Singapore may be a tiny dot on the map but when it comes to shopping, you’ll be spoilt for choice with options ranging from luxury to cultural treasures and affordable finds. From iconic malls to quaint neighbourhood stores, Singapore is a retail haven for tourists and locals alike.
If you’re visiting the city soon, I share some of the best shopping places in Singapore in this post! Read on if you’re into high-end brands, hidden gems, or unbeatable bargains!
Top shopping districts for tourists
Orchard Road: Singapore’s iconic shopping haven
If there’s one place that defines shopping in Singapore, it’s Orchard Road. Stretching over 2.2 kilometres, this iconic boulevard has transformed from a nutmeg plantation in the 1800s into a world-class shopping destination.
Today, it boasts a mix of luxury malls, historic landmarks, and contemporary stores, making it the number one shopping haven for tourists.
Below are some malls you should definitely check out while in the area!
ION Orchard
One of the most recognisable malls on Orchard Road is ION Orchard, an architectural masterpiece with a futuristic design. Spanning 8 levels, it houses high-end brands like Gucci, Prada, and Cartier, alongside mid-range stores.
ION Orchard also features ION Art, an art gallery showcasing local and international contemporary art. Its dining options and luxury concierge services make it a favourite among shoppers.
TANGS
TANGS is Singapore’s oldest department store, opened in 1932. This heritage-rich landmark seamlessly blends Eastern-style architecture with modern retail.
You can find a curated selection of local and international products, including homeware, beauty essentials, and fashion. Don’t miss their rooftop café, which provides a serene spot to unwind.
Takashimaya Shopping Centre
Located within Ngee Ann City, this 7-storey Japanese department store features premium brands, a gourmet supermarket, and an expansive bookshop, Kinokuniya.
The Takashimaya Food Hall is a culinary adventure, offering Japanese delicacies, international cuisine, and sweet treats. This is also where seasonal exhibitions and fairs are held, making it a lively retail hub.
You can also find local fashion gems like Beyond the Vines, The Editors Market and The Paper Bunny there. I’ve shared 23 Singaporean fashion brands in Singapore in another post, be sure to check it out!
Design Orchard
Design Orchard showcases Singapore’s creative spirit. Opened in 2019, this unique space features over 90 homegrown brands, offering everything from fashion to lifestyle products.
After indulging in some retail therapy, you can make your way to the rooftop garden to enjoy the stunning views of Orchard Road.
313@Somerset
Built-in 2009, 313@Somerset is a modern mall that appeals to younger shoppers. In the mall, you can find international brands like AAPE, Cotton On, Muji, New Era and Zara.
If you’re a sneaker and/or streetwear enthusiast, definitely check out Limited Edt and L.E. WAY while you’re there.
At Limited Edt, you can find an impressive selection of premium and limited-edition sneaks, including exclusive collaborations from top brands like Nike, Adidas, and New Balance.
L.E. Way offers stylish streetwear and athleisure apparel, along with accessories that reflect the latest urban fashion trends.
313@Somerset is walkable from ION Orchard, TANGS, Takashimaya Shopping Centre, and Design Orchard, making it another great spot for you to shop.
Suntec City
Suntec City is one of the largest malls in Singapore, and is designed with five interconnected wings—North Wing, East Wing, West Wing, Tower 1, and Tower 2. The wings are arranged around the iconic Fountain of Wealth, believed to bring prosperity and harmony.
Each wing is packed with retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, making Suntec City a dynamic shopping and lifestyle destination that caters to all your needs in one convenient location.
Even after visiting the mall many times, I still find myself getting lost among the different wings, which adds to its sense of adventure and exploration.
You can find a mix of local and international brands like Onitsuka Tiger, Salomon, and H&M, alongside unique stores like Harvey Norman for electronics and The Editor’s Market for contemporary fashion.
The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands is on the list of all tourists when they visit Singapore. The luxury mall features more than 170 high-end boutiques, including Louis Vuitton and Dior.
After all the retail therapy, you can unwind with afternoon tea at the renowned TWG Tea. TWG Tea is known for its premium packaging and high-quality tea and makes a great souvenir to bring back home.
