7 Best Places to Shop in Civic District, Singapore

Following a renovation that was completed in 2019, this electronics and tech-lifestyle center now has funky retail, dining, and entertainment offerings like a food court where you can pay with cryptocurrency, a theater, a rock-climbing wall, and more. One of the most interesting things is the 5,000 square-foot rooftop urban farm that's part of the city's commitment against food insecurity, and whose produce is directly sourced by Noka, a modern-Japanese restaurant on Funan's 7th floor. 

Perhaps the best way to bring home a piece of Singapore is to buy from this local brand helmed by husband and wife Edwin and Mei Ling. They design and produce meaningful omiyage (contemporary gift ware) using Singapore’s rich culture as inspiration. Plates, cups, and bowls are emblazoned with uniquely local icons like the Merlion, the Singapore Flyer, and Jewel Changi’s Vortex (that jaw-dropping airport waterfall you've been hearing about). Their Supermama Porcelain line is made in collaboration with Kihara, a well-known Japanese porcelain label and their stockist now includes glassware, tea towels, and commemorative bone china. 

This shop in Peninsula Shopping Centre carries not just the latest cameras and accessories from Nikon, Canon, Pentax, and Mamiya, but also analogue models and serious shutterbug equipment like dry cabinets. You can even get camera issues diagnosed by the staff, have your cam cleaned, or sell a pre-loved gadget.

This complex, inside what was Singapore's first skyscraper when it was built in 1939, has eight floors of quirky stores and entertainment outlets, including an eight-screen cineplex and the funky Brunswick Pool & Billiards. Check out Leftfoot (#01–19/20) for an excellent selection of hard-to-find sneakers and VOL.TA Marque (#02–09) for sharp men's fashion. The complex is across the street from the Dhoby Ghaut MRT station; look for the building's original art deco facade.

Home to more than 250 shops and restaurants, Marina Square was once the largest shopping mall in Singapore, an honor that now belongs to VivoCity. Banks, convenience stores, a movie theater, a bowling alley, a large food court, coffee shops, and spas and salons are all here. Some nearby hotels and attractions, including Esplanade–Theatres on the Bay, Pan Pacific Singapore, and Suntec City, can be accessed directly from here via underground walkways.

Near Suntec City in Millenia Singapore, this upscale complex has a mix of audiovisual stores—including the sprawling flagship store of electronics retailer Harvey Norman—designer house-ware boutiques, quirky retail outlets, and a clutch of Japanese restaurants and contemporary cafes.

Get everything you need at this mega mall, which has more than 200 tenants within its walls, including Robinsons Department Store and Ode to Art, a contemporary art gallery. Both traveling to and spending time in the mall is a breeze—it is easily accessed from the City Hall and Esplanade train stations. It also offers services like the loan of portable chargers and umbrellas.