The best hotels for a staycation in Singapore

Raffles is like the hotel you need to go to at least once in your lifetime. Housed in an iconic building from 1887, it provides a relaxing getaway in the heart of the city. In recent years, it’s undergone a massive refurbishment by acclaimed interior designer Alexandra Champalimaud. So expect beautiful interiors with antique furnishings, fine carpets, and teak wood flooring. There’s a choice of six suite categories, including three new ones: Residence, Promenade, and Studio Suites. It’s here you’ll also find a whopping 14 dining options – including BBR by Alain Ducasse and the Raffles Courtyard – and a shopping arcade. And if you're looking for the famous Singapore Sling? Head up to the hotel's Long Bar.

Treat yourself and your loved ones to a staycation with picture-perfect views of the Marina Bay at Mandarin Oriental, Singapore. Inside the architectural masterpiece by John Portman, you’ll find interiors that evoke modern sophistication. Soak up views from the private balcony of the Premier Room, spend quality time with a small group of friends in the one-bedroom City Suite. Each guest room is outfitted with plush patterned carpets and wood-panelled walls, featuring oriental influences and motifs combined with sprawling views of the city, bay or ocean.

Cool down and take a dip in the stunning 25-metre outdoor pool while gazing out at spectacular views of the Marina Bay; or pamper yourself to an indulgent treatment at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Singapore.

Time Out Singapore in partnership with Mandarin Oriental, Singapore 

Strike the right balance between staying within walking distance of the Orchard shopping belt while luxuriating in complete bliss at Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore. Set amidst 15 acres of lush gardens, Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore is a sanctuary just seven minutes from the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road. You can choose to stay in one of the three distinctive wings, whether it’s the newly rejuvenated Tower Wing, the tropical Garden Wing, or ultra-lavish Valley Wing. 

A staycation at the Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore is great for foodies. With the hotel’s extensive range of culinary options, you'd be spoilt for choice. Choose from eight restaurants and bars and a total of 11 dining concepts: from a sumptuous array of local heritage hawker dishes at The Lobby Lounge, to an all-day international buffet at The Line, featuring 16 live kitchens and dishes that are freshly prepared a la minute. There's also farm-to-table meals made with premium produce sourced from around the world at Origin Grill – not to mention stellar tipples at the bar for a nightcap before you head back up to your room for a good night's sleep. 

And if you're looking to pamper yourself or your loved ones, the hotel is also home to Chi, The Spa. The spa offers holistic treatments based on time-honoured methods shared by many Asian cultures, using natural ingredients for the its signature revitalising and therapeutic treatments.

For more info, visit www.shangri-la.com/singapore/shangrila

Time Out Singapore in partnership with Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore

Immerse yourself in a luxury-drenched world with a stay at The Vagabond Club. The opulent boutique hotel offers three unique themed packages, each with a night’s stay in one of its 41 impressively decorated rooms. Know a whiskey lover? Surprise them with ‘All I Want For Christmas is Whiskey’, which comes with a lavish seven-course Yellow Pot dinner paired with seven fine dram varieties from The Whiskey Library. Foodies will enjoy the ‘Experience Yellow Pot Staycation’, where stays come accompanied with a three-course dinner at the famed Chinese restaurant. Alternatively, explore the charms of the neighbourhood with a guided bespoke tour as part of the ‘Discover Little India Vagabond Style’ package. You’ll see the colourful district in a new light with the two-hour walking tour. 

Time Out Singapore in partnership with The Vagabond Club

The Clan Hotel Singapore is wedged at the crossroads of culture and commerce. Stay here and you’re within walking distance from Raffles Place and Tanjong Pagar; cultural sites around Chinatown; and chic hangouts like Marina Bay and Gardens by the Bay. The hotel has an inventory of 324 rooms across three distinct room categories, varying in price. Make sure to check out QIN Restaurant and Bar, an all-day dining concept by Tunglok Group, where you’ll find an array of reimagined classics with a modern touch, flanked by floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the busy Telok Ayer neighbourhood. The hotel's sky pool and hot tub are probably the crowning glories, complete with a bird's eye view of the surrounding heritage district. 

Book a staycation in this eco-friendly hotel nestled in Chinatown. PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering is a garden oasis in downtown Singapore. Around you, you've got Chinatown, Raffles Place, and Clarke Quay, so it's a prime location. Book the Urban Room, complete with views of the vibrant Chinatown district, or the Lifestyle Room, which boasts large windows and impressive views of Hong Lim Park. In need of a little refreshment? Swim a few laps in the outdoor infinity pool, surrounded by lush landscaped gardens before heading for breakfast at Lime Restaurant. It's sure to get your day off to a strong start. 

