Shopping in Singapore is a true pleasure, not available in every corner of the world. Here you’ll find everything from huge malls to small shops of local artisans. However, prices here are not as “Asian” as you might expect, and are closer to European and American ones.

Orchard Road is home to luxury brand stores, including major shopping malls and boutiques of famous global brands. At ION Orchard, you’ll find Prada, Dior, D&G, Cartier, and Hugo Boss. The Paragon offers Gucci, Bvlgari, Burberry, Jimmy Choo, Armani Exchange, Calvin Klein Jeans, and DKNY. For local designers, try Tangs Plaza, Robinsons, and Design Orchard, which features over 60 local brands. Here on Orchard Road, you can find popular Asian goods such as CYC shirts, Risis and Purple Gold jewelry, Tessere leather bags, and Eu Yan Sang apothecary cosmetics.

An alternative is The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, where you can visit the Louis Vuitton island boutique and the giant floating sphere—the Apple flagship store. For those looking for affordable prices, Bugis Village is a great option: here you can find affordable brands and bargain.

Shops in Singapore are open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and until 10:00 PM on weekends; smaller shops close for lunch.

The best time to shop is during Singapore’s Grand Sale, which runs from late May through July/August and offers discounts of up to 70%. The city’s best markets are Geylang Serai and Tiong Bahru, where you can find fresh produce and exotic dishes like shark meat. For lovers of handmade goods and unique accessories, the art markets with exclusive goods and vintage finds are ideal. For example, the Muslim quarter of Kampong Gelam is a mix of history, fashion, and stylish boutiques, including the hipster street Haji Lane with its authentic shops that have been operating for many years.