Top 15 Cool and Unusual Hotels in Singapore

On my many trips to Singapore, I’ve stayed in an array of unforgettable places that beautifully combined style, personality, and jaw-dropping design. Here’s my handpicked collection of favorites in this exotic island nation…

1. Naumi

Naumi was one of the coolest boutique hotels I stayed in — playful, design-led, and full of cheeky art touches that gave it a fun, creative edge. Bold murals, sculptural lighting, and velvet-and-silk textures made it feel boutique-luxury with personality.

My Coco Chanel/Andy Warhol-inspired suite had a mirrored wall, king bed, rain shower, soaking tub with SOAK toiletries, plus a yoga mat and in-room aromatherapy.

I loved sipping a Lychee Martini in the rooftop infinity pool while spotting Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer, and tasting everything from tandoori mushroom bentos to veggie pasta at the chic restaurants. Its Civic District location was perfect — steps from Bugis’ shops, heritage sights, and foodie haunts.

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My personal highlights… 

• Swimming in the rooftop infinity pool with a iconic Singapore Sling, I soaked up breathtaking views of the skyline, spotting the Singapore Flyer, Marina Bay Sands, the CBD, and even Fort Canning Park!

2. JW Marriott South Beach

Walking into JW Marriott South Beach felt like stepping into a living artwork — with painted concrete floors, soaring light-filled spaces, and Philippe Starck’s cheeky design flourishes, it had a stylish, cosmopolitan buzz.

The lobby was a showpiece with its dramatic ceiling of light fixtures and mesmerizing video wall, and I loved the playful pops of color set against the restored heritage military buildings.

My room had floor-to-ceiling city views, a sleek leather headboard, motion-sensor lighting, and a marble bathroom with Aromatherapy Associates toiletries — the freestanding tub was my favorite spot to soak while watching the skyline.

I swam in the Flow18 rooftop infinity pool overlooking Marina Bay, sipped cocktails at the Court Martial Bar, and treated myself to an Asia Heritage Massage before exploring the Civic District, just steps from Marina Bay and the National Gallery.

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My favorite highlights…

• Being greeted by Botero’s dramatic Donna a Cavallo bronze sculpture in the lobby, a bold, larger-than-life statement that I thought really set the tone for the hotel’s arty vibe!

3. ParkRoyal Collection Pickering

ParkRoyal Collection Pickering was one of the most striking eco-luxury hotels I’ve stayed in — billed as the world’s first “hotel-in-a-garden,” it wowed me with four-story sky gardens draped in greenery, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic planter terraces wrapping around the building.

Inside, sleek contemporary interiors mixed wood, stone, and natural textures, creating a tranquil, eco-conscious vibe that still felt luxurious — a refreshing contrast to the city buzz outside.

My room felt like a serene retreat with floor-to-ceiling windows, a marble bathroom with eco-friendly Appelles toiletries, filtered water taps, and a Nespresso machine. I loved curling up on the window daybed with the skyline spread out before me.

I sampled creative Asian dishes at LIME, floated in the infinity pool surrounded by birdcage-style cabanas, and treated myself to a detox spa session — it felt like swimming in a sky garden. Service was polished yet genuinely warm.

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My highlights… 

• Going for a detoxifying Algocalm facial which included a Sensibiote Soothing Mask at their very zen-like, award-winning spa (and left my skin glowing and ready for the night)!

4. Andaz Hotel

Andaz Singapore instantly impressed me in the striking DUO twin towers, with André Fu’s warm, residential-style interiors and its quirky rooftop bar, Mr. Stork, complete with teepee huts overlooking Marina Bay.

The minimalist-chic design mixed natural oak, soft textiles, and floor-to-ceiling windows for a stylish yet welcoming neighborhood vibe.

My room carried the same sleek touch with oak-paneled walls, a king bed with crisp 300-thread-count linens, a Nespresso machine, and a rain shower stocked with Bespoke 55th Street toiletries by NYC perfumer Jonathan Adler. I loved the complimentary minibar filled with local snacks.

I joined the evening reception, nibbled on Mala nuts, swam in the 25th-floor pool, and ended nights with cocktails in Mr. Stork’s teepees. Its location was perfect — between Kampung Glam and Bugis, a short walk to the MRT, and with Marina Bay views.

• To book, check prices or dates for Andaz Hotel

My highlights… 

• Dining at their 5 ON 25 modern Cantonese restaurant, I loved their divine Dim Sum – especially the steamed beetroot dumpling with shacha sauce and the crispy shiitake mushrooms which came with osmanthus honey!

5. YOTEL Orchard Road

This felt like a futuristic gem in Singapore’s shopping district — sleek, space-inspired “cabins” and clever tech touches made my stay fun and efficient.

Inside, glossy white surfaces, purple accent lighting, and smart built-ins created a minimalist, modern vibe that felt youthful and perfect for city explorers.

My compact cabin had a motorized SmartBed™, smart TV, fold-out desk, and rain shower with Urban Jungle toiletries, plus floor-to-ceiling Orchard Road views. I loved the voice-controlled lighting and YOTEL app that let me tweak everything from air con to service requests.

I lounged by the rooftop pool with skyline views, tried local bites at the Community bar, and watched the robotic luggage system retrieve my bag — a quirky, very cool detail. Best of all, I was right on Orchard Road with malls, food courts, and MRT links at my doorstep.

• To book, check prices or dates for YOTEL Orchard Road

My favorite highlights… 

• Being served salted egg yolk–flavored potato chips and an ice-cold Tiger Beer by the super-intelligent (and cute!) room service robots YOSHI and YOLANDA (and making friends with them at the same time)!

6. W Sentosa Cove

This was one of the boldest hotels I stayed in the island country — a luxury resort-meets-party playground with neon accents, oversized art, and one of the island’s largest pools glowing at night. It felt glamorous, indulgent, and like a destination in itself.

Inside, mirrored walls, giant art installations, and galvanized steel details set a playful, high-energy tone. My room had a W signature bed with 350-thread-count linens, metallic floral motifs, and floor-to-ceiling windows — but the highlight was the round soaking tub glowing against a neon feature wall, pure W-style decadence.

Days were for the massive 1,300 m² WET® pool with underwater speakers and cocktail service, while nights meant drinks at WOOBAR and DJ sets. I also hit the Bliss Spa, the sleek gym, and sampled the trio of fine-dining restaurants. Its exclusive Sentosa Cove location, minutes from Universal Studios, made it the ultimate party-luxe escape.

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My highlights… 

• Going for an awesome Hair Glow treatment at their funky, modern AWAY® Spa — it used nourishing argan oil and amino acids including serine and threonine that left my sun-damaged hair feeling silky and completely replenished

7. Hotel Indigo

I loved my stay at this boutique lifestyle hotel — it charmed me with its blend of Peranakan heritage and playful modern design, feeling both cultural and contemporary.

The interiors popped with vintage floor tiles, rattan furniture, bold murals, and eclectic accents, creating a quirky, chic vibe rooted in local tradition but still fresh.

My room was Insta-worthy with murals of street scenes, batik cushions, and floor-to-ceiling windows flooding it with light. Thoughtful touches included a king bed, Nespresso machine, and rain shower with Appelles toiletries — but my favorite was the deep freestanding bathtub by the window for a soak with a view.

I sampled Baba Chews’ signature laksa and stir-fried eggplant, then sipped a Katong Sling by the rooftop infinity pool overlooking colorful shophouses and buzzing eateries — the perfect way to feel immersed in the Katong district.

• To book, check prices or dates for Hotel Indigo Hotel

My highlights… 

• I loved the local vibe, browsing treasures at Katong Antique House and sampling Kueh Pie Tee—crispy pastry cups with stewed turnip, veggies, sweet chili, and fried shallots—at Kway Guan Huat Joo Chiat!

8. Hotel Soloha in Chinatown

I thought this trendy boutique hotel was a standout for its jungle-chic design — think Insta-worthy spirit-animal murals, neon-lit hallways, and even bird-call sounds in the corridors!

Inside, tropical greenery, bold wall art, and shophouse charm mixed with neon to create a buzzy, artsy vibe. My rainforest-themed room had artisan furnishings, a plush platform bed, curated local snacks, and a spa-style rainfall shower — and I loved that each floor had its own spirit-animal theme (mine was the hornbill!).

The fun continued with free pandan cake, a courtyard for ping-pong and lounging, and a bar-style reception that welcomed me with a quirky grass-jelly drink. Its lively Chinatown location was ideal — steps from hawker stalls, temples, and the MRT.

• To book, check prices or dates for Hotel Soloha in Chinatown

My personal highlights… 

• Sampling their dramatic Dragon’s Breath cocktail—dragon fruit–infused rum, blue curaçao, and smoking dry ice—in the chic cocktail bar!

9. M Social

I thought this hip, design-led boutique hotel on Robertson Quay deserved a spot for its Philippe Starck interiors, quirky industrial-chic details, loft-style rooms — and its adorable robot butler, Aura, delivering amenities!

The industrial look mixed polished concrete, neon accents, mirrored walls, lava lamps, giant statues, and whimsical designer furniture, creating a trendy, youthful, social vibe with a creative edge.

My room felt like a sleek design haven with concrete walls, chrome fittings, a queen bed with premium linens, LED-lit headboard, mirrored panels, a loaner smartphone, smart TV, and rainfall shower. Watching Aura deliver my amenities was such a fun touch.

I sipped cocktails from the robot bartender at the chic Beast & Butterflies restaurant-bar, tried its East-meets-West dishes, and then enjoyed the lush infinity pool, sundeck, pool table, and gym. The Robertson Quay location was ideal — with riverside bars and dining, and just a short walk to Clarke Quay.

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My personal highlights… 

• All the futuristic tech – I admired the hassle-free self-check in kiosks and how I used a mobile app to unlock my room door!

10. lyf Bugis

I thought this co-living style boutique hotel was a unique Bugis gem, with a community-driven concept, quirky shared spaces, co-working lounges, and Insta-worthy murals.

The design felt whimsical and cosmopolitan with vintage photos, neon signs, and industrial-chic touches, creating a youthful, social vibe perfect for digital nomads and travelers who love to mingle.

My compact room was cleverly designed with a comfy bed, writing desk, smart TV, and space-saving storage. I loved the fun details — a neon loaner phone, quirky artwork, and bulletin boards — and the bold glass-walled bathroom.

The best part was the community spirit. I joined casual events, worked in the funky lounge, and cooked in the colorful shared kitchen before hitting the gym. For food, I tried 25 Degrees’ vegan burgers and sipped wine at Ginett Bistro. Its Bugis location was perfect — right in a hip district packed with indie boutiques and cafés.

• To book, check prices or dates for lyf Bugis

My favorite highlights… 

• Trying the heavenly Apricot and Pineapple Chili Mùa craft Sake served in a sleek ceramic cup with a garnish of dried pineapple  n their trendy onsite Middle Child Wine Bar!

11. The Clan

I really thought this luxury boutique hotel was a gem for its mix of heritage-inspired design, modern sophistication, and its unique “clan rituals.”

The minimalist interiors featured dark wood, brushed metal, oriental motifs, and floor-to-ceiling windows, creating a sophisticated, exclusive atmosphere with subtle old-world nods I adored.

My room had a plush bed with 400-thread-count linens, a Nespresso machine, smart TV, and spa-style bathroom with rain shower and upscale Apotheke toiletries — plus a calligraphy set and Bak Kut Teh cookies, a charming personal touch.

I was welcomed with a traditional tea ceremony, swam laps in the rooftop infinity pool and Jacuzzi, and finished evenings with Chinese cuisine and cocktails at QIN, the stylish rooftop bar. Its Telok Ayer location was perfect — surrounded by heritage shophouses, hawker stalls, and hidden speakeasies.

• To book, check prices or dates for The Clan

My personal highlights… 

• Joining a ‘Master Series’ tour led by a knowledgeable Clan Keeper, and exploring Chinatown, Little India, Tiong Bahru, and the colorful Malay-Muslim quarter of Kampong Glam!

12. Oasia Hotel Downtown

I discovered this striking eco-friendly skyscraper hotel in the CBD — its iconic red tower wrapped in a living vertical garden with 20+ species of climbing plants and breezy sky gardens made it a true standout.

