singapore places to visit for shopping

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• Shopping In Singapore: 19 Places For Buying The Best Handbags, Electronics & More

26 Oct 2021

Shopping in Singapore is one of the best experiences to have in the country, and there is no denying that. Being one of the world’s best destinations for buying almost everything at great prices, the country is a true paradise for every Shopaholic. And you’re absolutely in luck if you’re one!

Singapore is one of the best places to shop in owing to the variety it offers. From appliances to electronics, from clothes to shoes; Singapore is one of the best places to buy items at affordable prices. The markets are touted as one of the best places for Singapore shopping .

While you can shop anything from electronics to clothes, here are the top places to visit for buying the best of everything that is out there in the world!

19 Best Places For Shopping In Singapore

If you are a shopaholic who is traveling to Singapore, rush to these places to have the best shopping experience in Singapore. This Singapore shopping guide will come in handy for you. Get all of your answers to where to shop in Singapore  right here! 

• Orchard Road – Vibrant Shopping
• Marina Bay – Shopping Spree Exemplified
• Chinatown – Steal Prices
• Little India – Sari, Spice, And Everything Nice
• VivoCity – Gallery For Lifestyle
• Haji Lane – Boutiques Street
• Clarke Quay – Shopping For The Fashionistas
•   IMM – Home And Clothing
• Bugis Street – Flea Market
• Holland Village – One Stop Shop
• City Plaza – Fine Shopping Experience
• Lucky Plaza – Shopping Experience Redefined
• Scape Underground – Centre For Youth
• Anchorpoint Shopping Centre – Affordable Shopping
• Tanglin Mall Bazaar – Vintage Accessories And Retro Clothing
• Mustafa Centre – Lowest Prices Ever
• Far East Plaza – All The Fashion Trends
• Pasarbella – Best Farmer’s Market
• The Editor’s Market – Brands On A Budget

1. Orchard Road – Vibrant Shopping

Surrounded by local and international department stores, boutiques, and mega malls on both the ends, Orchard Road is the most famous spot for best shopping in Singapore . From budget apparel and electronics to high-end fashion labels and housewares, you can find everything under one roof. The alfresco spots along the road, and the buskers and performing artists on the sidewalks add on to the vibrancy of this place, making it a unique experience for you.

Timings: Most of the stores and markets open from 9 or 10 AM, and close by 10 PM. But on every Saturday, almost all the shops extend the Singapore shopping hours till 11 PM. What To Buy:

• Electronics

Popular Malls On Orchard Road:

• ION Orchard
• Paragon Shopping Centre
• Orchard Central
• Far East Plaza
• Ngee Ann City

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2. Marina Bay – Shopping Spree Exemplified

Known for being the most glorious attraction, the area of Marina Bay is home to a cluster of famous malls in Singapore and is tagged as one of the best places for shopping in Singapore . All of these stores here are great places for both buying high-end brands and indulging in offbeat Singapore shopping. From local brands to international ones which you may have never heard of, everything can be spotted here at a price you might not have to think about twice.

Timings: While most malls stay open from 10 AM to 10 PM, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands stay open till 11 PM every day, and till 11:30 PM on Friday and Saturday. What To Buy:

Popular Malls In Marina Bay:

• Raffles City
• The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

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3. Chinatown – Steal Prices

This market area is one of the most fascinating and best shopping places in Singapore for those on a budget. It is certainly a great place to buy spices, souvenirs, and clothes since all the shops across the road sell it at throwaway prices. Also, you can heartily bargain here until you feel satisfied with your buy!

Timings: While some stores stay open till 6 PM, some close late in the night by 11 PM. What To Buy:

• Satin Chinese style robes

Popular Stores In Chinatown:

• Ann Siang Road
• Books Actually
• Chinatown Point & Singapore Handicraft Center

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4. Little India – Sari, Spice, And Everything Nice

The most colourful and vibrant place for shopping in Singapore , Little India is a haven for every tourist looking to shop his or her heart out. The easy connectivity of the lanes makes shopping and walking around a cakewalk. From spices and rich sari fabrics to flower garlands, jewellery, and silverware, you can find anything here!

Timings: While the Mustafa Centre stays open for 24 hours, the other shops mostly remain open till 10 PM What To Buy: 

• Saree Fabrics

Popular Places In Little India:

• Mustafa Centre
• Serangoon Road and Side Street Shops
• Little India Arcade

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5. VivoCity – Gallery For Lifestyle

Situated on the HarbourFront and renowned as the ultimate shopping, entertainment, and lifestyle destination, this is one of the largest shopping malls in Singapore . With a store of every brand that you can think of, this place is undoubtedly a paradise for all the Shopaholics. And when you need a short break, there is a sky park and amphitheater on the top floor from where you can enjoy the gorgeous views of Sentosa and catch a breath or two.

Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM every day What To Buy:

• Stylish clothes
• Elegant homewares
• Accessories

Location: 1 HarbourFront Walk, Singapore 09858

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6. Haji Lane – Boutiques Street

For an extraordinary experience of best street shopping places in Singapore , the famous narrow street of Haji Lane is the perfect place to be. The cute vintage stores and boutiques in this Arab Quarter offer an interesting mix of clothes, accessories, and vintage cameras. From quirky designs to unusual & bright colours, you will spot everything here. Needless to say, it’s the best place in the country to shop the most unique things. Shopping here also happens to be one of the romantic things to do in Singapore . 

Timings: Most of the stores in Haji Lane open around 12 PM and close by 8 PM What To Buy:

Popular Places In Haji Lane:

• Fabulous Fads

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7. Clarke Quay – Shopping For The Fashionistas

Image Source Apart from the fancy waterfront restaurants, there are also a great range of boutique stores, fashion outlets, and malls along this breathtaking quay. Being a home to high-end brands from across the world, this is the best place to splurge on shopping.

Timings: Most of the stores stay open from 10 AM to 10 PM What To Buy:

Popular Places In Clarke Quay:

• Central Clarke Quay
• Clarke Quay
• Riverside Point
• Great World City

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8. IMM – Home And Clothing

Image Source

One of the largest outlet shopping malls in Singapore , IMM in Jurong is a must-visit for every Shopaholic. With over 80 outlet stores, you can easily find local brands like Charles & Keith, and big international labels like COACH, DKNY, and Sacoor here. Apart from the big branded stores, there are also a number of home furnishing shops that offer every essential for your interior designing needs.

Timings: Open from 10 AM to 10 PM What To Buy:

• Home furnishing
• Branded clothes

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9. Bugis Street – Flea Market

Situated between Little India in the north and Marina Bay in the south, the Bugis Street Market is one of the top shopping places in Singapore . It is known for being the cheapest market in the country for buying souvenirs, accessories, clothes, electronics, houseware, and cosmetics. With over 800 stalls here, you can spend hours browsing through the innovative collection, and exploring eateries for a fun and friendly shopping experience.

Timings: Open from 11 AM to 10 PM every day What To Buy:

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10. Holland Village – One Stop Shop

If you’re wondering ‘what to shop in Singapore’ , Holland Village is the ideal place to visit. Made-in-Asia wearables, trinkets, Crocs footwear, arts & crafts, carpets, antiques, home furnishings, and the list of things you can buy here is endless.

Timings: Open from 10:30 AM to 9 PM every day What To Buy:

• Crocs Footwear

Popular Stores In Holland Village:

• Lim’s Arts & Living

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11. City Plaza – Fine Shopping Experience

One of the oldest malls in Singapore, there are a number of things to buy for tourists. It is a perfect place for budget shopping and you can spend hours in shopping. There are five different floors in the plaza catering to clothing, accessories, makeup, gadgets etc. When you get tired of shopping, you can just take a break and have delicious food at the restaurants and eateries at the food court.

Timings: 09.30 am to 10.00 pm What To Buy:

Popular Stores In City Plaza:

• Whitefiction
• PEONY Collection
• Power Photo Store

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12. Lucky Plaza – Shopping Experience Redefined

The Lucky Plaza is a reminder of what shopping centres used to be in Singapore and an answer to is Singapore good for shopping . It is housed in a 20 year old building and is one of the most popular places for shopping in Singapore amongst tourists, and locals. You can buy good quality products at the cheapest of prices. You can buy sunglasses, watches, and souvenirs at this shopping plaza. Visiting this affordable place for shopping in Singapore will take you for a stroll in the history of Singapore.

Timings: 10.00 am to 10.00 pm What To Buy:

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13. Scape Underground – Centre For Youth

Scape Underground is famous as one of the most affordable places to shop in Singapore. This shopping centre is a part of SCAPE – a centre for upliftment of youth. The aim of this centre is to promote talent. Everything available here is in a budget price range, and retailers here are youth of Singapore.

Timings: 09.00 am to 09.00 pm What To Buy:

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14. Anchorpoint Shopping Centre – Affordable Shopping

Anchorpoint shopping centre – famous shopping places in Singapore that is known for selling branded luxury items at a price that is budget friendly. Also, at the weekly sales you can get these items at throw-away prices. The place is also a ‘centre’ for clinics, supermarkets, launderette, and food court. If you are looking for the best places to shop in Singapore, Anchorpoint should not be missed.

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15. Tanglin Mall Bazaar – Vintage Accessories And Retro Clothing

What sets Tanglin Mall Bazaar apart are the items that you can buy here. It sells vintage CDs, second-hand vinyls, retro-styled clothes, and much more such items. Being a quirky store, it is usually not crowded and you can easily shop around at Tanglin Bazaar – one of the best places to shop in Singapore.  The food court here is also one of the most affordable eateries.

Timings: 10.00 am to 09.00 pm What To Buy:

• Vintage CDs
• Retro-styles clothes

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16. Mustafa Centre – Lowest Prices Ever

One of the best places to go when seeking cheap shopping in Singapore , Mustafa Centre is a must-try. The major highlight of this centre is actually the rates that one gets the products at. Retailers of this centre buys the products in bulk so that they don’t have to pay a higher price, further decreasing the amount that falls on the final consumer of that commodity. Also, the best part about this? The Centre is open 24 hours, 7 days a week. So, if you have some late night urge to go on a spree, you know where to head without giving it a second thought!

Timings: Open 24 hours What To Buy:

Location: 145 Syed Alwi Road, Mustafa Centre, Singapore

17. Far East Plaza – All The Fashion Trends

If you are a fashion aficionado and like to go in line with all the trends but do not feel like spending too much on it, Far East Plaza happens to be your answer to all the where to shop in Singapore . This Plaza is famed for being home to the retail shops that sell the most trendy footwear, accessories, and apparel to visitors. Right from the Hong-Kong styles and street smart Korean attires to some retro outfits, you can find anything and everything here. Although, do not expect to find any of the fancy brands here.

Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM What To Buy:

• Beauty Products
• Trendy Outfits

Location: 14 Scotts Road, Far East Plaza, Singapore

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18. Pasarbella – Best Farmer’s Market

If you wish to witness what a typical farmer’s market looks like, head to Pasarbella. One of the best shopping areas in Singapore if you are looking to spend money on some delectable food items at the wholesome rates, do pay a visit to Pasarbella. This all-inclusive sea market has plenty to offer right from an extensive variety of meat and dairy to various beers and all the fresh produce.

Timings: 10 AM to 9 PM What To Buy:

• Fresh Produce
• Variety of meat

Location: 01-455-461 North Wing, Suntec City, 3 Temasek Blvd, Singapore 038983

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19. The Editor’s Market – Brands On A Budget

A perfect spot to indulge in some binge shopping or retail therapy, The Editor’s Market offers one of the best shopping in Singapore . The Market follows the step pricing policy which means that the more products one purchases, the cheaper the amount they’ll have to pay. Editor’s Market is a multi-brand outlet that offers a mix of top-selling international street labels to the fashion items from the vintage era.

Timings: 10:30 AM to 10 PM What To Buy:

• Woman Clothing
• Home Fragrances
• Kitchenware

Location: 313 Orchard Road #03-01 to 08, 313@Somerset, Singapore

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Tips For Shopping In Singapore

Here are a few Singapore shopping tips  that will definitely come handy. Take a look. 

• If you’re planning to visit Singapore solely with the aim of shopping, try and schedule your trip between May to July during the Great Singapore Sale. This is the best time for shopping in Singapore as the prices are greatly discounted.
• For budget shopping, hop to the outlet malls like IMM since they offer year-round discounts on all types of brands.
• Choose a shopping place that has a large number of stores and malls so that it’s easier to buy everything you desire from one area.
• Electronics / Gadgets and branded bags are two of the best things to to shop in Singapore . Don’t miss out a chance to haul these if you’re gadget geek or bag lover.
• Look out for shops that have ‘GST Refund’ or ‘Tax Free Shopping’ signs.
• Don’t forget to check and confirm with the store if your purchase has an international warranty.
• Singapore is one of the world’s best shopping destinations, so there’s a lot in store that could wow you. Don’t forget to take a spare bag with you.
• Do ask for receipts for everything you buy and keep them safe until your shopping bags are home safe.

Further Read: 27 Surreal Places To Take Short Trips From Singapore

And irrespective of when you plan your trip to Singapore , make sure you have your shopping list prepared in advance, because shopping in Singapore is one of the best shopping experiences you will ever have!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shopping in Singapore

Which is the best market for shopping in Singapore?

The best market for shopping in Singapore is Orchard Road with innumerable malls and outlets on both sides of the street. A few famous places to shop are ION Orchard, Orchard Central Mall, and more.

What should an Indian buy from Singapore?

Watches, high-end bags, electronics, and clothes are some of the things that are available at a great discount in Singapore and are absolutely worth buying.

Which is the best shopping mall in Singapore?

While the country is a hub of great luxury malls, the best one is The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. With brands like Armani, Burberry, Chanel, Dior, Hermes, Versace, Prada, Ralph Lauren, and more under one roof, this mall is a great place to shop one’s heart out.

Is shopping at Changi Airport cheaper?

Yes. Changi Airport shops have prices that are cheaper than a lot of other places in town. In the case of beauty products, many items are up to 40 percent cheaper than those in the city.

Are electronics cheaper in Singapore?

Yes. Electronics prices are slightly cheaper in Singapore.

Is gold cheaper in Singapore?

Buying gold in Singapore can be very much cheaper as compared to other countries, as it has removed all sales taxes on investment-grade precious metals like gold and silver bullion

Where can I buy cheap souvenirs in Singapore?

The 5 Best Places to Buy Cheap Souvenirs in Singapore are: 1. Mustafa Centre – Address: 145 Syed Alwi Road, Singapore 2. Chinatown- Address: Chinatown, Singapore 3. Bugis Street- Address: 3 New Bugis Street, Singapore 4. Lucky Plaza- Address: 304 Orchard Road, Singapore 5. Peninsula Plaza- Address: 111 North Bridge Road, Singapore

Which is the best flea market in Singapore?

Some of the best places to go street shopping in the flea markets in Singapore are: 1. Bugis Street Market 2. Chinatown Street Market 3. Katong Square Lifestyle and Vintage Market 4. Little India Arcade

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The best shopping malls in Singapore

In a town where mall culture is king, here are the shopping centres with exciting finds

Shopping is one of Singapore's national pastimes and we've all spent time walking from one shopping mall to another similar air-conditioned haven, sometimes to chase the best deals and also to escape the heat. In a town where mall culture is strong, it can get a little hectic when it comes to navigating shops at different malls. Besides, do you know which mall is the best for camping gear,  shopping for the kids  or stocking up on groceries ? We do. Here we round up the best shopping malls and more, all for your retail therapy. Time to shop hard. 

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Palais Renaissance

• Shopping centres

In the quieter section of the Orchard shopping district, a mall has undergone something of a renaissance. And no surprises – that's Palais Renaissance. New and exciting dining options have moved in: whet your appetite for seafood at Estuary (#B1-04/05), indulge in Japanese alcoholic beverages at Table 33 (#B1-11), and go for wine and sake pairings at Ishinomaki Dégustation (#B1-01). For some proper self-care, get a thorough workout at Mutiny (#01-08/09) or facial at HydraFacial (#03-06/07/08/09). Palais Renaissance has also pulled in LuxeHouze (#02-03) – the perfect place to some timeless watches for yourself or a loved one. 

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

Won the jackpot? Hit this three-storey luxury mall for high-end retail brands like Chanel, Fendi, Gucci, Miu Miu, Yves Saint Laurent, Hermès and more. When your feet start to ache, take a break with a sampan ride down a man-made canal. If you're feeling peckish, check out celebrity chef restaurants on the first and first basement levels, or tuck into Asian food – hawker-style – at Rasapura Masters food court on the canal level.

Jewel Changi Airport

Entertain yourself throughout the night at the latest lifestyle concept, Jewel Changi Airport. This majestic dome is home to over 280 dining and retail outlets, with some open around the clock – think dining at ungodly hours at American fast-food chain A&W or food court Five Spice, or killing a couple of hours with a movie at Shaw Theatres. You can also catch the hourly light and sound show at the HSBC Rain Vortex, the mall’s 40-metre-tall indoor waterfall, from 7.30pm to midnight.

ION Orchard

It claims to be the ‘centre of gravity’ in the Singapore retail scene – and with jaw-dropping frontage, cutting-edge design, and more than 300 stores, it makes a good case. Apart from the obvious reason for coming here – shopping – be sure to check out the extra bells and whistles. There’s ION Sky, a double-storey observation deck on the top two floors, an art gallery that boasts 4000-square-foot of art space, as well as restaurants and shops that  houses designer brands such as Cartier, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Giorgio Armani, Louis Vuitton, and Prada, as well as the dependable staples from Topshop/Topman, Uniqlo and Zara.

Formerly known as Funan DigitaLife Mall, the newly revamped mall starts a new chapter with more than 190 brands clustered around the themes of tech, craft, play, fit, chic and taste. Keeping it modern, industrial-chic is the aesthetic of the mall with many vibrant corners and spaces within the mall like the Tree of Life, the Kinetic Wall, a seven-storey green wall and even an urban farm operated by Edible Garden City on the rooftop. On top of retail stores and eateries, Golden Village opens its 14th multiplex at Funan offering a more premium cinema experience, and boutique gym TFX is where you can go for an intense workout session before taking a dip in the pool.  

Plaza Singapura

Plaza Singapura's recent makeover has been given a new lease of life with the addition of stores like Muji, Sephora, Kiehl's and Uniqlo, along with popular Asian restaurants like Tim Ho Wan, PappaRich and Bangkok Jam, located at its new wing. With over 320 stores and services under its roof, previous anchor tenants such as Best Denki, Spotlight, Marks & Spencer and Yamaha still remain. For experiential shopping, head to multi-label concept store NomadX, where some of your favourite stores like Taobao come to life.  

Ngee Ann City

This massive red granite building with two towers is the lifeblood of Orchard Road, drawing throngs of locals and tourists. It’s also known as Takashimaya Shopping Centre (aka Taka) after anchor tenant Takashimaya department store. It contains more than 130 shops, including Japanese bookstore Kinokuniya, perfumers Diptyque, makeup megastore Sephora, Aesop, Guess, Shanghai Tang and more. The hungry ones can satisfy their hunger at eateries like Crystal Jade Palace, Takashimaya Food Hall, Bali Thai and Coca. 

• Harbourfront

You may need a map to navigate your way around VivoCity, but one thing’s for sure: this sprawling mall has everything under one roof. After shopping at the likes of Kiehl's, Aesop, H&M, Tangs and more, cool down at the rooftop mini water playground. Afterwards, treat yourself to a blockbuster at Golden Village’s Gold Class, or calm those hunger pangs with its extensive directory of eateries, including the city's latest Shake Shack addition.

Paya Lebar Quarter

Paya Lebar Quarter is the latest to join in the cluster of retail buildings, including Paya Lebar Square and SingPost Centre, surrounding Paya Lebar MRT station. You can expect the usual suspects like Uniqlo, Cotton On, Innisfree, Shaw Theatres, Popular Bookstore, Challenger, and more as tenants. There is also Haidilao Hot Pot, Wine Connection, TungLok Seafood, Japanese rice sandwich joint Hayai, and new The Privé Group concept Lucky Bird for food options.

City Square Mall

In need of some retail therapy? Head on to the city's first eco-mall, boasting nine floors of shopping, entertainment and dining options for the whole family. Sports lovers can run amok at Decathlon's second brick-and-mortar store in Singapore, a one-stop-shop for all your outdoorsy needs; Home's Harmony, Linen Gallery, V.Hive, Window Story and more are there for your home decorating needs; and of course, not forgetting Don Don Donki with a wider selection of Japanese cuisine like its Japanese croquette, Omu-soba, and the sweet potato. 

The Star Vista

• Buona Vista

Not just a mall, this architectural wonder also houses a Civic and Cultural Zone with a 5,000-seat auditorium called The Star Theatre that hosts performances, concerts and more within the upper levels. Below this lies a plethora of restaurants and shops, including lifestyle boutique Komme and Japanese supermarket J-Mart. If you're stocking up on your music gear, check out Swee Lee's flagship store here. It boasts a wide range of musical instruments, accessories, DJ gear and more from well-known and familiar brands such as Fender, Gibson, Marshall and Native Instruments. Refuel at the Swee Lee Social Club before continuing your retail therapy sesh.

Century Square

• Things to do

First opened in 1995, Century Square has been given a fresh makeover, modernised with a new façade and new tenants calling it home. It houses six levels of retail, entertainment and F&B stores with open-concept dining areas, as well as family-friendly services and activity spaces such as larger nursing rooms, and a 24-hour gym. Another key feature is the first-of-its-kind virtual library on the fourth floor where users can download e-books to their mobile devices.

• Jurong East

Rivalling the malls along Orchard Road, JEM is the third largest suburban shopping centre in the city. It houses various stores from fashion and beauty to tech and homeware across six levels. With retail options like H&M, Uniqlo, Adidas, Muji and even Fairprice Xtra for last-minute grocery shopping, there’s no need to go anywhere else.

Northpoint City

Northpoint City is the largest mall in northern Singapore and the closest shopping centre to Yishun MRT. It has a diverse range of retail shops – even more after its recent revamp – and features more than 50 eateries plus a specialty food precinct called The Makan Town. Within the expansive space is also the Yishun Public Library, an education cluster, thematic shopping zones, and even a community club that’s located within the mall.

Kallang Wave Mall

The three-storey mall is named after the classic crowd gesture seen at football matches during Singapore’s footballing heydays. For the fashionable and sporty types, there's plenty to browse at stores like Hoop Factory, H&M (with an extensive collection of activewear), New Balance, Weston Corp, Runner's Edge and more. The mall also has a huge rock-climbing wall you can take on if you're feeling adventurous, or you could also keep occupied at snooker hall, Cue Guru. 

Juxtaposed beside old shopping centres like Tanjong Katong Complex and City Plaza are Paya Lebar's spankin' new malls including Paya Lebar Quarter and Kinex. Previously known as OneKM Shopping Mall, the community-centric Kinex prides itself as a fun destination for those leading (or kickstarting) an active, vibrant lifestyle. Unleash your inner Picasso at Tree Art, throw shapes at Distinct Creative Arts, update your wardrobe with pre-loved threads, discover your next favourite local brand at Excluniqueee, and snap a selfie at the staircase at the entrance that’s bathed in colourful graphics.

