A vibrant tropical metropolis with a fascinating history and a growing reputation for innovation, Singapore is a fantastic destination. Many of us have experienced the city-state only briefly as a gateway to the wonders of Indonesia or Malaysia, but this pint-sized country really packs a punch when it comes to food, heritage, shopping and events. Accommodation options are almost endless in this lively metropolis, ranging from sleek city hotels to beautiful boutique hideaways. Choosing the best places to stay in Singapore can feel tricky, but our Gurus have got you covered!

Some of our Singapore Collections

• The best hotels in Singapore with balconies
• The best business hotels in Singapore

There’s far more to Singapore than the skyscrapers of the CBD. If you’re eager to explore the region’s natural beauty, look to 101-hectare Gardens by the Bay, the acclaimed Singapore Botanic Garden — undoubtedly one of the world’s most beautiful — and the National Orchid Garden. Little ones will adore an outing to the Singapore Zoo or to Universal Studios Singapore, too. For a sense of Singapore’s rich heritage as a trading settlement, head to the gorgeous Emerald Hill Neighbourhood and see the NUS Baba House and the Peranakan Museum. The National Museum of Singapore, the Singapore Art Museum and the ArtScience Museum are also excellent.

Singapore’s fabulous shopping scene is as buzzy as ever, with boutiques galore in malls and restored shophouses across the city. Foodies, on the other hand, can delight in discovering the simple hawker centres where Singaporean families congregate for sensational fare from family-owned stalls, scour the streets of Chinatown for late-night eats, or gather at ultra-chic gastronomic restaurants. Cocktail bars abound too; some of our favourites are tucked within the best places to stay in Singapore, perfect for kickstarting or rounding off your evening!

The Best Places to Stay in Singapore

For Boutique Chic

• Duxton Reserve has been richly decorated by the acclaimed Anouska Hempel, and features red, gold and black hues in uniquely appointed rooms and suites with four-poster beds and a real sense of old-school Singaporean glamour. Housed in a restored building in characterful Tanjong Pagar, this is a chic choice for romantics and fans of bold design.
• The Scarlet offers a romantic, theatrical experience with velvet upholstery, dark polished wood and ornate mirrors in its 80 moody, colourful rooms; the best have hot tubs too. Made up of 13 restored shophouses in buzzy Chinatown, this is a brilliant boutique bolthole for couples.
• The Warehouse Hotel was once a spice godown on the Singapore River. Now extensively refurbished yet retaining nods to its industrial roots, it's a trendy boutique hotel with hip, minimalist rooms and suites clad in restful grey & white tones. Gather at the bar or modern Singaporean restaurant for flavoursome food and cocktails. One for design lovers.
• The Vagabond Club is housed in a 20th-century building between Little India and Kampong Glam. Atmospheric rooms boast Chinese screens, velvet pieces and eclectic art collections. The Whiskey & Jazz Club is the real heart of the hotel, with a tremendous array of tipples and a lively programme of events ranging from talks to live music nights. Very glamorous.

For Landmark Luxury

• The Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore is the brand's original flagship property — and deemed by many to be their very best. Set in 15 acres of grounds, this splendid hotel boasts sumptuous guestrooms and suites, a swimming pool, multiple restaurants, a soothing spa, tennis courts and more. A hugely romantic hotel, with classic style in spades.
• Raffles Singapore is one of the world's most iconic hotels, dating back over 130 years. Home of the Singapore Sling and the legendary Long Bar, this is a glamorous old-fashioned hotel for those seeking to experience the charm of a bygone era. You'll also find six restaurants, a swimming pool, spa, theatre and museum.
• Mandarin Oriental Singapore fuses classic Singaporean style with contemporary elements to create a hugely luxurious city hotel. Opulent rooms promise striking harbour views, and there are five restaurants to choose from after big days of exploring or rejuvenating spa treatments. Fabulous.
• Marina Bay Sands is a glittering icon, with more than 2000 chic rooms set in a towering skycraper which has come to dominate the city's skyline. Boasting the world's largest rooftop infinity pool, a plethora of dining options and a glitzy casino, this is a tremendously luxurious choice. Slick suites will suit romantics or groups of friends, whilst the family rooms are perfect for those with little ones.

For Old-School Charm

• Villa Samadhi has 20 restored bedrooms with carved wooden beds, hardwood floors and chandeliers. The best suites have private plunge pools and big, sink-into tubs. Venture to Tamarind Hill for delicious cuisine. A charming, old-fashioned spot in the Labrador Nature Reserve, perfect for those eager to kick back, take long strolls and enjoy bird watching.
• Goodwood Park Hotel — once the Teutonia Club — dates back to 1900, and has welcomed guests from around the world ever since. Elegant rooms and suites have been extensively updated, but retain elements of eastern style. The six hectares of grounds, complete with two pools, make this a very appealing spot for unwinding.

For Contemporary Cool

• Naumi Hotel is a cool, contemporary spot in the CBD, with 73 swish, monochrome rooms overlooking the glittering city skyline. The 10th floor pool & Cloud 9 bar is perfect for lively evening gatherings, and there's a gym with yoga facilities. Brilliant for design-minded travellers and young — or young-at-heart — couples.
• Andaz Singapore offers modern rooms and suites in the heart of lively Bugis. An urban high-rise retreat with Andre Fu-designed interiors, multiple bars and eateries and a rooftop pool, this is a trendy choice for business or leisure. Interiors are clad in light wood, with uninterrupted city views.

For Business Travellers

• The Fullerton Bay Hotel, overlooking Marina Bay, is a slick, Andre Fu-designed property with smart rooms and suites. Excellent business facilities include multiple meeting rooms, as well as drinking and dining options for hosting get-togethers in the evening. The pool, spa and gym invite guests to unwind, too.
• Swissotel The Stamford has no fewer than 12 restaurants, two swimming pools, a superb spa and a well-equipped gym. A five-star stay in one of the tallest buildings in Asia, it sits above the City Hall MRT Station — well-placed for discovering the city on business or leisure. Meeting rooms, conference facilities and a business centre are all within the hotel.

For an Island Escape

• Capella Hotel promises laid-back luxury within the lush rainforests of Sentosa. The hotel fuses classic and contemporary elegance in rooms and suites clad in dark Indonesian teak, with red and white upholstered furnishings. Kick back at the spa before afternoon tea at The Knolls, Asian fusion cuisine at Cassia and cocktails at Bob's. An opulent island base.
• The Barracks Hotel began life as an artillery outpost and has been transformed into an indulgent hotel where big beds topped with crisp white linens sit alongside polished wood, leather chairs and chic furniture inspired by the golden days of travel. Bathrooms with free-standing tubs are a real treat — as is the refreshing pool. One for couples or families.
• The Outpost Hotel is perfect for lively trips with friends on Sentosa Island. Gather on the rooftop for infinity pool swims and buzzy DJ parties after days spent doing yoga and dance fitness classes with personal trainers. Deluxe rooms have a grown-up, minimalist feel with a largely monochrome palette and garden views. An adults-only spot.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly into Singapore Changi Airport,10 miles northeast of the city and well-connected to the centre by Singapore's famously efficient metro system.
• Singapore has ample public transport links, but you may want to drive independently if you're venturing beyond the city. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Tropical and humid, Singapore is a year-round destination. Temperatures hover around 28-33°C for much of the year, with the heaviest rainfall expected April and November - December. Showers are frequent and refreshing! A number of annual festivals take place between July and September; this is peak tourist season so book your trip well in advance.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Kuala Lumpur.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in neighbouring Malaysia.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.