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Singapore may be small, but choosing where to stay can still feel overwhelming — each neighborhood has its own vibe, food scene, and cultural gems. Whether you’re into cool cafés in the middle of the action or hidden gems that will let you rub shoulders with locals, this guide breaks down the best neighborhoods in Singapore for each type of visitor to help you pick your perfect base.
If you’re wondering where to stay in Singapore, I’ve included a couple of standout hotels that are worth bookmarking and I’ve also linked to my full neighborhood guide for each one. Click through to explore each area in more depth and find the neighborhood that fits your trip best!
Short on time to plan your Singapore trip?
Here’s a mini guide with my top recs!
Where to stay:
My favorite neighborhoods:
Can’t-miss experience:
Stay connected:
More on Singapore:
Singapore Neighborhoods Map
Find all the spots featured in this post below!
Delve into Singapore
Don’t forget to check out the rest of my Singapore posts and guides if you’re still planning your perfect trip!
Where’s the Best Place to Stay in Singapore?
7 Best Singapore Neighborhoods to Stay In & Explore
Real Talk:
Singapore – while less affected than some of its Southeast Asian neighbors – is not immune to overtourism, gentrification, and environmental damage. So please: don’t be an asshole when you travel here (or anywhere).
If you’ve made it to my blog, I’d like to think you too care about preserving the integrity of the places you visit – but I’ve seen enough disrespectful behavior from Western tourists to know it’s worth saying out loud:
If you’re going to make locals’ lives harder, just stay home.
Kampong Glam: Singapore’s Malay Quarter with Creative, Indie (If Slightly Overdone) Style
Kampong Glam is where heritage and creativity meet — it’s one of the most vibrant, photogenic neighborhoods in Singapore, and it really leans into the city’s multicultural roots. The area has long been a center for the Malay and Muslim communities, and that cultural depth still defines it today.
You’ll find the golden dome of the Sultan Mosque rising over a sea of rainbow-painted shophouses, and a mix of restaurants that pull influence from across the region, from nasi padang to Turkish kebabs. Stop into Kampong Glam Cafe just down the street to sample all of the quintessential Malay dishes of Singapore (and grab a teh tarik while you’re at it).
Kampong Glam is also one of the most stylish Singapore neighborhoods. In a very small radius (just a couple of blocks in each direction from the mosque), you’ve got indie design stores, colorful murals (don’t miss the ones on Muscat Street), and some of the best coffee in town.
Haji Lane is the headline grabber of the neighborhood, but wander a little farther and you’ll discover quieter corners, quirky vintage shops, and a truly walkable neighborhood vibe. I especially recommend a stroll past Arab Street’s fabric shops and a stop at Sifr Aromatics, an indie perfume shop where we bought the nicest perfume we own!
Just keep in mind: this is a very on-the-beaten-track area that verges on touristy, especially in peak hours — but if you don’t mind the crowds, there’s still plenty of charm to uncover!
Where to stay:
Katong / Joo Chiat: A Laid-Back, Food-Loving Slice of Local Life
Katong and Joo Chiat are two adjoining neighborhoods that feel a world away from downtown — in the best possible way. That said, you’re still surprisingly close to the action: the city center is just a short MRT or taxi ride away, so it’s easy to enjoy a quieter base without sacrificing access to Singapore’s major sights.
But Katong itself offers a slower pace, pastel buildings (most famously on Koon Seng Road), and a real sense of local life unfolding around you. You’ll see residents going about their daily routines, kids weaving past Peranakan row houses after school, and the steady hum of conversation spilling out from hawker centres and coffee shops. Along Joo Chiat Road in particular, there’s a lovely mix of independent cafés, design-forward boutiques, and neighborhood bakeries that make the area feel both lived-in and full of discovery.
This area is also where Singapore’s Peranakan culture really shines. Visit the Intan Peranakan House or the Katong Antique House to get a sense of the rich culture and traditions of this community totally unique to Singapore.
The food scene in Katong also reflects this rich heritage — think laksa, kueh, curry puffs, and noodle joints that have been running for decades. Stop by the famous 328 Katong Laksa to try what is arguably Singapore’s most famous dish, and then if you really feel up to it, walk on over to Janggut Laksa across the street to compare 328’s offering to the one that claims to be the original.
