Tiong Bahru, Singapore - gray concrete road in between buildings during daytime
1 / 10

Tiong Bahru Singapore

4.6
·491k reviews·Singapore, Singapore

A charming enclave of Art Deco architecture, independent boutiques, and a vibrant food scene. Discover Singapore's heritage and trendy side.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, great for coffee

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Tiong Bahru, Singapore - gray concrete road in between buildings during daytime

Tiong Bahru Singapore

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, great for coffee

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming enclave of Art Deco architecture, independent boutiques, and a vibrant food scene. Discover Singapore's heritage and trendy side.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Tiong Bahru offers a delightful escape with its unique charm, delicious food, and artistic vibe."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Wander and Explore

Don't stick to main streets! Get lost in the charming lanes to find hidden cafes and unique shops.

☕️ Coffee Lover's Paradise

Tiong Bahru boasts some of the best coffee shops in Singapore. Try Forty Hands or Flock.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tiong Bahru Market

Tiong Bahru Market

Eng Hoon Street

A bustling hawker center and wet market, offering authentic local dishes and fresh produce. A must-visit for foodies!

Art Deco Architecture

Art Deco Architecture

Throughout the neighbourhood

Admire the unique pre-war buildings with their distinctive curves and motifs. A photographer's delight!

Independent Boutiques & Cafes

Independent Boutiques & Cafes

Eng Hoon Street, Yong Siak Street

Discover charming independent shops, bookstores, and trendy coffee spots perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Tiong Bahru is a charming neighbourhood known for its art deco architecture, independent boutiques, and fantastic food scene. It's a great place to experience a more laid-back side of Singapore, away from the usual tourist crowds. Plan to wander and discover hidden gems.

Getting Around Tiong Bahru

While Tiong Bahru has its own MRT station, many visitors find it easiest to explore the core area on foot. Buses are also a convenient option for reaching nearby attractions like Chinatown. Consider comfortable shoes for your explorations!

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, great for coffee
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, explore shops
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Dinner at hawker centre
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Singapore Food Trip Guide 2025 featuring local gems and not-so-touristy food spots recommended by our local guide, so save this video for your next SG Foodtrip! 📍 Tiong Bahru Market 📍 PS. Cafe (One Fu...
@thechinitafoodie
62.3K likes • 13.8M views

🚶‍♀️ Wander and Explore

Don't stick to main streets! Get lost in the charming lanes to find hidden cafes and unique shops. TikTok

☕️ Coffee Lover's Paradise

Tiong Bahru boasts some of the best coffee shops in Singapore. Try Forty Hands or Flock. Reddit

Tutorial naik MRT dari Changi Airport ke Tiong Bahru Singapore, mudah & hemat! . Nah kalo pengen explore Tiong Bahru tanpa ribet mikirin transportasi, aku rekomendasiin kalian staynya di Hotel Nostalg...
ini_rini
226 likes • 8K views
🚶‍♂️Just a stone’s throw away from Havelock MRT and Tiong Bahru Market, you get access to good food and connectivity to central Singapore 🚇 Orchard is just 2 mrt stops away! ☕️ Cafe-hop in the Tion...
happyhomesprop
51 likes • 5.2K views

🍜 Hawker Food Heaven

Head to Tiong Bahru Market for affordable and delicious local eats like porridge and lor mee. TikTok

📸 Snap-Worthy Streets

The unique architecture is a dream for photographers. Bring your camera! Instagram

@agnes1017li fellow film photog in Tiong Bahru💜 #lomochromepurple #rolleiflex28f
shuffleplayfilm
43 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Wander and Explore

Don't stick to main streets! Get lost in the charming lanes to find hidden cafes and unique shops. TikTok

☕️ Coffee Lover's Paradise

Tiong Bahru boasts some of the best coffee shops in Singapore. Try Forty Hands or Flock. Reddit

🍜 Hawker Food Heaven

Head to Tiong Bahru Market for affordable and delicious local eats like porridge and lor mee. TikTok

📸 Snap-Worthy Streets

The unique architecture is a dream for photographers. Bring your camera! Instagram

🧳 Easy Access by Public Transport

Take the MRT to Tiong Bahru station, or a short bus ride from Chinatown. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Tiong Bahru is widely praised for its unique blend of charming Art Deco architecture, vibrant food scene, and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors love exploring its independent boutiques and cafes, and the Tiong Bahru Market is a consistent highlight for authentic local eats. Some find it can get crowded during peak times, and certain areas might feel a bit residential.

