The Coolest Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals in Singapore
Singapore’s diverse culture, unique cuisine and cityscape of shimmering glass towers make it one of Asia’s must-visit destinations. The city has something to offer everyone, from luxury shopping and an impressive dining scene to fantastic green spaces like the famous botanical gardens. To best immerse yourself in the city-state, we’ve picked some apartment-style stays that’ll make you feel instantly at home in this crossroads of cultures.
Sleek suites in Singapore’s shopping hub
Apartment
Set in the heart of Orchard, Singapore’s top designer shopping district, the decor in this swish aparthotel is just as fashionable as the boutiques surrounding it – and it’s linked directly to Paragon shopping mall via a covered bridge. Smartly finished suites sleep between two and four guests in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom layouts. Sleek modern kitchens and room service means eating out isn’t obligatory. Expect spectacular views from your room of matchstick skyscrapers, plus there’s an outside pool long enough for laps.
Smart apartments in buzzing Balestier
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Positioned above three levels of retail space, this chic apartment hotel occupies a soaring tower overlooking the eclectic Balestier neighbourhood. Stylish studio and one-bedroom spaces sleep two, with modern kitchenettes and lounge areas, while floor-to-ceiling windows frame the impressive cityscape views. You can chill out on a lounger by the outside pool or head to the all-day bistro for a bite, and there are countless other dining options within a short stroll of the complex.
Loft living in Singapore’s tech park
Serviced Apartment
Located in the Fusionopolis tech park, these futuristic-style apartments will certainly appeal to lovers of sleek modernity. One-bedroom lofts sleep two or three people, with fully equipped kitchens and washing machines – useful for longer stays. They all extend over two levels, with balconies for stunning city views. Residents also have access to a high-tech gym and, if you’re in a hurry for that morning meeting, there’s a grab-and-go breakfast station complete with energising smoothies.
Bay-view apartments with luxury touches
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If you like a pool with a view, they don’t come much more impressive than the one at this aparthotel. You’ll never tire of gazing out over Marina Bay from its glass-sided infinity edge. Vistas from the one and two-bedroom apartments impress too, while well-equipped kitchens and lounges offer home convenience and comfort. They sleep between two and four guests; the smartest options include separate living and dining areas. Quality Molton Brown products and Nespresso makers add an extra touch of luxury.
Colourful and contemporary apartments close to Little India
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Set in one of Singapore’s more playful pieces of architecture, these apartments have a charming whimsy about them, while their wall-to-wall windows offer amazing city views. Studio, one and two-bedroom suites sleep from two to four people, while on-point kitchens make eating in a doddle. Music systems come as standard, as do eco-friendly toiletries. Step outside and you’re in the heart of the Rochor district, a short stroll from Little India’s curry houses and Hindu temples.
Self-catered studio apartments in colourful Chinatown
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Set in the colourful, skyscraper-free neighbourhood of Chinatown, this aparthotel occupies a typically low-rise building on bustling South Bridge Road. Contrasting studio-style apartments are finished in calming tones (the best have millennial-pink walls, stencilled murals, vintage-style lamps and retro art prints) and accommodate either one or two sleepers. Updated bathrooms come with rainfall showers and toiletries, too. While kitchenettes make self-catering an option, if you love Chinese food you’re not likely to be eating in.
Lofts near the marina and gardens by the bay
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Standing out for its ornate neo-classical facade, this apartment building sits on a palm-lined street in the lively Bras Basah neighbourhood. A loft-style layout means apartments are spread over two levels, with the kitchen and bathroom below an upper-floor bedroom. Queen-size beds sleep couples comfortably, plus there’s access to free laundry facilities. When heading out, you’re within easy strolling distance of some of Singapore’s highlights, including Suntec City shopping hub and the CHIJMES complex – a former Catholic convent turned restaurant and events space.
Nature-inspired aparthotel in Novena
Apartment
Nature’s not something you normally associate with a thriving centre of commerce like Singapore, but that’s the theme at this Airbnb apartment building. Rooms are done up in organic shades, pictures of birds and trees grace the walls, and the building has several leafy hangout spots, including a pool and open-sided deck bordered by a babbling water feature. It’s all rather relaxing, really – especially when you discover there’s several BBQ pits dotted around and even a gym, too. The architecturally arresting building sits in the Novena neighborhood, a short trot from Balestier and Whampoa markets for world-beating Singaporean street food.
Jaclynn Seah contributed additional reporting to this article.