Shopping on Orchard Road, the street with a name that resonates with both luxury shoppers and bargain hunters alike, stands as the beacon of Singapore’s retail excellence. This bustling boulevard, stretching over 2.2 kilometers, is not just a shopping street; it’s a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, modernity, and gastronomy, offering an unparalleled shopping and dining experience in the heart of Singapore.
A Stroll Through History: Orchard Road’s Evolution
Orchard Road’s journey from a tranquil lane lined with fruit orchards, nutmeg plantations, and pepper farms in the early 19th century to a contemporary shopping paradise is nothing short of remarkable. The transformation began in 1958 when TANGS, Singapore’s first department store, opened its doors, paving the way for Orchard Road to become the bustling shopping district it is today. The architectural marvel of TANGS, with its Forbidden City-inspired façade, set a precedent for the retail and architectural grandeur that was to follow.
The Retail Realm: A Shopper’s Paradise
Today, Orchard Road offers a shopping experience that caters to every palate and pocket. From the historic charm of TANGS to the futuristic allure of ION Orchard, the street is lined with a diverse array of shopping malls and outlets. ION Orchard, a beacon of modern retail with its impressive architecture and an array of international brands, luxury boutiques, and high-street labels, offers eight levels of retail therapy.
For those with a penchant for fine spirits, The Grande Whisky Collection in ION Orchard is a must-visit. Housing some of the world’s rarest whiskies, it offers tastings and tours for enthusiasts. Art aficionados can find solace at the ION Art Gallery, showcasing a mix of local and international exhibitions.
Far East Plaza presents a contrasting vibe with its eclectic mix of street fashion, affordable beauty services, and tech gadgets, catering to the younger crowd and bargain hunters.
Top 11 Shopping Malls on Orchard Road: A Shopper’s Guide to Singapore’s Retail Paradise
Orchard Road, Singapore’s premier shopping district, offers an eclectic mix of malls that cater to every taste and budget. From the historic to the ultra-modern, this guide uncovers the top 12 shopping destinations along the iconic boulevard, ensuring your retail adventure in Singapore is nothing short of spectacular.
1. ION Orchard: A Modern Marvel
Address: 2 Orchard Turn, Singapore 238801
Contact: +65 6238-8228
Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
ION Orchard stands as a beacon of modern retail, its striking glass and steel façade drawing shoppers from afar. Known for its luxury brands, fine-dining experiences, and the ION Sky observation deck, it’s a must-visit for those looking to indulge in high-end shopping and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
2. Paragon Shopping Centre: The Epitome of Luxury
Address: 290 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238859
Contact: +65 6738-5535
Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Paragon is a synonym for luxury on Orchard Road, offering an array of high-end brands, health stores, and art galleries. Its prime location and upscale offerings make it a favorite among discerning shoppers and fitness enthusiasts alike.
3. Ngee Ann City: A Community Hub
Address: 319 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238873
Contact: +65 6506-0460
Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Ngee Ann City is a sprawling complex that blends shopping with culture, hosting Takashimaya Department Store, Kinokuniya bookstore, and a plethora of designer brands. Its event spaces are vibrant hubs for bazaars, concerts, and fashion shows, offering a unique shopping experience.
4. Plaza Singapura: A Diverse Shopping Destination
Address: 68 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238839
Contact: +65 6332-9248
Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Plaza Singapura, with its rich history and modern renovations, offers a wide range of shops, including Chanel, MUJI, and Yamaha. It’s a shopper’s paradise that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences.
5. 313@Somerset: Trendy and Affordable
Address: 313 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238895
Contact: +65 6496-9313
Opening Hours: Mon-Thu, Sun: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Fri-Sat: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
313@Somerset is known for its accessible fashion and lifestyle brands. This mall is a hotspot for those looking for trendy yet affordable shopping options, with international brands like % Arabica and MANGO gracing its floors.
6. Orchard Central: A Sky-High Shopping Experience
Address: 181 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238896
Contact: +65 6238-1051
Opening Hours: Daily: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Orchard Central, with its distinctive architecture and rooftop garden, offers a unique shopping experience. Don’t miss the 24-hour DON DON DONKI for a taste of Japan and the spectacular city views from the rooftop.
7. Mandarin Gallery: Chic and Exclusive
Address: 33A Orchard Rd, Singapore 238896
Contact: +65 6238-1051
Opening Hours: Daily: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Mandarin Gallery is where luxury shopping meets culinary delights. Home to premium brands and exquisite dining options, this mall is perfect for those looking to indulge in high-end shopping and gourmet experiences.
8. Orchard Gateway: A Gateway to Style and Knowledge
Address: 277 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238858
Contact: +65 6513-4633
Opening Hours: Daily: 10:30 AM – 10:30 PM
Orchard Gateway offers a blend of fashion, lifestyle, and a unique library experience. It’s a serene spot for book lovers and shoppers alike, bridging the gap between retail and leisure.
9. Wisma Atria: Fashion Forward
Address: 435 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238877
Contact: +65 6235-2103
Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Wisma Atria is a fashionista’s dream, with a diverse array of brands from Lacoste to Charles & Keith. The mall also offers a variety of casual dining options to refuel during a shopping spree.