Design Orchard

Loud, proud and local, Design Orchard is less of a mall and more of a hub where you can buy all things local. It features a fresh selection of Singaporean designers and makers. With over 60 brands like Kydra, Onlewo, The Animal Project, Pinksalt Swim and more calling the two-and-a-half-storey space home under the tagline 'Where Local Brands Flourish', the homegrown labels are part of an incubation programme run by local multi-label retailer Naiise which will guide them through marketing, merchandising, and expansion strategies. Besides retail therapy, there is an incubation workspace exclusively for designers and a public amphitheatre that plays host to a range of dynamic events all year round.

A runner-up to Orchard Road’s world-famous shopping district can be said to be the Bugis precinct, indicated by the trio of Bugis Junction, Bugis Street and Bugis+, alongside the nearby hipster hideout of Haji Lane and Arab Street. But there’s a certain appeal that Bugis+ possesses that draws shoppers in droves. Could it be the myriad of shopping options such as a two-storey Uniqlo brunch, Sephora and home-grown fashion boutique Editor’s Market? Or the culinary highlights of Genki Sushi, Flaming Don, Bangkok Jam and many more? Don’t take our word for it, but quite possibly it is the mall’s range of entertainment centres, including a cinema, a karaoke outlet, a dart bar, and even a dog-petting café. 

Suntec City Mall

A sense of direction is required if you drop by Suntec City Mall, lest you get lost in its concrete labyrinth of play. We’re talking a mall that sprawls up to 82,500-square-metres, a massive space that the management has considerately divided into four zones for easier navigation. Apart from its boast of more than 380 retail outlets and over 100 dining options, the lifestyle haven also includes a movie theatre and fitness hubs. After hours – when nightlife resumes (fingers crossed!) – the clubs of Wan and Commas call on your party people to dance the night away.

313@Somerset

This eight-storey mall is a stone's throw away from the Somerset MRT station, and one not to be missed when doing your rounds of shopping in Orchard. 313@somerset houses mid-market fashion brands like Forever 21, Mango, and Zara, as well as local fashion labels The Editor's Market and Love, Bonito. For all your lifestyle needs, check out Muji and Smiggle. Feeling peckish? The top floor has a sprawling Food Republic food court or take your pick from eateries like Haidilao, Marche, Masizzim and more. 

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Malls for Shopping in Singapore

Escape the traditional shopping scene and discover The Shoppes, a luxurious shopping destination in Singapore that offers a diverse range of international and emerging brands. Step into a world of opulence as you explore renowned fashion labels like Gucci, Armani Exchange, Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Dolce and Gabbana, among others. Immerse yourself in the ultimate shopping experience, surrounded by high-end fashion and exquisite craftsmanship. Once you've satisfied your shopping cravings, treat yourself to a culinary journey at the dedicated floor hosting a collection of celebrity chef restaurants. Indulge in the finest dining experiences and savor exquisite flavors that complement the lavish atmosphere. If you're seeking an exclusive and indulgent shopping escapade where you can pamper yourself and indulge in luxury, The Shoppes is the perfect destination to satisfy your desires.

Also Checkout: Luxury Experiences at Marina Bay Sands

Nestled along the bustling Orchard Street, Paragon stands as an esteemed luxury mall in Singapore, boasting an impressive collection of approximately 200 stores across six levels. Renowned fashion houses such as Miu Miu, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Gucci grace its elegant premises, drawing fashion enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Notably, Paragon gained further acclaim as the esteemed Spanish brand, Loewe, chose this mall for its first-ever concept store in Singapore. Beyond its exceptional retail offerings, Paragon sets itself apart by hosting a variety of captivating events. Live Music Sessions, Craft sessions, and Screenings transform the mall into an engaging and vibrant destination, perfect for an enjoyable evening. Whether you seek the finest luxury brands, cultural experiences, or immersive events, Paragon stands as a captivating destination that caters to diverse interests and adds an extra touch of allure to Singapore's retail scene.

Immerse yourself in a world of luxury fashion at The Shopping Gallery in Hilton Singapore. Renowned for its premier fashion labels, this destination is a haven for those seeking the finest and most exclusive clothing. Experience the thrill of discovering the latest collections from top-tier brands, as they make their way straight from the runway to this prestigious location. Indulge in the allure of European craftsmanship as you explore an exquisite selection of watches and jewelry. From the sophisticated designs of Jil Sander to the timeless elegance of Giorgio Armani, Hilton Shopping Gallery offers a curated experience for fashion enthusiasts who appreciate the finest in luxury. Elevate your shopping journey to new heights as you immerse yourself in the world of high-end fashion and uncover the epitome of style and sophistication.

Nestled in the fashion hub of Singapore's Orchard Street, Mandarin Gallery stands out as the ultimate destination for an all-encompassing shopping experience. Unlike other malls, Mandarin Gallery offers everything you need under one roof, making it the perfect choice for those who prefer convenience. Here, you'll not only find renowned luxury brands but also discover the enchanting world of independent collectives, showcasing unique and eclectic works by talented artists.

From exquisite home decor and lifestyle stores to top-notch fashion labels and accessories, Mandarin Gallery boasts a curated selection of the finest brands. Whether you're seeking the latest fashion trends or one-of-a-kind pieces, you're sure to find something that suits your style. Popular brands such as Victoria's Secret, Actus Hause, Boss, and Bimba Y Lola grace the halls of this prestigious mall.

But Mandarin Gallery isn't just about shopping. It offers a plethora of additional amenities, including dining options, a salon and spa, and even a jamming studio. With everything you need in one place, it's the perfect destination for a seamless day of shopping, indulgence, and relaxation. Mandarin Gallery truly embodies the concept of a one-stop destination, catering to all your needs and ensuring an unforgettable shopping experience.

ION Orchard, situated at the bustling Orchard Street Junction, stands out with its dazzling facade that captivates both day and night. This luxury shopping mall offers a remarkable retail experience across its eight floors. With over 300 retail stores, including luxury fashion, jewelry, watches, sports, and lifestyle brands, ION Orchard caters to diverse tastes and preferences. Beyond shopping, the mall houses a variety of F&B outlets and entertainment options, ensuring a well-rounded experience for visitors. Renowned brands such as Dior, Armani Exchange, Estee Lauder, and Bottega Veneta grace the mall with their presence, offering exquisite choices for discerning shoppers. Additionally, ION Orchard hosts a range of events and promotions, adding excitement and vibrancy to the shopping experience. Whether you're seeking the latest fashion trends or immersive events, be sure to stay updated on ION Orchard's happenings when you visit Singapore.

Street Shopping and Unique Markets

Welcome to Haji Lane, the vibrant heart of Singapore's Kampong Glam district! Step into a world of eclectic charm and discover a shopping experience like no other. This narrow, picturesque lane is lined with a kaleidoscope of independent boutiques, trendy fashion stores, quirky vintage shops, and bohemian cafes. Haji Lane is a haven for fashionistas, art enthusiasts, and those seeking unique treasures. Immerse yourself in the colorful street art, feel the vibrant energy, and indulge in the latest fashion trends, handmade accessories, and one-of-a-kind vintage pieces. Explore the hidden gems, try on bold designs, and savor the artistic atmosphere that sets Haji Lane apart. Whether you're a fashion-forward trendsetter or an avid shopper looking for something extraordinary, Haji Lane promises an unforgettable retail adventure filled with style, creativity, and endless inspiration.

Step into the vibrant world of Chinatown , where hawker centers are just the beginning of the experience. Get ready to indulge in the art of street shopping and discover the best bargains in town. From aromatic spices to unique souvenirs and colorful items, Chinatown is a treasure trove of hidden gems. Don't miss out on the opportunity to bring home a satin Chinese-style robe, a perfect memento or a stylish addition to your wardrobe. The market's lively ambiance, adorned with vibrant lights, draws a bustling crowd of locals and tourists alike. After a satisfying shopping spree, treat yourself to the delectable delights offered at the food stalls, completing your Chinatown adventure on a delicious note. Explore the enchanting lanes, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, and uncover the true essence of Singapore's Chinatown through its exciting street shopping scene.

Step into a world of nostalgia at the Katong Square Lifestyle and Vintage Market in Singapore. This unique market is a haven for vintage enthusiasts and those with a love for all things retro. Explore a treasure trove of vintage watches, retro vinyl records, bags, jackets, and other antique and vintage goods that will transport you back in time.

But the Vintage Market is not just about shopping; it's an immersive experience where musicians and artists create a lively atmosphere while you browse through the stalls. Groove to the rhythm of live music and witness the creativity unfold before your eyes.

With multiple pop-ups throughout the year, the Vintage Market offers a chance to discover hidden gems and unique finds. Stay updated with the Retro Factory's Vintage Flea Market on Facebook to ensure you don't miss out on any upcoming events during your visit to Singapore. Embrace the charm of the past and indulge in a one-of-a-kind shopping experience at the Katong Square Lifestyle and Vintage Market.

Discover the shopper's paradise that is Bugis Street, a true haven for fashion enthusiasts. With its bustling atmosphere and over 600 stores and street vendors, this vibrant street offers an unparalleled selection of products in every color, style, and size imaginable. From trendy clothing to fashionable accessories, Bugis Street caters to all tastes and budgets. What makes it even more appealing is its pocket-friendly prices, where you can effortlessly find a casual, everyday outfit for under 10 dollars. Dive into the treasure trove of accessories and watches, as Bugis Street boasts a plethora of options to enhance your style. Whether you're hunting for the latest fashion trends or seeking unique bargains, Bugis Street is the ultimate destination for fashion-forward individuals looking to express their personal style without breaking the bank.

Other Areas for Shopping in Singapore

Embark on a shopping extravaganza like no other on the iconic Orchard Road, Singapore's premier shopping destination. Spanning a bustling stretch lined with local and international department stores, boutiques, and mega malls, Orchard Road offers an unparalleled shopping experience. Whether you're seeking budget-friendly apparel and electronics or indulging in high-end fashion labels and exquisite housewares, this retail paradise has it all. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you stroll past alfresco spots, serenaded by the captivating tunes of buskers and mesmerizing performances along the sidewalks. Orchard Road is a hub of style, variety, and excitement, ensuring that every shopping enthusiast's desires are met. Get ready to embark on a memorable retail journey that will leave you enthralled and spoilt for choice.

Indulge in a world of shopping delights along the stunning waterfront of the Clarke Quay . Beyond the allure of waterfront restaurants, you'll discover a treasure trove of boutique stores, fashion outlets, and upscale malls. This picturesque quay is a haven for discerning shoppers, offering a remarkable collection of high-end brands from around the globe. Whether you're in search of luxurious fashion, exquisite accessories, or the latest trends, this is the ultimate destination to satisfy your shopping desires. Immerse yourself in the chic ambiance as you browse through a plethora of retail offerings, from renowned designer labels to unique and stylish finds. Prepare to splurge and treat yourself to a shopping experience that epitomizes elegance and luxury at its finest.

Discover the charm of one of Singapore's oldest malls, where a world of treasures awaits. This shopping haven is a haven for budget shoppers and offers a plethora of options to delight tourists. Immerse yourself in a shopping spree that can stretch for hours as you explore the five diverse floors, each catering to a wide range of offerings including clothing, accessories, makeup, and gadgets. When fatigue sets in, take a well-deserved break and indulge your taste buds with delectable delights at the vibrant food court or one of the many enticing restaurants and eateries. With its rich history and enticing shopping opportunities, this iconic mall is a must-visit destination for those seeking a memorable shopping experience in Singapore.

Step into the past and discover the charm of traditional shopping at Lucky Plaza in Singapore. Nestled within a 20-year-old building, this iconic shopping center is a testament to Singapore's shopping heritage. Loved by both tourists and locals, Lucky Plaza offers a unique shopping experience where you can find quality products at incredibly affordable prices. From trendy sunglasses and stylish watches to delightful souvenirs, the plaza boasts a wide range of options for shoppers. As you explore this budget-friendly shopping destination, you'll also embark on a journey through Singapore's history. Immerse yourself in the nostalgia and vibrant atmosphere of Lucky Plaza, where the past meets the present, and every purchase becomes a treasured memory.

Tanglin Mall Bazaar stands out from the crowd with its unique selection of items that are sure to delight shoppers. Step into this quirky store and discover a treasure trove of vintage CDs, second-hand vinyl records, and retro-styled clothing, among other fascinating finds. What sets Tanglin Mall Bazaar apart is its distinct charm and the opportunity to browse and shop in a relaxed atmosphere, as it is usually not overcrowded. As one of the best shopping destinations in Singapore, this bazaar offers a delightful shopping experience. Additionally, the mall's food court is a hidden gem, providing an array of delicious and affordable dining options. Whether you're a collector, a lover of all things retro, or simply seeking a unique shopping experience, Tanglin Mall Bazaar is a must-visit destination that promises an eclectic mix of treasures and a taste of Singapore's vibrant shopping scene.

What are some unique souvenirs or local products to buy in Singapore?

• Peranakan-themed items: Look for intricately designed Peranakan ceramics, textiles, and accessories that reflect the vibrant heritage of the Straits Chinese community.
• Orchid-inspired products: Singapore is famous for its orchids. Consider purchasing orchid-scented perfumes, orchid-infused teas, or even preserved orchid blooms as a fragrant reminder of your visit.
• Merlion souvenirs: The iconic Merlion, a mythical creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish, is Singapore's national symbol. Look for Merlion-themed keychains, figurines, or t-shirts as unique keepsakes.
• Singaporean snacks: Indulge in local snacks such as Bak Kwa (barbecued meat jerky), Kaya (coconut jam), or traditional cookies like Kueh Bangkit and Pineapple Tarts. These delectable treats make great gifts for friends and family.
• Traditional Chinese tea: Explore the world of Chinese tea with a wide selection of high-quality teas available in Singapore. Consider purchasing unique blends or traditional tea sets as a thoughtful souvenir.
• Batik fabrics: Batik is a traditional Indonesian art form involving intricate wax-resist dyeing on fabric. You can find batik clothing, accessories, and home decor items in various designs and colors.
• Singaporean spices and sauces: Bring home the flavors of Singapore with aromatic spices like laksa paste, curry powders, or chili sauces such as sambal. These culinary delights will add a touch of Singaporean cuisine to your dishes.
• Traditional handicrafts: Explore local artisanal crafts such as wood carvings, miniature ship replicas, or handwoven baskets that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Singapore

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Is Singapore expensive for shopping?

Singapore can be both affordable and expensive for shopping, depending on where and what you choose to buy. The city-state offers a wide range of shopping options, from high-end luxury brands in upscale malls to budget-friendly markets and street vendors.

Luxury shopping malls like Orchard Road and Marina Bay Sands house international designer brands and luxury goods, which can be quite expensive. On the other hand, Singapore is also known for its vibrant street markets and hawker centers where you can find affordable clothing, accessories, and local products.

To make your shopping experience more budget-friendly, consider exploring local markets such as Bugis Street, Chinatown Street Market, or Haji Lane, where you can find reasonably priced clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. Additionally, keep an eye out for seasonal sales and promotions, especially during the Great Singapore Sale, where you can find discounts and deals on various products.

Ultimately, the cost of shopping in Singapore depends on your preferences, the type of products you're looking for, and the places you choose to shop. With a little planning and exploration, it is possible to find shopping options that suit different budgets and preferences.

What are some popular shopping streets or lanes to explore in Singapore?

• Orchard Road: Known as Singapore's premier shopping street, Orchard Road is lined with upscale malls and designer boutiques offering a wide range of international brands and luxury goods.
• Haji Lane: Located in the vibrant Kampong Glam neighborhood, Haji Lane is a hip and trendy shopping lane known for its independent boutiques, vintage stores, and unique fashion finds. It's a great place to discover local designers and alternative fashion.
• Bugis Street: Bugis Street is a bustling market street where you can find affordable clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. It's a popular spot for bargain hunters and fashion enthusiasts, with hundreds of stalls offering a wide variety of products.
• Chinatown Street Market: In the heart of Singapore's Chinatown, the Chinatown Street Market offers a vibrant and cultural shopping experience. Browse through stalls selling traditional Chinese products, antiques, handicrafts, and local snacks.
• Arab Street: Located in the Kampong Glam area, Arab Street is known for its textiles, carpets, and fabrics. Explore the colorful shops offering a wide range of textiles, from silk to batik, and find unique fabrics to create your own garments or home decor items.
• Little India: Serangoon Road in Little India is a bustling street filled with shops selling traditional Indian clothing, jewelry, spices, and handicrafts. Explore the vibrant colors and aromas while browsing through the numerous stores.
• Dempsey Hill: Situated in a tranquil and green area, Dempsey Hill offers a mix of shopping, dining, and art galleries. Discover unique furniture, home decor, and lifestyle stores nestled in restored colonial buildings.
• These are just a few of the popular shopping streets and lanes in Singapore. Each offers its own unique atmosphere and selection of shops, allowing visitors to explore and find the perfect items to suit their preferences.

Is it worth it Shopping in Singapore?

Yes, shopping in Singapore is definitely worth it as it offers a unique shopping experience with a mix of modern malls, traditional street markets, and niche boutiques. Singapore is known for its diverse shopping options, from luxury brands to local souvenirs, at different price points. The city is also known for its technology-driven shopping experience, with the latest innovations in retail such as virtual reality and interactive displays. Additionally, Singapore offers tax-free shopping for tourists, making it more affordable and attractive for international visitors. Overall, shopping in Singapore is a fun and rewarding experience, with something to offer for everyone's taste and budget.

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17 Best Shopping Malls & Streets in Singapore

Singapore has earned its reputation as one of the best shopping destinations in the world. Huge malls make up the Singapore shopping landscape. We’ll show you where to find luxury goods, designer clothes, boutique shops, and markets. As a traveler, you’ll be surprised by the endless shopping options. Here are the best shopping malls and areas in Singapore.

Table of Contents

1. Bugis Street

Bugis Street is the bustling shopping street close to Singapore’s downtown area. Transgender women once gathered here as it was known as a red-light district. The street is brimming with eager shop owners, curious tourists, and frugal locals. Bugis Street offers a huge range of items for sale, all at affordable prices. You can drift from stall to stall looking for bargains and delicious street snacks.

Things to See at Bugis Street

• Clothes – The stalls that line Bugis Street are packed with a huge selection of clothing items. Novelty T-shirts, hats, shoes, dresses, and jewelry can all be found in abundance here. Bugis Street is popular because the items sold here are extremely cheap. If you are looking for a new outfit on a budget, Bugis Street is your best bet.
• Souvenirs – Bugis Street also offers a wide range of cheap souvenirs. Typical souvenir items like key chains, magnets, and assorted knick-knacks are common.
• Food – If you’ve worked up an appetite while shopping, the food stalls on Bugis Street will satisfy you without a doubt. Try street food from a variety of Southeast Asian stalls, or pick up some dried food to cook a delicious meal at home.
• Opening Hours:  Daily 12pm-10pm
• Addrees:  3 New Bugis Street, Singapore 188867

Check Tours

2. Haji Lane

Haji Lane is one of the more popular streets of Kampong Glam, Singapore’s Muslim quarter. Known as the city’s “hipster neighborhood,” the lively street is packed with trendy shops. Try the latest new dish at one of the many restaurants while soaking in the lively atmosphere. Then, hit the shops for some one-of-a-kind pieces to show off at home. The quirky Haji Lane is the perfect place for fashion-forward and trendsetting shoppers.

Things to See at Haji Lane

• Modparade – Modparade puts a modern twist on vintage pieces. Bold prints, interesting shapes, and funky accessories take center stage here.
• Mondays Off – In addition to clothing, Mondays Off sells quirky lifestyle accessories. Spice up your home and kitchen with locally crafted pieces and intricate designs.
• Soon Lee – Here you’ll find contemporary designs in women’s fashion and lifestyle. Pieces are simple, sophisticated, and delicate. Not to mention, many of them are created by local artists.
• Opening Hours:  Daily 24/7; most shops close by 9pm
• Address: Haji Lane in Kampong Glam

3. Orchard Road

Orchard Road is the trendy sister street of Bugis Street. This road runs through the center of Singapore and is lined with swanky malls, hotels, and attractions. Orchard Street is especially popular during Christmas time when it is decorated with dazzling lights. Regardless of when you visit this street, you are bound to stay busy for hours shopping from one mall to another.

Things to See on Orchard Road

• Shops – The shopping here is mainly comprised of high-end shopping malls. There are huge malls all along the street and even underground. Go to the unique ION Orchard or the fashionable Knightsbridge Mall to start.
• Attractions – Nearby, you can visit the National Museum of Singapore, Fort Canning Park or Istana Heritage Gallery to get a deeper understanding of Singaporean culture.
• Spas – Lay back and rest your legs after a long day of shopping and museum hopping. Orchard Street provides plenty of options for those looking to relax. Alternatively, indulge in a rooftop spa treatment overlooking the busy buildings below at Andana or rejuvenate in one of Remede’s lavish spa rooms.

If you want to stay near Orchard Road, check out our recommendations for the best 4-star hotels and 5-star hotels .

• Opening Hours: Most shops close by 9pm, but restaurants may be open til midnight.
• Address: Orchard Road, Singapore

4. Sim Lim Square

Sim Lim Square is the electronics hub of Singapore. The mall offers a huge selection of all things electronics-related. You can buy computers, cameras or TVs. There are even services to build or repair your computer. Come to Sim Lim Square to shop for the latest electronic goods and services.

Things to See at Sim Lim Square

• Authorized dealers – Many shops at Sim Lim Square are authorized dealers for big electronics companies such as Toshiba and Sony. This means that the stores sell these goods legally. Rest assured you are not buying fraudulent items. Be sure to check the voltage requirements for the devices you buy. If they do not match the requirements of devices at home, you will need a plug adapter or voltage converter.
• Bargain Shops – Check the brochures handed out at Sim Lim Square for recent deals. Compare prices at different stores and bargain with the shopkeepers. With due diligence, you’ll get some amazing deals on quality products.
• Opening Hours:  Daily 11:30am-10:30pm
• Address:  1 Rochor Canal Rd, Singapore 188504

Official site

5. Paragon Shopping Centre

Paragon Shopping Centre is one of the more classy shopping malls on Orchard Road. The dramatic glass walls on its exterior attract upscale shoppers. With its sleek architecture, central location, and high-end brands, Paragon Shopping Centre gives you the best in luxury shopping.

Things to See at Paragon Shopping Centre

• Upscale Shops – Paragon Shopping Center has some of the best brands on offer. In addition to clothing, you’ll find jewelry, furniture, and books.
• Art – White Space Art Asia displays works of Chinese ink and focuses on the stories behind this age-old art form. Meanwhile, Lumas Gallery showcases various pieces of contemporary photography.
• Beauty spas – Paragon Shopping Centre is home to Porcelain, an extremely popular skincare brand in Asia. The World Luxury Spa Awards crowned this brand as the “Best Beauty Spa in Asia”. You can get a facial treatment from some of the best aestheticians around.
• Opening Hours:  Daily 10am-10pm
• Address:  290 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238859

6. 313 Somerset

313 Somerset is another one of Orchard Road’s famous shopping centers offering visitors the best in fashion, jewelry, and lifestyle products. The complex is is a food lover’s dream. Whether you are looking for craft beer, fresh produce, or Southeast Asian street food, 313 Somerset will deliver. A day shopping at 313 Somerset followed up by a delicious meal at one of its many restaurants is sure to delight.

