Chijmes, Singapore - Christmas lights along Orchard Road, Singapore
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Chijmes Singapore

4.5
·12k reviews·Singapore, Singapore

A beautifully restored 19th-century convent turned vibrant dining and events hub, blending history with modern Singaporean life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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Chijmes, Singapore - Christmas lights along Orchard Road, Singapore

Chijmes Singapore

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautifully restored 19th-century convent turned vibrant dining and events hub, blending history with modern Singaporean life.

4.5
(12k reviews)

"CHIJMES offers a magical blend of history, romance, and culinary delights in the heart of Singapore."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Architecture

Don't miss the stunning Gothic architecture! Visit during the day for natural light and fewer crowds.

🍽️ Diverse Dining Options

From Italian to Indian, CHIJMES offers a wide range of restaurants. Explore new flavors!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

CHIJMES Hall

CHIJMES Hall

Main Courtyard

A breathtaking Gothic-inspired hall, perfect for events and stunning photos. Its grandeur is truly captivating.

The Chapel

The Chapel

Interior of CHIJMES

A serene and beautifully restored chapel offering a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into its religious past.

Architectural Details

Architectural Details

Throughout CHIJMES

Explore the intricate facades, arches, and historical markers that tell the story of this former convent.

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to CHIJMES

CHIJMES is a popular spot, especially for its restaurants and bars. To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for weekdays outside of peak lunch and dinner hours. Weekends can get quite busy, particularly in the evenings. Consider visiting during the day for a more relaxed exploration of its historical architecture.

CHIJMES: More Than Just Food

While CHIJMES is known for its dining options, remember its rich history as a former convent. Take time to appreciate the stunning Gothic architecture and the serene chapel. Many visitors are surprised by the peaceful ambiance, especially during off-peak hours, making it a great escape from the city bustle.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Lively dining and bar scene
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Popular for dining and events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

❌Don’t go to the Marina Bay Sands Observation deck ✅Do this instead! #Singapore #capitaspring #mbs #singaporetips #exploresingapore #visitsingapore
@swizzyinsg
14.8K likes • 424.4K views

📸 Capture the Architecture

Don't miss the stunning Gothic architecture! Visit during the day for natural light and fewer crowds. Instagram

🍽️ Diverse Dining Options

From Italian to Indian, CHIJMES offers a wide range of restaurants. Explore new flavors! InstagramReddit

Beautiful architecture in Singapore …. Located in chijmes …. Historical building began as a Catholic convent known as the Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus. Address: 30 Victoria street , Singapore . ...
misscloud852
321 likes • 0 views
Opened in January 2024 at CHIJMES, DUOMO RISTORANTE (@duomoristorantesg) brings you a tasty mix of flavours from Northern and Southern Italy, using a bunch of ingredients straight from Italy, all with...
mightyfoodie
289 likes • 0 views

🤫 Seek Serenity

The chapel offers a peaceful escape. It's a beautiful spot for quiet reflection amidst the city buzz. Instagram

📅 Check for Events

CHIJMES often hosts events. Check their schedule for concerts, markets, or exhibitions. Reddit

Newly opened Italian resto, Duomo Ristorante, at Chijmes, is aptly named. Duomo means “cathedral”, and where else would be more appropriate than the meticulously restored convent school that is now Ch...
samoosg
179 likes • 12.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Architecture

Don't miss the stunning Gothic architecture! Visit during the day for natural light and fewer crowds. Instagram

🍽️ Diverse Dining Options

From Italian to Indian, CHIJMES offers a wide range of restaurants. Explore new flavors! InstagramReddit

🤫 Seek Serenity

The chapel offers a peaceful escape. It's a beautiful spot for quiet reflection amidst the city buzz. Instagram

📅 Check for Events

CHIJMES often hosts events. Check their schedule for concerts, markets, or exhibitions. Reddit

📍 Easy to Find

Located on Victoria Street, it's easily accessible by public transport. Look for the distinctive facade. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(12k reviews)

Reviews Summary

CHIJMES is widely praised for its beautiful, historic architecture and romantic ambiance, making it a top choice for dates and special occasions. Visitors enjoy the diverse range of restaurants and the lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings. However, some find the dining options to be on the pricier side, and it can get quite crowded during peak times.

"This place features beautiful architecture and also offers a variety of restaurants. It’s perfect for enjoying a meal with family and strolling around to admire the stunning buildings. It’s also easy to get to — I traveled there by bus."

Suwipa N.

"CHIJMES is such a beautiful and peaceful place with stunning architecture. I truly appreciated the respectful atmosphere and the sense of history there. The area is very clean, the people around were kind, and I felt so happy to discover such a charming and meaningful spot. Best to visit in the morning or early afternoon, as it can get quite hot later in the day. A lovely place for quiet reflection and tasteful photos."

Areta

"Old building but super aesthetic, lots of photo spots, and great selection of restaurants/bars. Perfect for chilling or a relaxed evening walk. The vibe is really different from other places in Singapore!"

