Where to Stay in Singapore: Best Luxury Hotels

Where to stay in Singapore, Singapore — the best hotels and luxury neighbourhoods, reviewed on the ground, with dining and how long to go for. No sponsored placements.

Where to stay in Singapore: the best hotels and neighbourhoods

Discover a futuristic garden city where diverse cultures converge amidst stunning architecture and exquisite dining.

Singapore, a dazzling island nation, epitomizes modern luxury and innovation. This futuristic garden city seamlessly blends lush tropical greenery with soaring skyscrapers, offering an array of world-class attractions from award-winning dining to architectural marvels. Discover a harmonious melting pot of cultures, promising an experience of refined elegance and endless exploration.

• Location: Singapore, Singapore
• Region: Southeast Asia
• Recommended length of stay: 4–5 nights
• Best time to visit: February-April (least rainfall, pleasant temperatures) or July-August (shopping festivals, vibrant events).

Best neighbourhoods to stay in Singapore

Marina Bay

Iconic, Modern, Luxury, Architectural. Best for Iconic landmarks, stunning views, high-end experiences. Where to stay: Witnessing the Spectra light and water show at Marina Bay Sands.

Civic District & Colonial Core

Historic, Elegant, Cultural, Green. Best for History buffs, art and culture, grand colonial architecture. Where to stay: Exploring the National Gallery Singapore and its art collections.

Tiong Bahru

Charming, Hip, Retro, Culinary. Best for Quaint cafes, independent bookstores, authentic hawker food. Where to stay: Browsing design shops and enjoying coffee at a chic cafe.

Kampong Glam

Bohemian, Malay Heritage, Vibrant, Unique. Best for Boutique shopping, Middle Eastern food, street art. Where to stay: Admiring the majestic Sultan Mosque and exploring Haji Lane.

Where to eat near your hotel in Singapore

• Odette — Modern French — $$ — The 'Rosemary Smoked 55° Confit Egg', a true classic and highlight.
• Burnt Ends — Modern Australian BBQ — $$ — The 'Sanchoku Wagyu Striploin' and 'Smoked Quail Egg with Caviar'.
• Lau Pa Sat Hawker Centre — Local Singaporean — $ — Satay from the street-side vendors (available after 7 PM), chilli crab, Hainanese chicken rice.
• Candlenut — Modern Peranakan — $$ — Ayam Buah Keluak (chicken with black nut) and their exquisite Kueh Pie Tee.

Local intel: what to do in Singapore

• Experience the 'Supertree Grove' at Gardens by the Bay during the evening light show for a truly magical spectacle.
• Explore the Tiong Bahru neighborhood for its charming pre-war architecture, independent bookstores, and fantastic cafes.
• Take a Bumbo boat ride along the Singapore River for a different perspective of the city's iconic landmarks.
• Visit a hawker center (like Newton Food Centre or Maxwell Food Centre) for affordable and authentic local cuisine.
• Indulge in a classic Singapore Sling at the Long Bar in Raffles Hotel, a timeless experience.

A 4–5 nights plan for Singapore

Day 1

Morning: Explore the futuristic Gardens by the Bay, including the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome. Afternoon: Ascend Marina Bay Sands Skypark for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Evening: Witness the 'Spectra' light and water show at Marina Bay Sands, followed by dinner in the area.

Day 2

Morning: Immerse in culture in Chinatown, visiting Sri Mariamman Temple and exploring vibrant markets. Afternoon: Stroll through the charming streets of Little India, absorbing its sights, sounds, and aromas. Evening: Enjoy an authentic hawker center experience at Lau Pa Sat, savoring local delights like satay and chilli crab.

Day 3

Morning: Discover the art and history at the National Gallery Singapore and the grand colonial architecture of the Civic District. Afternoon: Relax and unwind at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site, focusing on the National Orchid Garden. Evening: Indulge in a world-class gastronomic experience at a Michelin-starred restaurant like Odette or Burnt Ends.

Getting around Singapore

Singapore's public transport system (MRT and buses) is one of the best in the world – clean, efficient, and extensive. Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Grab) are also readily available and reasonably priced. The city is very walkable in designated areas.

Travel tips for international visitors to Singapore

• Best time to visit: February-April (least rainfall, pleasant temperatures) or July-August (shopping festivals, vibrant events).
• How long to stay: 4–5 nights
• Local currency: Singapore Dollar (S$)
• Language: Learn 'lah' – a versatile Singlish particle used at the end of sentences for emphasis. E.g., 'Confirm can, lah!'

What to skip in Singapore

• Jaywalking – fines are hefty and strictly enforced.
• Chewing gum in public – it's banned in Singapore except for therapeutic purposes.
• Ignoring queues – Singaporeans are very orderly, so respect the lines.
• Underestimating the humidity; dress in light, breathable fabrics.

The best luxury hotels in Singapore, Singapore cluster in a handful of districts, and the district matters more than the name on the door. Plan on 4–5 nights to do Singapore properly.

Singapore city guide · reviewed luxury hotels · best time of year to go · destinations across Southeast Asia · luxury hotels by city · compare Singapore with other cities

Published by Peters Signature Travel.