Things to See at 313 Somerset

• Discovery Walk – This strip that links 313 Somerset to Orchard Road is lined with busy restaurants and bars. If you’re looking to try something new, the Discovery Walk has plenty of trendy restaurant options.
• Food Hall – The food hall located in the complex’s basement provides shoppers with quick dining options. Stop at one of these casual restaurants for a quick bite or bring some takeaway with you as you continue your shopping spree.
• Food Court – Food Republic is a popular food court located on the fifth floor of 313 Somerset. This open, airy plaza has a wide selection of food. With 26 vendors serving a range of dishes, Food Republic has something for everyone.
• Address:  313 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238895

7. Lucky Plaza

Lucky Plaza is one of the many shopping centers on Orchard Road. The 30-story complex is the ultimate shopping mall. You’ll find whatever you need here, with the shops selling clothing, furniture, electronics, and medicine. Once you’ve satisfied your retail therapy needs, grab some food at one of the building’s many dining options. With so many shops and restaurants in one complex, Lucky Plaza is one of the most extensive shopping centers you’ll find.

Things to See at Lucky Plaza

• Only 7 floors have shops  – The stores of Lucky Plaza occupy seven of the 30 floors. The 26 two-way escalators, eight elevators, and 500 shops and stalls are all crammed into this small area. Make time to wander through the “bazaar-style” floors, or locate specific shops on the plaza’s store guide if you’re short on time.
• Fairs – Lucky Plaza often hosts fairs, or “exhibitions,” in the complex atrium. Examples include: watch exhibitions, property exhibitions, and home furnishing fairs. Pop in on the right day and you may find just what you’ve been looking for.
• Filipino food – Lucky Plaza is known for its wide selection of Filipino foods. Filipino classics like Jollibee and Insanal are among the numerous options you’ll find here.
• Opening Hours:  Daily 9am-9pm
• Address:  304 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238863

8. Ion Orchard

Ion Orchard is the futuristic, self-proclaimed “multi-sensory experiential shopping and lifestyle mall” of Orchard Road. The shopping mall brings the best in shopping and entertainment. There are popular brands, fine dining restaurants, and inventive installations like the LED displays along the Orchard Boulevard Entrance. Treat yourself to the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells at Ion Orchard.

Things to See at Ion Orchard

• Great views – Ion Orchard provides several opportunities for its visitors to see the beautiful Singapore skyline. Take a walk while admiring the view from the garden on the ninth floor. For an even better view, step out onto Ion Sky, the mall’s observation deck on the 55 th and 56 th
• Free art exhibitions – Located on the fourth floor, Ion art is the mall’s effort to feature contemporary art and design from Asian creators. Pieces shown here are diverse and range from sculpture to multi-media art.
• A culinary history lesson – The “Food & Heritage Trail” culinary event showcases traditional Singaporean cuisines and local delicacies. Be sure to sign up for this special experience.
• Opening Hours: Daily 10am-10pm
• Address:  2 Orchard Turn, ION Orchard, Singapore 238801

9. Far East Plaza

Far East Plaza was one of the first shopping malls built on Orchard Road. This complex is popular among young and hip customers for its shops selling cheap trendy clothing. In addition, there are also a number of beauty salons, souvenir shops, and restaurants here. Visit Far East Plaza for some great bargains and fun people-watching opportunities.

Things to See at Far East Plaza

• Bargain shops – If an item catches your eye, don’t settle for the first price they ask. The shopkeepers at Far East Plaza will accept haggling, so feel free to bargain for the best deal. It’s not just cheap clothes you’ll find here. The shops at Far East Plaza sell anything and everything, from souvenirs to food to tickets to local attractions, all at a reasonable price.
• Beauty salons – This mall has several beauty and service salons that are just as affordable as its shops. Most of these salons do not require an appointment. Walk in for a spontaneous massage, haircut, or even a tattoo at Far East Plaza.
• Address:  14 Scotts Rd, Singapore 228213

10. Takashimaya

Takashimaya is a department store originally established in Japan. The retail company has made a name for itself as a high-end shopping center on Orchard Road. Luxury brands and fine dining restaurants are found on each floor. Treat yourself to a luxurious shopping spree at Takashimaya.

Things to See at Takashimaya

• The “Tourist Privileges Card” – Takashimaya offers special deals for tourists with a Tourist Privileges Card. Benefits include free amenities, gift vouchers, and discount meals. Inquire at the building’s customer service center for more information.
• Unique lifestyle shops – In addition to regular retail stores, you will find some unique studios and shops at Takashimaya. ABC Cooking Studio, for instance, hosts cooking classes. Meanwhile, ActionCity sells collectible “designer art” toys.
• Delectable dining – For the hungry shopper, Takashimaya provides an array of premium dining options. Try Japanese noodles, croissants, or some gourmet fruit.
• Wide range of services – Takashimaya is known for its top-notch services. During your shopping experience, you can expect the comforts of shopping bag deposits, babysitting services, gift-wrapping services, and clothing alterations.
• Opening Hours:  Daily 10am-9:30pm
• Address:  391A Orchard Rd, Singapore 238873

11. Mandarin Gallery

Mandarin Gallery is a shopping center located on Orchard Road. Here you will find popular international brands as well as offerings from local designers. Find the latest trends in international and local fashion in the chic setting of the Mandarin Gallery.

Things to See at Mandarin Gallery

• Excluniqueeee – This boutique brings the talents of Singaporean designers to Mandarin Gallery. The shop sells clothing, jewelry, makeup, and art work, all created by local artisans.
• Choo Yilin – Choo Yilin is a fine jeweler from Singapore. Pick up delicate jade and gold pieces from stores here.
• Xi Apparel & Jade – This Singaporean retailer sells women’s clothing that fuses Asian and Western styles. For instance, you’ll find a silk T-shirt with cherry blossoms, or a modernized version of the classic qipao “china dress.”
• Melissa Zakka – This store specializes in “zakka,” a trend popular in Asia. The word roughly translates from Japanese to “miscellaneous things,” and refers to any small object that can be used at home or in daily life.
• Opening Hours:  11am-10pm
• Address:  333A Orchard Rd, Singapore 238897

12. VivoCity

VivoCity is a huge shopping complex located right across the strait from Sentosa Island. With 97,000 square meters of retail space, it is the largest shopping mall in Singapore. Of course, a mall as large as this offers plenty to do for all members of the family. Spend a day shopping, eating, and exploring at VivoCity.

Things to See at VivoCity

• Family-friendly facilities – VivoCity’s Kid’s Club offers fun activities for your little ones. Options include floating around on paddle boats and riding on a mini express train.
• Entertaining events – Various events are regularly held at the complex’s atrium. Catch traveling events like the Pet Safari Roadshow or promotional events like the Basement 1 Launch.
• Lively promenade – Rest your feet from a long day of shopping in one of the outdoor dining areas on the promenade. Soak up the lively atmosphere and enjoy a tasty meal at the promenade.
• Address:  1 HarbourFront Walk, Singapore 098585

13. Suntec City Mall

Suntec City Mall is a shopping center located in Downtown Singapore. The sleek, futuristic complex is known for its design. The five buildings represent a hand while the Fountain of Wealth resembles a gold ring held in the palm of this hand. Explore Suntec City Mall’s interesting layout, shops, and recreation options for a fun day for the whole family.

Things to See at Suntec City Mall

• Duck & Hippo – See the highlights of Singapore on an open-air bus tour with Duck & Hippo. This fun tour company conducts regular tours starting at Suntec City Mall. Hit all the landmarks on one of their Hippo tours, or take a land-and-sea tour on the Duck bus.
• Fountain of Wealth – The Fountain of Wealth is the centerpiece of the Suntec City Mall complex. Waterfalls from the ridges of a huge ring into a smaller, central ring. The fountain really comes alive at night as it lights up and gives off a brilliant glow.
• Health and wellness – Head over to Suntec City Mall for a makeover at one of their beauty salons. Then, unwind at a yoga class or massage parlor, both of which can be found within the complex.
• Amazing dining options – Like many shopping centers in Singapore, Suntec City Mall has an extensive catalog of eateries and bars. Explore the stalls of Pasarbella, indulge your sweet tooth at Awfully Chocolate, or sit down at any of the food stores here.
• Address:  3 Temasek Blvd, Singapore 038983

Check Tours   Official site

14. Little India

Get to know the Indian community of Singapore in Little India. You’ll get a good sense of the culture in this area even though not all residents are from South Asia. Between the colorful storefronts, smells of incense burning, and gorgeous Hindu temples, Little India is an alluring and fascinating district for shopping in Singapore.

Things to See at Little India

• Festivals – The streets of Little India light up with cheerful installations during Deepavali, the Hindu festival of light. During the week prior to the festival watch the Silver Chariot procession. Little India is just as festive during Pongal, which is a Tamil celebration of the harvest.
• Indian food – Of course, you’ll want to get a taste of the dishes in Little India. Start at Tekka Market, where you’ll find fresh meat and produce on sale as well as numerous food stalls.
• Cheap shops – Little India is a great place to shop for unique souvenirs. Look for Indian fashion staples such as saris and gold jewelry, or colorful knickknacks to give your home some flair.
• Opening Hours: Generally daily 10am-midnight
• Address:  60 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 229900

15. Singapore Chinatown

Singapore Chinatown, located by the Marina, is a congregation of Chinese food, shops, and temples. Originally a haven for Chinese immigrants, these narrow streets give visitors a glimpse of the country’s culture and history. Spend a day exploring the bustling Singapore Chinatown for a fun day of shopping, eating, and more.

Things to See in Singapore Chinatown

• Virtual Room – This is a virtual reality experience that allows up to four players to enter a cyber world. The game’s incredible sensitivity to your movements and immersive headsets will have you spellbound.
• Street Markets – Bargain shops are in all the allies throughout Singapore Chinatown. You’ll find all sorts of souvenirs. After hours of shopping, stop by the food stalls, try the popular chili crab or get a sweet dessert before more exploring. 
• The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple – This is one of Chinatown’s most popular attractions for good reason. The four-story temple is built to impress, with its ornate exterior and detailed embellishments within. So don’t miss the Buddhist Culture Museum and roof garden while you’re there.
• Ann Siang Hill – This is a historic park just around the corner from Chinatown. Here you will find small colonial buildings renovated into trendy bars and restaurants. Come here for a round of drinks after your day in Chinatown.

If you want to stay in Chinatown, check out our article on 9 Best Luxury Boutique Hotels in Chinatown Singapore .

• Opening Hours:  Daily 9:30am-8pm
• Address:  Trengganu St, Singapore 050005

16. Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands is a world-class resort and is located on the southern coast of Singapore. This hotel has the best of luxury and entertainment, with a slew of shopping, dining, and recreation options for guests. Splurge on a couple of nights at Marina Bay Sands and take advantage of their huge shopping mall.

Things to See at Marina Bay Sands

• Future World – Immerse yourself in the fusion of technology and art known as Future World. This exhibition at ArtScience Museum uses light projections to create 3D settings.
• Spectra – Spectra uses water, light, and sound to tell the story of “Singapore’s journey” in a visual presentation. The show is open to the public and held daily in front of the resort.
• Sampan rides – Mellow out on a sampan, which is a type of boat used in East Asia. Marina Bay Sands allows visitors to float around its indoor canals on these sampans. 
• Celebrity restaurants – With ten celebrity restaurants located in Marina Bay Sands, the resort is a must-do for food fanatics. Celebrity chefs who have opened restaurants include Gordon Ramsay, Wolfgang Puck, and David Myers.
• Infinity Pool – Lastly, you can’t miss the infinity pool on the rooftop of Marina Bay Sands. Besides swimming in this gorgeous pool, you’ll have views to die for. On one side, the city’s skyscrapers light up the skies, and on the other, Gardens by the Bay will make your jaws drop. Stay at Marina Bays Sands for 1 night and you’ll have free access to the roof.
• Opening Hours:  Sunday to Thursday 10:30am-11pm; Friday & Saturday 10:30am-11:30pm 
• Address:  2 Bayfront Ave Marina Bay Sands, Singapore 018972

Check Hotel   Official site

17. Clarke Quay

The historic Clarke Quay is a riverside landmark that borders Singapore’s downtown district. The shimmering water of the Singapore River provides a pleasant backdrop for the bustling shops, restaurants, and bars. The historic charm, idyllic setting, and lively crowds at Clarke Quay make it irresistible to fun-loving locals and visitors alike.

Things to See at Clarke Quay

• Nightlife – Clarke Quay is known for its vibrant nightlife. Sip on a tasty cocktail on an anchored Chinese junk or dance up a storm in one of the converted warehouse clubs.
• Singapore River – Take in the sights and sounds of Clarke Quay from the water on a river cruise. There are many options when it comes to these cruises. Some include live guides while others include dinner, so choose the one that best suits your interests.
• Art – Take some time to explore the nooks and crannies of Clarke Quay and you will be rewarded with some impressive works of art. Artwork covers the walls of back streets, while intriguing pieces line the walls of small galleries and workshops.
• Opening Hours: Most shops & clubs open daily til midnight. Friday & Weekends till 4am for some venues.
• Address:  3 River Valley Rd, Singapore 179024

Singapore Shopping Map

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Find More Singapore Tours in Shopping Areas

Bugis street is one of the best places to go if you want to find a bargain souvenir, clothes or other items. The other good option is Chinatown. While this area is more targeted to tourists, there are still lots of bargains.

Marina Bay Sands Shoppes certainly has the most luxurious brands and shops. There definitely won’t be any bargaining here. You’ll find brands like Jimmy Choo, Dior, Hugo Boss, Adidas, Chanel, and much more.

We highly recommend Chinatown Singapore. There’s an outdoor section with authentic Asian shops offering desserts, Chinese cuisines and of course, the famous chilli crab.

Orchard Road is by far the most populated shopping district in Singapore. There are shopping malls on the road itself, levels going underground, and some malls on side streets. They range from luxury complexes like ION Orchard to more affordable centres like Lucky Plaza.

VivoCity is the biggest shopping mall in Singapore. It’s also the closest one to Sentosa where there are plenty of family attractions like Universal Studios. So if you’re planning a trip with young kids, staying near VivoCity is a good option.

Singapore Shopping Opening Hours 

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Your Guide To The Best Shopping In Singapore

By Bridget O'Donohue

21st Feb 2024

From buzzing, decades-old street markets to cutting-edge, experiential malls, Singapore is hands down the best city to get your shop on. With so many iconic destinations to choose from, Urban List is here to help you spend that money wisely by hitting all the top spots.

Grab your wallet, here are nine of the best places to shop in Singapore. 

Jewel Changi Airport

Changi .

You wouldn’t chuck a city’s airport to the top of your shopping hitlist unless it was in transit through duty-free, but Jewel Changi Airport deserves a visit beyond the stopover. The shopping complex opened next to Terminal 1 in 2019, and it’s been a crowd favourite ever since.

From Teva and Crocs to Kate Spade and Coach, you can hop through over a hundred local and international retailers against the stunning backdrop of the Shiseido Forest Valley—a 10-storey indoor garden boasting over 60,000 plants and a 40-metre cascading waterfall. 

Bugis Street Markets

One of the best places in the city to score a bargain, the Bugis Street Markets offer up mix of souvenirs, clothing, tech, homewares, cosmetics and accessories. Weave your way through 400+ shops under one sprawling roof. The market sits beside Bugis+ and Bugis Junction giving you the ultimate access endless shopping.

You’ll be ravenous with all that browsing, so grab a snack from the Bugis Street Market or dig into some local fare at one of the nearby hawker centres or coffeeshops.

Haji Lane 

Kampong gelam .

Singapore’s original hipster haven, Haji Lane is a front-runner for locals and tourists heading to Kampong Gelam. Lined with walls of bright murals and striking street art, this shopping hub is home to tattoo parlours, yoga studios, local boutiques and a host of independent eateries.

Considered one of the best places to sink ice-cold craft beers and shop vintage, upcycled and handcrafted goods,  it’s also worth popping into the pug and cat cafes for some quality cuddle time. 

ION Orchard

Positioned in Singapore’s high-end retail heart on Orchard Road, the striking glass and marble building of  ION Orchard  hosts a staggering array of fashion houses.

Ideal for getting your glam on, shop your way through YSL, Prada, Cartier and Gucci, before treating yourself to a session at Clarins Skin Spa or an elaborate lunch at one of the fine diners. 

Funan 

Civic district.

An urban millennial’s dream, Funan is the uber-modern mixed-use hub where you can work, sleep, shop and play—all under one roof. Once the destination for electronics and IT, it’s now the go-to for folding bikes, designer furniture, indoor plants and cutting-edge street style. 

When you’ve had your retail fix, check out the theatre, rock climbing centre, indoor cycling track and rooftop garden—complete with an edible urban farm. 

You may also like:

• The Best Sentosa Beach Clubs
• The Best Singapore Shopping For Homegrown Style
• The Best Bars In Singapore For An Epic Cocktail

Chinatown Street Markets

Chinatown .

Wind your way through the heart of Chinatown in a sea of floating lanterns as you pick through a huge selection of affordable goods—from clothing and homewares to tech and accessories.

It’s also the best spot to nab incredible souvenirs, like Chinese handicrafts, opera masks and calligraphy. Once you're shopped out, hit up Chinatown Complex to refuel with  Michelin-recommended eats .  

IMM Outlet 

Jurong east.

This shopping metropolis spans five levels of global brands and local favourites in the city's west. Singapore's largest outlet mall, IMM Outlet is home to a melting pot of cuisines and over 100 stores—where you can score up to 80% off top brands year-round. 

We suggest hunting for bargains at labels like Levi’s, Guess and Coach, then nabbing a pair of iconic trainers over at Adidas or Onitsuka Tiger.

Little India

An iconic, six-storey department store in the middle of Little India, Mustafa is the go-to for late-night shoppers and bargain hunters. Open 24 hours, you can cross off your entire shopping list in one short session at any time of day—we’re talking perfume, souvenirs, tech, cosmetics, clothes, groceries, and even suitcases if yours is already packed to the brim with shopping. 

Explore aisle after jampacked aisle, then head to the ground floor for a spicy curry or fragrant biriyani from the Mustafa Cafe—also open an incredible 24 hours a day. 

Design Orchard

Part events space, part creative incubator, Design Orchard is a haven for the city’s creatives. Host to an impressive collection of wares and works from independent homegrown talent, the space offers over 100 local brands , designers and creators the opportunity to nurture their craft and sell their goods to an international market.

Browse through unique collections of fashion, homewares and furniture or sign yourself up for a crash course in clean beauty or personal styling. 

Looking for more? Check out:

• The Best Singapore Restaurants Every Foodie Needs To Try
• 13 Of The Most Relaxing Places For A Massage In Singapore
• The Best Singapore Brunch Experiences To Try Right Now

Maine image credit: Jewel Changi Airport | Facebook

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A Guide to Shopping in Singapore | Best Things to Buy, Malls, Souvenirs & More

The only island city-state in the world, Singapore is one of the most extravagant yet dynamic cities for commerce and recreation. The city offers it all, including enormous shopping malls, stunning gardens, and an extremely fast transportation system. Here’s everything you need to know if you are going shopping in Singapore:

Best Things to Buy in Singapore

Orchid Perfume

Accessories.

Since orchids are the national flower of Singapore and have excellent fragrances, purchasing these orchid-infused perfumes there makes sense. Be sure to head to places where authentic Singaporean perfumes are available to procure the best products.

Where to buy:  

• Orchid Perfume - Singapore Memories - Find on map
• Jamal Kazura Aromatics - Find on map

Asian Housewares

You must not miss out on Asian artifacts, and you should bring some with you when you go home. These are the top products to purchase in Singapore for gifts, ranging from stunning scrolls to one-of-a-kind antique antiques for your house.

• The Cinnamon Room - Find on map
• HOUZE @ PLQ - The Homeware Superstore - Find on map

Tiger Balm Products

Herbal items.

Aw Chu Kin, a Chinese herbalist, founded the Tiger Balm company, which has its roots in the early ancient court of Chinese emperors. The company's operations were expanded from China to Singapore. These herbal medicinal products are best bought in Singapore.

• LAC Nutrition For Life - Find on map
• FairPrice Bishan St 13 - Find on map

Early Chinese immigrants brought Bak-Kwa, also called BBQ sliced pig or beef, to Singapore. It is barbecued over charcoal and marinated in sugar. It is commonly consumed and customarily given to relatives and friends during celebrations.

• Bugis Street Food - Find on map
• Amoy Street Food Centre - Find on map

Gold Accessories

Luxury items.

The most luxurious present you can give to your loved someone. Real orchids are covered in 24K gold to create gold-plated orchids, which are used to create classy jewelry and official business presents like cards and pen holders, all of which are great things to buy in Singapore.

• Suntec City Mall - Find on map
• TANGS at Tang Plaza - Find on map

Singapore Sling

The "Singapore Sling," generally regarded as the national beverage of the city-state, was invented in the 1930s at the Long Bar of the Raffles Hotel. The original ingredients for this widely consumed beverage were gin, cherry brandy, orange juice, lime juice, and pineapple juice.

• Long Bar - Find on map
• Stickies Bar @ Aljunied - Find on map

Best Shopping Streets in Singapore

Orchard Road

Shopping street.

Location: Orchard Rd, Singapore Find on map

Best for: Luxury accessories and clothing

Best stores: ION Orchard, Hermès, Shaw House

Getting there: Take a bus and get down at the Orchard Stn/Tang Plaza bus stop

Timings: 10 AM to 9 PM

Shopping area

Location: Marina Bay, Singapore Find on map

Best for: Luxury clothing and accessories

Best stores: AURAHERA, LALU @ Marina Square, Massimo Dutti

Getting there: Take a bus and get down at the Promenade Stn/Pan Pacific bus stop

Shopping district

Location: 28034 Singapore, Spain Find on map

Best for: Local street shopping

Best stores: Michael Trio, Anthony The Spice Maker, Dustbunny Vintage

Getting there: Take a bus and get down at the Maxwell Rd FC bus stop

Little India

Location: Little India, Singapore Find on map

Best for: Indian clothing and accessories

Best stores: Little India MRT, Nalli Chinnasami Chetty Pte Ltd, Singapore Indian Handloom

Getting there: Take a bus and get down at the Tekka bus stop

Bugis Street

Location: New Bugis Street, Singapore Find on map

Best for: Budget shopping

Best stores: Fu Lu Shou Complex, Origins Bugis Junction, Bugis Junction

Getting there: Take a bus and get down at the Bugis Stn Exit B bus stop

Timings: 10 AM to 8 PM

Clarke Quay

Shopping area.

Location: 3 River Valley Rd, Singapore 179024 Find on map

Best for: High-end items

Best stores: Herschel Supply Co., Riverside Point, Temple Cellars (UE Square)

Getting there: Take a bus and get down at the Clarke Quay bus stop

Best Souvenirs in Singapore

Merlion Souvenirs

Where to buy: Melissa Zakka, Fountain Souvenirs & Gifts, Changi Airport

Coconut Jam

Where to buy: Ya Kun Kaya Toast, Raffles City MarketPlace, FairPrice City Square Mall

Laksa Paste

Where to buy: FairPrice Xtra VivoCity, Raffles City MarketPlace, Little Farms, Valley Point

Peranakan Porcelain

Where to buy: Hai Seng Porcelain, Star Porcelain Wares Sdn. Bhd.

