Where to Stay in Singapore: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

Singapore is one of the most futuristic and magical cities in the world, famous for its towering skyscrapers, delicious street food, and top notch cleanliness. Singapore is one of the greenest, and yet most densely populated cities in the world, and it has a lot to offer.  

However, deciding where to stay in Singapore isn’t easy as there are so many incredible neighborhoods to choose from. Singapore might be small, but each area offers something unique, from popular shopping districts to scenic waterfronts.

I’ll walk you through the best areas to stay in Singapore, breaking down the highlights of each neighborhood, along with pros, cons, and hotel recommendations. Let’s get into it!

*Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

Overview of Where to Stay in Singapore

Singapore packs a lot into a small space, and its neighborhoods each bring something special to the table. Choosing where to stay depends on your travel style and of course, budget.

Marina Bay offers a luxurious waterfront experience, while Orchard Road is a shopper’s paradise. Clarke Quay and Boat Quay are perfect for nightlife lovers, and Chinatown combines cultural charm with budget-friendly options. Bugis and Kampong Glam, on the other hand, have a trendy vibe with boutique hotels and unique cafes.

It’s worth noting that Singapore is one of the most expensive cities in the world, so picking the right area can make a big difference to your budget. Chinatown is a great choice for affordable accommodations, while Marina Bay caters to those seeking luxury stays.

If you don’t have time to dive into the full guide, here’s a quick list of the best areas to stay in Singapore with their key highlights.

Area	Recommended Hotel
Marina Bay (iconic skyline, luxury hotels, attractions like Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay)	Marina Bay Sands
Orchard Road (shopping, dining, upscale accommodations)	JEN Singapore Orchardgateway
Clarke Quay & Boat Quay (vibrant nightlife, riverside dining, central location)	Paradox Singapore Merchant Court
Chinatown (cultural charm, budget-friendly options, heritage attractions)	Oasia Hotel Downtown
Bugis & Kampong Glam (trendy vibe, boutique hotels, eclectic shops, and cafes)	Naumi Hotel

Map of the Best Areas to Stay in Singapore

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the best areas to stay in Singapore, including our recommended hotels for each area.

How to use this map: This map is fully interactive, so you can move around, zoom in/zoom out, and click on the icons. If you want to see a larger map, click on the bracket in the upper right corner. To see more details and the different layers, click on the tab in the upper left corner. If you want to save it for later, click on the star icon next to the name of the map. Then simply open Google Maps either on your desktop or phone, go to ‘Saved’/’Maps’, and open the map whenever you need it.

Where to Stay in Singapore: Best Areas & Hotels

1. Marina Bay

Marina Bay is Singapore’s most iconic neighborhood, known for its stunning skyline, luxurious hotels, and world-famous attractions.

The main reason to stay in Marina Bay is simply the attractions, as many of Singapore’s most popular tourist spots are within walking distance. That includes the ArtScience Museum, the Singapore Flyer, and the iconic Merlion Statue. 

Marina Bay is also home to the spectacular Gardens by the Bay, where you’ll find the Supertree Grove, the Cloud Forest, and the OCBC Skyway. The waterfront promenade is perfect for evening strolls, and the nightly light and water show at the Gardens by the Bay is a must on every Singapore itinerary.

This area is ideal if you want to experience Singapore’s glitz and glamour. Marina Bay offers some of the city’s most luxurious accommodations, along with fine dining and rooftop bars that provide incredible views.

Marina Bay is where you’ll find the famous Marina Bay Sands Hotel and its stunning rooftop infinity pool. It’s undoubtedly one of the most amazing hotel in Singapore with a view so if you’re looking for the best views in the city, make sure to book a night or two.

The area is also well-connected by public transport, making it easy to explore other parts of the city.

However, Marina Bay is one of the most expensive areas to stay in Singapore. If you’re traveling on a budget, this neighborhood might not be the best choice, as dining and accommodations here can be pricey.

2. Orchard Road

Orchard Road is a shopper’s paradise and one of Singapore’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Lined with luxury malls, boutique stores, and international brands, it’s the perfect spot if you love retail therapy.

