Hotels in Geylang

Exploring Geylang

Geylang is one of Singapore’s most historic, and daresay controversial, neighbourhoods. Located to the northeast of downtown Singapore, this vivacious area is famous for two main features – red-light brothels and historic shophouses. Unlike other parts of Singapore, Geylang has shied away from gentrification, allowing tourists to step back in time with its distinct Malay ambience.

There is an incredible nightlife found along Geylang Road, including pubs and karaoke bars. Of course, the adult-only venues, both legitimate and discreet, also play a major role in the vibrancy of Geylang’s night culture. There are numerous hotels in the area, most of which are found along Geylang Road or its laneways. This fascinating neighbourhood sits on the East West Line of the Singapore MRT, so getting here and away is relatively simple and inexpensive.

Sights nearby

A handful of impressive and alluring landmarks are found inside and around Geylang. Many of these can be effortlessly reached from any of the hotels along and near Geylang Road.

- Singapore National Stadium

The original Singapore National Stadium, which was built in 1966 using an open-air design, has been demolished to make way for a brand new sporting complex and stadium, which is planned to hold 55,000 spectators. The new stadium is on the same site as the old complex, and will hold the world’s largest dome-roof once completed. In fact, the domed-roof is one of the most alluring features of the stadium as it also doubles as a massive projector screen. Though it is only a two-star hotel, Hotel 81 Hollywood is just 700 metres from the stadium.

- Geylang Serai New Market

Known as one of the iconic landmarks for the Singaporean Malay community, the new and improved Geylang Serai Market is not to be missed. It boasts a two-level wet market that sells a huge range of products, including fish, spices and exotic produce. The top floor is home to a wondrous food centre, with a host of different traditional menus on display. The market is situated within a heritage-drenched kampong house, which entices visitors with its charm.

- Kallang Station

Located at the westernmost edge of Geylang, Kallang Station is an MRT stop on the East West Line. It is nestled close to Kallang Riverside Park and Singapore’s National Stadium, so is regularly busy when events are being held here. This elevated station was first opened in 1989, and boasts two tracks. The first train to arrive at Kallang Station is at 6:07, while the last train departs at 00:18.

Eating and drinking and shopping nearby

Geylang has a surprisingly vibrant night life, although it is not always on the ‘clean’ side. There are literally hundreds of brothels operating within the neighbourhood, which can be identified by their bright red street numbers which hang out front. Many are legalised, but some are not. The historic shophouses that line many of the main roads and streets throughout Geylang have predominantly transformed into impressive restaurants. Some of these are traditional Malay establishments, and are particularly famous across Singapore. If tourists stay at nearby hotels like Hotel 81 Tristar, these dining venues are only a short distance away. For shopping, no site in Geylang beats the Serai New Market.

Public transport

Geylang can be reached via several public transport options, but the most convenient would be the MRT network. There are a number of stations situated along or close to Geylang Road, including Kallang, Mountbatten, Dakota and Aljunied stations. These transport hubs all rest upon the East West Line, which links the neighbourhood to downtown Singapore. In nearby Kallang, the Geylang Lorong 1 Bus Terminal can be found.