10. The Centrepoint: A Culinary Adventure
Address: 176 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238843
Contact: +65 6737-9000
Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
The Centrepoint stands out for its extensive dining options spread across six levels. Whether craving local delicacies or international cuisines, this mall satisfies all appetites, coupled with shopping from its diverse retail outlets.
11. Far East Plaza: The Trendsetter’s Choice
Address: 14 Scotts Rd, Singapore 228213
Contact: +65 6734-2325
Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Far East Plaza is the go-to for affordable fashion, unique finds, and eclectic shops. It’s a favorite among the young and budget-conscious, offering a break from the more upscale malls on Orchard Road.
Read Also: Top 20 Biggest Malls in Singapore: Best Shopping Centres 2024
Don’t Miss The Best Tours in Singapore
What Else To Do on Orchard Road? Go To Bowling!
After a day of exploring the bustling streets and shops of Orchard Road, why not switch gears and enjoy a more relaxed yet equally entertaining activity? Head over to the heart of Orchard Road for an exciting round or two of bowling with your friends and family. It’s the perfect way to unwind and have fun in a laid-back environment.
Culinary Delights and Dining on Orchard Road: Where to Eat?
Orchard Road, known for its bustling shopping scene, is also a haven for food enthusiasts. From local hawker fare to international gourmet experiences, this iconic street offers a diverse palette of culinary delights that cater to every taste and craving.
Local Hawker Centers: A Taste of Singapore’s Street Food
Adam Road Food Centre and Newton Food Centre are prime spots for experiencing Singapore’s renowned street food culture. At Adam Road, the nasi lemak, with its fragrant coconut rice and spicy sambal, stands out as a must-try.
Meanwhile, Newton Food Centre, highlighted in the movie “Crazy Rich Asians,” offers a wide range of dishes, including seafood, laksa, satay, and the refreshing ice kachang. Though prices may be slightly higher, the quality and variety make it worth the visit.
Best Cafes on Orchard Road: Beyond Coffee
Orchard Road’s cafe scene thrives with places like Walking on Sunshine, Oriole Coffee and Bar, Cafe&Meal Muji, and The Assembly Ground, offering not just excellent coffee but also a wide array of brunch and dining options.
From the nature-inspired ambiance of Walking on Sunshine to the minimalist charm of Cafe&Meal Muji, each cafe provides a unique setting for relaxation and indulgence.
Premier Dining: Orchard Road’s Restaurant Scene
The restaurant lineup on Orchard Road includes a mix of local and international cuisines, with places like Merci Marcel, Beni, Sushi Ayumu, and Bonding Kitchen standing out.
Whether it’s the French cuisine in a tropical setting at Merci Marcel, the French-Japanese fusion at Beni, or contemporary Peranakan dishes at Bonding Kitchen, these restaurants offer culinary experiences that are both memorable and exquisite.
Entertainment and Nightlife: Orchard Road After Dark
As night falls, Orchard Road transforms into a lively hub of entertainment and nightlife. Cinemas, bars, and lounges come alive, offering everything from movie screenings to sophisticated cocktail experiences.
Bars like The Other Room, Manhattan, and Astor are perfect for enjoying a night out, each with its unique offerings, from bespoke cocktails at The Other Room to the artisanal spirits of Manhattan, and the New York-inspired ambience of Astor.
Tips for Enjoying Orchard Road’s Culinary Scene
- Explore Beyond the Malls: While the shopping malls offer a wide range of dining options, exploring the nearby hawker centers and independent cafes can provide a more authentic and varied culinary experience.
- Book Ahead for Popular Spots: For the more renowned restaurants and cafes, making reservations in advance is advisable to avoid disappointment.
- Night Photography: After your dining experience, take the opportunity to capture Orchard Road’s vibrant night scene, with fewer crowds and the stunning display of lights.
- Late-Night Shopping at DON DON DONKI: For those looking for a unique late-night shopping experience, DON DON DONKI at Orchard Central offers an array of quirky and interesting Japanese products, perfect for late-night snacking or finding unique souvenirs.
Read Also: Adrenaline Activities in Singapore: Extreme Sports & Things to Do in 2024
Where to Stay on Orchard Road: Luxury to Budget Hotels
Orchard Road, Singapore’s premier shopping and entertainment district, also boasts a range of accommodations that cater to every preference and budget. From the opulence of luxury hotels to the innovative efficiency of budget-friendly options, here’s where to stay when you’re visiting this vibrant area.
Luxury Hotels on Orchard Road
Four Seasons Singapore
Nestled in a serene tree-lined street yet a stone’s throw away from the bustling Orchard Road, the Four Seasons Singapore epitomizes luxury and comfort. The hotel is renowned for its fine-dining Cantonese restaurant, Jiang-Nan Chun, which has earned a Michelin star for its exquisite cuisine. Guests can enjoy premium amenities such as a Club floor with indoor-outdoor tennis courts, a gym, spa, an outdoor lap pool, and a family pool on the rooftop
The accommodation options range from the spacious 49sqm deluxe rooms to the lavish 155sqm suites, which include a lounge area, dining room, and kitchenette, ensuring every guest’s needs are met with elegance and sophistication. The bathrooms, featuring a separate tub and shower, add an extra touch of luxury to your stay. Conveniently connected to Hilton Singapore via an air-conditioned walkway, the Four Seasons offers a tranquil retreat right in the heart of the city.
