Where to Go & What to Buy on Orchard Road

Orchard Road is a 2.2-kilometer retail boulevard that serves as the commercial heart of Singapore. From futuristic glass megamalls to historic department stores, this district offers a diverse shopping experience ranging from high-end couture to affordable local treasures.

ION Orchard: The Pinnacle of Luxury Fashion

ION Orchard (Photo by www.cict.com.sg)

As the "futuristic beacon" of the street, ION Orchard is the premier destination for high-end global brands like Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Harry Winston. This architectural marvel houses over 300 stores, with the lower levels dedicated to popular high-street brands like Zara and Sephora, while the upper levels focus on exclusive luxury duplexes. Beyond fashion, visitors can visit the ION Sky observation deck on the 55th floor for panoramic city views or explore the ION Art Gallery for contemporary exhibitions.

Design Orchard: Homegrown Singaporean Talent

Design Orchard (Photo by www.visitsingapore.com)

Located at the junction of Orchard and Cairnhill Road, Design Orchard is a curated showcase for over 100 local Singaporean designers. It is the best place to find unique, "City in Nature" inspired souvenirs, such as The Lab Fragrances perfumes, sustainable apparel from Raja Rani, and whimsical locally-themed socks from Talking Toes. The building also features a public rooftop amphitheater and garden, providing a lush green escape from the bustling retail crowds below.

Ngee Ann City: Japanese Excellence and Heritage

Ngee Ann City (Photo by Wikipedia/Nicolas Lannuzel)

Recognizable by its distinctive red granite twin towers, Ngee Ann City is anchored by the massive Takashimaya Department Store. This mall is a "one-stop shop" for Japanese cosmetics, household goods, and gourmet treats, including the famous Pandan Chiffon Cake from Bengawan Solo. It also houses Kinokuniya, one of the largest bookstores in Southeast Asia, and luxury boutiques like Cartier and Dior, making it a staple for shoppers looking for quality and variety under one roof.

TANGS at Tang Plaza: The Original Shopping Landmark

Tang Plaza (Photo by www.visitsingapore.com)

Established in 1932, TANGS is Singapore's oldest department store and is famous for its iconic Chinese-style architecture with green-tiled roofs. It remains a top choice for travelers looking for Asian-inspired homeware, collectibles, and tropical fashion from the "Island Shop." The beauty hall is particularly well-regarded, offering a wide array of international skincare brands alongside local favorites like Skin Inc, ensuring a sophisticated shopping experience rooted in Singaporean history.

Far East Plaza & Lucky Plaza: High-Street Bargains

Far East Plaza (Photo by Facebook/Far East Plaza)

For those on a budget, these two malls offer an eclectic mix of affordable fashion and "hidden gem" finds. Far East Plaza is a favorite among youth for its affordable street style, Korean-inspired fashion, and budget-friendly beauty salons, while Lucky Plaza is the go-to spot for discounted perfumes, electronics, and Filipino delicacies. These malls allow for a more casual shopping experience where haggling is sometimes possible, and deals under $20 are common.

313@somerset: Young, Hip, and Trendy

313@somerset (Photo by www.313somerset.com.sg)

Directly connected to the Somerset MRT, 313@somerset is a vibrant hub tailored for the younger crowd, featuring popular international labels like Uniqlo, Cotton On, and Forever 21. The mall is known for its "Discovery Walk," a street-level dining stretch lined with bars and bistros that stay lively late into the night. It is the ideal spot to find trendy footwear and fast-fashion staples at competitive prices compared to the luxury malls further up the road.