Beaded Jewelry

Where to buy: Shinobeads, BeadtleSweet, Beads and Crafts

Singapore Pressed Pennies

Where to buy: Universal Studios Singapore, Gardens By The Bay gift shop, National Museum of Singapore

Best Malls in Singapore

Luxury shopping mall

What to buy: Clothing, accessories, and housewares

Location: 1 HarbourFront Walk, Singapore 098585 Find on map

Timing: 10 AM to 10 PM

Shopping mall

What to buy: Accessories and clothing

Location: 810 Geylang Rd, Singapore 409286 Find on map

What to buy: Jewelry and clothing

Location: 2 Jurong East Street 21, Singapore 609601 Find on map

Lucky Plaza

What to buy: Clothing and accessories

Location: SG, Orchard Rd, Lucky Plaza, Singapore 238863 Find on map

Anchorpoint Shopping Centre

Budget shopping mall.

What to buy: Affordable fashion accessories

Location: 370 Alexandra Rd, Singapore 159953 Find on map

City Square Mall

What to buy: Clothing, accessories, and food

Location: 180 Kitchener Rd, Singapore 208539 Find on map

Best Luxury Shopping Destinations in Singapore

What to buy: Luxury accessories and clothing

What to buy: Luxury clothing and accessories

What to buy: High-end items

Paragon Shopping Centre

What to buy: Women’s clothing and accessories

Location: 290 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238859 Find on map

Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM

Ngee Ann City

What to buy: Luxury and exclusive accessories

Location: 391A Orchard Rd, Singapore 238873 Find on map

Timings: 10 AM to 9:30 PM

Budget Shopping Destinations in Singapore

What to buy: Indian clothing and accessories

What to buy: Budget shopping

The Editor’s Market

Budget shopping outlet.

Location: 201 Victoria St, #01-04 BUGIS +, Singapore 188067 Find on map

Timings: 10:30 AM to 10 PM

Shopping in Singapore: Essentials

Modes of payment:  

• Visa/Mastercard: Most large establishments accept Visa and Mastercards, but you may be asked to make a minimum transaction.
• DBS PayLah: DBS PayLah is the most recognized and used online transaction application used in Singapore.
• Cash: Singapore is not a very cash-dependent city, but when making small purchases at flea markets and street food outlets, cash is the best way to go.

April, May, October, and November are the best months to visit and go shopping in Singapore because:

• Shopping is pleasurable throughout these months due to the lower possibility of rainfall.
• During some of these months, stores across Singapore offer discounts on their collections.

• Restaurant Ibid: Singapore has some great Chinese food establishments, and this restaurant is definitely among the top. Find on map
• MTR Singapore: This vegetarian establishment is equally well versed in serving delectable food for dine-in as well as for takeout. Find on map
• MIZ Japanese Restaurant: The lovers of authentic Japanese dining need not look much further than this quaint eatery on Kampong Bahru Road. Find on map
• Annalakshmi Restaurant: If it is Indian food that you are looking for, Annalakshmi Restaurant is the best place to choose in Singapore. Find on map
• Pietrasanta The Italian Restaurant: This eatery is known for its pizzas, pasta, and a wide variety of authentic Italian dishes. Find on map

By Metro: The quickest and easiest way to navigate Singapore is by using the MRT subway system. It is effective, spotless, and pleasantly cool. The system runs from 5.30 a.m. to midnight and includes more than 130 stops.

By Bus: You can enjoy air-conditioned comfort while taking in the lush foliage and stunning architecture of the "city in a garden," when traveling in a bus. Payment for buses can be made by using the EZ-Link card.

By Taxi: When you need to get to one of Singapore's few outlying districts that aren't served by the city-public state's transportation system, when you need to get somewhere quickly, or when it's late at night, metered taxis and rideshare services are available.

• Don't forget to bring an extra bag with you because Singapore is one of the best places in the world to go shopping.
• Plan your trip to Singapore between May and July to take advantage of the Great Singapore Sale if you're just going there to shop.
• To make it simpler to purchase everything you need in one location, pick a shopping region with lots of shops and malls.
• Visit outlet malls like IMM for affordable shopping because they provide year-round savings on all kinds of brands.
• Look for stores that advertise "Tax-Free Shopping" or "GST Refund."
• Don't forget to ask the shop if your item is covered by an international warranty.
• Check to see if using your card for free international purchases is permitted. If not, choose one that does in order to drastically cut the expense of your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions about Shopping in Singapore

The best things to buy in Singapore are artisanal products like beautiful shawls and ceramic items that you must buy. You can also find luxury brand stores selling exclusive jewelry, clothing, and accessories.

The best souvenirs to buy in Singapore are local products like wine, spices, and olive oil. You may also purchase ceramic plates and shoes.

The most preferred mode of payment throughout Singapore is a credit or debit card. You can also use online payment at big outlets and malls.

There are numerous famous shopping streets in Singapore. Gran Via and Princesa are great places to shop.

Southern Singapore, near Marina Bay and Clarke Quay, is famous for shopping.

Luxury clothes, accessories, jewelry, as well as artisanal items exclusively made in Singapore are probably the best things you can buy in Singapore.

VivoCity is possibly the most famous shopping center in Singapore. Ngee Ann City also has many shopping outlets and is a famous shopping center in Singapore.

Luxury clothes, accessories, jewelry, and artisanal items exclusively made in Singapore like designer housewares, crockery, chocolates, and decorative items are great things to buy in Singapore.

VivoCity, City Square Mall, and Ngee Ann City are the best malls to go to when visiting Singapore.

The best markets to visit in Singapore are Little India, Haji Lane, and Chinatown.

The major shopping streets in Singapore include Orchard Road, Haji Lane, and Bugis Street.

Singapore has some of the top kids’ toy outlets including the LEGO store. You can also head to one of the many theme parks and attractions on Sentosa Island that would delight and thrill kids.

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The 10 best places for shopping in Singapore in 2021

For some visitors, shopping in Singapore is one of the highlights of their trip. With huge variety and some great prices, the Southeast Asian city-state is a dream come true for many shoppers.

From clothes to souvenirs to electronics, we selected the 10 best places for shopping in Singapore.

These places are the best for shopping in Singapore

• Orchard Road – For anything you could possibly need
• Marina Bay Sands – For everything luxury
• Chinatown Street Market – For fun souvenirs
• Lucky Plaza – For budget shopping
• Haji Lane – For boutique lovers
• Bugis Street Market – A street shopper’s paradise
• Mustafa Centre – Find everything at slashed prices
• City Plaza – For sustainable fashion
• Far East Plaza – For pocket-friendly beauty and fashion products
• IMM – For outlet shopping

Top 10 best places for shopping in Singapore

1. orchard road – anything you could possibly need.

Orchard Road is a famous shoppers’ paradise for a reason and we rank it as the best overall place for shopping in Singapore.

With international and local department stores, mega malls and boutiques, on Orchard Road shoppers can find everything from budget clothing to electronics, to homeware to high-end fashion items. Street performers and buskers help add to the vibrant buzz of the area.

Most shops open between 9 and 10 AM and close at 10 PM with extended opening hours until 11 PM on Saturdays. Head to Orchard MRT station which is located right by Orchard Road.

2. The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands – For everything luxury

Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands complex is a striking feature of the city’s skyline and is also home to a luxury shopping mall.

Even visitors not intending to shop can admire its impressive modern architecture and vast glass windows. Visitors can also take the lift to the 57th floor to experience a staggering view over the bay.

Open daily from 10.30 AM to 11 PM and with over 250 shops and restaurants ranging from high street brands to designer stores, this is one of the best shopping malls in Singapore. The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is a 10 minutes walk from Bayfront MRT Station.

3. Chinatown Street Market – For souvenirs

Chinatown Street Market, held daily on Pagoda, Trengganu and Sagu streets is the place to head to get a sense of what the area offers in terms of shopping.

If you are wondering what to buy in Singapore, stroll through the colourful stalls selling artwork, clothing, traditional candles and tasty treats. This is a great place to pick up a souvenir at a bargain price. Make sure you haggle to get the best deal.

The market is open from 9.30 AM to 8 PM daily. For the best atmosphere, visit after dark when it is illuminated by lights and lanterns. To reach the market, use the Chinatown MRT station (Exit C).

4. Lucky Plaza – For hidden gems at the lowest prices

Often neglected by locals, Lucky Plaza is favoured by the Filipino community here, and it is no question why. A quick venture into the building will uncover a collection of the cheapest eats and apparels you can find in town.

The stores have racks brimming with all sorts of clothing, so you may need to do a little digging to find something you like. You will not regret it because clothes here go for such low prices – starting from $3 – that it will make your time worthwhile.

Hours are from 9am to 9pm, and it can get especially crowded on the weekends.

READ MORE: When is the best time to visit Singapore?

5. Haji Lane – For boutique shopping

With a plethora of vintage stores and boutiques, this narrow street in the Arab Quarter offers a unique Singapore shopping experience vastly different from the many air conditioned malls. From clothing to accessories to vintage electronics, this is a great place to wander from shop to shop, trying to spot an interesting buy.

Most shops in Haji Lane are open from 12 noon to 8 PM and it is also a great spot for an evening drink. The closest MRT station is Bugis station which is 500 metres from the entrance to Haji Lane.

6. Bugis Street Market – The largest street market

Located between Little India and Marina Bay, Bugis Street Market is one of the most popular places to go shopping in Singapore.

The largest street market in the city, with 800 stalls under a canvas roof, visitors could spend half a day bargaining for cheap clothes and electronics (and stopping for a bite to eat).

This impressive market is open from 12 noon to 10 PM daily. As for Haji Lane, Bugis MRT station is the best option for the Bugis Street Market.

7. Mustafa Centre, Little India – Prices slashed like you have never seen

Open 24 hours a day, and operating much like a market, the Mustafa Centre is a well-known icon of Singapore shopping, loved by locals and visitors alike.

Here visitors can find an abundance of products at extremely low prices including watches, electronics and textiles. Jewellery is a much sought after product at the Centre as gold can be purchased affordably.

Actually two department stores that have been merged, the Mustafa Centre has goods arranged by type, making it a great place to browse for a bargain.

The centre is a short walk from Farrer Park MRT Station.

READ MORE: Love shopping? Check out the 10 biggest shopping malls in the world

8. City Plaza – For sustainable fashion

Nestled in the east side of Singapore, City Plaza is a budget-friendly fashion paradise. The five-storey building is home to wholesale retailers, vintage toy stores and preloved boutiques.

Here, there are a few thrift stores with a carefully curated collection of secondhand clothes at just a fraction of their original price. There is a huge focus on collecting preloved women’s apparel from fast fashion brands and popular local blogshops in the stores here, which makes it a haven for fashion enthusiasts.

Most shops are open from 10 AM to 10 PM. Take the MRT to Paya Lebar Station and it is a 10 minutes walk from there.

9. Far East Plaza – Budget-friendly beauty products and apparel

Before online shopping was a thing, Far East Plaza was the place to go. Located at the end of the Orchard Road stretch, this mall can be unassuming; the exterior is a little run down, and a few spaces are left empty. However, it is home to a ton of mid-range boutiques, local brands, beauty salons and more.

You can find many Asian-inspired styles here, from Korean and Japanese outfits, to glitzy costumes. If you are a shoe lover, definitely check out the basement, and there are affordable beauty products on almost every floor.

The mall opens from 10AM to 10PM, but some stores close early, so I recommend coming in the afternoon.

10.  IMM – For outlet shopping

If you’re talking outlet shopping, you have got to check out the largest outlet mall in Singapore.

If you are looking for everything under one roof, IMM has over 80 outlet fashion stores ranging from local to international brands. Prepare to spend a few hours here and you will definitely not be disappointed – there is a good deal around every corner.

Besides that, there are a number of home furnishing stores to get any interior design needs fulfilled.

Open for 12 hours every day (from 10 AM to 10 PM), this huge mall is a great place to spend your whole day shopping. The closest MRT station is Jurong East MRT Station.

Take your pick from luxury malls, markets or chic streets and get the most from your Singapore shopping experience.

Check out our Singapore Travel Guide for tips on everything you need to know when planning your trip to Singapore so you can make the most of your time on the Little Red Dot!

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20 Best Places For Shopping In Singapore In 2024

• Last Updated on March 21, 2024
• Anurag Kothari

Singapore is a shopper’s paradise popular for its vibrant shopping scene. Over the years, Lion City has established itself as the premier destination for retail therapy. Singapore has become renowned as a paradise for shopping enthusiasts, providing a vast range of shopping choices that satisfy every preference, fashion sense, and financial plan. Shopping in Singapore is indeed a great experience. 

The city of Singapore boasts a diverse and exciting shopping experience that attracts visitors worldwide. There is something for everyone to enjoy, with various options ranging from local markets to high-end luxury boutiques and sprawling shopping malls. Whether it’s international brands, local designers, or traditional crafts, Singapore’s shopping scene has it all.

Iconic shopping destinations like Orchard Road feature luxury flagship stores and trendy fashion boutiques. Meanwhile, Chinatown and Little India are street markets where visitors can discover authentic souvenirs and traditional crafts. No matter what shoppers seek, Singapore has options to cater to their desires.

Shopping centres are frequently impressive feats of architecture, featuring exceptional designs and innovative ideas that enhance the shopping experience. 

No matter what you are looking for, Singapore offers everything. In this post, we will look at the best shopping places in Singapore. 

List of 20 Best Shopping Places in Singapore for Shopping

• Lucky Plaza
• Tanglin Mall Bazaar
• Far East Plaza
• The Editor’s Market
• Anchorpoint Shopping Center
• Bugis Street
• Scape Underground
• Orchard Road
• Little India
• Clarke Quay
• Holland Village
• Mustafa Center Singapore
• Tiong Bahru

20 Best Places For Shopping In Singapore in 2024

1. vivocity.

If you want the ultimate shopping experience in Singapore, head to VivoCity, which has the best shopping and entertainment in one place. It is one of the largest shopping malls in Singapore, and there are many things to do there. You can find all kinds of brands here, both local and international. It is the perfect place for those who love to shop. If you are getting tired of roaming around, take a break and check out the amphitheatre and sky park on the top floor.

• Location – 1 HarbourFront Walk, Singapore
• Timings – 10 AM-10 PM
• What to buy – Clothes, homewares, and accessories

2. Lucky Plaza

Lucky Plaza is a busy shopping place in Singapore and is located on Orchard Road. It is a popular and fun place for locals and tourists. Here, you can find different types of product shops, popular dishes to eat, and many things to do. As you step in, you’ll be greeted by a lively atmosphere.

• Location – 304 Orchard Road, Singapore
• Timings – 9 AM-9 PM
• What to buy – Souvenirs, watches, and sunglasses

3. Chinatown

Chinatown is one of the places to go in Singapore if you are looking for cheap shopping. Chinatown is a great place for people who are looking for a budget shopping experience in Singapore. However, if you are a hearty bargainer, you can easily purchase a good-quality product from here at a reasonable price. Ann Siang Road, Chinatown Point, and Books are actually the most popular stores in Chinatown. For Singapore shopping streets, head to Chinatown.

• Location – 75 Pagoda Street, Singapore
• What to buy – Satin Chinese robes, Souvenirs, and Spices

It is one of the largest shopping malls in Singapore and a must-visit place to have the ultimate shopping experience in Lion City. Whether or not you are a shopaholic, visit IMM to find amazing deals on local brands like Charles & Keith and big international brands such as Sacoor, DKNY, and COACH. There are various home furnishing stores where you can grab some good stuff to upgrade your home.

• Location – 2 Jurong East Street 21, Singapore
• What to buy – Accessories, Branded Clothes, and Home Furnishings

5. Tanglin Mall Bazaar

Tanglin Mall is a popular and calm area also called Tanglin. It is a fancy place to shop in Singapore. You can shop, eat, and chill out there, all in one spot. You can purchase high-quality lifestyle and fashion products, handicrafts, and unique antique items at the best cost. This Mall is known for its premium-quality brands and products. And don’t miss the chance to explore the array of cafes and restaurants.

• Location – 163 Tanglin Road, Singapore
• What to buy – retro clothes, vinyl, and vintage CDs

6. Far East Plaza

It’s a place to shop in Singapore if you are a fashion freak. Far East Plaza is one stop destination for budget shopping for clothes, accessories, footwear, and all things related to fashion. The place is known to be home to shops where one can find styles directly from Hong Kong, from trendy Korean attires to apparel that throw retro vibes. It’s not a place for you if you are looking for brands.

• Location – 14 Scotts Road, Singapore
• What to buy – trendy footwear, accessories, and apparel

7. The Editor’s Market

The Editor’s Market is one of the best places to go shopping in Singapore. Here, you can buy multiple branded products without hampering your budget. You can indulge in retail therapy or binge shop. It is one of the places where you shop at a low price, as it follows a step pricing policy, which means the more you shop, the less you pay.

• Location – 313 Orchard Road #03-01 to 08, 313@Somerset
• Timings – 10:30 AMto10 PM
• What to buy – Women’s clothing, accessories, home fragrances, home décor

8. City Plaza

City Plaza is one of the oldest shopping malls in Singapore, where tourists can buy several things within a budget. One can spend hours shopping on five different plaza floors, searching for their perfect pick. Gadgets, clothes, and accessories serve the needs of every kind. After a tiring stroll here, one can eat delicious food in the food court.

• Location – 810 Geylang Road, Singapore
• Timings – 9:30 AM-10 PM
• What to buy – Makeup, clothes, accessories

9. Pasarbella

If you want to learn about and experience a typical farmer’s market, visit Pasarbella. It is one of the experiences you must have when in Singapore. Pasarbella is one of the best places to shop in Singapore for delectable food items at cheap prices. From various beers and meat items to fresh produce, one can find everything related to food.

• Location – 01-455-461 North Wing, Suntec City, 3 Temasek Blvd
• Timings – 10 AM-9 PM
• What to buy – craft beer, seafood, fresh produce, meat

10. Anchorpoint Shopping Center

To go on cheap shopping in Singapore, visit Anchorpoint shopping centre, known for exclusive branded luxury materials at very affordable prices. Plan your visit to this shopping place in Singapore during weekends when everything is available at throwaway prices in weekly sales. It is also known to be a place where one can find supermarkets, food courts, clinics, and launderettes in one place.

• Location – 370 Alexandra Road, Singapore
• Timings – 7:30 AM-1 AM
• What to buy – Clothes, accessories, footwear

11. Bugis Street

Bugis Street is a famous shopper’s paradise and one of the great places to go shopping in Singapore. It is Singapore’s most happening and biggest shopping destination, which always remains busy, and the prices here are incredibly low. This bustling area is a popular destination for shopping, enjoying delicious meals, and relaxing at trendy cafes and bars open late.

The Bugis Street Market is located in the heart of it all, conveniently situated next to the malls near the Bugis MRT Station. You get souvenirs, clothes, accessories, electronics, houseware, and cosmetics. The products start at just SGD 1. 

• Location : 3 New Bugis Street, Singapore 188867
• Timings : 10 am to 10 pm
• What to buy : Souvenirs, accessories, electronics, clothes

12. Scape Underground

This five-story lifestyle hub was designed specifically for and voted on by young people. It includes recording and rehearsal studios on the third floor, a dance studio on the fourth floor, an art gallery, and a performance theatre. For those looking for affordable clothing, gifts, and novelty items, the basement houses *Scape Underground is home to many small stores selling cosmetics, mobile accessories, trinkets, and more.

• Location : 2 Orchard Link, Singapore 237978
• Timings : 10.30 am to 10.30 pm
• What to buy : Mobile accessories, trinkets

13. Orchard Road

Undoubtedly, Orchard Road is a shopper’s and diner’s paradise that offers luxury retail to world-class global cuisines. There are several established shops here that provide visitors and locals with a great shopping experience all together. 

Here, you can buy fashionable clothes, branded items, accessories, shoes, etc. Also, there are many affordable shopping options here. You can head to the Ion Orchard Mall, a multi-storey building where you can buy designer outfits. Lucky Plaza, Tangs Plaza, and Paragon are also a few malls here.

• Location : Orchard Rd, Singapore
• Timings : 9 am to 10 pm or 11 pm
• What to buy : Renowned fashion labels

14. Little India

One of the vibrant destinations of Singapore is Little India, which also presents rich cultural experiences because of the presence of religious sites. As the name suggests, Little India showcases Indian culture and is a small area with cafes and shops.

Although Little India is famous for shopping in Singapore for Indian things, you can also have a great food experience here. You can also visit the Mustafa Center here, providing a 24-hour shopping experience. Make sure you grab a bite at the Tekka Center, Banana Leaf Apolo, or any other nearby restaurant for the best Indian food. 

• Timings : 24 hours
• What to buy : Towards the East Of Singapore

15. Haji Lane

Located in the heart of Kampong Glam, Haji Lane is a stylish alleyway filled with unique independent boutiques, cafes, and quirky stores. It is known for being one of the narrowest streets in Singapore and is adorned with vibrant colours.

For those seeking unique additions to their wardrobe, Haji Lane has become a popular shopping destination. This lane boasts numerous quirky stores, each inspired by various regions and periods. These shops offer exclusive and exotic products that cannot be found elsewhere.

• Location : Kampong Glam neighbourhood
• What to buy :  Clothing and accessories

16. Marina Bay

If you want luxurious shopping in Singapore, head to Marina Bay, where you will find some of the finest malls. These malls offer a blend of modern convenience with various high street and luxury brands.

For the ultimate luxury shopping in Singapore, head to the Shoppes, a part of the remarkable Marina Bay Sands complex that houses flagship stores by well-known luxury brands. There are hundreds of shops, great cafes and bars, and world-class restaurants here. Other shop options include the Suntec Center, Esplanade Mall, Marina Square, etc. 

• Location : Marina Bay
• Timings : Varies from shop to shop. You can visit them from 10 am. 
• What to buy :  Luxury shopping from renowned brands

17. Clarke Quay

The Clarke Quay and Riverside area is a popular tourist destination in the city for good reasons. While it’s widely known for its diverse range of restaurants, bars, and clubs, it also offers several malls and boutiques that cater to the needs of all kinds of shoppers. 

Clarke Quay and Riverside Point have shopping shops. Apart from that, there are also malls nearby to shop. So this includes Clarke Quay Central, Funan DigitalLife Mall, etc. 

You can shop for clothes, homeware, accessories, electronics and souvenirs. You need to explore the shops and then shop for your needs.

• Location : 3 River Valley Rd, Singapore 179024
• Timings : Varies from shop to shop. You can visit them from 10 am to 11 pm. 
• What to buy :  Clothes, homeware, accessories, and souvenirs

18. Holland Village

Holland Village used to house British Army personnel and their families. The European influence on its architecture is still evident in the charming shophouses and low-rise buildings that remain today.

You can visit the Holland Village Shopping Centre when shopping in Singapore in the Holland Village area. This centre offers retail and grocery shopping, banks, and more. Here, you can shop for carpets, antiques, furniture, arts and crafts, fashion, and footwear. 

Also, you can find Asian-influenced furnishings, exotic homeware, and accessories. Get some souvenirs, too, if you are looking for one. 

• Location : 211 Holland Ave, Singapore 278967, Singapore
• Timings : 10.30 am to 9 pm
• What to buy : Asian-influenced pieces

19. Mustafa Center Singapore

Are you looking for a one-of-a-kind shopping experience in Singapore? Look no further than Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour market-style mall offering a wide range of products at affordable prices. There’s something for everyone here, from designer textiles to watches and electronics. The mall is a combination of two department stores, with products organized by type and sold under the Mustafa name.

