Singapore is an exciting land of contrasts, where you’ll discover historic shop houses sitting against a backdrop of glittering skyscrapers and high-end restaurants next to world-renowned street food. After you fly into one of the world’s best airports, Changi Airport, hit the ground running by exploring Singapore’s bustling shopping hubs, centuries-old temples and futuristic gardens.
With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve got your next layover in Singapore covered with the top places to stay to make the most of your quick holiday. Organised by top-rated hotels and budget-friendly hostels, this guide also highlights the top things to do (including cheap or free attractions) in Singapore.
Top-Rated Hotels in Singapore
Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands is an iconic hotel that defines Singapore’s skyline, home to the world’s largest rooftop pool and a 57th-floor observation deck. Dine on fine Californian cuisine at Spago Dining Room by Wolfgang Puck, enjoy a pampering massage at Banyan Tree Spa or sip cocktails at the 55th-floor Club55.
Stay in the Deluxe Room for floor-to-ceiling windows and city views or the Premier Room for a deep-soaking bathtub. The Family Room adds two twin-size beds, while the Harbour Suite includes 24-hour butler services. For the ultimate in luxury, upgrade to a Straits Suite for a private gym, baby grand piano and karaoke in the media room.
Why You Should Stay Here
- A tasting flight menu, small plates and Singapore skyline views at Club55.
- The poolside loungers, selection of drinks and rooftop views at the 150-metre-long infinity pool.
- Multiple restaurants, bars and nightclubs at the Marina Bay Sands complex.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 412 – USD 1,310
Guest Rating: 9
Address: 10 Bayfront Avenue, Marina Bay, Central Singapore, Singapore
Sofitel Singapore City Centre
Discover unparalleled luxury at the 5-star Sofitel Singapore City Centre in the heart of the CBD. Live cooking stations and refined French and Chinese cuisine highlight Racines restaurant, while the elegant 1864 lounge serves signature cocktails and champagne. Unwind at the outdoor pool or visit the nearby Singapore City Gallery for a look at the city’s past.
Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase city views in the Luxury Room, 1 King Size Bed, which also includes a Bose sound system, flat-screen TV and complimentary Wi-Fi. Upgrade to the Prestige Suite for a separate living room and access to Club Millesime & Virgin Active or a Joaquim Suite for a full kitchen.
Why You Should Stay Here
- Elegant rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows with city views.
- Seasonal dishes and live cooking stations at Racines restaurant.
- An outdoor pool and 24-hour SoFit gym.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 268 – USD 974
Guest Rating: 9.7
Address: 9 Wallich Street, Singapore City Centre, Singapore
YOTEL Singapore
Only a three-minute walk from the shops on Orchard Road, YOTEL Singapore is a hi-tech hotel with a robot concierge. Modern rooms feature adjustable Smartbeds, smart TVs and mood lighting. Upgrade to a Premium Queen with Bunk for bunk beds or First Class Queen for a private balcony with city views.
Keep cool at the outdoor swimming pool or sample some of Singapore’s local specialties at the inviting Komyuniti restaurant, which serves local dishes and creative cocktails. Don’t worry if you forgot to pack your toothpaste, as the on-site Mission Control offers a one-stop shop for anything you need.
Why You Should Stay Here
- The top-floor private deck with panoramic city views in the VIP King Suite View.
- Happy-hour specials and Ladies’ Nights at Komyuniti.
- An outdoor pool and 24-hour gym.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 117 – USD 477
Guest Rating: 8.6
Address: 366 Orchard Road, Orchard, Singapore
PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay, Singapore
With direct access to Marina Square mall, PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay, Singapore boasts a prime location in Singapore’s city centre. Elegant rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows with bay or city views, as well as flat-screen TVs, marble bathrooms and complimentary Wi-Fi. You can upgrade to a Club room for access to a private lounge, while Suites add separate living areas.
Visit the outdoor mineral water pool for respite from Singapore’s heat or the award-winning Estheva spa for body treatments. Kids will love the toys and games in the Play 4 Fun club, while the entire family can feast on international cuisine at Aquamarine.
Why You Should Stay Here
- Dim sum at Peach Blossoms and succulent steaks at Ruth’s Chris Steak House.
- Signature cocktails at Atrium Lounge and hot coffee at Cafe Mocha.
- A 10-minute walk from Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 176 – USD 653
Guest Rating: 8.4
Address: 6 Raffles Boulevard, Marina Bay, Central Singapore, Singapore
Carlton Hotel Singapore
Carlton Hotel Singapore is located along the bustling Bras Basah Road, a short walk from the Suntec Convention and Exhibition Centre. Stay in a Deluxe Room for city or pool views, Posturepedic mattress and mini bar or upgrade to a Carlton Club Room for Executive Club Lounge access. Celebrating something special? Stay in the Deluxe Suite for top-floor views and a spacious living room.
On-site dining is highlighted by the award-winning Cantonese cuisine at Wah Lok and Eco-Style sushi at Shinji by Kanesaka. Get pampered with a facial or massage at LifeSpa, unwind in a private cabana poolside or indulge in a Tuxedo Cake from the Pastry Team at Tuxedo.
