Where To Stay In Singapore With Family – 5 Best Options
When asking yourself, where to stay in Singapore with family, you only have a few reasonable options.
Although I visited Singapore mostly for work, I visited the city enough times to give you a good answer to this question.
Most travelers think that Singapore is an expensive destination but for tourists, it doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. Even when traveling with kids.
And aside from all the regular tourist attractions, Singapore is home to many family attractions, meaning that all of you will have a blast.
This vibrant city-state is a dream for family travelers. Whether your kids are animal lovers, thrill-seekers, or budding scientists, Singapore has something to keep their curiosity piqued.
The Marina Bay Sands SkyPark offers stunning city views from this iconic rooftop observation deck.
Chinatown is filled with temples, street food, and history. Little India offers colorful streets that you can explore.
And Merlion Park is the place to be for a family picture. Once you’re done with sightseeing, spoil your kids and head over to one of the amazing family parks.
You can find Universal Studios Singapore, Singapore Zoo, Gardens by the Bay, and S.E.A. Aquarium here as well.
In other words, Singapore has the ingredients to be a super exciting destination for young and old. And no matter where you need to be, Singapore’s incredible public transport will take you there in a breeze.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best areas to stay in Singapore with your family.
Each area comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, which will be summarized at the end of the paragraph.
At the bottom of this article, you’ll find a map highlighting all our recommended family-friendly areas to stay in Singapore, along with the city’s main attractions.
We start with an overview, which allows you to scan quickly which area might be the best option.
Now, let’s dive into our top recommendations!
The best areas to stay in Singapore with family are Sentosa Island, Marina Bay, Orchard Road, Clarke Quay, and the East Coast.
All of these areas have family-friendly attractions located nearby and almost all of them have excellent access to public transport.
I must admit that some of these areas are considered higher-end.
But it’s perfectly possible to stay in a budget-friendly area.
The Historical Districts of Singapore offer affordable accommodations.
Below, I’ll break down each of these recommended areas in more detail to help you decide which is the best fit for your family.
Tip: Tap on the name of the area to jump directly to that section of the article for more information!
Sentosa Island: This resort island located right under Singapore’s mainland is completely designed for families with many large resorts available that cater to young and old. Keep in mind that this part of Singapore can get pricy easily, but it also offers all the amenities you as a family can dream of.
Marina Bay: This part of Singapore is home to the famous boat-shaped rooftop and is among the modern parts of Singapore. Many attractions are located nearby and you have great access to public transport to reach the other parts of the city.
Orchard Road: This area is considered a luxury area and is known for being the famous shopping street of the city. However, it’s good to know that several family-friendly activities are located nearby, including the Singapore Zoo and the Night Safari. But it’s not the place for those traveling on a stricter budget.
Clarke Quay: This area is located near the historical districts, meaning that it’s fairly possible to find affordable accommodation here as well as having great access to the history of the city.
East Coast: If you’re looking for a quieter area, consider staying in East Coast. Just keep in mind that you’re located further away from the major attractions, although you do have a direct MRT Line that takes you straight to the heart of Singapore.
The best areas to stay in Singapore with family are:
1. Sentosa Island
Known as the “State of Fun,” the island is packed with attractions that cater to all ages, making it a great base for a family vacation.
Accessibility is a breeze—Sentosa is connected to the mainland via a short monorail ride, cable car, or even a scenic walk across the Sentosa Boardwalk.
While it may not be the cheapest option, the variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to family-friendly hotels, ensures there’s something for different budgets.
Dining options are plentiful, with family-oriented restaurants offering everything from local hawker-style dishes to international cuisines.
Kids will love iconic attractions like Universal Studios Singapore, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and the S.E.A. Aquarium, while parents can unwind at Siloso Beach or explore the island’s lush nature trails.
Despite being a resort destination, Sentosa’s proximity to central Singapore makes it convenient to explore popular spots like Marina Bay Sands or Orchard Road, which are just a short ride away
Pros
- Packed with family-friendly attractions, offering endless entertainment for kids and adults alike.
- Convenient accessibility to central Singapore via monorail, cable car, or walkways.
- Stunning beaches and lush green spaces for relaxation and outdoor fun.
Cons
- Accommodations can lean toward the pricey side.
- The area can get crowded, especially around Taipei 101.
- Less traditional or “local” ambiance compared to older parts of the city
2. Marina Bay
Marina Bay is one of the most vibrant and central locations in Singapore, making it easy to explore nearby landmarks like Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, and the Merlion Park.
Accessibility is seamless, with MRT stations like Bayfront and Marina Bay connecting you to the rest of the city.
While accommodation here tends to be on the higher end, the area boasts luxurious hotels that often include family-friendly amenities like pools, babysitting services, and spacious rooms.
Food options are abundant, ranging from fine dining with panoramic views to food courts like Rasapura Masters, offering affordable and diverse meals for the whole family.
Marina Bay also shines at night, with a stunning skyline, the Spectra light and water show, and waterfront promenades perfect for a family stroll.
While the area is sophisticated and polished, it’s also kid-friendly, with attractions like the ArtScience Museum offering interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for young ones.
