Are you a self-proclaimed shopaholic planning a trip to Singapore? Prepare yourself for a retail paradise! From glitzy megamalls to colourful street markets, Singapore's shopping scene is one of the best in the world, and whether you're looking for big-name brands and luxury goods or hunting down unique souvenirs, there's something to tempt every shopper.
At Crown Currency Exchange, we know that you want to spend more time enjoying your shopping trip rather than working out the best places to go. So, we've put together this complete guide to help you out! Here, you'll find a list of the items you absolutely have to pick up on a trip to Singapore, along with a collection of must-visit shopping destinations. All you need to worry about is making sure there's enough room in your suitcase for all those irresistible purchases!
What to Buy When Shopping in Singapore
Before we start looking at some of the best places to go shopping in Singapore, let's take a moment to look at some fantastic items to add to your Singaporean shopping list, along with how much you can expect to pay for them.
Kaya Jam
If you're looking to start your mornings the Singaporean way, you need to buy some kaya jam. This delicious spread is made from coconut and egg and its sweet flavour and creamy texture is perfect for toast, as well as incorporating into baked goods. Grab a few jars to bring the taste of breakfasts in Singapore back home and to give as gifts.
Kaya ham isn't very expensive at all, which is another reason why it makes an ideal gift, and a jar will set you back around $5 SGD Singapore Dollars ($5.50 AUD).
Peranakan Porcelain
Peranakan porcelain is a must-buy for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance and heritage to their home, and these beautifully crafted ceramics are available in a plethora of intricate designs and vibrant colours. Some pieces are also designed to tell stories about Singapore's history, making them a really special memento of your trip.
Prices vary, depending on what you're buying, but you can find some affordable individual pieces for around $29 SGD ($32 AUD). On the other end of the scale, an entire Peranakan porcelain dinner set can cost up to $800 SGD ($892 AUD).
Jewellery
You'll find a dazzling array of jewellery on sale in Singapore, from traditional gold and jade pieces to more contemporary designs. There are so many places to find jewellery, too, including markets and high-end boutiques, but one of the most popular jewellery-shopping destinations in Chinatown Street Market, where you'll find something for every taste and budget.
Naturally, jewellery prices vary, depending on what you're buying. For instance, a simple set of gold earrings from a market might cost around $200 SGD ($225 AUD), while an intricate necklace with diamonds from a high-end designer can set you back as much as $9,500 SGD ($10,600 AUD).
Miniature Merlion Statues
No trip to Singapore is complete without picking up a miniature Merlion statue. This iconic half-lion, half-fish creature is a mascot of Singapore, and the miniature versions represent the 8.6-metre tall statues located in Merlion Park where you'll find them with water spouting from their mouths.
These make pretty inexpensive souvenirs, and most markets sell miniature Merlion statues for around $2.00 SGD ($2.20 AUD) each, so they're ideal if you've got many people to buy for but want to keep your budget in check.
Singaporean Skincare Products
Singaporean skincare products are well-known for being high-quality and they're specially formulated to deal with tropical climates, so they're perfect for maintaining that holiday glow long after you've left the island. Likewise, they're a must-have for anyone who loves beauty products and wants to try new things.
The prices of skincare and beauty products in Singapore varies, depending on what you buy and where you buy it from. You can find some inexpensive items in boutiques and markets, while prices for luxury brands will be much higher. As such, it's worth shopping around and comparing prices.
Traditional Clothes
From cheongsams to saris, the fashion scene in Singapore is as vibrant as the rest of the culture, and investing in some traditional clothes is a great way of experience the heritage and grabbing some souvenirs. Depending on where you shop, you may even be able to find some one-of-a-kind clothing created by local artisans, particularly in markets.
If you're tempted by a beautifully-crafted cheongsam, you can expect to pay around $26 SDG ($30 AUD) at a market, while a sari can cost up to $44 SDG ($50 AUD). It's all about where you buy it from and how expertly-made they clothing is.
Souvenirs
Of course, you can't leave Singapore without a variety of kitsch souvenirs to hand to your friends and family. From keychains and magnets to T-shirts and postcards, there are loads of cool souvenirs that make perfect keepsakes of your adventures through Singapore.
Don't expect these to be too expensive, and you'll find some excellent items for just a few Singapore Dollars. The variety is awesome, too, and you'll find souvenirs depicting famous landmarks, scenes, and even some dedicated to the famous Singapore sling cocktail.
Best Markets in Singapore
But where can you find these fabulous items? Singapore has a plethora of different places to go shopping, and we're going to show you some of our favourites below, starting with the famous Singaporean markets.
Bugis Street Market
Whether you're on the hunt for clothes or accessories, Bugis Street Market is an excellent shopping destination for anyone looking for unique and traditional clothes. There are also food stalls here selling ready-made local delicacies, which is ideal when you need a break from shopping, ready to hit the stalls again fully refuelled. Getting here is easy, too, as it's conveniently located close to Burgis MRT Station.
