What to Buy in Singapore: Top 17+ Souvenirs to Bring Home

Get ready to shop 'til you drop! Singapore is a shopper's paradise, offering everything from bustling markets with bargain finds to high-end malls brimming with luxury brands. However, with so many options, deciding what to buy in Singapore can be overwhelming. Don't worry, shopaholics, we've got you covered.

In this article from TravelThru, we'll give you the best souvenirs, local treasures, and must-have items that will make your Singapore shopping spree truly unforgettable. Get your wallets ready because you're about to discover a whole new world of retail therapy!

Before we get into all the specifics, let's take a quick peek at the top Singapore souvenirs on your next trip:

• Merlion souvenirs
• Laksa paste
• Electronics
• Pineapple tarts
• Tiger balm
• Orchid perfumes
• Bak-Kwa
• Ya Kun Kaya
• Singapore sling cocktail mix
• TWG tea
• Peranakan porcelain
• Local snacks
• Gold-plated orchid jewelry
• Pressed pennies
• Batik products
• Artisanal chocolates
• Chilli crab recipe plate
• Traditional beadwork

1. Merlion Souvenirs

So you're in Singapore, having a blast, and you keep seeing this awesome creature everywhere: the Merlion! Lion head, fish body—totally unique to Singapore. And guess what? You need a Merlion souvenir.

It's like a badge of honor saying, "I've been to Singapore, and it was awesome!" Plus, there are tons of cool options, from keychains and magnets to t-shirts and even snow globes.

• Price: Starts from SGD 2.
• Where to buy: Available in souvenir shops across the island, including Changi Airport.

2. Laksa Paste

Ask anyone in Singapore about their go-to comfort food, and Laksa will likely top the list. Singaporeans are obsessed with food. And honestly, this bowl of amazing noodles swimming in a rich, spicy coconut soup is something the city just can't live without.

Like Singapore itself, Laksa is a cool mix of cultures. It actually started in Malaysia, but you'll find different, delicious versions loved all over Singapore and even in parts of Indonesia.

So, what makes it taste so incredible? It's about the spice paste – a flavour-packed blend of things like dried shrimp, creamy candlenuts, zingy galangal, fragrant lemongrass, and of course, chilies for that lovely kick.

Nothing beats grabbing a bowl fresh from a buzzing hawker centre. But if you want to take a bit of that awesome flavour home, you can easily find jars of laksa paste to buy. It makes a fantastic Singapore souvenir.

• Price: They usually cost around SGD 7 to SGD 15, depending on the brand and size.
• Where to buy: major supermarkets like FairPrice or Cold Storage.

3. Electronics

As a leading tech hub, Singapore offers competitive prices on a huge range of electronics, from the latest phones to quirky accessories. You'll easily find major brands, often cheaper than in many Western countries, particularly during sales periods. Consider shopping in Singapore if you're looking to upgrade your phone or find interesting new tech gear.

• Where to buy: Sim Lim Square, Funan Mall, major retail chains like Challenger, Courts, Best Denki, and Harvey Norman.

4. Pineapple Tarts

These buttery, crumbly pastries filled with sweet-tangy pineapple jam have become an iconic Singaporean treat that both locals and tourists can't get enough of. 

While you'll see them everywhere during Chinese New Year celebrations (they're symbols of prosperity), they're too good to only eat once a year. They make an absolutely fantastic edible souvenir to share a taste of Singapore with folks back home.

• Price: For a nice box from well-known bakeries, you might spend anywhere from around SGD 20 to SGD 50+. But you can also find simpler, more budget-friendly options in supermarkets, sometimes starting from just SGD 6-10.

   

• Where to buy: Famous bakeries such as Bengawan Solo, Kele, or SunnyHills

5. Tiger Balm Products

When thinking about what to buy in Singapore, Tiger Balm should be at the top of your list. This iconic ointment, with its distinctive red tin and tiger logo, is synonymous with Singapore and a must-have souvenir. More than just a memento, Tiger Balm is a versatile remedy trusted for generations to relieve aches, pains, and common ailments.

