Bert Templeton
Traveling to Singapore often brings excitement over its dazzling skyline, vibrant hawker stalls, and bustling city life—but accommodation costs can quickly add up. That’s where serviced apartments in Singapore come into play, offering a practical alternative to hotels. These fully furnished units blend home-like comfort with hotel-style conveniences, appealing to a range of travelers. This guide explores the differences between serviced apartments and hotels, their advantages and disadvantages, and highlights top picks across budget, mid-range, and luxury categories—ideal for families, solo visitors, or business professionals visiting the Lion City.
What Are Serviced Apartments in Singapore?
Picture stepping into a stylish, fully furnished apartment after exploring Gardens by the Bay or wrapping up a day in the Central Business District (CBD). That’s the essence of serviced apartments in Singapore. Unlike standard rentals, these units come equipped with furniture, kitchens, and often extras like housekeeping or gym access. Designed for short-term stays (a few days) or extended periods (months), they provide flexibility in a city where space is at a premium. Tourists snapping photos at Marina Bay and expats settling in alike find these accommodations a seamless blend of independence and support.
How Do Serviced Apartments in Singapore Differ from Hotels?
The contrast between serviced apartments and hotels becomes clear when examining key aspects of each.
- Space and Layout
Hotels in Singapore typically offer sleek but compact rooms—often just a bed, a desk, and minimal extra space. Serviced apartments in Singapore, however, provide a living room for relaxation, a separate bedroom for restful sleep, and a kitchen for preparing meals. This setup resembles a small home, ideal for travelers needing room to spread out. - Amenities
Hotels emphasize pampering with daily housekeeping, late-night room service, and upscale features like rooftop bars. Serviced apartments prioritize self-sufficiency, offering washing machines, stovetops, and perhaps weekly cleaning. Some include pools or fitness centers, though round-the-clock staff support is rare. - Cost Structure
Hotel rates in Singapore fluctuate widely—a night near Orchard Road might cost $200 SGD during peak season. Serviced apartments in Singapore typically feature a consistent per-night or per-week rate, often with discounts for longer stays, making them a budget-friendly option for extended visits. - Target Audience
Hotels cater to short-term guests—tourists capturing Merlion shots or travelers stopping over briefly. Serviced apartments target business professionals on extended assignments, families needing extra space, or anyone aiming to experience Singapore like a resident. - Location
Hotels concentrate around tourist hubs like Marina Bay or Sentosa, while serviced apartments in Singapore span a wider range. Options exist in the busy CBD as well as quieter residential areas like Bukit Timah, offering diverse choices for where to base a stay.
Advantages of Staying in Serviced Apartments in Singapore
Several benefits make serviced apartments a standout choice for travelers.
- Home-Like Comfort
After navigating crowds at Universal Studios, returning to a spacious living area beats squeezing into a hotel room. Serviced apartments in Singapore deliver separate zones for living, dining, and sleeping, creating a homey atmosphere in a city where space is scarce. - Save Cash on Meals
Singapore’s food scene dazzles with affordable hawker centers like Lau Pa Sat, but constant dining out can strain a budget. A kitchen in a serviced apartment allows stocking up at FairPrice or cooking local dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, cutting costs significantly. - Perfect for Long Stays
Business travelers on multi-month assignments or vacationers lingering longer appreciate the ease of serviced apartments. No need to arrange utilities or furniture—just move into a ready-made space with flexible lease terms. - Privacy and Freedom
Hotels often involve frequent staff interactions—housekeeping visits or lobby chatter. Serviced apartments in Singapore offer a private retreat, allowing guests to host friends, work undisturbed, or unwind without constant oversight. - Great for Families or Groups
Families or groups traveling together benefit from multiple bedrooms, a kitchen for quick meals, and a shared living space—all typically more affordable than booking several hotel rooms. - Live Like a Local
Staying in neighborhoods like Tiong Bahru or Novena provides an authentic taste of Singapore life. Shopping at wet markets or sipping kopi at a nearby stall immerses visitors in daily routines beyond tourist zones.
Disadvantages of Serviced Apartments in Singapore
Despite their appeal, serviced apartments come with some trade-offs.
- Fewer On-Site Perks
Hotels provide constant service—spilled satay sauce triggers a quick room service fix. Serviced apartments in Singapore might limit cleaning to weekly visits, and concierge support is often minimal, leaving guests to handle more themselves. - Less Wow Factor
Checking into Marina Bay Sands with its iconic infinity pool is a bucket-list experience. Serviced apartments prioritize comfort over glamour, lacking the prestige or photo-worthy allure of luxury hotels. - DIY Vibes
Kitchens and laundry facilities are convenient until the reality of washing dishes or folding clothes sets in after a long day. Travelers seeking a hands-off escape might find this less appealing. - Location Can Vary
While some serviced apartments sit near MRT stations, others require a bus ride or longer walk to reach key attractions. Location research is essential to avoid inconvenient commutes. - Quality Isn’t Guaranteed
Chain hotels like Hilton maintain consistent standards, but serviced apartments in Singapore vary by provider. Some shine with modern finishes, while others feel outdated, making thorough reviews a must.
Top Serviced Apartments in Singapore Across Three Budgets
After exploring numerous options, here are standout serviced apartments in Singapore, categorized into budget, mid-range, and luxury tiers. Prices are approximate (as of March 2025) and subject to seasonal changes.