One of the standout features of Mustafa Centre is its impressive jewellery selection, where you can find affordable gold pieces. Additionally, the centre is a great place to pick up unique Asian-inspired gifts. Handmade accessories with an ethnic flair, including bags and costume jewellery, are also popular. Mustafa Centre offers you everything so you should go shopping in Singapore here. 

• Location : 145 Syed Alwi Rd, Mustafa Centre, Singapore 207704
• What to buy : Apparel, electronics, watches, gold jewellery 

20. Tiong Bahru

When you visit Tiong Bahru, the oldest housing estate in Singapore, you’ll be struck by the fascinating blend of old and new in this charming community. Whether you’re looking for shopping, dining, strolls, or adventurous activities, Tiong Bahru has something to offer every traveller.

Fashion boutique DGA Threads is a haven for apparel and accessories alike. Curated Records offers a selection of vinyl for all music lovers, from rare vintage LPs to mainstream hits. 

Nana & Bird is a well-known local brand with an exclusive store located in Tiong Bahru, offering a fantastic shopping experience. The cosy and vibrant shop offers trendy clothes, jewellery, accessories, and footwear for women and young children. It’s a great place to find stylish items. Tiong Bahru Plaza offers everything from shopping to dining options. 

• Location : 300 Tiong Bahru Road, Singapore 168731
• Timings : 8 am to 12 am; differs from shop to shop
• What to buy : Trendy apparel, accessories, jewellery, shoes, etc.

Tips For Shopping In Singapore

A few essential things to keep in mind while shopping are:

• Carry an umbrella as it rains, or protect yourself from the sun.
• Ensure that you remain hydrated throughout your shopping.
• Buy electronics from reputed stores only.
• Don’t miss out on the shops in Changi Airport, too, as you can find liquors, beauty products, apparel and much more.
• Have plenty of time when you start shopping to explore every shop well.
• Don’t miss out on the cultural districts of Singapore, like Little India, Chinatown, etc, during your shopping time.
• Also, plan your trip for major events and sales.

So here are the best places to go shopping in Singapore. Also, we have listed what to shop in Singapore from the famous shopping places. Shopping in Singapore offers a range of experiences, and you can shop for luxury brands, jewellery, cheap and affordable souvenirs, and other edibles worth returning home. If you plan to visit Singapore, check out the best Singapore Cruise packages from Roaming Routes. 

Shopping in Singapore also brings you close to the diverse culture of Lion City and how we can forget the food options here! So, when planning your Singapore holiday, don’t skip shopping! Even after a day of exploring, Mustafa Center is open 24 hours a day if you wish to shop. Let’s plan your Singapore vacation with Roaming Routes and explore what Singapore has, apart from its well-known destinations and landmarks. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q-1. What are the Top Places to go shopping in Singapore?

• IOB Orchard
• Mustafa Centre

Q-2. What are the operating hours of shops in Singapore?

Most shops in Singapore are open from 9 AM to 10 PM every day. Some shopping centres are open till 11 PM.

Q-3. What payment options are available in Singapore?

One can use credit cards or Singapore dollars to pay in Singapore. Indians can use MasterCard or Visa cards to withdraw money from ATMs in Singapore.

Q-4. Which is the Best Shopping Mall in Singapore?

Vivo City is the best shopping mall in Singapore, where you can find everything you need.

Q-5. What are the famous things to buy in Singapore?

• Merlion Souvenirs
• Orchid perfumes
• Peranakan Porcelain
• Laksa Paste
• Coconut Jam
• Orchid Ornaments
• Singapore Sling

Hello, I’m Anurag Kothari

We believe that the best holidays are those that are tailored to your dreams and your budget. Our team of specialists led by Anurag Kothari has over 10 years experience in creating (comfortable) custom and holiday packages for families, couples, professional

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23 Best Things to Do in Singapore

By Ashlea Halpern

It may be the one of the most expensive cities in the world , but Singapore has racked up plenty of other superlatives: cleanest, best planned, and, quite possibly, most entertaining. The Lion City is home to the largest rooftop infinity pool, the world's first safari park for nocturnal animals, centuries-old temples and, of course, some of the best food on the planet. You'll also find extraordinary gardens, impressive architecture, world-class performance venues, and shopping streets. The city-state offers a fascinating melding of the old and new, the historic and the modern. Since the pandemic, most of the attractions have reopened safely, adhering to Singapore’s safe management measures and SG Clean certification guidelines . Read on for our picks of the best things to do in Singapore. 

Click the link to read our complete Singapore guide .

Gardens By the Bay Arrow

This is a hugely popular tourist attraction in Singapore, and rightly so. The breadth of plants and the creative ways in which they're displayed is awe-inspiring. In one part of the conservatory, the Cloud Forest mimics the cool-moist ecology of the tropical highlands. It has a treetop walk and an oft-photographed indoor 114-foot waterfall. 

National Gallery Singapore Arrow

With more than 9,000 works, National Gallery Singapore owns the largest public collection of modern art in Southeast Asia. It's spread across two beautiful national monuments: City Hall and the country’s former Supreme Court. Some visitors spend half a day (or more) wandering the museum’s many galleries. If you're looking to avoid lines, consider going on a weekday and buying your tickets in advance online.

Kampong Glam Arrow

Are you a hipster? Or a devout Muslim? Do you like unconventional modern art or traditional Arab crafts? Do you just want that Instagram snap or are you interested in learning more about this historic district, from its red-light leanings to its religious importance? Or maybe you just want a slice of the delicious kaya swiss roll from the famous Rich & Good Cake Shop? If you answered yes to any of these things, this delightfully eclectic enclave is for you. Singapore's Muslim quarter dates back to the 1800s, but the area has grown and changed, blending the religious and historical with a modern take on the city-state.

Jewel Changi Airport Arrow

It might seem odd to tell travelers to hang out in an airport, but Jewel Changi is no ordinary airport (it's a fixture at the top of our Readers' Choice Awards best airport list ). The transportation hub is also a nature-themed shopping, dining, and entertainment extravaganza designed by architect Moshe Safdie. The project's highlights include the Rain Vortex, a seven-story-tall indoor waterfall; an indoor forest with suspended walkways; and nearly 300 stores. This is a game-changer for travelers on layovers. It's so popular (and so worth it) that 20 airlines will let you check in a full 24 hours in advance just to maximize your time inside.

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

CNT Editors

The Intan Arrow

The Intan is a private home that houses one of Singapore’s most impressive collections of Peranakan artifacts. Owner Alvin Yapp has spent 30-plus years collecting 1,500 objects from Peranakan culture, most notably kasut manek (ornate beaded slippers worn by Straits Chinese women) and enamel tiffin carriers hand-painted in delicate floral patterns. Yapp's post-war home is a labor of love, and it shows in the meticulous way that he has arranged every square inch of it. Visits are strictly by appointment only.

Pulau Ubin Arrow

This island was once known for its granite quarries. But when they closed down in the 1970s and jobs dwindled, residents began leaving. Today, the island is home to fewer than 50 people, who have chosen to stay for the old way of life. Which is exactly what people like visiting it for, too. Stepping onto Pulau Ubin is like time-traveling to the way Singapore was decades ago. Even getting to it is old-fashioned: You take a 10-minute ride on a chugging bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal. This is a rich experience even for those who are cash-poor, and the perfect day trip for those looking to see a different time in Singapore's history or experience its wild side.

Merlion Park Arrow

This promenade overlooking Marina Bay is home to Singapore's iconic 28-foot Merlion statue, a half-fish, half-lion stone carving that shoots water into the bay. The fish symbolizes Singapore's beginnings as a fishing village while the lion head is a nod to Singapura, which means "Lion City" in Malay. Erected in 1972, it remains one of the nation's most popular tourist attractions, so plan accordingly.

Marina Bay Sands Arrow

This one's for ballers: If you have cash to splash, you can do everything from have a meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant to check out the view from the SkyPark. The massive Moshe Safdie-designed mall, casino, convention center, and hotel is perhaps Singapore's most iconic building. A must-visit is the ArtScience Museum, Singapore's most future-forward, and the 57-story-high SkyPark, Singapore's best.

Haw Par Villa Arrow

Forget manicured or wild, this eight-acre outdoor art park is bizarre but a feast for the eyes. It was set up in the 1930s—before the advent of TV and the Internet—by Tiger Balm founder and philanthropist Aw Boon Haw, who commissioned more than 1,000 detailed sculptures and dioramas that would teach traditional Chinese values. Back then, it was popular and crowded, but has become less so over the years. And though it's lost a bit of its luster, that only lends to its charm and 'raw' feel—what you get here is an unfiltered, in-your-face lesson on Chinese morals and culture that doesn't sit behind velvet ropes or glass panels, and isn't crawling with tourists. Also of note: This "Asian cultural park" claims to be the last of its kind in the world, though it's hard to imagine there were many like this to begin with. 

St. Andrew's Cathedral Arrow

You can't miss this giant, wedding-cake-like monument in the middle of Singapore's Civic District—it's one of the oldest buildings in the area and perhaps the most imposing, with its Neo Gothic design topped with a minimalist spire. Park grounds surround the structure so it stands out as a sanctuary in the midst of a busy urban area. This is Singapore's largest cathedral and also its oldest Anglican house of worship. It's a gem for history, culture, and architecture buffs.

Thian Hock Keng Arrow

Thian Hock Keng Temple, a.k.a. Tianfu Temple, is Singapore’s oldest Buddhist temple. The elaborate architecture, done up in the traditional southern Chinese style, was built without using a single nail. Now fully restored, it's a feast for the eyes with its dragon and phoenix sculptures and Fujian-style broken porcelain roof ridges. Photos aren't allowed in most parts of the temple, and you'll likely get caught if you try to snap one. So you'll have to just keep those memories with you. If you can't keep your camera in your purse, don't go. This is not a selfie op. Admission is free, but it still never gets too crowded.

Sentosa Arrow

Sentosa is a 1,236-acre island resort off the southern coast of Singapore that's home to major tourist attractions like Universal Studios Singapore and the S.E.A. Aquarium. Singaporeans and international travelers also flock here to hang out on the beaches, zip line at Mega Adventure Park, shop at the massive Luxury Fashion Galleria, and more. Golf is a big deal here, too—the Sentosa Golf Club has two award-winning courses. In short, the island is a tourism machine, fine-tuned to appeal to a broad range of people—except those seeking an off-the-beaten-path vacation.

The Southern Ridges Arrow

The Southern Ridges is a 6.2-mile recreational trail that connects five parks along the southern ridge of Singapore—Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill, HortPark, Kent Ridge Park, and Labrador Nature Reserve. Like everything in Singapore, it's well-constructed and manicured. The landscape varies between jungle-like canopies of trees, unusual flora and fauna, and architecturally magnificent walkways. If you aren't up for the full five plus miles make sure you get to Henderson Waves, a timber deck lofted 256 feet in the air. It's the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore and beloved by photographers for its undulating curves.

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Arrow

This sanctuary for flora and fauna—an ASEAN Heritage Park—is as wild as it gets in manicured Singapore. The 500 acres of land is made up of mangroves, mudflats, ponds, and forests that are home to a biodiverse ecosystem of mudskippers, crabs, water snakes, monitor lizards, otters, and the odd crocodile. It's also a spot for birders —an internationally recognized site of importance for migratory birds and is part of the East Asian Australasian Shorebird Site Network. But despite how untouched it is, the trails are quite flat and the whole place is fairly easy to navigate.

East Coast Road Arrow

There's perhaps no better place to get a taste of Singapore—literally and figuratively—than by strolling through the East Coast Road enclave. Along this lively two mile stretch (one of Singapore's earliest delineated roads), colorful heritage shophouses sit shoulder to shoulder, forming a personality-packed backdrop for photos. Even better: They house some of the island's best eateries , including 328 Katong Laksa for its namesake dish, plus a handful of museums and stores showcasing the Peranakan—or Straits Chinese—culture that forms a large part of the local identity. The area is also a stone's throw from East Coast Park, where you can have a seaside stroll to counter the calories you'll inevitably consume along the way.

Singapore Botanic Gardens Arrow

This UNESCO World Heritage site is carved into three main areas, or "cores." The Tanglin core is the oldest and the one visitors see first as they pass through the historic Tanglin Gate. The Tyersall-Gallop core is integrated into the park’s existing rainforest and the Bukit Timah core is home to a children's garden complete with treehouses, a suspension bridge, and farm. Visit the National Orchid Garden to see more than 1,000 species of orchids and 2,000 hybrids on display.

Night Safari Arrow

This is the world's first safari park for nocturnal animals and a wildly popular one at that. It's operated by the same group that runs the equally popular Singapore Zoo. The 86-acre reserve houses some 2,500 animals from 130 species, more than a third of which are endangered. Guests ride around the park on complimentary guided trams. The tour itself takes about 40 minutes and covers seven themed geographic areas, but specific animal sightings are never guaranteed. On the weekend and with advance booking, you can observe live tiger feedings. If you have the ability to walk some of the trails, do it. It'll get you away from the tourist scrum and you're more likely to encounter reserved animals.

Clarke Quay Arrow

In the 1800s, this quay, or wharf, near modern-day Fort Canning Park , was one of the centers of trade, when barges would transport goods upstream for storage in the warehouses. Today, the warehouses have been restored and painted in rainbow hues, making this a great photo spot. Instagram-worthiness aside, Clarke Quay has also become one of Singapore's food, drink, and entertainment hubs. The whole area has been converted into an open-air pedestrian precinct filled with restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay Arrow

The premier art venue in Singapore, the Esplanade is home to multiple performance spaces, including a stunning state-of-the-art concert hall, a horseshoe-shaped theater with an orchestra pit, a more intimate recital studio for chamber music and jazz concerts, an outdoor theater, and an open-air concert space. The building is an architectural marvel (it's the face of Singapore’s five-cent coins). The dome's spiky exterior has earned it the nickname “durian” in reference to the sometimes-polarizing Southeast Asian fruit. Anyone who loves architecture should swing by for a photo op.

Old Airport Road Food Centre Arrow

At more than 40 years old, Old Airport Road Food Centre is one of Singapore's best-loved hawker complexes , with 150 stalls spread across a single floor in neat rows. It can seem daunting, but as a general rule, a long line in front of a stall means excellent food. And while it can be quite a wait, food-obsessed Singaporeans will assure you that it's totally worth it. Dishes that demand your patience here include hokkien mee (fried yellow wheat noodles doused in a seafood stock and studded with prawns and pork) from Nam Sing Hokkien Mee, and silky beancurd pudding from Lao Ban Soya Beancurd.

Mint Museum of Toys Arrow

The main reason people come to MINT is to see the private collection of toys, which includes more than 50,000 items (around 8,000 of which are on display) hailing from 40 countries and dating as far back as the 1840s. Beyond the toys, the permanent collection includes two galleries devoted to vintage enamel signs. The museum is rarely crowded, unless there is a special event going on. The collection itself is impressive, but some of the exhibits are too darkly lit and obscurem making this is a better stop for those with niche knowledge. 

Sifr Aromatics Arrow

This one-of-a-kind, independently owned fragrance shop in Singapore's Kampong Glam neighborhood feels like a secret you want to keep to yourself. Owner Johari Kazura is a third-generation perfumer, but his approach to scents is more novel—and infinitely customizable. Several dozen perfumes and colognes are pre-made and part of his regular stable; others are mixed-to-order based on a customer's personal preferences. If you want a custom-blended scent, book a reservation in advance and block out at least 90 minutes for the session. (It's an excellent gift idea, too.)

Singapore Art Museum Arrow

SAM specializes in contemporary art from Singapore and Southeast Asia. When it opened in 1996 in a restored 19th-century Catholic boys school, it was the first art museum in the country. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in works by contemporary Asian artists. The collection covers multiple disciplines, including painting, photography, video, and sculpture.

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Where To Go Shopping In Singapore

- This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure.

A small country just south of Malaysia, you’d be forgiven for thinking that shopping opportunities were thin on the ground in Singapore. On the contrary, Singapore is a spectacularly modern country, bordering on futuristic, with sleek architecture, contemporary neighbourhoods and almost too many shopping opportunities. 

Naturally, visitors to Singapore can find shiny malls filled with classic high street brands and luxury designers, but you’ll also find centres dedicated to cutting-edge technology, arts and culture and local makers.

The rich blend of cultures brought by Singapore’s residents, who hail from Malaysia and India to Dubai and Australia, mean districts like Little India and the Arab Quarter offer more shopping opportunities in one-off boutiques, fresh produce markets and bustling bazaars. 

Design Orchard

2- the shoppes at marina bay, 3- chinatown, 4- little india, 5- vivocity, 6- arab quarter, 7- clarke quay, 9- bugis street market, 10- city plaza, 11- scape underground, 12- tanglin mall bazaar, 41- mustafa centre, 15- holland village, 16- the star vista, 17- queensway shopping centre, 18- changi airport, singapore shopping.

Take a break in between shopping and enjoy these top tours nearby:

• Singapore: Marina Bay Sands Observation Deck E-Ticket – take a break and enjoy the view while shopping. 
• Singapore River Cruise – admire the city skyline and rest your feet while shopping at Clarke Quay. 
• Singapore: Chinatown and Little India Guided Walking Tour – discover the hidden secrets of these cultural precincts. 

Stay in touch with friends and family by buying a Singapore Roaming Internet with eSIM Mobile Data

1- Orchard Road

This vibrant stretch of road is lined with an array of high-end luxury boutiques, department stores, and world-class malls.

From renowned international brands to local designers, Orchard Road offers a diverse range of fashion, accessories, electronics, and more.

Shoppers can explore famous malls like ION Orchard, Ngee Ann City, and Paragon, which house a mix of luxury and mainstream brands.

With its beautifully designed storefronts, dazzling lights, and bustling atmosphere, Orchard Road provides a captivating shopping experience.

Another luxe shopping mall on Orchard Road, Paragon, is a popular alternative to The Shoppes if you’re more Prada than Primark.

Expect the likes of Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Chloe, Dior and more here.

The sheer size of Paragon means there are hundreds of stores to explore, and so there are plenty of more affordable favourites in there as well – there’s even a Marks & Spencer.

There are also lots of upmarket Asian designers and high-end dining options, along with salons, galleries, lounges and coffee shops for when the luxury all gets too much.

The Paragon is at 290 Orchard Rd, Singapore.

Forget outlet malls and high street chains; head straight to Design Orchard for a truly Singaporean shopping experience.

A trendy, local hub selling homegrown products, it has a diverse range of shops run by local designers and artists.

The centre is run by a parent brand that shares knowledge of marketing, advertising and retail with the local creators to ensure they flourish here, and buying a few bits and bobs goes a long way to helping them thrive.

It’s not just clothing here either; discover great finds from interior designers, jewellery makers and painters too.

Top tip – there’s also a fab rooftop cafe with views directly over Orchard Road.

Design Orchard is at 250 Orchard Rd, Singapore.

Recommended hotels:

• Four Seasons Hotel Singapore – luxury
• YOTEL Singapore Orchard Road – midscale
• Metropolitan YMCA Singapore – budget

If you’re hunting for luxury, look no further than The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.

Anyone who’s anyone has seen the hotel above this mall, famous for its incredible rooftop pool that’s notoriously hard to access.

On the bottom floors, you’ll find the likes of Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Prada, along with culinary delights, from Michelin-star bites to artisan chocolate shops.

Not forgetting the mall’s homage to Las Vegas’ The Venetian for its stunning waterways running through the complex. You can book a sampan boat ride here. 

On top of this, there’s a theatre, cinema and if you can’t quite shell out for the hotel, catch skyline views from the observation deck instead.

The Shoppes at Marina Bay is at 8 Bayfront Ave, Singapore. Skip the line and book your observation deck ticket for a break between shopping. 

• Marina Bay Sands – luxury
• Ascott Raffles Place Singapore – midscale
• Hotel Telegraph – budget

Not all shopping is about clothes and shoes, so if you’d rather discover some truly local shopping, head to the thriving streets of Singapore’s Chinatown.

Singapore has a huge Chinese population and is where all the best restaurants, shops and markets live.

You can pick up everything from flavourful spices to traditional Chinese clothing, local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Even better, the food is some of the best in town; grab dim sum, noodles and other freshly made dishes for mere pennies – and certainly far less than you’d find at Singapore’s famously pricey restaurants.

Recommended tour: Chinatown and Little India Guided Walking Tour

• PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering, Singapore – luxury
• KeSa House, The Unlimited Collection by Oakwood – midscale
• Galaxy Pods @ Chinatown – budget

Little India didn’t acquire its unique name for no reason.

Far from just being home to a few Indian shops or cafes, Little India will transport you west and make you feel like you’re on the streets of Delhi or Jaipur.

This neighbourhood is particularly famous for its brightly coloured shophouses, hidden curry houses, all-day cafes and local shops.

Indian spices, fresh produce and traditional gifts are abundant, as are some stunning temples and Singapore’s best street art.

So what should you buy here?

Food should be your first port of call, and afterwards, pick up a traditional saree or even some gold, buy an offering to lay at a local temple or explore one of the many markets.

• Wanderlust, The Unlimited Collection by Oakwood
• Citadines Rochor

There’s only one way to explain VivoCity and that’s ‘adult playground’.

This is Singapore’s answer to shopping til you drop, with virtually endless stores selling everything under the sun.

You can exhaust yourself at all the most famous brands, from H&M and Zara to Dyson and Coach – you name it, they’ve got it.

This is where to stock up on products from fashion and sports to tech and toiletries.

Naturally, this can be a little exhausting, but unsurprisingly there’s also a cool Skypark, giant cinema and a massive food court for refuelling before round two.

VivoCity is at 1 HarbourFront Walk, Singapore.

On one side of Singapore’s cultural triangle is Little India, another is China, and the last is the Middle East.

Visiting the Arab Quarter is like stepping into a slice of Arabia, its spectacular Sultan Mosque glinting gold in the sunlight and the quaint streets lined with shops.

Along the main drag, you can find a variety of goods ranging from gold jewellery to pottery and souvenirs.

Venture deeper along the side streets, however, such as the bustling Haji Lane, and you’ll discover somewhere akin to the souks and bazaars of Morocco or Dubai.

Stores selling hand-woven carpets, colourful glowing lamps and intricately patterned headscarves are everywhere you look.

Combined with hole-in-the-wall bars, cafes and Arab eateries serving authentic cooking, this is an unmissable place to shop.

Clarke Quay was a low-key area filled with street food markets and great restaurants.

Now, it’s more commonly known for being at the centre of Singapore’s nightlife, bursting with bars, restaurants and clubs along the riverside that are buzzing all night.

Among these are some of Singapore’s best boutiques and galleries.

During the day, you can pick up affordable Asian-made clothing, discover local brands and artisans, browse artwork at some galleries or get your caffeine hit at one of many cool cafes.

Its central location is the beating heart of Singapore, and easy to reach from anywhere, plus, you’ll already be there when the bars start to come alive to enjoy a sundowner or a riverboat cruise. Skip the line and book your cruise here. 

• Paradox Singapore Merchant Court at Clarke Quay
• Holiday Inn Express Singapore Clarke Quay , an IHG Hotel

Forgot something essential for your trip, or can’t hack designer price tags?

Not to worry, IMM in Jurong is Singapore’s biggest outlet mall, where you’ll no doubt find a bargain or two to fit your budget.

IMM stands for International Merchandising Mall, and this massive complex has almost 300 shops to explore.

All your favourite brands, like Tommy Hilfiger, Birkenstock, Nike, Calvin Klein and dozens more, have shops here, meaning you can get great designer clothes, shoes and accessories at knockdown prices.

