Where to Stay in Singapore: Marina Bay, Orchard, Sentosa
Singapore is small and connected by the MRT, so area choice is about atmosphere: Marina Bay for skyline and attractions, Orchard Road for shopping, Bugis for food and value, and Sentosa for resort stays.
Areas at a glance
Marina Bay
Home to Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay, served by five MRT lines.
Orchard Road
A 2.5 km upscale shopping road with malls and department stores, served by Orchard, Somerset and Dhoby Ghaut stations.
Bugis
Area with Bugis Street, now a retail complex with malls and street-side vendors.
Sentosa
Island resort area with Resorts World Sentosa, Universal Studios Singapore and 14 hotels.
Getting there
Changi Airport MRT station is on an East-West Line branch; change at Tanah Merah for the city. Taxis and ride-hailing are also available.
Good for
- Families
- First-time visitors
- Short stopovers
- Shopping and food
Watch out for
- The Northeast Monsoon (mid-November to early March) and Southwest Monsoon (June to September) bring seasonal rain.
- Hotel rates are high compared with neighbouring countries.
Booking tips
- Marina Bay is served by several MRT lines, so it works as a base for most sights.
- Sentosa has Resorts World Sentosa, Universal Studios Singapore and a 2.5 km sheltered beach.
FAQ
Where should families stay in Singapore?
Sentosa for Universal Studios and beaches, or Marina Bay for central sightseeing.
Can I take the MRT from Changi Airport?
Yes. Changi Airport station is on an East-West Line branch; change at Tanah Merah.