Singapore Shopping Guides

Shopping in Singapore: what to expect

Shopping in Singapore is easy, safe and mostly air-conditioned. You will find global brands, local designers, street markets and huge department stores. Many malls sit above or next to MRT stations, so you can stay out of the heat and rain. In malls, prices are fixed and clearly marked.

Most shops take cards and contactless payment. Small market stalls may prefer cash, so carry some Singapore dollars. Prices usually include GST, Singapore's goods and services tax. Visitors can often claim this tax back on eligible purchases.

The best areas to shop

Orchard Road

Orchard Road is Singapore's main shopping street. Large malls line both sides, with fashion, beauty and electronics. Many have food courts in the basement. See the Orchard Road neighbourhood topic and Cheap Eats on Orchard Road: Mall Basements and Food Courts. To stay close by, browse Hotels in Orchard & River Valley.

Marina Bay

The waterfront malls around Marina Bay are strong on luxury labels, watches and jewellery. The Luxury Shopping topic covers flagship stores and big-ticket buys.

Bugis and Kampong Glam

Bugis Street is a busy covered market with low-cost clothes, accessories and souvenirs. Nearby, Kampong Glam & Haji Lane has small independent boutiques, textile shops and perfume stores in old shophouses. A shophouse is a narrow terrace building with a shop below and rooms above.

Little India and Chinatown

In Little India, Mustafa Centre is a huge store selling gold, electronics, groceries and spices. Little India Arcade Guide: Shops, Snacks and Henna covers the smaller shops nearby. Chinatown's street stalls sell souvenirs, tea and dried foods. See the Chinatown topic.

Jewel Changi Airport

Jewel Changi Airport mixes shops and restaurants with the Rain Vortex, a huge indoor waterfall. It is open to the public, so you can visit before a flight.

What to buy: souvenirs that say Singapore

• Kaya. A sweet jam made with coconut and egg, often eaten on toast. Read What Is Kaya Toast? Singapore's Classic Breakfast Explained.
• Bak kwa. Sweet, thin slices of dried meat. It is very popular around Chinese New Year.
• Local coffee and tea. Kopi, the local coffee, is sold in ground packs and easy coffee bags.
• Peranakan crafts. Beaded slippers, tiles and ceramics in the bright Peranakan style. Peranakan culture blends Chinese and Malay influences.
• Pineapple tarts. Buttery pastries filled with pineapple jam, sold in gift boxes.
• Local design. Prints, books and homeware by Singapore makers. Browse Local Brands & Boutiques.

Check your home country's customs rules before you pack food. Some countries do not allow meat products such as bak kwa. See Souvenirs & Gifts for more gift ideas.

How tax-free shopping works

Tourists can claim back GST through the Tourist Refund Scheme. Here are the basic steps.

1. Shop at stores that show a tax-free sign. Ask for a tax refund at the till.
2. Show your passport. A minimum spend per shop applies, so check it before you pay.
3. At Changi Airport, use the self-service tax refund kiosks before you leave.
4. Have the goods with you, as officers may ask to see them.

Rules can change, so read the Tax-Free Shopping topic before your trip.

Tips for shopping in Singapore

• Bargaining. Prices are fixed in malls and department stores. At some markets, a polite ask for a discount is fine, but do not push.
• Electronics. Check that the warranty covers your home country. Singapore uses three-pin, UK-style plugs, so check chargers too. Ask for an itemised receipt. See Electronics & Gadgets.
• Timing. Malls stay open into the evening, which helps on hot days. Weekend afternoons are the busiest.
• Markets. Weekend flea markets and festive bazaars pop up across the island. See Markets & Bazaars.
• Malls. Each mall has its own focus, from teen fashion to home goods. Browse Shopping Malls to pick the right one.

FAQs about shopping in Singapore

Can tourists get a tax refund in Singapore?

Yes. Visitors can claim back GST on eligible purchases from shops in the Tourist Refund Scheme. A minimum spend applies, and you claim at the airport before you fly.

Where is the best place to shop in Singapore?

Orchard Road is best for malls and global brands. Bugis Street suits a small budget. Kampong Glam has independent boutiques, and Marina Bay focuses on luxury.

Can you bargain in Singapore?

Not in malls or chain stores, where prices are fixed. At some market stalls, a polite request for a small discount may work.

What are the best souvenirs from Singapore?

Kaya, local coffee, pineapple tarts and Peranakan crafts are popular choices. Check your home country's food rules before you pack edible gifts.

Is shopping in Singapore cheap?

Not especially. Mall prices are similar to other big cities. Markets and seasonal sales offer better value, and tax refunds help on larger buys.