Kampong Glam, Singapore - Masjid sultan area, Singapore
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Kampong Glam Singapore

4.6
·491k reviews·Singapore, Singapore

Singapore's historic Malay-Arab quarter, a vibrant district brimming with colorful street art, unique boutiques, and rich cultural heritage.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Afternoon & Evenings

Cooler temps, vibrant atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Kampong Glam, Singapore - Masjid sultan area, Singapore

Kampong Glam Singapore

Best Time

Late Afternoon & Evenings

Cooler temps, vibrant atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Singapore's historic Malay-Arab quarter, a vibrant district brimming with colorful street art, unique boutiques, and rich cultural heritage.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A must-visit for its vibrant street art, unique shops, and rich cultural heritage."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Street Art

Haji Lane is a canvas! Wander and find your favorite murals for amazing photos. :camerawithflash:

🛍️ Shop Unique Finds

Explore independent boutiques on Haji Lane and traditional shops on Arab Street for one-of-a-kind souvenirs. :shopping_bags:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sultan Mosque

Sultan Mosque

Muscat Street

An iconic landmark with a majestic golden dome, offering a glimpse into Islamic heritage and stunning architecture.

Haji Lane

Haji Lane

Off Arab Street

A narrow lane bursting with colorful street art, independent boutiques, quirky cafes, and a lively, bohemian vibe.

Arab Street

Arab Street

Adjacent to Haji Lane

Discover traditional textiles, carpets, perfumes, and handicrafts. A hub for unique souvenirs and cultural immersion.

Malay Heritage Centre

Malay Heritage Centre

11 Kandahar Street

Delve into the history and culture of the Malay community in Singapore through engaging exhibits and artifacts.

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Vibrant Culture

Kampong Glam, Singapore's historic Malay-Arab quarter, is a feast for the senses. Explore its rich heritage, vibrant street art, and unique boutiques. Plan your visit to soak in the cultural tapestry and discover hidden gems.

Best Time to Explore

To avoid the midday heat and crowds, consider visiting Kampong Glam in the late afternoon or evening. This allows you to enjoy the cooler temperatures, vibrant nightlife, and illuminated streets. Check for special events like Ramadhan bazaars for a unique experience.

Best Times

When
Late Afternoon & Evenings
Why
Cooler temps, vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Bustling markets & lively vibe
Crowd
High
When
During Ramadhan
Why
Unique bazaars & festive spirit
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Di balik gedung-gedung tinggi Singapura, masih ada satu kampung tradisional yang bertahan sejak 1956. Namanya Kampong Lorong Buangkok—kampung terakhir yang masih berdiri, lengkap dengan rumah kayu dan...
@hirzq
20.2K likes • 394.5K views

📸 Capture the Street Art

Haji Lane is a canvas! Wander and find your favorite murals for amazing photos. :camerawithflash: Instagram+1

🛍️ Shop Unique Finds

Explore independent boutiques on Haji Lane and traditional shops on Arab Street for one-of-a-kind souvenirs. :shopping_bags: TikTok

Visiting Singapore? Make shopping an adventure by discovering homegrown brands and one-of-a-kind finds you won’t find anywhere else! 🛍️✨ Got to check out ION Orchard, Haji Lane, Kampong Gelam, Chinat...
@welpadilla
17.4K likes • 15.2M views
POV: Kampong Glam 📍8 minutes walk distance from Bugis MRT station
(Downtown Line&East West Line) As one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, Singapore has been a platform for several ethnic...
ronmkim
54 likes • 2.7K views

🕌 Respectful Visits

Dress modestly when visiting Sultan Mosque. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :pray: Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

The best way to discover Kampong Glam's charm is by walking. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe: Instagram

Haji Lane is a vibrant street in Singapore’s Kampong Glam neighborhood, known for its independent shops, cafes, street art, and lively atmosphere.

