Things To Do In Bugis Singapore
A vibrant square in the heart of Singapore, Bugis is a place where culture and history meet modern convenience.
There are many things to do in Singapore, but many of these experiences might keep us coming back to Bugis time and again. Whether it’s going to the hawker centres or the modern heartland malls, the vibrant markets or the historical landmarks, Bugis is a place that many of us have visited before.
If you’re looking for what to do in Bugis, the bustling neighbourhood is the perfect place to spend a day. From history enthusiasts to shopping fanatics, and food fanatics, here are some of the best things to do in Bugis in 2024.
Best Things To Do In Bugis Singapore
Shopping Extravaganza
1. Explore Bugis Street Market
This is a ‘must visit’ place if you enjoy shopping! Bugis Street Market is a shopping heaven, the cheapest shopping area in Singapore with various kinds of product from clothes, accessories, shoes, batik, handphone decoration, backpacks, colorful purses, braids, key chains, mp3 players, leather belts, wooden pieces and cute Japanese toys as well.
While shopping there, you will be attracted by cunning aroma of wide array of street foods with their tempting features such as satay, goreng pisang (fried banana). Enjoy shopping as much as you can, and haggling for every items. First-hand shoppers, be aware with your valuables and handbags, and wear comfortable shoes.
2. Shop at Bugis Junction
Home to some of the city’s top shops, there’s something for everyone at Bugis Junction: one of the city’s largest, most modern shopping malls, complete with nine levels of hip brands and local designers. From the latest fashion and accessories from top international brands to the prettiest party frocks from local designers, most of Bugis’ top shopping can be found within an easy stroll – and a roof.
Don’t forget to check out the massive glass-covered shoppers’ temple between the two buildings (for which you no longer need an umbrella) leading up to the shops. For a cafe break or a film, head up.
Cultural and Historical Exploration
3. Visit the National Library
Besides for the millions of texts it holds, the National Library of Singapore is a sight to behold. Aside from the massive collections, the spacious and quiet reading rooms and vistas of Singapore with its verdant mountain backdrop is quite the sight. Get a sense of the city state’s evolution over the years through the many galleries inside.
4. Admire the Sultan Mosque
The Sultan Mosque is one of the biggest landmarks which you must visit in Bugis when you arrive in Singapore.
With an extraordinarily tall golden dome, the mosque is built as far back as 1824. It is a significant part of the Muslim heritage in Singapore. You can enter the mosque during all times except for those where there is a prayer. However, it’s recommended to dress properly and respect others on the place!
5. Pray at Hajjah Fatimah Mosque
The second notable mosque in Bugis is the Hajjah Fatimah Mosque built with a mix of Islamic and European architectural styles that is bound to impress any history or architecture buff. It’s named after a Malay millionairess philanthropist who funded much of its construction. Visitors can learn about its history while marveling at its unique design.
Art and Heritage Appreciation
6. Stroll Through Haji Lane
Nowhere embodies hipster cool quite like Haji Lane in Singapore. This tightly packed street is lined with a burst of colours on its murals, independent boutiques and hipster cafes.
It’s a great spot to take photos for your Instagram feed, to shop for unique fashion items, and spend an afternoon escaping from the outside world. Come early in the morning, or at the end of the day, to avoid the crowds, where you can experience its vibe at its most unique.
7. Visit Chijmes
Chijmes, which was earlier a convent, then converted into a schoolhouse, is now a dining and entertainment complex with a restored chapel and its attendant buildings full to capacity with the patrons of its restaurants, bars and shops where one can dine, drink and shop until late into the night as Chijmes is the place to be at with its magical transformations in lights and music after sunset.
8. Pay Respects at Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple
The Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple is a Buddhist temple to the Goddess of Mercy that’s a place of worship and cultural site in a network of old religious buildings. With its multi-hued facade, grand temple halls and calming atmosphere, it’s a beautiful showcase of Singapore’s religious heritage. Visit during Chinese New Year for celebrations and traditional rituals.
9. Peep into a World of Art at National Museum of Singapore
With collections and exhibitions exploring the past and present from the local’s perspective, the National Museum of Singapore is an excellent place to unveil the nation’s history through its period rooms, thematic galleries and rotating exhibitions. For adults seeking historical insights and children in search of a fun experience, the museum’s extensive interactive displays are a major draw.
