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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great for coffee
Tiong Bahru Singapore
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great for coffee

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.
"Tiong Bahru offers a delightful escape with its unique charm, delicious food, and artistic vibe."
🚶♀️ 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Independent Boutiques & Cafes
Eng Hoon Street, Yong Siak Street
Discover charming independent shops, bookstores, and trendy coffee spots perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Getting Around Tiong Bahru
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ 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.
🍜 Hawker Food Heaven
Head to Tiong Bahru Market for affordable and delicious local eats like porridge and lor mee.
📸 Snap-Worthy Streets
The unique architecture is a dream for photographers. Bring your camera!
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.
☕️ Coffee Lover's Paradise
Tiong Bahru boasts some of the best coffee shops in Singapore. Try Forty Hands or Flock.
🍜 Hawker Food Heaven
Head to Tiong Bahru Market for affordable and delicious local eats like porridge and lor mee.
📸 Snap-Worthy Streets
The unique architecture is a dream for photographers. Bring your camera!
🧳 Easy Access by Public Transport
Take the MRT to Tiong Bahru station, or a short bus ride from Chinatown.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, Tiong Bahru is very walkable! The main streets and many hidden alleys are best explored on foot. Comfortable shoes are a must.
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.
Absolutely! Buses are a convenient option. For example, a short bus ride from Chinatown can bring you directly to Tiong Bahru.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
Yes, Tiong Bahru is an excellent destination for a day trip. You can easily spend several hours exploring its unique shops, cafes, and market.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
Tiong Bahru is a coffee haven! Popular spots include Forty Hands, Flock Cafe, and Plain Vanilla Bakery, known for their excellent brews and ambiance.
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.
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.
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!
📸 📸 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.
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.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, perfect for capturing the architecture. Late afternoons can also provide beautiful golden hour light.
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.
Its distinctive Art Deco architecture, colourful shophouses, charming cafes, and the lively atmosphere of the market all contribute to its photogenic appeal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
☕️ Coffee & Culture Enthusiasts
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.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Tiong Bahru's Architecture
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.
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.
A Culinary Journey Through Tiong Bahru
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.
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.
Navigating Tiong Bahru: Transport and Accessibility
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit