Things to Do in Kampong Glam, Singapore

Kampong Glam is Singapore's historic Arab Quarter, a vibrant cultural enclave that serves as the heart of Malay and Arab heritage in the city-state. This colorful neighborhood is anchored by the magnificent Sultan Mosque with its golden dome, surrounded by traditional shophouses that have been transformed into trendy boutiques, authentic eateries, and cultural attractions. The area seamlessly blends centuries-old traditions with contemporary urban culture, creating a unique atmosphere where the call to prayer mingles with the sounds of modern cafes and art galleries. The district's narrow streets are lined with beautifully preserved architecture, from ornate Islamic facades to Peranakan-style buildings painted in jewel tones. Kampong Glam offers visitors an authentic taste of Singapore's multicultural identity, with traditional carpet shops sitting alongside hip cafes, and family-run restaurants serving generations-old recipes next to contemporary art spaces. This compact neighborhood can easily be explored on foot, making it perfect for cultural immersion and discovering hidden gems around every corner.

Top Things to Do in Kampong Glam

Explore Sultan Mosque and Islamic Heritage

Visit Singapore's largest mosque, an architectural masterpiece with its distinctive golden dome and prayer hall that can accommodate 5,000 worshippers. The mosque, built in 1824, showcases stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture and offers guided tours that provide insights into Islamic culture and the local Muslim community. The surrounding streets feature traditional Islamic calligraphy shops, prayer item stores, and beautiful examples of Middle Eastern architecture.

Booking Tip: Entry to the mosque is free, but dress modestly with covered shoulders and long pants. Guided tours are available on weekdays from 10am-12pm and 2pm-4pm, except during prayer times. Robes are provided at the entrance if needed.

Shop Along Arab Street and Haji Lane

Discover unique treasures along the historic Arab Street, famous for its traditional carpet shops, textile stores, and authentic Middle Eastern goods. The adjacent Haji Lane is a narrow alley transformed into a hipster paradise with independent boutiques, vintage stores, and Instagram-worthy street art. These streets offer everything from handwoven Persian rugs and traditional perfumes to cutting-edge local fashion and quirky souvenirs.

Booking Tip: Most shops open around 10am and close by 9pm, with some taking a break during afternoon prayer times. Bargaining is acceptable in traditional shops but not in modern boutiques. Bring cash as smaller shops may not accept cards.

Experience Traditional Malay and Middle Eastern Cuisine

Indulge in authentic flavors at the neighborhood's renowned restaurants and cafes, from traditional Malay dishes like nasi padang and rendang to Middle Eastern specialties such as mandi rice and Turkish kebabs. The area is also famous for its traditional coffee shops serving kopi and local breakfast favorites. Many establishments are family-run businesses that have been serving the same recipes for decades.

Booking Tip: Most restaurants don't require reservations except on weekends. Expect to pay S$8-15 for local dishes and S$20-30 for Middle Eastern mains. Popular spots get crowded during lunch (12-2pm) and dinner (7-9pm) hours.

Visit the Malay Heritage Centre

Explore Singapore's Malay culture and history at this comprehensive museum housed in the former Istana Kampong Glam, the royal palace of the Malay sultans. The center features six galleries showcasing Malay traditions, the history of the neighborhood, and the broader Southeast Asian maritime culture. Interactive exhibits and artifacts provide deep insights into the Malay community's contributions to Singapore's development.

Booking Tip: Adult admission costs S$6, with discounts for students and seniors. The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-6pm. Allow 1.5-2 hours for a complete visit, and consider visiting in the morning when it's less crowded.

Discover Street Art and Contemporary Culture

Wander through the neighborhood's vibrant street art scene, particularly concentrated along Haji Lane and Baghdad Street, where colorful murals and graffiti create an outdoor gallery. The area has become a hub for local artists and creative spaces, with several galleries showcasing contemporary Southeast Asian art. The contrast between traditional architecture and modern artistic expression creates a unique urban landscape perfect for photography and cultural exploration.

Booking Tip: Street art viewing is free and best enjoyed during daylight hours for optimal photography. Several galleries have irregular hours, so visit between 11am-6pm for the best chance of finding them open. Guided street art tours are available for S$25-35 per person.

Getting There

Kampong Glam is easily accessible via Singapore's efficient MRT system, with Bugis Station (East West and Downtown Lines) being the closest, just a 5-minute walk from the heart of the district. Alternatively, Nicoll Highway Station (Circle Line) is about 8 minutes away on foot. Multiple bus routes including 7, 32, 51, 61, 63, 80, 145, and 197 serve the area with stops along Victoria Street and Arab Street. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab provide convenient door-to-door access, typically costing S$8-15 from the city center depending on traffic conditions.

Getting Around

Kampong Glam is perfectly suited for walking, as the entire historic district spans only about 4-5 blocks and most attractions are within a 10-minute walk of each other. The neighborhood's compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets make it ideal for leisurely exploration on foot. For longer distances or during hot weather, the area is well-connected by buses, and the nearby Bugis MRT interchange provides easy access to other parts of Singapore. Bicycle rentals are available from several shops along Arab Street for those who prefer cycling, and the flat terrain makes it comfortable for all fitness levels.

Where to Stay

Bugis and Arab Street area

Beach Road and Nicoll Highway vicinity

Rochor and Selegie Road district

Lavender Street neighborhood

Jalan Besar cultural quarter

Little India adjacent area

Food & Dining

Kampong Glam offers an exceptional culinary journey through Middle Eastern and Malay cuisines, with Arab Street serving as the main dining corridor lined with authentic restaurants and traditional coffee shops. The neighborhood is renowned for its Turkish and Lebanese restaurants serving fresh kebabs, hummus, and traditional meze platters, alongside established Malay eateries offering nasi padang, rendang, and satay. Traditional coffee shops (kopitiams) serve local breakfast favorites and strong kopi, while modern cafes along Haji Lane provide international options and Instagram-worthy brunches. Food courts and hawker-style stalls offer budget-friendly local dishes, and several 24-hour establishments cater to late-night diners, making it a food lover's paradise that represents Singapore's multicultural dining scene.

When to Visit

Kampong Glam can be visited year-round due to Singapore's consistent tropical climate, but the best experience is during the cooler months from December to February when humidity levels are slightly lower and walking around is more comfortable. The neighborhood comes alive in the early evening (5-8pm) when the heat subsides and the golden hour lighting enhances the colorful shophouses and street art. Avoid visiting during major Islamic holidays like Hari Raya when many shops and restaurants may be closed, though the festive decorations during Ramadan create a particularly magical atmosphere. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, making it easier to explore shops and take photos without large crowds.

Insider Tips

Visit during the late afternoon call to prayer (around 6pm) to experience the authentic spiritual atmosphere as the mosque's call echoes through the streets

Many traditional shops close during Friday prayers (12:30-2:30pm), so plan shopping accordingly or use this time to visit the Malay Heritage Centre

The best street art photo opportunities are in the morning when Haji Lane has fewer crowds and optimal natural lighting hits the colorful murals

Things to Do in Kampong Glam