Singapore may be small, but there’s no dearth of fun here. Having explored every nook and cranny, I’ve discovered a wealth of captivating and underrated places and I’m here to share them with you.
My favourite place to explore has to be Bugis, right in the heart of Singapore, teeming with life and activity. From vibrant street markets to tranquil temples and hidden gems, this neighbourhood is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
So grab your gang and get ready for an adventure as I’m about to let you in on some of Bugis’s highlights and best-kept secrets.
01 • Bugis Street
First up on our list of things to do in Bugis is, of course, Bugis Street. Picture row upon row of stalls selling everything from trendy clothes and quirky phone accessories to delicious street food.
The air is filled with a mix of chatter, music, and the aroma of grilled food. You can easily spend an hour or two here, bargaining for a new outfit or just soaking in the lively atmosphere. This iconic spot is a sensory overload in the best way possible.
📍 Address: 261 Victoria Street, Singapore 189876
⏰ Opening hours: 10:00am – 10:00pm daily
🌐 Website: bugis-street/en.html
02 • Kampong Glam
Just a stone’s throw away is Kampong Glam. These streets have lived a rich life, witnessing the growth of the local Malay and Muslim heritage. Today, it is conserved and appreciated for its historical significance.
Within the well-known cultural landmark lies Haji Lane, a vibrant, narrow street that’s full of personality. Once filled with dilapidated shophouses, it was brought back to life by indie boutiques, unique cafes, and stunning street art. It's the perfect spot to hunt for a one-of-a-kind outfit or just chill with a coffee and people-watch.
The buildings there are painted in a kaleidoscope of colours, making it a dream for anyone who lives for the “gram”. If you’re one for aesthetics, you will find no lack of it here.
📍 Address: 17 Bussorah Street, Singapore 199438
⏰ Opening hours: 24hours
🌐 Website: visitkamponggelam.com
03 • Bugis Junction and Bugis Plus
Sweaty and tired from the unrelenting Singapore heat? Bugis Junction and Bugis+ are two interconnected shopping malls, home to delicious eateries, trendy retail stores and fun pop-ups.
Bugis Junction has an old-school charm with a glass-covered street that feels like you're walking outdoors, even though you’re protected from the heat. I’ve spent countless hours window shopping here, admiring their limitless options of fashion stores and clothing.
Bugis+ on the other hand, is buzzing with great food and entertainment. 7 floors high, each packed with a plethora of food, leisure and retail stores, there’s at least a week’s worth of activities here. Gaming, arcades, movies, bouldering, and even fishing?! Trust me, this mall is far more than meets the eye.
📍 Address: 200 Victoria Street, Singapore 188021
📞 Phone: 6557 6557
⏰ Opening hours: 10:00am – 10:00pm daily
🌐 Website: capitaland.com
04 • National Museum of Singapore
History buffs this one’s for you! This National Monument has been proudly telling Singapore’s story for decades.
The National Museum of Singapore is Singapore’s oldest museum and offers a wide array of exhibitions. Permanent exhibitions such as the Singapore History Gallery trace the nation's 700-year journey. They also offer more exclusive short-term exhibitions such as "Once Upon a Tide: Singapore’s Journey from Settlement to Global City", which delves into the role of the sea and river in the transformation of Singapore.
Beyond the exhibitions, the museum is an architectural landmark with stunning details like its iconic dome and spiral staircase, making it a great place to explore.
📍 Address: 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897
📞 Phone: 6332 3659
⏰ Opening hours: 10:00am – 6:30pm daily
🌐 Website: nationalmuseum
05 • National Library
Just a short walk away, you'll find the majestic National Library. Don’t be mistaken, it's not just for bookworms! This library is infamous for accommodating studious students with its vast and comfortable interior. I, for one, recall sitting here for hours doing some last minute cramming.
However, don’t overlook the other perks of this library. If you’re looking to escape from the city heat and noise, you are sure to find some peace and tranquility here. Furnished with comfortable seatings and charging ports all around, it makes a perfect hideaway when you just want to chill.
Within this building you will also find Drama Center Theater. If you find yourself bored with time to kill, you can catch one of their plays, operas, and occasionally even dance productions.
📍 Address: 100 Victoria Street, Singapore 188064
⏰ Opening hours: 10:00am – 9:00pm daily
🌐 Website: nlb.gov
06 • Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple
Amidst the hustle and bustle of Bugis, you’ll find the Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple, a tranquil sanctuary dedicated to Guan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy.
This temple holds a very special place in the hearts of many Singaporeans, not just for its beautiful architecture but for the sense of hope and comfort it offers. Many of my friends, regardless of their religious beliefs, come here to pray for good fortune, blessings, and peace for themselves and their loved ones.
📍 Address: 178 Waterloo Street, Singapore 187964
⏰ Opening hours: 7:00am – 6:30pm daily
🌐 Website: kwanimthonghoodchotemple
07 • Sri Krishnan Temple
Right next door is the vibrant Sri Krishnan Temple, a beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and his consort Rukmini.
Walls washed with vibrant hues of blue, carved with intricate patterns and motifs, it is a brilliant tribute to classical South Indian styled architecture. The entrance and perimeter are adorned by countless Hindu deities and designs plated in Copper and Gold. Truly a feast for the eyes and a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Hindu culture right in the heart of the city.
📍 Address: 152 Waterloo Street, Singapore 187961
📞 Phone: 6337 7957
⏰ Opening hours: 8:00am – 12:00pm, 6:00pm – 8:45pm daily
🌐 Website: SriKrishnanTemple
08 • Vintage Camera Museum
Ready for some truly unique things to do in Bugis? This place is hidden away but trust me, it is worth the detour.
Shaped like a gigantic camera, this quirky spot houses over 1,000 vintage cameras, from box cameras, to early 3D camera models and even secret spy cameras. It offers an exciting interactive experience, showcasing the evolution of cameras over 137 years and the history of photography. It's a great place to geek out over old technology and snap some seriously cool photos.
📍 Address: 8C Jalan Kledek, Singapore 199263
📞 Phone: 6291 2278
⏰ Opening hours: 11:00am – 7:00pm daily
🌐 Website: vintagecamerasmuseumsg.com/
(Featured photo adapted from: Thrillophilia, Vintage Cameras Museum, Suki-Ya, Ideal Connection)
