Tiong Bahru Market Car Park Guide: Parking Rates, Hours, and Tips

Tiong Bahru Market is a bustling hub in Singapore, known for its heritage charm, excellent hawker food, and vibrant shopping scene. As popular as the market is, finding parking here can be a bit of a challenge, especially during peak hours. This guide offers a comprehensive look into the Tiong Bahru Market car park, including parking rates, operating hours, insider tips, and FAQs to help you plan a smooth visit.

Overview of Tiong Bahru Market and Its Importance

Tiong Bahru Market holds a special place in the hearts of both locals and tourists. Located at 30 Seng Poh Road, it’s one of Singapore’s oldest and most iconic markets. The market was renovated and reopened in 2006, merging old-world charm with modern amenities.

On the ground floor, you’ll find a wet market selling fresh produce, meat, and flowers. Upstairs, a vibrant hawker center offers some of the best local dishes at affordable prices. Given its popularity, parking can often be tricky — understanding the car park situation can save you a lot of time and frustration.

Where to Park: Tiong Bahru Market Car Park Locations

The primary car park serving Tiong Bahru Market is located directly adjacent to the market building. It’s an open-air, ground-level car park, offering convenient access straight into the market.

Additional parking options include

HDB parking lots nearby (e.g., Blk 22A, 30, 31, 32 Tiong Bahru Road).
Public car parks along Seng Poh Road and Lim Liak Street.
Private car parks at nearby shopping complexes such as Tiong Bahru Plaza (a 7-10 minute walk away).

Having backup parking options is smart, especially on weekends and during meal times when demand peaks.

Parking Rates at Tiong Bahru Market

Understanding the parking fees ahead of time can help you budget your visit better. Here’s a breakdown of typical rates:

Tiong Bahru Market Car Park (Open-Air)

Monday to Saturday (7:00 AM – 10:30 PM):

$1.20 per half hour
Sundays and Public Holidays:

Free parking (for many lots) from 7:00 AM to 10:30 PM — but this varies, so check the signage.

After 10:30 PM:

$0.60 per half hour

Nearby HDB Car Parks:

Per Entry (After 10:30 PM): $2.00 – $3.00
Regular Hours: $1.20 per half hour
Rates can vary slightly depending on whether the car park is a sheltered HDB car park or an open-air lot, so always confirm at the entrance.

Car Park Operating Hours and Accessibility

The main Tiong Bahru Market car park operates 24/7, but the market itself has specific hours:

Wet Market Hours: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Hawker Centre Hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (some stalls open earlier or later)

Accessibility is fairly good, with ramps and lifts nearby, making it wheelchair- and stroller-friendly. However, during heavy rain, the open-air car park can be a bit inconvenient, so it’s good to have umbrellas handy.

Tips for Finding Parking Easily at Tiong Bahru Market

Arrive Early:

If you plan to shop at the wet market, aim to arrive before 9:00 AM. After that, the crowd thickens and parking spots become scarce.

Visit on Weekdays:

Parking is much easier on weekdays, especially between late morning and early afternoon.

Park at Tiong Bahru Plaza:

If the market’s car park is full, Tiong Bahru Plaza offers a large sheltered car park. Plus, you can grab a coffee or do some shopping before or after your market visit.

Consider Public Transport:

Tiong Bahru MRT Station (EW17) is about a 10-minute walk away. If you’re coming only to eat or shop lightly, MRT is far more convenient than driving.

Watch for ERP and Parking Coupons:

Some surrounding areas operate under the coupon parking system. Make sure you have enough coupons if you’re parking at roadside lots!

Alternative Parking Options Nearby

When Tiong Bahru Market’s own parking is full, you’re not out of luck. Here are a few alternatives:

Tiong Bahru Plaza (302 Tiong Bahru Road):
- Sheltered, multi-story car park
- Rates: $1.50 per hour (weekday rates), capped at $5.00 after 6 PM
Beo Crescent Car Park (near Havelock Road):
- About a 10-15 minute walk
Kim Pong Road Open Space Parking:
- A small lot often overlooked, but good if you’re lucky.
On-Street Parking along Lim Liak Street and Seng Poh Road:
- Limited but great for quick stops.

Exploring these alternatives can save you significant time instead of circling the main market lot.

Things to Do After Parking Your Car

Once you’ve secured your parking, there’s plenty to explore around Tiong Bahru:

Eat at the Hawker Centre: Must-tries include Jian Bo Shui Kueh, Tiong Bahru Hainanese Boneless Chicken Rice, and Zhong Yu Yuan Wei Wanton Mee.
Shop Fresh Produce: Grab seasonal fruits, fresh seafood, and flowers.
Explore Tiong Bahru’s Streets: Known for its Art Deco architecture, mural trails, and indie bookstores like BooksActually.
Café Hopping: There are amazing cafes like Tiong Bahru Bakery, Forty Hands, and Creamier.
Visit Nostalgic Stores: Check out vintage shops and boutique stores tucked into this heritage neighborhood.

Conclusion

Parking at Tiong Bahru Market doesn’t have to be a hassle if you plan ahead. Knowing the parking rates, operating hours, and nearby alternatives can help you enjoy your visit stress-free. Whether you’re shopping for fresh produce, indulging in hawker fare, or simply exploring Singapore’s most charming neighborhood, this guide has you covered. So, the next time you’re heading to Tiong Bahru Market, drive in with confidence!