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Tanjong Pagar doesn’t shout. It hums. Between the bright and shiny office towers and the run down shophouses, this neighborhood unfolds slowly. It’s not topping the lists of places to go, and it’s not yelling and begging for your attention, but those who care enough to show up anyway will be rewarded.
At first glance, Tanjong Pagar looks like business-as-usual: finance bros, lunchtime queues, the occasional delivery robot (yes, really lol). But give it a few hours—and a few side streets—and it starts to open up.
We found ourselves in Tanjong Pagar on a bit of a whim. We wanted to eat at Maxwell Food Centre, and then realized we had more time than we realized to walk around. I know Tanjong Pagar was something special because I was willing to wander aimlessly in Singapore’s heat to see as much of it as possible.
As we wandered, we found antique shops stacked like treasure troves, well curated little boutiques, third wave coffee, skybridges with million-dollar views, Korean BBQ to dream about, and enough indie bookshops to lose an afternoon (or three).
This guide isn’t a checklist (my guides never are). Think of it as a curated suggestion. A mix of places to explore, eat, read, shop, and sit still in. Take what you need, skip what you don’t – just be sure to enjoy it!
- Things to Do in Tanjong Pagar
- Start With No Plan and See What You Find
- See the Grandeur of Tanjong Pagar Railway Station
- Feel Tiny Next to Singapore’s Tallest Skyscraper
- Visit Singapore’s Coolest Public Housing & Catch a Stellar View
- Catch Contemporary Works at SAM’s Offbeat Venue
- Unwind in Hidden Green Spaces and Urban Parks
- Dig for Treasures in Boutiques and Vintage Spots
- Get Lost in Tanjong Pagar’s Best Bookstores
- Experience the Flavor of Little Korea
- Eat Like a Local at Maxwell and Amoy Food Centres
- Where to eat and drink in Tanjong Pagar
- Where to stay in Tanjong Pagar
Wanna visit Tanjong Pagar like a local?
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Things to do:
Can’t-miss experience:
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10 Ways to Get Off the Beaten Path in Tanjong Pagar
Real Talk:
Singapore – while less affected than some of its Southeast Asian neighbors – is not immune to overtourism, gentrification, and environmental damage. So please: don’t be an asshole when you travel here (or anywhere).
If you’ve made it to my blog, I’d like to think you too care about preserving the integrity of the places you visit – but I’ve seen enough disrespectful behavior from Western tourists to know it’s worth saying out loud:
If you’re going to make locals’ lives harder, just stay home.
1. Start With No Plan and See What You Find
Tanjong Pagar, like Tiong Bahru, is a neighborhood that rewards curiosity. Start with no plan… just pick a street and walk.
Duxton Hill is where you’ll find more iconic pastel shophouses, and Everton Road offers quiet charm and the occasional surprise mural. Even when you’re just strolling with no shops in sight, there’s some kind of magic in the air.
You’ll pass Chinese medicine halls with faded signage, boutiques that seem to exist purely for the aesthetic, bookstores to get lost in and cocktail bars hidden behind unmarked doors. Trust your instincts, and don’t forget to stop whenever your heart desires.
Uncover the Heart of Tanjong Pagar Through Tea & Storytelling
What looks like a quiet shophouse from the outside turns out to be one of the most memorable cultural experiences in Singapore. This intimate tea session blends guided storytelling, wellness rituals, and a deep dive into local heritage—offering a chance to connect with Tanjong Pagar in a way most travelers miss.
🫖 Book the experience here on Klook! 🫖
2. See the Grandeur of Tanjong Pagar Railway Station
You won’t find crowds or coffee carts here—just a grand old building sitting quietly at the edge of the neighborhood. The Tanjong Pagar Railway Station, built in 1932, is one of those rare places that feels both monumental and strangely peaceful. Even from the outside, the Art Deco design is worth taking a look at.
Though you can’t go inside right now, it’s worth checking out. The station’s stately arches and faded green tiles hint at a golden age of rail travel, when the KTM line connected Singapore to Malaysia and train travel felt luxurious.
FYI: The station is currently undergoing restoration and is set to reopen by 2026 as part of the new Cantonment MRT. Apparently the plan is for it to become a public space with heritage exhibits—so it won’t be just a relic, but something living again (and I’ll be first in line on my next trip).
