Best Neighborhood to Stay in Singapore

Best Neighborhood to Stay in Singapore

By Dom Bewley

Picking the right accommodation location is one of the most important parts of planning a vacation. What can your budget allow? What kind of vibe are you looking for? What do you want to be near? Whether you're looking for a mix of things, or are more specifically target one parameter, we've got you covered.

Below, we've collated the best neighborhoods to stay in when you visit Singapore. So, whether you're looking to be by the city's most famous landmarks, in the thick of Singapore's nightlife, or want something a bit more traditional, we've found districts that will fit you like a glove. So read on, and find the perfect place for you!

Including

  • Marina Bay
  • Riverside
  • Downtown
  • Orchard Road
  • and more!
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Marina Bay

Bringing your family to Singapore? Then Marina Bay is arguably the best neighborhood for you and your clan to stay in. Though it may err on the pricier side, if you're bringing the entire family to the city, you probably have the cash to burn.

Location-wise, you'll be in the thick of the action. Marina Bay is a stone's throw from Clarke Quay and the Civic District, so you'll find plenty to keep busy. Plus, one of Singapore's top attractions, the Gardens by the Bay, is right on your doorstep.

If you can, book a room at the famous Marina Bay Sands Hotel. Not only are the rooms exquisite, but you'll also have easy access to the hotel's wonderous infinity pool.

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Riverside

Leaving the little ones at home and looking to explore the city's after-dark samplings? Look no further than Riverside. Here, you'll find Singapore's hub of nightclubs, bars, and affluent restaurants.

The once-busy docks have been transformed into Singapore's hippest evening area. Not only will you find plenty of rooftop bars where you can soak up some rays or see in the sunset, but you'll also don your dancing shoes at one of the area's many discotheques. Boogie woogie, and all that.

However, like Marina Bay, Riverside is on the dearer side of Singapore neighborhoods. Many of the city's top restaurants and night haunts are located there, and you'll be paying a premium to sample their delights. It's also the busiest district for tourism, so if you travel during peak season, expect to be rubbing shoulders with plenty of other travelers.

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Downtown

Singapore's financial district is, understandably, the city's most expensive place to stay. Reserved for traveling business people and the many clients they're visiting, accommodation can be on the pricier side. However, if you can afford it or are in town for business, why not splash the cash? Some of the city's best hotels are housed within, so if you've got it, why not flaunt it?

Stacked with skyscrapers and futuristic designs seen in shows like Westworld, you'll find plenty of photo ops around Downtown. But don't worry; it isn't all glass, steel, and concrete. In fact, you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities and even parks if you need to take a verdant break.

And yes, while most hotels are relatively expensive, hunt about, and you might find cheaper deals on some more reasonable places.

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Orchard Road

Calling all shoppers. Do you have expensive taste? Do you accept nothing but the biggest and best labels adorning your body and accessories? If you answered yes, then Orchard Road is the best neighborhood to stay in while visiting Singapore!

Even if you're not in the market for a new coat or bag, there are still plenty of reasons to stay in the area. You'll find classy cafes, wonderful restaurants, and smaller boutique stores where you can pick up unique items you won't find on the high street. And, when you finally hit your overdraft and have too much to bring back with you, you'll find easy connections to other parts of the city.

So, if you need to shop but also want a dazzling locale as your base of operations, check out Orchard Road.

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Chinatown

While we've mainly covered the higher end of budgets when it comes to neighborhoods in Singapore, you needn't break the bank to get the best. In fact, if you're looking for a more authentic cultural experience where rents are cheap, and food is affordable, you can't do much better than Chinatown.

A little piece of China in the heart of Singapore, Chinatown also offers all the wonderful delicacies you can expect from a little slice of the east. Food stalls selling myriad Chinese dishes and street food; welcoming shops full of cultural items and knickknacks, as well as great connections to some of the more expensive parts of the city. If you're not looking to break the bank and desire a bit of peace with your accommodation, Chinatown is more than worth a look.

Plus, you'll even find the city's cheapest Michelin-star restaurant within, so you can dine like a king without flogging the crown jewels.