Another culinary institution you’re lucky to have easy access to in Katong is Chin Mee Chin Confectionery – a traditional kopitiam where you can get the quintessential Singaporean breakfast of kaya toast, soft boiled eggs, and kopi.
While Katong puts you a bit further from the city’s main attractions, it is totally a tradeoff worth making if you value atmosphere, space, and staying somewhere that still feels truly Singaporean.
Bonus: The East Coast Park beach and cycling trail are just a short ride away!
Where to stay:
Chinatown: A Central Hub with History, Energy & Hidden Gems
Chinatown is one of the most walkable and culturally rich neighborhoods in Singapore, making it an ideal base for exploring the city… and often a top pick for where to stay in Singapore for first timers. There’s a real mix of old and new here — you can start your morning with kopi and kaya toast at Tong Ah Eating House, shop for souvenirs on Temple Street, or visit the striking Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. Around lunchtime, head to Chinatown Complex Food Centre, where you’ll find everything from Michelin-rated hawker stalls to fried carrot cake and laksa.
The area really comes alive in the evenings – options for a night out include rooftop bars like Potato Head, neon-lit speakeasies hidden in back alleys, and narrow streets like Ann Siang Hill and Club Street that are full of buzzy restaurants and wine bars (check out Le Bon Funk for one of my personal favorites!). Plus, with two MRT lines right at your doorstep, it’s one of the most connected neighborhoods in the city.
It’s true that Chinatown is on the well-trodden path — but if you step beyond the main drag, you’ll discover indie boutiques, quiet heritage lanes, and a ton of local character. It’s a great home base if you want to experience Singapore’s multicultural layers with a side of nightlife and convenience.
Where to stay:
Tiong Bahru: Leafy, Low-Key Cool with Art Deco Charm
Tiong Bahru is one of Singapore’s oldest housing estates — and easily its most charming. The neighborhood’s signature curved art deco flats, built in the 1930s, are now home to some of the city’s most beloved cafés, bakeries, and bookshops.
Tiong Bahru Market is of course the neighborhood’s big draw — equal parts produce hub and hawker center. Come for the famed chwee kueh or lor mee, stay for the people-watching and local rhythm of daily life.
Beyond the market, though, you’ll find hip brunch spots like Tiong Bahru Bakery, indie shops like Ronggeng Records and First Stitch, and tiny coffee spots tucked into nooks and crannies throughout the neighborhood (special shoutout to Flock!). It’s all set against a backdrop of leafy streets and low-rise architecture that gives the area a relaxed, residential vibe you don’t often find in the city.
If you’re looking for a slower-paced, slightly artsy stay with easy access to central Singapore, this is a great option. It may not have headline-grabbing tourist attractions, but that’s the point: Tiong Bahru feels like a real neighborhood-y neighborhood…. which also makes it a great option for where to stay in Singapore for cheap as a result.
And despite its laid-back feel, Tiong Bahru is super well located. You’re just a few MRT stops from Orchard, Chinatown, and Marina Bay, making it ideal if you want a restful base without sacrificing convenience. It’s one of my favorite places in all of Singapore — the kind of neighborhood where it’s easy to imagine yourself staying longer than planned.
Where to stay:
Tanjong Pagar: Sleek Meets Historic in a Foodie-Favorite District
Tanjong Pagar is a dynamic neighborhood that blends sleek skyscrapers with historic shophouses — and offers some of the best food and boutique hotel options in the city.
You could plan your whole stay around the dining alone: there’s Korean BBQ on Tanjong Pagar Road, Japanese izakayas along Amoy Street, and Michelin-starred spots tucked into Duxton Hill. Maxwell Food Centre is also a must-visit, with crowd favorites like Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and sweet soya beancurd that’s perfect for dessert.
By day, grab a coffee at cloud, take a walk past the colorful conservation buildings on Duxton Road, or check out the fascinating Rail Corridor park (sort of Singapore’s answer to NYC’s High Line). Or, check out the Singapore Art Museum at Tanjong Pagar Distripark right on the edge of the neighborhood.
By night, you’ll want to head to Keong Saik Road for cocktails at hidden speakeasies or dinner at one of the many buzzy wine bars or restaurants.