• Price: SGD 2 - SGD 10.
• Where to buy: Drugstores and department stores nationwide.

6. Orchid Perfumes

Singapore is crazy about orchids! They're the national flower known for their beauty and delicate fragrance. So naturally, you'll find amazing orchid-inspired perfumes here. 

These perfumes come in a variety of elegant scents for both men and women, with appealing names like Aranda and Orchids by the Bay. Their lovely fragrance will help you remember your trip to Singapore long after you've returned home.

• Price: SGD 28 - SGD 168, depending on size.
• Where to buy: Major department stores and the Marina Bay Cruise Center.

7. Bak-Kwa (BBQ Meat)

When planning your list of things to buy in Singapore, don't forget Bak Kwa. It's basically a type of amazing barbecued jerky (pork or beef are common) that hits the perfect sweet and smoky notes. It has roots with Chinese immigrants and is really popular to share with loved ones during festivals like Chinese New Year. Just a heads-up, it does get a bit pricier around that holiday season.

• Price: Starts at SGD 45 per kg.
• Where to buy: Specialty stores like Bee Cheng Hiang and Kim Joo Guan.

8. Ya-Kun Kaya Spread (Coconut Jam)

Okay, sweet tooths, Kaya is the one for you! It's a super popular breakfast staple here. They make it by gently simmering coconut milk, eggs, and sugar with fragrant pandan leaves until it's thick, creamy, and delicious. Trust us, it's sweet, rich, and dangerously good!

Kaya is traditionally spread on toast, often with a slab of butter for extra indulgence. You can swirl it into yogurt, use it as a pancake topping, or even add it to your coffee for a sweet, coconutty kick.

• Price: SGD 5 - SGD 10 per jar.
• Where to buy: Ya Kun Kaya Toast outlets and supermarkets.

9. Singapore Sling Cocktail Mix

Born in the legendary Raffles Hotel, this iconic gin-based cocktail has evolved to become a must-try experience for both locals and tourists. The good news for cocktail lovers is that you no longer need to visit Singapore to enjoy this classic drink. Today, you can bring a taste of Singapore's most famous libation home through convenient ready-to-drink formats and cocktail mixes.

• Price: Starts at SGD 30 for mixes; ready-to-drink packs vary in price.

• Where to buy: Raffles Hotel, various souvenir shops, and supermarkets.

   

>>> Recommended reading: Getting Around Singapore: Your Guide to Stress-Free Travel

10. TWG Tea

If you enjoy a good cup of tea, Singapore has something special for you: TWG Tea! When considering the best things to buy in Singapore, this luxury local brand is a top pick. They offer an incredible range of high-quality teas and unique tea-infused items. It’s a wonderful choice if you're looking for a classy souvenir for yourself or another tea enthusiast.

• Where to buy: TWG tea salons & boutiques, department stores, Changi airport.

11. Peranakan Porcelain and Crafts

While exploring Singapore's shopping areas, be sure to discover the beautiful world of Peranakan crafts and porcelain. These pretty items represent the unique Peranakan culture – a special blend of Chinese, Malay, and European traditions. Taking one home is like capturing a piece of Singapore's diverse history and makes for a truly lovely souvenir.

You'll recognize Peranakan porcelain by its stunningly bright colours and detailed designs, often featuring flowers like peonies or mythical birds like phoenixes in distinctive pastel shades. Keep an eye out for gorgeous tea sets, plates, and vases. 

Beyond porcelain, explore the beauty of kebaya, the traditional Peranakan blouse with delicate embroidery and beadwork.

• Where to buy: Chinatown and specialty craft shops.

12. Local Snacks and Treats

When thinking about what to buy in Singapore, definitely check out the incredible range of local treats. These make delicious edible souvenirs, letting you enjoy the city's diverse tastes even when you're back home.

