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Top 8 Souvenir Shops in Singapore for Gifts You Won’t Want to Give Away
Souvenir shopping in Singapore doesn’t have to mean overpriced trinkets or generic fridge magnets. If you’re looking for something uniquely local or just need a few last-minute gifts, there are plenty of budget-friendly spots to explore.
I used to think finding good souvenirs meant splurging at fancy gift shops, but a quick stroll through places like Chinatown, Bugis Street, and Mustafa Center proved otherwise.
These spots are packed with wallet-friendly finds—from Peranakan-inspired homeware to quirky knick-knacks designed by local artists. Prices are already reasonable, but if you’re up for a little bargaining, you can walk away with even better deals.
If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry—we’ve rounded up some of the best places in town to pick up souvenirs that actually feel worth bringing home.
1. Lucky Plaza
Media credit: @nicolehyala
Website: https://www.luckyplazasingapore.com/
Address: 304 Orchard Road
Phone: +65 6235 3294
Hours: Daily – 10AM to 9PM
Lucky Plaza has been around since the late 1970s. While its surroundings have changed with glitzy malls and luxury brands, it has held onto its reputation as one of the best spots for affordable shopping on Orchard Road.
Inside, it’s a maze of small shops selling everything from perfumes and cosmetics to chocolates and sunglasses. It’s one of the few places in the city where bargaining is still part of the game—just don’t be afraid to negotiate for a better deal.
Lucky Plaza also has another identity. Over the years, it has become a cultural hub for the Filipino community in Singapore, with Filipino-run shops, remittance centers, and eateries serving home-style dishes.
While it may not have the polish of Orchard Road’s newer malls, Lucky Plaza delivers something different—affordable finds, a sense of nostalgia, and a unique slice of everyday life in Singapore.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting on a Sunday, expect big crowds as the plaza becomes a gathering spot for the Filipino community. It’s a lively atmosphere, but if you prefer a quieter shopping trip, plan your visit on a weekday instead. |
2. Peninsula Plaza
Media credit: @intoeystellar
Website: https://www.peninsulaplaza.com.sg/
Address: 111 North Bridge Road
Phone: +65 6962 8895
Hours: Daily – 10AM to 10PM
Peninsula Plaza might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of shopping in Singapore, but for the Burmese community, it’s a second home.
Dubbed “Little Burma,” this decades-old shopping center near City Hall is where you’ll spot traditional longyi, Burmese groceries, and even travel agencies selling tickets to Myanmar.
It’s also a great spot to pick up quirky souvenirs that you won’t easily find elsewhere. Shops here stock Burmese handicrafts, decorative trinkets, and small gifts like postcards, keychains, and fridge magnets at cheaper prices.
Aside from the shopping, the basement food court is worth a visit for authentic Burmese cuisine. You can get a taste of home-cooked Burmese dishes without leaving Singapore.
Pro Tip: Just like Lucky Plaza, Sundays at Peninsula Plaza can get extremely crowded as the Burmese community gathers on their day off. For a more peaceful shopping trip, visit on a weekday. |
3. Mustafa Center
Media credit: @a.lo.ha.k.f
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mustafacentre/?hl=en
Website: https://www.mustafa.com.sg/
Address: 145 Syed Alwi Road
Phone: +65 6295 5855
Hours: Daily – 24 hours
You can find almost anything at Mustafa Center, no matter the time of day. Sitting in the center of Little India, this 24/7 shopping hub is a fan favorite for its sheer variety of goods at wallet-friendly prices.
It’s easy to lose track of time wandering through its packed aisles of perfumes, electronics, gold jewelry, or even kitchenware.
Shelves are filled with Merlion figurines, collectible coins, fridge magnets, and keychains—perfect for gifts that won’t take up much space in your luggage.
For something more practical, popular picks include Eagle Brand medicated oil, Tiger Balm, and a wide selection of teas and chocolates.
What makes shopping here even better is that prices are fixed, so there’s no need to haggle. If you swing by in the middle of the night for a quiet shopping trip or pop in during the day for a quick browse, you’ll walk out with more than you planned for.
Pro Tip: With endless options packed into one place, it’s easy to lose track of time. Make a shopping list before heading to Mustafa Center to stay focused and avoid impulse buys! |
4. Bugis Street
Media credit: @yqsnps
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bugisst/?hl=en
Website: https://www.bugisstreet.com.sg/?
Address: 261 Victoria Street
Phone: (02) 8245 2806
Hours: Daily – 10AM to 10PM
Bugis Street is where shopping gets exciting—endless stalls, unbeatable deals, and an energy that keeps you moving. This is the place to hunt for bargains if you’re after trendy fashion, accessories, or souvenirs.
With over 800 shops packed into a maze of narrow lanes, you’ll find everything from graphic T-shirts and silver jewelry to stylish handbags, hats, and even collectible stamps.
You’ll also want to check out the mobile accessories, with countless stalls selling quirky phone cases, chargers, and even custom screen protectors.
