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11 Best Hotels In the Heartlands For a Staycay Without Travelling Too Far

Best heartland hotels in Singapore


Visiting town for a staycation can get repetitive after a while, since it’s the same old hotels that always get booked up. For a change, embark on an adventure in the suburbs and check out some of these lesser-known hotels located away from the CBD. Get away from the touristy crowds at these heartland hotels. They’re still close to malls and good food, so you won’t get bored.

Hotel Price Nearest MRT Travel time to Orchard (by car)
Aqueen Hotel Paya Lebar From $130/night Paya Lebar 20 minutes
The Serangoon House From $137 Farrer Park 12 minutes
Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy From $147.25 Marine Parade 20 minutes
D’ Hotel Singapore From $160/night Outram Park 8 minutes
Aloft Singapore Novena From $170 Novena 13 minutes
Park Avenue Rochester From $172.55/night Buona Vista 17 minutes
Village Hotel Katong From $180 Marine Parade 22 minutes
Shipping Container Hotel From $210/night One-North 14 minutes
Genting Hotel Jurong From $214/night Jurong East 19 minutes
Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong From $238/night Marine Parade 21 minutes

1. Shipping Container Hotel @one-north


Stay in a “tiny home”


Shipping Container Hotel exterior
Image credit: Shipping Container Hotel

Experiencing tiny home living doesn’t require a flight to Europe – just get down to Queenstown to check this off your bucket list. Despite its small exterior, the Shipping Container Hotel at one-north is really spacious inside.

You’ll find an air-conditioned bedroom with a king-size bed, a fully-equipped kitchenette, and a spiffy standalone bathtub if you’re in the mood for a hot soak. There’s enough room for 4 adults, and in case you need more space, the living room has a hidden Murphy bed. If more people are joining in, you can request for a sofa bed to be set up for $50.

Shipping Container Hotel room
Image credit: Shipping Container Hotel

Don’t let the hotel room’s secluded appearance fool you; you’ll still have access to WiFi and Netflix if your idea of a vacation is to lepak in bed all day.  If you feel like heading out, take the train from one-north MRT station one stop down to Holland Village to shop and dine at the breezy One Holland Village shopping mall

Address
Opening Hours:
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Contact Information
RECOMMENDED TICKETS AT S$167

2. Genting Hotel Jurong


Walking distance to Jem & Westgate


Genting Hotel Jurong
Image credit: Booking.com

We’ve got good news – you don’t have to cross the border to stay at a Genting Hotel as there’s one right here in the West.

Genting Hotel Jurong is ideal for those who want connectivity within their reach but still crave a quiet getaway among the flora and fauna. In the vicinity, Jem and Westgate are 2 major shopping malls only about a 6-minute walk away, where you can shop, watch a movie, or grab a bite to eat.

Genting Hotel Jurong roomImage credit: Resorts World Sentosa 

Back at the hotel, the rooms are decorated in vibrant colours with large windows allowing lots of natural light to stream in, making it very inviting. Drop by their gorgeous outdoor pool for a leisurely dip or their gymnasium to work up a sweat.

Genting Hotel Jurong pool
Image credit: Resorts World Sentosa

If you are feeling famished, head down to the hotel’s Festive Cafe which specialises in whipping up Asian fare, so swing by to chow down at their sumptuous buffet spreads during your stay.

Admission Fee
Rates: From $212/night
Google Reviews
4.1
(2,744)
Address
2 Town Hall Link, Singapore 608516
Opening Hours:
Thursday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings
Contact Information
RECOMMENDED TICKETS AT S$199

3. Park Avenue Rochester


Suites for $233/night


Park Avenue Rochester roomImage credit: Park Avenue Rochester

It’s no secret that we Singaporeans want to live bougie but on a budget. If you’re feeling thrifty, check out the 1-bedroom executive deluxe suite at Park Avenue Rochester. With a cosy and homey decor, it measures a whopping 549 sqft, sports a luxurious king-sized bed, and a flat screen tv.

It also comes with a fully functional kitchenette, so you can cook up a storm during Netflix marathons. For what it offers, it’s also pretty affordable from about $233/night. Where else can you get a hotel suite below $500/night? Whenever you’re hungry, Rochester Mall next door offers a wide variety of local and western restaurants.

Park Avenue Rochester pool
Image credit: Trip.com

Plus, they have a stunning outdoor swimming pool with a mini waterfall, surrounded by a garden, so you can enjoy the lush greenery while you swim.