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Little India

If you like the idea of Chinatown but prefer your cuisine with a little added spice, say hello to Little India. As a location, it shares many of the same benefits as its eastern partner, with cheaper rents, affordable food, and plenty of authentic shops and experiences to discover.

Food-wise, however, expect to find plenty of traditional offerings; curries of all shapes and sizes, pakora, vada pav, and many more. And, as it's located close to some of Singapore's best shopping districts, you'll have plenty of reasons to head out and explore, should you wish to.

And those are our picks of the best neighborhoods to stay in during your Singapore vacation! Now that you know where to set up your base camp, you'll need to plan the rest of your trip. If you're suffering from choice paralysis, let Go City ease your woes! Thanks to our All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, you can see all of the city's best bits and make huge savings while you're at it!

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Singapore sushi
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Best brunch in Singapore

Brunch: The most indulgent meal of the day. Maybe you skipped breakfast because of visiting an early attraction, or maybe you slept in after sampling the incredible nightlife. Whatever the reason, you deserve a decadent dish to recharge your batteries and get you fired up for more exploring. We’ve listed our top 10 places in Singapore to grab brunch. Bon appetite! Boomerang café and bistro Singapore Resting on the Singapore River you’ll find Boomerang Cafe and Bistro, serving fresh, authentic Australian cuisine day and night. Australians know that to keep your energy levels up you need some good grub, and there’s plenty of that at Boomerang. With opening hours between 6am and 3am, you’ve got plenty of time to explore the menu. Breakfast runs until 11:30, after which it switches to the lunch menu. There’s a vast selection of breakfast options, including light and airy pancakes, to a fully Ozzy steak and eggs. The lunch menu contains a vast array of starters and sharing platters, although we’d recommend the garlic prawn and mango salad for the perfect brunch meal. If you’re craving more Boomerang action, Happy Hour runs Monday to Friday from 5pm until 8pm, and 2pm until 8pm on Sundays. Kinki Restaurant + Bar If bold Japanese cuisine is more your thing, try Kinki Restaurant + bar. Found near Marina Bay and Raffles Place, the views from the rooftop bar are breathtaking. The food’s a delight for all your senses, with bright colorful dishes created using exquisite ingredients. While we could talk about the menu all day long, the real show-stopper is the bottomless brunch. Available Saturdays and public holidays, the all-you-can-eat brunch includes fresh sashimi slices, a variety of maki rolls, various mains, and much more. For $68 you can feast on the smorgasbord of delights, and for an additional $38, you can add unlimited Sake, Beer, Prosecco, or Shochu to the mix. LAVO Restaurant & Rooftop Bar Enjoy classic Italian American food and hand-crafted cocktails from the 57th floor of Marina Bay Sands Hotel. The view from the outdoor balcony is worth the visit alone. The prices reflect the exclusive location, with the Free Flow Dom Pérignon & Buffet Menu coming in at $398 per person. A seafood feast awaits with fresh lobster, tiger prawns, crab, and enough dessert options for even the sweetest of teeth. We also recommend ordering a slice of the 20-layer cake. You’ll thank us later. Carrotsticks and Cravings