Budget-Friendly (Under $150 SGD/Night)
- Great World Serviced Apartments
- Location: River Valley, near Orchard Road
- Highlights: Spacious units with contemporary decor, a refreshing outdoor pool, and a complimentary shuttle to the MRT make this a budget gem. Guests enjoy proximity to Great World City mall for shopping and dining, plus easy access to Orchard’s retail paradise—just a 10-minute ride away.
- Cost: ~$120 SGD/night for a studio.
- Village Residence Hougang
- Location: Hougang (northeast, residential)
- Highlights: Quiet and family-oriented, this property offers large apartments with full kitchens, ideal for extended stays. Amenities include a playground, gym, and BBQ pits, fostering a community feel. Hougang MRT is nearby, connecting guests to the city center in about 20 minutes.
- Cost: ~$130 SGD/night.
- Heritage Collection on Seah
- Location: Bugis, central yet artsy
- Highlights: Compact yet chic, these apartments feature smart design with loft-style layouts and kitchenettes. Located in a heritage shophouse, it’s steps from Bugis MRT, Haji Lane’s quirky cafes, and the vibrant Kampong Glam district—perfect for culture enthusiasts.
- Cost: ~$140 SGD/night.
Mid-Range ($150–$300 SGD/Night)
- Fraser Place Robertson Walk
- Location: Robertson Quay, trendy riverside
- Highlights: Modern apartments boast Mediterranean-inspired decor, full kitchens, and access to a pool and gym. The riverside setting offers a laid-back vibe with trendy bars and eateries nearby, while Clarke Quay’s nightlife is a short walk away. Robertson Quay MRT keeps the CBD accessible.
- Cost: ~$250 SGD/night for a one-bedroom.
- Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Beach Road
- Location: Near Arab Street, central
- Highlights: Sleek suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows, plush furnishings, and a stunning rooftop pool with city views. Guests love the blend of business-ready facilities (like meeting rooms) and cultural proximity—Arab Street’s textiles and Sultan Mosque are practically next door. Bugis MRT is a five-minute stroll.
- Cost: ~$280 SGD/night.
Luxury (Over $300 SGD/Night)
- Ascott Raffles Place Singapore
- Location: CBD, heritage building
- Highlights: Housed in a restored 1950s art deco tower, this property blends vintage charm with modern luxury—think marble bathrooms, skyline views, and a rooftop infinity pool. Business travelers enjoy the CBD location, while tourists are a quick MRT ride from Marina Bay. On-site dining and a gym add to the upscale appeal.
- Cost: ~$350 SGD/night.
- Capri by Fraser Changi City
- Location: Changi Business Park
- Highlights: Contemporary design shines with vibrant interiors, spacious suites, and a massive outdoor pool surrounded by greenery. Tailored for business travelers, it’s near Changi Airport and the Expo MRT, with a 24-hour gym and steam rooms for relaxation. Nearby Jewel Changi is a bonus for leisure.
- Cost: ~$320 SGD/night.
- Oakwood Premier AMTD Singapore
- Location: CBD, near Marina Bay
- Highlights: Luxurious suites offer high-end finishes, Bose sound systems, and panoramic views from an infinity pool. Guests rave about the executive lounge, personalized service, and prime location—steps from Lau Pa Sat hawker center and a short walk to Marina Bay Sands. Tanjong Pagar MRT is right outside.
- Cost: ~$400 SGD/night.
Why Singapore Loves Serviced Apartments
Singapore’s high cost of living and fast-paced environment make serviced apartments in Singapore a natural fit. Dining out—$15 SGD for chicken rice in tourist areas—adds up quickly, so self-catering offers substantial savings. The efficient MRT system connects every corner, meaning even residential locations like Hougang remain accessible. Plus, the city’s safety and cleanliness ensure residential neighborhoods feel just as welcoming as central districts.
Tips for Booking Serviced Apartments in Singapore
- Scout Providers: Trusted brands like Ascott, Fraser, or Pan Pacific deliver consistent quality—check their websites for promotions or loyalty programs to snag deals.
- Map It Out: Choose a location near an MRT line for seamless travel; use Google Maps to calculate commute times to key spots like Orchard Road or Sentosa.
- Read Up: Platforms like TripAdvisor, Booking.com, or posts on X provide unfiltered guest feedback—look for comments on cleanliness, noise levels, and staff responsiveness.
- Ask Questions: Contact properties directly to verify Wi-Fi speed (crucial for remote work), cleaning frequency (daily or weekly?), and extras like parking, late check-in options, or crib availability for families.
- Book Early: Singapore’s peak seasons (e.g., Formula 1 weekend or Chinese New Year) spike demand—secure a spot months ahead to avoid slim pickings or inflated rates.
Final Thoughts
Serviced apartments in Singapore offer a compelling option for travelers seeking comfort, affordability, and a local experience. They may lack the glamour of high-end hotels like Raffles or the Fullerton, but their spacious layouts, cost-saving kitchens, and flexible terms cater to diverse needs—whether it’s a family needing room to roam, a solo traveler craving independence, or a professional settling in for weeks. The variety across budget, mid-range, and luxury tiers ensures something for every wallet, while their spread across the city—from central Bugis to serene Changi—lets guests pick their perfect vibe. In a destination where every dollar and minute counts, these apartments strike a balance of practicality and charm, making them a smart choice for short escapes or long-term stays in the Lion City.
Need more details on reviews or specific properties? Just ask!