Not all shops are outlets – there are hundreds of normal shops here and more than 50 places to eat and drink.

Truly, it’s a day out all in itself, regardless of what you need!

IMM is at 2 Jurong East Street 21, Singapore.

Visiting Bugis Street is the only real way to explain Singapore’s most famous shopping street-slash-complex.

Part flea market, part mall, head to Bugis for a bustling, chaotic market where you can buy anything under the sun.

Thousands of souvenirs can be found here, so it’s great for picking up presents to take home, but it also sells clothes, bags, shoes, tech, beauty products and more, mostly at unbelievably low prices.

Try haggling and you may get even more of a bargain.

It would take days to check out the more than 800 stalls here, but after making a go of it, don’t miss visiting the equally impressive array of food stands for local street food, snacks and drinks for just a few dollars each. 

Recommended tour: Singapore: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour – get off your feet and let the bus whip you around Singapore. 

City Plaza is ideal for an authentic Singapore shopping experience, with it being the country’s oldest mall.

It’s great for buying everything vintage, from clothes and shoes to cameras, watches and handbags.

You won’t find too many mainstream brands here, instead, there are hundreds of singular local shops that sell either their own label clothes at great prices or re-sell preloved fashion.

Many also sell wholesale to bigger shops, so you can generally find great bargains here if you want to pick up new threads.

The five floors can take a while to work through, but the mall’s central food court has a variety of local eateries which serve huge portions at affordable prices.

City Plaza is at 810 Geylang Rd, Singapore.

This is a particularly good place to shop, because SCAPE is Singapore’s youth-uplift concept.

All of the shops here are run by young people, who are encouraged by the government to produce individual, creative designs, products, artwork and more.

And unsurprisingly for a place based around youth, all prices are student-friendly, so it’s popular for bagging a bargain.

The shops here stock clothes, accessories, shoes, tech, gifts, souvenirs and more, ranging from classic reproduced designs to cool one-off pieces – do some exploring and you might find something special.

Scape Underground is at 2 Orchard Link, Singapore.

Although Singapore is home to several different bazaars, the Tanglin Mall Bazaar is particularly loved due to its range of vintage products.

Like any good bazaar, you can visit dozens of shops here selling handmade products, homewares, souvenirs, clothes and more.

However, most notably, the mall also sells great vintage clothing, along with old-school tech like vinyl, record players, CDs and more.

Also an affordable spot to grab a bite, Tanglin Mall has a refreshing array of international food options, whether you’re craving a bagel or Chinese food.

Tanglin Mall Bazaar is at 163 Tanglin Road, Singapore.

A mall that has undergone a full facelift, Funan has had a massive renovation to showcase almost 200 brands now.

Based on the themes of live, work and play, the mall is a futuristic place to shop or have fun.

Aside from the local and international brands, it’s home to a strange array of unique features, such as a giant living wall, a rooftop urban farm and the ‘Tree of Life’.

Don’t think shopping is all you can do here either, as Funan also now includes a huge multiplex cinema for catching the latest blockbuster, plus a boutique fitness centre complete with a pool.

Funan is at 107 North Bridge Rd, Singapore.

Although we’ve already mentioned Little India, this district’s biggest shopping centre deserves its own visit.

The Mustafa Centre is Little India’s main shopping complex, open 24-7, so there’s no excuse not to check it out.

The clothing here is a particular highlight, where everything from branded pieces to more traditional and unique clothing can be found at low prices.

Being Little India however, you can also find a wide array of products like fresh food, spices, tech, shoes, sportswear, fabric, gold and cosmetics – if you’re in desperate need of something, there’s a good chance you’ll find it here.

Unlike many other markets, there’s a no haggling rule here – but the prices are so low you won’t need to!

Mustafa Centre is at 145 Syed Alwi Rd, Mustafa Centre, Singapore.

Holland Village is an entire district in Singapore, previously home to British Army personnel many years ago.

It has been redeveloped into one of the country’s best shopping, dining and entertainment neighbourhoods.

Home to classic, beautiful architecture, the area houses an eclectic mix of old-school shops, such as the Thambi Magazine Store, open since the 1940s, and contemporary shops, cafes and galleries in the Chip Bee Gardens.

For slightly more luxury, also in Holland Village is the Raffles Holland V shopping mall, which also happens to hide one of Singapore’s best artisanal food courts – think less hawker centre, more Harrods, serving fresh cheeses and charcuterie flown in directly from Australia, Japan and the US.

The Star Vista is one place you can’t miss when shopping in Singapore; you don’t even need to shop to enjoy it.

A super contemporary architectural complex, it has a dizzying array of shops, restaurants, bars, cafes and more to explore.

Moreover, it has its own 5,000-seat auditorium where you can watch concerts, shows and events.

You can enjoy a plethora of cool experiences here, such as ‘mall workouts’ like kickboxing and Zumba classes, and chow down on almost any cuisine you can think of, from Japanese to Mexican.

For music enthusiasts, it’s also home to Asia’s most renowned music store, Swee Lee, which sells every instrument from Gibson, Fender, Bose and Ibanez.

The Star Vista is at 1 Vista Exchange Green, Singapore.

Located in Queenstown, the Queensway Shopping Centre is a one-stop shop for buying sportswear, from trainers to running shorts.

There is a big mix of well-known and local shops here, and although there’s a high concentration of sportswear brands, you can pretty much find a little bit of everything.

Aside from stocking up on vests, swimsuits and sports gear, more unusual products like musical instruments and tailor-made suits can be found, along with a surprising amount of barber shops, optometrists and watch shops.

Essentially, it’s a very Singaporean shopping mall that’s worth stopping by for the experience.

Queensway Shopping Centre is at 1 Queensway, Singapore.

The uninitiated may be confused as to why an airport would be on a list of best places to shop, but for those lucky enough to even have a layover at Changi, you’ll already know what it hides.

Changi Airport is consistently voted one of the best in the world.

Within its five terminals are a giant waterfall, rainforest, sky walkway, butterfly garden, modern art installations, a cinema, kid’s areas and even a rooftop pool.

The crown jewel (so to speak) is its main shopping terminal, Jewel, which is home to floor upon floor of designer and high street shops, classic restaurants and other fun activities.

Almost every brand, from favourites like Mango to luxury names like Dior, has an outlet here, all surrounding the central waterfall.

Whether you’ve arrived early for your flight, are waiting to check in or ‘accidentally’ missed one, what better way to kill time than shopping in such an epic location?

Recommended: Jewel Changi Airport: Canopy Park Admission Ticket

• Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, an IHG Hotel
• YOTELAIR Singapore Changi Airport Landside
• Park Avenue Changi
• 20 Famous Landmarks In Singapore
• 20 Incredible Places To Visit In Singapore
• Best Time To Visit Singapore
• Scoot Airlines Review
• Singapore Airlines vs Scoot Airlines
• 15 Things To Do In Changi Airport
• Fullerton Bay Hotel Review
• Where To Find The Best Singapore Street Noodles
• 20 Bars In Singapore You Will Love
• 20 Things To Do In Singapore At Night
• Where To Stay In Singapore
• 20 Singapore Museums
• 13 Beaches In Singapore
• 18 Places To Go Shopping In Singapore
• 15 Things Singapore Is Famous For

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20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Singapore

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Singapore has been described as a playground for the rich, and it's true that the small city-state does have a certain sheen of wealth. But Singapore offers more than just high-end shopping malls, luxury hotels, and fine dining (though it's worth indulging in those a bit if you can). There is also a vibrant history and diverse ethnic quarters to discover, along with many family-friendly attractions and lovely public spaces that make exploring this slightly futuristic city worthwhile.

Singapore has an excellent public transportation system that makes sightseeing convenient and easy. Once you've gotten a sense of the metro map, you'll have no problem zipping from one part of town to the next. English is spoken everywhere, and signs are in English as well. In fact, Singapore is one of the easiest and most comfortable countries to navigate in Southeast Asia. And as long as you're not comparing prices to nearby Thailand or Vietnam, you're in for a lovely stay.

For ideas on things to see and do, read our list of the top attractions in Singapore.

1. Marina Bay Sands

2. gardens by the bay, 3. botanic gardens, 4. singapore zoo, 5. orchard road, 6. singapore flyer, 7. raffles hotel singapore, 8. chinatown, 9. sentosa island, 10. clarke quay, 11. universal studios singapore, 12. night safari singapore, 13. merlion park, 14. asian civilizations museum, 15. pulau ubin (granite island), 16. fort canning park, 17. the maritime experiential museum, 18. fort siloso, 19. national gallery singapore, 20. jewel changi airport, singapore - climate chart, easy places to visit from singapore.

The opulent Marina Bay Sands resort complex includes a high-end luxury hotel , a mall with a canal running through it, the ArtScience Museum , and the Marina Bay Sands Skypark Observation Deck –a vantage point for taking in the entire city. The Skypark's viewing deck and infinity pool are found in the ship (yes, ship) that tops the hotel. Only hotel guests are allowed to use the infinity pool, but anyone can visit the observation deck.

From the Skypark, you can see the innovative double helix bridge , the port, the Gardens by the Bay (101 hectares of land converted into waterfront gardens), and the impressive skyline.

While up there on top of the city, guests can grab a snack or a coffee at the rooftop restaurant or pick up some keepsakes from the souvenir stand. You can purchase a photo of yourself green-screened in front of the massive hotel as it's all lit up at night, but the cost is steep at 50 Singapore dollars–better to ask a fellow tourist to snap a photo of you if possible. The elegant opulence of the Marina Bay Sands exemplifies Singapore's style and status as a major international city in Southeast Asia.

Address: 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore

Official site: http://www.marinabaysands.com/

Once you've glimpsed this beautifully designed green space (from the top of the Marina Bay Sands, perhaps) you won't be able to stay away. Wander through the Bay East Garden , perfect for enjoying the vibrant plant life and escaping the city bustle for a moment.

You won't want to miss Supertree Grove , where you'll find a cluster of the iconic, futuristic structures designed to perform environmentally sustainable functions. Then, head to the Cloud Forest Dome to see the world's tallest indoor waterfall and learn a bit about biodiversity. Check the website for ticket sale prices and tour times.

Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore

Official site: http://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/en.html

Not to be confused with the Gardens on the Bay , the Botanic Gardens are also worth a visit. Singapore received its first UNESCO World Heritage nomination for its botanical gardens, and with good reason. The city can sometimes feel like a concrete jungle, albeit a clean and comfortable one, but the botanic gardens preserve pieces of Singapore's wilder heritage.

Here, a walking trail leads to the gardens' heritage trees, which are conserved as part of an effort to protect the city's mature tree species. Make sure to visit the impressive National Orchid Garden as well.

Other popular things to do include visiting the eco-garden, eco-lake, bonsai garden, sculptures, and several other formal gardens.

Address: 1 Cluny Road, Singapore

Official site: www.nparks.gov.sg/sbg

Billing itself as the world's best rainforest zoo, the Singapore Zoo is a pretty impressive place. The facility is clean and inviting, and the animals appear well treated, with plenty of lush vegetation and habitat space.

The orangutans are particularly impressive, and visitors can watch as babies and adults alike swing high above their platforms and snack on fruits. There is also a large chimpanzee family, zebras, meerkats, a komodo dragon, mole rats, white tigers, kangaroos, and many other creatures.

Guests can observe feedings for some of the animals. Allow at least three hours to make your way around the zoo.

If the zoo doesn't satisfy your need for getting close to wildlife, there's also the Night Safari , River Safari (including a giant panda forest), and the Jurong Bird Park . Park hopper passes are available if you plan to visit more than one of the wildlife parks.

For a unique and personal wildlife experience, try the Singapore Zoo Breakfast with the Orangutans. This hassle-free tour includes transportation from and to your hotel, allows you half day to explore the zoo, and has an optional upgrade to enjoy breakfast in the company of the zoo's much-loved orangutans.

Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore

Official site: www.wrs.com.sg/en/singapore-zoo

One could be forgiven for coming to Singapore and doing nothing but shopping, as this is a world-class city for style and designer chic. The Orchard Road area is a great place to start a shopping spree, as there are high-end stores at every turn. You'd expect nothing less from a neighborhood that boasts 22 malls and six department stores. There are also four movie theaters, including an IMAX cinema, and a KTV karaoke establishment.

If you get hungry while burning through all that cash, there are plenty of eateries in the neighborhood serving international food.

Official site: http://www.orchardroad.org/

If the observation deck at the Marina Bay Sands doesn't quite do it for you, try taking in high tea while looking out over the city from the Singapore Flyer, the world's largest giant observation wheel. Choose from several different packages that allow you to be served and pampered while enjoying a view that encompasses not only the Singapore skyline but as far away as the Spice Islands of Indonesia and Malaysia's Straits of Johor.

There are several different ticket packages to choose from, and each includes access to the multimedia Journey of Dreams exhibit, which delves into Singapore's history and the creation of the Singapore Flyer.

Flights last 30 minutes and run from early morning until late at night, so you can choose which view of the city you want to enjoy: the beginning of another bustling day or when Singapore is aglow after dark.

Address: 30 Raffles Ave, Singapore

Official site: www.singaporeflyer.com

This colonial building is one of the world's last grand 19th-century hotels, once visited by literary luminaries such as Rudyard Kipling and Joseph Conrad, as well as movie star Charlie Chaplin.

Built in 1887, the property has served as a city landmark for well over a century and continues to live up to its tony reputation with excellent food and service. The classical architecture and tropical gardens provide a refined setting and represent another facet of Singapore's varied and rich history.

The Raffles Hotel Singapore is located in the city's Colonial District , which is also home to several other historic sites, and a good place to base yourself in the city. Here, you'll find the Raffles Landing Site , where Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of Singapore, is said to have stepped ashore in 1819. The story has it that he saw the small fishing village but recognized its potential as a port, so he purchased the land from the Sultan of Johor and invited Chinese and Indian immigrants to move here. And so the seeds of Singapore's multi-ethnic identity were sown.

Address: 1 Beach Road, Singapore

Official site: www.raffles.com/singapore

If you've ever visited China, Singapore's Chinatown neighborhood will bring you right back here. From the small mom-and-pop stores and authentic Chinese food to the bright red lanterns, there's excitement and hustle in this district. You can visit the Chinese Heritage Centre and see the impressive and beautiful Sri Mariamman Hindu temple.

Another temple worth seeing is the Buddha Tooth Relic temple. If you're up early enough (think 4am), you can hear the morning drum ceremony. Or you can just check out the closing ceremony in the evening after viewing the relic.

Heritage markers have been installed throughout the neighborhood in English, Japanese, and simplified Chinese, so visitors can better understand the significance of the area. But this neighborhood is not just a testament to the influence of the Chinese throughout Singapore's past. This is a progressive neighborhood (with free Wi-Fi for all), and it's home to the trendy Ann Siang Hill area, where the quaint bistros and upscale boutiques could be at home in any Western city.

Official site: www.chinatown.sg

Singapore isn't exactly known as a beach destination, but if you're really craving some fun in the sun, Sentosa Island is the place to find it. Siloso Beach is a good spot for getting in beach time, and visitors can play volleyball on free courts or go kayaking and skimboarding. There are several other beach attractions as well, plus an Underwater World aquarium, where you can swim with dolphins.

A must-see on Sentosa Island is the Merlion , Singapore's famous statue that has the head of a lion and the body of a fish. You can take an escalator to the top of the statue and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. Adventurous types will want to check out The Flying Trapeze and the SeaBreeze Water-Sports @ Wave House, where you can try your hand at flying strapped to a water-propelled jet pack.

Official site: www.sentosa.com.sg/en

The "center of commerce during the 19th century," Clarke Quay lives up to its legacy as a busy hub. Today, it has a more polished sheen, so after a long day of shopping on Orchard Road, visitors can happily head to Clarke Quay for an evening of waterfront dining and entertainment.

River taxis and cruises also depart from here, giving tourists the chance to admire some of the city's historic bridges and view landmarks like the Merlion from the water. The Quay's biggest hit with younger tourists is a giant bungee-jumping attraction , an adrenaline-packed thrill ride.

Nearby attractions include the Asian Civilisation Museum ; the Civil Defence Heritage Gallery located in Singapore's oldest fire station; and the Hong San See Temple , a picturesque century-old Buddhist place of worship.

Universal Studios Singapore occupies 49 acres of Resorts World Sentosa. The park is arranged thematically, with each area paying tribute to a location, film, or television show. Destinations include New York City, Hollywood, Madagascar, and a trip back to Ancient Egypt. Fiction-themed areas include Shrek's Far Far Away, Lost World, and Sci-Fi City, where Battlestar Galactica -themed dueling roller coasters and an indoor dark coaster, Revenge of the Mummy , dominate the thrill rides.

In addition to the many rides–that range from kiddie-friendly to daredevil –the park also has diverse dining options, shopping, and live shows throughout the day and night.

Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore

Night Safari Singapore puts a new twist on the traditional zoo experience by introducing visitors to the nocturnal lives of the residents. The park's habitats are divided into four sections, each with its own trail that lets you observe these elusive creatures as they go about their "day."

The Leopard Trail has, as expected, leopards, as well as lions, flying foxes, civets, and porcupines among other animals. The Fishing Cat Trail tours the habitat of animals native to Singapore, including the fish-loving felines, pangolin, binturong, and other species both common and endangered. East Lodge Trail features Malayan tigers and spotted hyenas, and the Wallaby Trail introduces visitors to the marsupials of Australia.

Private tours, buggy rides, and educational sessions are available, as well as once-in-a-lifetime experiences, such as an Asian elephant feeding session.

Official site: www.wrs.com.sg/en/night-safari

Singapore's Merlion is just what it sounds like–the figure of a mythical creature that has the head of a lion and the body and tail of a fish. The Merlion represents the city's humble start as a fishing village combined with its traditional Malay name Singapura, "lion city."

The structure, which was relocated to Merlion Park in 2002, where it can overlook Marina Bay , weighs 70 tonnes and stands at 8.6 meters tall, spouting water from its mouth in a fountain.

The "Merlion Cub" sits nearby, only two meters tall but a hefty three tonnes, and there are five additional official Merlion statues throughout the city. Merlion Park is an ideal spot for photo-ops, whether you are taking a selfie in front of the iconic creature or capturing the magnificent views from the park as it looks out over the bay.

Address: One Fullerton, Singapore

If the Raffles Hotel and Fort Canning Park haven't satisfied your taste for colonial architecture, pay a visit to the Empress Place Building . It was constructed in 1865 and built in the Neoclassical style, and was named in honor of Queen Victoria. It now houses the Asian Civilisations Museum, which delves into the many Asian cultures that helped form Singapore.

The museum's collections focus on the themes of trade and spirituality, both of which heavily influenced Asian cultures. Exhibits cover topics such as the Indian Ocean trade, stories of faith and belief, and a look at the important role that scholars played in Chinese culture for centuries.

Address: 1 Empress Pl, Singapore

Official site: http://acm.org.sg

For a look at what life in Singapore was like before it was all about glamor and skyscrapers, visit the small island of Pulau Ubin, where fewer than 100 people still live in the same simple way as they did in the 1960s. The island's name is Malay for "Granite Island," a moniker given due to its past prominence as a quarry town.

Today, it is a peaceful, rustic place where tourists can enjoy unspoiled forests and diverse wildlife. The island is also home to the Chek Jawa Wetlands , which contain a coral reef teeming with sea life.

The island is easily reached by boat, a 10-minute ride that departs from Changi Point Ferry Terminal .

As military strongholds go, Fort Canning has had a long and varied life. Built in 1859, the fort was originally meant to defend Singapore against attacks but it became a bunker during World War II and was eventually surrendered to the Japanese in 1942.

Now in peacetime, the original building is home to modern performing arts troupes, and the park regularly sees picnics, concerts, theater performances, and festivals.

Other attractions at the park include relics from Singapore's early history, from as far back as the 14th century, and Sir Stamford Raffles' personal bungalow. Guests can also see a replica of the spice market Raffles established in 1822, as well as ASEAN sculptures that were erected in the 1980s.

Address: 51 Canning Rise, Singapore

This indoor-outdoor museum is located right on the water, and it's a great way to explore Singapore's maritime history through fun, interactive exhibits. Before you even enter the building, you'll be able to see several ships anchored here.

Inside, the highlight of the museum is the Jewel of Muscat, a replica of a sailing vessel that sank in 830 CE while traveling between Africa and China. You can also see large-size models of trading ships that traveled the Silk Route, learn navigation skills and how to read nautical charts, and experience a 9th-century shipwreck at Typhoon Theater in a special-effects simulation.

Fort Siloso, the country's only preserved fort and a military museum, is located on Sentosa Island. You can reach the fort via the Fort Siloso Skywalk trail , a massive steel bridge towering 11 stories up. Surrounded by lush tropical canopy, the bridge is accessed by either a glass elevator or simple stairs–though taking the elevator means sweeping open views of the Keppel Harbor, which you can't really see if you choose to walk your way up. The 181-meter-long bridge offers great views of the nearby islands, as well as the jungle floor below.

Once at the fort, visitors can join guided tours to learn more about the history of the area–although it's also possible to explore on your own, just walking around and seeing the sights.

Highlights inside the fort include the many massive cannons on display, three tunnel systems used to move ammunition around, and special exhibits showcasing daily life in the fort for the soldiers living there in the 1800s.

The entire fort is a beautiful shaded park, where you can spend a couple of hours exploring.

Address: Siloso Road, Singapore

Official site: http://www.fortsiloso.com/

Home to the largest modern art collection in Southeast Asia, the National Gallery mostly focuses on the works of local and Asian artists starting in the 19 th century. The 9,000-plus works of art are divided between two buildings – City Hall and the former Supreme Court – over more than 64,000 square meters.

In addition to the permanent collection, the gallery hosts temporary exhibits in unique aspects such as Vietnamese lacquer painting, modern photography, and Chinese calligraphy.

Free tours are available in English and Mandarin, and the gallery also offers workshops, open performances, and special presentations for both adults and children.

Address: 1 St. Andrew's Road, #01

Official site: https://www.nationalgallery.sg

Often voted as the best airport in the world, the 10-story-high Jewel Ghangi is not your ordinary transportation hub. In fact, you should put it on your list of must-see places to visit while in Singapore.

In addition to over 300 shops, the airport's most famous feature is the 40-meter-high HSBC Rain Vortex, an indoor waterfall surrounded by over 2,000 trees. Each of the airport's three terminals (all seamlessly connected) also has its own garden. There's a cactus garden in Terminal 1; a sunflower garden in T2; and a very famous butterfly garden at T3, home to more than 40 species of butterflies, a six-meter grotto waterfall, and plenty of flowering plants.

The airport is also home to two movie theaters, an entertainment corner with vintage arcade machines, an indoor canopy park with garden mazes and stunning viewing decks, and a 12-meter-tall (that's four stories high) slide both children and adults are welcome to use.

Official site: https://www.changiairport.com

Singapore Getaways: If you're based in Singapore and looking for some time outside the city, or if you're thinking of adding something on to your holiday, consider one of our ideas for weekend getaways from Singapore . Flights connect the city to beautiful destinations around SE Asia in just two or three hours. There are also several interesting places you can reach by bus or ferry.

