52 FREE THINGS TO DO IN SINGAPORE TO SAVE MONEY

Discovering free things to do in Singapore is surprisingly easy, even in this cosmopolitan, vibrant and historical nation. As with everything Singapore does, the country ensures that there are fun and inspiring experiences for everyone to enjoy, whatever budget you have available to spend. 

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FREE THINGS TO DO IN SINGAPORE

 

Singapore offers visitors a heady mix of culture, green verdant gardens, stunning architecture, Michelin-starred restaurants, theme parks, wildlife and a polished collection of accommodation.

Despite being ranked as one of the most expensive countries in the world to visit, the good news is that you don’t have to miss out on famous landmarks, culture, history or entertainment with the number of free things to do in the city.

Free tourist attractions in Singapore include free museums, free things to do at night and even free things to do in Singapore Airport! Check out this long list of freebies by category, to get inspired!

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FREE NATURE & WILDLIFE ATTRACTIONS IN SINGAPORE

 

Singapore is affectionately called the Garden City due to its amazing parks and lush green open spaces. Pockets of nature provide a welcome respite from city life and can be found everywhere throughout the island.

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1. SINGAPORE BOTANIC GARDENS

 

A renowned tropical garden with UNESCO World Heritage status, this sprawling 64 hectare oasis provides tranquility amid a beautiful landscape.

 

Located in central Singapore near Orchard Road, the gardens are easily accessed from several entrance points. The Gardens has been developed along a Four-Core Concept, with each core offering its own set of attractions.

Download a map and follow one of the trails to view lush manicured lawns, lakes, wildlife, freestanding sculptures and an array of over 60,000 plants.

The gardens are one of the most famous places in Singapore and worthy of your time.

Well worthy of the S$5 admission fee, is the famous National Orchid Garden, home to over 1000 species and 2000 hybrids of orchid.

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2. CHANGI POINT BOARDWALK

 

This well-lit boardwalk, in the western end of Changi Point offers free coastline views. Choose from six distinct sections or walk from start to finish and enjoy the varied flora and fauna.

Start from Changi Creek, get away from the tourist crowd and discover this great place to relax in Singapore.

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3. PULAU UBIN ISLAND

 

Take a 10-minute bumboat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal to this 1,020-hectare island. You will be transported back in time to the 1960’s, with old-school village houses on stilts, gravel roads and abundant wildlife.

Follow the Tree Trail boardwalk for 40 minutes to Chek Jawa Wetlands, the jewel of this rustic charm island. Alternatively, hire a bike on arrival, for a different perspective.

The 100-hectare wetlands, only uncovered in 2000, is teeming with birdlife, plants, fauna and wildlife. Get a great view over the area by climbing the 20 metre tall Jejawi Tower. Keep your eyes peeled for Collared Kingfisher, Straw-Headed Bulbul and even monkeys.

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4. GARDENS BY THE BAY

 

Gardens By The Bay is a man-made interpretation of the plant kingdom. Brilliant artistry and use of plant species found in cool, temperate and tropical habitats have made this one of Singapore’s top attractions.

 

Twelve of the 18 Supertrees within the gardens are in the Supertree Grove, with the tallest standing up to 16-storeys high. While there is a charge to enter the bio-domes, there are several free attractions. Stroll around Heritage Gardens, Sun Pavillion, World Of plants, The Canyon and Dragonfly & Kingfisher Lakes.

The Dragonfly and Kingfisher Lakes boardwalk is an ideal vantage point for one of the best things to do in Singapore at night. The supertrees are spectacularly lit up!

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5. LABRADOR NATURE RESERVE

 

Part of the Southern Ridges, this reserve is teeming with wildlife and is a nature lovers delight. As it is built on the forest edge, it offers prime views of the sea.

Keep a look at for Oriental Magpie-Robin and the resident squirrels.

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6. EAST COAST PARK

 

 

With a promise of “Recreation For All”, you won’t have time to get bored along this 15-kilometre stretch of beaches. Even if you prefer to stroll or sit and relax, you are bound to get chatting with locals. This is, one of their favourite parks after all.

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7. FORT CANNING PARK

 

One of Singapore’s historical landmarks, this 18-hectare park has seen a lot of action over the years.

 

One of Singapore’s historical landmarks, this 18-hectare park has seen a lot of action over the years.

Aside from being a tranquil oasis to wander through, “Forbidden Hill” as it was once known, served as headquarters for the British Army.

There are several interesting artefacts to view as you explore the green spaces. Check out the Spice Garden, 9-pound cannon, lighthouse, Sir Raffles House and Fort Canning Hotel. We have included this unique hotel in our list of where to stay in Singapore!

If you feel like spending some money, the Battle Box Museum is worth a visit.

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8. CONEY ISLAND

 

You can enter the Island via two pedestrian roads, bringing you to the East or West entrance. Set aside half a day to fully immerse yourself in this bolt hole and enjoy the tranquility.

Walk along the boardwalk to a mangrove forest, sit on the beach or try spotting one of 80 species of birds.

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9. THE SOUTHERN RIDGES

 

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and head for the hills – literally!

 

Incorporating Mount Faber, Telok Blangah, Hort and Kent Ridge Parks, this 10-kilometre stretch of connecting trails gets you back amongst nature. The hike offers panoramic views of the city and harbour.

A highlight is the undulating Henderson Waves, the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore.

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10. MACRITCHIE RESERVOIR AND TREETOP WALK

 

Offering the chance to walk through mature forest whilst finding your zen.

The highlight of the trails is the TreeTop Walk, where you cross a 250 m long suspension bridge. I should mention, that you will be perched 25 m up, in the tree canopy!

