Top 7 Must-Have Singapore Souvenirs for Every Traveller

When you visit Singapore, you’ll find an abundance of unique and memorable souvenirs that encapsulate the rich culture, vibrant history, and modern flair of the city-state. Whether you’re shopping for family, friends, or yourself, there’s something for everyone in Singapore’s diverse range of keepsakes. Here are seven must-have Singapore souvenirs that are perfect to bring home and share a piece of the Lion City with your loved ones.

1. Merlion Memorabilia

No visit to Singapore is complete without something featuring the iconic Merlion. The Merlion, a mythical creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish, is the symbol of Singapore and a popular image on all sorts of souvenirs. From miniature statues to keychains, magnets, and even chocolates shaped like the Merlion, there’s no shortage of options. These items make for a great reminder of your time in Singapore and are a classic gift for those back home.

The best place to find Merlion souvenirs is in the many tourist shops scattered around the city, especially near Marina Bay, where the famous Merlion statue stands. The prices are generally affordable, making it easy to pick up several items for different people.

2. Kaya Jam

For a taste of Singapore that you can take home, look no further than kaya jam. This sweet, creamy spread made from coconut milk, sugar, and eggs, flavoured with pandan leaves, is a staple in many Singaporean homes. It’s traditionally served on toast, often with a slab of butter, and accompanied by a soft-boiled egg and coffee, making for a delicious and comforting breakfast.

Kaya jam is readily available in supermarkets, but you can also find artisanal versions in specialty stores, which might include unique twists on the traditional recipe, such as adding a hint of gula melaka (palm sugar) or using organic ingredients. Packaged neatly in jars, kaya jam makes for a delightful and authentic Singapore souvenir that you can share with your family and friends.

3. Bak Kwa

Bak kwa, or barbecued pork slices, is another popular edible souvenir from Singapore. These sweet and savoury treats are a favourite during the Chinese New Year but are enjoyed year-round by locals and tourists alike. The process of making bak kwa involves marinating the meat in a mixture of sugar, soy sauce, and spices, then slowly grilling it over charcoal until it reaches a perfect balance of flavour and texture.

You can find bak kwa at various speciality shops across the city, with some of the most famous brands being Bee Cheng Hiang and Lim Chee Guan. These shops often offer vacuum-packed versions, making it easy to take them home as a gift. While bak kwa is typically made from pork, some stores also offer chicken or beef options to cater to different dietary preferences.

4. Orchid Perfumes

Singapore’s national flower, the orchid, is a symbol of the country’s natural beauty and resilience. What better way to remember your trip than with a perfume infused with the delicate scent of this exquisite flower? Orchid perfumes are a unique and luxurious souvenir that captures the essence of Singapore’s botanical heritage.

One of the most famous places to buy orchid-based perfumes is at the Singapore Memories store, where you can find a variety of scents that pay homage to the different species of orchids found in the country. These perfumes are beautifully packaged and make for an elegant gift that will remind the recipient of the fragrant beauty of Singapore long after they’ve left.

5. Peranakan Crafts

The Peranakan culture, a blend of Chinese and Malay influences, is a significant part of Singapore’s heritage. This unique culture is reflected in the vibrant and intricate crafts created by the Peranakan people, making these items a truly special souvenir. From colourful beaded slippers (kasut manek) to porcelain ware, jewellery, and textiles, Peranakan crafts offer a glimpse into the artistic traditions of this community.

The best places to find Peranakan souvenirs are in areas such as Katong and Joo Chiat, where many Peranakan shops and museums are located. These handcrafted items often come with a higher price tag due to the skill and time required to create them, but they are worth the investment for those seeking an authentic and culturally rich memento of their trip.

6. Singapore Sling Mix

The Singapore Sling is perhaps one of the most famous cocktails in the world, and what better way to share a taste of Singapore than by bringing home a bottle of Singapore Sling mix? This fruity, gin-based cocktail was first created at the Raffles Hotel in the early 20th century and has since become a symbol of Singapore’s colonial past and vibrant nightlife.

You can find ready-made Singapore Sling mixes at various souvenir shops and duty-free stores at Changi Airport. Some places even offer DIY kits, allowing you to recreate the iconic drink at home. Pairing this with a story about enjoying the original cocktail at the Long Bar in Raffles Hotel adds a personal touch to this gift.

7. Singapore-themed Stationery

For something practical yet charming, Singapore-themed stationery is a great option. From notebooks and pens to postcards and bookmarks, these items are adorned with images of famous Singapore landmarks, local foods, and cultural symbols. They’re not only useful but also serve as a constant reminder of your time in the city.

Many bookstores and souvenir shops offer a wide range of stationery products, often beautifully designed and reasonably priced. Whether it’s a Merlion pen, a set of postcards featuring the skyline of Marina Bay Sands, or a notebook with colourful Peranakan tiles on the cover, these items are perfect for both kids and adults who appreciate thoughtful and functional gifts.

Conclusion

Singapore offers a plethora of unique and meaningful souvenirs that are perfect for sharing with others or keeping as a reminder of your visit. From the iconic Merlion to the fragrant orchid perfumes, each item reflects a piece of Singapore’s rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re looking for a taste of local flavours with kaya jam and bak kwa or something more lasting like Peranakan crafts and Singapore-themed stationery, you’ll find that these souvenirs beautifully capture the spirit of the Lion City.