Best area to stay in Singapore for great cheap hotels

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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

Read more here

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 - street view of colourful buildings
The area of kampong Glam

Best area to stay in Singapore

Central Region red – highlighted in map of 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?

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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.

best area to stay in Singapore - a front on view Buddha tooth relic temple in Singapore
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Singapore

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 kmWalking time
Marina Bay Sands2.2 km28 min
Singapore Flyer3.0 km36 min
Gardens by the Bay2.3 km29 min
Arab Street2.8 km36 min
Orchard Road3.2 km42 min
Clarke Quay1.4 km17 min
Merlion Park1.7 km21 min
Raffles Long Bar1.9 km24 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

best area to stay in Singapore - a close up of multi color buildings in Little India Singapore
Colorful facade of building in Little India, Singapore

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 kmWalking time
Marina Bay Sands3.8 km48 min
Singapore Flyer2.6 km33 min
Gardens by the Bay3.2 km41 min
Arab Street0.9 km12 min
China Town3.4 km43 mins
Orchard Road3.5 km44 min
Merlion Park2.8 km37 min
Raffles Long Bar1.6 km21 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

best area to stay in singapore - street market near Bugis Street

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 kmWalking time
Singapore Flyer1.8 km23 min
Gardens by the Bay2.2 km28 min
Marina Bay Sands2.6 km33 min
Arab Street500 mt6 min
China Town2.6 km33 min
Orchard Road3.1 km40 min
Clarke Quay1.8 km23 min
Merlion Park1.8 km23 min
Raffles Long Bar750 mt10 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

best area to stay in Singapore - bumboat on the Singapore RIver with Marina bay Sands in the back ground

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

Singapore River Cruise

– 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 kmWalking time
Marina Bay Sands2.8 km34 min
Singapore Flyer2.4 km30 min
Gardens by the Bay2.6 km33 min
Arab Street2.2 km28 min
China Town1.4 km17 mins
Orchard Road1.9 km24 min
Merlion Park1.3 km16 min
Raffles Long Bar1.5 km19 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

Singapore Flexi Pass

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Marina Bay

Best area to stay for attractions and luxury

best area to stay in Singapore - marina Bay sands at night

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

Gardens by the 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

Marina Bay Sands Sky Park

– at the top of Marina Bay Sands is the observation deck. With breath taking views across the entire city.

Singapore Flyer

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 kmWalking time
Singapore Flyer850 mt11 min
Gardens by the Bay850 mt10 min
Arab Street2.4 km30 min
Clarke Quay2.8 km34 min
China Town2.2 km28 min
Orchard Road3.6 km46 min
Merlion Park1.6 km21 min
Raffles Long Bar1.9 km24 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

Hotels – twin share (pricing through Hotels.com – every 10th night free)

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

best area to stay in singapore - a street sign showing direction of Orchard road

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 kmWalking time
Singapore Flyer3.2 km42 min
Gardens by the Bay3.7 km49 min
Marina Bay Sands3.6 km46 min
Arab Street2.6 km33 min
China Town2.9 km37 min
Merlion Park2.7 km35 min
Clarke Quay1.9 km24 min
Raffles Long Bar1.8 km23 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

best area to stay in singapore - airial shot of Sentosa resorts World

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

Universal Studios

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.

S.E.A Aquarium

Home to over 100,000 marine animals over 50 different habitats. Cost: $41 SGD . Please check the website for revised times. .

Skyline Luge

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

Singapore Cable Car

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

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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

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