As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
Looking for the best and cheapest area to stay in Singapore? Within a city of so many highlights and endless possibilities, figuring out the best area to stay in Singapore can be a little daunting. While there are definitely areas more budget friendly than others, your choice of location might really come down to what you actually plan to do while there.
This Singapore travel guide can help you decide;
Best area to stay in Singapore for first timers
Where to stay in Singapore with family on a budget
Most convenient place to stay in Singapore based on your itinerary
Cheap places to stay in Singapore – hostels – hotels – family stays
Whatever reason, this article can help you make the best decision based on your budget.
Suggested reading: Singapore on a Budget – ultimate guide to the city
What this Best and Cheapest area to stay in Singapore covers
The 3 most budget friendly areas in Singapore
See what areas in Singapore have the most hotels to choose rom at the right price
Most budget friendly hotels and hostels across the entire city, in all tourist precincts
You may already have your heart set on a particular area for several reasons. I’ll show you the cheapest places to stay.
Walking distance to the best and biggest attractions
See how far you can get on foot to all the popular attractions from your hotel
About the area
General information about the area, what it is known for and what you can expect.
MRT station information
Train line information for each area so you can get places easy and fast
Further reading for your first time visit to Singapore –
First time in Singapore – 16 handy things to know
4 to 5 day Singapore itinerary
want to know how to plan the ultimate trip plus all the best tips
How to choose the best location to stay in Singapore
If this your first time visiting Singapore the best location to stay in Singapore might come down to any of the following:
- you want a central location that fits your budget and is close to main attractions
- maybe you are bringing the family and want to cater for everyone
- you’re looking for nightly entertainment or shopping hot spots
- or you just want convenience at the right price
Whatever your reason, Singapore has it covered.
Related Article: 5 day Singapore itinerary plus how to make it affordable
Looking for more ways to save money in general. Want to become a frequent traveller on a budget?
18 Cheap Travel Hacks for people who love to travel
Best area to stay in Singapore
Visitors to Singapore arrive in the East Region at Changi International but stay primarily within the Central Region. This is where all those world class attractions reside. You may occasionally travel out of the Central area to attend a different attraction, but for the most of it, you will be in the Central area.
Choosing the right location will save you heaps of time if you can travel on foot. Mind you, the train system is world class and it is running trains every few minutes to all locations.
The only place that will take you time is the Singapore Zoo and River Wonders as it is located further out. But otherwise all the locations listed below are good central places to stay. It all comes down price and convenience.
Related article
Breakfast with the Orangutans- Amazing & Unique
Now straight off, I want to talk about the area of Geylang. Located on the eastern fringe of the central district, Geyland offers some of the cheapest hotels in the city, but it is not an ideal place to stay. Firstly, this is a red light district with many legal brothels lining the streets, not the place you want to bring the family right!
Though it is considered safe, I personally wasn’t interested in staying here. It was also a little far out and the closest MRT station was quite a distance so I have completely ruled it out for this article.
OK, now we have that out of the way. lets dive into the best areas to stay in Singapore for cheap hotels.
Interested in learning how to save money for travel?
How to save money for travel – save $10,000 per year
Chinatown
Best area to stay in Singapore on a budget
Many people believe China town is the best area to stay in Singapore to stay on a budget. I tend to agree simply because you are spoiled for choice probably more than any other location.
About the area
Chinatown is one of Singapore’s oldest Districts. It was first established in the mid 1800’s and instantly flourished. In fact, the Singapore government had to redevelop the city during the 1980’s due to the congestion and making way for a newer modern era without losing its heritage.
You will find a mix of old and new harmonizing together these days. The historic temples are surrounded by trendy new bars and boutique shops.
For the budget conscience, you can’t look much further than Chinatown. From cheap hostels and hotels, to street markets and Hawker Centres (large food halls), China Town is a colourful and lively option to stay in Singapore.
Attractions in Chinatown
Thian Hock Keng Temple
– the oldest Chinese Temple in Singapore / Cost: Free / Open 7.30 am to 5.30 pm
Street Market
– for street food and souvenirs / try Pagoda and Temple Streets / open 9.30 am to 8 pm daily
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
– Buddhist tooth Relic museum & temple / Cost: Free / open 9 am – 5 pm
Maxwell Food Court
– one of the biggest & most popular hawker centres in Singapore
Walking distance to major Singapore attractions
Chinatown in relatively central to many attractions that can be accessed on foot.