Chinatown Street Market
Walking through Chinatown Street Market is like stepping into a different world, filled with colours, scents, and sounds. This is the perfect place to pick up some interesting souvenirs like miniature Merlion statues and Peranakan porcelain, as well as beautifully-decorated Chinese lanterns and unique trinkets.
Little India Arcade
Located on Serangoon Road, Little India Arcade is one of the most incredible shopping destinations you'll ever find. As you step into this market, you'll be greeted by an array of colourful saris, sparkling jewellery, and aromatic spices, along with the sound of Bollywood music and the smell of Indian street food filling the air. Whether you're after traditional clothing or cooking ingredients, this is a must-visit market on a trip to Singapore.
Tiong Bahru Market
Known for its fantastic food stalls and bustling wet market, Tiong Bahru Market is a must-visit for foodies. Upstairs, you'll find a hawker centre filling the air with the scent of char kway teow and chicken rice - ideal if you want to sample some of Singapore's best local dishes. Then, when you're inspired by these meals, head downstairs and pick up some fresh produce to recreate them back at your self-catering accommodation.
Best Shopping Malls in Singapore
Singapore's markets are a great place to find unique treasures and items crafted by locals, but when you want something a little more modern or upscale, a trip to a shopping mall is in order! Here are some of the best shopping malls you can visit when in Singapore.
ION Orchard
Located right in the heart of Orchard Road, ION Orchard is home to over 300 retail, dining, and entertainment stores. You'll find a real mix of options here, including luxury goods like Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Dior, alongside popular high street brands like Zara and H&M. This building itself is also an architectural marvel and as night comes, a stunning light display lights the mall up in style.
The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
If you're looking for a truly luxurious shopping experience, you have to visit The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. Here, you'll find a wide selection of upscale brands, including Chanel, Gucci, and Hermes, as well as stores selling luxury beauty products. The mall also features its very own canal complete, with the opportunity for gondola rides, and each night a light and water show takes place right outside the main entrance.
Funan Mall
This is the place to visit if you're a tech enthusiast looking for modern, cutting-edge gadgets. That's not all that's on offer at Funan Mall, though, and you can also enjoy exploring fitness gear stores and, if you're feeling adventurous, climb the indoor rock wall! This mall also has a rooftop urban farm and cycling paths, making it perfect for anyone looking to mix retail therapy with recreation.
Jewel Changi Airport
Imagine walking through a lush indoor forest while looking up at the world's largest indoor waterfall (the Rain Vortex), which cascades down seven storeys. This is what you'll find at Jewel Changi Airport. Of course, you're here to shop, and you'll find a mix of international brands across various genres, as well as some incredible dining options. This is definitely one to visit if you're looking for some unforgettable shopping experiences.
Best Specialty Stores in Singapore
The Singapore shopping experience isn't just about markets and malls - it's also about discovering charming, unique stores that offer something a little different. Here are some of our favourite specialty stores that are definitely worth visiting.
The Analog Vault
For music lovers and vinyl enthusiasts, a trip to The Analog Vault is a must. Located within the Esplanade Mall, this little store sells a carefully curated selection of records spanning various genres, as well as music related books and magazines.
Kki Sweets
This amazing dessert shop specialises in creating beautiful Japanese-inspired French mousse cakes, making it the ideal destination for anyone with a sweet tooth. Each creation at Kki Sweets is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds, and with flavours ranging from light and fruity to rich and chocolatey, there's an option for everyone.
The Paper Bunny
If you love both stationery and stylish accessories, you need to visit The Paper Bunny in Funan Mall. Here, you'll find a huge range of beautifully designed planners, notebooks, handbags, towels and more. This really is the perfect place to find a thoughtful gift or treat yourself to something special.
Cat Socrates
Named after the store's much-loved resident cat, Cat Socrates offers an eclectic mix of books, home decor, stationery, and local artisan products. It's easy to spend hours exploring all the delights here, and whether you're looking for a quirky gift or a beautiful piece of local art, you'll find something truly unique here.
Best Places for Clothes Shopping in Singapore
Haji Lane
This narrow, colourful street in Kampong Glam is a shopping haven for fashion lovers, and you'll find independent boutiques filled with indie clothing, vintage gems, and handmade accessories. There are several street art cafes along Haji Lane, too, making this the perfect spot for an Instagram-worthy shopping spree.
Plaza Singapura
You'll find a wide range of fashion options at Plaza Singapura, from high street brands like Uniqlo and Cotton On to trendy local boutiques. The layout of this shopping mall is also straightforward, making it easy to explore all of the stores, and when you're done shopping, you can relax at one of the many restaurants or even catch a movie at the in-house cinema.
