Planning to visit Singapore? That’s a great choice! Not just because it has world class infrastructure and an ultra-efficient transport network but also because Singapore is a shopping paradise! This island nation is not just known for its skylines and clean gardens but also for how it heals you with retail therapy. But what exactly should you shop for when you’re in the city of diamonds? Don’t worry, we’ve curated the perfect list for you, of the best things to buy in Singapore.
And just to let you know, Singapore’s futuristic architecture and lip-smacking cuisine is a delight to explore, but it also comes with a great shopping experience and the same innovation reflects across local and luxury markets. This city of diamonds, with cultures across the globe melting perfectly is a great destination for shoppers from all across the world. So when you are here, we suggest you do reserve a day or two just to experience the glitz and the thrill of it all.
15 Things You Must Shop For When In Singapore
Singapore’s tourism industry has seen significant growth. According to government sources, in 2024, international visitor arrivals increased by 21% to 16.5 million, with tourism receipts reaching an estimated S$27.5 to S$29 billion, surpassing the pre-pandemic high of S$27.7 billion in 2019.
It’s no surprise that Singapore continues to attract millions of tourists each year—not just for its iconic attractions, but also because high-quality products are cheaper in Singapore compared to many other global shopping destinations. Whether you’re a seasoned shopaholic or simply enjoy discovering unique treasures, this guide highlights 15 must-buy items for your trip—complete with price ranges and tips on where to buy gifts in Singapore.
1. Merlion Souvenirs- Must Buy From Singapore
Souvenirs with miniature merlion are definitely one of the unique things to buy in Singapore and top our list as well. As the national symbol of Singapore, the Merlion has the head of a lion and the body of a fish—representing the city’s origins as a humble fishing village and its name Singapura, which means “Lion City.” Legend has it that when Sang Nila Utama first landed on Singapore, he saw a lion, and hence the name (singa=lion).
So, if you’re looking for quirky Singapore souvenirs, shop for Merlion-themed keychains, ashtrays, chocolates, fridge magnets and can openers.
- Where to buy: Almost every tourist area, including Marina Bay Sands, Orchard Road, and Sentosa Island.
- Price range: S$2–S$30
You can get Merlion keychains, fridge magnets, snow globes, and mini statues. High end showrooms also have gold Merlions on sale.
FUN FACT: There are no wild lions in Singapore, and so it is likely that Sang Nila Utama saw some other animal and mistook him for lion. Nevertheless, the Merlion remains a symbol of Singapore’s legacy.
2. Jewelry And Watches
Singapore is very famous for shopping items like jewelry and watches because there is no VAT (Value-Added Tax) system in the country unlike many other countries. Even the GST (Goods and Services Tax) is very low (currently 9%). Infact, tourists can get a GST refund on qualifying purchases over SGD 100 from participating stores. You’ll find luxurious brands like Swarovski, Mizuki, Love, Bonito, Goldheart, Tiffany and co. etc. at much cheaper prices than say, Europe, for instance. Similarly, you can also buy watches from high-end brands like Seiko, Citizen, Casio, Orient, and Fossil at much better prices. Talk about saving up on luxury items!
For something truly unique and luxurious, consider gifting your loved ones Gold-Plated Orchids from RISIS—real orchids preserved and plated in 24K gold. These are transformed into elegant jewelry or premium corporate gifts such as pen holders and card stands. They definitely stand out as a gift from Singapore, truly.
- Where to buy: Check out Mustafa Shopping Centre for budget and mid-range watches for fashion jewelry, and Bugis Street night market. Orchard Road, Marina Bay Sands and Jewel Changi Airport offer luxury range of gold-plated orchids, luxury brands and flagship stores.
- Price range:
- Fashion Jewelry: S$20–S$150
- Mid-range Watches (Casio, Citizen, Fossil): S$80–S$400
- Fine Jewelry (Goldheart, Tiffany & Co.): S$500–S$5,000+
- Luxury Watches (limited editions, automatic models): S$1,000–S$15,000+
3. Home Decor From Singapore
Are you a fan of stores like Ikea, Naiise or Commune? Don’t worry, you’ll find their Singaporean versions with furniture that’s not just easy to clean but also germ-free. My favorite purchase was a handcrafted incense holder shaped like the Supertree Grove—practical and poetic. Plus, reminiscent of my wonderful time in Singapore.
You can also find rattan baskets, bamboo trays, and Merlion-shaped salt shakers. Other popular choices include vases, jars and table lamps.
- Where to buy:
- Temple Home Decor (cushions and luxury candles)
- Woody Antique House (vintage/antique furniture)
- House of AnLi (European home decor)
- Price range: Prices start at S$10 and can go up to S$200 for furniture.
4. Fragrances
If you love fragrances made with natural ingredients like orchids, you’re in for something special—after all, the orchid is deeply rooted in Singapore’s identity as its national flower. These scents evoke tropical evenings and warm spices, making every purchase an experience.