| China town walking distance to: | Distance in km | Walking time |
| Marina Bay Sands | 2.2 km | 28 min |
| Singapore Flyer | 3.0 km | 36 min |
| Gardens by the Bay | 2.3 km | 29 min |
| Arab Street | 2.8 km | 36 min |
| Orchard Road | 3.2 km | 42 min |
| Clarke Quay | 1.4 km | 17 min |
| Merlion Park | 1.7 km | 21 min |
| Raffles Long Bar | 1.9 km | 24 min |
MRT (train) information
- Closest Station: Chinatown MRT station
- Connected by North East & Downtown lines (2 out of 6 main lines)
Hotels and Hostels for your budget
China Town is a great choice if you are on a budget. Hotels and food options are extensive. But of course there are always the more upscale of either. Here are some great choices for your budget:
Hostel: (pricing through Hostel World)
Beary Best – mixed dorm -guest Rating 7.7 /10 – From USD$18/ AUD $24
The Bohemian Chic – mixed dorm -guest Rating 8.6 /10 – From USD$25/ AUD $35
Wink Capsule Hostel – private room guest Rating 8.4 /10 – From USD$70 / AUD $95
Hotels- twin share total: (pricing through Hotels.com)
PRO TIP: Did you know that Hotels.com give members a free night for every 10 nights booked. This is based on the average amount you spend per night. So far I’ve redeemed well over 25 free nights, and around $5,000 worth of hotel stays simply by booking through Hotels.com. How cool is that. Plus members receive special “member only prices” and lots of bonuses such as late check out, free parking or chocolates and wine. I love it! Melinda
Dorsett Singapore – standard room – guest rating 8.4 / 10
From USD$94 – go to USA site / From AUD $128- go to Australia site
Galaxy Pods Capsule Hotel– double pod – guest rating 8.4 / 10
From USD $49 – go to USA site / AUD $72 – go to Australia Site
Hotel 81 Cosy – superior double -guest rating 6.8 / 10
From USD $59 – go to USA site / From AUD $80 – go to Australia site
Family (2 adults + 2 children)
CUBE Family Boutique Capsule Hotel – sleeps 4 people
From USD $153 – go to USA site / From AUD $207 – go to Australia site
Little India
Best area to stay in Singapore for historic and vibrant culture
About the Area
Little India is one of Singapore’s most colourful and vibrant precincts.
Still retaining it’s historic significance, you’ll find a mix of old and new here. Wander the streets and explore the area taking int he sights and smells of Little India.
You’ll find plenty of restaurants and vendors selling spices, silk and flowers.
Attractions in Little India
Former House of Tan Teng Niah
This totally Instragram worthy building (as seen above) was originally owned by Tan Teng Niah, a prominent business man who owned sweet factories in the area. The European and Chinese inspired architectural building was heritage listed in 1989.
Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
Pay a visit to the temple which was built was Indian pioneers during the 19th century.
Tekka Centre
This multi use complex is a wet market, food centre and shops. One of Singapore’s favourite Hawker Centres, it offers an array of local and Indian cuisines for next to nothing prices.
Walking distance to major Singapore attractions
| Little India walking distance to: | Distance in km | Walking time |
| Marina Bay Sands | 3.8 km | 48 min |
| Singapore Flyer | 2.6 km | 33 min |
| Gardens by the Bay | 3.2 km | 41 min |
| Arab Street | 0.9 km | 12 min |
| China Town | 3.4 km | 43 mins |
| Orchard Road | 3.5 km | 44 min |
| Merlion Park | 2.8 km | 37 min |
| Raffles Long Bar | 1.6 km | 21 min |
MRT train information
- Closest Station – Little India MRT
- Connected by North East & Downtown Lines
Hotels and Hostels for your Budget
Hostels: (pricing through Hostel World)
Dream lodge – single pod -guest Rating 9.7 /10 – From USD $40/ AUD $54
Snooze Inn @ Dickson Road – mixed dorm – guest rating 7.3 /10 – From USD $22 / AUD $30
Hotels – twin share (pricing through Hotels.com)
The Daulat by Hotel Calmo – Superior Room – guest rating 7.8/10
From USD $96 – go to USA site / From AUD $130 – go to Australia site
Hotel 81 Rocher – Standard Room – Guest rating 7.2/10
From USD $65 – go to USA site / From AUD $89 – go to Australia site
Hilton Garden Inn Singapore Serangoon – King room – Guest rating 8.2/10
From USD $121 – go to USA site / From AUD $164 – go to Australia site
Family (2 adults + 2 children)
Tai Hoe Hotel (SG Clean) – sleeps up to 5 people – Guest rating 6.8/10
From USD $183- go to USA site / From AUD $248 – go to Australia site
Kampong Glam & Bugis Street
Best area to stay in Singapore for bargains, arts & culture
About the area
Bugis street is part of the central business district but is much more than just office buildings.