The bookstore scene is unexpectedly excellent here too — you’ll find one of the highest concentrations in Singapore, especially along Duxton Road. Book Bar and Littered with Books were two of my favorites, but I recommend setting aside an afternoon for strolling and browsing!
Despite bordering the CBD, Tanjong Pagar still manages to feel distinctive and local. The MRT station puts you within easy reach of Chinatown, Marina Bay, and beyond. It’s an easy pick for travelers who want to balance comfort and convenience with a dose of cool.
Where to stay:
Little India: A Bold, Colorful Stay in the City’s Liveliest Quarter
Little India is one of Singapore’s most character-filled neighborhoods — a place where every street corner seems to buzz with life. It’s an explosion of color, scent, and sound: garland stalls spilling out onto the pavement, Bollywood tunes drifting from shopfronts, and the heady aroma of spice blends wafting from restaurants. It’s also incredibly walkable, which makes it easy to soak in the details — temples, saris, gold bangles, fruit stands, and street art all jostling together in joyful chaos.
If you’re a foodie, this is one of the most exciting areas to base yourself, and you’ll want to put the Tekka Centre at the top of your to-do list. From dosa for breakfast and biryani for lunch to buttery naan and rich curries at 2 a.m., Little India’s food scene is basically legendary.
You’ll also find some great budget-friendly shopping here, whether you’re looking for textiles, tech accessories, or sweets to bring home – especially at the famous Mustafa Centre, which is open 24 hours and truly needs to be experienced to be understood.
The neighborhood can be noisy, especially on weekends or during holidays. We actually stayed here ourselves — and while there’s no denying it’s packed with character, we found it a little overwhelming at times, especially since our visit coincided with Diwali. The crowds, music, and nonstop energy made for a memorable (if slightly intense) stay.
If you want calm, this may not be the place — but if you want energy, color, and cultural depth, Little India 100% delivers.
Where to stay:
Orchard: Singapore’s Retail Powerhouse with Big-City Convenience
Orchard Road is Singapore’s most famous shopping district — and if you love a sleek mall or a luxury department store, this is your zone. It’s home to seemingly endless malls, designer boutiques, flagship department stores, and big-name hotels with all the bells and whistles. While it’s not the place to go for local character, it is wildly convenient and very polished. You’re also well connected by MRT, and everything you need — food, air-conditioning, and entertainment — is never more than a few steps away.
That said, there are some quieter corners worth exploring. You’ll find stretches of leafy sidewalks, a few low-key coffee shops, and even the Singapore Botanic Gardens nearby if you’re craving greenery. Orchard is especially appealing for travelers who want a straightforward, central home base with great amenities and minimal hassle. It’s also where you’ll find some of Singapore’s newest and most design-forward hotels.
Where to stay:
FAQs about Where to Stay in Singapore
What area of Singapore is best to stay in?
It really depends on your travel style. If you want walkability and central access, Chinatown and Tanjong Pagar are excellent picks. For charm and character, Tiong Bahru and Katong/Joo Chiat offer a more local vibe. If you’re here to shop and want big-brand hotels, Orchard will be the most convenient.
Where should I stay for the first time in Singapore?
First-time visitors often love Chinatown because it’s central, vibrant, and well-connected to the MRT. It’s also packed with food and cultural sights, making it a great base for exploring. Kampong Glam is another great option if you want something colorful and photogenic without being far from major attractions.
What is the nicest part of Singapore?
“Nicest” is subjective, but I fell in love with Tiong Bahru for its leafy streets and indie cafés, as well as happening Tanjong Pagar for its blend of heritage, bookshops, and amazing food. If stereotypically polished luxury is what you’re looking for, Orchard or parts of the Marina Bay area will feel more upscale.
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Have you decided where to stay in Singapore?
I hope that this post about where to stay in Singapore has been helpful in planning your trip! I hope this guide has shown you just how many distinct, personality-filled neighborhoods are packed into Singapore’s small footprint. Whether you’re chasing culture, cafés, or convenience, there’s a place here that fits the bill — and many of them go overlooked by travelers who stick to the usual tourist zones like Marina Bay and Orchard.
If you have any feedback or want to share your experience with choosing where to stay in Singapore, please leave me a comment!
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Happy traveling!
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