Additionally, import duties and tariffs being low in Singapore make high-end luxury brands affordable for shoppers. We can bet that you will be tempted to buy from high-end brands such Chanel, Dior, and MAC given their appealing prices.
- Where to buy: For a truly personalized souvenir, visit Sifr Aromatics in Kampong Glam for local orchid perfumes and fragrances. For high-end experience, visit the Orchid Road or Marina Bay Sands.
- Price range: You can spend anywhere from S$50 to S$200, depending on the complexity of the blend.
5. Coffee and Tea
Wondering what to bring back home from Singapore, for your parents? Perhaps, something to give a kickstart to their mornings! They will thank you after sipping the aromatic teas and Kopi blends.
Made from Robusta coffee beans roasted with sugar and margarine, the local kopi is strongly ingrained in Singaporean food culture. Similarly if you fancy smoky/earthy flavors of a tea, you must try Singapore’s strong bodies black tea leaves.
- Where to buy: For coffee, hop to local Kopi outlets like Ya Kun Kaya Toast, Toast Box, Killiney Kopitiam, Fun Toast or Heavenly Wang / Wang Cafe. For tea, go to Indian or Malay food stalls.
- Price range: TWG Tea is a luxurious tea brand offering curated blends like Singapore Breakfast and Silver Moon (priced between S$20 and S$50). For a more nostalgic, local experience, Ya Kun Kaya Toast sells instant kopi sachets and kaya spread gift sets starting at S$10.
6. Local Handicrafts
The quintessential Singapore shopping guide is incomplete without local handicrafts like batik prints, Cheongsam (a traditional silk dress) and ketupat (coconut leaf pouches used for cooking rice). For a more creative and personalized souvenir for your loved ones, consider purchasing local art pieces. Singapore boasts a vibrant art scene, with both modern and traditional works to choose from. Whether you want a painting, print, or sculpture, there’s something to match all tastes. I bought a hand-poured soy candle, and the vendor explained its symbol represented peace and prosperity—adding a layer of meaning that no mass-produced souvenir could match.
Chinatown is buzzing with these amazing things to take back home,
- Where to buy: Chinatown and Little India are bursting with artisans. Galleries around the Civic District, or independent artists at the Singapore Art Museum gift shop.
- Price range: These items are usually priced between S$5 and S$50 and are perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking meaningful souvenirs. Local art where can cost you anything around S$500.
7. Local Spices
If you want to bring some authentic Singaporean flavors back home, don’t forget to stock up on vibrant spices and sauces—like sweet and spicy chili crab sauce, fragrant curry pastes, and laksa mixes. Perfect for home cooks and food lovers, these culinary staples are among the best things to buy in Singapore for men/women looking to recreate local dishes abroad.
FUN FACT: The iconic chili crab is often considered one of Singapore’s national dishes. It was invented in the 1950s by a pair of innovative cooks who combined crab with a spicy tomato-based sauce, creating a rich, flavorful dish that has since become a must-try for visitors.
- Where to buy: You’ll find these at Little India and Chinatown. For packaged sauces and spice blends, visit the food sections of Mustafa Shopping Centre or Sheng Siong supermarkets.
- Price range: S$5–S$25
8. Singapore Sling Mix
It would be a sin to go home without a Singapore sling bottle! And maybe a few more. This famous gin-based cocktail is a 1915 creation by bartender Ngiam Tong Boon in the Long Bar. Its iconic status comes from being a refreshing mix of cherry liqueur, Cointreau, Benedictine, pineapple juice, lime juice, grenadine, and Angostura bitters. This gin-based cocktail is a delicious souvenir for alcohol enthusiasts and a delight to savor. Like, did you even visit Singapore if you did not taste this and did not get it back home?
- Where to buy: It’s the signature drink of Raffles hotel. So, you can pick up the mix from the Raffles Hotel shop, duty-free shops or various stores around Orchard Road.
- Price range: S$20–S$50
9. Tech Gadgets and Accessories
Electronic shopping in Singapore is an experience you won’t want to miss. Low import charges and taxes make Singapore a very competitive market for electronics. Whether you’re on the hunt for the latest gadgets, laptops, cameras, smart home devices, or computer peripherals, Singapore offers an impressive selection of top-quality electronics at great prices. From the latest smartphones to gaming consoles, the city is a paradise for tech enthusiasts. Plus the thrill of exploring flagship stores of electronics super-giants is an unmissable experience in itself. And if you are wondering if I-phones are cheaper in Singapore- then yes, they are and by a good margin.
- Where to buy: You can purchase quality electronics from Sim Lim Square, Challenger or Funan Mall. Tourists also go to Harvey Norman and Best Denki.