10. Experience Historical Wonders at Malay Heritage Centre
Situated at the heart of Singapore’s bustling business district, the Malay Heritage Centre aims to cherish, uphold and exhibit Malay culture, art and history in a restored palace building. The heritage centre houses three floors of artifacts and precious relics, with interactive exhibitions and cultural classes.
Exhibits comprise Malay customs, traditions, and arts, as well as their contributions towards the independent city-state’s economic and social growth.
Leisure and Relaxation
11. Relax at the Cat Café
The city’s kitten-cuddling brigade can sigh in relief. At the Cat Café in Bugis, a small pride of cats (rescued by Tabby’s Cat, an animal shelter) can be stroked in between every sip of coffee or tea. What’s not to like? Reaching stress-free nirvana should never be this easy.
12. Take a Walk Around Arab Street
.webp/tr:w-500)
Arab Street is well known for its assortment of curio shops selling oriental textiles and rugs and quirky eateries peddling everything Indian to Morrocan to Middle Eastern food and the area is also home to one of Singapore’s largest mosques.
13. Taste Local Flavors at Albert Centre
Albert Centre is one of those hawker centres with an array of local dishes. Pick and choose from when most locals in Singapore have popular noodle soups, Hainanese chicken rice and cool down with a bowl or chendol. The stalls might overwhelm you with choices but check with the locals and ask which has the must-try dishes. Bring some cash for payment and most importantly, go hungry.
Things To Do In Bugis Singapore
Bugis is a neighbourhood in Singapore filled with culture and historical landmarks, amazing bars and live music, and delicious foods.
From wandering and learning about the history of Bugis, to discovering a new street artist or enjoying your coffee in a theme café, Bugis has something for everyone. You never know what to expect from each visit to this eclectic neighbourhood. Each time you visit, there’s always something new to explore and remember!
It is a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike.
Check out some of our other related articles and guides below:
- Best Things to Do in Singapore (2024)
- Best Indoor Activities in Singapore (2024)
- Best Outdoor Activities in Singapore (2024)
- Best Things To Do At Changi Airport Singapore (2024)
- Best Things To Do In Jewel Singapore (2024)
- Best Things to Do in Jurong Singapore (2024)
- Best Things to Do in Sentosa Singapore (2024)
- Best Things to Do in the East Singapore (2024)
- Best Things to Do in West Singapore (2024)
- Best Shopping Destinations in Singapore (2024)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you have any questions about things to do in Bugis Singapore, you can refer to the frequently asked questions (FAQ) about best Things To Do In Bugis Singapore below:
What is the best time to visit Bugis?
The best time to visit Bugis is in the period from February until April as the dry season provides much better conditions for outdoor activities. That said, Bugis is a vibrant and lively place and the dry season is not the only option for visiting. The area abounds with shops, restaurants and other entertainment venues and therefore it is a perfect vacation destination all-year-round.
How can I get to Bugis?
It is accessible by any means of transportation. The best choice is by mass rapid transit (MRT), which train station connected with Bugis station on Downtown line and East-West Line. There are many different bus routes pass by Bugis, which allow people can get any part of Singapore to reach to Bugis. By taxi or Uber can drop you directly to the middle of Bugis.
Are there any free attractions in Bugis?
The key places that are must-go to in Bugis are free – Haji Lane for its bright murals and one-off boutiques; Sultan Mosque for gorgeous architecture; and the National Library for its tranquility and occasionally public exhibitions.
What are the must-try foods in Bugis?
Even though Bugis District is also a good place to do shopping, most tourists come to Bugis for the food, which itself is diverse enough to satisfy any culinary enthusiast. You can get authentic street food at Bugis Street Market, Hainanese chicken rice at Albert Centre, and desserts such as chendol. There are also many cafés and restaurants serving traditional and modern cuisine for you to explore further.
Is Bugis family-friendly?
It is a great family outing that caters to the needs of different age groups with its child-friendly sections of the National Library, guided tours at the Sultan Mosque, family-friendly shopping and entertainment outlets at Bugis Junction and Bugis+ and a lively daytime vibe.