📍: Haji Lane, Singapore
🚇: Bugis MRT Station (Exit B...
vins_bearface
1.2K likes • 31.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Street Art

Haji Lane is a canvas! Wander and find your favorite murals for amazing photos. :camerawithflash: Instagram+1

🛍️ Shop Unique Finds

Explore independent boutiques on Haji Lane and traditional shops on Arab Street for one-of-a-kind souvenirs. :shopping_bags: TikTok

🕌 Respectful Visits

Dress modestly when visiting Sultan Mosque. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :pray: Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

The best way to discover Kampong Glam's charm is by walking. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe: Instagram

🌙 Night Bazaar Buzz

If visiting during Ramadhan, the bazaar stays open late, offering a lively atmosphere and food. :sparkler: Reddit

☕ Cafe Hopping

Kampong Glam has many charming cafes. Try local delights or enjoy a coffee break. :coffee: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Kampong Glam is celebrated for its vibrant cultural tapestry, stunning street art, and unique shopping experiences. Visitors love the lively atmosphere of Haji Lane and the historical significance of Sultan Mosque. However, some find the food prices along Arab Street to be on the higher side.

What People Like

Vibrant street art
Cultural heritage
Unique shopping

What People Dislike

Overpriced food

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way to reach Kampong Glam from Changi Airport is by taking the MRT. Board the East West Line towards Joo Koon and alight at Bugis MRT station. From Bugis, Kampong Glam is just an 8-minute walk away. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. Instagram

The nearest MRT station to Kampong Glam is Bugis MRT station, which serves both the Downtown Line and the East West Line. From Exit B, it's a short walk to the heart of the district. Instagram+1

Yes, Kampong Glam is well-served by buses. Several bus routes stop near the area, making it easily accessible from different parts of Singapore. You can check bus routes and schedules via public transport apps. TikTok

Driving to Kampong Glam is possible, but parking can be challenging and expensive, especially on weekends. It's generally recommended to use public transport to avoid parking hassles. Reddit

Absolutely! Kampong Glam is best explored on foot. The streets are relatively compact, allowing you to easily wander between attractions like Sultan Mosque, Haji Lane, and Arab Street. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Kampong Glam itself is a public district and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely explore its streets, admire the architecture, and enjoy the atmosphere. Instagram

Sultan Mosque is generally open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM for visitors. However, it is a functioning place of worship, so visiting hours may vary. Modest dress is required. Instagram

Haji Lane and Arab Street are public streets, so there are no entrance fees. You can freely browse the shops and admire the street art. Instagram

The Malay Heritage Centre is typically open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, with the last entry at 5:30 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Yes, exploring the street art on Haji Lane, visiting Sultan Mosque (exterior and grounds), and browsing the shops on Arab Street are all free activities. Some free walking tours might also be available. Instagram

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Kampong Glam offers a diverse shopping experience. Arab Street is known for textiles, carpets, and perfumes, while Haji Lane features independent boutiques selling fashion, art, and unique gifts. TikTokInstagram

Along Arab Street, you'll find numerous Middle Eastern and Turkish restaurants. While some are considered tourist traps, Beirut Grill is a long-standing option, and Alaturka is recommended for its moussaka. Reddit

While Kampong Glam has many cafes and restaurants, it doesn't have a large, dedicated hawker centre within the immediate district. However, Bugis Street nearby offers a wide array of affordable food options. TikTok

You can try traditional Malay dishes like Nasi Lemak at local cafes,Instagram or explore Middle Eastern specialties such as kebabs, hummus, and baklava from the restaurants along Arab Street. Reddit

Yes, Kampong Glam is dotted with charming cafes, especially along Haji Lane and its surrounding streets. They offer a great spot to relax, people-watch, and enjoy a coffee or local snacks. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography & Art

Haji Lane is the epicenter of street art in Kampong Glam, with vibrant murals adorning almost every wall. The surrounding alleys and side streets also hide some artistic gems. Instagram+1

Besides the street art on Haji Lane, the Sultan Mosque with its golden dome is a stunning photo opportunity. The colorful shophouses along Arab Street and the intricate details of the architecture are also highly photogenic. Instagram+1

While Kampong Glam is known for its street art, you can also find small independent galleries and art studios showcasing local artists' work, particularly around Haji Lane. TikTok

The golden hours, just after sunrise or before sunset, offer beautiful lighting for photography. However, the vibrant colors of Haji Lane are captivating at any time of day. Instagram

