences include the Tiffin Room buffet and the hotel’s luxurious suites and amenities.

Throughout its history, Raffles Hotel has embodied the elegance and charm of the colonial era while adapting to changing times. It remains an iconic landmark and a must-visit destination in Singapore.

The Fullerton Hotel

The Fullerton Hotel Singapore is a 5-star luxury hotel located in a grand neoclassical landmark building that was originally the General Post Office building. The building was constructed in 1928 and played a pivotal role in Singapore’s history for nearly a century.

In 2015, the building was gazetted as Singapore’s 71st national monument, preserving its historical significance. The Fullerton Hotel has since transformed the building into a 400-room heritage hotel, blending modern luxury with the property’s historical charm.

Some of the unique features of The Fullerton Hotel include:

  • Rooftop bar offering stunning views of the city
  • 2Heritage tours that allow guests to explore the building’s rich history
  • Indulgent dining options and a luxury spa, providing a relaxing escape from the bustling city

The hotel’s prime location near the mouth of the Singapore River and in the heart of the Central Business District makes it an ideal base for exploring the city. Guests can enjoy easy access to attractions like the Marina Bay, Merlion Park, and the Esplanade

Overall, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore offers a luxurious and historically significant experience, with its iconic landmark building, unique amenities, and commitment to providing guests with an indulgent and relaxing stay in the city.

Choosing the Right Hotel in Singapore

Location and Accessibility

Here are the key factors to consider when choosing a hotel in Singapore based on location and accessibility:

Proximity to attractions: Look for hotels located near the attractions and areas you plan to visit, such as Orchard Road for shopping, Marina Bay for sightseeing, or Sentosa Island for beaches and theme parks. For one of the best hotels on Sentosa Island click here.

Proximity to public transportation: Choose a hotel near an MRT station to take advantage of Singapore’s efficient and extensive public transportation network. This will save you time and money on commuting compared to taxis or rideshares. 

Popular hotel districts: Orchard Road and Marina Bay are two of the most popular areas for hotels in Singapore. Orchard Road offers a wide range of shopping and dining options, while Marina Bay is home to many iconic attractions like the ArtScience Museum and Gardens by the Bay.

Walkability: Consider how walkable the hotel’s location is to nearby attractions, restaurants, and transportation. Some hotels are conveniently located within walking distance to MRT stations and major sights.

For example, Park Regis Singapore is located just a 3-minute walk from Clarke Quay MRT station and 6 minutes from Chinatown MRT, putting many attractions within easy reach. Dorsett Singapore is located directly above Outram Park MRT station, providing quick access to the city’s commercial and tourist highlights.

Choosing a hotel near public transportation like the MRT will make getting around Singapore much easier and more cost-effective during your stay. Look for hotels in popular districts like Orchard Road or Marina Bay to be close to the action.

Amenities and Services

Must-have amenities that improve the guest experience include:

  • Free Wi-Fi: Reliable, high-speed internet is a priority for most guests
  • Complimentary breakfast: This can be a deciding factor for many guests, especially busy business travelers
  • Air conditioning/heating: Essential for guest comfort, with the ability to control it from their own device being ideal

Additional services that add value to a hotel stay include:

  • Concierge assistance: Helpful with recommendations, reservations, and arranging activities
  • Spa treatments: Indulgent services like massages, facials, and body treatments for relaxation
  • Fitness center: Valuable for guests who want to maintain their workout routine while traveling

Reviews and ratings from past guests provide valuable insights to inform your hotel selection. Positive reviews indicate the hotel delivers on amenities and services, while negative reviews highlight areas for improvement.

When choosing a hotel, consider which amenities and services are most important to you, such as:

  • Location and accessibility
  • Room features like kitchenettes or workspaces
  • On-site dining, bars, and entertainment
  • Recreational facilities like pools and fitness centers
  • Business services and meeting spaces

Prioritizing the amenities and services that matter most to you will help narrow down your options and ensure a comfortable, enjoyable stay that meets your needs and preferences. Hotels that provide the right mix of essential amenities and value-added services will enhance the overall guest experience.