3. Feel Tiny Next to Singapore’s Tallest Skyscraper
It’s not uncommon in Singapore for your neck to be at a semi-permanent craned position to get a better look at all the iconic skyscrapers, and this is certainly true in Tanjong Pagar. The neighborhood is home to Guoco Tower, Singapore’s tallest building, which rises a terrifying 290 metres into the sky. It’s sleek, it’s shiny, and it’s basically the overachiever of the CBD skyline.
But Guoco Tower isn’t just a pretty (and very tall) face. It houses everything from swanky offices to a luxury hotel, restaurants, and a landscaped urban park at its base. Even if you don’t step inside, standing at its base and looking up is a fun reminder of just how vertical this city can feel, and it’s certainly trippy to look at it in comparison to the heritage buildings nearby.
Planning Cheat Sheet: Every Link You Need in One Place
P.S. When you book using my links, you help support Rachel IRL at no extra cost to you. It’s a win-win!
4. Visit Singapore’s Coolest Public Housing & Catch a Stellar View
From street level, Pinnacle@Duxton is already futurist and eye-catching, but once I learned that it’s public housing I literally couldn’t look away. But wait, there’s more: You can go up.
For the price of a kopi (okay, $6, maybe two kopis), non-residents can access the skybridge on the 50th-floor and get a 360° view that feels almost like you’re breaking a rule or something. The skyline stretches out in every direction, container ships line up like toys in the harbor, and below you like ants the people of Singapore go about their lives.
Know Before You Go
You’ll need an EZ-Link Card or a Singapore Tourist Pass to visit, which you’ll have to register downstairs. A lot of effort, but I think it’s worth it and will 100% be visiting next time.
Oh, also worth mentioning that only 150 members of the public are allowed to visit per day, and once 150 people have gone up… it’s closed. So if this is a priority, I recommend making it a morning activity! They open from 9am.
5. Catch Contemporary Works at SAM’s Offbeat Venue
The Singapore Art Museum (SAM) is going through a bit of a glow-up these days. While its original Bras Basah building is under renovation, it’s set up shop in an industrial warehouse at Tanjong Pagar Distripark—and honestly, it suits the museum’s vibe!
The exhibitions here focus on bold, thought-provoking contemporary art, featuring everything from massive multimedia installations to interactive pieces that make you stop and think (or just stand there wondering if you get what’s happening at all).
PS: I’ve put together a full guide to the best museums in Singapore—from bold contemporary spaces to hidden gems worth lingering in.
25 Best Singapore Museums: Art, History & Hidden Gems That Will Make You Appreciate the Lion City in a New Way
25 Best Singapore Museums: Art, History & Hidden Gems That Will Make You Appreciate the Lion City in a New Way
6. Unwind in Hidden Green Spaces and Urban Parks
Tanjong Pagar may be located fairly central, but it’s not all high rises and shopping streets, you just have to know where to look. Right behind Guoco Tower is a surprisingly serene urban park—think water features, shaded benches, and the kind of greenery that makes you forget you’re in the middle of the CBD. Office workers eat lunch here. So do pigeons. It’s a vibe.
Then there’s Duxton Plain Park, a narrow, shaded stretch that feels more like a secret garden than a public path. Lined with rain trees and backed by low-rise apartments, it’s the kind of place where you’ll spot someone meditating, another reading, and someone else doing absolutely nothing—and all of it feels right.
Wander just a bit further and you’ll hit my personal favorite park in Tanjong Pagar, the Rail Corridor, a reclaimed train track turned walking trail that stretches all the way north. It’s wild, lush, and feels like you’ve hacked the city. Perfect for a morning walk, or a low-effort, high-reward escape when the skyline starts to feel a bit much.
7. Dig for Treasures in Boutiques and Vintage Spots
As you may know, a hill I am prepared to die on is that shopping and exploring local boutiques and vintage stores and whatnot is one of the last true frontiers of authentic exploration.
It’s the best way to chat to locals, get a feel for local vibes and aesthetics, my preferred way to find souvenirs and most importantly it’s a surefire way to get your money directly into the pockets of local people instead of massive corporations.