If healthy living is your thing, Carrotsticks and Cravings is the destination for you. Using the freshest ingredients and packed with superfoods, they cater to all dietary requirements. There’s no poor option on the menu, as everything looks and tastes delicious. The signature smashed avocado toast is a great start, with a baked chia parfait or superfood salad providing an excellent backup plan. If gluten-free, dairy-free, refined sugar-free, and vegetarian-friendly foods make your stomach smile, add Carrotsticks and Cravings to your brunch itinerary. Butcher’s Block If you’re a carnivore who loves their meat flame-grilled, you may find your dream brunch at Butcher’s Block. Raffles Arcade houses this avant-garde steakhouse where fire is the star of the show, whether you’re ordering meat or fish. Smoking with wood, slow roasting, or grilling directly over embers, Butcher’s Block knows how to extract every drop of taste out of their meals. Brunch is available on the weekends with a mouth-watering a la carte menu, or an option to upgrade to the Sommelier’s Selection which includes a 90-minute high-end wine-tasting experience. Waffle Place If you’re looking for somewhere unique or unusual to enjoy brunch, look no further than Waffle Place in Singapore. This halal cafe serves premium waffles with a multitude of toppings. With a variety of interesting flavor combinations, you’re unlikely to have the same waffle twice. There are some ‘classic’ topping options such as apple pie or ice cream, as well as more unusual toppings like duck in kerutuk sauce, or crispy chicken with a fried egg, spicy mayo, and maple syrup. A truly unique experience awaits you at Waffle Place, Singapore. Astor Bar Astor Bar at The St. Regis Singapore offers an adult-only cocktail brunch every Saturday, but don’t worry - it’s not just a liquid lunch. A luxurious platter of seafood on ice, including crab, oysters, and shrimp, ensures a decadent brunch to remember. Add in a soundtrack of live jazz music performed by the resident band and you’re only missing one thing; cocktails. Whatever your tipple of choice, it’s on the menu at Astor Bar. A Sip of Gilded Age, the iconic Chilli Padi Mary, or a chocolate martini are just a tiny sample of the cocktails on offer. Luckily, if you’re spoiled for choice and tormented by indecision, the helpful mixologists will guide you through the flavor profiles. Red House Seafood With influences from the Malay, Indian, and Peranakan traditions, Red House Seafood provides a brunch filled with exquisite Singaporean seafood dishes. Chili crab and satay chicken are classic Singapore mains, but here they’re handled with finesse and elevated to new levels. As one of Singapore’s oldest seafood restaurants, they know how to treat diners to something special. The Dim Sum lunch buffet allows you to choose from a menu of 50 items, including delicious steamed fish, prawn rolls and, of course, the delectable dim sums. Save on Admission to Top Singapore Attractions Explore the best things to do with a pass for Singapore by Go City®. Select from top attractions with our All-Inclusive and Explorer passes, where you’ll enjoy access to galleries, museums, tours much more. Share Your Adventure with Us Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we’ll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook channels for exclusive competitions, special offers, and events to help you make the most of your travels.
Adam Fraiel
Overhead view of colored warehouses and the river at Clarke Quay in Singapore
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Things to do in Clarke Quay

