Hotel Reviews Suite Luxury

Inspiring Story

The afternoon heat of Singapore softens as you step from the busy city streets into the quiet grand lobby of Raffles Hotel. White marble walkways and towering columns transport you back to 1887. A gentle breeze turns the ceiling fans while the soft chime of a grandfather clock echoes through the halls. Here, legendary writers like Rudyard Kipling and Ernest Hemingway found their inspiration. While sitting in the famous Long Bar with a classic Singapore Sling cocktail in hand, you do not just stay at a hotel you become part of an enduring colonial legacy that has defined luxury for over a century.

Holiday Getaways

Raffles Hotel is best for travelers seeking historic charm combined with absolute privacy. It is an exceptional destination for romantic couples, history enthusiasts, and families looking for unforgettable Holiday Getaways. The property welcomes all ages warmly, allowing children between three and twelve years old to stay free of charge. The signature 24 hour butler service takes care of every small detail, ensuring that multi generational families and luxury seekers enjoy a seamless, stress free vacation in the heart of the city.

Pros

Legendary personalized butler service available around the clock
Beautifully preserved nineteenth century colonial architecture and lush gardens
Massive all suite rooms featuring separate living spaces and elegant marble bathrooms
Home to the original Singapore Sling at Long Bar and world class dining options

Cons

Premium pricing makes it one of the most expensive hotels in Asia
Popular public areas can experience high tourist foot traffic during peak hours
Historic layout means some inner bedroom suites lack direct exterior windows

In-Depth Spotlights

When analyzing value through our In-Depth Spotlights, Raffles Singapore commands a premium rate, with average pricing around 1300 USD per night. March serves as a peak high season where prices rise significantly, while January often offers the lowest seasonal rates.

When compared to neighboring five star properties like the Fairmont Singapore or the JW Marriott South Beach, Raffles operates at a much higher price point, frequently costing double or triple their nightly rates. However, while those modern high rises provide standard luxury rooms, Raffles offers massive 58 square meter suites as its baseline standard, complete with complimentary mini bars, bespoke local toiletries, and dedicated butler care that justifies its grand dame status.

Customer Reviews

Service 9.9 out of 10
Facilities 9.7 out of 10
Value for money 8.8 out of 10
Cleanliness 4.9 out of 5
Location 4.9 out of 5
Overall Rating 4.8 out of 5

Decision Making Content

The main problem travelers face when booking a trip to Singapore is choosing between a modern high rise with skyline views or a historic property. If your priority is a generic infinity pool view and a standard modern room, a high rise fits your needs.

However, if you want an immersive cultural experience, unmatched space, and a quiet sanctuary right in the middle of the downtown district, Raffles solves your dilemma. It eliminates the cold, corporate feel of standard luxury hotels by offering private veranda seating, custom made chocolates, and deep historical roots that create a truly unique stay.

Travel Guides and Tips Safety and Scams Packing Guides

Singapore is incredibly safe with exceptionally low crime rates. Be aware of minor tourist scams around city transit hubs, such as unlicensed drivers offering fixed premium rates instead of using the official taxi meter. Always ensure your taxi meter is running before starting a trip.

When packing, prepare for hot and humid weather year round, interspersed with sudden tropical rain showers. Bring lightweight, breathable clothing made of linen or cotton, a compact travel umbrella, and smart casual attire. The hotel fine dining restaurants, the Writers Bar, and the Grand Lobby enforce a dress code that requires collared shirts, long trousers, and covered shoes for gentlemen.

Transportation Tips

Getting to the hotel is simple. Singapore Changi Airport is just over ten miles away, taking roughly twenty minutes by car. Taxis and rideshare applications are the most efficient and cost effective options for arrivals. For public transit, the Esplanade MRT subway station is a short two minute walk from the hotel entrance, and the City Hall MRT interchange station is less than ten minutes away on foot, connecting you easily to the entire island network.

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive at the hotel and check into your historic suite. Spend your afternoon exploring the lush inner courtyards. In the evening, visit the Long Bar to enjoy a Singapore Sling and participate in the long standing tradition of throwing peanut shells onto the floor.
Day 2 Enjoy a classic breakfast in the historic Tiffin Room. Take a morning walk to the nearby Merlion Park and Marina Bay. Spend your afternoon relaxing by the quiet rooftop swimming pool before heading to an avant garde dinner at Butchers Block.
Day 3 Join an official hotel history tour led by the resident historian. Check out at noon and explore the nearby Bugis Street shopping district for souvenirs before departing for Changi Airport.

Local Food and Local Attractions

The hotel rests within walking distance of iconic sights, including the stunning Marina Bay Sands, the futuristic Gardens by the Bay, and the cultural shops of Kampong Glam. For food, indulge in authentic North Indian cuisine at the hotel Tiffin Room or enjoy the elegant afternoon high tea in the Grand Lobby. Step outside to explore nearby local hawker centers to sample famous Singaporean dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, chili crab, and savory laksa noodles.

Events and Festivals

January to February Enjoy Chinatown festive light ups and lively night markets celebrating Lunar New Year.
June Experience the bustling night stalls and cultural performances during the annual Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations.
August Witness the spectacular fireworks displays and parade rehearsals across the nearby Marina Bay area for Singapore National Day on August 9.
September Experience the high energy Singapore Grand Prix Formula 1 night race, which takes place on the street circuit surrounding the hotel area.

Things to Know and Trivia

The legendary Singapore Sling cocktail was created inside the hotel Long Bar by bartender Ngiam Tong Boon in 1915.
Raffles Singapore is recognized globally as the place where the very last wild tiger in Singapore was chased and shot under the Billiard Room table in 1902.
The property was declared a National Monument by the Singapore government in 1987 during its centenary year.

Frequently Ask Questions

Is there a swimming pool at Raffles Hotel SingaporeYes the hotel features a beautiful outdoor swimming pool located on the rooftop area for hotel guests.
What is the check out time at the hotelStandard check out time is 1200 PM and check in begins starting from 300 PM.
Are children allowed to stay at Raffles Singapore for freeYes families are welcome and children between the ages of three and twelve can stay free of charge.
Does the hotel provide complimentary internet accessYes high speed wireless internet access is available throughout the entire property for all staying guests.
What is the distance between the hotel and Changi AirportThe hotel is approximately ten miles away from Singapore Changi Airport which is a twenty minute drive.
Is a fitness center available on the propertyYes guests have access to a fully equipped fitness center and luxury spa during their stay.
Are there accessible rooms for guests with disabilitiesYes Raffles Singapore provides fully accessible suites equipped with features for guests requiring assistance.
What is the closest subway station to the hotelThe closest subway stop is the Esplanade MRT station located just a two minute walk away.
Is parking available on site for guestsYes the hotel offers complimentary self parking and premium valet parking services for staying guests.
Can non guests visit the famous Long BarYes the Long Bar is open to the general public though waiting lines can be long during peak afternoon hours.