Orchard Road

Orchard Road is the best-known shopping street in Singapore. It runs for over two kilometres through the city, lined with large malls, department stores, hotels and tall trees. Walking along it is free, and you can easily spend a whole day here.

It is also a good place to escape the heat. Many malls are air-conditioned and linked by underground walkways.

What is Orchard Road and why visit

The road takes its name from the fruit orchards and spice plantations that grew in the area in the 1800s. Today it is the centre of shopping in Singapore. You will find everything from global luxury brands to local labels, bookshops and food halls.

Even if you are not a big shopper, Orchard Road is worth a visit. The wide pavements are shaded by trees, and there is plenty of space to walk. Many malls have food courts and restaurants for every budget.

What to see and do on Orchard Road

• Shopping malls: Large malls such as ION Orchard, Ngee Ann City and Paragon sit along the main stretch.
• Department stores: Long-running stores like Tangs and Takashimaya are popular with visitors.
• Emerald Hill: A quiet side street near Somerset with rows of restored terrace houses.
• Food halls: Most malls have a basement food area with local and international dishes.
• Christmas lights: The street is usually decorated with lights from November to early January.

Read our Orchard Road neighbourhood guide and our guide to shopping malls for more detail. The official Orchard Road website lists events and shops.

How to get to Orchard Road

Three stations on the North South Line run along the street. Orchard station is at the busiest stretch, near ION Orchard and Ngee Ann City. Somerset station is in the middle. Dhoby Ghaut station is at the eastern end, near Plaza Singapura. Orchard Boulevard station on the Thomson-East Coast Line is handy for the western end.

Many malls are linked by underground passages, so you can walk between them out of the sun and rain. If you are new to the trains, see our guide on how to use the MRT in Singapore.

Tips for visiting Orchard Road

• Start at one end and walk to the other. Then take the MRT back.
• Visit on a weekday if you can. Weekends and public holidays are much busier.
• Bring your passport if you plan to shop. Tourists may be able to claim a tax refund on some purchases.
• Carry water and an umbrella, as the weather can change quickly.
• Smoking is only allowed in marked smoking areas along the street.

Learn how to claim back sales tax in our GST refund at Changi Airport guide.

Food and hotels nearby

There is food for every budget on Orchard Road. For a special meal, try Les Amis, a French fine-dining restaurant in Shaw Centre on Scotts Road. For more choice, browse restaurants in Orchard and River Valley.

Staying here puts you close to the shops and the MRT. Popular options include Pan Pacific Orchard, Grand Hyatt Singapore and Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel. See all hotels in Orchard and River Valley, or compare areas in Marina Bay vs Orchard.

The Singapore Botanic Gardens are a short bus or taxi ride from the western end of the street. For more ideas, see our list of top attractions and our free things to do.

FAQs about Orchard Road

Is Orchard Road free to visit?

Yes. Walking along the street and into the malls is free.

Which MRT station is best for Orchard Road?

Orchard station is best for the busiest part of the street. Somerset and Dhoby Ghaut stations serve the middle and the eastern end. Orchard Boulevard station is close to the western end.

When are the Christmas lights on Orchard Road?

The lights usually go up in November and stay on until early January. Check the official website for this year's dates.

Can tourists get a tax refund on Orchard Road?

Many shops take part in the tourist refund scheme. Ask in store and keep your passport with you.