The charming neighbourhood of Novena is filled with peaceful residential streets that reveal shopping malls, street-side boutiques and a range of family-owned restaurants. Positioned just outside Singapore’s city centre, Novena keeps you close to the country’s top sightseeing experiences while providing its own memorable entertainment.
Things to do in Novena
Make sure you visit Novena Square Shopping Mall, a retail mecca with international and local stores, including Adidas, GNC, Lovisa and The Body Shop. Take a break with a coffee and snack at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf or enjoy some local delicacies at TOMI SUSHI or Kopitiam. Sports lovers should head next door to the sports-themed mall Velocity, while families will love the kid-oriented events and stores at United Square Shopping Mall.
If you prefer to experience traditional Singaporean shopping, head to Whampoa Hawker Centre and browse the many stalls selling local produce, handicrafts and handmade clothing. Afterwards, duck over to Loy Kee for authentic Asian dishes or check out Fayidha Restaurant for delicious Indian fare.
Need a dose of culture? Venture over to the revered Burmese Buddhist Temple, first constructed in 1875. You can admire the intricate architecture, meet Burmese monks and witness weekly celebrations and yearly festivities, such as Water Festival and Vesak Day. It’s positioned near the Kallang River, where you can grab authentic Halal at Fix Grill.
Take advantage of Novena’s city-fringe location by visiting the nearby National Museum, which houses ancient Singaporean artefacts. You can also drive to Gardens by the Bay in 15 minutes, a man-made wonder with greenhouses, waterfront parks and the impressive “super trees”.
Getting around Novena
Novena is linked to the rest of Singapore via MRT lines, public buses and taxis, with the centre of Singapore only two MRT stops away. You can also easily walk from one Novena shopping mall to the next.