Let’s enjoy shopping at the shopping spots on Orchard Road!

Shopping is one of the main highlights of a trip to Singapore. Orchard Road is a true shopping paradise, lined with flagship stores of famous boutiques, shopping malls, and department stores like Takashimaya and Isetan. The most prominent feature of Orchard Road is its uniquely styled shopping malls. Many of the malls near the MRT stations are connected by underground walkways, allowing you to enjoy shopping without stepping outside during hot weather or rain. Here are some recommended shopping spots around Orchard Road.

1. ION Orchard

With its striking and unforgettable exterior, ION Orchard, which opened in 2009, is one of the busiest shopping malls in Singapore, drawing an average of 4.2 million visitors per month. Conveniently located with direct access from Orchard MRT Station, the mall features approximately 350 stores, making it an all-day destination for shoppers.

On the 1st floor, you'll find luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Yves Saint Laurent, and Christian Dior. The 2nd floor houses Singapore’s famous tea brand TWG's tea salon alongside Burberry and other brand shops. The 3rd floor features popular brands like Furla and Anteprima, while the 4th floor offers daily goods and even the Singapore Airlines office. From B1 to B3, the mall focuses on casual fashion brands geared toward younger shoppers.

A top recommendation is the food hall on B4, which includes a food court with renowned local dishes such as Laksa and Bak Kut Teh, and a Chinese dessert shop called Mei Heong Yuen Dessert—perfect for taking a break during your shopping spree.

2. Cold Storage

The stylish supermarket "Cold Storage" began in the early 1900s as a shop selling imported frozen meats from Australia. By the 1960s, it evolved into the supermarket style we know today and has become one of Singapore's leading supermarkets. With its extensive selection of imported food items, it’s popular not only with locals but also with expatriates from the West. Some locations operate 24 hours and even sell classic Singaporean souvenirs like Merlion cookies.

Cold Storage also features a build-your-own pizza topping station and salad bar, attracting businesspeople and office workers seeking a quick and healthy lunch. Exploring local supermarkets while abroad can be an enjoyable experience, and Cold Storage—Singapore’s pioneering supermarket—is a great place to visit. You might find some unique souvenirs!

3. Forum

Among the many malls in the Orchard area, "Forum" stands out as a family-friendly shopping mall. Located just a 5-minute walk from Orchard Station, the three-story Forum features restaurants and adult fashion on the 1st floor, and children’s clothing on the 2nd floor, including kids’ lines from major adult brands. It also has an indoor playground (entry fee required) for children ages 0 to 12—an ideal option for entertaining kids in Singapore’s hot climate.

The entire 3rd floor is a Toys“R”Us store! Even children who usually get bored with shopping will be delighted here. This mall is also recommended for those looking to buy slightly more formal children’s clothes.

4. Bengawan Solo

With over 40 stores across Singapore, Bengawan Solo is one of the country’s most iconic confectionery shops. Along Orchard Road, you can find it in locations such as ION Orchard and the basement food floor of Takashimaya. Singaporean sweets are often fresh and perishable, which makes souvenir-friendly options surprisingly rare—but Bengawan Solo offers a variety of treats perfect for gifting.

Pineapple tarts, cookies packaged in cute hexagonal boxes, and prawn-flavored snacks like prawn rolls are tasty and long-lasting—ideal for souvenirs. Local favorites include chiffon cakes and roll cakes tinted green with pandan leaf, as well as Peranakan traditional sweets, which are part of Singapore’s cultural heritage. Though these fresh treats may not be suitable for bringing back home, they make for perfect snacks during your stay.

◎ Summary

Shopping along Orchard Road is best enjoyed by exploring its various shopping malls. Each mall has its own unique style, so hopping from one to another can be a fun way to compare. True to Singapore’s love of dining out, every shopping center is well-equipped with restaurants and food courts, making it a perfect opportunity to enjoy some food-hopping as well.