Mercure ICON Chinatown Singapore Review – Brutally Honest Stay at the Largest Mercure Hotel in the World

ABBEY: Another staycation, yay! This time, we checked in at Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre, and it turned out to be a great choice for a quick city getaway.

We were able to get our room quickly, and to our delight, it came with a lovely view of Chinatown. The bed leaned on the firmer side, which was surprisingly comfortable, and the pillows were soft and cozy. It is perfect for a restful night’s sleep. Overall, the room was clean and well-maintained. The only drawback was a slight odor from the bathroom drain; not overly unpleasant, but noticeable enough to mention. We shared this feedback with the hotel, so hopefully, it gets addressed for future guests.

For food and coffee, ICON LINK at Basement 2 is super convenient. We enjoyed our coffee fix at Tomoro Coffee and even grabbed a quick pizza dinner from Domino’s. Another highlight? The hotel’s close proximity to Chinatown Complex, where we savored delicious dim sum and a comforting plate of sweet and sour pork rice.

Mercure ICON Chinatown Singapore Review –  Largest Mercure Hotel in the World

WILL: In the never-ending stretch of hostels and boutique hotels in Singapore’s Chinatown, one building stands tall and gleaming — Mercure ICON. With over 900 rooms, this isn’t just any Mercure — it’s the largest Mercure ICON in the world.

So… why did Abbey and I check in here? Simple. We fell for the Red Hot Deal from All Accor. Yes, FOMO got us this time.

The Room is Small, but not claustrophobic. You can still open two 20-inch luggage inside but will be  blocking the walkway. But here’s my honest take — the bed was not my friend. This is the first hotel bed that actually gave me a backache. My planned “sleepcation” quickly turned into a “tossing-and-turning” marathon.

As for the bathroom — small, as expected from the room size. But the real works they need to do is the soundproofing. I could clearly hear people talking in the hallway, which made me wish they invested more in thicker walls. 

The location is where Mercure ICON wins. Step outside and you’re minutes away from Chinatown, Clarke Quay, and even Singapore’s CBD. Plus, food is everywhere — hawker stalls, cafes, and restaurants in every direction.

My Verdict – Would I Recommend It?

•For tourists: If you’re out exploring all day and only crash in the room at night — yes, it’s a solid choice.

•For locals on a staycation: You can try it, but don’t expect a plush, spa-like escape.

•For light sleepers or  hard bed sensitive: Maybe skip — your back and ears might thank you.

Mercure ICON Chinatown central, and convenient — but not exactly cozy.

***

Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre Hotel

(W)https://www.mercure-icon-singapore-city-centre.com/ 

(A)8 Club Street, Singapore , 069472

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12 Indoor Activities in Singapore for Tourists | Rainy Day Itinerary Guide

Don’t let a rainy day in Singapore ruin your travel plans.

This city has no shortage of indoor attractions — and some are even better enjoyed with the sound of rain in the background. Whether you’re a first-time tourist, a return visitor, or an expat looking to explore deeper, this guide has got you covered (literally!).

Here are 12 indoor activities in Singapore to try when the skies turn gray.

12 Indoor Activities in Singapore for Tourists | Rainy Day Itinerary Guide

1. Explore Science at ArtScience Museum and Science Centre Singapore

Start your day with interactive exhibits and jaw-dropping installations.

At ArtScience Museum, dive into a futuristic world of light, motion, and technology — all inside Marina Bay Sands. Or head west to Science Centre Singapore, where kids and adults alike can learn Science and Singapore History while having fun.

Perfect for: Families, couples, solo travelers

Locations: Marina Bay Sands | Jurong

2. Shop, Eat, and Relax at Singapore’s Iconic Malls

Singapore’s malls are more than just shopping centers — they’re climate-controlled worlds of food, fashion, art, and entertainment.

Must-Visit Malls:

•The Shoppes: Luxury brands and sampan boat rides

•Jewel Changi: Indoor waterfall, sky nets, and rainforest trails

•Geneo Mall: Eco-friendly shopping with a unique Singapore twist

Rainy Day Tip: Many malls are MRT-connected via underground walkways!

3. Climb, Slide, and Power Up at Aqua Adventure (HomeTeamNS Bedok)

An indoor water playground and obstacle course, Aqua Adventure is perfect for high-energy travelers. With vertical drops, climbing nets, and slides, this is a hidden gem — rain or shine.