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18 Best Things To Do in Singapore

Updated February 11, 2021

You can enjoy both urban and natural attractions in this mega-metropolis. Perusing the designer stores on the commercial  Orchard Road or the bustling stalls in  Little India will showcase the city's fast pace. And at the other end of the spectrum, Gar

• All Things To Do

Gardens by the Bay Gardens by the Bay

If you're looking for a taste of nature without the trek, Gardens by the Bay is your urban jungle. The attraction is conveniently based in Marina Bay and features a wide of variety of enticing things to do and see that seamlessly mix Mother Nature with the metropolis. The Supertree Grove, the most recognized landmark of the park, features 18 "supertrees" that support the OCBC Skyway, a 419-foot-long aerial walkway that affords views of both the surrounding gardens, as well as Marina Bay.

In the nearby seashell-shaped facilities, visitors will find the highly lauded Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. The Flower Dome is the largest greenhouse in the world and showcases numerous types of plants and flowers grouped by country. Expect to find tulips next to replicas of Dutch architecture and Birds of Paradise flowers in the South African Garden. The Cloud Forest –  a crowd favorite –  features a 114-foot-tall mini mountain that plays host to the world's tallest indoor waterfall, which visitors can observe via the aerial Cloud Walk or Tree Top Walk. And that's just a few of the activities available on-site.

Marina Bay Marina Bay free

The district of Marina Bay is considered to be Singapore's tourism epicenter. Marina Bay houses some of the city's main points of interest as well as numerous opportunities for entertainment like the ArtScience Museum and The Float at Marina Bay (the world's largest floating stadium). You'll also find the Singapore Flyer , Gardens By the Bay and Merion Park , some of the city's best lookout spots overlooking the bay. And although many features will draw your eye, the centerpiece of Marina Bay is the Marina Bay Sands resort. You name it, this complex probably has it: a world-class casino, multiple nightclubs, performance halls, shops and spectacular overnight accommodations. Plus, don't miss the Sands SkyPark, an elevated open-air concourse that crowns the resort.

Recent visitors said a walk around Marina Bay is a must, especially for first-time travelers. Some recommended a stroll during the day and night, as both take on two different atmospheres. Those who decide to visit at night will be treated to a nightly light show put on by Marina Bay Sands. However, no matter the time of day, visitors say eateries surrounding this tourist mecca are pricey.

Singapore Botanic Gardens Singapore Botanic Gardens free

For such a large city, you'll be shocked at the amount of parks that share space with the skyscrapers. And the Singapore Botanic Gardens is the epicenter of this natural, flowering splendor. Formerly an unused plantation, the garden hugs 60 acres of the city, not only living up to Singapore's nickname of the City in the Garden, but earning the country's first UNESCO World Heritage site title. The gardens attract both casual naturalists and scholarly botanists with its  world-renowned botanical library, acres of varied vegetation and free admission. Numerous attractions dot a map of the gardens; however, we advise that you simply wander through this gorgeous spectacle and unwind. That said: travelers say not to miss the National Orchid Garden for its innumerable floral varieties and breathtaking colors.

Overall, recent visitors were taken by the beauty of the floral grounds, with some saying it was the best attraction they visited during their time in Singapore. Due to the size of the gardens, many travelers suggested allotting hours to tour this attraction because there is just that much to see. Aside from hitting the main points of interests, some recommended taking a jog or packing a picnic as an alternative means of soaking up the attraction. However you decide to experience the gardens, travelers agreed: bring water. With average temperatures reaching the 80s, it's essential you have a bottle to stay hydrated. 

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Cloud Forest Cloud Forest

The climate-controlled dome that houses Gardens by the Bay’s Cloud Forest carves out a futuristic looking space along Singapore’s skyline. An indoor waterfall serves as the Cloud Forest’s primary attraction, cascading 30 meters (about 98 feet) down the human-made mountain. The Cloud Forest’s climate aims to replicate misty tropical mountains, which are cooler than the local area, so jets of vapor and spray from the waterfall work together to create the attraction’s namesake fog.

Recent visitors primarily praise the indoor waterfall, adding that the attraction offers a welcome respite from Singapore’s sweltering heat. Travelers also marveled at the plants, which vary from level to level; however, they also warn that parts of the higher levels may be triggering for those with a fear of heights.

Singapore's Chinatown Singapore's Chinatown free

As a nation composed of mostly immigrants, Singapore possesses a number of ethnic enclaves. Chinatown is one of the largest of them. Broken up into five districts, the neighborhood is packed with a variety of things to do and is constantly buzzing with pedestrians passing in and out of its shops, eateries and food stalls.

If you're seeking souvenirs, head over to Pagoda Street for trinkets galore, then consider grabbing a bite at Smith Street or New Bridge Road, the latter of which is known for its barbecued meats. For a night out on the town, venture on over to the Tangong Pagar district, which offers loads of bars, pubs and karaoke lounges. And when you need a break from the hustle and bustle, explore the Telok Ayer district. This area has the largest concentration of ancient mosques and temples in Chinatown. Set out to the Thian Hock Keng Temple for some quiet Zen. And though it's not associated with Chinese culture, you should stop in front of the Sri Mariamman Temple to admire its colorful, intricate facades.

Singapore Zoo Singapore Zoo

When you tire of the urban jungle, head to an actual jungle: the Singapore Zoo. The expansive facility is broken up into 11 different zones and has 12 exhibits, affording numerous opportunities to get up close and personal with a diverse array of wildlife. V enture to Primate Kingdom and get a glimpse into the lives of the 39 species of primate that call that zone home . Or visit the Elephants of Asia exhibit, where you can rub elbows with the five big girls (all five elephants are female) hailing from Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Indonesia. Along with numerous exhibits, guests can also attend animal shows, go on tours and safaris (the night safari is particularly popular), or even feed some of the animals.

Recent travelers raved about the zoo. Visitors appreciated how well-maintained the zoo was: animals appeared to be well looked after and their enclosures appeared to be exactly what their habitats would look like in the wild. Both kids and adults reported being entertained, and some recommended allotting as much as an entire day for the zoo as there is that much to see.

Orchard Road Orchard Road free

Every modern metropolis must have its commercial avenue. Singapore's version is Orchard Road. This electric boulevard buzzes with  the whizzing of cars,  the humming of neon lights and  the swiping of credit cards, a far cry from the way things once were way back when. Orchard Road got its name from the presence of fruit orchards, nutmeg plantations and pepper farms that dotted the area in the early 19th century. Today, the mile-long street houses tons of eateries and a whopping 47 shopping malls carrying high end brands, popular international retailers like Zara and H&M as well as local shops. The massive  ION Orchard shopping complex is arguably the centerpiece of the street, so you'll inevitably be lured inside by the designer names and stream of fashionable patrons. 

We definitely encourage window-shopping, but depending on your purchasing power, you should be wary of the enticing bright lights here. At various stores, the price tags range from reasonable to obscene, so we recommend saving your cash for unique souvenirs found in other character-filled neighborhoods like Little India and Chinatown . If you're still interested in getting a taste of this flashy thoroughfare, Orchard Road also houses art galleries, movie theaters, clubs and various other entertainment opportunities.

Merlion Park Merlion Park free

On Marina Bay , Merlion Park hosts one of Singapore's most recognizable monuments. The Merlion statue is the head of a lion with the body and tail of a fish, and the hybrid creature spouts water from its mouth and into the bay. Measuring 28 feet tall, the statue may seem a bit odd to the naked eye, but the statue is actually a nod to Singapore's history. The head of Merlion represents Singapura, the city's first name, which means 'lion city' in Malay. The fish tail and body symbolizes Singapore's old days as a small fishing town. Even though  the statue has claimed all the fame, another notable highlight is the park's panoramic view of the bay. Particularly at night, the urban vista with the spectacular Marina Bay Sands resort impresses visitors. Some travelers, however, complained of congestion and suggested visiting when the sun isn't at its peak.

Merlion Park is just a short walk from the Raffles Place MRT. The park is free to visit at any time of the day (though we recommend visiting at night). For more information, check out the Singapore Tourism Board's website .

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Sentosa Sentosa

Sentosa is an entire island resort dedicated to fun for all ages. You want family-friendly amusement; head to Universal Studios Singapore, Adventure Cove Waterpark or S.E.A. Aquarium.You want some adventure; hit up iFly Singapore, Mega Adventure or The Flying Trapeze. You need some relaxation; then hit the links or stake your claim on miles of beaches, including Palawan Beach, the southernmost point of Continental Asia.  And that's really only some of the myriad of activities you can do on Sentosa. 

While Sentosa is a vacation destination that could take an entire week to consume, we suggest that you set aside one day from touring Singapore's cultural sites for some island fun. Although some visitors found the conglomerate to be overwhelming, travelers agreed that the attractions are not only top-notch but really fun as well.

Little India Little India free

Should you want to stray from the mainland, immerse yourself in Little India. This cultural enclave, located a little more than 2 miles northwest of Marina Bay , features a dense network of streets and shops where you can find anything from flower garlands to fragrant spices and colorful fabrics. Start by perusing the boutiques along Serangoon Road and then venture down the smaller alleyways to discover true treasures. There's also the 24-hour Mustafa Centre, perfect for grabbing any last-minute amenities, and the open-air Tekka Centre, which offers sari and goldsmith retailers. When your feet (and credit card) begin to tire, check out the gorgeous Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, a Hindu place of worship.

Recent visitors enjoyed their trip to Little India, with many citing the neighborhood's authenticity as its best asset. Some travelers who are from or have visited India even went so far as to say that Little India made them feel as if they were in the country itself. Along with shopping, travelers strongly recommended arriving on an empty stomach to get a taste of the great northern and southern Indian dishes the neighborhood has to offer. But plan your time accordingly; Sundays are especially busy, according to reviewers. 

Singapore Flyer Singapore Flyer

Ever since Chicago built one in 1893 for the World Expo, cities around the world have learned that tourists really like Ferris wheels – huge ones. In 2000, London built its famous Eye , standing 443 feet tall. But Singapore didn't wait long before constructing the Flyer, which trumps its British equivalent by almost a hundred feet. Since opening in 2008, the 42-storey-tall Flyer, billed as Asia's largest giant observation wheel, has offered visitors 360-degree views of the urban landscape from Marina Bay . The attraction claims that visitors can catch a glimpse of neighboring Malaysia or Indonesia from the highest point of the observation wheel. 

Travelers label the Singapore Flyer as a must-do, with many saying the views atop the wheel are simply breathtaking. Visitors say the 30-minute ride time gives people ample time to take in the great views and snap lots of pictures. What's more, the pods are air-conditioned, making it a great place to also cool off from Singapore's year-round heat. Some suggested going at night to bare witness to the glittering city lights, or if you can, opt for a visit at dusk or sunset.

East Coast Park East Coast Park free

East Coast Park runs more than 9 miles along the southeast coast of Singapore. Visitors to the park can swim in the Singapore Strait; bask under the sun; barbecue and camp in the grass; and cycle or inline skate along the park’s paved path. The small park aims to appeal to every type of traveler, despite only covering less than 1 square mile of space.

Recent visitors appreciated the opportunity to get some exercise in at East Coast Park. They recommended renting a bike to take advantage of the park’s winding trail, while inline skating is also an option. Be careful during the weekends, though, as the paved path gets exceptionally crowded, according to recent visitors. After burning off some calories, travelers recommended taking advantage of the nearby shopping center.

The Southern Ridges The Southern Ridges free

Anyone who appreciates an excellent jaunt will love a visit to the Southern Ridges. Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, HortPark, Kent Ridge Park and Labrador Nature Reserve collectively make up the Southern Ridges. The Henderson Waves, a pedestrian bridge with wavy accents, is the area’s most stunning attraction. The bridge connects Telok Blangah Hill Park to Mount Faber Park. The Marang Trail offers another popular option and leads travelers to the top of Mount Faber.

The most commonly praised trail among past visitors is the Forest Walk, which connects HortPark and Telok Blangah Hill Park. The walk takes adventurers above the parks via an elevated platform, giving them a glimpse at the wildlife in and around the trees’ canopies.

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National Gallery Singapore National Gallery Singapore

A diversity of exhibits sets the National Gallery Singapore apart from its competitors. The gallery covers various mediums and its artwork ranges from the 1800s to the present; a majority of the art comes from Singapore and Southeast Asia. Exhibitions and programs regularly rotate through the gallery and keep its offerings fresh. You won’t need to leave the National Gallery Singapore to grab a bite, either, as the gallery hosts a variety of restaurants, lounges and cafes.

In addition to its art, past visitors were impressed by the National Gallery Singapore’s unique buildings. The former City Hall and Supreme Court were restored to house the museum, and travelers can even explore the court’s old holding cells. Recent travelers also suggest taking advantage of the gallery’s tours, which are included in the cost of admission.

Singapore Cable Car Singapore Cable Car

Two lines of the Singapore Cable Car Sky Network allow travelers to take in incredible views of the city as they traverse the area between Mount Faber and Sentosa . Six total stations divide the two lines (three stations each), while the lines themselves are a three- to five-minute walk between the Sentosa Station and the Imbiah Lookout Station. While panoramic views are the Singapore Cable Car’s main appeal, the cars are also an excellent means of transportation.

Past visitors describe their experiences on the Singapore Cable Car as nice and relaxing. Even if you’re afraid of heights, the rides are allegedly so smooth that acrophobia is not a problem. Recent travelers suggest getting a one-day unlimited rides pass, so that you can use the cable cars continuously from open to close.

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Bukit Timah Nature Reserve free

For those who want a wilder interaction with nature than Gardens by the Bay offers, the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve beckons from northwest of the city. The nature reserve sits about 8 miles from Singapore’s city center, in the geographic center of the island. The government dedicated the reserve in 1883 to protect the variety of plant, animal and insect life. Nowadays, travelers can trek to the top of Singapore’s tallest hill, Bukit Timah Hill, via the park’s paths.

Be sure to bring a camera; recent visitors snapped numerous photos of the area’s monkeys, foliage and birds. Past travelers appreciated that the reserve offers four different levels of hikes, which range from paved paths to steep slogs. Cyclists can also enjoy the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve’s well-built mountain biking trail. More information about trails is available at the reserve’s Exhibit Hall, which also offers limited parking that fills up exceptionally quickly, according to recent reviews.

Asian Civilizations Museum Asian Civilizations Museum

While we certainly encourage you to visit the neighborhoods of Little India , Chinatown and Kampong Glam (the Malay district), there's one place to preview the enormous diversity of Asian societies in Singapore. For this one-stop cultural shop, head to the Asian Civilizations Museum (ACM). This facility offers a broad survey Pan-Asian civilizations, including China, Southeast Asia and West Asia, with artwork and 1,300 artifacts from all corners of the continent. Wander through galleries and exhibitions and you'll find a diverse array of relics, such as religious sculptures, ornate furniture, Chinese ceramics and even remnants from a shipwreck. 

Many recent visitors enjoyed perusing the vast museum as well as the diversity of the art shown. Multiple travelers referenced the Tang Shipwreck exhibit as a must-see. However, if you're not a museum person, or don't have an interest in the subject matter, this attraction may prove underwhelming, as other travelers expressed. 

Jurong Bird Park Jurong Bird Park

A visit to the Jurong Bird Park provides an excellent first step into the world of birding. The massive aviary boasts exotic birds ranging from macaws to spoonbills to flamingos. If simply marveling at colorful, flying animals begins to bore you, the park also offers several shows and activities designed to entertain guests of all ages. What’s more, a guided tram is available to ferry visitors around the park for a one-time fee of SG$5 (about $3.69) for adults and SG$3 (about $2.21) for children ages 3 to 12.  

Past visitors universally loved the Lory Loft, where the birds will land on your hands and shoulders in search of a sip of nectar. These recent travelers also recommend being sure to catch the High Flyers and Penguin Feeding shows.

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Go on a Shopping Spree at These 15 Best Places to Shop in Singapore

 last updated: 14 jun, 2022 by tour my india.

Singapore , among many other things, is also famous for being a shopper’s paradise. It would be interesting to note that the tiny city packs in more malls per square mile than any other country in the world, which means you have ample opportunity to splurge on a single day during your trip here. And if indoor shopping with big brands and flagship stores is not your cup of tea, don’t worry. Some of the best places to shop in Singapore come in the form of open street markets and ethnic neighbourhoods. Looking for a detailed insight? Here’s the Singapore shopping guide that will take you to the country’s best shopping arcades and popular malls, besides advising you on things to buy and best souvenirs to pick.

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1. orchard road.

Surrounded by over 5000 establishment that include mega shopping malls, swanky restaurants, and high-end art galleries on both the ends, Orchard Road in Singapore doesn’t need any introduction. Named after the abundant fruit orchards, pepper farms and nutmeg plantations that once dotted the place in the early 19th century, the road is now, an undisputed shopping hub of Singapore that attracts both, locals and tourists alike. The ever-bustling arena, has to its offering, a plethora of choices ranging from younger and newer shopping arcades like ‘ION Orchard’, ‘Somerset 313’ and ‘Orchard Central’ to longstanding favourites such as ‘Tangs’, ‘Paragon’, ‘Wisma Atria’ and ‘Ngee Ann City’.

Plush interiors of these upscale shopping malls are a delight for all those on a swanky budget, and leaves them spoilt for choices with their great mix of luxury designer labels and mid-range fashion brands. While one can easily find here some of the hottest names from the global fashion catwalk, including Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Prada, those looking for daily and upscale fashion staples have convenient access to brands like H&M, Mango, Zara and Topshop. Well, that is not all! As much as Orchard is a paradise for shoppers, it is also an attractive destination for foodies. The most luxuriant shopping district in the island country is home to not only a myriad of opulent cafes, bars and celebrity restaurants, but also innumerable alfresco eateries and quick bite joints that provide for that much needed break after an extravagant retail therapy experience.

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2. Lucky Plaza

Right amidst the plush and luxuriant settings of the Orchard Road, ‘Lucky Plaza’ appears like a gem of the beautiful island nation. Reminding you of an old Singaporean shopping scene, the five storied building today attracts innumerable pocket-savvy travellers and shopping aficionados looking for some great discounts and deals. Needless to say, the quaint market has been recognized as one of the top places for budget shopping in Singapore and is best known for its range of good quality products, all sold at affordable prices.

From small souvenirs and knick-knacks to reasonably priced branded electronics, apparels, sunglasses and watches, you are sure to find almost everything here. And yes, they have some good perfumes too. Watch out for the small beauty shops across the mall, which are stocked with some of the most expensive fragrances in the world, all retailed out in sample sizes. For something ‘uniquely Singapore’, ask for the orchid-infused perfumes, which are a signature of the country and make for the most memorable gift for your loved ones.

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3. The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

As part of the glorious skyline of Singapore, sits the iconic symbol and visually stunning ‘Marina Bay Sands Complex’. Right in the heart of the complex is ‘The Shoppes’, one of the country’s largest shopping malls, known for its high end luxury boutiques, international fashion brands and exclusive emerging labels. The plush interiors host some of the world’s priciest tags, including names like Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Saint Laurent, Miu Miu and Bottega Veneta. The Shoppes is also famed for its state-of-the-art architecture that features a futuristic design with massive glass windows, vast open patios and a central water canal running through its length. After a long hectic day of shopping, a gondola ride on this canal is a must and indeed a therapeutic and fun-filled experience. If you are someone who fancies good food, the mall is lined with a range of Michelin-Starred restaurants, enter one and savour a culinary indulgence specially curated by the country’s top celebrity chefs. Got some extra dollars to splurge? Take a trip to the in-house casino where a lovely evening awaits you with an amazing array of table games, slot machines and complimentary drink services.

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4. Suntec City

Divided into four zones with more than 600 shops, ‘Suntec City Complex’ finds its name on the list of premium and elite shopping destinations of Singapore. One of the best shopping complexes in the island country, it boasts a mega shopping mall, a movie theatre, gaming arcades and plenty of flagship stores, featuring high street names to luxury designer labels. If you don’t plan to go up the Orchard Road or the Marina Bay Sands, Suntec is probably your best bet to witness a classy and upscale Singaporean shopping scene. The place also has a good mix of restaurants, from usual cafes and eating joints like McDonalds, Burger King and KFC to high-end restaurants serving a range of South East Asian cuisine. A perfect place to relax is the fountain terrace. Visit it in the evening and you will be treated to a spell-binding spectacle of the iconic ‘Fountain of Wealth’, which is all lit up with laser performances and live songs.

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5. Chinatown Street Market

Snuggled in the heart of the ethnic Chinese neighbourhood of Singapore, the ‘Chinatown Street Market’ is in fact a pedestrianized mall that extends from the famous Pagoda Street all the way up to the Smith Street, encompassing Terengganu and Sago Streets in between. Lined with hundreds of colourful stalls selling everything from clothes and pottery to a range of household items, no wonder the place is a shopaholic’s delight. Looking for some of the most exotic and best things to buy during your trip here? Look out for the traditional Chinese trinkets, red paper cut-out lanterns, beautiful silk robes, handmade fans adorned with gorgeous calligraphic illustrations and impressive lacquerware, which also count amongst the best souvenirs to buy from Singapore.

For the most wallet-friendly deal, haggle with a smile and you are sure to be responded in the most cordial fashion. Well, no Shopping in Chinatown is complete without indulging in its rich gastronomic experience; a number of food stalls and hawker centres array across the Smith Street that treat you with an intoxicating aroma of their range of palatable choices. Some of the most recommended eats here include the ever-popular Hainanese Chicken Rice, Laksa, Bak kut Teh and the Crispy Fried Duck among various other local Singaporean specialities.

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6. Little India District and Arcade

Splendid Hindu temples, bustling markets and delectable Indian cuisine, ‘ Little India ’ not only sits as one of the top tourist destinations but also as one of the best places to shop in Singapore. The vibrant and colourful neighbourhood is always abuzz with the activity of fortune tellers, henna designers, custom-made tailor artists and small shophouses selling everything ranging from glitzy gold jewellery, traditional temple ware and ethnic silk sarees, to an overwhelming variety of Indian groceries and spices. Perhaps the most striking feature of this gorgeous little district, is the never ending array of street vendors selling a melange of fresh flowers and jasmine garlands, a sweet fragrance of which constantly wafts in the air.

If you are someone looking for a true shopping extravaganza in this ever vibrant Indian neighbourhood, head to the ‘Little India Arcade’. Located on the corner of Serangoon Road, the complex with its bold orange façade attracts uncountable shoppers looking to splurge on a range of traditional Indian clothing, glass bangles, wooden handicrafts and colourful folk artwork. The popular ‘Moghul Sweet Shop’ is another attraction here, which is best known for its mouth-watering delicacies. Once there, you should try their spicy samosas, juicy jalebis and lip-smacking ras malai, and you are sure to be instantly transported to a food heaven.

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7. Mustafa Centre

Walking down the streets of Little India, as you reach the Syed Alwi Road, you will find yourselves surrounded with huge buildings of the famous ‘ Mustafa Shopping Centre ’ scattered across different corners. Considered to be a one stop shopping destination for budget travellers and almost all local Singaporeans for their daily needs, this is the place where you will find everything a wide variety of products, from clothes, electronics, utensils, footwear, homeware and jewellery, to fruits, vegetables, spices, meat and poultry. Mustafa is also probably the most ideal place to look out for best souvenirs from Singapore.

From can openers and refrigerator magnets to keychains and miniature Merlions, the list of things to buy from here is simply endless. The shopping mecca is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and if you don’t find a particular item at Mustafa, you will probably not find it anywhere else. The shopping complex also has a rooftop restaurant with the name of ‘Kebabs n Curries’ that serves delightful Asian cuisine. There is also a small café on the ground floor serving a mix of Western and Asian delights, from burgers and fries to biryani and parathas. If you are looking for foreign exchange in Singapore at best exchange rates, we guarantee, no one can give a better deal than the Mustafa Centre. It is one of the best places for foreign exchange in Singapore.