What People Like

Charming Art Deco architecture
Delicious hawker food
Trendy cafes and boutiques

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Some areas are residential

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way is to take the MRT. From Changi Airport station, take the East-West Line towards Joo Koon and alight at Tanah Merah. Transfer to the same line towards Pasir Ris and alight at City Hall. Then, transfer to the North-South Line towards Marina South Pier and alight at Raffles Place. Finally, transfer to the East-West Line towards Joo Koon and alight at Tiong Bahru. The journey takes about an hour. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service, which will be faster but more expensive. Instagram

Yes, Tiong Bahru is very walkable! The main streets and many hidden alleys are best explored on foot. Comfortable shoes are a must. TikTok

Walking is ideal for exploring the core neighbourhood. Buses are also readily available and can take you to nearby areas like Chinatown. The Tiong Bahru MRT station connects you to the wider Singapore network. Instagram

Absolutely! Buses are a convenient option. For example, a short bus ride from Chinatown can bring you directly to Tiong Bahru. Reddit

Yes, Tiong Bahru MRT station is on the East-West Line, providing excellent connectivity to many parts of Singapore, including the central business district and Orchard Road. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Tiong Bahru is a neighbourhood, not a ticketed attraction. You can wander freely through its streets, admire the architecture, and visit shops and cafes. Entry to Tiong Bahru Market's hawker centre is also free, though you'll pay for food. TikTok

The wet market typically operates from early morning until around noon, while the hawker centre is open from early morning until late evening, usually around 9 PM or 10 PM. Specific stall hours may vary. TikTok

There are no entrance fees for most shops and cafes. You'll only pay for any purchases you make, such as coffee, food, or merchandise. Instagram

Yes, Tiong Bahru is an excellent destination for a day trip. You can easily spend several hours exploring its unique shops, cafes, and market. Reddit

While not as common as in other parts of Singapore, you might find independent guides or walking tours focusing on Tiong Bahru's heritage and food scene. It's also enjoyable to explore independently. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You absolutely must try the local delights at Tiong Bahru Market, such as lor mee, porridge, and chicken rice. For coffee lovers, Forty Hands and Flock are highly recommended. Don't miss the bakeries for delicious pastries. TikTokReddit

Tiong Bahru is a coffee haven! Popular spots include Forty Hands, Flock Cafe, and Plain Vanilla Bakery, known for their excellent brews and ambiance. Reddit

Beyond the hawker centre, Tiong Bahru offers a range of dining options. Sakon Thai and Sin Hoi Sai offer Thai and Cantonese cuisine respectively. For a more casual bite, check out Privé. TikTok

While Tiong Bahru Market has many meat-centric dishes, you can often find vegetarian options like Yong Tau Hu or vegetable porridge. Many cafes also offer vegetarian-friendly choices. TikTok

The best way is to visit Tiong Bahru Market for a true hawker experience, and then explore the cafes and bakeries for coffee and pastries. Don't be afraid to try different stalls! TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The entire neighbourhood is a photographer's dream! Focus on the unique Art Deco architecture, the vibrant Tiong Bahru Market, and the charming street scenes. Yong Siak Street and Eng Hoon Street are particularly picturesque. Instagram

Any camera will work, but a wide-angle lens is great for capturing the architecture. Film photographers also love Tiong Bahru for its vintage feel. Instagram

Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, perfect for capturing the architecture. Late afternoons can also provide beautiful golden hour light. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of private property and ask for permission before photographing inside shops or private residences. Instagram

Its distinctive Art Deco architecture, colourful shophouses, charming cafes, and the lively atmosphere of the market all contribute to its photogenic appeal. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Tiong Bahru offers a relaxed and engaging experience for families. The Tiong Bahru Market is a great place for kids to experience a local wet market and try a variety of affordable hawker foods. Many of the cafes have a family-friendly atmosphere, and the open spaces in the neighbourhood allow for some freedom to roam. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds. TikTok

While there aren't specific playgrounds, the charm of exploring the unique architecture and browsing the independent shops can be an adventure in itself for older children. Pack comfortable shoes for everyone, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking. The neighbourhood's relatively calm pace makes it a less overwhelming option for families compared to more bustling tourist hubs. Instagram

