Singapore is a shopaholic’s paradise and a food lover’s dream — especially when it comes to bustling markets and authentic local eateries. What sets Singapore apart is its seamless blend of tradition and modernity: vibrant wet markets, colorful shophouses, and contemporary shopping districts all within easy reach. We particularly enjoy tours that combine cultural insights with hands-on experiences, like the Singapore Market to Table Culinary Experience, where you learn to cook local dishes from fresh market ingredients. These tours offer genuine engagement and delicious results that linger well after you leave.
Whether you’re after a behind-the-scenes look at Singapore’s food markets, a private tasting tour, or a quirky neighborhood exploration, this list has something to inspire every shopper and foodie. From cooking classes that teach you Singaporean recipes to private market visits and heritage walks, the options are both practical and memorable.
1. Singapore Market to Table Culinary Experience (Wet Market Tour included)
At number one, this small-group cooking class with a market visit is perfect for travelers who want to go beyond just shopping — instead, you learn how to cook like a local. The tour kicks off with a visit to a lively wet market, where your hosts, licensed guides and experienced chefs, introduce you to typical ingredients used in Singaporean cuisine. You’ll get tips on choosing fresh seafood, spices, and produce, all while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Afterwards, enjoy breakfast at a neighborhood coffee shop, where you’ll learn how to order Singaporean coffee just right.
Once in the cooking studio, you’ll prepare several dishes from scratch, including local favorites such as shrimp rolls, chicken rice, and a traditional dessert. This hands-on class is limited to 10 people, ensuring personalized attention and plenty of interaction. The reviews highlight the warmth and knowledge of guides like Vivian and Vidhya, as well as the delicious food that results from your efforts. It’s an ideal experience for foodies who want to understand Singapore’s culinary roots while having fun.
Bottom Line: This tour balances cultural insight, cooking skills, and a friendly atmosphere. It’s especially suited for those who love interactive experiences and want a tangible taste of Singaporean flavor.
2. Singapore Chinatown Market Private Food Tour with 7 Food Tastings
For around $475, the Chinatown Market Private Food Tour offers an immersive, personalized exploration of one of Singapore’s most iconic neighborhoods. This 3-hour tour combines walking through historic streets, visiting gardens and malls, and sampling seven different local dishes in various hawker centers and markets. Your guide will introduce you to Chinatown’s architecture, including restored shophouses and the ornate Hindu temples that date back to 1827, along with a tranquil rooftop garden.
What makes this experience stand out is its focus on hidden culinary gems away from the tourist crowds, plus the opportunity to learn about Singaporean culture through food and architecture. The tastings include a variety of flavors, from spicy satay to savory dim sum, designed to showcase Singapore’s multicultural heritage. Reviews commend the knowledgeable guide and the intimate, flexible nature of the walk, which can be tailored to your pace.
Bottom Line: Perfect for serious food lovers who also want insight into Singapore’s history and architecture. It’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and eager to sample diverse local dishes.
3. Singapore: Market-to-Table Experience and Cooking Class
At number three, this market-to-table cooking experience offers an affordable, comprehensive look at Singaporean cuisine in just three hours. The tour begins with a guided visit to a local wet market, where you’ll learn about the ingredients that make Singapore’s dishes special. Afterward, you’ll return to a cooking studio to prepare three traditional dishes, guided by a warm, experienced chef.
This tour stands out for its accessibility — it’s suitable for all ages and skill levels, making it a good choice for families or casual travelers. The reviews highlight how entertaining and informative the guide Collin is, sharing useful cooking tips and cultural insights. You’ll finish the class with a hearty lunch of your own creations, plus recipes to recreate at home.
Bottom Line: Ideal for newcomers to Singaporean cuisine who want a relaxed, hands-on cooking class combined with a neighborhood tour. It offers excellent value for the experience.
4. Singapore Limousine Van Tour: Shopping & Street Food Trail
For those who prefer a private, flexible approach, the Singapore Limousine Van Tour is a superb choice. Starting at $109 per person, this customizable tour allows you to explore Singapore’s best shopping districts and street food in comfort. You can choose to focus on bustling areas like Orchard Road, or venture into heritage-rich neighborhoods like Joo Chiat and Haji Lane.
The tour also includes stops at East Coast Lagoon Food Village or Lau Pa Sat for local delicacies, with private air-conditioned transport between stops. It’s flexible in duration — from 4 hours for a quick overview to over 6 hours for a leisurely exploration, ideal for shoppers and foodies alike who want to set their own pace.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a personalized experience with the convenience of private transport. It’s especially suited for those with specific shopping or street food interests.
5. Private Market Visit and Cooking Class With A Professional Chef
Next, the Private Market Visit and Cooking Class offers a tailored culinary experience for those who prefer exclusivity. Over about four hours, you’ll choose a menu of authentic Singaporean dishes, visit a local wet market to pick fresh ingredients, then cook with a professional chef. The tour includes a 1.5-hour market visit option, making it flexible for your schedule.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach — you select your dishes and learn directly from a chef, plus take home recipes and a souvenir apron. The reviews show that the professional chef makes the class engaging, with an emphasis on learning techniques and flavors.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies who want a private, customizable experience and the chance to learn from a chef directly. Ideal if you enjoy tailored culinary adventures.
6. Quaint Little Shops & Tiong Bahru
For a different kind of shopping and cultural experience, the Tiong Bahru tour offers a walk through one of Singapore’s oldest housing estates, famed for its art deco architecture and hip cafes. Over about three hours, you’ll see murals, visit a heritage provision shop, and sample local street foods at a hawker center.
This tour is particularly suited for those interested in Singapore’s architectural styles and local lifestyle, with a focus on small shops and eateries that reflect the neighborhood’s character. The included lunch makes it a relaxed way to spend the morning.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a blend of cultural sights, local flavors, and a taste of Singapore’s trendy side. Limited to small groups for an intimate experience.
$98.88 per person
7. Learn to cook authentic Peranakan food with local market tour
Finally, the Peranakan cooking class is a longer, more immersive experience. It takes about six hours and includes a private chef guiding you through making two signature dishes — assam fishhead and ayam pongteh. The class features a market tour where you select ingredients, plus recipes printed for you to take home.
This tour is ideal for those fascinated by the Peranakan culture — a blend of Chinese, Malaysian, and Indonesian influences — and eager to master bold, complex flavors. While it’s pricier, the depth of the experience and the quality of dishes make it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: Best for culinary enthusiasts with an interest in regional cuisines and a full day to dedicate. It offers a rich, hands-on journey into Peranakan dishes.
$168.16 per person
How to Choose the Right Shopping & Market Tour in Singapore
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, time, and budget. If you love actively cooking and want an authentic meal, consider the Singapore Market to Table Culinary Experience. For a more comprehensive food and culture, the Chinatown private tour offers a deeper dive into history and flavors.
If you prefer a private, tailored experience, the Private Market Visit and Cooking Class or the Limousine Van Tour provide flexibility. Those interested in architecture and neighborhood charm should consider the Tiong Bahru tour. For serious culinary fans, the Peranakan cooking class offers an in-depth exploration.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or if you want a specific time slot. Always check the duration and whether meals or market visits are included to match your schedule.
Singapore’s vibrant markets, diverse culinary traditions, and unique neighborhoods make it an ideal destination for food and shopping lovers. Whether you want to cook, taste, or explore, these tours will enrich your trip with authentic experiences and lasting memories. Consider what excites you most — and book now to secure your spot.