Price and Budget

Determine Your Budget

  • Set a realistic budget for accommodation that aligns with your overall travel expenses and priorities
  • Consider if you are willing to spend more for luxury amenities and services, or if a basic but clean and comfortable room is sufficient
  • Decide if you want to splurge on a few nights in a high-end hotel and stay in a budget hotel for the rest of your trip

Book During Off-Peak Seasons

  • Hotel prices are generally lower during the off-peak seasons of April-May and September-November
  • Avoid booking during major events and holidays when demand and prices are higher

Utilize Loyalty Programs and Discounts

  • Join hotel loyalty programs to earn points and get access to member-only discounts and perks
  • Look for package deals that bundle accommodation with attraction tickets or dining credits
  • Check if your credit card offers hotel discounts or if you qualify for any special rates like AAA or senior discounts

Consider Location Over Luxury

  • Staying slightly farther from the city center can yield significant savings on room rates
  • Look for hotels near public transportation to save on commuting costs
  • Prioritize location and cleanliness over fancy amenities if you are on a tight budget

Book Early and Be Flexible

  • Prices tend to increase as your travel dates get closer, so book as early as possible
  • Be flexible with your travel dates if possible to take advantage of lower midweek or weekend rates
  • Compare prices across multiple booking sites to find the best deal

By setting a realistic budget, booking early, and being flexible with your dates and location, you can find a hotel in Singapore that provides excellent value for your money. Prioritize the amenities and services that are most important to you to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay within your budget.

What are the best times of the year to visit Singapore?

The best times of the year to visit Singapore are during the cooler months of November to January when the weather is less humid and rainfall is lower. During this period, the temperature is slightly higher than in other months, making it an ideal time to explore the city with more comfortable weather conditions.

Singapore is hot and humid throughout the year, making it a year-round destination. However, December to June is generally considered the best time to visit Singapore. February to April is the dry season with lesser rainfall and humidity, offering more sunshine than other times of the year. For beach visits and exploring Sentosa Island, the best time is between June and August. July and August are ideal for shopaholics due to the Great Singapore Sale organized during this period.

July to September is the wet season in Singapore, but despite the rain, these months can still be suitable for a visit as the rains are often sporadic and do not typically last the entire day. Prices might be lower during this period, and there are usually fewer tourists. October to November may see heavier rainfall, but it is still manageable for travelers, although occasional showers might impact outdoor plans.

Overall, the cooler months of November to January offer a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for visitors to Singapore, with lower humidity and less rainfall, making it an ideal time to explore the city and its attractions.

How can I book a hotel in Singapore?

To book a hotel in Singapore, you can follow these simple steps:

  1. Choose a Booking Platform: Visit popular hotel booking websites like Agoda, Booking.com, MakeMyTrip, or Skyscanner which offer a wide selection of accommodations in Singapore
  2. Search for Hotels: Enter your travel dates, number of guests, and preferred location in Singapore to browse available hotels. You can filter results based on price, star rating, amenities, and guest reviews to find the best match for your preferences
  3. Compare Prices: Compare prices across different booking platforms to ensure you are getting the best deal for your stay. Look for special offers, discounts, and promotions that may be available for your travel dates
  4. Read Reviews: Check guest reviews and ratings for the hotels you are interested in to get insights into the experiences of past guests. This can help you make an informed decision about the quality of the hotel and its services
  5. Book Your Stay: Once you have selected a hotel that meets your criteria, proceed to book your stay online. Enter your payment details and confirm your reservation. Many booking platforms offer secure payment options for a hassle-free booking process

By booking a hotel in Singapore online through reputable travel websites and hotel booking platforms, you can easily compare prices, read reviews, and secure your accommodation with just a few clicks. This convenient and efficient process allows you to find the perfect hotel for your stay in Singapore.

What are some popular attractions near the top hotels in Singapore?

Here are some popular attractions near the top hotels in Singapore:

Marina Bay Sands:

  • Located near the iconic Marina Bay, home to attractions like the ArtScience Museum, Gardens by the Bay, and the Helix Bridge

Raffles Hotel:

  • Situated in the heart of the city, close to the Singapore River and the Esplanade Performing Arts Center.

The Fullerton Hotel:

  • Within walking distance of Merlion Park, the Esplanade, and the Singapore Flyer

These top hotels in Singapore offer convenient access to key attractions, allowing guests to explore the city’s landmarks and cultural sites with ease. Whether it’s enjoying the stunning views at Marina Bay, immersing in the historical charm near Raffles Hotel, or experiencing the iconic Merlion Park near The Fullerton Hotel, guests can enjoy a diverse range of attractions within close proximity to these renowned accommodations.