If you’re short on time, this is one of the best spots to grab last-minute souvenirs without stretching your budget. Some vendors will even allow a bit of bargaining, so don’t be shy about asking for a better deal.
As the sun sets, the market evolves, with new stalls setting up and a different mix of shoppers passing through. Take your time to browse—there always seems to be something new to discover.
Pro Tip: If you feel like getting some rest from shopping, make sure to grab a quick pick-me-up. Bugis Street has plenty of bubble tea, fried snacks, and fresh fruit juices to keep you going. |
5. Design Orchard
Media credit: @shopdesignorchard
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopdesignorchard/?hl=en
Website: https://dors.com.sg/
Address: 250 Orchard Road
Phone: +65 9379 4725
Hours: Daily – 10:30AM to 9:30PM
Design Orchard isn’t your typical shopping mall—this space is a tribute to Singapore’s creative spirit, filled with pieces crafted by homegrown designers.
Located right along Orchard Road, it’s the place to go for fashion, accessories, and home decor that reflect the city’s distinct style.
The ground floor is packed with carefully curated brands, featuring everything from modern apparel to handcrafted jewelry, artisanal perfumes, and even small-batch gin.
It’s an ever-changing lineup, as new designers rotate every few months, making each visit different from the last. There’s a good mix of price points too, so you’ll find gifts ranging from affordable trinkets to high-end statement pieces.
But the shopping doesn’t end there. The rooftop area doubles as a cozy urban escape, complete with a café and an open-air amphitheater overlooking the city for a refreshing change of pace.
Pro Tip: If you want to learn more about the designer pieces, you can check out the designer biographies displayed at each stall. |
6. Chinatown Street Market
Media credit: @jay_jk_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chinatownsingapore/?hl=en
Website: https://chinatown.sg/
Address: 2 Banda Street
Phone: +65 6534 8942
Hours: Daily – 9AM to 10PM
Chinatown Street Market is where you’ll go for one thing and leave with a handful of unexpected finds. Stretching across Pagoda Street, this open-air market is packed with stalls selling things like traditional Chinese handicrafts.
You’ll find plenty of options for stuff like silk robes, decorative lanterns, or lucky cat figurines. There are also stalls filled with calligraphy fans and antique-style trinkets, making it easy to pick up gifts with a cultural touch.
It’s a great spot for bulk buys too—many vendors offer deals when you purchase multiple items. Just be sure to compare prices between stalls before making a purchase.
Chinatown Street Market also provides a glimpse into Singapore’s Chinese heritage. During festivals like the Lunar New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival, the area becomes even livelier with red lanterns strung overhead and festive stalls lining the streets.
Pro Tip: With so many affordable finds, it’s easy to end up with more than you expected. Bring a tote bag or small backpack to carry your purchases comfortably. |
7. Cat Socrates
Media credit: @cat_socrates
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cat_socrates/?hl=en
Website: https://cat-socrates.myshopify.com/?
Address: 448 Joo Chiat Road
Phone: +65 6348 0863
Hours:
- Monday – 10AM to 6PM
- Tuesday to Friday – 10AM to 7PM
- Saturday – 10AM to 8PM
Cat Socrates will make you want to slow down and explore every corner. You’ll find items with personality, such as their Peranakan-patterned notebooks, indie books about Singapore’s past, or ceramic dishes with playful prints.
Both locations, in Joo Chiat and Tiong Bahru, carry an eclectic mix of home décor, stationery, and accessories, but the Joo Chiat branch is extra special, thanks to a resident cat who often lounges around, greeting visitors with lazy indifference.
Along with the feline touches, the store is packed with pieces that reflect Singapore’s creative side. Think eccentric homeware, tote bags with clever local references, and a carefully curated selection of books on heritage, design, and mental health.
Pet owners will also find a small but well-thought-out selection of pet supplies!
However, prices here lean higher than your average souvenir stall, but that’s because you’re paying for unique finds, many of which support local artists.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on their social media pages for exclusive deals and upcoming events. |
8. Raffles Boutique
Media credit: @rafflesboutique
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rafflesboutique/?hl=en
Website: https://www.rafflesarcade.com.sg/raffles-boutique
Address: 328 N Bridge Road, #01-26 to 30 Raffles Arcade
Phone: +65 6412 1143
Hours: Daily – 10AM to 8PM
Raffles Boutique is where heritage meets luxury, offering a carefully curated selection of gifts that reflect the elegance of its historic home.
Located within the iconic Raffles Hotel, the boutique is known for its refined selection of Singapore Sling gift sets, beautifully packaged kaya jam, and handcrafted Raffles-branded souvenirs.
The boutique also carries exclusive home décor pieces, embroidered accessories, and gourmet delicacies, all inspired by the hotel’s long-standing legacy.
Shoppers can even browse through the heritage gallery, which showcases artifacts and memorabilia tied to Raffles Hotel’s storied past.
While the prices here lean toward the expensive side, those looking for a refined memento will find out that this is one of the best places to find something truly special.
Pro Tip: Chat with the staff to find out which souvenirs are tourist favorites—they might point you to hidden gems you wouldn’t have noticed! |