For families wanting to combine convenience, comfort, and access to some of Singapore’s most iconic attractions, Marina Bay is hard to beat.
If your budget allows it, it doesn’t get much better than this.
Pros
- Ultra-convenient central location, close to top attractions and MRT stations.
- Iconic skyline and plenty of family-friendly activities, including Gardens by the Bay.
- Wide range of dining options, from affordable food courts to world-class restaurants.
Cons
- Accommodation can be expensive, limiting budget-friendly options.
- Less emphasis on local culture and authenticity due to its modern, upscale vibe.
- Busy and tourist-heavy, which might feel overwhelming for some families.
3. Orchard Road
Known as Singapore’s shopping haven, Orchard Road is lined with massive malls like ION Orchard, Ngee Ann City, and Paragon, which cater to all budgets and often feature kid-friendly attractions like play zones, family restaurants, and even indoor playgrounds.
For a break from shopping, nearby Fort Canning Park provides a lush green space where kids can run around or explore the historical trails, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
But the main reason why Orchard Road is such a great base is its accessibility, all while being surrounded by all the shops, comforts, restaurants, and entertainment venues you can think of.
The MRT Orchard Station and Somerset Station connect you seamlessly to Singapore’s key attractions, such as Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa Island, and the Singapore Zoo.
Many hotels in this area offer family-friendly accommodations, from spacious suites to kid-themed rooms.
While Orchard Road has a reputation for being upscale, you can still find budget-friendly food courts like those in the Food Republic or Hawker Centres, where you can enjoy local dishes without spending a fortune.
The area’s walkability, clean sidewalks, and stroller-friendly infrastructure make it easy to navigate with young kids.
Pros
- Central location with excellent MRT connections to major attractions.
- Family-friendly malls with play areas, dining, and activities for kids.
- Nearby green spaces like Fort Canning Park for outdoor fun.
Cons
- Accommodations and dining tend to be pricier compared to other areas.
- The shopping-centric vibe may not appeal to those seeking cultural experiences.
- Can get crowded, especially on weekends and during sales seasons.
4. Clarke Quay
For a vibrant yet scenic area to stay, Clarke Quay is a great option to consider.
Known for its riverside charm and colorful shophouses, Clarke Quay is packed with dining, entertainment, and outdoor spaces that cater to all ages.
While it’s famous for its nightlife, the area also offers plenty of family-friendly activities during the day.
Besides, the nightlife scene in Singapore is far more sophisticated than in other cities throughout Southeast Asia.
Kids will love a Singapore River Cruise, where they can enjoy the views of iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion.
The Fort Canning Park, just a short walk away, provides ample space for outdoor adventures and historical trails that are both fun and educational.
Accessibility is another big draw.
With Clarke Quay MRT Station on the Downtown Line, you’re well-connected to major attractions like Chinatown, Gardens by the Bay, and Sentosa Island.
The central location means shorter travel times, making it easier to keep kids engaged. Dining options are abundant, ranging from casual riverside cafes to hawker favorites nearby, so there’s something for even the pickiest eaters.
Accommodations in Clarke Quay include boutique hotels and serviced apartments, ideal for families looking for comfort and convenience.
If you’re traveling on a stricter budget, make sure to stay closer to the other Historical Districts like Little India and Chinatown. These two are particularly known for its affordability.
Pros
- Central location with great MRT access and walkability.
- Riverside activities like boat cruises and dining with scenic views.
- Close to family-friendly spots like Fort Canning Park and Chinatown.
Cons
- Can be noisy in the evenings due to the area’s nightlife scene.
- Accommodations here can be on the pricier side.
- Limited traditional or cultural vibe compared to areas like Kampong Glam or Little India.
5. East Coast
The last area that I recommend is East Coast. For families visiting Singapore who seek a true laid-back and spacious vibe compared to the bustling city center, Singapore’s East Coast is perfect.
This area is ideal for those who value outdoor activities and scenic surroundings while still being relatively close to major attractions.
The highlight of East Coast is undoubtedly East Coast Park, a massive beachfront park where families can rent bikes, have a picnic, or enjoy a stroll along the scenic coastline.
The park also features playgrounds and water play areas, making it a hit with kids.
While East Coast doesn’t have direct MRT access yet, it’s well-served by buses and taxis, and the upcoming Thomson-East Coast MRT Line will make it even more convenient.
It’s also close to Changi Airport, so you can avoid long transfers when arriving or leaving.
For food, the East Coast area is a paradise, home to iconic hawker centers like East Coast Lagoon Food Village, where you can enjoy Singapore’s famous dishes like satay and chili crab in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
Accommodations in this area range from luxury hotels with ocean views to more budget-friendly serviced apartments, making it suitable for a variety of budgets.
The quieter environment and open spaces make East Coast ideal for families looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle without sacrificing convenience.
Pros
- Family-friendly outdoor spaces like East Coast Park with plenty of activities.
- Proximity to Changi Airport for easy arrivals and departures.
- Incredible local food options in a relaxed setting.
Cons
- Limited public transport options until the MRT line is fully operational.
- Not as centrally located as areas like Marina Bay or Orchard Road.
- Fewer cultural and historical attractions compared to other neighborhoods.