You can find hotels, shopping and plenty of culture along the stretch that is Bugis Road. The area is diverse and literally changes from street block to street block.
Bugis Street also takes on the Kampong Glam area which is part of the Muslim Quarter.
Attractions – Bugis Street
Bugis Street Market
One of the biggest and busiest markets in Singapore. A shoppers paradise. Cost FREE / Open 11 am to 10 pm
Arab Street & Haji Lane
The Muslim quarter is a colourful and trendy neighbourhood of bars, shops, artwork and restaurants. Cost FREE / Open any time
The Sultan Mosque
An Islamic place of worship and easily identified by the gold dome. Cost FREE / Mon to Sun 10 am to 12 om & 2 pm to 4 pm (Fri 2.30 pm to 4.30 pm)
Bras Basah
Adjacent to Bugis Street, you will find various museums and National Monuments as part of the Arts and Heritage District.
Walking distance to major Singapore Attractions
- Bugis Street is a big area so we have used Bugis Junction as the starting point
| Bugis Street Junction walking distance to: | Distance in km | Walking time |
| Singapore Flyer | 1.8 km | 23 min |
| Gardens by the Bay | 2.2 km | 28 min |
| Marina Bay Sands | 2.6 km | 33 min |
| Arab Street | 500 mt | 6 min |
| China Town | 2.6 km | 33 min |
| Orchard Road | 3.1 km | 40 min |
| Clarke Quay | 1.8 km | 23 min |
| Merlion Park | 1.8 km | 23 min |
| Raffles Long Bar | 750 mt | 10 min |
MRT (train) information
- Closest Station: Bugis MRT station
- Connected by : Downtown and East West line
Hotels and Hostels for your budget
Hostels (pricing through Hostel World)
The Cube Boutique – shared dorm – guest rating 10/10 – From USD $66 / AUD $89
The Pod Boutique Capsule – Mixed and female dorm – Guest Rating 9.4/10 – From USD $36 / AUD $49
Hotels – twin share (pricing through Hotels.com)
Hotel 81 Heritage Superior Queen – guest rating 7.8 / 10
From USD $58- go to USA site / From AUD $71 – go to Australia site
The Sultan – standard double – Guest rating 8.0/10
From USD $124- go to USA site / From AUD $167 – go to Australia site
Family Rooms – ( 2 adults + 2 children ) Note: For those with only 1 child, many hotels offer free stay in a double room. Check the hotels above.
Clarke Quay / Singapore River
Best area to stay in Singapore for nightlife
About the Area
Part of the downtown area, Clarke Quay sits on the Singapore River and is an historic location in Singapore. There are 3 quays, but Clarke Quay is the more predominant.
Today it is a vibrant place of entertainment with plenty of bars and restaurants staying open way into the wee hours. If you want to be part of the action, Clarke Quay and surrounds is the place to be.
Along the river you will find boats lined up ready to take you cruising along the Singapore River.
Attractions in Clark Quay & Singapore River
– get off the pavement and join a cruise/ 40 minute duration / Cost $42.63 SGD
Fort Canning Park
A lush green space with historic significance. You can climb Fort Canning Hill or relax on the extensive lawns. / Open 24 hrs /cost: FREE
National Museum
Take a look around the oldest museum in Singapore. Dedicated to the history of Singapore. / Opening Times 10 am to 7 pm / Cost : $15 SGD per adult
Central Fire Station
Showcasing historic firetrucks and equipment. / Opening hours 10 am – 4 pm Tues to Sun / Cost FREE
Walking distance to major Singapore attractions
| Clarke Quay Central walking distance to: | Distance in km | Walking time |
| Marina Bay Sands | 2.8 km | 34 min |
| Singapore Flyer | 2.4 km | 30 min |
| Gardens by the Bay | 2.6 km | 33 min |
| Arab Street | 2.2 km | 28 min |
| China Town | 1.4 km | 17 mins |
| Orchard Road | 1.9 km | 24 min |
| Merlion Park | 1.3 km | 16 min |
| Raffles Long Bar | 1.5 km | 19 min |
As you can see Clarke Quay is within walking distance to many places in Singapore.
