Bugis Street, Singapore Overview

Of the many malls and markets that rightly make Singapore a shopper’s paradise, Bugis Street is one of them. This popular shopping destination comprises of over 800 different shops and stalls in all sizes, which offer the latest trends in the fashion industry, and that too at affordable prices! Not only shopping, but the street is also popular for a myriad of other activities too, and enjoying the lip-smacking delicacies here is one of them.

The original Bugis Street that existed was well known for its nighttime activities, but after complaints by the residents, the entire street was demolished. What stands today is the product of a massive makeover, which brought together a perfect amalgamation of malls, cafes, restaurants, street food, shops, and stalls. Popular among both locals and foreign tourists alike, the Bugis Street Market continues to be one of the cheapest yet trendiest markets to buy clothes, accessories, souvenirs, houseware and cosmetics.

Bugis Street Shopping

Over 800 shops and stalls in different sizes come together to make the Bugis Street one of the best places for shopping in Singapore. After its renovation, the street is now all covered, which means that shoppers can have a good time without worrying about the scorching heat or the downpour; and choose from a range of clothes, accessories, footwear, electronic items, household goods, souvenirs, and other knick-knacks.

There is an entire range of clothes of the latest trend that the street has to offer, though one will have to make some effort to look for clothes that suit the taste. Shirts and t-shirts here start at just SGD 10, and one can easily get a good pair of jeans for around SGD 15. Matching accessories are also easily available, and sunglasses and hats start from as low as SGD 5. Bugis Street is also the perfect place to source some souvenirs and knick-knacks from. Most of the trinkets here, such as key rings, postcards, and stationery items are available for as cheap as SGD 1.

Other than the street shopping experience, those looking for a more premium feel can also visit the two urban malls that are located here.

Bugis +: Built over 10 floors, this new mall boasts of having the most leading collection of fashion, accessories as well as food items. Thanks to its easy accessibility, it is now gaining a lot of popularity among the local residents.
Bugis Junction: Located just above the Bugis MRT Station, this is the first one to offer visitors with a sky-lit shopping experience. It is home to numerous global chains of stores and pushcart stalls and has an amazing collection of souvenirs and trinkets to choose from.

Bugis Street Singapore — Bugis Street Market is one of the most popular places for shopping in Singapore (Source)

Food at Bugis Street Market

The real shopping experience at Bugis Street is incomplete with indulging in a bite or two of the delectable items that are served here. In fact, there are plenty of eating options here to satisfy the hunger pangs of the shoppers, and thus visitors are usually spoilt for choice.

The street offers a variety of different cuisines, including Thai, Chinese, Indonesian, Vietnamese, and other Asian options; and it would thus not be wrong to say that the place is as famous for its food as it is for its shopping experience.
Make sure to enjoy the excellent fresh juice which is served at the juice bar in the central area. One can choose from banana, coconut, pineapple or melon, and enjoy a refreshing glass for just SGD 2.
Thai Ice Milk tea and Thai Ice Lemon Grass are also must-have beverages after a tiring day of shopping here.
There are also numerous other stalls in Bugis market area that sell fried snacks, satays, and noodles, so make sure to give them a try.
Crepes, pancakes, noodle soups, chicken, Kaya Balls, Hakka yam cake: one will find all of it at Bugis Street.
If looking forward to having a proper meal, visit the Albert Centre Market and food centre, which is located towards the backside. This area has a separate hawker centre, which serves some amazing full meals.

Attractions around Bugis

While shopping might be what Bugis is known for, there are several other things to do and see in or around this cultural place.

Kuan Yin Thong Hood Cho Temple: Located near the Albert Centre, this temple is devoted to the Chinese deity Kuan Yin or the goddess of mercy. Built in 1884, the temple is said to grant the wishes of the devotees and is exceptionally crowded at all times. The place is also supposed to advise some people at times through a procedure including bamboo sticks. It is a classic example of oriental temple architecture.
Haji Lane: The hipster lane is a fashion haven and houses chic stores selling unique products and articles. The place is also famous for people fancying a stroll or for the clubs that the street is littered with.
Hajjah Fatimah Mosque: This mosque is the second most important mosque, just after the Sultan Mosque which is also located in this area, and was built in 1846 by a Malaccan Merchant lady. It stands out among the modern buildings it is surrounded by and provides a calm and tranquil atmosphere.