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8. Haji Lane

The hidden gem in the heart of Kampong Glam, the Malay neighbourhood in Singapore, ‘Haji Lane’ is yet another of the most popular places for shopping in Singapore. Offering exotic products from personalized t-shirts, quirky footwear, tribal jewellery and handcrafted leather bags, to eccentric homeware and furniture that is kind of impossible to find in conventional shopping malls, this whimsical lane makes sure you have some unique and unusual memorabilia to take home. A favourite place to grab an exceptional Singapore souvenir is ‘Eighty Two Tales’.

All those interested in exclusive and trendy clothing would also love a trip to Singapore’s pioneer in eco-fashion, the ‘Zhai Eco Collection’. Best known for its fashion wear made from home-grown bamboo-fibre, the place will instantly get you hooked to its wide array of offerings ranging from dresses, skirts, pants and tops to socks and other elegant women wear. Nevertheless, even if you don’t intend on buying anything, take a visit to this original Indie district of the country, which is peppered with chic boutiques, quaint cafes and quirky pop-up stores that provide for an unusual food extravaganza. The peculiar graffiti wall art that runs all the way up and down the famous Singapore street also surprises and delights tourists. With everything from vibrantly coloured Aztec designs to distinguishable portraits, you could spend an hour or two gazing at the fabulous artwork on display.

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9. Joo Chiat

The quintessential Peranakan precinct, ‘Joo Chiat’ is a beloved little jewel of Eastern Singapore. Dotted with traditional two-storey terrace and shophouses alongside the chic yoga studios, hip cafes and quaint coffee shops, the place sees a massive footfall of locals and tourists alike. At every turn, you will be smitten by an example of interesting architecture and historical appeal that boasts an old-world charm.

Those looking for a retail therapy must not miss out on ‘Rumah Bebe’, the 25 years old treasure house of antiques, beautiful beaded slippers and embroidered pouches, a heirloom of Nonya craft and culture. Head to ‘Cat Socrates’ if you are keen on getting some vintage memorabilia or themed products. The whimsical destination also specialises in Singaporean literature and interesting stationary. As one of the country’s best foodie destinations, visitors travelling here are sure to be enthralled by a proliferation of eateries. Once here, don’t leave before trying the traditional Nonya delicacies, from the famous Katong Laksa to Kueh Chan, you have endless choices to choose from.

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10. Sim Lim Square

Well, one of the best things to buy from Singapore is definitely electronics. And if that is what you are looking for during your vacation in the country, ‘Sim Lim Square’ is just the perfect place for you to visit. The six-storey space is a walking distance from the Bugis and Little India MRT, and considered a one-stop destination for all your IT and electronic needs – from televisions, SLR cameras and camcorders to mobiles, tablets and laptops. While there are aplenty of authorized dealers selling globally recognized brands, it is still recommended to do your homework and check the price of the items back home to avoid being taken for a ride. Last but not the least, be prepared to haggle for the best price.

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11. Holland Village

The dubbed ‘Bohemian Enclave’ of Singapore, Holland Village is where east meets the west, where European culture comes to life in a peculiar Singaporean way. The tall residential buildings in this colonial district intertwine amazingly well with the vivacity of the old open streets lined with al-fresco restaurants, hip cafes and popular lifestyle outlets. The funky and quirky boutiques here sell everything from Made-in-Asia wearables and small trinkets to artsy handicrafts and home furnishings. Looking for some unique and classy oriental inspired gifting ideas? Head to ‘Lim’s’, a hub of stylish modern furniture, accessories and home décor. From table lamps, wall hangings and photo frames to ethnic scroll paintings and silk cushion covers, you are sure to find something for yourself from their impressive collection. ‘Lorong Mambong’ is another popular boutique shop where you’ll find exclusive pottery and household items crafted from wicker and cane among other beautiful souvenirs.

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12. Bugis Street Market

Located right next to the malls of Bugis MRT Station, the ‘Bugis Street Market’ probably is one of the largest, cheapest and best destinations for shopping in the whole of Singapore. Lively alleyways of this famous shopping district are crammed with over 800 shops that sell everything from fashion jewellery, shoes, bags and cosmetics to a whole range of souvenirs and accessories. While you can buy small trinkets like fridge magnets, keychains and stationary starting at just S$1, don’t be surprised to lay your hands on a pair of trendy sunglasses only for S$10. The Bugis Street clothes need a special mention. Though not branded, you would be able to get some real good quality stuff like jeans and t-shirt just under S$20. Not to forget, bargaining is ‘THE MANTRA’ here; if you have liked an item, do haggle for it hard and you are sure to crack a deal for much cheaper than the originally quoted price. Well, not just shopping, Bugis Street is also popular for its gastronomical delights. A large number of food stals set up across the street offer a range of different cuisines, from Thai, Vietnamese and local Singaporean to Chinese and Indian.

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13. Sentosa

The unrivalled fun capital of Singapore, the world popular ‘Sentosa Island’ is also one of the best places to go for a retail therapy experience. Embark on a shopping spree here visiting the country’s largest shopping mall, ‘VivoCity’. Sitting as a gateway to Sentosa , the mall consists of every kind of outlet you can think of, from retail and lifestyle stores to rooftop amphitheatre, kids’ playground, 15-screen cinema and a large number of restaurants.

The best way to get here is by MRT, where you disembark on the Harbourfront MRT Station, enjoy shopping and head to the Sentosa Island via the skytrain monorail that runs at regular intervals from Level 3, Lobby L of the shopping centre. While Sentosa is better known as a fun city with attractions like Universal Studio, Resorts World Sentosa and SEA Aquarium, the place is still great for getting your hands on souvenirs and memorabilia as a remembrance of your holidays in Singapore. Some of the best gifts you must purchase are, the Universal Studios themed merchandize and the Merlion embossed coins and toys. If you have kids, they would surely love some sweet treats from ‘Candylicious’ and the ‘Hershey’s Chocolate World’.

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14. Clarke Quay

For most, ‘Clarke Quay’ is a nightlife hub of Singapore dotted with impressive waterfront restaurants and exciting collection of pubs & bars. But, only few know, the place offers its own share of shopping fun too. The colourful avenues of this charming riverside area bustle with several out-of-the-box fashion outlets, boutique stores and independent arts & crafts shops. A number of malls like ‘Clarke Quay Central’, ‘Great World City’ and ‘Riverside Point’ in the vicinity also keep the travellers busy with their lifestyle stores, fashion merchandize and entertainment zones. Keen to satiate that street shopper within you? Saunter through the quay’s quaint shophouses and pushcarts selling unique pottery, artistic woodcrafts and tacky jewellery.

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15. IMM Outlet Mall

The ‘IMM Mall’ in Jurong East is one of the largest outlet shopping centres in Singapore. A must-visit place for every shopaholic, it is dotted with over 90 factory outlets that present a wide range of premium fashion brands and popular designer labels. Some of the most sought after international names here are Charles & Keith, Pedro, Furla, Coach, DKNY, Kate Spade and Michael Kors. Other than the outlet stores, IMM also has on its offering, a great number of furniture shops. One must look out for Commune, Star Living, Grohe and Simon Gallery that provide for a wide selection of home décor and furnishing stuff. What’s more? The place is always teeming with great discounts and deals, no wonder, it’s a shopping hotspot not only for local Singaporeans but also for international tourists, who also have to their disposal, special tourist privileges and redemption policies.

Published: 24 Oct, 2019 By Tour My India

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Tour My India

Tour My India is among the top notch online travel organizations, which has been recognized by the Department of Tourism, Government of India. Owing to its rich experience in the travel domain, it has earned specialization in offering all types of tours. Right from an excursion on the rugged terrain of hilly areas, to pilgrimage on holy places, Tour My India has quality experience and expertise in making all the arrangements for a safe and memorable trip.

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Things to Do in Chinatown Singapore | The 6 BEST Attractions

S ingapore Chinatown, which is about a 45 minute walk from Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands, is an ethnic enclave within the chic and modern city. It is in the Outram district of the Central Area. In the area known as Chinatown Singapore, you will get a first-hand view of Chinese culture – decorations, food, the way people dress, and even the building architecture. 

Although Singapore is very modern and contemporary, Chinatown retains its authenticity a great deal. The Old meets New here. 

If you are planning a visit to this incredibly posh city and want to know the best things to do in Chinatown Singapore, this travel guide details the best Chinatown attractions, plus where to eat, stay, and shop in Chinatown.

Singapore Chinatown – Quick Facts and FAQs

If you plan to visit Chinatown Singapore, here are a few quick facts and frequently asked questions that will be helpful to know before your visit.

What is Chinatown Singapore?

Chinatown is the Chinese quarter of Singapore, very close to the Marina area, Gardens by the Bay, and many of the tourist attractions that make Singapore one of the best places to visit in Asia . This culturally vibrant area is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Singapore.

Dating back to the early 19th century, Chinese immigrants settled in the area. Many of the original buildings and shophouses have been meticulously preserved. 

In Chinatown Singapore, the Chinese heritage of the original immigrants is famously celebrated here. You’ll find this long standing influence everywhere you look – from the colorful murals to the intricate facades, and ornate decorations.

Where is Chinatown in Singapore? 

Chinatown is located in Central Singapore, making it a convenient place to visit even if you only have 2 days in Singapore . There are four distinct areas or sub-areas of Chinatown – Kreta Ayer, Telok Ayer, Tanjong Pagar, Bukit Pasoh. 

There is also a second Chinatown in Singapore, which is called ‘People’s Chinatown’. In Geylang, halfway to the airport from the official Chinatown, many Chinese migrants moved here as the numbers increased. 

Many consider this to be more traditional. It is cheaper, too. The official Singapore Chinatown is close to many top attractions in the city like Clarke Quay , Bugis, Sentosa Island , Merlion Park, Marina Bay Sands, Gardens By The Bay , Singapore Flyer, and the Orchard Road , so prices are notably higher.

What streets make up Chinatown Singapore?

Chinatown is just east of Smith Street, which was known as Hei Yuan Kai or Theatre Street in Cantonese because of the famous Cantonese opera Lai Chun Yuen. Go in, and you will find a maze of narrow streets. 

There are 6 streets that make up Chinatown in Singapore  – Mosques Street, Pagoda Street, Sago Lane, Smith Street, Temple Street, and Trengganu Street. There is also a maze of small lanes and alleyways crisscrossing the area.

Why should you visit Chinatown Singapore?

If you are wondering if Chinatown Singapore is worth visiting, the short answer is yes. 

You should spend some time in Chinatown to experience the unique culture, try authentic traditional food, visit the street markets, see cultural relics, and tour the museums, galleries, and visit the parks.

What is Chinatown Singapore known for?

Chinatown is also called the ‘Place of Nightless Days’ or Bu Ye Tian. It was once a red-light area in the early 20th century. Smith Street and Keong Saik Road were infamous.

Nowadays, the district is best known for its authentic culture, beautiful temples, and delicious food.

Where to stay in Chinatown Singapore

Chinatown is one of the best areas to stay in Singapore thanks to its central location and proximity to other attractions.

Chinatown also is easily accessible by public transportation, so even if you plan to visit Universal Studios on the island of Sentosa, you can get there conveniently using the metro system. 

Hotel 1888 is a great, budget friendly hotel located in the heart of Chinatown Singapore.

Search all hotels in Chinatown Singapore HERE

Top 6 Attractions in Chinatown Singapore

Chinatown is home to several significant Chinese temples and religious sites, many of which are among the best things to see in Chinatown Singapore.

There are cultural institutions too that will help you gain a better understanding of Chinatown and this district’s original settlers. 

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

This 4-storied temple boasts a beautiful and grand prayer hall with high ceilings, a bell tower and a drum tower.

Visit the temple and see the solid gold stupa (pagoda), which hosts the sacred god, made according to the guidelines of the Tang Dynasty. The temple serves as a sacred repository for what is believed to be a tooth relic of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism – hence the name Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.

There is also a giant prayer wheel on the roof-top. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple also houses a museum that exhibits more than 300 artifacts.

Sri Mariamman Temple

An impressive architectural gem, Sri Mariamman is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. Built to honor Goddess Mariamman, who is believed to have the power to cure disease, the temple is adorned with ornate carvings and colorful sculptures of deities. 

The temple is built with a South Indian Dravidian-style architecture. It is busiest during the Thimithi festival in October or November.

While this temple is a sacred place of worship for Hindus, it is open to all visitors – both spiritual visitors and culturally curious guests.

Thian Hock Keng Temple

Thian Hock Keng Temple, also known as the Tianfu Temple, is another historic Chinese temple located in Singapore’s Chinatown that is worth visiting. Built in 1839, it is the oldest Chinese temple in Singapore. 

Thian Hock Keng Temple is dedicated to Mazu Po, the goddess of the sea, and is a place of worship for the Hokkien Chinese community. Its peaceful ambiance and ornate design continue to captivate visitors.

Hong Lim Park 

Hong Lim Park, also known as Speaker’s Corner, is a public park nestled in the heart of Central Singapore on the edge of Chinatown. It serves as the country’s designated space for public speeches, demonstrations, and gatherings, making it a symbol of free speech and democratic expression. 

Located at North Canal Road, social gatherings are often held at the park, like the National Day celebrations and music concerts.

The park features lush greenery, a picturesque pond, and a variety of recreational amenities, making it a popular spot for relaxation and leisure activities, as well.

Chinatown Heritage Centre 

The Chinatown Heritage Centre is one of the best museums in Singapore and a great place to delve into the most interesting facts about Singapore and its history. Located on Pagoda Street, the museum offers a window into the history and culture of Singapore’s Chinatown.

Housed in a restored shophouse, the museum takes visitors on a journey back in time to the early days of Chinatown, showcasing the lives and experiences of early Chinese immigrants who settled in Singapore. 

Inside, meticulously recreated and preserved displays of period rooms, street scenes, and personal artifacts provide a vivid and insightful look into the challenges, dreams, and aspirations of the early Chinese community. 

Admire the Detailed Murals

One of the most endearing things to do in Chinatown Singapore is to simply wander the streets and take in the beautiful murals that adorn its streets and alleyways.

These painted murals serve as a visual tapestry that tells the cultural stories of the Chinese community in Singapore. 

From depictions of daily life in old shophouses to traditional Chinese folklore, the murals add to the neighborhood’s charm and heritage.

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The Pinnacle@Duxton

The Pinnacle@Duxton is a 50th-floor sky bridge offering panoramic views of the Singapore skyline.

Located in the Tanjong Pagar district of Chinatown, this public housing development is renowned for its distinctive and innovative design, featuring seven towering residential blocks interconnected by sky bridges. 

Completed in 2009, The Pinnacle@Duxton also boasts unique rooftop gardens, filled with greenery and recreational amenities.

Where to Eat in Chinatown Singapore

Most people visit Chinatown Singapore to try authentic traditional food. You will find restaurants, bars, and even food courts, but be sure to try the food from street vendors, as well. 

Here are some of the best places to eat in Chinatown Singapore.

Singapore Chinatown Food Street

Food Street is lined with hawkers and roadside shops. You will find flavors from all over Southeast Asia here.  Food Street has many street vendors offering the traditional satay, Hainanese chicken rice, and noodles.

Try stingray, satay on skewers, kway teow, roasted duck, and Hainanese chicken rice. 

You will also find many boutiques, wine bars, and souvenir streets.

Chinatown Complex Food Centre

With more than 260 food stalls, the Chinatown Complex Food Centre is the largest hawker center in Singapore. With a dizzying array of culinary offerings spread across two levels, this hawker center is a food lover’s paradise.

Maxwell Food Centre 

Maxwell Hawker Centre is a culinary delight where locals and tourists to Singapore flock to find some of the city’s most beloved street food dishes, like dim sum, rice porridge, fish balls and noodles.

Hawker culture is a quintessential part of Singapore’s culinary scene. Hawker centers are basically food courts where you’ll find lots of street food stalls selling quick, affordable meals.

Amoy Street Food Centre

Located on the edge of Chinatown and the central business district, tucked away amidst Singapore’s tall buildings, the Amoy Street Food Center boasts plenty of stalls, but the tables fill up quickly.

This is a popular spot to grab a meal for both locals and passersby.

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Chinatown Nightlife

Chinatown is throbbing after dark. The most famous night spots are at Ann Siang Hill and Club Street. There are cool bars, screening rooms, and Tippling clubs. There are gay bars too in the area. B28 is a star attraction along with Backstage Bar, Barrio Chino, Breeze, Cow and Coolies Pub.

For those visiting Singapore with kids, be sure to Check out the Chinatown Street Market, where you can find great souvenirs and, yes, even more food! 

Shopping at Chinatown

Singapore offers some of the best shopping of any city in Asia, rivaling Hong Kong for that distinct title.

Besides street markets, Chinatown also offers shopping opportunities in its numerous boutique stores, selling everything from antiques and traditional clothing to contemporary fashion and accessories.

Ann siang Road 

Ann Siang Road is just one of the popular shopping options in Singapore’s Chinatown. Visitors will find a distinctive shopping experience with a wide variety of retail establishments available there. 

For those looking for a great shopping experience in Singapore , Ann Siang Road is a must-visit location with everything from fashion boutiques to specialty shops.

China Square Central Flea Market 

The China Square Central Flea Market is another great shopping choice for anyone hunting for one-of-a-kind gems. It’s a fun and unique place to visit because of its lively atmosphere and varied range of merchants. 

Chinatown Complex 

The Chinatown Complex is not only a food center, it is a premier shopping location found in Singapore’s bustling Chinatown neighborhood. 

This complex provides a large selection of shop choices, including conventional Chinese items, apparel, jewelry, and mementos. Visitors can experience a range of regional and international cuisine at the complex’s active food center and take in the  lively ambiance and varied offerings. 

The Chinatown Complex is the ideal location for those looking for unusual presents or just wanting to fully immerse themselves in Singapore’s rich culture.

Tanjong Pagar Plaza 

A wide variety of shopping opportunities are available in Tanjong Pagar Plaza, which is situated in Singapore’s thriving Chinatown. 

This business district is home to a variety of retail establishments, including clothing boutiques, electronics retailers and specialty businesses. You’ll also find various restaurants and bars along the plaza. 

Like it? Pin this guide to the best things to do in Chinatown Singapore to save it for later!

Do you have a comment or question about what to do in Chinatown Singapore? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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Local Flavor: the best places to eat and drink in Singapore

Apr 24, 2024 • 5 min read

Eating is a national obsession in Singapore © Pei Shyuan Yeo

There's a Singapore that people think they know, a hyper-globalized city of modern skyscrapers.

But once you know where to look, it peels away to another world, one where traditional beliefs and age-old customs are practiced. Eating is a national obsession. You know the city means serious business when the first inscription on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list is the hawker or street food culture.

My background revolved around food, cooking at restaurants and hosting supper clubs. I took my knowledge of the streets to set up a food tour company focusing on the backstreets and local eats of the place I was born and raised in.  I have made it my life mission to help people find the best eats in the city. 

Think of this guide as getting the keys to the other, less visible city and immersing in the life of real Singapore. Let's get started, shall we?

If there is one breakfast I can only ever have in my life, my unconditional love would be the quintessential Singapore breakfast, the coconut and egg jam (kaya) toast at YY Kafei Dian . In a city that thrives on efficiency, this old-school breakfast spot continues to make its kaya from scratch. The result is a subtle smokiness of the toast, slattered with homemade kaya and topped with slices of buttery goodness. However, if you’re looking for all things sourdough, Bakers Bench Bakery is my go-to for breakfast meetings or just to work at a nice and inviting space for a few hours. The sticky buns are a personal favorite!

Coffee and snacks

Singapore has a thriving coffee culture, whether it’s the traditional coffee (kopi) or the specialty coffee shops. 

Let’s start first with kopi . A dark and full-bodied brew, it uses robusta beans that grow well in the region thanks to the higher temperatures and lower altitudes. There are so many ways to serve kopi that infographics have been made to demystify the art of placing your order. For example, Kopi-O kosong is straight black, Kopi-C is with condensed milk, and Kopi-Peng is iced coffee (remember this, you need this on humid afternoons in the city). And having it as a takeaway? Sometimes it might come in a plastic bag.

I’m also incredibly lucky to live within walking distance from Nylon, a beautiful space nestled on the ground floor of one of the oldest social housing estates in the city. Its coffees are beautiful and the staff are so down-to-earth that this place is worth returning to over and over again. 

And while you are in the neighborhood, pop by Ji Xiang Ang Ku Kueh , which sells what I like to think of as Singapore-style mochi, which are handmade and fresh daily. If this is your first time trying this snack, I recommend the traditional flavors of peanut or sweet bean. For freshly baked granola, you can’t go wrong at  Dearborn .

It’s time to hit one of the most defining aspects of the local way of life – eating at a hawker center. No visit to Singapore is complete without this experience and my personal favorite is the Beach Road Market. There are so many good eats here, but I tend to gravitate towards a lesser-known star, the chicken curry noodles at Da Po Hainanese. This is the way that chicken curry noodles should be done. The star of the dish is the gravy. It has a light savoriness that the ingredients, like the tofu puffs, soak up like a sponge. This market is also famous for its floor of hiking gear shops and I have many memories of picking up stuff for a camping trip before heading down to the food market.

Mid-afternoons in Singapore can be quite hot and humid and if you are looking to have heritage Singaporean recipes in an air-conditioned space, Rempapa would be a top pick. You can’t leave without trying buah keluak fried rice. Buah keluak is a seed of a tree that is native to Indonesia and Malaysia and believe it or not, is highly toxic if not prepared correctly! And because there should always be space for dessert, I also highly recommend finishing off with kuehs  (local sweets).

The city is not short of Michelin-starred restaurants and if you want to eat in any of them, you will need to book in advance. However, if you would like a non-blingy casual restaurant, my recommendation would be 808 Eating House . Reservations are recommended but walk-ins are also possible. With a tagline of "More fun dining than fine dining," you know you’re in for a good time.

In the heart of the charming Joo Chiat neighborhood, the chef has managed to put the spotlight on local and regional ingredients with a new spin on classic dishes. The result is that creations are both technically precise and wildly inventive, like the barramundi on a lightly spiced garam masala pumpkin puree with a touch of curry leaf oil.

If you are looking for Indian food, my top pick is  Revolver , which serves innovative modern Indian cuisine with global influences, cooked on a grill or open flame. Service is impeccable and the extensive drink list makes it a fun night out.

There is so much to love about Fura . The drinks are top-notch and the food menu is designed to pair with the drinks. As if this isn't reason enough to check out this space, its use of sustainable ingredients is nothing short of inspiring. For example, jellyfish – an overpopulated species in the oceans – forms part of the jellyfish martini. I have tried it and I recommend you try it too! Expect a relaxed atmosphere and attentive service by the all-female team. 

On the same street is Platform , a quirky understated cocktail bar with minimalist interiors. The drinks here not only taste good, but are also nutritious. Try the light and refreshing Rooibos72, a blend of orange blossom water, horseradish, sparkling sake and blue pea flower. The set-up makes you feel like you are hanging out at a friend’s place to chill and unwind. Isn’t it amazing that there are still these little places that you can escape to, even if it’s for an hour or two? 

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