Insider’s Guide to 12 Top Hotels in Singapore

Singapore is a global hub celebrated for its multicultural landscape, architecture, and verdant urban environments. Within this dynamic setting, the city’s luxury accommodations distinguish themselves through unparalleled service, sophisticated design, and forward-thinking amenities. This guide explores Singapore’s finest hotels, spotlighting establishments that deliver exceptional experiences for those pursuing opulence and visitors traveling on business or for pleasure. Each hotel selected for this guide embodies the unique character of Singapore, offering insights into the city’s rich heritage and contemporary lifestyle.

1. W Hotel Singapore – Sentosa Cove

Image credit: W Hotel Singapore – Sentosa Cove

The W Hotel Singapore – Sentosa Cove distinguishes itself within Singapore’s luxury accommodation sector through its strategic location in Sentosa Cove and its essence of the city’s dynamic spirit. The hotel’s design philosophy mirrors the city’s blend of modernity and lush tropical landscapes, offering guests a retreat from the urban rush without sacrificing the vibrancy and cultural richness of the city. Each room and suite is crafted to balance contemporary luxury and comfort, ensuring a stylish and relaxing stay.

Dining at the W Hotel is highlighted by the SKIRT Restaurant, renowned for its avant-garde culinary techniques and selection of premium ingredients, offering a unique gastronomic experience. The recent renovations of the WET Deck, ballroom, and meeting spaces have further enhanced the hotel’s offerings, providing guests with sophisticated venues for relaxation, social events, and business gatherings. These upgrades reflect the hotel’s commitment to innovation and excellence, catering to the diverse needs of its guests and positioning the W Hotel Singapore – Sentosa Cove as a premier destination for discerning travelers.

Insider’s Tip: Take advantage of the hotel’s Whatever/Whenever service for personalized experiences, from yacht charters to custom dining setups by the pool.

How to Get There: Accessible by taxi or bus from the mainland, the hotel is a short drive across the Sentosa Gateway.

2. Shangri-La Hotel Singapore

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Nestled amidst 15 acres of lush tropical gardens, Shangri-La Hotel Singapore is an urban oasis for leisure and business travelers located in the heart of the city. The hotel offers a range of accommodations, from the luxurious Tower Wing with its contemporary guestrooms to the more exclusive Valley Wing, known for its unparalleled service and privacy. The hotel’s extensive facilities include a spa, health club, several award-winning restaurants, and the unique Buds by Shangri-La, an interactive play space for children.

Insider’s Tip: Guests staying in the Valley Wing enjoy complimentary champagne, wine, and cocktails throughout the day in the private Summit Room.

How to Get There: The hotel is conveniently located on Orange Grove Road, just a short drive from Orchard Road, and easily accessible by taxi or public transport from anywhere in the city.

3. Marina Bay Sands

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Marina Bay Sands is an iconic landmark of Singapore’s skyline, known for its extraordinary design, luxury accommodations, and unmatched city views. The hotel features the world’s largest rooftop Infinity Pool, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline. Its integration with the Marina Bay Sands Mall, ArtScience Museum, and direct access to the Singapore Grand Prix circuit, positions it as a premier choice for luxury and convenience.

Insider’s Tip: Book a Club Room or Suite for access to the Sands SkyPark Infinity Pool and the Club Lounge, where complimentary breakfast and evening cocktails are served against stunning city views.

How to Get There: Marina Bay Sands is centrally located and accessible by MRT, with Bayfront Station providing direct access.

4. Raffles Hotel

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Raffles Hotel is a colonial-style luxury hotel synonymous with Singapore’s history. Since its opening in 1887, it has hosted celebrities, royalty, and dignitaries. The hotel’s elegant suites, exquisite dining options, and the legendary Long Bar – the birthplace of the Singapore Sling – offer guests a taste of Singapore’s colonial past blended with modern luxury.

Insider’s Tip: Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in the Grand Lobby, a quintessential Raffles experience.

How to Get There: Raffles Hotel is located in the heart of the city, easily accessible by MRT (City Hall or Esplanade stations), and a short walk from central shopping districts.