VivoCity
As Singapore's largest shopping mall, VivoCity is the ultimate destination for fashion enthusiasts. With a vast array of stores ranging from international brands like Zara, H&M, and Mango to local designers, there's something for everyone here, and while you shop, you can take in the views across the harbour and Sentosa Island.
Far East Plaza
Located on Orchard Road, Far East Plaza is known for its affordable prices, eclectic mix of stores, and bohemian vibe. It's a particular favourite among teenagers and young adults shopping for the latest trends without breaking the bank, and from funky streetwear to cool accessories, you can find it all here.
Top Tip: Some stores in Singapore will accept credit or debit cards, but cash is always the preferred method of payment, so make sure you have plenty in your wallet! You can find the best rates on AUD to SGD here.
Tips for Shopping in Singapore
With so many exciting shopping opportunities to discover, it can be super tempting to hit the streets the second you land and get to travel shopping in Singapore. But, before you do, it's important you understand the certain cultural and practical nuances of shopping here. Here are our top tips for ensuring your Singaporean shopping experience is as smooth as possible.
Shopping Etiquette and Cultural Sensitivity
Firstly, Singapore is a melting pot of different cultures, and it's important to remain mindful of local customs and etiquette. For example, while Singapore is quite cosmopolitan, you still need to dress modestly, especially if you're visiting markets.
On the subject of markets, haggling is common at places like Bugis Street Market and Chinatown, but make sure you approach bargaining with a friendly attitude and be respectful if the seller isn't willing to lower their price. Likewise, haggling is not the norm in malls or high-end stores, so don't attempt it!
Singaporeans are also very orderly, and queuing is a big part of the culture, so whether you're waiting for a fitting room or to pay for your goods, always join the line and wait your turn. Politeness goes a long way in Singapore, too, so make sure you always greet the vendor with a smile and a friendly "Hello".
There are also four main languages in Singapore (English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil), but it's worth picking up a few basic phrases outside of English to show your appreciation and respect for the country's heritage.
Practical Advice for Shopping in Singapore
Along with respecting Singapore's culture while you're out exploring the amazing shopping scene, you need to apply some practical thinking to your experience as well. Firstly, think about the best time to go shopping.
Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, especially during the day, so if you'd rather have a little more space while you shop, aim for Monday to Friday between 10 am and 4 pm. Also, if you're looking for sales and discounts, it's best to visit during the Great Singapore Sale, which usually runs from June to August.
Tourists to Singapore can also enjoy tax-free shopping by claiming a Goods and Services Tax (GST) refund on purchases over $100 SGD ($112 AUD), which is a great way of keeping more money in your pocket. Most stores participate in this program, and it's really easy to claim your money back, too - simply keep your receipts and hand them over at the airport before your flight home.
Singapore's climate can be hot and humid, especially places without air conditioning, like outdoor markets. With this in mind, make sure you carry a water bottle with you to keep hydrated throughout the day, and it's also a good idea to wear comfortable clothing and footwear to avoid getting over heated or hurting your feet while you explore!
You should also be cautious of "tourist traps" in Singapore. Shops in tourist-heavy areas often charge inflated prices, but you can avoid overpaying for items by shopping in local markets and boutiques that cater to residents rather than tourists. Also, don't be afraid to ask the locals where to shop, as they'll likely point you in the direction of a reputable, less-expensive retailer.
Budget Your Money for Shopping in Singapore
Before your trip, think about how much you're willing to spend when shopping in Singapore and then create a budget that you stick to religiously. This will help you prioritise your purchases, focus on what you truly want or need, and avoid impulse buying - the costs of which can quickly add up and eat into your travel money.
In terms of prioritising, the best thing to do is make a list of items you want to buy and then rank them in order of importance. Focus on the essentials and must-haves first, like souvenirs, gifts, or specific clothing you've had your eye on. Once you've bought these items, you can work out how much of your budget is left to spend on other items.
We've touched on this a little above, but if you're in Singapore between June and August, you'll be able to grab some awesome bargains as the Great Singapore Sale will be taking place. However, this isn't the only sale season, and you can also find some heavily reduced items around Christmas and New Year if you keep an eye out.
Get the Best Rates on Singapore Dollars at Crown Currency
From some of the biggest shopping malls on the planet to busy local markets filled with quirky items, the Singaporean shopping scene is diverse and really does have something for everyone. But, to enjoy it to its fullest, it's best to shop using cash. That way, you aren't limited to what you can buy or where you can shop, and you also won't be charged an expensive International Transaction Fee by your bank!
At Crown Currency, you'll find the best rates on AUD to SGD with zero commission fees and no hidden costs, keeping more money in your wallet to enjoy your shopping experience with. Chat with our expert team at one of our many locations today, and we'll set you on the road to your Singapore shopping adventure!