Why You Should Stay Here
- The private cabanas, sun deck and poolside bar at the outdoor swimming pool.
- A modern gym with male and female saunas and once-a-week Yoga classes.
- Aromatic coffee, baked bread and decadent desserts at Tuxedo.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 168 – USD 421
Guest Rating: 8.3
Address: 76 Bras Basah Road, Singapore City Centre, Singapore
Mandarin Orchard Singapore
A haven for shopping enthusiasts, Mandarin Orchard Singapore is an award-winning hotel attached to the Mandarin Gallery mall. Standard rooms feature flat-screen TVs, mini bars and complimentary Wi-Fi, while upgraded rooms add city skyline views. Upgrade to a Suite for a separate living area.
You’re spoilt for choice with on-site dining options, from the two-Michelin-starred Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro to the sophisticated Chatterbox, home of the legendary Mandarin Chicken Rice. Unwind with a dip in the outdoor pool, practise your backhand swing on the tennis court or sip single-malt whisky at Bar on 5.
Why You Should Stay Here
- Panoramic views of the city skyline from higher-floor rooms.
- Michelin-star cuisine and one of Singapore’s most celebrated local dishes at the on-site restaurants.
- Live music, light bites and weekly whisky specials at Bar on 5.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 239 – USD 823
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: 333 Orchard Road, Orchard, Singapore
Hotel Location
Top-Rated Attractions in Singapore
Singapore Flyer
The Singapore Flyer is not only a thrilling attraction, but it also offers an unbeatable view of Singapore’s skyline that changes drastically from day to night. Hop on the world’s second-largest observation wheel and choose from packages that add champagne, fine dining and Singapore Slings.
S.E.A Aquarium
Animal lovers can see more than 100,000 sea animals at S.E.A Aquarium, which boasts 50 different habitats housing stingrays, sharks and dolphins. Families can explore one of the world’s largest aquarium, while thrill seekers can sign up for underwater Shark Encounters.
Universal Studios Singapore
Get your adrenalin pumping at Universal Studios Singapore, a family-friendly amusement park with thrilling roller coasters and live shows. Enjoy heart-stopping fun on the duelling coasters at Battlestar Galactica or brave the 3D Transformers ride, then strike a pose with Elmo and catch a dazzling fireworks show and lively parade.
Asian Civilisations Museum
History enthusiasts should visit the Asian Civilisations Museum, which explores pan-Asian culture, religion and its people through fascinating exhibits and over 1,000 artefacts. Learn about the Indian Ocean trade, the scholars that played a role in Chinese culture and marvel at porcelain figures and bronze sculptures.
Night Safari
Putting a whole new twist on the traditional zoo experience, Night Safari is the world’s first nocturnal zoo. Get a unique glimpse of over 900 animals, including Malayan tigers, spotted hyenas, wildebeests and gazelles. You can even sign up for a Safari Adventure Tour and participate in an elephant feeding session.
Best Budget Hostels in Singapore
Beary Best Kampong Glam
Beary Best Kampong Glam is a boutique capsule hostel perfect for tight budgets. Situated along Arab Street, the capsule rooms include Supreme Comfort mattresses, international power points, reading lamps and extra-large lockers with code locks.
Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hostel as well as a two-level rooftop terrace with stunning panoramic views of Kampong Glam and Sultan Mosque. Socialise with fellow travellers while enjoying the comfy outdoor seating.
Why You Should Stay Here
- Guests have access to free walking tours and discounts on local attractions.
- An outdoor terrace with stunning city views.
- Laundry facilities, luggage storage and a tour desk.
Star Rating: 2*
Price: USD 39 – USD 99
Guest Rating: 10
Address: 64 Arab Street, Rochor, Singapore
Happy Snail Hostel
Catering to budget travellers, Happy Snail Hostel is a five-minute bus ride from Sentosa Island and Chinatown. There are two types of rooms available, mixed dorms and ladies-only dorms, which include air-conditioning, individual power points and key-card access.
Catch up with emails on the high-speed Wi-Fi or mingle with guests at the complimentary breakfast served each morning, which includes free coffee and tea. There’s a bookshelf full of books and a Game Zone, as well as a Computer area and common area with a big-screen TV.
Why You Should Stay Here
- Complimentary breakfast with Nutella, peanut butter, strawberry and orange jams.
- Air-conditioned rooms with personal lockers and reading lights.
- Free walking tours offered Monday through Friday.
Star Rating: 1*
Price: USD 44 – USD 200
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Block 147 Silat Avenue #01-32, Bukit Merah, Singapore
Wink Capsule Hostel
Wink Capsule Hostel is nestled in the heart of Chinatown, surrounded by some of Singapore’s top bars, restaurants and attractions. Custom-made individual pod-style beds feature sound-resistant walls, ambient backlight and cushy backrests with enough room to sit up.
Enjoy modern comforts, such as power sockets to charge your gadgets, key-card access and generous locker space. Queen-size pods are also available for couples travelling together or those who prefer a bigger bed, while Ladies dorms also add extra perks, such as vanity counters.