☕️ Coffee & Culture Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate good coffee and a unique cultural experience, Tiong Bahru is a must-visit. The neighbourhood is dotted with some of Singapore's best independent coffee shops, offering expertly crafted brews and a cozy ambiance. Spend your mornings hopping between cafes like Forty Hands and Flock, enjoying artisanal coffee and delicious pastries. Reddit

Beyond the coffee scene, immerse yourself in the Art Deco architecture that defines Tiong Bahru. Take a leisurely stroll, admire the unique building designs, and perhaps visit some of the independent bookstores and boutiques that add to the neighbourhood's bohemian charm. It's a perfect blend of urban exploration and relaxed indulgence. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Tiong Bahru is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for an authentic Singaporean experience. The star attraction for affordability is the Tiong Bahru Market hawker centre, where you can enjoy delicious and filling meals for just a few Singapore dollars. TikTok

Exploring the neighbourhood itself is free, allowing you to admire the architecture and browse shops without spending a dime. While there are boutique hotels, budget-friendly options like Hotel 81 Tiong Bahru or Nostalgia Hotel Tiong Bahru are available nearby, offering a comfortable base without breaking the bank. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Tiong Bahru's Architecture

Tiong Bahru is renowned for its well-preserved Art Deco architecture, a style that flourished in the 1930s. These buildings, characterized by their rounded corners, streamlined forms, and decorative motifs, stand in stark contrast to Singapore's modern skyscrapers. Walking through the neighbourhood feels like stepping back in time, offering a unique visual experience. Many of these buildings have been conserved and repurposed into trendy cafes, boutiques, and residences, blending the old with the new. Instagram

Key architectural features to look out for include the distinctive streamline moderne elements, such as horizontal lines and curved facades. You'll also notice motifs inspired by ships and airplanes, reflecting the era's fascination with modernity and travel. The Tiong Bahru Estate, one of Singapore's oldest housing estates, is a prime example of this architectural heritage. Exploring streets like Yong Siak Street and Eng Hoon Street will immerse you in this unique urban landscape. Instagram

For photography enthusiasts, Tiong Bahru offers endless opportunities. The interplay of light and shadow on the curved walls, the vibrant colours of the shophouses, and the juxtaposition of old and new create compelling compositions. It's a place where you can truly appreciate Singapore's architectural history and its ability to integrate heritage into contemporary urban living. Instagram

A Culinary Journey Through Tiong Bahru

Tiong Bahru is a food lover's paradise, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences from traditional hawker fare to artisanal coffee and international cuisine. The Tiong Bahru Market is a central hub, housing a bustling wet market on the ground floor and a popular hawker centre upstairs. Here, you can sample iconic Singaporean dishes like lor mee, chicken rice, and porridge at incredibly affordable prices. It's a sensory overload in the best way possible, with the aromas of various dishes filling the air. TikTok

Beyond the market, Tiong Bahru has become a hotspot for independent coffee shops and bakeries. Cafes like Forty Hands and Flock are renowned for their expertly brewed coffee and relaxed ambiance, making them perfect spots for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon break. Bakeries such as Plain Vanilla offer delectable pastries and cakes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. These establishments contribute to the neighbourhood's trendy and laid-back vibe. Reddit

For those seeking more formal dining, Tiong Bahru also hosts a selection of restaurants. You can find authentic Thai cuisine at Sakon Thai or enjoy Cantonese dishes at Sin Hoi Sai. The variety ensures that there's something to satisfy every palate, making Tiong Bahru a destination that truly caters to all food enthusiasts. TikTok

Navigating Tiong Bahru: Transport and Accessibility

Getting to and around Tiong Bahru is relatively straightforward, making it an accessible neighbourhood for most visitors. The Tiong Bahru MRT station (East-West Line) is conveniently located and serves as a primary entry point for many. From the station, it's a short walk to the heart of the neighbourhood. Instagram+1

For those arriving from Changi Airport, taking the MRT is a cost-effective and efficient option. The journey involves a few transfers but is well-signposted. Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services offer a more direct but pricier route. Once in Tiong Bahru, walking is by far the most enjoyable and practical way to explore its charming streets and discover its hidden gems. Instagram

Buses are also a viable option for getting to Tiong Bahru or for travelling to adjacent areas. For instance, a short bus ride can easily connect you to Chinatown. The neighbourhood's compact size and pedestrian-friendly layout make it ideal for leisurely strolls, allowing you to soak in the unique atmosphere and architectural beauty at your own pace. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2