Despite its central location and world class airport, Singapore is more than just a place to pass through – it’s a buzzing, cosmopolitan city with many contrasting districts to explore. While the Marina may be where most people head first, if you’ve got time then it’s worth detouring off the main tourist trail for the historic and pretty waterfront promenades of Clarke Quay. Named for the 19th century Governor Sir Andrew Clarke, this slice of Singapore forms part of the Singapore River Precinct and was originally lined with warehouses and docks for the moving and unloading of goods up and down the river. It’s since been renovated and revamped, and now serves as a lively open-air entertainment and commercial district popular with locals and tourists alike. While you’re there, take the opportunity for: Retail therapy A historical bicycle tour A river cruise A walk to Merlion Park Nightlife Exploring Fort Canning Park Chinatown Retail therapy Clarke Quay Central is the first place you should head if you’re in the mood for a bit of bargain hunting. It’s an enormous riverside mall with five levels to explore, so whether you’re on the hunt for the latest fashion or need to stock up on ‘I went to Singapore’ shirts for the folks at home, this is the place to come. There are plenty of restaurants with riverside views, and if you haven’t filled your bags by lunch time there’s the Riverside Point Shopping Center and the Clarke Quay Shopping Mall nearby. Historical bicycle tour If you like to combine your history with movement, or find it all easier to take in when someone’s explaining it to you, how about joining a four-hour historical bike tour of the city? You’ll get to know the city from a local’s perspective by visiting a residential area and a local market, as well as learning about the city’s history through its districts, museums and monuments. Your tour will include a stop at Clarke Quay, so be sure to ask your guide for some hot tips on the best shops and restaurants to come back to! River Cruise One of the best ways to explore a riverside district is from the water itself – the same way the bargemen and dock workers would have done in the days of the warehouses. Take a break from shopping and exploring by joining a River Cruise in a wooden bumboat – traditionally used to ferry goods from ship to shore – and relax as you wind up the river from Clarke Quay to the Marina and back again, if you like. Sit back, enjoy the fresh river breezes and discover that there’s more to the Lion City than Supertrees and skyscrapers. If you time it right, you’ll be able to watch the sunset from the water. Walk to Merlion Park If you feel the need to stretch your legs, and want to see a bit of everything, take yourself on a self-guided tour from the Quay to Merlion Park. It’s about a mile, though a couple of diversions and photo stops will stretch it out a bit. Start at Clarke Quay Central and head across Elgin Bridge to cross the river. Stop and admire the painted warehouses on either side, then divert north for a glimpse of the rainbow-colored (and somewhat unmissable) Old Hill Street Police Station. From here you can either cross back and walk along Boat Quay, or take the northern side past the former Parliament House (now the Arts House), the Victoria Concert Hall and the marble statue of the city’s founder Sir Stamford Raffles, believed to mark the spot where he first landed in 1819. You’ll also pass the Asian Civilizations Museum, which has an extensive collection of artifacts showcasing the continent’s major religions. From there, cross over the historic Cavenagh Suspension Bridge to Merlion Park, where you’ll find the half-lion, half-fish emblem of the city presiding over a busy square on Marina Bay. Nightlife Clarke Quay may be a busy retail hub during the day, but it’s in the evening when things really start to come to life. Even overnight the temperature in Singapore barely dips below 75 degrees, and it can be humid, so the riverfront is the perfect place for a refreshing evening stroll. It’s lively here most nights, and alfresco dining choices include Japanese, Indian, Chinese, Thai and Western cuisines. After dinner there are plenty of bars and clubs that will be buzzing with activity – the famous club Zouk, in a converted warehouse, always has an impressive line-up of guest DJ’s, there’s a Holey Moley if you fancy a round of mini-golf, or for a late-night snack try Hai Di Lao, which serves a traditional Hot Pot until the very early hours. Fort Canning Park Cross over to the northern bank of the river and not far away you’ll find the enormous Fort Canning Park, a grassy hilltop which often hosts concerts and plays, but during the day is a history-hunter’s playground. You’ll find Raffles House and Garden, the Fort Canning Lighthouse and the Battlebox, which is an underground bunker and network of tunnels that was used as a hub for coordinating war efforts in the 1930s and 40s. If you find the park a little overwhelming or need a fun activity to do with your friends and family, try a Fort Canning Puzzle Hunt – play as a soldier to solve clues and learn about Singapore's military history as you explore the hidden secrets of this remarkable site. Chinatown Less than ten minutes’ walk from the river is Singapore’s oldest district, Chinatown, which is worth at least half a day of exploring. As well as finding plenty of shops and restaurants – selling everything from lucky cats to the city’s signature Hainanese chicken rice – you’ll find the impressively modern Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum. The district is also home to several of the city’s oldest temples, the oldest Chinese Tea House and several museums – though if you’re looking for more family-oriented entertainment you could try a Virtual Reality Experience or perhaps an Outdoor Escape Room puzzle hunt through the narrow, colorful streets. Explore Clarke Quay with Go City Whether you prefer indoors or outdoors, day or night, feet, water or wheels, there’s something for everyone in Singapore’s Clarke Quay district. Save money and see it all with Go City!
Karleen Stevens
Things to do in Singapore's Civic District
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Things to do in Singapore's Civic District