Some of the best fantastic shopping spots in the area include TANGS, ION Orchard, Far East Plaza, Mandarin Gallery, and Design Orchard.

Beyond shopping, Orchard Road also offers a great selection of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, making it a fantastic place to explore.

Staying in Orchard Road means you’ll have easy access to the city’s best shopping and dining, along with plenty of public transport options to explore other parts of Singapore.

Accommodations here range from high-end hotels to more affordable options, catering to a variety of budgets. The area is also well-maintained, with tree-lined streets that provide a pleasant environment for walking around.

On the downside, Orchard Road lacks the cultural and historic charm of neighborhoods like Chinatown or Bugis. While it’s convenient and lively, it may not feel as unique compared to other parts of the city.

3. Clarke Quay & Boat Quay

Clarke Quay and Boat Quay are the go-to neighborhoods for nightlife and riverside dining in Singapore. Located along the Singapore River, these areas offer a vibrant atmosphere filled with colorful buildings, lively bars, and an array of international and local restaurants. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy an evening out, with options ranging from casual drinks to upscale dining experiences.

This area is perfect if you enjoy being close to the city’s nightlife and entertainment scene. During the day, you can take a leisurely stroll along the river, visit nearby attractions like Fort Canning Park, or hop on a boat tour for unique views of the city.

Clarke Quay and Boat Quay are also centrally located, making it easy to reach Marina Bay, Orchard Road, and other key neighborhoods.

One drawback of staying here is that it can get noisy, especially in the evenings when the nightlife kicks in. If you’re seeking a quieter environment, this area might not be the best fit.

Additionally, while there are some accommodation options nearby, there’s not a lot to choose from. So if you want to stay in this area, better to book in advance.

4. Chinatown

Chinatown is one of Singapore’s most culturally rich neighborhoods, offering a blend of history, charm, and vibrant street life. Known for its colorful shophouses and traditional markets, this area is a fantastic spot to explore Singapore’s heritage.

Highlights include the Chinatown Heritage Centre, Sri Mariamman Temple, and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. The neighborhood also boasts excellent hawker centers like Chinatown Complex, where you can enjoy delicious local food at affordable prices.

Staying in Chinatown is ideal if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option without compromising on location. The area has a mix of boutique hotels and budget accommodations, making it accessible for travelers who want to save while still experiencing the city’s vibrant culture.

Chinatown is undoubtedly one of the best areas to stay in Singapore for so many reasons, but its location is a huge selling factor. Neighboring the area of Marina Bay, and relatively close to Clarke Quay, Little India, and Orchard Road, Chinatown is a great location for exploring the city and the MRT is also nearby.

One potential downside of Chinatown is its busy nature, especially around the markets, which can feel overwhelming during peak hours. Additionally, it lacks the sleek, modern vibe of neighborhoods like Marina Bay or Orchard Road, so it might not appeal to travelers seeking a more luxurious stay.

5. Bugis & Kampong Glam

Bugis and Kampong Glam are some of the trendiest neighborhoods to stay in Singapore, offering a vibrant mix of history, culture, and modern charm.

Kampong Glam is the historic Malay-Arab quarter, home to iconic landmarks like Sultan Mosque and Haji Lane, a colorful street lined with boutique shops, cafes, and street art. Bugis, on the other hand, is known for its lively shopping scene, with options ranging from Bugis Junction Mall to the eclectic Bugis Street Market.

These areas are perfect if you enjoy a blend of culture and a trendy vibe. Boutique hotels and stylish accommodations are abundant here, making it a favorite among younger travelers and those seeking unique stays.

There’s also no shortage of dining options, from local eateries to hip cafes. Bugis and Kampong Glam are centrally located and well-connected by public transport, making it easy to explore other parts of the city.

While these neighborhoods are vibrant and fun, they may not suit travelers looking for a quieter or more luxurious environment. The hustle and bustle of the markets and nightlife can feel overwhelming at times, and the accommodations lean more boutique than high-end.