Photography inside Sultan Mosque is generally not permitted. Visitors are welcome to admire the interior respectfully, but it's best to refrain from taking photos to respect the sacred space. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kampong Glam offers a visually stimulating and culturally rich experience for families. The vibrant street art on Haji Lane is a hit with kids, providing plenty of colorful backdrops for photos. Instagram+1 A visit to the Malay Heritage Centre can be educational and engaging, offering a glimpse into Singapore's history. While exploring, keep an eye out for unique shops selling toys and souvenirs. Remember to stay hydrated and take breaks at one of the many cafes. Instagram

🛍️ Budget Travelers

Kampong Glam can be explored on a budget by focusing on its free attractions. Admire the street art on Haji Lane, marvel at the Sultan Mosque from the outside, and enjoy the atmosphere of Arab Street without spending a dime. Instagram For affordable eats, venture to the nearby Bugis Street Market, which offers a wide variety of local food at budget-friendly prices. TikTok Look for cafes offering set meals or happy hour deals to save on dining. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Kampong Glam is a treasure trove. Haji Lane is an absolute must-visit for its ever-changing street art murals, offering endless creative possibilities. Instagram+1 The Sultan Mosque provides a majestic architectural subject, especially during the golden hours. Don't forget to capture the intricate details of the shophouses along Arab Street and the vibrant colors of the textiles. Instagram Visiting during the late afternoon or early evening can offer softer light and a more atmospheric feel. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Rich History of Kampong Glam

Kampong Glam, meaning 'Glamour Village' in Malay, is one of Singapore's oldest urban settlements and a designated heritage district. Historically, it was the seat of the Malay royalty and a vibrant hub for the Arab and Bugis communities. The area's transformation from a royal enclave to a bustling commercial and cultural center is a testament to Singapore's multicultural fabric. The Malay Heritage Centre stands as a proud reminder of this rich past, offering insights into the traditions, customs, and contributions of the Malay community. Reddit

Walking through Kampong Glam today, you can still feel echoes of its history. The Sultan Mosque, with its impressive golden dome, remains a spiritual anchor for the Muslim community and a significant landmark. The narrow streets, lined with traditional shophouses, tell stories of trade, migration, and community life that have shaped this unique district over decades. Understanding this heritage enriches the experience of exploring its modern-day attractions. Instagram

Exploring Haji Lane and Arab Street: A Shopper's Paradise

Haji Lane and Arab Street are the pulsating heart of Kampong Glam's modern appeal, offering a stark contrast to its historical roots. Haji Lane is renowned for its eclectic mix of independent boutiques, vintage stores, and vibrant street art. It's a place where creativity thrives, with artists transforming blank walls into colorful masterpieces, making it a photographer's dream. Instagram+1 You can find unique fashion pieces, handmade crafts, and quirky souvenirs that you won't find anywhere else in Singapore. TikTok

Adjacent to Haji Lane, Arab Street offers a more traditional shopping experience. This bustling thoroughfare is famous for its textiles, including beautiful silks and batiks, intricate carpets, traditional perfumes (attar), and artisanal crafts. It's the perfect place to hunt for unique gifts or simply soak in the atmosphere of a vibrant marketplace. Instagram While some restaurants along Arab Street can be pricey, exploring the diverse offerings from clothing to home decor provides a truly immersive shopping adventure. Reddit

Culinary Delights of Kampong Glam

Kampong Glam is a culinary melting pot, offering a delightful array of flavors that reflect its multicultural heritage. From traditional Malay home-cooked meals to authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, there's something to satisfy every palate. Kampong Glam Cafe is noted for its hearty Malay dishes, making it a popular spot for breakfast and lunch. Instagram The aroma of spices and local delicacies fills the air, inviting you to indulge in a gastronomic journey.

Along Arab Street, you'll find a concentration of Middle Eastern and Turkish restaurants. While navigating these can sometimes feel like a tourist trap, establishments like Beirut Grill and Alaturka have garnered positive reviews for their authentic flavors and traditional dishes. Reddit Don't miss the chance to try classic Middle Eastern fare like moussaka, kebabs, and a variety of mezze. For those seeking more budget-friendly options, the nearby Bugis Street offers a wide selection of local hawker fare. TikTok

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