10 Free Must-Visit Places In Singapore That Will Take You Back In Time

There’s nothing Malaysians love to hear more than the word “free” and believe it or not, a visit to Singapore doesn’t have to break the bank! If you haven’t really explored Singapore apart from the typical tourist spots, you might enjoy these hidden gems.Here’s a list of interesting places to get yourself a dose of culture and history while keeping to your budget. As a cherry on top, there’s also a special discount for Singapore activities at the end of the article!

With history dated back to the 1920s, this row of pre-war shophouses is a well-known landmark in Joo Chiat courtesy to its colourful, pastel facade. If you look closer, you will also notice flowers patterns, tiles and intricate detailing on its exterior. These photogenic heritage houses are worth a visit and will certainly add some colour to your Singapore visit!

Address: Koon Seng Road (in between the junction of Pennefather Road and Joo Chiat Road and the junction of Lorong J Telok Kurau and Still Road)

You might be familiar with the conventional HDB flats in Singapore but you will find a number of unique low-rise buildings in Tiong Bahru! Designed in a horseshoe shape, complete with spiral staircases and courtyards, the architecture is a mix of local and British influences. While they have gone through several facelifts since first built in 1930s, these buildings still retain that old world charm!

Location: Photos above were taken in Lim Liak St.

Wander to the quieter side of Joo Chiat and you’ll find the Kuan Im Tng Temple amidst private residences. Founded in 1919, this temple has a gathered quite a large following over the years and you can find a number of devotees paying their respects in the temple at any day. If you’re around, it certainly doesn’t hurt to stop by and pray for a little good luck!

Address: 62 Tembeling Rd, Singapore 423586

Opening hours: Daily, 5am to 6.15pm

A landmark in Tiong Bahru, the Tiong Bahru Market is still home to many vendors who have been perfecting their recipe over the decades. Keeping the tradition alive and passing their family recipes and business from generation to generation, the food and the people in this market are irreplaceable. You can always count on Tiong Bahru Market to be filled with boisterous banter between loyal patrons and stall vendors, as well as bustling with activity, selling fresh goods and mouth-watering local delicacies.

Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, 168898

Opening Hours: Daily, 9am to 8pm (hours may vary from vendor to vendor)

A boutique shop and museum gallery in one, Rumah Kim Choo is the place to be if you’re interested in delving into the Peranakan culture. Browse around the shop and find gems like handmade beaded shoes, intricate tableware and more. Wander to the second level to take a peek into the lives and homes of a typical Peranakan house.

Address: 109/, 111 East Coast Rd, Singapore 428801

Opening hours: Daily, 9am to 9pm

After a visit to Rumah Kim Choo, head next door to Kim Choo Kueh Chang for a literal taste of history! Named after Madam Lee Kim Choo, a first generation Peranakan, the store is famous for her famous Nyonya Chang (glutinous rice dumplings with meat filling). The shop also sells a selection of Nyonya kuehs (bite-sized pastries or snacks) and traditional confectionery.

Address: 111 East Coast Road, Singapore 428801

Opening hours: Daily, 9am to 9pm

This dual concept traditional coffee shop and hidden bar is a unique spot you should definitely visit. At first glance, Hua Bee Coffee Shop is just an ordinary kopitiam that serves Mee Pok (flat noodle dish) and old-school Kopi Gu You (coffee with butter). The secret Bincho bar, however, is hidden at the back of the coffee shop serving a selection of yakitori dishes, cocktails, and more.

Address: #01-19, 78 Moh Guan Terrace, 162078

Opening Hours:

Hua Bee Coffee

Tuesdays to Sunday, 7.30am to 2.30pm | Monday, closed

Bincho

Tuesday to Sunday, 12pm to 3pm, 6pm to 12am | Monday, closed

 

Home (left) | Pasar & the Fortune Teller (right)

Take a trip down memory lane with these murals located around Tiong Bahru! Located in several locations around the area, hunting for these wall art is a budget-friendly and interesting way to take a peek into life in Singapore 40 years ago. Each mural also comes with a story and poem which enriches the overall experience even more.

Address:

Home – Blk 74 Tiong Poh Road | Pasar & the Fortune Teller – Blk 73 Eng Watt Street

A significant religious institution especially for the Hindu community in Singapore, the history of the Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple dates all the way back to the late 1800s! It’s certainly hard to miss it with its imposing architecture and design. Despite having gone several reconstructions over the last century, the Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple stands tall and proud today.

Address: 19 Ceylon Road, Singapore 429613

Opening Hours: Daily, 6am to 12pm, 6.30pm to 9pm

Take a step into Singapore in the 90s when you visit The Tiong Bahru Club Singapura. This heritage-style bistro that is a treat for your eyes and your taste buds, decorated with vintage marbled tables, quirky bar stools and other quaint decor items. Paying tribute to local favourites, you can also find a variety of Chinese, Malay and Indian dishes.

Address: 57 Eng Hoon Street, #01-08 Block 57, 160057

Opening Hours: Daily, 9am to 11pm