For all my top shopping picks in Singapore you should check out my shopping post, or look at my downloadable Google Maps (coming soon). For now, let’s go over the highlights:
8. Get Lost in Tanjong Pagar’s Best Bookstores
Tanjong Pagar appears to be the literary center of Singapore, at least if you go by the amount of bookshops in such a small area. These aren’t megastores with blaring playlists and scented candles (no shade to those, I love a good Barnes & Noble as much as the next girl), but rather cute little independent shops. I love to read up on a destination before, during, and after traveling to it, so visiting local bookstores is always a must for me. Plus, it’s always a great way to get to chatting with locals if you want recommendations.
9. Experience the Flavor of Little Korea
One of the best things about Tanjong Pagar is the fact that it moonlights as Singapore’s very own Little Korea. Just wander down Tanjong Pagar Road and you’ll be hit with the unmistakable scent of sizzling meat and gochujang in the air. This stretch is stacked with Korean BBQ joints, beauty shops, and dessert cafés that stay buzzing late into the night. Whether you’re looking for an all-you-can-grill experience at Super Star K, a late-night fix of bingsu, or a K-beauty restock, this mini enclave delivers.
It’s rowdy, delicious, and wildly popular—especially on weekends—so either come early or prepare to queue. And if you leave without smelling faintly of BBQ… did you even go?
10. Eat Like a Local at Maxwell and Amoy Food Centres
Tanjong Pagar might be dotted with sleek brunch spots and rooftop bars, but the real magic is in the hawker centres. Two of Singapore’s best—Maxwell Food Centre and Amoy Street Food Centre—are right here, feeding everyone from office workers to old uncles to curious tourists.
Maxwell is the better known of the two, thanks to its long-standing heavyweights like Tian Tian Chicken Rice (yes, the one with the Anthony Bourdain blessing). But there’s so much more if you wander the rows—fish soup, peanut pancakes, fresh sugarcane juice, and one of the best popiahs in town. It’s open-air, lively, and usually a little chaotic, although we got lucky and happened to catch it during a late afternoon lull. I wish we’d sampled more but I can definitely recommend the chicken rice.
Amoy, meanwhile, is the city’s best-kept weekday lunch secret. It’s where the CBD crowd queues for Michelin Bib Gourmand stalls tucked next to under-the-radar gems. The variety is wild: handmade noodles, nasi lemak, Hokkien mee, even solid vegetarian options. Come hungry, come early, and bring cash.
PSST: Curious about Singapore’s hawker culture?
If you’re as obsessed with food halls as I am, don’t miss my full guide to Singapore’s best hawker centres. I’ll tell you what to eat, where to go, and how to do it right.
Your Ultimate Guide to 8 of Singapore’s Best Hawker Centres
Your Ultimate Guide to 8 of Singapore’s Best Hawker Centres
Where to Eat and Drink in Tanjong Pagar
One of my absolute favorite things about Tanjong Pagar is just how much awesome food is packed into this area — and it’s not only trendy restaurants… there are also legit hawker stalls and cozy little bars you’ll wish you had back home. You barely have to wander more than a block to find something worth sitting down for.
Looking for more Tanjong Pagar food spots?
Grab my downloadable Google Map with a full list of recommended restaurants, cafes, and hawkers to help you eat your way through the neighborhood.
Where to Stay in Tanjong Pagar
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Singapore that balances heritage charm with city energy, Tanjong Pagar is a great pick. I only spent a short time in Singapore, but this area stood out to me as one of the most attractive in the city — it’s walkable, well-connected by MRT, and full of stylish boutique hotels tucked into beautifully restored shophouses. You’re also just minutes from Chinatown and some of the city’s best food and nightlife.
✨ For more handpicked hotel ideas across the city, check out my full guide to great hotels in Singapore.
$ | Tanjong Pagar | 4 Stars
Housed in a beautifully restored row of heritage shophouses, KēSa House is where old-world charm meets contemporary comfort. This boutique stay preserves its architectural soul—think elegant archways, shuttered windows, and a touch of colonial nostalgia—while offering sleek, modern rooms designed for efficiency. Guests love the communal kitchen, free snacks, and unbeatable Chinatown location, putting you steps from buzzing cafés and MRT access. Just a heads-up: soundproofing isn’t perfect, so light sleepers may want to plan accordingly.
CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY FOR YOUR DATES
Photo: Booking.com
$$ | Tanjong Pagar | 5 Stars
If you love boutique hotels with personality, Duxton Reserve delivers with rich heritage, striking interiors, and warm hospitality. Each room is uniquely designed – some even featuring loft-style layouts with spiral staircases – and stocked with high-end Diptyque amenities. Guests rave about the exceptional service, especially from Jamil, the ever-helpful bellman. The location is unbeatable, surrounded by trendy bars, top dining spots, and Chinatown’s cultural gems. While rooms do seem to lean on the cozy side, you’ll be out exploring anyway! The thoughtful design, plush bedding, and impeccable atmosphere win out to make this a top pick for a stylish, one-of-a-kind stay in Singapore.
CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY FOR YOUR DATES
Photo: Booking.com
$$ | Tanjong Pagar | 5 Stars
Located in the stylish Duxton Hill enclave, Mondrian Singapore Duxton is all about modern luxury with an artistic edge. The hotel’s striking design blends sculptural interiors with lush greenery, creating a sleek yet inviting atmosphere. Rooms are thoughtfully designed, and the rooftop infinity pool boasts unbeatable city views. Guests love the semi-buffet breakfast at Bottega di Carna, especially the chili crab omelette. With top-tier restaurants, boutique shopping, and buzzing nightlife steps away, Mondrian Duxton earns its place among the best luxury hotels in Singapore for travelers who love design, dining, and a little indulgence.
CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY FOR YOUR DATES
Photo: Booking.com
$$ | Tanjong Pagar | 5 Stars
The third Tanjong Pagar hotel on this list (and for good reason – it’s a cool area!), Maxwell Reserve brings a dramatic, European-inspired take on luxury. Housed in a century-old British colonial building, it’s all about bold interiors, plush furnishings, and an opulent atmosphere. Guests love the thoughtfully curated dining options, from plant-based dishes at Cultivate Café to progressive Indian flavors at Shikar. The location puts you steps from great restaurants and nightlife, making it a top pick for travelers who love rich heritage with a modern twist.
CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY FOR YOUR DATES
Photo: Booking.com
FAQs about Tanjong Pagar
Is Tanjong Pagar a nice area?
Short answer: yes. Long answer: it’s one of those neighborhoods that wears many hats and manages to look good in all of them.
You’ve got gleaming office towers smushed right up next to ramshackle shophouses, speakeasies hidden behind vending machines, and Korean BBQ joints that stay open till the earliest morning hours. It’s polished, yes—but it’s also full of quirks.
If you’re the kind of person who loves having a third-wave coffee one minute and stumbling onto an old-school kopitiam the next, Tanjong Pagar might just be your vibe.
What is Tanjong Pagar known for?
Tanjong Pagar is basically the overachiever of Singapore neighborhoods. It’s known for its heritage shophouses, bustling Korean enclave (hello, BBQ and beauty shops), sleek skyscrapers, and a nightlife scene that ranges from elegant rooftop bars to “how did we end up in this karaoke lounge at 2am?” moments.
It’s also home to some serious foodie cred—Maxwell Food Centre is right nearby, and you’re never more than a few steps from a really good latte, cocktail, or bowl of noodles.
Historically, it was a dockside district tied to Singapore’s shipping roots—the name itself means “cape of stakes,” a nod to its early days as a fishing village.
You can still feel those working-class echoes in the older architecture and tucked-away temples that peek through the glass-and-steel skyline, which is something I can’t get enough of.
Planning Cheat Sheet: Every Link You Need in One Place
P.S. When you book using my links, you help support Rachel IRL at no extra cost to you. It’s a win-win!
Are you ready to explore Tanjong Pagar?
I hope this post about Tanjong Pagar has helped you plan your time in Singapore a little more thoughtfully! As I mentioned earlier, this neighborhood is absolutely packed with charm, history, and cool finds — and in my opinion, it flies way too far under the radar for many travelers from the U.S. and Europe.
If you’ve been around here for a while, you know my ideal city day involves one big cultural moment (hello, museum!), a bit of boutique browsing, and a slow coffee or snack break to recharge. Tanjong Pagar totally delivers on that formula — and then some.
If you’ve explored the area or plan to, I’d love to hear what you found! Drop a comment below, let’s swap favorite spots.
As always you can always find me on Instagram (tag me in your travel content!), Youtube, or Pinterest.
Happy traveling!
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