On the savoury side, look for the popular salted egg fish skin or crunchy chips that taste just like Hainanese chicken rice. If you're up for something sweet and uniquely Singaporean, try some durian-flavoured treats! Candies, chocolates, even coffee – it's a fun way to experience the famous ‘king of fruits.’

• Where to buy: Supermarkets and specialty food shops.

13. Gold Plated Orchid Jewelry

Want Singapore souvenirs that really stand out from the usual? Consider the unique beauty of 24K gold-plated orchids. They take real, beautiful orchids and carefully coat them in gold. You'll find them crafted into stunning jewellery or elegant gifts like card holders or pen holders. Yes, they're a bit more expensive, but totally worth it for an unforgettable present from the Lion City.

• Price: Starting from SGD 60.
• Where to buy: RISIS stores at major malls like Marina Bay Sands.

14. Pressed Pennies and Unique Coins

For unique and budget-friendly souvenirs from Singapore, think about pressed pennies! These are simply flattened coins stamped with special local designs. What's cool is that you can often create them yourself using machines located at popular tourist attractions throughout the city. They're a fantastic way to remember your trip and make small gifts for friends and family back home.

• Price: SGD 2 per penny.
• Where to buy: Locations like Universal Studios Singapore and Gardens By The Bay gift shops.

15. Batik Products

While exploring what to buy in Singapore, consider the vibrant and culturally rich world of batik. This traditional fabric dyeing technique creates stunning textiles with intricate patterns and bold colors.

There's a great variety of Batik items available. You might find lovely handmade textiles like sarongs or dresses. Or, decorate your space with Batik table runners, cushion covers, or wall art. A colourful Batik scarf always looks great, and carrying a Batik bag is like taking a bit of Singaporean culture with you.

• Price: From SGD 63 for stylish scarves.
• Where to buy: Kampong Glam area or modern batik brands like Ozel.

16. Artisanal Chocolates

Forget your usual mass-produced chocolates. In Singapore, you can find artisanal chocolates that are truly special. These handcrafted delights are made with the finest ingredients, innovative flavors, and a whole lot of passion. Think of unique flavor combinations like chili padi dark chocolate, durian pralines, or even chocolates infused with local spices.

• Price: Typically ranges from $12 to $20 SGD per bar (around 60g), with boxes of bonbons or specialty items often priced higher.
• Where to buy: Specialty chocolate shops like Mr. Bucket Chocolaterie.

17. Chilli Crab Recipe Plate

Singapore's cuisine is a major draw for tourists, and what better way to remember your gastronomic adventures than with a Chilli Crab Recipe Plate? This unique souvenir combines practicality with a love for Singapore's famous dish. If you're wondering what to buy in Singapore that captures the essence of its food culture, this is it!

• Price: Approximately SGD 20.90.
• Where to buy: Various gift shops across the city.

18. Traditional Beadwork

When thinking about special things to buy in Singapore, consider Peranakan beadwork. It's a traditional craft from the Peranakan community known for its incredibly detailed and beautiful patterns made with tiny beads. You can find this stunning beadwork on items like shoes, purses, and even wall hangings.

• Where to buy: Local artisan shops in Chinatown or Little India.

>>> Read more:

3 Days in Singapore: The Ultimate Itinerary for Your Trip

Unlocking the Best Time to Visit Singapore: A Local's Guide

Singapore Travel Cost: A Complete Guide to Budgeting Your Trip

Deciding what to buy in Singapore might seem overwhelming at first, but each item on this list represents a piece of what makes this island nation truly special. From iconic Merlion souvenirs and fragrant orchid perfumes to delicious Kaya jam and exquisite Peranakan crafts, you're sure to find something special to take home. 

Don’t forget to check shipping restrictions for food items and keep some space in your luggage for these wonderful finds. And most importantly, have fun discovering all the unique treasures that Singapore has to offer. Happy shopping!