Singapore is a global hub of culture, innovation, and commerce, is also a shopper’s paradise. From traditional souvenirs to modern tech gadgets, the Lion City offers a variety of unique items for every traveler. Singapore’s market offers the best things to buy at the lowest prices.
You’ll find everything you need here, including beautiful batik patterns, custom clothing by Singapore’s top designers, and small souvenirs of Singapore to give to loved ones back home.
Singaporeans are masters of business administration. The combination of ultra-high-end luxury shopping malls and more conventional marketplaces shows how much the Lion City’s locals love to buy.
Are you ready to explore some of the best things to buy in Singapore.? Check out this list to decide what to buy in Singapore.
Best Things To Buy in Singapore
1. Merlion Souvenirs
You don’t need to wonder what that peculiar creature that keeps showing up in city-state logos and statues is. The “Merlion” is exactly what it sounds like a mermaid with a lion’s head instead of a maiden’s.
Originally created by Alec Fraser-Brunner in the 1960s, this legendary creature serves as Singapore’s mascot and can be found almost anywhere, including in literature, art, and sporting events. Due to the large number of fishing communities grouped around the shore, this area was known as “Temasek,” or “sea town,” in Javanese, centuries before it became the cutting-edge center it is today. In contrast, “Singapura,” the name from which Singapore was eventually formed, means “Lion City” in direct translation.
Because it acknowledges both of these factors, the Merlion is a fantastic souvenir to remember your trip here. You can easily find Merlion souvenirs in any of the main commercial areas.
2. Singapore Slings
The ‘Singapore Sling’ is the city-state’s national drink, which was invented in the 1930s by a bartender at the Raffles Hotel Long Bar. The original constituents of this widely consumed beverage were gin, orange juice, lime juice, pineapple juice, and cherry brandy. There are numerous recipes for this well-known drink accessible today, which makes it a fantastic present for friends and family.
Spend your final day shopping and enjoy discovering Singapore’s well-known markets that provide cutlery, crafts, and interior art. On your way back, don’t forget to get some keepsakes.
3. Malay Jewelry
Glamorous Singaporeans of the 1950s and 1960s enjoyed dressing with striking gold bangles, frequently adorned with rose-cut diamonds and other priceless jewels. These ornate statement items usually showcase master craftsmen’s meticulously detailed workmanship.
These days, authentic vintage Peranakan intan jewelry is highly popular again, as are more modern accessories created by up-and-coming Malaysian and Singaporean designers.
Original specimens should be found by reputable antique sellers in the Lion City. Although fine pieces can cost a lot of money, their charm never goes out of style.
The Straits Finery offers effortlessly elegant bracelets, necklaces, and earrings for customers looking for something a little softer and simple.
4. Bakkwa
Travelers are in for a true treat if they haven’t had the opportunity to try this completely addictive jerky. Bakkwa, sometimes referred to as rougan, originated in mainland China and initially served as a way to preserve meat for lengthy trips or the winter.
Traditionally, it consisted of pork, lamb, or beef cured with soy sauce, salt, spices, and sugar, which was then air-dried until it was hard but yet malleable.
Bakkwa is now a common snack in Singapore and Malaysia. During festivities like Chinese New Year, when the cost soars, it is usually eaten and traditionally presented as a gift to family and friends.
5. Durian Candies
Durian, known as the “king of fruits,” has a distinctive taste and aroma that you either love or find overwhelming. For those who enjoy its rich, creamy flavor, durian candies are a fantastic souvenir.
Durian candies are an accessible and portable way to savor this iconic fruit without worrying about its strong smell. They’re available at most supermarkets and specialty stores across Singapore. Even for the durian skeptics, these candies are worth a try as they tone down the fruit’s intense flavor while retaining its essence.
6. Kaya Jam
Kaya jam is a Singaporean breakfast staple made from coconut milk, eggs, sugar, and pandan leaves. It’s commonly spread on toast and paired with soft-boiled eggs and coffee, forming the iconic “kaya toast breakfast.”
Because of its huge popularity, every visitor has a chance to try it and is undoubtedly impressed by the flavor that Kaya spread offers. In Singapore, buying it as a souvenir is very common.
You can purchase jars of kaya jam from local brands like Ya Kun Kaya. It’s an excellent edible souvenir that allows you to relive a slice of Singaporean culture at home.
7. Asian Artefacts
Singapore’s vibrant multicultural heritage makes it a treasure trove for unique Asian artifacts. From traditional Chinese tea sets and Japanese ceramics to Indian brassware and Peranakan-style ornaments, there’s no shortage of options for collectors and culture enthusiasts.
Explore areas like Chinatown or Little India for the best finds. These artifacts not only serve as beautiful home decor but also as a way to remember Singapore’s rich cultural diversity. In Singapore, these are the most common items to buy in Singapore.