If you’re looking for souvenirs, be sure to check out my post on the 10 must-buy souvenirs in Singapore!
Beyond retail, you can enjoy a gondola ride along the indoor canal or visit the iconic SkyPark for panoramic views of Singapore.
Bugis
Bugis Street Market is the ultimate destination for affordable souvenirs, tech gadgets, fashion, and cosmetics, boasting over 400 stalls offering unbeatable deals. It’s a wonderland for tourists and locals alike.
And it holds a special place in the hearts of many Singaporeans, mine included. Back in the day, it was the go-to spot for trendy clothes and snapping fun photos at photobooths. While Bugis Street Market has changed significantly over the years, its vibrant charm and bustling atmosphere remain just as captivating.
For modern retail options, head on over to Bugis Junction and Bugis+ where you can find international and local brands.
VivoCity
As the largest mall in Singapore, VivoCity spans over 1 million square feet and offers diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options. From high-street favourites to luxury stores, the mall has it all.
Food Republic at VivoCity is a highlight, where tourists can enjoy local dishes like nasi lemak, prawn noodles, and chicken rice. Conveniently located at HarbourFront, VivoCity is also the gateway to another popular tourist spot—Sentosa Island.
Jewel Changi Airport
No one leaves Singapore without visiting Jewel!
Its centrepiece is the stunning 40-metre Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Jewel is home to international retailers like Nike, Uniqlo, and Apple, making it perfect for shopping during a layover or while waiting for your flight home.
Its proximity to Changi Airport makes it appealing as a convenient yet extraordinary mall.
Best shopping places in the neighbourhood
If this isn’t your first time visiting Singapore, and you’re looking to shop beyond the major shopping districts, don’t miss out on exploring Singapore’s neighbourhood malls!
Often frequented by locals, they offer a similar range of stores found in the city’s top shopping areas but with a more laid-back and community-focused atmosphere.
Jurong East
For locals in the west, Jurong East is a shopping hotspot. The area features Jem and Westgate, two large malls located next to each other. Jem houses popular brands like Charles & Keith, H&M, Ikea, Love Bonito, and The Editor’s Market, while Westgate offers family-friendly facilities, including outdoor play areas.
Jem and Westgate are like the Orchard Road of the west, bringing the same vibrant shopping experience closer to residents.
Many of the popular brands found in Singapore’s top shopping districts can also be found here, making it a convenient alternative for those who prefer to shop closer to home.
Yishun
In the north, Northpoint City is the largest mall in Yishun. Known for its extensive layout, it offers retail, dining, and entertainment options, making it a favourite among locals. Its size can be overwhelming, but that’s part of its charm for shoppers who love variety.
Tampines
In the east, Tampines rivals Orchard Road with its three interconnected malls: Tampines 1, Century Square, and Tampines Mall.
These malls are conveniently located near Tampines MRT and offer a mix of fashion, lifestyle, and dining options for locals living in this neighbourhood.
Tampines 1 recently underwent renovations, introducing 68 more stores including food, fashion and lifestyle! Here is where you can find homegrown fashion brands like From There On and The Editor’s Market.
It truly is the ultimate shopping destination for locals who prefer to skip the trip to Orchard Road.
Paya Lebar
Paya Lebar is a bustling shopping hub with 3 key malls: Paya Lebar Quarter (PLQ), SingPost Centre, and Paya Lebar Square.
PLQ is a modern mixed-use development with a great mix of retail and dining. SingPost Centre is the place to go if you’re looking for unique eateries or want to catch a movie.
And if food is your priority, Paya Lebar Square has more dining options than shopping, making it the perfect spot to grab a meal after a day out.
Outlet malls
For bargain hunters, Singapore’s outlet malls are unbeatable.
Unlike regular malls, where you’ll find the latest collections at full price, outlet malls sell past-season items, factory overruns, and even exclusive outlet-only designs at significantly lower prices.
The most popular outlet malls are located at opposite ends of Singapore, so while they may take a bit more effort to get to, the huge savings and experience make the trip worthwhile.
IMM, located in the west, features over 100 stores offering year-round discounts of up to 80%. Popular brands include Coach, Adidas, and Onitsuka Tiger.
