Best Boutique Hotels in Singapore

This upscale boutique opened in 2010 is one of the newest hotels on the Marina Bay waterfront. It's intimate by Singapore hotel standards (100 rooms), and with its top-notch service and wonderful amenities, the property feels exclusive and private. Spacious rooms have masculine decor, with dark colors and wood accents, and come equipped with high-end amenities, including Egyptian cotton linens, Molton Brown toiletries, Nespresso coffeemakers, and iPod docks. Double-glazed floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning bay and skyline views. The vistas can also be enjoyed from the balconies and the deep soaking tubs (note that the glass walls between the tubs and the rooms do have privacy shades). The stylish rooftop bar, the huge pool, and the great dining options round out the experience.

The Hotel Fort Canning is a modern boutique in a beautifully restored historic military building. This early 20th century building has been completely renovated and includes lovely rooms with innovative layouts. Some room categories feature open bathrooms and private decks, while all have plush beds, international plug extensions, and flat-screen TVs. But some guests may feel that the glass-enclosed bathrooms lack privacy. The excellent property amenities include three pools -- one for kids -- along with an Asian bistro, a pizza bar, a cocktail lounge, and a fitness center. The hotel is in a quiet location on a hilltop surrounded by a park, but is close to most attractions and four subway lines.

The Scarlet Hotel is a trendy, 80-room boutique in Chinatown, with a cool rooftop restaurant, darkly lit bistro and bar, and rooms with rich, jewel-toned decor. Creative touches add an element of fun to the rooms, including funky headboards and intricate mirrors. While rooms are on the small side, they are packed with character and some have balconies. Hotel highlights include an outdoor Jacuzzi, small fitness center, and free Wi-Fi. Beyond the dramatic style and appealing restaurant and bar, the hotel also has a central location in Chinatown within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and numerous attractions.

The New Majestic Hotel is a small, historic boutique just outside Chinatown. This stylish hotel has 30 individually decorated rooms with great amenities including Nespresso machines, Kiehl's toiletries, Bose stereos, and plush bedding. While rooms are modern and comfortable, most are small and have glass-enclosed bathrooms that don't offer too much privacy. Hotel highlights include a nice pool, a modern Cantonese restaurant by acclaimed Chef Yong Bing Ngen, and a small fitness center. The location is also walking distance to nightlife and the night markets.

The Nostalgia Hotel is a 50-room Singapore boutique located in a historic neighborhood. Though the location isn't within walking distance of many attractions, public transportation is nearby. Rooms are tiny, but appealing despite their size: They're decorated in red and gold, and feature flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and free Wi-Fi. Hotel highlights include a rooftop pool with space to lounge, an outdoor bistro, and a bar. This clean and stylish hotel is a good pick for people who don't mind a location outside of bustling Chinatown.