- Price range:
- Headphones & Earbuds: S$20–S$500
- Smartphones & Tablets: S$200–S$2,000+
- Smartwatches: S$100–S$1,000+
- Cameras (Digital & Mirrorless): S$300–S$2,000+
- Gaming Consoles & Accessories: S$150–S$600
- Laptops & PC Accessories: S$500–S$3,000+
- Portable Chargers & Power Banks: S$10–S$150
10. Bak Kwa & Kaya Spread
These are not only the cheapest things to buy in Singapore but also the most beloved souvenirs from the city of diamonds. Bak Kwa is a savory-sweet snack made of barbecued sliced pork or beef, marinated in a blend of sugar and spices, then grilled over charcoal for that irresistible smoky flavor. Introduced by early Chinese immigrants, Bak Kwa has become a festive favorite, especially during Chinese New Year, when demand (and prices) peak.
Kaya Spread, on the other hand, is a creamy, fragrant jam made from coconut milk, eggs, sugar, and pandan leaves. It’s famously served with toast and soft-boiled eggs as part of the traditional Singaporean breakfast. Whether used as a spread or a topping for desserts, its distinctive flavor makes it a popular culinary souvenir among tourists.
- Where to buy:
- Bak Kwa: Fragrance Foodstuff stores, Bee Cheng Hiang, Kim Joo Guan.
- Kaya Spread: Ya Kun Kaya Toast outlets (islandwide), supermarkets, Changi Airport souvenir shops.
- Price range:
- Bak Kwa: From S$45 per kg
- Kaya Spread: S$5–10 per jar
11. Tiger Balm – Truly Singaporean
Another unique thing to get from Singapore is the tiger balm, a pain-relieving ointment. This business actually began in the 1870s in Rangoon, Burma, thanks to Aw Chu Kin, a Chinese herbalist. In the 1920s, Aw Chu Kin’s sons moved their business to Singapore, establishing a major production center there.
Today, Tiger Balm is not just a practical remedy, but a piece of Singapore’s heritage, offering relief for sore muscles, headaches, and even stress. Its distinct, aromatic scent and versatile use make it a memorable souvenir for both health-conscious travelers and those looking to bring home a piece of local history.
- Where to buy: It’s available in departmental stores nationwide.
- Price range: The price range varies from S$2 to S$10, depending on the size.
12. Pressed Pennies
Still wondering what to shop for in Singapore? Well, pressed pennies make for a fun and meaningful keepsake, especially for kids. These are elongated coins embossed with iconic Singaporean symbols, landmarks, or themed designs that capture the essence of your visit.
What makes them even more special is the experience itself: automatic penny-flattening machines are located at many major attractions, allowing you to create your own custom souvenir on the spot. It’s a creative and interactive way to take home a piece of your journey.
- Where to buy: Universal Studios Singapore, National Museum of Singapore, Suntec City Mall and Resorts World Sentosa.
- Price range: S$2 per penny
13. Handmade Leather Goods
If you’re searching for unique things to buy in Singapore, consider investing in handcrafted leather goods created by skilled local artisans. From wallets and belts to bags and key holders, Singaporean leather products are known for their exceptional quality and timeless design. Many pieces are made using traditional leather working techniques, offering a perfect blend of functionality, durability, and fine craftsmanship.
- Where to buy: Look for artisanal leather goods at stores in Chinatown or Raffles City.
- Price range: S$50–S$500
14. Charles And Keith Products And Other Local Brands
Clothes, Bags and Shoes- some of us cannot splurge enough ever on these. And if you are fond of classy, elegant bags and shows, Singapore can be an exceptionally awesome shopping destination. For the special women in your life, buying Charles and Keith products from Singapore is something you shouldn’t miss. Plus, they will be far more affordable here considering it is a local brand. It is one of the things to buy in Singapore that I never miss out on, and hope you too do not.
Similarly, fashionable and trendy apparel in soothing fabrics and elegant designs is something Love, Bonito is famous for. Makes excellent gifts for the women in your circle.
- Where to buy: Charles and Keith Stores in Bugis, Orchard Street and Duty-Free Airport Stores.
- Price range: S$20–S$500 and upwards.
15. Peranakan Ceramics
Peranakan culture—also known as Baba Nyonya—is a unique fusion of Chinese and Malay heritage. Descendants of Chinese traders who settled in Southeast Asia in the 15th century, the Peranakans developed a rich, hybrid culture reflected in their food, fashion, and art.
One of the most beautiful expressions of this culture is seen in ornamental ceramic tiles, intricate porcelain, and colorful textiles, which make meaningful and artistic souvenirs. These items not only showcase exquisite craftsmanship but also tell the story of Singapore’s multicultural roots.
- Where to buy: Visit the Peranakan Museum gift shop, or head to the colorful shops in Joo Chiat.
- Price range: S$30–S$200
Finally, whether you’re picking up designer jewelry, local tea blends, or quirky Merlion keychains, you’ll find that the best things to buy in Singapore are those that carry both cultural significance and a personal connection to your journey.
So, as your Singapore trip comes to a close, don’t leave empty-handed. These carefully chosen souvenirs and gifts are more than exclusive things—they’re lasting reminders of your adventures, the people you met, and the unique charm that makes Singapore unforgettable.