In the east, Changi City Point is another outlet mall where you can find discounted fashion, sportswear, and electronics.
If you have time on your last day in Singapore, I’d recommend checking it out since it’s conveniently located near the airport—perfect for some last-minute shopping before your flight.
Locals’ favourite shopping places
New Bahru
New Bahru is a unique lifestyle destination celebrating Singapore’s vibrant creative scene.
Once a school, this space has been transformed into a hub for homegrown brands, offering everything from fashion and home décor to speciality coffee and artisanal goods.
The name “Bahru” means “new” in Malay, so calling it “New Bahru” is quite amusing—when translated into English, it literally means “New New”!
I can’t help but find it funny how the name unintentionally doubles up on the word “new.”
This stylish retail and cultural space is home to many well-loved local brands like GoodAddition, Soilboy, SOJAO and Curious Creatures.
Haji Lane
Haji Lane, Singapore’s original hipster street, is a treasure trove of vintage clothing, handcrafted jewellery, and vibrant murals.
Some of my favourite stores to visit there are Goodluck Bunch and Vintagewknd! If you’re in the area, definitely check out Haji Lane!
Katong/Joo Chiat
Katong and Joo Chiat have become increasingly popular for those looking to shop beyond the usual malls. This vibrant district is home to a diverse range of stores selling homeware, home décor, vinyl records, fashion, and all things lifestyle.
If you’re a vinyl enthusiast, you’ll find gems at stores like Retrocrates, Cherry Lane Records, The Barbershop Music, Choice Cut Pizza and Records, and The Panic Room.
For vintage lovers, the Katong Square Vintage Flea Market is an exciting event to check out. The upcoming flea markets are scheduled for 7-9 February and 21-23 February, offering a treasure trove of retro finds, collectables, and antiques.
You can also visit their Facebook page for updates on future dates. If you happen to be in Singapore during these events, it’s definitely worth a visit!
After a fulfilling shopping spree, take a break at one of the many charming cafés in the area.
Katong and Joo Chiat are well-known for their thriving café culture, making them a favourite weekend hangout spot for locals looking to enjoy great coffee and desserts in a laid-back atmosphere.
Little India
Right in the heart of Little India, Mustafa Centre stands as an iconic six-storey department store that never sleeps.
Open 24 hours a day, it’s the go-to spot for locals who prefer late-night grocery runs when the crowds are thinner.
The sheer variety of products here is astounding—you can literally find anything you need, from groceries, perfumes, and electronics to clothing, watches, and souvenirs, all at affordable prices.
If you’ve over-shopped and need extra luggage, Mustafa Centre has you covered—it’s almost as if they anticipate that you’ll need more space! You could easily spend an entire day wandering through the aisles, discovering new finds at every corner.
Beyond the department store, the surrounding shops in Little India are also worth exploring, offering beautifully woven saris, fragrant spices, and traditional Indian accessories, adding to the cultural charm of the area.
Queensway Shopping Centre
If you ask any local where to shop for sports gear, Queensway Shopping Centre will likely be the first name that comes up.
Known as Singapore’s sporting goods paradise, this old-school mall has been around since the 1970s, making it one of the country’s oldest shopping centres.
Despite its age, it remains the go-to place for sports-related equipment, running shoes, and even limited-edition apparel that you won’t easily find elsewhere.
Growing up, my parents used to bring me here to buy running shoes and sports gear, and even today, it’s still the best spot for quality sporting goods at great prices.
Some notable stores include Western Corp, famous for its competitive deals on branded sportswear. The Liverpool Official Store is also a must-visit for football fans looking for jerseys and merchandise.
Whether you’re an athlete, a sneaker enthusiast, or just love a good bargain, Queensway Shopping Centre is a treasure trove worth exploring.
Conclusion
Singapore may be small, but its shopping scene is anything but.
Whether you’re splurging on designer labels at Marina Bay Sands, exploring trendy fashion in Orchard Road, or hunting for bargains at Bugis Street Market, there’s no shortage of retail therapy here.
No matter what kind of shopper you are, Singapore truly lives up to its reputation as a shopper’s paradise. So whether you’re here for a short visit or a local looking for new places to explore, there’s always another great shopping spot waiting to be discovered!