8 Instagram-worthy spots in downtown malls you wish you knew sooner

Strike a pose – your grid is about to get a glow-up
Urban Farm
Photograph: Time Out Singapore
Time Out Singapore in partnership with CapitaLand
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There's no denying that Singapore's downtown core really gets down to business – and we don't just mean the CBD. Packed with history, culture, colour, and unexpected charm, the area is the ultimate playing field for content creators, urban explorers, and anyone who enjoys stumbling upon something a little offbeat in a familiar part of town.

Beyond the gleaming skyscrapers and heritage shophouses, you’ll find retail destinations like Bugis Junction, Bugis+, Bugis Street, CQ @ Clarke Quay, and Funan that offer more than just shopping and dining. These spots are brimming with photo-worthy gems – think vibrant murals, quirky corners, hidden rooftop gardens, and eye-catching architecture. Whether you’re crafting your next Instagram post, scouting a standout backdrop for TikTok, or just hunting for a fresh hangout with good vibes, these malls have it all.

Not sure where to start? Here's your hit list of downtown’s most photogenic hotspots that deserve a starring role in your camera roll.

Bugis Town

One of the oldest districts in Singapore, Bugis has evolved into a dynamic cultural enclave with a heady mix of arts, heritage, and high-street shopping where tradition meets trend. It's no surprise that the area tops our list as it shines with mural-covered streets and design-centric spaces. But if you want to stand out from the crowd, let us take you to the hidden corners of Bugis Town malls including Bugis Junction, Bugis+ and Bugis Street.

Fountain Square @ Bugis Junction

Enclosed by elegant shophouse façades with intricate detailing and nostalgic signages that add to the vintage appeal, this open-air square oozes main-character energy. Bright, breezy and always buzzing, it’s the kind of space where you can channel your inner fashion icon and stand out from the crowd with a slow-mo strut through the walkway. And don’t skip the water fountain nearby – it makes for a dynamic shot that adds a touch of drama to your grid.

Near #01-66 McDonald's, Level 1, Bugis Junction

Linkbridge from Bugis+ to Bugis Street

Bridges are great for a birds-eye view but this particular one will stop you in your tracks. The bridge boasts clean lines, industrial tones, and just the right amount of edge thanks to its grey-and-red palette. If you're into street-style editorial shots, this is your stage. Snap an OOTD here, or just pause to admire the view – you’re basically straddling the line between the two very different vibes of Bugis Street and Bugis+, and somehow it works.

Near Lift Lobby B, Level 2, Bugis+

Art Lane wall mural and spiral staircase at Bugis Street

There’s more to Bugis Street than great bargains and unique finds – it’s also home to one of the city’s most striking hidden gems. Fans of the area’s iconic spiral staircases and wall murals will be thrilled to find even more art here. Formerly a quiet back lane, Art Lane is now a pedestrian-only stretch bursting with colour and creativity, offering a fresh set of backdrops for your next photo dump. On weekends, it comes alive with a vintage market featuring thrifted fashion, custom trinkets, retro collectibles, and live performances. With added seating areas and multiple pathways connecting to the main shopping street, it’s the perfect pit stop for shoppers and snap-happy explorers.

Bugis Street Art Lane

Funan

Funan’s not just a mall – it’s a blueprint for modern living. With design-forward stores and a sleek aesthetic throughout, it’s got an effortless cool charm that makes you feel like you’re already living your best active life. But beyond all of that, Funan is also photogenic with a rooftop farm, a geometric link bridge, an indoor cycling track and the highest climbing wall in the civic district.

Level 7 Urban Farm

Nestled on Funan’s rooftop, this pocket of greenery feels like a breath of fresh air in the middle of the CBD. The lush surroundings provide the ideal contrast to your streetwear look or weekend brunch ‘fit. Whether you’re after a mindful moment or a botanical setting, this little hideaway delivers. Pro tip: swing by in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds.

Level 7, Funan (accessible via Lift Lobby A, turn right and follow the signs) 

Level 1 Link Bridge

Simple and sleek, the Level 1 Link Bridge is all about understated style. Framed by clean horizontal and vertical lines, it adds a subtle geometric touch that makes for a visually interesting, yet neutral backdrop. It’s the ideal spot to let your bold or vibrant outfits do all the talking.

Near #01-11 Tororitenshi no Warabi-Mochi, Level 1, Funan

CQ @ Clarke Quay

Once the city’s main commercial shipping hub, CQ @ Clarke Quay is now a kaleidoscope of colour, culture and charisma. The refurbished godowns and shophouses are now home to riverfront and pet-friendly restaurants, buzzy bars, nightlife icons like Zouk, and more, but look closer and you’ll spot little surprises everywhere. Set against the flowing Singapore River, CQ’s pastel-hued shophouses and modern design touches create a striking blend of heritage and contemporary cool.

Read Bridge Overpass

Perched atop the iconic Read Bridge, you'll find one of the best angles of CQ’s colourful shophouse façade and that dreamy angel canopy. It's dramatic in the best way, especially at sunset when the golden glow does half the work for you.

On Read Bridge, connecting Clarke Quay MRT to CQ 

“The Journey of the Fire Fish” mural by Yip Yew Chong x Tobyato

What do you get when two of Singapore’s most imaginative visual storytellers join forces? A whimsical, 90-metre-long mural inspired by CQ's heritage as a Teochew enclave. Painted by Yip Yew Chong and tobyato, the mural wraps around the warehouses like a dream unfurling. It’s rich in detail, bursting with colour, and practically made for slow strolls, thoughtful gazes, and well-earned close-ups.

Block B, beside Tan Tye Place drop-off point 

The Riverhouse

A 154-year-old Chinese mansion cloaked in deep red and surrounded by lush greenery, The Riverhouse is one of CQ’s oldest landmarks. Steeped in history and draped in character, it’s now home to Mimi, a refined Chinese restaurant, and PULSE, an eclectic live entertainment venue that brings fresh energy to the heritage space. 

While you’re there, take some time to admire The Garden of Ripples, Soilboy’s tribute to the legacy and cultural significance of The Riverhouse.

Along Riverfront, in front of The Riverhouse

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