MRT (train) information
- Closest Station : Clarke Quay MRT Station
- Connected by North East line (1 of 6 main lines)
Hotels and Hostels for your Budget
Hostels (pricing through Hostel World)
Unfortunately there are no hostels in Clarke Quay
Hotels (pricing through Hotels.com)
The Quay Hotel : 2 star- guest rating 8.2 / 10 – Ave price per night $129 SGD
The Quay Hotel : 2 star- guest rating 8.2 / 10
From USD $103- go to USA site / From AUD $132 – go to Australia site
Ibis Budget Singapore : 3 star- guest rating 7.8/10
From USD $103- go to USA site / From AUD $107 – go to Australia site
Hotel Clover the Arts : 3 star – guest rating 8.2 / 10
From USD $121- go to USA site / From AUD $164 – go to Australia site
Family (2 adults + 2 children)
Furama City Centre – sleeps up to 4 people- Guest rating 7.6/10 Great choice for families, incudes pool on property.
From USD $268- go to USA site / From AUD $366 – go to Australia site
Marina Bay
Best area to stay for attractions and luxury
The tourist hot spot of Marina Bay is a huge draw card for visitors. Many would consider it to be the best area to stay in Singapore, especially for the world famous infinity pool. But it all comes at a cost.
This luxury area in Singapore comes to life each evening, and becomes centre stage to a dazzling display of lights and lasers. It is truly magnificent and absolutely world class.
The famous Marina Bay Sands hotel stands tall over the bay commanding a presence like no other structure.
Attractions near Marina Bay
– one of the biggest attractions in Singapore. The two air conditioned domes show case the best of horticulture over 250 indoor acres. Cost from $28 or / open
– at the top of Marina Bay Sands is the observation deck. With breath taking views across the entire city.
See Marina Bay from the sky, on board the observation wheel. Cost $33 SGD / Open 8.30 am to 10.30 pm
Spectra Light Show
Each and every night enjoy the light spectacular at Marina Bay. Laser light and water show. Cost FREE / Time 8 pm & 9.30 each night and 11 pm (fri and sat only )
Gardens by the Bay Light Show
A light and sound show among the supertrees at Gardens by the Bay. Cost FREE / Time 7.45 pm & 8.45 pm each night
Merlion Park
An iconic mythical creature, the Merlion is Half lion, half fish. Cost FREE / Open Any time
Walking Distances to major Singapore Attractions
- We have used Marina Bay Sands Hotel as the starting point for walking distances.
| Marina Bay Sands walking distance to: | Distance in km | Walking time |
| Singapore Flyer | 850 mt | 11 min |
| Gardens by the Bay | 850 mt | 10 min |
| Arab Street | 2.4 km | 30 min |
| Clarke Quay | 2.8 km | 34 min |
| China Town | 2.2 km | 28 min |
| Orchard Road | 3.6 km | 46 min |
| Merlion Park | 1.6 km | 21 min |
| Raffles Long Bar | 1.9 km | 24 min |
Marina Bay is a great central location to many of the best attractions but unfortunately cheap hotels and marina Bay don’t go hand in hand.
MRT (train) information
- Closest Station – Marina Bay MRT
- North South Line & the Circle Line ( 2 of 6 main lines)
Hotels and Hostels for your budget
Hostels (pricing through Hostel World)
Unfortunately there are no hostels in Marina bay precinct
The Marina Bay area is all about luxury when it comes to hotels. Budget hotels are not a thing here but you can get some really good rates on 5 star accommodation.
For families seeking a cheap hotel, I suggest looking a bit further out such as Clarke Quay. Furama Hotel has good priced family rooms ( 2 children stay free of charge plus the hotel has a pool.)
Ascott Raffles Place – studio with kitchen – guest rating 9.0/10
From USD $268- go to USA site / From AUD $366 – go to Australia site
Orchard Road
Best area to stay in Singapore for high end shopping
About the area
One word, fashion!
Orchard Road is where you will find all the top international brands. But you will find discount outlets and boutique stores here also.
Attractions near Orchard Road
Singapore Botanic Gardens
A tropical paradise of over 200 acres. Cost FREE / open 5 am to midnight
Ion Orchard
A major shopping mall of over 300 brands. Cost FREE / Open 10 am to 10 pm
Walking distance to major Singapore attractions
| Orchard Road walking distance to: | Distance in km | Walking time |
| Singapore Flyer | 3.2 km | 42 min |
| Gardens by the Bay | 3.7 km | 49 min |
| Marina Bay Sands | 3.6 km | 46 min |
| Arab Street | 2.6 km | 33 min |
| China Town | 2.9 km | 37 min |
| Merlion Park | 2.7 km | 35 min |
| Clarke Quay | 1.9 km | 24 min |
| Raffles Long Bar | 1.8 km | 23 min |
Orchard Road is further from many main attractions compared to others areas of Singapore.