- Address: 190 Orchard Blvd
- Price: From S$320
- Getting There: A 7-minute walk from Orchard MRT station
Marriott Tang Plaza
The Marriott Tang Plaza, with its iconic octagonal, green-tiled pagoda roof, is a landmark of luxury directly opposite ION Orchard. The hotel, which is reopening after a thorough refurbishment, offers an array of amenities including a spa, swimming pool, gym, and a half-size basketball court. Dining options abound with the Michelin-starred Ginza Sushi Ichi, the exquisite Cantonese restaurant Wan Hao, Marriott Café, and the Prohibition-style bar, The Other Room. The 392 rooms range from deluxe (36sqm) to expansive suites, with executive rooms providing access to the executive Lounge for additional perks such as complimentary continental breakfast and evening cocktails.
- Address: 320 Orchard Road
- Price: From S$
- Getting There: Less than a 5-minute walk through an underground walkway to Orchard Rd MRT
Read Also: 15 Famous Hotels in Singapore: Best in the World? 2024
Budget-Friendly Hotel Option on Orchard Road
Yotel Singapore
Yotel Singapore brings the concept of compact luxury to Orchard Road, offering a smart space where functionality meets comfort. Despite the rooms being modest in size at 14sqm, they are ingeniously designed to maximize space. The adjustable bed, which faces the TV, can be repositioned for sleeping, TV watching, or working, ensuring every inch is utilized effectively. The bathroom and shower space are discreetly concealed behind a frosted glass door, maintaining privacy and style. The hotel also features amenities like a pool and gym on level 10 and Komyuniti for dining options, providing everything you need for a comfortable stay right next to the Isetan Scotts/Shaw Centre on Orchard Rd.
- Address: 366 Orchard Road
- Price: From S$158
- Getting There: A 5-minute walk to Orchard MRT
Getting to Orchard Road: A Comprehensive Guide
Orchard Road, the shopping and entertainment heart of Singapore, is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, making it a convenient destination for both locals and tourists. Here’s how you can reach this bustling boulevard from different parts of the city.
By Mass Rapid Transit (MRT)
The MRT is the most efficient way to get to Orchard Road. The Orchard MRT station (NS22), situated beneath the iconic ION Orchard mall, and the Somerset MRT station (NS23) are the two primary stops for visitors heading to this shopping paradise.
- From The Scarlet Singapore:
- Nearest MRT Station: Telok Ayer Station (Downtown Line, blue line) is about a 5-minute walk away.
- Route: Take the Downtown Line from Telok Ayer Station.
- Transfer: At Newton MRT Station, switch to the North-South Line (red line) heading towards Jurong East.
- Final Stop: Alight at Orchard MRT Station. The entire journey should take around 20-25 minutes.
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Services
For those preferring a direct route without the need for transfers, taxis or ride-hailing services like Grab offer a convenient alternative.
- Direct from The Scarlet Singapore: Simply book a ride from your location.
- Travel Time: Expect a 10-15 minute drive to Orchard Road, traffic permitting.
By Bus
Opting for the bus provides a scenic route through the city, albeit with a potentially longer journey time.
- Bus Services: Various buses serve the area around Orchard Road. Key services include numbers 36, 54, 124, 126, 143, 167, among others.
- Planning Your Route: Check the latest bus schedules and routes, as these may change and could involve transfers depending on your starting point.
Read Also: Public Buses in Singapore: Transport Guide for Tourists 2024
Walking
For those who enjoy exploring the city on foot, walking to Orchard Road is a viable option, especially from nearby locations.
- From The Scarlet Singapore: It’s approximately a 45-minute walk, offering a scenic and leisurely way to experience the city’s vibrant streets and landmarks.
Beyond Shopping on Orchard Road: A Cultural and Social Experience
Orchard Road’s allure is not limited to shopping and dining. The street’s vibrant atmosphere is augmented by its historic sites, like the quaint terrace houses along Emerald Hill Road, offering a glimpse into Singapore’s architectural heritage. The nearby Newton Food Centre provides a taste of local hawker fare, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of Singapore.
Orchard Road is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that reflects the dynamic spirit of Singapore. Whether you’re a fashion aficionado, a food lover, or a history buff, Orchard Road offers a slice of Singapore’s best, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to capture the essence of this bustling city-state.
If You Liked Our Article About Shopping on Orchard Road in Singapore, You Also Might Like
- Shopping in Chinatown Singapore: Shops & Malls (2024 Guide)
- Jewel Changi Airport in Singapore: Things to Do, Eat & Hotels 2024
- Shopping on Orchard Road in Singapore: Malls, Stores & Dining 2024
- Top 20 Biggest Malls in Singapore: Best Shopping Centres 2024
- Duty-Free Shopping in Singapore: Airport & City Centre 2024
Don’t Miss The Best Tours in Singapore