Judgy Wanderer

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Romantic ambiance
Diverse dining options

What People Dislike

Can be pricey
Crowded during peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

CHIJMES is conveniently located at 30 Victoria Street. You can easily reach it via the MRT, alighting at City Hall or Bras Basah stations. Several bus routes also stop nearby. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is parking available at CHIJMES itself, as well as nearby public car parks. However, public transport is often recommended due to potential traffic congestion. Reddit

Walking is the best way to explore CHIJMES. Take your time to admire the architecture and discover the various restaurants and bars. Instagram

CHIJMES is generally accessible, with ramps and lifts available in most areas. However, it's always a good idea to check specific venue accessibility if you have particular needs. Reddit

Absolutely! CHIJMES comes alive at night with its restaurants and bars offering a vibrant atmosphere. The illuminated architecture is also a beautiful sight. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the CHIJMES complex itself is free. You only pay for food, drinks, or any specific events you attend. Instagram

The grounds of CHIJMES are generally accessible throughout the day, but individual restaurants and bars have their own operating hours, typically from late morning to late night. Reddit

The chapel at CHIJMES is usually open for visitors to admire its beauty, and there is typically no entrance fee. However, it may be closed for private events or services. Instagram

Yes, CHIJMES is a popular venue for weddings, corporate events, and parties. You can inquire directly with their events team for bookings. Reddit

General photography for personal use is usually permitted. However, professional shoots or commercial photography might require prior permission. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

CHIJMES boasts a diverse culinary scene, featuring Italian, Indian, Mexican, Japanese, and more. It's a great place to explore various cuisines. InstagramReddit

While some restaurants are upscale, you can find a range of price points. Look for lunch sets or happy hour deals. Reddit

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, and some are increasingly catering to vegan diets. It's best to check menus or ask staff. Reddit

Coriander Leaf is highly recommended for its delicious and atas (upscale) Indian cuisine, perfect for celebrations. Duomo Ristorante offers authentic Italian dishes. InstagramReddit

Definitely! The romantic ambiance, beautiful architecture, and wide selection of restaurants make CHIJMES a popular choice for date nights. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The CHIJMES Hall, the Chapel, and the courtyards with their intricate architecture are prime photo spots. The evening lights add a magical touch. Instagram

Yes, CHIJMES is beautifully lit at night, offering a different, romantic perspective for photography. Reddit

Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, while daytime provides clear views of the architecture. Evenings offer a romantic, illuminated scene. Instagram

Tripod usage might be restricted during peak hours or for professional shoots. It's best to be discreet or inquire if unsure. Instagram

Look for the blend of historical architecture with modern dining setups, or the serene beauty of the chapel for unique shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

CHIJMES can be a pleasant outing for families, especially during the day. While it's primarily known for its restaurants and bars, the historical architecture and open courtyards offer a visually interesting environment for children to explore. Some restaurants may offer kid-friendly menus. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to ensure a more relaxed experience. Reddit

Look for restaurants with more casual seating or outdoor areas where children might feel more comfortable. The spaciousness of the grounds allows for a bit of movement, but always keep an eye on little ones, especially near stairs or busy dining areas. The historical aspect can also be a gentle introduction to Singapore's heritage for older children. Instagram

🥂 Couples and Date Nights

CHIJMES is a quintessential spot for date nights in Singapore. The combination of stunning historical architecture, romantic ambiance, and a wide array of dining options makes it incredibly appealing. Many restaurants offer intimate settings, perfect for a special occasion or a relaxed evening out. Reddit

Opt for a table at one of the restaurants with outdoor seating in the courtyard to soak in the atmosphere. The chapel also provides a serene backdrop for a quiet moment. As evening falls, the illuminated buildings create a magical setting, and the various bars offer a great way to end the night with a drink. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, CHIJMES is a dream location. The intricate Gothic architecture, the serene chapel, and the grand hall offer endless opportunities for stunning shots. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day, and the romantic illumination at night, provide diverse photographic possibilities. Instagram

Aim for the golden hour in the late afternoon for warm, soft light that enhances the textures of the building. Daytime visits allow for clear shots of the architectural details. Don't forget to capture the atmosphere of the courtyards and the interiors of the restaurants and chapel. Be mindful of other visitors and any event schedules. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of CHIJMES

CHIJMES, originally known as the Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus, was established in 1854 by French missionaries. It served as a convent and a school for over a century, playing a significant role in the education and welfare of girls in Singapore. The stunning Gothic-style chapel and hall are testaments to its rich past. The building was gazetted as a national monument in 1991, preserving its historical and architectural significance. Instagram

Today, CHIJMES has been transformed into a vibrant lifestyle and dining destination. While retaining its historical charm, it now houses a diverse array of restaurants, bars, and event spaces. This adaptive reuse project successfully blends heritage with modernity, offering visitors a unique experience that spans history, culture, and gastronomy. Reddit

Exploring CHIJMES is like stepping back in time while enjoying contemporary comforts. The careful restoration ensures that the architectural integrity is maintained, allowing visitors to appreciate the intricate details and the serene atmosphere that harks back to its origins. It’s a place where history is not just preserved but also celebrated and integrated into daily life. Instagram

Dining and Nightlife at CHIJMES

CHIJMES is a culinary hotspot, offering a wide spectrum of dining experiences. From authentic Italian at Duomo Ristorante to flavorful Indian dishes at Coriander Leaf, there's something to satisfy every palate. InstagramReddit Many restaurants feature al fresco dining options in the charming courtyards, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a lively gathering with friends. Reddit

As the sun sets, CHIJMES transforms into a buzzing nightlife destination. The bars and pubs come alive, offering a variety of drinks and a great atmosphere to unwind. Whether you're looking for a quiet cocktail or a place to enjoy live music, CHIJMES has options. The illuminated architecture adds to the enchanting ambiance, making it a popular spot for evening strolls and social gatherings. Reddit

When choosing a restaurant, consider the occasion. For a celebratory meal, upscale options like Coriander Leaf are excellent choices. Reddit For a more casual vibe, explore the various eateries offering diverse cuisines. The presence of air-conditioned 'bubbles' for dining also offers a unique and cozy experience, especially during cooler evenings. Reddit

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