MRT (train) information
- Closest Station: Orchard MRT station
- Connected by North South Line & Thompson East Coast Line (2 of 6 main lines)
Hotels and Hostels for your budget
Hostels (pricing through Hostel World)
YMCA @ One Orchard – private rooms only – Superior Twin Private Ensuite – From USD $95 / AUD $129
Hotel – twin share (pricing through Hotels.com – every 10th night free)
Hotel 81 Selegie – Standard Room – Guest rating 6.6/10
From USD $58- go to USA site / From AUD $79 – go to Australia site
Ibis Budget – Standard Room – Guest Rating 7.8/10
From USD $84- go to USA site / From AUD $116 – go to Australia site
Family (2 adults + 2 children)
Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre -2 double beds – guest rating 8.6/10
From USD $196- go to USA site / From AUD $268 – go to Australia site
Sentosa Island
Best area to stay in Singapore for family fun activities
About the area
Sentosa Island is everything that’s fun and adventurous.
For those lucky enough to stay on the island such as at Resorts World Sentosa it is simply amazing, but for the budget traveller it’s way too expensive, at around $300 minimum per night.
Connected by monorail , bus, cable car, road or pedestrian bridge, Sentosa Island has a tonne of family orientated activities to do. In fact, if you decide to make the most out of your stay here, you may need quite a few days in Singapore.
The island has a distinct separate feel, swapping out the urban side and replacing it with beaches and various resorts. It almost feels a world away, yet it is so close to Downtown Singapore.
Even if you don’t stay here, it is worth a day visit for sure.
Attraction on Sentosa Island
A fun family theme park with 7 different themed areas and over 24 rides, shows and other attractions. Cost from $81. Please check the website or revised times.
Home to over 100,000 marine animals over 50 different habitats. Cost: $41 SGD . Please check the website for revised times. .
Grab the kids and hit the tracks for a fun luge ride. Includes a skyline ride. Cost from $25 SGD Open 11 am to 7.30 pm
Palawan Beach
A safe and popular beach for families on Sentosa Island. Cost FREE Open all day
Jump on the cable car for a scenic ride – access to both the Sentosa & Mount Faber lines. Cost from $24.40 SGD. Please check the website for revised times.
Adventure Cove Water Park
Thrilling water slides, lazy river rafting and snorkeling with thousands of tropical fish. Cost from $30 SGD Please check the website for revised times.
Getting from Sentosa to Singapore Attractions
Walking from Sentosa island to major attractions in Singapore is off the cards, as it is too far on foot. (around 8.3 km each way) . Also, the MRT does not extend to the island.
Instead you can read here how to get on and off the island.
Hotels and Hostels for your budget
Sentosa Island was named the most expensive island in South East Asia. So no budget options unfortunately.
Also, rates fluctuate rapidly dependent on time of year so rather than giving you an average price, you can click the links and add your dates to get an idea.
Accommodation on Sentosa Island
Instead I would consider staying at Harbourfront on the mainland and walking over the footbridge to Sentosa island. You can expect it to take 30 minutes on foot to reach Universal Studios Singapore and SEA Aquarium.
Hostels (pricing through Hostel World)
Unfortunately there are no hostels in or neat Sentosa island
Hotel – twin share (pricing through Hotels.com – every 10th night free)
Harbour Ville Hotel – standard room – Guest Rating 6.8/10
From USD $58 – go to USA site / From AUD $80 – go to Australia site
Ibis Budget – Mount Faber – Standard room – Guest Rating 7.4/10
From USD $78 – go to USA site / From AUD $108 – go to Australia site
Family (2 adults + 2 children)
Travelodge Harbourfront – multiple beds – Guest Rating 7.6/10
From USD $208 – go to USA site / From AUD $284 – go to Australia site
S
save up to 50 % on attractions
Best area to Stay in Singapore Round Up
So what do you think is the best area to stay in Singapore?
Hopefully you have some clarity on where to stay in Singapore and if you still can’t decide, not to worry.
This is where I stayed and why:
Bugis Street was my choice for these reasons:
- I could walk to all the major attractions.
- It felt really central to heading either north, south, east or west.
- The area provided a range of hotels for different budgets
Need help planning an international trip?
Planning a trip overseas that you can actually afford
Booking resources for affordable travel with benefits.
CheapOAir – for cheap flights including all the budget airlines
Viator – for day tours from a range of tour suppliers
Booking.com – the biggest range of hotels / apartments / entire homes
Hotels.com +plus get a free night for every 10 nights you save up.
Expedia – Book your flight and hotel together to get great discounts. Plus cruises.
