The Capitol Kempinski Hotel

With 157 rooms, the understated and sophisticated Capitol Kempinski Hotel is the prime address for visitors to Singapore who are looking for high-touch service and amenities and a luxurious atmosphere.

• The tucked-away location on a small side street in downtown Singapore
• The fitness center, spa and small outdoor pool
• The sprawling breakfast buffet, which has Singaporean specialties as well as Western dishes like waffles, omelets, crepes and more

Housed in two historic buildings in Singapore’s downtown Civic District, the Capitol Kempinski Hotel swung open its doors in 2018 after years of meticulous renovations. The wait was worth it, as the property is one of the city’s chicest offerings, with a boutique hotel atmosphere, quiet and sophisticated style and ample pampering amenities. The hotel is part of the Capitol Singapore, an urban development center that is home to the iconic Capitol Theatre and restaurants, shops and more, but it is accessed via a tiny side street that makes it almost hard to find. This is, however, a good thing; the property offers a central location in bustling downtown but it feels more like a hidden home away from home.

Taking cues from the building’s historic architecture, the Kempinski has elements of Art Deco and Victorian design but a thoroughly updated feel. The gleaming lobby has travertine limestone columns and Italian marble floors, and the 157 rooms and suites (almost all of which are slightly different) have a color palette of light creams and lots of wooden accents. Mega-high ceilings add to the luxurious vibe of the rooms, all of which have marble showers, free-standing bathtubs and Ferragamo bath products.

Amenity-wise, the Kempinski has everything one could desire. A decent-sized gym with state-of-the-art equipment, a small, outdoor saltwater pool with lounge chairs and a spa that offers traditional and Asian treatments. The culinary program is run by Michelin-starred chef, who oversees the several F&B outlets on-property. The main restaurant serves international cuisine and a lovely afternoon tea.

Families and couples who want a discreet, five-star hotel (as opposed to Singapore’s flashy high-rises like the Marina Bay Sands) with lots of amenities and a great location in the city center.