Where to Stay in Singapore
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Little India
Provides very affordable accommodation, delicious food, and a vibrant cultural immersion at a low cost.
See full Singapore neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Singapore
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Chinatown
A vibrant cultural melting pot alive with bustling markets, delicious street food, and rich heritage.
Our top picks in Chinatown
Centrally located hotel offering comfortable stays within the heart of Chinatown.
Book NowUnique capsule accommodation providing a budget-friendly and modern experience.
Book NowCharming boutique hotel located in a beautifully restored heritage building.
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Little India
A sensory explosion of colorful streets, aromatic spices, and lively temples, offering a taste of South Asia.
Our top picks in Little India
Comfortable hotel with good amenities, conveniently located near Little India attractions.
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Tiong Bahru
A charming bohemian enclave blending art deco architecture with trendy cafes, independent boutiques, and a relaxed pace.
Our top picks in Tiong Bahru
A stylish heritage hotel housed in a restored 19th-century warehouse, offering a unique luxury experience.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Chinatown | Budget | A vibrant cultural melting pot alive with bustling markets, delicious street food, and rich heritage. | foodiesbudget |
Little India | Budget | A sensory explosion of colorful streets, aromatic spices, and lively temples, offering a taste of South Asia. | foodiesculture |
Marina Bay | Luxury | A futuristic playground of iconic landmarks and upscale leisure, perfect for soaking in Singapore's modern marvels. | first-timersluxury |
Tiong Bahru | Mid-range | A charming bohemian enclave blending art deco architecture with trendy cafes, independent boutiques, and a relaxed pace. | couplesfoodies |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Singapore
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Singapore
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Singapore. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Singapore
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Singapore
Chinatown
BudgetA vibrant cultural melting pot alive with bustling markets, delicious street food, and rich heritage.
- +Abundant and affordable food options
- +Rich cultural experiences
- +Good value accommodation
- -Can be very crowded
- -Limited high-end shopping
Little India
BudgetA sensory explosion of colorful streets, aromatic spices, and lively temples, offering a taste of South Asia.
- +Incredible and affordable Indian cuisine
- +Unique shopping experiences
- +Vibrant atmosphere
- -Can be noisy and crowded
- -Some areas might feel intense for first-time visitors
Marina Bay
LuxuryA futuristic playground of iconic landmarks and upscale leisure, perfect for soaking in Singapore's modern marvels.
- +Stunning skyline views
- +World-class attractions within walking distance
- +Excellent public transport links
- -Can feel sterile at night
- -Expensive dining and accommodation
Tiong Bahru
Mid-rangeA charming bohemian enclave blending art deco architecture with trendy cafes, independent boutiques, and a relaxed pace.
- +Excellent independent cafes and restaurants
- +Unique architectural character
- +Less touristy atmosphere
- -Limited public transport within the immediate neighborhood
- -Can be pricey for dining
Daily Budget (Budget)
SGD 75/day
Hidden Gems in Singapore
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Tiong Bahru Market
This vibrant hawker center upstairs and market downstairs is a local institution, offering some of the best and most affordable traditional Singaporean dishes in a bustling, authentic setting.
Joo Chiat / Katong
FREEWander through this charming heritage district, famous for its colorful Peranakan shophouses, vibrant street art, and delicious local food, offering a glimpse into Singapore's past.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Singapore
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Singapore Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Singapore on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Singapore Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Singapore with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Singapore: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Singapore's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Singapore: Scenic Excursion
Escape Singapore for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Singapore Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Singapore's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Singapore
Backpackers in Singapore: FAQ
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