8. Singapore Pressed Pennies
Pressed pennies are a great choice if you are unsure of what to get your friends or want to bring souvenirs for yourself and your family when it’s time to return home and make lifelong memories from Singapore. These long coins with recognizable designs imprinted on them make great memories for souvenirs.
Visitors can create their own pressed penny mementos by using automatic penny flattening machines that are placed at various tourist locations. They’re easy to carry and serve as a unique memory of your trip.
9. Laksa Spice Paste
Undoubtedly Singapore’s ultimate comfort food is a warm bowl of laksa. It’s frequently claimed that Singaporeans are addicted eaters, and the Lion City just cannot survive without this dish of delicious noodles soaking in a rich, complexly spiced coconut broth.
The dish laksa has roots in many different cultures, just like Singapore itself. Although it originated in Malaysia, regional varieties are enjoyed throughout Singapore and in some parts of Indonesia.
A spice paste consisting of dried shrimp, candlenuts, galangal, lemongrass, and chilies, among other ingredients, is what gives laksa its strong, nuanced flavor.
Freshly prepared laksa from a Singaporean hawker center is irreplaceable, but visitors may get a sense of the experience by grabbing a jar to take home.
10. Fashion by Singaporean Designers
Singapore boasts a growing fashion scene with homegrown designers making waves internationally. Brands like Charles & Keith, Ong Shunmugam, and In Good Company showcase modern and chic designs inspired by Asian aesthetics.
Whether you’re looking for stylish footwear, contemporary clothing, or unique accessories, these local brands offer high-quality pieces perfect for a wardrobe update.
11. Tiger Balm
Anyone who has traveled to Southeast Asia can attest to Tiger Balm’s remarkable ability to relieve sinus congestion and muscle aches and pains.
This anti-inflammatory, which is incredibly common, momentarily relieves pain by combining menthol, camphor, cajuput oil, and clove oil with other substances.
You can apply it to your forehead or temples to relieve a headache, or you can apply it to your chest, back, or any pulled or strained muscles. You’ll always find a need for Tiger Balm, so get some pots to take home.
12. Gold Plated Orchids
Singapore is known for its exquisite orchids, and what better way to preserve their beauty than through gold-plated orchid accessories? These real orchids are plated with 24K gold and crafted into pendants, brooches, and earrings.
The ultimate luxury present for a special person. Since they are among the most beautiful and genuine souvenirs, they are a little more expensive, requiring a somewhat larger shopping budget.
They make for elegant gifts that symbolize Singapore’s national flower. You can find them in specialty stores or at Changi Airport’s duty-free shops.
13. Peranakan Tiles
From Malacca to Phuket, the Peranakans—also referred to as Straits Chinese or Baba-Nyonya—were a group of seafaring traders who made their imprint on Southeast Asia.
Their opulently furnished mansions and shophouses are just one example of how their cultural impact is still evident across Singapore. Some of these have been destroyed, but there are exquisitely maintained specimens scattered throughout the Lion City, each tiled. These intricately designed tiles are a hallmark of Peranakan culture, featuring floral or geometric patterns in vibrant colors.
It’s worth finding an antique dealer that sells historic Peranakan tiles, many of which are handpainted, for a unique memento. They make lovely keepsakes or decorations for the house. Additionally, a few craftspeople continue to create contemporary copies in the old-fashioned manner.
14. Textiles
Singapore offers a wide variety of premium fabrics and clothing, ranging from exquisite silks to stunning batik designs. Keep in mind that quality varies greatly and frequently reflects cost; cheaper silks will eventually fade, and mass-produced batik fabrics will never be able to equal the visual appeal of handcrafted ones.
Spend some time looking for trustworthy sellers and, if you can, be prepared to pay a little more in Singaporean dollars for a souvenir that will continue to sparkle for many years to come.
15. Custom T-Shirts and Mugs Printing
If you’re looking for a personalized and meaningful souvenir or gift, custom-printed t-shirts and mugs are a fantastic choice. Singapore offers several services where you can design unique items featuring anything from iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion to personalized messages or photos.
Custom t-shirts and mugs are perfect for travelers who want to take home something truly one-of-a-kind or businesses looking for corporate gifts with a local touch. They’re also great for family and group souvenirs to commemorate your trip to Singapore.
JoSa Imaging, a trusted local printing service, specializes in high-quality custom printing for t-shirts, mugs, and other items. With a range of designs and affordable pricing, you can create the perfect keepsake or gift to celebrate your Singapore adventure.
Conclusion
Singapore is a treasure trove of unique and meaningful souvenirs that cater to every traveler’s taste and budget. From cultural icons like Merlion souvenirs and Peranakan tiles to delicious treats like kaya jam and laksa spice paste, the Lion City offers a rich variety of items that capture its vibrant spirit.
So, pack your shopping bags and make your way through this incredible city. With its dazzling markets, luxurious malls, and unique finds, your Singapore shopping spree will undoubtedly be one for the books!
