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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

Shopping in Singapore - Orchid Perfume

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:

Shopping in Singapore - Asian Housewares

Asian Housewares

Accessories

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.

Where to buy:

Shopping in Singapore - Tiger Balm Products

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.

Where to buy:

Shopping in Singapore - Bak-Kwa

Bak-Kwa

Food item

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.

Where to buy:

Shopping in Singapore - Gold Accessories

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.

Where to buy:

Shopping in Singapore - Singapore Sling

Singapore Sling

Beverage

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.

Where to buy:

Best Shopping Streets in Singapore

Shopping in Singapore - Orchard Road

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 in Singapore - Marina Bay

Marina Bay

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

Timings: 10 AM to 9 PM

Shopping in Singapore - Chinatown

Chinatown

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

Timings: 10 AM to 9 PM

Shopping in Singapore - Little India

Little India

Shopping Street

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

Timings: 10 AM to 9 PM

Shopping in Singapore - Bugis Street

Bugis Street

Shopping 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

Shopping in Singapore - Clarke Quay

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

Timings: 10 AM to 8 PM

Best Souvenirs in Singapore

Shopping in Singapore - Merlion Souvenirs

Merlion Souvenirs

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

Shopping in Singapore - Coconut Jam

Coconut Jam

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

Shopping in Singapore - Laksa Paste

Laksa Paste

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

Shopping in Singapore - Peranakan Porcelain

Peranakan Porcelain

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

Shopping in Singapore - Beaded Jewelry

Beaded Jewelry

Where to buy: Shinobeads, BeadtleSweet, Beads and Crafts

Shopping in Singapore - Singapore Pressed Pennies

Singapore Pressed Pennies

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

Best Malls in Singapore

Shopping in Singapore - VivoCity

VivoCity

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 in Singapore - City Plaza

City Plaza

Shopping mall

What to buy: Accessories and clothing

Location: 810 Geylang Rd, Singapore 409286 Find on map

Timing: 10 AM to 10 PM

Shopping in Singapore - IMM

IMM

Shopping mall

What to buy: Jewelry and clothing

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

Timing: 10 AM to 10 PM

Shopping in Singapore - Lucky Plaza

Lucky Plaza

Shopping mall

What to buy: Clothing and accessories

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

Timing: 10 AM to 10 PM

Shopping in Singapore - Anchorpoint Shopping Centre

Anchorpoint Shopping Centre

Budget Shopping mall

What to buy: Affordable fashion accessories

Location: 370 Alexandra Rd, Singapore 159953 Find on map

Timing: 10 AM to 10 PM

Shopping in Singapore - City Square Mall

City Square Mall

Shopping mall

What to buy: Clothing, accessories, and food

Location: 180 Kitchener Rd, Singapore 208539 Find on map

Timing: 10 AM to 10 PM

Best Luxury Shopping Destinations in Singapore

Shopping in Singapore - Orchard Road

Orchard Road

Shopping Street

What to buy: Luxury accessories and clothing

Location: Orchard Rd, Singapore Find on map

Timings: 10 AM to 9 PM

Shopping in Singapore - Marina Bay

Marina Bay

Shopping area

What to buy: Luxury clothing and accessories

Location: Marina Bay, Singapore Find on map

Timings: 10 AM to 9 PM

Shopping in Singapore - VivoCity

VivoCity

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

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Shopping in Singapore - Clarke Quay

Clarke Quay

Shopping Area

What to buy: High-end items

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

Timings: 10 AM to 8 PM

Shopping in Singapore - Paragon Shopping Centre

Paragon Shopping Centre

Luxury shopping mall

What to buy: Women’s clothing and accessories

Location: 290 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238859 Find on map

Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM

Shopping in Singapore - Ngee Ann City

Ngee Ann City

Shopping mall

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

Shopping in Singapore - Anchorpoint Shopping Centre

Anchorpoint Shopping Centre

Budget Shopping mall

What to buy: Affordable fashion accessories

Location: 370 Alexandra Rd, Singapore 159953 Find on map

Timing: 10 AM to 10 PM

Shopping in Singapore - Little India

Little India

Shopping Street

What to buy: Indian clothing and accessories

Location: Little India, Singapore Find on map

Timings: 10 AM to 9 PM

Shopping in Singapore - Bugis Street

Bugis Street

Shopping Street

What to buy: Budget shopping

Location: New Bugis Street, Singapore Find on map

Timings: 10 AM to 8 PM

Shopping in Singapore - The Editor’s Market

The Editor’s Market

Budget shopping outlet

What to buy: Accessories and clothing

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

Timings: 10:30 AM to 10 PM

Shopping in Singapore - City Plaza

City Plaza

Shopping mall

What to buy: Accessories and clothing

Location: 810 Geylang Rd, Singapore 409286 Find on map

Timing: 10 AM to 10 PM

Shopping in Singapore - Lucky Plaza

Lucky Plaza

Shopping mall

What to buy: Clothing and accessories

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

Timing: 10 AM to 10 PM

Shopping in Singapore: Essentials

Shopping in Singapore - Payment Method

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.
Shopping in Singapore - Best Time to Visit Singapore

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.
Shopping in Singapore - Singapore Restaurants
  • 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
Shopping in Singapore - Metro

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.

Shopping in Singapore - Shopping Tips in Singapore
  • 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

What are the best things to buy 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.

What are the best souvenirs in Singapore?

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

What are the major modes of payment in Singapore?

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.

What is the famous shopping street in Singapore?

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

Which part of Singapore is famous for shopping?

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

What is the best thing to shop for in Singapore?

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

What is the most popular shopping Center 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.

What should I buy only 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.

What are the best malls to go shopping in in Singapore?

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

What are the best markets to go shopping in Singapore?

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

What is the major shopping street in Singapore called?

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

What are the best things to buy for kids in Singapore?

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.