Great for: Kids, teens, active adults

Location: Bedok Reservoir

Price: 

4. Discover Sentosa’s Indoor Fun: Oceanarium, iFly, Scentopia & Weave Mall

Even on rainy days, Sentosa Island stays exciting. 

Skip the beach and explore:

•Singapore Oceanarium – A spectacular marine life experience

•iFly Singapore – Indoor skydiving just steps from the beach

•Weave Mall – Home to creative retail and immersive attractions

Pro Tip: Take the Sentosa Express from VivoCity to stay dry!

5. Go on a Luxury Café Hop: Prada, Audemars Piguet, Pierre Hermé

Rainy afternoons are perfect for luxury indulgence.

Skip the typical cafés and explore designer-label coffee spots that blend fashion, flavor, and flair.

Where to Go:

•Prada Caffè – The newest aesthetic coffee spot in town

•Audemars Piguet House – A café hidden in a luxury watch boutique

•Pierre Hermé  – Parisian macarons with a view

Best for: Couples, solo journaling, aesthetic content

6. Get Lost in Singapore’s Museums

Rainy weather is perfect for diving into art, culture, and history.

Top Picks:

•National Gallery Singapore – The region’s best modern art

•National Museum of Singapore – Travel through time with immersive exhibits

•Navy Museum – A quiet and interactive maritime experience

Tip: Many museums offer self-guided audio tours — bring earphones!

Price: 

7. Book a Spa or TCM Massage Session

Unwind while the rain falls outside. Singapore has world-class spas and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) wellness centers that offer everything from foot massages to herbal therapies.

Try:

•Natureland (Marina Bay Sands) – Great foot reflexology

•G.Spa – 24/7 spa with buffet

•Eu Yan Sang TCM – Herbal therapy, cupping, and acupuncture

Ideal for: Rainy nights or post-flight recovery

8. Watch a Movie in Premium Comfort

Turn your rainy afternoon into a cinematic escape.

Singapore’s Gold Class and Platinum Suites offer reclining seats, gourmet menus, and cozy blankets.

Where to Go:

•GV Gold Class (Suntec & VivoCity)

•Cathay Cineplex Platinum Suites

Pro Tip: Book online and pre-order your food!

9. Try Escape Rooms and Puzzle Experiences

Challenge your mind and bond with your travel buddies in one of Singapore’s many escape rooms.

Top-Rated:

•Xcape SG (Bugis) – Realistic sets and game masters

•Trapped SG – Mix of scary and funny experiences

Perfect for: Friends, couples, team-building

10. Discover Hands-On Workshops: Pottery, Scent-Making & More

Make something meaningful during your visit. Rainy days are the best excuse to slow down and create.

Try:

•Pottery classes at Goodman Arts Centre

•Perfume workshops at Maison 21G or Scentopia

Bonus: You’ll leave with a handmade souvenir.

11. Cozy Up at a Library With a View

Singapore’s libraries are peaceful and picturesque — perfect for introspective travelers or remote workers.

Best Spots:

•library@Orchard – Minimalist design and curated lifestyle books

•library@HarbourFront – Spacious and serene

12. Boost Your Voice in a Singapore Karaoke Room

End your rainy day on a high note — literally.

Singapore’s karaoke lounges are modern, clean, and perfect for private fun with your favorite playlist.

Where to Go:

•Teo Heng KTV – Budget-friendly with BYO snacks

•HaveFun KTV – Stylish themes and group-friendly rooms

•Cash Studio – Strong Japanese and Tagalog selection

Mood: Rain outside, belting inside = serotonin boost

Final Thoughts: Don’t Cancel Plans — Just Pivot Indoors

A rainy day in Singapore isn’t the end of your plans — it’s a chance to explore a different side of the city. From cultural museums to cozy cafés, indoor theme parks to luxe spas, there’s always something exciting (and dry!) to do.

So the next time it pours, take it as a sign: slow down, explore differently, and let the rain be part of the memory.

Enjoy life! 

SAVE MONEY ON YOUR TRAVEL HERE!!!

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.

KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.

GetYourGuide: Don't just visit your destination — experience it. Book your activities with GetYourGuide!