Another hotel is set to debut in the heart of Orchard Road this coming March 2022 – and it'll take over the current Mandarin Orchard Singapore. Set to be one of the largest hotels in Singapore, the new hotel will boast 1,080 refurbished rooms and suites across two towers. 

Once opened, it will also be a dining destination in its own right, with five curated dining concepts including the award-winning Chatterbox, two Michelin-starred Shisen Hanten and three new food and beverage offerings featuring an all-day dining, a specialty restaurant and a lobby lounge and bar. 

Hilton Orchard Singapore is opening for reservations from April 2022.

voco Orchard Singapore is a new hotel on Orchard Road, found in a 51-year-old (ancient for Singapore) building that houses 423 guestrooms alongside four popular restaurants and bars. These include Opus Bar and Grill, D9 Cakery, il Cielo and Iggy’s, a rooftop swimming pool, a 24-hour gym, and over 1,850sqm of meeting and social event spaces. You’ll be a five-minute walk away from ION Shopping Centre, a 10-minute drive from Marina Bay and City Hall, and a 20-minute drive from Changi International Airport. Meanwhile, the rooms themselves boast city views, modern interiors, and a relaxed, if a little corporate, feel.

Set against a lush rainforest, old meets new seamlessly at Sentosa’s six-star luxury hotel, where modern fixtures hug restored colonial buildings. Spend an afternoon taking a dip in the resort's cascading pools, admiring the architecture, having a Mediterranean breakfast at The Knolls, or simply luxuriating in the in-room bathtub. Accommodation here comes in the form of 112 rooms, suites, and villas. Retreat into the Premier Seaview Room, which boasts views of the surrounding seascape right from the plush king-sized bed while playing tunes from the BOSE sound system or watching your favourite flicks on the 46-inch flat-screen LCD TV. Alternatively, kick back on the sunbed on the spacious balcony or soak in the luxurious in-room bathtub. 

Watch your monochrome Instagram feed goals come to life at Hotel Mono. Set in six restored, traditional heritage shophouses, the boutique hotel boasts 46 rooms in the heart of Chinatown. Its original buildings retain their charm with characteristic air wells and Rococo-era windows, seamlessly interweaving with the culture of traditional Singapore and a cosmopolitan. And if it's nightlife you're looking for, the ever-bustling Clarke Quay is just a short distance away. Perfect for sightseeing, dinner, cocktails, and sinking into bed after a successful night on the town.

In a warehouse that sits along the old Straits of Malacca trade route and the former epicentre of Singapore’s red-light district, The Lo & Behold Group took the building’s 120-year history in its hands and spun it on its head. The hotel’s plush lounge faces the lobby bar, so if you’d rather relax away from the soft beats and chatter, the rooftop infinity pool – fitted with salmon pink tiles, no less – offers the reprieve you desire. Each room has a stylish feel with wooden panels, sleek beams, and a custom pillow-top king mattress. Meanwhile, the cheeky, open-concept shower makes it seductively easy to stay in your room all day. For a loft-style upgrade, book the River View Suite, which overlooks the Singapore River. 

The coolest new kid on Keong Saik, the intimate 45-room Hotel Soloha evokes tropical modernism that juxtaposes against the earthy tones of the surrounding neighbourhood. Hotel Soloha is situated right in the heart of Singapore; within proximity to popular spots such as Chinatown, Ann Siang Hill, and Maxwell Food Centre. Swing through the wooden panel doors of the white and blue facade, you'll be greeted by witty and bold interiors and artisanal furnishings. For our full review, read our staycation spotlight.

The hottest new hotel in town, PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay, Singapore takes over the iconic architecture of the former Marina Mandarin. After a long day, snuggle up in its elegant rooms featuring dramatic views of the Singapore skyline, indulge in a range of dining options such as Peach Blossoms, Peppermint and Ruth's Chris Steak House, or take a refreshing dip in the mineral water pool.

Soak up incredible views from one of The Ritz-Carlton’s 608 rooms or even by the windows at the lift lobby. You’ll look over unobstructed scenery, from the Singapore River to the big blue sea, available all throughout your stay. As you’d expect, they get better the higher up you go. So, venture up to the peak of the 32-storey building, where you’ll find the Club Room. Splashing the cash? Go on and book into its Club Escape Staycation which grants you access to the Club Room and a stay at one of its prime rooms located on the top-most floors of the hotel. For more of what you can expect, read our review of The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore.

Enclosed with the space of five restored heritage shophouses is Duxton Reserve, a boutique hotel dripping with old-world glamour. Clad in black and gold, designer Anouska Hempel (also an ex-Bond girl) imbued within the four walls of the property an eclectic East-meets-West aesthetic – with ornate French windows, Chinoiserie fixtures, and calligraphy wallpaper.