Heading to Singapore's Civic and wondering what things you can do while you're there? In this article, we'll explore the best activities to try out on your visit. So, whether you're looking for culture, fun, or relaxation, we've got you covered. Read on, and discover the Civic District's best bits! Including: National Museum of Singapore Puzzle Hunt in Fort Canning Park The Battlebox The National Gallery Raffles Courtyard and Long Bar and more! Visit the National Museum of Singapore We'll start with one of the joys of taking a vacation - exploring and understanding a new culture. And with a melting pot of so many seemingly disparate cultures found in Singapore, you'll need to explore the state's past, present, and future to get the bigger picture. That's where the National Museum of Singapore comes in clutch. Journey through its galleries, and you'll discover what drives the beating heart of Singapore. Through world-class exhibitions, visually captivating art installations, and an exploration of local festivals, you'll learn about Singapore's rise into one of the most visited places on the planet. And you'll see where it all began. Try a Puzzle Hunt in Fort Canning Park If you're looking for things to do in Singapore's Civic District, put your thinking cap on and try your hand at a puzzle scavenger hunt in the area's Fort Canning Park. Think outdoor escape room mixed with roleplay. Embody the life of a soldier as you search for the secrets to Singapore's army. Hunt for clues, solve riddles, and work your way across the city to see if you can win the ultimate prize. Fun solo, but more fun in a group; it's a great way to get outdoors and see the sights while putting the grey matter to the test. Get historical at the Battlebox Keeping on the military theme, if you like exploring the history and tactics of war, then you should definitely visit The Battlebox. Located on the top-secret site where officers directed the Battle of Singapore in the Second World War, you'll be able to explore recreations of the men, the machinery, and the maps they used to direct the assault. Worm your way through the actual rooms and corridors they walked, and see some authentic wartime artifacts while you're at it. Take a guided tour, or dare to travel the labyrinth of underground tunnels yourself. However you choose to explore The Battlebox, you'll learn how the allies won and discover the tension and drama behind the decision to surrender the much-vaunted 'Singapore Fortress' on 15 February 1942. For history buffs with a penchant for war, it doesn't get much better than that. Image courtesy of Miguel Vidal/Shutterstock Take a look around the National Gallery If you like your culture with a hefty spoonful of brush strokes, then the National Gallery is one of the best things to do in Singapore's Civic District. Held in the city's old City Hall and Supreme Court buildings, the National Gallery offers a massive 64,000 square meters of artwork. You'll find plenty of mainstay exhibitions along with rotating exhibits, including 'Siapa Nama Kamu?', or 'What's your name?'. It explores the life and times of Singaporeans through local art, examining the effect art has on the community. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in art and local culture in one fell swoop. But that's just one of the many fantastic installations you'll find inside this massive space, so head inside and get exploring. And when you're done, pick up a keepsake from one of the many shops you'll find on-site. Get refreshed at Raffles Courtyard and Long Bar After a long day of sightseeing, you might want to put your feet up and enjoy a refreshing beverage. If so, head to Raffles Hotel and check out the Courtyard Bar, where you can get a drink from us. Raffles Courtyard is something else, mimicking a beachside paradise replete with palm trees and tiki tents. It's the perfect place to relax, and take a moment to drink in the city. Of course, that's not the only thing you'll be drinking in, thanks to the complimentary offering you can get with Go City! And hey, if you stay for a few more - no judgments here. See a show at Victoria Theatre and Victoria Concert Hall Another of Singapore Civic District's biggest draws is the Victoria Theatre & Victoria Concert Hall, where you'll find plenty of live performances throughout the year. Having been recently refurbished, you'll be treated to a top-tier experience from the moment you walk in the door. Home to the Singapore Symphony Orchestra. or SSO, we're sure they appreciate the improved acoustics that transforms the theatre's already impressive sound. Check out their site to see when the SSO, or a variety of performers, are playing, and grab a ticket! Game on at Zero Latency If you want thrills, spills, and chills in a virtual space, then Zero Latency has got you covered. This Virtual Reality hotspot features tons of immersive experiences that will have you sweating, laughing, and screaming - in that order. Team up with a crew to slay zombies, robots, and other cannon fodder, or work together to solve puzzles. You can even take part in some sports activities, if Singapore's famous weather swings towards the wetter end. Whichever you pick, you're bound to have a grand time. Relax at The Thai Spa We'll end our guide of things to do in Singapore's Civic District with the ultimate relaxation experience. If you need your back kneaded and your joints cracked, head to The Thai Spa and let them do their thing. Alongside massages, you can try aromatherapy, and even take part in some ancient Thai rituals, if you're feeling adventurous. With a focus on organic goodies, you'll be sure to refresh both your body and soul. So, if you need a break from all your exploring, go knock on their door. And that about does it for our guide to Singapore's Civic District. Looking for more things to do in Singapore? Check out Go City! With our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass, you can experience all the best bits of Singapore for one low price!
Dom Bewley

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