While Singapore is renowned for its glamorous skyline and world-class attractions, it also has many hidden treasures for tourists traveling on a budget. Beneath the glitz and glamor, the Lion City offers numerous places and activities to tourists that do not cost a single penny. Yes, you heard it right! From stunning gardens to spectacular light shows, you can experience many exciting things to try in Singapore on a budget. All you have to do is know where to look and you will realize that the best things in life are indeed free.
So, if you want to visit Singapore without worrying about your budget, here’s a guide to “The Best Things to Do in Singapore for Free”.
Go Green at Gardens By the Bay
Singapore may be known as a bustling metropolis, but it also boasts many natural wonders for its tourists to explore for free. One of the must-visit attractions is the Gardens by the Bay. Spanning over 250 acres (101 hectares), this award-winning garden features impressive flora from around the world, leaving visitors in awe. The garden is centrally located, and the outdoor spaces are entirely free for the public. You can marvel at the futuristic Super Trees, towering vertically over the gardens that come alive with a dazzling light and show every evening between 7:45 pm and 8:45 pm. For a more memorable experience, you can visit the Forest Dome and the Cloud Forest by paying an admission fee.
Explore the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Another natural wonder that the Lion City offers free of cost is the Singapore Botanic Gardens. This 164-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site is a lush oasis and a sanctuary for all nature enthusiasts. The structure shows an evolution from the British period to the present times. The Gardens feature a wide variety of plant species and beautifully landscaped gardens. You can take a leisurely stroll along the winding paths, relax by the serene lakes, or have a picnic amidst the greenery. While entry to the gardens is free, consider exploring the National Orchid Garden, which may have a separate fee.
Mesmerizing sights at Merlion Park
One of the most iconic attractions of Singapore is Merlion Park, located at One Fullerton, near the Central Business District. This Park depicts the cultural symbol of the Lion City at its full glory through the enormous statue of Merlion, a half lion, half fish mythical creature. The Park offers an excellent view of Marina Bay, including Marina Bay Sands, Singapore Flyer, and Esplanade-Theatres on the Bay. Although the Park is open 24/7, the best time to visit is in the evening when the lights come up. Embedded in history and culture, Merlion Park offers a stunning visual experience to visitors, completely free of cost. So, grab your camera and pose next to the giant Merlion for the perfect Instagram post!
Ethnic Neighborhoods: Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam
Singapore is a melting pot of cultures and you only have to take a walk in the streets to experience it. One of the best places to witness the city’s multiculturalism is through a visit to the ethnic enclaves of Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam (Arab Quarter). Chinatown and Little India are known for their bustling streets and large crowds. Kampong Glam on the other hand is quieter and less hectic. You can immerse yourself in the city’s heritage by exploring these bustling streets lined with colorful shophouses, temples and mosques. Sample the diverse cuisine of different ethnic groups in their authentic glory. Do not forget to check out the street art and murals depicting the vibrant history and culture of these ethnic neighborhoods!
Hiking at the MacRitchie Reservoir
The MacRitchie Reservoir, situated within the tropical rainforest of Central Catchment Nature Reserve, is a must-visit destination for all nature and sports enthusiasts. The 11km hike around the MacRitchie Trails offers breathtaking views without any cost! You might bump into different species of fauna like long-tailed macaque monkeys, squirrels, monitor lizards, and on rare occasions, even colugos (flying lemurs). You can either take a leisurely stroll or walk up to the Treetop Walks, a 250-meter aerial free-standing suspension bridge, for an exhilarating view of the reservoir and the natural landscape. So, if you enjoy hiking, grab your action shoes and follow the trail to Singapore’s stunning natural reservoir.
Stroll through the Sentosa Boardwalk
Sentosa Island is one of the most attractive tourist spots in Singapore. You can reach there by the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit System) and the Sentosa Express and by cable car. But you can also reach the Island by the Sentosa Boardwalk, which is free of cost! The Boardwalk is a secure pedestrian bridge connecting the VivoCity Shopping Mall and Sentosa Island. Visitors can enjoy their walk comfortably as the Boardwalk ensures protection from the sun and offers moving walkways. You can also experience the beautiful sunset view while walking through the Boardwalk.
Exploring Street Art at Tiong Bahru Pasar and Haji Lane
The Lion City displays its culture and history through numerous street art and murals at several places. Tiong Bahru Pasar and Haji Lane are two such places decorated with vibrant and meaningful murals on the walls. The murals at Haji Lane, located in the Kampong Glam neighborhood, are impressive for their vibrance and color. You can enjoy a walk through the streets and also explore the bars and restaurants on the way. Tiong Bahru situated at the Bukit Merah Planning Area is also another attraction to see street art in the Lion City. The murals, depicting the traditional way of life at its finest, will leave you nostalgic about the olden times. Remember to charge your cameras and phones because you will never get tired of clicking pictures!
Celebrating Art and Aesthetics at the National Gallery Singapore
If you have a passion for art and history, Singapore has plenty of free offerings to satisfy your interests. The National Gallery Singapore houses the largest public collection of modern art in Southeast Asia. You can appreciate the gallery’s permanent exhibitions featuring works of many famous artists, without paying a dime! The gallery with its impressive collection shows its commitment to make art freely accessible to the public. Don’t forget to notice the gallery’s iconic building structure, which seamlessly blends two national monuments, the former Supreme Court and City Hall.
A Walk Through the Past at Fort Canning Park
Fort Canning Park is an iconic landmark serving as a legacy of Singapore’s golden age during the rule of powerful Malay Kings. It also serves as a reminder of Singapore’s involvement in World War II, under British rule. The underground bunker called Battlebox, currently closed for entry, is one of the many historic remains located within the Park. The Park also has an amphitheater hosting many events and music concerts. Although most of the attractions require a fee, you can walk through the lush green space and appreciate the natural beauty free of cost!
Live Performances at Esplanade- Theatres on the Bay
Esplanade, overlooking Marina Bay, often hosts free outdoor performances and events. It is an architectural marvel, popularly known as “the Durian” by the Singaporeans due to its strong resemblance to the local fruit. Esplanade comprises a 1600-seat Concert Hall, a 2000-seat Theatre, and many other small performance venues. It is a cultural hub that embodies Singapore’s commitment to fostering creativity and artistic excellence. While many performances require a fee, there are many spontaneous and free events that you can enjoy at Esplanade. The outdoor spaces also offer stunning views of Marina Bay and the city skyline.
Conclusion
Exploring Singapore on a budget does not mean missing out on the city’s incredible attractions and experiences. From awe-inspiring natural gardens and visually pleasing sights to cultural and historical spots, the Lion City offers something for every budget traveler. So leave your worries behind and pack your bags. The best things in Singapore are for free, awaiting your discovery and promising a journey rich in good memories and joy.
