Bencoolen ranked 20th on the annual Time Out list of the world’s 39 coolest neighbourhoods for 2025.

Bencoolen’s Unique Urban Tapestry

According to Time Out, Bencoolen emerged as Singapore’s sole entry this year, with editors spotlighting its distinctive blend of history, contemporary culture, and consistently bustling street life.

Location and Landmarks

Located within Singapore’s Central Area, Bencoolen is bounded by Bugis, Rochor, and Bras Basah. The 2025 listing by Time Out highlighted Bencoolen’s “many faces” — heritage sites, temples, and churches lining the same streets as indie cafes and boutique hotels.

Time Out recommends starting your Bencoolen adventure at the MRT station, then wandering the tree-lined street to soak in its quirky benches and street art.

Drop by NAFA for hands-on creative workshops, including acrylic pouring, air plant crafting, or cyanotype printing are on offer, though booking ahead is essential.

When hunger hits, fuel up with a wholesome bowl of Hakka thunder tea rice at Living Wholesome, then dive into photography exhibitions at Objectifs or settle in for board games with friends at The Mind Café.

The judges emphasised Bencoolen’s network of family-run eateries, music stores, and street-level art.

The list was compiled from nominations made by Time Out’s global network of editors and writers.

The neighbourhood’s inclusion was based on factors like diversity, creativity, dining, community spaces, and walkability.

Other neighbourhoods in the 2025 ranking included Sydney’s Burwood and Lisbon’s Anjos, with Japan’s Jimbōchō topping the 2025 ranking.

Visitor Appeal and Accessibility

The area’s appeal to international visitors is enhanced by direct access to its MRT line, streets lined with murals and installations, and the presence of 24-hour eateries.

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Bencoolen is also home to a growing arts community, with regular pop-up events and exhibitions at venues like the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts.