World's Best

The Top 5 City Hotels in Singapore

By

Published on September 8, 2021

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

Much like the Southeast Asian island nation itself, Singapore's hotels combine both cutting-edge modernity and an appreciation of tradition. From skyscrapers like the Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore (No. 2), in the glittering Marina Bay neighborhood, to the storied Raffles Singapore (No. 4), readers found places to suit every taste.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities.

"The true icon of Singapore" is how one reader described Raffles. The hotel, which originally debuted in 1887 and underwent a two-year renovation from 2017-2019, is largely considered one of the most instantly recognizable hotels in Asia, thanks to its sparkling white façade. Another exclaimed that a stay there was "truly one of the best hotel experiences I've ever had. The restaurants are amazing, the butler service is top-notch, and the rooms are so comfortable and elegant."

Taking the No. 3 spot is Capella Singapore, with an enviable location on a Sentosa Island hilltop that affords views of the Singapore Strait. "It's the perfect getaway within the city," wrote a reader, describing it as a "mix of perfect beach and great city life." Because the property is set on 30 acres, readers say it often feels like a resort — especially the 38 villas, which have their own pools, outdoor showers, and lush gardens.

The real hotel star of Singapore this year, though, was the Fullerton. Read on for more about what made it the favorite and the full list of the best hotels in Singapore.

1. The Fullerton Hotel Singapore

One of Singapore's grande dames, this Neoclassical landmark moved up two notches this year to capture the top spot. Housing various government agencies and a post office when it opened in 1928, the structure was designated a national monument in 2015 and still contains remnants of its past — the Fullerton Heritage Gallery documents the building's evolution while guided tours offer exclusive access to preserved areas within the hotel. Its 408 guest rooms, meanwhile, are more contemporary, with sleek furnishings and a color palette of cool cream, gray, and beige, and some have views of Marina Bay. Readers especially love the 80-foot swimming pool, which overlooks the Singapore River and the city's skyscrapers.

Score: 97.11
More information: fulltertonhotels.com