Why You Should Stay Here
- A shared kitchen with a dining table, refrigerator and cooking facilities.
- Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, daily breakfast and luggage storage.
- Single pods for solo travellers and larger pods for couples.
Star Rating: 2*
Price: USD 51 – USD 173
Guest Rating: 8.7
Address: 8A Mosque Street, Chinatown, Singapore
CUBE – Boutique Capsule Hotel @ Chinatown
Housed in a beautifully renovated building, CUBE – Boutique Capsule Hotel @ Chinatown is a five-minute walk from the Chinatown MRT station. Offering snuggly soft linens, universal plugs and USB charger ports, the capsules also include dim lights, soundproofing and air vents.
Choose from Single capsules in a shared room or a Private capsule room that can accommodate up to four people. Queen capsules add extra space, while Female-Only capsules are just for the ladies. After a day of sightseeing, swap travel stories with new friends at the on-site CUBE Bar.
Why You Should Stay Here
- Complimentary self-help laundry and breakfast buffet.
- Personal lockers in each room with secure key-card access.
- The social atmosphere and cocktails at the CUBE bar.
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 54 – USD 182
Guest Rating: 8.5
Address: 76, 78 Smith Street (Level 2, 3), Chinatown, Singapore
River City Inn Hostel
River City Inn Hostel is a family-owned and operated hostel, just a 15-minute walk from the landmark Merlion statue. There are a variety of rooms to accommodate every type of traveller, from a budget-friendly 14-Bed Mixed Dorm to a 9-Bed Female Dorm.
Travelling with friends or loved ones? Choose the 4-Bed Private Room for your own space. Start your morning with breakfast favourites or kick back after a long day of exploring Singapore at the TV Lounge, which features books, games, movies and an Xbox.
Why You Should Stay Here
- A variety of mixed-gender and female-only dorms to accommodate different travellers.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi, daily breakfast, lockers and luggage storage.
- Less than a five-minute walk to Clark Quay MRT station.
Star Rating: 2.5*
Price: USD 44 – USD 109
Guest Rating: 7.9
Address: 33C Hong Kong Street, Riverside, Singapore
Rucksack Inn @ Lavender Street
Only a five-minute walk from Bendemeer MRT station, Rucksack Inn @ Lavender Street offers easy access to downtown restaurants and bars. This is Singapore’s largest hostel with 150 beds, offering wallet-friendly prices in its bunk beds, pods and private rooms.
Air-conditioned rooms include personal reading lamps, privacy curtains and power sockets. You’re bound to meet a few new friends over a few drinks at the rooftop terrace, which is also a quiet respite from the city’s bustle.
Why You Should Stay Here
- Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi and shampoo and shower gel.
- A rooftop terrace with seating.
- Has a communal kitchen and laundry services.
Star Rating: 2*
Price: USD 29 – USD 239
Guest Rating: 8.6
Address: 280 Lavender Street, Lavender, Singapore
Hotel Location
Best Budget-Friendly Attractions in Singapore
Gardens by the Bay
One of Singapore’s most iconic attractions, Gardens by the Bay is best-known for the otherworldly vertical gardens at SuperTree Grove and the world’s largest indoor waterfall. Not everything at the 101-hectare Gardens by the Bay is free, but many of its outdoor gardens are, including the Supertree Grove, Sun Pavilion and Heritage Gardens.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
Singapore isn’t just gleaming skyscrapers, as evidenced by the 82-hectare Singapore Botanic Gardens. Founded over 150 years ago, this large UNESCO-listed complex is home to about 10,000 species of plant, a bonsai garden and a picturesque Swan Lake. It’s also free to enter.
Little India and Chinatown
Two of Singapore’s most culturally-rich neighbourhoods, Little India and Chinatown offer lively wet markets, ornate temples and tempting street-food stalls. Don’t miss Serangoon Road’s colourful Tekka Market in Little India or the souvenir shops and street vendors selling barbecued meats on Chinatown’s New Bridge Road.
Orchard Road
Stroll down Orchard Road, as this world-renowned shopping street showcases some of the most exclusive brands. Enjoy a little window-shopping along one of Singapore’s most iconic streets, then catch a movie at one of the modern theatres or belt out a tune at KTV karaoke.
Haw Par Villa
Walk through Haw Par Villa to admire over 1,000 statues and 150 giant dioramas depicting scenes from Chinese mythology. Built by the brothers who invented Tiger Balm, the park highlights Chinese folklore, including depictions of the morality-driven Ten Courts of Hell, as well as legendary works of Chinese literature.
Make the Most of Your Singapore Layover
Singapore offers high-street shopping, tantalising cuisine and a rich history. Catering to a range of budgets, the accommodation in Singapore typically includes welcomed perks, such as on-site restaurants, outdoor pools and easy access to top attractions. No matter your budget, style or taste, you’re sure to find that perfect place to stay on your layover in Singapore.
Where will you stay in Singapore? Let us know in the comments below.