Inside, sleek minimalist design met warm woods, earthy tones, and natural light, giving it a serene, wellness-focused vibe that felt like an urban resort.

My post-modern room had crisp white linens, a smart TV, yoga mat, and floor-to-ceiling windows — but my favorite feature was the spa-style bathroom with rainfall shower, freestanding tub, and sliding glass doors.

I sipped cocktails in the rooftop infinity pool surrounded by vertical gardens, lounged on the sky terrace lawn, hit the 24-hour gym, dined at The Marmalade Pantry, and sampled gins at Cin Cin Bar (the Monkey 47 with lingonberries and elderflower was my pick!). Its Tanjong Pagar location, surrounded by hawker stalls and heritage shophouses, was perfect for exploring.

• To book, check prices or dates for Oasia Hotel Downtown

My personal highlights… 

• The vertical garden which bloomed with striking red Clerodendrum, Antigonon, and yellow-flowering vines, – the receptionist told me that it helped to reduce the urban heat island effect and improve air quality too!

13. Lloyd’s Inn

This minimalist boutique hideaway won me over with its “urban oasis” concept – sleek white architecture surrounded by lush greenery, open-air showers, and Insta-worthy design corners!

With its industrial-chic concrete walls, muted palettes, and minimalist, nature-inspired design of clean lines, white walls, glass, and natural wood accents, this modern spot felt like a calm and intimate retreat in the heart of the city!

My calming minimalist room had a large bed, floor-to-ceiling windows, a smart TV, and my favorite feature – an open-concept bathroom complete with a freestanding bath!

I helped myself to breakfast in the outdoor pantry, cooled off in the tranquil dipping pool, and loved unwinding on the rooftop terrace surrounded by tropical foliage and gardens all in prime Orchard Road location!

• To book, check prices or dates for Lloyd’s Inn

My highlights… 

• The Pantry which was a relaxed communal café space with a microwave and fridge for guests – I grabbed a complimentary iced kopi and kaya toast each morning, sometimes a pandan cake or curry puff too, while chatting with fellow travelers!

14. Raffles Hotel

I had to include this world-famous colonial icon — opened in 1887, declared a national monument in 1987, and the legendary birthplace of the Singapore Sling. Its grand whitewashed facades, tropical courtyards, teakwood floors, and vintage furnishings made it feel timeless, opulent, and utterly glamorous.

My suite featured a four-poster bed with fine linens, high ceilings with a whirling fan, antique furniture, and a marble bathroom. I especially loved the vintage rotary phone, writing desk, and attentive butler service.

I dined at the Michelin-starred Sushi Kanesaka, enjoyed refined Chinese cuisine at Royal China, and of course sipped an original Singapore Sling at the iconic Long Bar while tossing peanut shells on the floor like generations before me — all just steps from the National Gallery and Marina Bay.

• To book, check prices or dates for Raffles Hotel

My highlights… 

• Sipping on an original Singapore Sling made with Brass Lion Singaporean dry gin in the vintage-chic Long Bar, I loved chatting with the staff about its history as the birthplace of the very first Sling! 

15. Wanderlust

This quirky boutique hotel in a restored 1920s Art Deco building in Little India completely charmed me with its playful themed rooms — from whimsical pop-art designs to loft-style studios with hidden surprises.

The interiors fused heritage architecture with eclectic modern design — exposed brick, neon lights, and sleek minimalist details — creating a creative, artsy, boutique-meets-hipster vibe.

My individually styled room had a lush bed, trendy espresso machine, and clever space-saving layout filled with natural light. I especially loved the funky glass-enclosed rainfall shower, and the receptionist even told me there’s a quirky treehouse room!

I dined at the WINEDERLUST bar with its cellar-door concept and extensive wine list, cooled off in the open-air dipping pool, and ended the night with a rich Kopi-C in the cozy lounge.

• To book, check prices or dates for Wanderlust Hotel

My favorite highlights… 

• I loved the lively Little India location, especially trying Shivam Restaurant’s aromatic vegetarian Dal Makhani made with black lentils, onions, garlic, and tomatoes!