Singapore is a land of contrasts. From high-end, high-tech shopping malls and Michelin starred restaurants to the character-filled streets of Haji Lane and the flavour-packed hawker centres, there’s something for everyone and every budget. And that goes for the hotels too.
With everything from budget capsule hotels to some of the most luxurious lodgings you’ll ever experience and everything in between, here are the best hotels to book into next time you’re in Singapore.
Budget
Under $200
The Great Madras
You’ll know you’ve made the right choice upon your approach to The Great Madras in colourful Little India. Housed in an art deco building, you’ll definitely want to hire the interior designer here because every nook and cranny exudes effortlessly cool vibes. There’s an onsite barber to keep fellas looking dapper, a halal bistro to keep you full in-between visits to Singapore’s best foodie haunts and a pool to cool off in. No matter your budget The Great Madras has a room for you, even hostel-like rooms if you’re keeping things pretty tight. The Good Room is worth the small splurge for your own ensuite.
Hotel G
With single, queen and king-sized rooms all under the $200 mark, staying at Hotel G doesn’t mean you have to skimp on Singapore’s amazing hospitality. Industrial, vintage and bohemian design collide at this boutique hotel that’s cooler than a cucumber. At 16 square metres, the Great Room boasts everything from a king bed and rain shower to snacks and eco-friendly products. Downstairs French bistro and wine bar Ginett pumps out delicious grilled meats, cold cuts and cheese, while 25 Degrees has your burgers and booze covered. Don’t worry, you can work it all off on the techno-gym treadmills in the 24/7 vintage American boxing ring style gym.
the pod
We’ll forgive you for thinking you’re sleeping on a spaceship at The Pod. The boutique capsule hotel offers modern and minimalistic living; with complimentary laundry, a hot buffet breakfast and all the bells and whistles you could need for a cozy night’s sleep. Conveniently located off Beach Road in the heart of Kampong Glam, you’ll sleep well knowing all the dosh you’re saving can be spent exploring Singapore from this home base.
Kesa House
Packed with smart design and space-saving solutions, you’ll find KēSa House in the heart of vibrant Chinatown. Enjoy boutique-style accommodation from as little as $144 per night and prepare to make some new mates as the hotel has been designed around the idea of connectivity. In case you pick up a sous chef on your travels, the Kēsakitchen is on standby for culinary creations big and small, while the Kēsaterrace is ready to welcome you for a sundowner after the day’s adventures.
Mid Range
$200—$500
The Warehouse Hotel
Singapore is home to many architectural gems, and The Warehouse Hotel is definitely one of them. Restored to perfection, the building hails back to 1895, when secret societies, liquor distilleries and underground activity were rampant along the Singapore River. Industrial accents feature throughout, with the hard edges softened by plants, luxe linens and warm lighting, culminating in the most welcoming retreat from a busy day on the steamy streets. You won’t be sorry for splurging on a river view room. The onsite restaurant, Po, is your go-to for modern Singaporean-style eats, while The Lobby Bar pays its respects to the property’s past life, offering up sophisticated libations.
The Fullerton Hotel
If The Raffles is way out of your budget, The Fullerton offers up a similar kind of magic for a little less dosh. The neoclassical building sprung up at the end of the roaring 20s but still retains the same charm from when it was the Singapore GPO. Rooms offer views of the Singapore River or Marina Bay and are appointed with luxurious, heritage-style furnishings. Multiple restaurants and bars on-site mean you’ll never go hungry—there’s even a cake boutique for when your sweet tooth comes knocking. Don’t miss a swim in the infinity pool overlooking the Singapore River.
The Outpost Hotel Sentosa
The Outpost Hotel Sentosa is described as equally bold and stylish, and we’d have to agree. Tucked into the hillside adjacent to the Singapore Strait, you can choose between the pool, island or sea view rooms and regardless you’ll score the deluxe treatment. The pool deck is a glorious place to catch some rays (not to mention cocktails at the swim-up bar), and there’s even a lazy river to keep things interesting. There are four restaurants to choose from, so if you’re looking to get away for some hardcore relaxation, this is the ticket.
THE DUXTON RESERVE HOTEL, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION
Rich in Chinese culture, the Duxton Reserve, Autograph Collection is stunning. The smaller, boutique-style hotel with just 49 rooms were meticulously designed by Anouska Hempel, and no matter the room you choose you’ll get to experience her genius. Our picks have to be the Opium Room and Opium Suite—both dark and moody, they reflect Singapore’s rich cultural history, just with all the comforts of today. The onsite Yellow Pot restaurant and bar dishes out contemporary Chinese in a traditional, opulent setting.
Andaz Singapore
A concept hotel by the Hyatt group, the Andaz is a five-star hotel without the over the top price tag. The king bedrooms with views of the bay are worth the extra few dollars—think floor to ceiling windows, 42 square metres of space to stretch out in and even a daybed. The hotel interiors were designed by Andre Fu and feature warm russet and mustard tones and bespoke furniture. Another hotel that makes it hard for you to leave, the Andaz has multiple restaurants and bars, including rooftop bar Mr. Stork offering teepees, tropical plants and 360-degree views.
Baller
$500+
Raffles Singapore
Even if you’ve never been to Singapore, you’ve probably heard of The Raffles. The building has recently undergone some hefty restoration work and it’s looking as beautiful as ever. Built-in the 19th century, its walls have witnessed the antics of Charlie Chaplin, Elizabeth Taylor and Karl Lagerfeld, and it’s also the home of the delicious Singapore Sling, so it’d be rude not to order one of those. With nine restaurants and bars on the property, plenty of stunning nooks and crannies to explore and rooms starting at around the $1000 per night mark, you know you’re in for a memorable time. And if you can’t afford it—we don’t blame you—definitely add a visit to your itinerary so you can soak up some of the magic without the debt.
Marina Bay Sands
Singapore’s most iconic hotel—next to the Raffles of course—Marina Bay Sands is a hotel everyone should experience at least once in their life. Starting with our favourite feature, the rooftop infinity pool sits 200 metres above the ground and gives your heart a little jolt as you swim towards the edge. The boat-shaped structure atop the hotel is dubbed the SkyPark, and as well as the pool you’ll find a bar, restaurants and observation deck up here. The rooms are elegantly furnished and there’s no bad view. Right across the road, you’ll find The Shoppes filled with all the designer brands you know and love, and a canal running through the middle which you can take gondola rides in. You’re also in the perfect possie for exploring the beautiful Gardens by the Bay.
The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore
Known for its incredibly lush hotels across the world, The Ritz-Carlton at Marina Bay is no exception. It would probably take you a week to enjoy the full 4200-piece art collection, that is if we can tear you away from your plush king-sized bed. Rooms offer iconic Singapore views, jacuzzis, Sonos sound systems and marble bathrooms. With a Michelin starred restaurant on site, your taste buds will be taken care of too.
TreeTop Lofts
Sentosa is home to a whole lot of unique experiences and staying at the TreeTop Lofts is one of them. 12 metres above the ground, they’re essentially treehouses pimped up to the max, with outdoor terraces, walk-in robes and ensuites. A great hideaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, you’ll feel at one with nature as you look out across the native tree canopy. They’re priced on application, so start saving.
In need of a well-deserved escape? No matter what your budget, Singapore has incredible hotels in abundance and is where passions and possibilities meet, plus they're all SG Clean Certified. Head to Singapore Tourism for more info.
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