5. The Fullerton Bay Hotel

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The Fullerton Bay Hotel offers guests waterfront elegance and panoramic views of Marina Bay. The hotel’s architecture combines the city’s rich heritage and contemporary design. Rooms and suites are lavishly appointed, with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the stunning Singapore skyline. The hotel’s rooftop pool and Lantern Bar provide an exquisite setting for relaxation and socializing.

Insider’s Tip: Request a room facing Marina Bay for the best views, especially during the National Day fireworks display.

How to Get There: Located in the Marina Bay area, the hotel is accessible by MRT (Raffles Place Station) and a short walk from the financial district.

6. The St. Regis Singapore

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The St. Regis Singapore, situated in the prestigious Orchard Road neighborhood, epitomizes timeless elegance and unparalleled service. The hotel boasts one of Asia’s finest private art collections, opulent rooms, and the signature St. Regis Butler Service. Its award-winning Remède Spa and exquisite dining venues, including Brasserie Les Saveurs, offer indulgent experiences.

Insider’s Tip: Utilize the St. Regis Butler Service for personalized assistance, from unpacking and packing services to bespoke in-room dining experiences.

How to Get There: The hotel is a short distance from Orchard MRT station, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the city.

7. Capella Singapore

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Capella Singapore on Sentosa Island offers a luxurious retreat set amidst lush greenery and overlooking the South China Sea. The hotel blends Singapore’s rich colonial heritage with contemporary design, offering spacious villas and manors with private plunge pools. Capella’s personalized service, including dedicated Personal Assistants, ensures a bespoke experience for every guest.

Insider’s Tip: Book a session at the Auriga Spa, known for its holistic treatments inspired by the lunar cycles, for a truly rejuvenating experience.

How to Get There: Capella Singapore is a 15-minute drive from the mainland via Sentosa Gateway. Complimentary shuttle services are available for hotel guests.

8. Andaz Singapore

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Andaz Singapore, a concept by Hyatt, offers a fresh take on luxury with its vibrant design and innovative approach to hospitality. The hotel is in the Duo Galleria and boasts stunning city views from its guestrooms and rooftop bar, Mr. Stork. The hotel’s interior design reflects the cultural heritage of its Bugis neighborhood, blending traditional Singaporean elements with modern aesthetics. Dining options include Alley on 25, a unique ‘street dining’ experience, and the 665°F steakhouse on the 38th floor.

Insider’s Tip: Visit Mr. Stork, the rooftop bar, for 360-degree city views and unique teepee hut seating, making it a perfect spot for sunset cocktails.

How to Get There: The hotel is centrally located in Bugis, easily reachable by MRT (Bugis station) and a network of buses.

9. The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore

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The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore is synonymous with timeless luxury and impeccable service. Situated in Marina Bay, the hotel offers panoramic views of the Singapore skyline and Marina Bay Sands from its spacious rooms and suites. The hotel is renowned for its 4,200-piece contemporary art collection, including works by Frank Stella and Dale Chihuly. Culinary delights await at the Michelin-starred Summer Pavilion and the Colony, which offers a unique British-colonial-themed buffet experience.

Insider’s Tip: Request a Marina Bay view room for an unforgettable view of the city’s skyline, especially stunning during the Marina Bay Singapore Countdown fireworks display.

How to Get There: Located in the heart of Marina Bay, the hotel is a short distance from the Promenade MRT station and accessible by various bus routes.

10. Sofitel Singapore City Centre

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Sofitel Singapore City Centre demonstrates French elegance and cosmopolitan sophistication in the heart of Singapore’s CBD. Each guestroom combines French design with local touches, offering luxury and comfort. The hotel’s 1864 bar serves up bespoke cocktails and a wide selection of teas, while Racines restaurant offers both French and Chinese cuisines prepared in show kitchens. The hotel also features a 30-meter infinity pool and the SoFit gym, ensuring guests can relax and recharge in style.

Insider’s Tip: Take advantage of the hotel’s location to explore the nearby Chinatown district, where traditional shops and modern cafes glimpse Singapore’s rich culture.

How to Get There: The hotel is directly accessible from Tanjong Pagar MRT station, making it a convenient choice for travelers.

11. PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay

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PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay is Singapore’s first ‘garden-in-a-hotel,’ integrating lush greenery with modern architecture and sustainable practices. The hotel’s atrium is a stunning, sky-lit oasis featuring a 13-meter tall green wall and a spectacular indoor garden. Guestrooms are designed with eco-friendly materials and offer city or bay views. The hotel also boasts one of Singapore’s largest collections of Southeast Asian art, enhancing the cultural experience for guests.

Insider’s Tip: Don’t miss the chance to dine at Peppermint, the hotel’s farm-to-table restaurant, offering healthy and sustainable dining options with ingredients sourced from local and regional farms.

How to Get There: Situated in the Marina Bay area, the hotel is easily accessible by MRT, with the Esplanade and Promenade stations nearby.

12. The Warehouse Hotel

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The Warehouse Hotel, located on the banks of the Singapore River, is a boutique hotel with a rich history. Originally built in 1895 as a warehouse, the building has been carefully restored to offer a unique blend of industrial heritage and contemporary design. The hotel’s 37 rooms feature a minimalist aesthetic focusing on quality materials and craftsmanship. The Lobby Bar and Po Restaurant offer innovative takes on local cuisine, making it a favorite among foodies.

Insider’s Tip: Try the hotel’s signature cocktail, the Warehouse Negroni, inspired by its spice trade history, for a taste of the past with a modern twist.

How to Get There: The hotel is in the Robertson Quay area, accessible by taxi or a short walk from Fort Canning MRT station.

When to Travel

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Singapore, a city-state known for its perpetual summer, offers a vibrant calendar of events and festivals throughout the year, making any time a good time to visit. However, specific periods stand out for their special events and festive seasons, enhancing the travel experience with unique cultural insights and celebrations. From vibrant cultural festivals and world-class sporting events to culinary celebrations and arts festivals, the city-state is alive with activities throughout the year. These events showcase Singapore’s diverse heritage and its modern, innovative spirit. Whether you’re a foodie, art enthusiast, shopaholic, or sports fan, Singapore’s event lineup promises memorable experiences against the backdrop of one of Asia’s most dynamic cities.

Pongal Harvest Festival (January)

A Tamil celebration marking the end of the harvest season with colorful rituals, street parades, and cultural performances.

Chinese New Year (Late January or February)

The city bursts into celebrations with dragon dances, fireworks, and festive markets in Chinatown.

Singapore Design Week (March)

A showcase of cutting-edge design across various industries, featuring exhibitions, workshops, and talks.

Singapore International Film Festival (April)

Highlights the best of Asian and international cinema, offering screenings, panel discussions, and director Q&As.

Vesak Day (May)

Buddhist temples across the city are adorned with decorations, and devotees participate in candlelit processions and rituals.

The Great Singapore Sale (June)

A shopping extravaganza with massive discounts and deals across the city’s malls and shopping districts.

Singapore Food Festival (July)

Celebrates Singapore’s culinary heritage with food trails, cooking workshops, and themed dining experiences.

National Day (9th August)

Commemorates Singapore’s independence with a spectacular parade, aerial displays, and fireworks over Marina Bay.

Singapore Grand Prix (September)

The only Formula 1 night race set against the stunning Marina Bay Street Circuit, coupled with concerts and entertainment.

Mid-Autumn Festival (September)

The city glows with lantern displays, mooncake tastings, and cultural performances.

Deepavali (October or November)

Little India lights up with dazzling decorations, street markets, and cultural activities to celebrate the Festival of Lights.

Singapore Writers Festival (November)

A gathering of writers, poets, and thinkers from around the world, featuring readings, debates, and workshops.

ZoukOut (December)

Asia’s largest beach party and music festival brings top international DJs and artists to the shores of Sentosa.

Christmas Light-Up (December)

Orchard Road dazzles with festive decorations, light installations, and holiday markets, creating a magical Christmas atmosphere.

The Bottom Line

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Singapore’s luxury hotels are gateways to experiencing the city’s rich tapestry of culture, history, and modernity. Whether you’re seeking a retreat in the heart of the city or an escape to an island paradise, these hotels offer unparalleled experiences that cater to your every desire. As you plan your journey to this vibrant city-state, let these destinations guide you to the extraordinary, where every stay promises to be an unforgettable part of your Singapore adventure.