The Budget Travellers Guide to Singapore: Free Things To Do

Singapore is regarded as one of the world’s premier tourist destinations. The bustling city-state is well-known for a great many things, including futuristic structures that look like they’re plucked straight from science fiction and numerous upscale shopping centres housed in glittering buildings.

However, beneath Singapore's facade of technology and grandeur lies a treasure trove of must-see destinations that are perfect for travellers on a budget.

In fact, Singapore has plenty of sights and free attractions that are perfect for the budget traveller. Many of these destinations can be easily accessed from hotels near Singapore airport (a tourist destination in and of itself!).

With some planning and insider knowledge, you can explore these places of interest and experience the best of Singapore without having to spend too much.

Here are just a few free or budget-friendly places and attractions to add to your next Singapore itinerary:

Gardens by the Bay

No visit to Singapore is complete without a visit to one of Singapore’s most iconic attractions – Gardens by the Bay. Located in downtown Singapore, this nature park has an impressive collection of millions of plant species from all over the world and offers travellers an opportunity to relax amidst lush greenery.

Although the park’s biodomes require an entrance fee, visiting the garden complex itself is absolutely free. Its other spaces, like the Bay East Garden, Heritage Gardens, and Dragonfly & Kingfisher Lakes can also be explored by visitors free of charge.

Another free attraction at Gardens by the Bay is the dazzling “Garden Rhapsody”. This award-winning LED light and sound show, which happens every evening at 7:45 and 8:45 P.M, is a visual spectacle that will take your breath away.

Singapore Botanic Gardens

Right at the fringe of the city’s iconic Orchard Road shopping district is Singapore Botanic Gardens, the perfect place to be if you want to take things slow in fast-paced Singapore.

Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Singapore Botanic Gardens is home to a vast array of flora and fauna, including a variety of birds, butterflies, and frogs. If you enjoy being in the midst of nature, this sprawling garden is a must-do on your Singapore itinerary.

In this colourful space, both locals and tourists can engage in a variety of relaxing outdoor activities, from enjoying a leisurely walk though their themed gardens to having a cosy picnic with your closest friends. Great news for budget travellers, it's all for free.

MacRitchie Reservoir Park

MacRitchie Reservoir Park is another free attraction in Singapore where travellers can rest and unwind at no cost. Located in the heart of Singapore, this 12-hectare park is a nature lover’s paradise with multiple green spaces where visitors can engage in different outdoor activities to their heart’s content.

One popular way to explore the park is taking one of its three nature trails. Depending on the experience you want, you can take the 3 km green trail (easiest), the 7 km orange trail (mid-level), or the 11 km yellow trail (most challenging). Or take a fascinating walk through lush forest canopy on the “TreeTop Walk“, a 250-metre aerial free standing suspension bridge that offers a bird's eye view.

If you prefer to revel in the stillness of the park instead, you can try freshwater-fishing at the designated fishing spots. Or, just sit down on one of the benches to keep an eye out for wildlife such as monkeys, monitor lizards, and a variety of birds.

Remember to follow park guidelines and keep the reservoir clean to thoroughly enjoy your experience.

Sentosa Island

Many attractions in Sentosa Island require an admission fee, but good news for budget travellers – there are also a whole lot of things you can do on this island without paying a cent!

For example, Sentosa Island has three beautiful beaches—Siloso Beach, Palawan Beach, and Tanjong Beach— where you can take leisurely walks and get that perfect tan.

You can also go on a nice afternoon stroll on the Sentosa Boardwalk and marvel at the gorgeous sunset views. For those who like to keep active, embark on a scenic treetop walk on Fort Siloso Skywalk.

With so many free attractions and things to do on Sentosa, your time under the sun will definitely be a memorable one.

Temples, Mosques, and Monasteries

Did you know that Singapore is home to 10 official religions? Singapore has a rich, colourful, and diverse culture, some aspects of which can be experienced in one of the many places of worship that are spread across the city.

Make some time to visit the following temples, monasteries, and mosques, so you can fully appreciate Singapore’s heritage. Just remember to dress modestly, follow the rules, and be respectful always.

• Sri Mariamman Temple
  The Sri Mariamman Temple is the oldest and most famous Hindu temple in Singapore, located in the Chinatown area. This temple is famous for its intricately carved gopuram (tower) and colourful sculptures, as well as the elaborate detailing on the temple’s interior and exterior.
• Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
  Also located in Chinatown, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is a magnificent Buddhist temple that houses what is believed to be a tooth relic of the Buddha. Visitors can marvel at the intricate architecture and ornate decorations, and explore the temple’s various halls, including the Sacred Light Hall and the Eminent Sangha Museum.
• Thian Hock Keng Temple
  Also known as the “Temple of Heavenly Happiness,” the Thian Hock Keng Temple is one of Singapore's oldest and most important Hokkien temples. It boasts exquisite craftsmanship and vibrant colours, with intricate carvings and statues that depict various deities. This temple is located on Telok Ayer Street, where you can also find Telok Ayer Green.
• Sultan Mosque
  Located in the vibrant Kampong Glam neighbourhood, the Sultan Mosque, or Masjid Sultan, is a prominent landmark and a symbol of Islamic heritage in Singapore. The mosque is famous for its grand architecture that features golden domes and distinct Islamic designs. Tourists are welcome to visit the mosque and take photos outside of prayer times.

Singapore may be branded as an “expensive” country, but you shouldn’t let this reputation keep you from enjoying what it has to offer. Indeed, the Lion City boasts a wide array of experiences, and there are many options and activities for budget travellers.

By taking advantage of the city’s free sights and attractions, you can create lasting memories and discover the essence of this vibrant city-state without breaking the bank.

If you are in the stages on planning your next trip to Singapore, check out our detailed 3-Day Singapore Itinerary to make the most of your time in this beautiful country!