Black walls and gold accents dominate the hotel’s 49 guest rooms and suites. Lead-in rooms, however, are a minimalist haven dressed in monochromatic hues. For an opulent stay, consider the Skylight Executive Club Suite. The mood-lit interior features a spacious living area, low-slung furniture, and decorative frames. Anchoring the room is a grand four-poster bed fitted with organic mattress, pillows, and buttery cotton linen.

The glamourous property also plays home to Anouska’s Bar, named after the property's designer, and fine-dining Chinese restaurant Yellow Pot. 

You don’t need to jet off to Bali when you’ve got a spot like this right on your doorstep. With its monochromatic colour palette and unassuming décor, Lloyd’s Inn is at the top of its minimalism game. Spend your days lounging around the pool, reading books on the roof terrace and having drinks on the modern garden deck. Go all-out and nab a Big Skyroom where you can bask in your private outdoor bathtub to your heart’s content. How dreamy does that sound?

With its eclectic mix of brightly-coloured traditional rattan chairs and corridor art accents, along with a rooftop pool that sees through into the communal breakfast area on the first floor, Hi Boutique Hotel is a unique property that you have to see for yourself. Centrally located in the Bugis precinct, the hotel has a total of 15 rooms available with three various types to choose from: Superior, Deluxe, and Junior Suite. Each room is uniquely designed with the same minimal setting, pops of colours, and unique pieces of art by both local and international artists. Technology is the star here at Hi Hotel with the HANDY smartphone. Given to guests at check-in with the QR code to unlock your room door, it also allows you to control the room features directly from your phone – whether it's to switch off the lights, draw the curtains, or switch on the air conditioner.  

M Social is aimed at the young, tech-savvy crowd: there are self-check-in counters and automated room service robots that’ll bring you anything from linen to cutlery. The rooms have cool features, too – the Alcove Cosy Room has a four-metre-high pitched roof for a ‘hut’ vibe, while the Loft Gallery Room has a glass-ensconced duplex that makes the room feel much bigger than it really is. If you’re feeling peckish, grab a bite at the adjoining Beast and Butterflies, where the daily international buffet breakfast is served.

The oh-so luxurious Hotel Fort Canning offers complimentary WiFi, 2 outdoor pools and an exclusive pillow menu. In fact, there are even free evening drinks from 6 to 7pm at the private lounge and free self-parking for all in-house guests, which we think are nice extra touches for a staycation. It’s a two-minute walk to Fort Canning Park and an eight-minute walk to Orchard Road, while Clarke Quay is a five-minute drive away. Meanwhile, rooms come decked out with wooden floors, HD TV screens with satellite and cable channels, and beautiful park or city views. You can also enjoy a revitalising workout at the fitness centre or take a dip in one of the swimming pools.

Oasia Resort Sentosa is a 191-key wellness resort surrounded by the island's lush vegetation and scenic views. Make the most of its Asian-inspired spa offerings while you stay, making for one luxurious wellness experience in the heart of the island. You’ve also got a spectrum of thoughtful amenities and holistic programmes including HIIT and yoga classes, qi gong sessions, and well-being workshops hosted by partnering brands and the resort’s trained professionals. It’s also home to its signature restaurant, Bedrock Origin, a new sister restaurant to Singapore's award-winning Bedrock Bar & Grill.

Housed in a 1920’s building in Little India, the Wanderlust Hotel in Little India has undergone a complete transformation. The newly reimagined hotel merges old-world charm with essential modern-day comforts. Swing the doors of the adorned facade of the original Peranakan tiles and you'll step into a peaceful and inviting lobby, contrasting beautifully against the vibrant neighbourhood the hotel is in. Whether you're having a staycation with your special one or a group of friends, there is a range of accommodation for you to choose from – be it the Loft category, Studio category or the intimate Wanderlust Room. 

Conveniently located above Farrer Park MRT station, One Farrer Hotel and Spa offers an Olympic-size outdoor pool, a spa, suites and villas to cater to all business- and leisure seekers. There are five dining options in the hotel – the all-day restaurant Escape, the relaxed Local, Fresh and Seasonal Deli, poolside cafe Flip Flop and swoon-worthy Sunset Bar. But it's not just that. A stone's throw away is the 24-hour iconic Singapore institution Mustafa Centre and popular supper spot Swee Choon, perfect for you to browse the shopping aisles before heading down the road for some grub.

Nestled between the vibrant districts of Kampong Gelam and Bugis, Andaz Singapore is a modern addition to the heritage enclave. The rooms here feature locally-inspired designs in warm russet and mustard tones and wood-style tiling by architect Andre Fu, and air-conditioned rooms that have floor-to-ceiling windows which open up to views of the city. You'll also find they come fitted with a daybed and plush carpeting for extra cosiness. Head to the Sunroom and Andaz Lounge Hour for complimentary all-day refreshments, or take in panoramic city views of downtown Singapore from rooftop bar Mr Stork. 

