Are you considering visiting Singapore in the near future? The stunning city-state offers several fabulous experiences for you. However, you’ll have to plan your itinerary smartly in order to get the most out of your trip, while choosing the right accommodation options as well. Let’s look at the top neighbourhoods in Singapore for your stay, local experiences you can’t miss, and of course, the best flexible accommodation options at hand.
Best Local Experiences in Singapore
You should aim to tick off as many of these fabulous local experiences as possible:
- Eating like a local at the famous Maxwell Food Centre, including their iconic chicken rice or at the Chinatown Food Complex (Michelin-guide street food at affordable rates). Trust us, your taste buds will thank you later!
- Wandering through the colourful streets of the diverse Little India neighbourhood, finding historic temples in Chinatown, including the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, and viewing the vibrant Peranakan shophouses in Joo Chiat.
- Taking a lovely stroll through the mega Gardens by the Bay, with its Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and Supertree Grove. Don’t miss the Garden Rhapsody nightly light show here.
- Enjoying a traditional bumboat ride to view the glimmering Singapore skyline and famous quays from Clarke Quay.
- Stopping at Merlion Park to take a photograph with the famous statue and watching the Spectra light show at the popular Marina Bay Sands.
- Exploring the massive and futuristic Jewel Changi Airport, including its Rain Vortex, the tallest indoor waterfall in the world.
- Exploring the UNESCO-listed Singapore Botanic Gardens and taking a Night Safari, the first in the world, to view wildlife in a nocturnal setting!
- Trying authentic Katong Laksa and visiting the Peranakan houses.
- Experiencing the magic of Sentosa Island with cable car rides, a trip to the famous Fort Siloso, and beachside relaxation.
These are some of the must-try local activities and experiences when you’re in Singapore. Now, which are the best places to stay in the city-state? Let’s find out below.
Top Neighbourhoods to Stay in Singapore
Whether you are visiting for business or leisure, you can choose from a range of well-connected and vibrant neighbourhoods across Singapore. These areas offer excellent transport links and lifestyle conveniences, along with a wide selection of hotels, short-term rentals, and fully furnished accommodation across Singapore, suitable for both short and extended stays.
- Marina Bay:
It is an ideal location if you’re more into luxury and sightseeing. First-timers may actually consider staying here for its central location. You’ll find almost everything close by, including the Merlion Park, Gardens by the Bay, ArtScience Museum, and the Marina Bay Sands. The area is also easily accessible through the MRT network (Raffles Place and Bayfront), while the atmosphere here is upscale and more contemporary.
- Orchard Road:
This is the shopping hub of Singapore, with its luxury malls like ION Orchard and numerous high-end retail stores and other outlets. You’ll also find plenty of amazing dining choices in the locality while staying close to the Botanic Gardens. There are several MRT stations nearby, including Somerset and Orchard, while the cosmopolitan environment is another plus point.
- Chinatown:
If culture and food are what you’re interested in, this is the place to be! It’s got several attractions like the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, lovely street markets, and of course, the Maxwell Food Centre. You’ll also find more affordable accommodation here, along with great connectivity through the Chinatown MRT.
- Little India:
Another culture-rich neighbourhood, this one also offers more affordable accommodation choices along with a diverse, aromatic, and colourful vibe. You’ll love the attractions here, including the Mustafa Centre for 24-hour shopping and the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. The Little India MRT network is also easily accessible here.
- Sentosa Island:
If you’re more into an island lifestyle with beachside relaxation and are travelling with your kids, Sentosa Island makes a strong case for itself. You’ll find the S.E.A. Aquarium here, along with Universal Studios Singapore and the Adventure Cove Waterpark. The resort-style vibe will keep you hooked, while there are plenty of connectivity options like the cable car, taxis, and Sentosa Express monorail.
- Bugis and Bencoolen:
This is where you’ll find mid-range accommodation options along with several cultural landmarks like Kampong Glam, Arab Street, and the lovely Bugis Street Market. It’s a central yet affordable location with great connectivity through the Bugis and Bencoolen MRT networks. This is one of the hippest localities you’ll find in Singapore.
- Clarke Quay:
This one’s ideal for nightlife lovers! The Clarke Quay MRT connections are excellent, while you’ll love the youthful and vibrant atmosphere of the neighbourhood. It’s ideal for amazing river cruises and riverside dining as well.
Flexible Stays in Singapore- Your Top Choices
Now that you’ve got an idea of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Singapore, it’s time to look at some flexible stays in the city. It will suit those who want more flexible lease terms, enabling them to stay as long as they like without any rigid terms like hotels or major commitments. Whether you are planning a short-term visit or an extended stay, you can rely on professionally managed serviced apartments designed for comfort and flexibility.
You’ll find convenient leases, including weekly leases, month-to-month leases, and more. The rates are competitive and all-inclusive (utilities, internet, services), while you also get more space than hotels (studio to 3-bedroom apartment options) and higher privacy.
Cook meals in well-equipped kitchens to save money on dining out regularly, while getting access to top-class amenities and services like housekeeping and laundry. There are apartments tailored for corporations, families, and other travel groups in prime locations. If flexibility is what you’re looking for to explore Singapore at your own pace, perhaps get some work done, or a bit of both, these are your top options.