Admission Fee
From $259.82/night
Google Reviews
4.2
(1,279)
Address
31 Rochester Dr, Singapore 138637
Opening Hours:
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Contact Information
RECOMMENDED TICKETS AT S$138

4. Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong


Boutique hotel with infinity pool


Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong
Image credit: IHG

What was once the Joo Chiat Police Station has now been transformed into Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong. Decorated with Peranakan murals, tiles, and furnishings, the decor is vibrant and artistic, making it the perfect staycay spot for the ‘Gram.

The rooms even feature floor-to-ceiling windows that can create a larger sense of space and offer bird’s eye views of the neighbourhood.

Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong poolImage credit: IHG

Get in a leisurely swim with laps in the long outdoor infinity pool that overlooks the pretty Joo Chiat and Katong precinct to catch a glimpse of the IG-famous colourful shophouses.

Baba Chews Bar & EateryImage credit: Baba Chews

Check out their in-house restaurant, Baba Chews Bar & Eatery that offers a fusion of local and western cuisines, or head to the rooftop to clink glasses at the Sky-High Serenity At Rooftop 88 bar. There are also plenty of IG-famous cafes and restaurants in Joo Chiat if you feel like exploring the neighbourhood.

Admission Fee
From $294/night
Google Reviews
4.5
(997)
Address
86 E Coast Rd, Singapore 428788
Opening Hours:
Thursday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings
Contact Information
RECOMMENDED TICKETS AT S$222.71

5. Citadines Connect Rochester Singapore


Stunning views of Buona Vista


Citadines Connect Rochester Singapore room
Image credit: Discover ASR

With its cool and earthy tones, the rooms at Citadines Connect Rochester Singapore will give you a sense of zen the moment you walk in. Take advantage of floor-to-ceiling windows to enjoy sweeping views of the off-beaten Buona Vista neighbourhood while relaxing in the calming ambience.

For the full experience, choose the Deluxe Garden room for access to the mini garden where you can do outdoor yoga every day.

Citadines Connect Rochester Singapore pool
The pool has deck chairs so you can chill or read a book while you soak up the rays.

Image credit: Discover ASR

It’s also worth mentioning that the hotel has a refresh and recharge hospitality lounge where you can take a shower before you’ve checked in or even after you’ve checked out.

If you’re looking to explore this part of Singapore, you can check out Timbre+, a bar known for its live music, at one-north or Star Vista mall.

Citadines Connect Rochester
Admission Fee
From $330/Night.
Address
Opening Hours:
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6. D’Hotel Singapore


Has tons of food options nearby


D'Hotel Singapore room
Studio with balcony room.

Image credit: Klook

Elegantly decorated, each room at D’Hotel Singapore includes a 37-inch flat screen TV, a king-size bed, a rainfall shower, and a free-standing soak tub. You can even cast your favourite movies and shows to the big screen using Google Chromecast.

However, there isn’t a restaurant within the hotel for when your stomach’s rumbling, consider this a blessing in disguise. That’s because you’ve got a plethora of yummy options when you set foot in the nearby Tiong Bahru neighborhood.

Tiong Bahru Bakery
Image credit: @tiongbahrubakery via Instagram

From the hawker stalls at Tiong Bahru Market to fresh bakes at the famous Tiong Bahru Bakery, you’re not going to run out of grub to taste-test during your stay at D’ Hotel Singapore.

D’Hotel Singapore
Google Reviews
4.1
(264)
Address
231 Outram Rd, Singapore 169040
Opening Hours:
Thursday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings
Contact Information

7. Aqueen Hotel Paya Lebar


For foodies & shopaholics


Aqueen Hotel Paya Lebar roomImage credit: Klook

Located smack in the middle of Paya Lebar, Aqueen Hotel Paya Lebar is a great place to stay for shopping and eating local Malay food.

Geylang Serai Market foodImage credit: Eatbook

Taste your way to bliss by trying popular dishes at Geylang Serai market which is only a 5-minute drive away. Be sure to try the famous Cendol Geylang Serai ($2) and Mutton Briyani ($6) from Geylang Hamid’s Briyani stall.

As for shopping, the aforementioned PLQ Mall, Singpost Centre, and Paya Lebar Square are all located within walking distance of one another.

Admission Fee
From $107/night
Google Reviews
4
(937)
Address
33 Jln Afifi, Singapore 409180
Opening Hours:
Thursday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings
Contact Information
RECOMMENDED TICKETS AT S$112

8. Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy


10 min walk from ECP & Cafes


Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy
Image credit: Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy

Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy has rooms that are perfect for families with little ones. In a natural and homely setting, the rooms are furnished with either a king-size bed or 2 twin beds to suit your needs.

If you’d rather stay in, grab a bite at one of the hotel’s in-house eateries – Feast Asia which serves local and western dishes, Jia Wei Chinese restaurant, or the Roxy Divine cafe.

Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy pool|
Of course, there’s a pool to lounge about in your swimwear.

Image credit: Klook

If these amenities don’t do it for you, head over to East Coast Park and get a bite from the nearby cafes at Parkland Green, a food and lifestyle hub at the beach. It is just 10 minutes away when you walk via the Marine Parade underpass.

There are also a couple of malls nearby including Roxy Square where you can get yourself a mani-pedi, and the i12 Katong shopping mall that sports an indoor climbing wall.

Admission Fee
From $208/night
Google Reviews
4.3
(3,725)
Address
50 East Coast Road, Marine Parade Rd, Roxy Square, Singapore 428769
Opening Hours:
Thursday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings
Contact Information
RECOMMENDED TICKETS AT S$182.02

9. Village Hotel Katong


Peranakan-style staycation


Village Hotel Katong room
Club Room.

Image credit: Village Hotel Katong

Peranakan decor welcomes you from the moment you walk through the doors of Village Hotel Katong. With 7 types of rooms to choose from, the hotel accommodates couples and families from their most basic Superior Rooms to their luxurious suites.

Village Hotel Katong pool
Image credit: Village Hotel Katong 

You can cool off and unwind in their outdoor swimming pool. Or, if you are a Far East Hospitality member, you can access the Peranakan Club Lounge for complimentary cocktails in the evenings.

While you’re in the ‘hood, get a deeper understanding of the culture by checking out the many heritage walking tours that are conducted in the area. To commemorate the occasion, snap some Instagram-worthy photos at the famous colourful shophouses. And don’t miss out on the famous 328 Katong Laksa just around the corner.\

Admission Fee
From $207/night
Google Reviews
4.4
(1,382)
Address
25 Marine Parade Rd, Singapore 449536
Opening Hours:
Thursday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings
Contact Information
RECOMMENDED TICKETS AT S$129

10. The Serangoon House


Opulent Indian colonial theme


The Serangoon House roomImage credit: Marriott

Those of you who love Disney will absolutely adore The Serangoon House. Gold embellishments cover the beds and furniture, giving off major Disney princess vibes and an atas-like feeling. That said, you’ll be getting a taste of the high life without spending a fortune.

The Serangoon HouseImage credit: Marriott

You don’t have to leave the hotel if you’re hungry, just head down to GupShup restaurant. Enjoy cultural delicacies from Punjab, Delhi, Bombay, and Calcutta at this eatery that sells gourmet tapas. For midnight cravings, hit up the restaurant kiosk for takeout food or exotic drinks.

Just a heads up – even though this hotel is quite chic, it’s a small boutique hotel. So don’t bring too much of your barang-barang or expect a royal room unless you opt for the suite. Instead, think of the smaller space as providing a more intimate and cosy atmosphere.

Google Reviews
4.4
(508)
Address
301 Serangoon, Singapore 218224
Contact Information
RECOMMENDED TICKETS AT S$164

11. Aloft Singapore Novena


Complimentary shuttle service to Novena MRT


Aloft Singapore Novena
Image credit: Tripadvisor

For the best of both worlds, consider booking a stay at Aloft Singapore Novena. The bustling CBD is but a couple of MRT stops away, while the quaint charm of Balestier and Toa Payoh neighbourhoods is just within reach as well.

Speaking of which, when you decide to venture out of the hotel, the Zhongshan Mall is also right beside your accommodations if you’d like a quick bite to eat. For trips beyond that, there’s even a complimentary shuttle bus service that’ll bring you to and from Novena MRT.

Aloft Singapore Novena room
The 1 Bedroom Suite.
Image credit: Aloft Novena Singapore

As for rooms, their Breezy rooms are mighty affordable, starting at $170/night, but if you’re bunking with a crowd, you can opt for their spacious Urban rooms or 1 Bedroom Suites. When the sun’s out, get your daily intake of Vitamin D at the outdoor swimming pool, or hit the weights at the hotel’s fully-equipped gym.

Google Reviews
4.3
(3,468)
Address
16 Ah Hood Rd, Singapore 329982
Opening Hours:
Thursday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings
Contact Information
RECOMMENDED TICKETS AT S$188

Visit these heartland hotels in Singapore

By booking a room at one of these lesser-known heartland hotels, you’ll be able to avoid crowds and exorbitantly high rates. If you’re on a budget but still want to have a staycation for a quick getaway or to celebrate a special occasion, then this might be a great alternative.

To find more hotels for your next staycay, check out:


Cover image adapted by: IHG, Shipping Container Hotel, Marriott
A portion of this content may contain referral links to products. However, all opinions are ours.
Last updated by Khoo Yong Hao on 6th February 2025.