The W Singapore is a sexy hotel. Beats thump through the lobby, beautiful people parade around the pool and red Prada leather adorns the lift walls. A staycation here is like peeping into the lifestyles of Sentosa Cove’s rich and famous – so don’t forget your polo tee and bug-eyed sunnies. If you want to ball hard, book out the Extreme WOW Suite. There’s a jacuzzi tub, a private lap pool and even a turntable with stacks of records to DJ your own bash. At more than ten grand a night, though, reserve this for a super special occasion.

Staying at Hotel 1929 is like a trip down memory lane. Located within a row of conserved five-foot-way shophouses, the hotel is filled with archival photos of olden-day Singapore dating back to the early 20th century. There are 32 rooms, split into five different categories (so there’s something for every budget), decked in an exciting blend of contemporary ad retro touches – meaning no two rooms look the same. Looking for places to chill? Lounge on The Patio, the hotel’s garden on the second floor. Meanwhile, brunch options come from gourmet deli The Provision Shop on the ground floor, which serves up your usual eggs Benny and not-so-usual wagyu beef burgers.

At Oasia Hotel Downtown, you can live in a plush apartment right in the heart of the city – even if only for a few days. Rooms here aren’t the largest, but that’s ok, because really you’re here for the location. Chill out at the Skyline Pavilion, which is only accessible to Club room guests, in the infinity lap pool that offers views of the CBD and Chinatown. Then upstairs, you’ve got two mirrored pools crown the hotel with swing chairs and pale blue chaises. As for food options, there’s The Marmalade Pantry which serves up international cuisine in the form of steak, pasta, sandwiches and a weekend brunch menu.

Spread across lush greenery, Sofitel Singapore Resort & Spa offers luxurious resort-styled accommodation with sweeping views of the sunset at Sentosa Island's iconic Tanjong Beach. Providing a variety of accommodation types that range from rooms to suites and even villas, each elegantly-designed guestroom is inspired by Paris’ Jardin du Luxembourg. Additionally, you’ve got four in-house restaurants, so you’re sure to satisfy any craving throughout your stay. You can also treat yourself to rejuvenating massages at So SPA, where ancient massage traditions meet the latest French cosmetology. It’s perfect for a little staycation luxury.

Singapore’s answer to Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel – minus the purple uniform–clad concierge and lobby boy. This pastel-hued, tropical-wallpapered dream pad is complete with Instagrammable opportunities at every nook and cranny – even in each spacious cocoon. There are five beautifully decorated room types adorned with retro furniture and bold wallpaper. Go big or go home with a night’s stay at The Great Suite, complete with a study and circular bathtub for a relaxing bubble bath.

Need a short island getaway? Check into this exclusive all-suite hotel at Sentosa, which has just been approved to accept staycation reservations. The hotel is within walking distance of attractions around Sentosa, such as Universal Studios Singapore, SEA Aquarium and Adventure Cove Waterpark. At the hotel, you've got an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a casino. Meanwhile, rooms come decked out in a simple yet effective fashion, with air-conditioned rooms with a desk, a kettle, a minibar, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a balcony and a private bathroom with a bath.

Checking into the Naumi Hotel isn’t just another cookie-cutter hospitality experience. The 40-room business luxury hotel is equipped with some of the niftiest extras any traveller, business or otherwise, could wish for. Molton Brown toiletries, a Nespresso machine, designer furniture like Poltrona Frau’s Don’do Rocking Chair and the all-important iPod docking station come standard in every room. Head up to the rooftop infinity pool offering sweeping views of the city skyline. 

Want to live like the rich and famous? You can for a short while at this chic Singapore hotel. Housed in a restored 1920 black-and-white garrison in Labrador Nature Reserve is Villa Samadhi Singapore. Travel back in time from its luxurious boutique-style rooms, each featuring preserved vintage centrepieces, lofty ceilings and teak furnishings. Some units even have a wooden bathtub and private plunge pools, which is a nice touch for sticky, humid days. You've also got the in-house restaurant, Tamarind Hill is a short stroll through the surrounding forest.

This upscale property in Sentosa exclusively caters to adults, so you can rest and rejuvenate without being distracted by little ones running around. Stay in one of the 193 stylish guest rooms with a sophisticated design inspired by Singapore's distinctive colonial black and white bungalows, with crisp, clean lines and a sharply contrasting palette. For a sundowner, head up to the lush rooftop boasting sweeping sea views. Take a dip in the pool exclusively for guests while ordering your favourite cocktails from the bar.