Souvenir Guides

Gifts that say Singapore: edible souvenirs, Peranakan crafts and local design, and where to buy each.

Looking for Singapore souvenirs that are more than a fridge magnet? This page covers edible gifts, Peranakan crafts and local design, and where to buy each one. Any guides on the topic appear in the list below. Under the list, our full guide explains what travels well and what to check before you pack.

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The best Singapore souvenirs to take home

The best Singapore souvenirs remind you of what you ate, saw and heard on your trip. Food gifts are the most popular, from coconut jam to local coffee. Peranakan crafts and local design make longer-lasting presents. You can find most of them in Chinatown, Bugis, Little India, the malls and at Changi Airport.

Edible souvenirs

Kaya

Kaya is a sweet jam made with coconut milk, eggs and sugar. Locals spread it on toast with butter for breakfast. There are two main styles: brown Hainanese kaya and green Nyonya kaya, coloured with pandan leaf. Read Hainanese vs Nyonya Kaya: Brown or Green Coconut Jam to pick your favourite. Try it fresh first at Ya Kun Kaya Toast (Far East Square) or Killiney Kopitiam. Jars are sold in many shops and supermarkets. Check the label, as some kaya must be kept cold.

Local coffee and tea

Kopi is Singapore's local coffee. The beans are traditionally roasted with sugar and margarine, which gives a dark, rich taste. Packs of kopi powder and easy coffee bags make light gifts. Learn the local terms with How to Order Kopi in Singapore Without Getting Lost. For tea, TWG Tea is a Singapore brand that sells gift tins in malls and at the airport.

Sweet treats and snacks

Pineapple tarts. Buttery pastries filled with pineapple jam. They are popular gifts around Chinese New Year.
Kueh. Small traditional cakes, often made with rice flour, coconut and pandan. Many are best eaten within a day or two, so buy them near the end of your trip. Bengawan Solo sells boxed cakes and kueh, including at the airport.
Kueh lapis. A rich, many-layered cake that keeps better than most kueh.
Salted egg snacks. Crisps and fish skin coated in salted egg yolk are a popular modern snack.
Bak kwa. Sweet, thin slices of dried meat, sold in Chinatown. Many countries do not allow meat products in luggage, so check first.
Sauce and spice kits. Ready-made pastes for laksa, chilli crab and curry let you cook local dishes at home.

Crafts and design gifts

Peranakan pieces. Beaded slippers, embroidered kebaya blouses, patterned tiles and porcelain in bright colours. Peranakan culture blends Chinese and Malay influences. Learn the story at the Peranakan Museum, then shop in Katong. Kim Choo Kueh Chang is a Peranakan spot in the area.
Tiger Balm. This well-known herbal ointment is sold in pharmacies and souvenir shops. The brothers behind it built Haw Par Villa, a park full of statues and scenes from Chinese folk tales.
Orchid gifts. The orchid is Singapore's national flower. Look for orchid prints, scarves and jewellery, including real orchids coated in gold.
Merlion keepsakes. The Merlion, a lion's head on a fish's body, is a symbol of Singapore. See the real statue at Merlion Park, then pick up a keyring or figure.
Local design. Prints, tote bags and stationery that show shophouses and hawker food. Browse Local Brands & Boutiques.

Where to buy Singapore souvenirs

Chinatown. Street stalls around Pagoda Street sell souvenirs, tea and dried foods at low prices. See our Chinatown topic.
Bugis Street. Bugis Street is a covered market with cheap souvenirs, T-shirts and keyrings.
Little India. Spices, incense, bangles and textiles. Read Little India Arcade Guide: Shops, Snacks and Henna.
Supermarkets. Good for kaya, coffee, sauce kits and snacks at everyday prices.
Changi Airport. Many local food and gift brands have shops in the terminals. It is handy for last-minute gifts.

For more places to browse, see our Markets & Bazaars topic.

Packing and customs tips

Liquids and spreads. Jars of kaya and sauces count as liquids in hand luggage. Pack larger jars in your checked bag and wrap them well.
Shelf life. Check the expiry date. Fresh kueh and some kaya do not last long.
Customs rules. Many countries limit meat, eggs, fresh fruit and plants. Check your home country's rules before you buy.
Durian. This strong-smelling fruit is not allowed on the MRT, and many hotels ban it too. Sealed durian sweets are an easier gift.
Tax refunds. Bigger buys may qualify for a GST refund. Read GST Refund at Changi Airport: Step-by-Step Guide.

Our Packing Lists topic has more tips for the flight home.

FAQs about Singapore souvenirs

What is the most popular souvenir from Singapore?

Kaya, local coffee and Merlion keepsakes are among the most popular. Peranakan crafts and orchid gifts suit something more special.

Can I take kaya on a plane?

Yes, but jars over the liquids limit must go in your checked bag. Wrap them well and check your home country's food rules.

Where can I buy cheap souvenirs in Singapore?

Chinatown street stalls and Bugis Street have low prices, especially if you buy several items. Supermarkets are good for food gifts.

Can I bring bak kwa home?

It depends on your country. Many places ban meat products in luggage, so check the rules before you buy.