Hotel
Marina Bay Sands
Moshe Safdie-designed integrated resort with 1,850 rooms across three towers, crowned by the SkyPark and its rooftop infinity pool 191 metres up.
Raffles Singapore
Singapore's grand colonial hotel, opened in 1887 by the Sarkies brothers, now an all-suite property with butler service and the birthplace of the Singapore Sling.
At a glance
- Type
- Heritage luxury hotel (all-suite)
- Area
- City Hall, Singapore
- Price
- $$$$ · Luxury
- Official site
- raffles.com
Good to know
- Butler service
- Long Bar
- Tiffin Room
Why we recommend it
Raffles Singapore opened in 1887 under the Sarkies brothers, Armenian hoteliers who also founded grand hotels elsewhere in Southeast Asia, and it was declared a national monument in 1987. With its white colonial facade, deep verandas, tropical courtyards and cast-iron fountain, it is one of the most famous hotels in Asia, and after a major restoration that was completed in 2019 it operates as an all-suite hotel.
There are 115 suites, ranging from courtyard and palm court suites to grand residences, and every guest is looked after by a personal butler, who can unpack, arrange restaurant bookings and help plan the day. The suites keep the colonial style, with high ceilings, polished timber floors, ceiling fans and separate living areas, while bathrooms and technology have been brought up to date. Guests have use of the pool, spa and fitness centre, and the hotel's quiet inner courtyards are a world away from the traffic outside.
Raffles is also a dining and drinking destination. The Long Bar, where the Singapore Sling was created in 1915, is the most visited, and the Tiffin Room, serving North Indian cuisine in a room dating from 1892, is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. The Writers Bar recalls the authors who stayed here, and the Raffles Arcade holds shops and further restaurants. Most of these are open to non-residents, so a drink or afternoon tea is an easy way to see the building if you are staying elsewhere.
The hotel suits couples on a special trip, honeymooners and travellers who value history and personal service over contemporary design. Rates are among the highest in the city. Book well ahead for festive periods and the Formula 1 race weekend, when demand peaks, and ask about suite categories when booking, as size and outlook vary.
The location is excellent. Raffles stands at 1 Beach Road, within walking distance of the Civic District, Marina Bay, Bugis and Kampong Gelam, and City Hall and Esplanade MRT stations are both close by. Chijmes, the National Gallery and the waterfront Esplanade are a few minutes' walk away, and Changi Airport is around 20 to 30 minutes by taxi, depending on traffic.
Raffles Singapore FAQs
Was the Singapore Sling invented at Raffles?
Yes, it was created at the hotel's Long Bar in 1915.
How many suites does Raffles have?
The hotel has 115 suites.
Does every guest have a butler?
Yes, butler service is provided to all guests.
Can non-guests visit?
Yes, the Long Bar, Tiffin Room, Writers Bar and Raffles Arcade are open to visitors.
When did Raffles open?
In 1887; it was declared a national monument in 1987 and reopened after restoration in 2019.
Which MRT stations are nearest?
City Hall and Esplanade stations are both close by.
How do I contact the hotel?
Call +65 6337 1886 or email [email protected].
When should I book early?
For festive periods and the Formula 1 race weekend, when demand is highest.