Hotels in Harbourfront, Singapore

Singapore, dubbed the “Lion City” and the “Garden City,” is hands-down the coolest city-state of all time—yes, of all time, I reckon. This place started as a British trading post back in the day (1819, for the history nerds) and somehow transformed into a financial center that keeps the world turning.

You can hop on a cable car to Sentosa for the beach, stroll under glowing Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay, or shop until your wallet cries on Orchard Road. The food? Absolute chef’s kiss. Hawker centers are the real MVPs—grab some chicken rice, chili crab, or laksa for dirt-cheap, and thank me later.

Getting to Singapore

There’s one airport in the world that you can't miss, and that’s Singapore Changi Airport. The first time I landed at Changi Airport, I was absolutely floored. Waterfalls? Butterfly gardens? Is this real life or a Netflix special? Changi Airport is home to the Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, surrounded by a lush jungle. There’s also a sky-high canopy park, a giant slide, and more shops than you can handle. Perfect for one last “Wow, Singapore!” moment before flying in or out.

Most international flights land here, and it’s known for being efficient, well-organized, and—honestly—a bit of a tourist attraction itself. The distance from Changi Airport to downtown Singapore is about 20 kilometers (12 miles).

Changi Airport

To get from Changi Airport to the city, taxis are the fastest option, taking 20-30 minutes and costing $20–30, plus a $5 airport surcharge (50% more from 1-6 AM). The MRT is a cheaper choice, taking about 45 minutes with a transfer at Tanah Merah, and costs $2.30 plus a $0.10 deposit.

Pro Tip: If you're flying in on a red-eye flight or arriving super early, I’ve got two hotels to recommend near Changi Airport that offer free airport shuttle or free airport pick-up services, making your early mornings or late arrivals way easier.

See more hotels near Singapore Changi Airport to decide the best hotel to stay.

Best Areas to Stay in Singapore

Orchard Road: Shopping paradise and Singapore's most famous street! Endless malls, amazing food (check out ION's basement food court!), and super easy to get around with multiple MRT stations. Hotels are pricey but you're right in the center Singapore.

Marina Bay: This is postcard Singapore - think Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and those killer skyline views. Definitely splurgy, but you're next to all the cool spots and the best hawker centers are just a short walk away.

Bugis/Kampong Glam: My favorite area. Cheaper hotels than Orchard, amazing street food at Albert Centre, cool cafes, and gorgeous Arab Street vibes. Plus you're just 2 MRT stops from everything.

Sentosa Resorts

Top Things to Do in Singapore

Singapore is the place where modern vibes, lush greenery, and best eats collide. No matter if you’re here for Sentosa’s dreamy resorts or hunting down hawker food like a foodie on a mission, this city doesn’t just meet expectations—it smashes them, literally. Here’s your guide to the must-dos in Singapore. Let’s go!

1. Stay and Play at Sentosa Resorts

Home to dreamy resorts like Resorts World Sentosa, you’ve got everything here: sandy beaches, Universal Studios, and even SEA Aquarium, where you can get lost (in a good way) watching manta rays float by. Whether you're zip-lining at Mega Adventure Park or chilling with a cocktail at Tanjong Beach Club, Sentosa is where your vacay vibes level up.

2. Dine on Hawker Food

Grab Hainanese Chicken Rice, Char Kway Teow, or satay skewers for less than your morning latte. Head to Newton Food Centre or Lau Pa Sat for satay under the stars. Oh, and don’t forget to “chope” your seat with a tissue packet—it’s how Singaporeans roll.

3. Get Lost in Gardens by the Bay

Singapore said, “Why be a garden city when you can be a city IN a garden?” The Supertrees here look like alien landscapes, and the Cloud Forest is a literal chill zone with misty air and waterfalls that are so Insta-worthy.

Gardens by the Bay