The city state of Singapore practically effervesces. Colour and lights dominate downtown, which began life in 1819 as a British trading post. Business is still booming today and is, in part, reason for the country’s efficient and modern transport system, clean urban environment and celebrated cuisine. From street food to some of the finest Michelin star restaurants in Asia, the food is one of the most memorable experiences about any trip here. But so too are stays at a hotel in Singapore.
Although Singapore isn’t really known for being a shoestring budget traveller’s ideal place to travel, it doesn’t mean there are no good-quality, cheap hotels out there. That’s why here at TravelMag we’ve compiled a list of Singapore’s best cheap hotels. Of our many considerations when researching were the facilities at each property, guest reviews from the last 12 months and the hotel’s location.
Privates from $71/ night
Perhaps unsurprisingly, in a small city state like Singapore, space is at a premium. That has given rise to a number of capsule hotels, which are one of the commonest forms of accommodation for visitors to the city. But confinement can also mean comfort and at Cube Boutique Capsule Hotel that is certainly the case. With an array of sleeping options, including a queen bed capsule, free breakfast included and a shared lounge area, Cube is a great budget option. The property is on Smith Street, where some of the city’s best street food can be found, and the closest MRT station is just five minutes away on foot.
Privates from $95/ night
This chic black and white hotel is only mono in the tone of its décor. Besides the sleek, modern interiors air conditioned rooms come equipped with a TV, free toiletries, refrigerator, slippers and a laptop safe. One of the biggest draws of the hotel however is its excellent location on Mosque Street in the historic centre, which is especially intriguing for its high concentration of religious centres for different faiths, including Buddhism, Islam and Hinduism. There is wifi on-site and laundry facilities for an additional charge.
Privates from $43/ night
Capsule rooms are often glorified bunk beds, with enclosed, private space and TVs but you would definitely be forgiven for thinking that you had paid for a night aboard a spaceship or in a hyperbaric chamber when you check into the Met A. That is part of the design. They have taken this common type of Singapore hotel style and made it fun. Their space pod capsule-themed pods all have air conditioning, USB ports and plug sockets. Boat Quay, where the hotel is located, is a great area for exploring beautiful buildings and walks along the city’s waterfront. Breakfast is also included in the price.
Privates from $99/ night
Another great hotel in Boat Quay is the Santa Grand, which is housed in one of the area’s more historic buildings. Rooms come with a minimum of air conditioning, flat-screen TV and a kettle, meanwhile there is free wifi and toiletries also provided. Getting out and about is made all the more simple by the presence of three separate MRT stations within a five to ten minute walk. It is also possible to store luggage here before check-in or after check-out.
Privates from $125/ night
Modern minimalist décor is the theme of Lloyd’s Inn, and the simplicity and airy feeling to this inner city hotel could not be a more welcoming touch. In a city of capsule hotels and rooms with few windows, the profusion of natural light during the daytime is also a rather unique feature to this hotel. Located at the other side of Fort Canning Park to Marina Bay, there’s a feeling of being in the city, but not caught up in the maelstrom. While there’s a pleasant terrace and garden on-site, the MRT station 10 minutes’ walk away can whisk you to most regions of Singapore in a short space of time.