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11. BUKIT TIMAH NATURE RESERVE

 

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, a mere 12 km from the city, clutches onto Bukit Timah Hill (163 m) and is a rainforest gem. You will be surrounded by lush varied flora, fauna and forest canopies.

Follow winding trails as you look out for native wildlife, including long-tailed macaques who have made the reserve their home.

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FREE GALLERIES & MUSEUMS IN SINGAPORE

 

If you look beyond the main galleries and museums to the smaller niche ones, there are some great free attractions to be discovered.

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12. NUS MUSEUM

 

As one of the city’s lesser-known cultural museums, this is a hidden gem, off the main tourist path. You can expect to learn about Asian regional arts and culture through numerous exhibitions and collections.

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13. SINGAPORE CITY GALLERY

 

There is no denying that Singapore has transformed itself into an incredible modern city.

From it’s humble beginnings as a fishing village, the country has, through a strategic planning strategy, become an innovative metropolis.

Follow this planning process, through to future proposed building developments. Envisage, through a detailed 11 m x 11 m scale model, just how the skyline will look once all proposed works are complete.

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14. ART HOUSE

 

Arts House focuses in particular on the literary arts, celebrating artists from Singapore and beyond. Built in 1827 as the Parliament Building, it is Singapore’s oldest colonial building.

Take the time to walk around and look at the splendid architecture.

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15. SINGAPORE MARITIME GALLERY

 

Take a journey through Singapore’s history, from a small trading post into a premier Global Hub Port and leading International Maritime Centre.

Make fascinating discoveries in the museum’s multi-sensory exhibitions. Use a compass, nautical charts and the stars, to navigate the seas. This is a fun-packed gallery and definitely worth a visit.

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16. ION ART GALLERY

 

The Gallery focuses on contemporary, modern art and design. It’s exhibitions showcase work of emerging and established artists and designers.

Wander around the various visual arts and try to pick a favourite from the multi-media and digital art on show.

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17. GEM MUSEUM

 

Discover the transformation of gemstones from mine to marketing them to the industry and trade. The Gem Museum is Singapore’s first private gemology museum and it’s most comprehensive.

Understand gemstones even if you can’t afford to buy them!

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18. PARKVIEW MUSEUM

 

Enter the Gotham style building and you are transported into art-deco land. The museum features a variety of international and local contemporary art pieces, in keeping with the iconic building housing them.

Sip your coffee in “Atlas”, the cocktail lounge in the lobby, as you gaze at the ornate ceiling and 12 metre-high gin wall.

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19. SCIENCE CENTRE SINGAPORE

 

On Friday nights, the Observatory at Science Centre Singapore, offer “open-for-all sessions” to the public. Bag yourself a time card if you want to look through the main telescope.

Positioned next to the Equator, the Observatory offers viewing of constellations in both the northern and southern celestial hemispheres. So look up and enjoy the vista!

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20. FORT SILOSO

 

Fort Siloso served as part of Singapore’s defences and was lost from British rule to the Japanese in 1942.

The on-site museum is packed full of interesting WWII memorabilia including coastal guns and underground tunnels.

The Surrender Chambers are brought back to life with interactive video and wax soldier figures.

Be sure to check out the 230 m long mural along Fort Siloso Road, depicting the historical timeline of the Fort. Then take the 11 storey-high Skywalk walking trail high above the tree canopy for great views.

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21. GILLMAN BARRACKS

 

Not only do you get to admire colonial architecture, you also get the chance to see contemporary art. The cluster of galleries in lovely grounds, are housed in a former army barrack base built in 1936.

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NEIGHBOURHOODS TO EXPLORE IN SINGAPORE

 

Singapore is a melting pot of different cultures which can be seen when you wander the city’s many neighbourhoods. Each district has its own distinct charm and character.

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22. DEMPSEY HILL

 

This former British Army Barracks constructed in the 1800’s has been transformed into a charming array of warehouse shops.

Take a walking trail to uncover its heritage highlights.

Follow this up with a wander around charming conservation buildings and admire antique furniture, art pieces and oriental handcrafted carpets.

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23. CHINATOWN

 

 

Early Chinatown was an ethnic enclave for Chinese Settlers. Get a glimpse of the past in the heritage district and the ornate fronted shophouses.

The earliest of the shophouses built between 1840- 1900, are characterised by their low, two-levelled plaster ornamentation.

Later, shophouses were built using steel and reinforced concrete. Now transformed, it is a great place to spend a day strolling up and down it’s narrow bustling streets which are lined with stalls.

Highlights include Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Sri Mariamman Temple.

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24. LITTLE INDIA

 

The narrow streets are vibrant, buzzing with Singapore’s Indian community. New businesses are interspersed with mosques and temples.

Discover the vibrant and cultural buildings of Little India as the scent of burning incense accompanies you.

 

Highlights include Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of Singapore’s oldest hindu temples, and Mustafa Centre open 24-hours for buying literally anything.

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25. KAMPONG GLAM

 

Originally a thriving fishing village, Kampong Glam, named after the Gelam Tree, now has a vibrant cultural scene.

 

The ethnically diverse neighbourhood is famed for its street art, hip cafes and market stalls among others.

Admire the Persian carpets and exquisite fabrics along Arab Street, before checking out the graffiti-lined lanes and Sultan Mosque.

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26. TIONG BAHRU

 

With its humble beginnings as a swamp, Tiong Bahru has surpassed itself. Singapore Improvement Trust (SIT) built the pre-war flats in the 1930s and 1940s.

 

Modelled in the Art Deco style of British Towns, the design is elegant and streamline

Moderne with curved lines. Since 2003, they earned conservation status and can be seen scattered around the neighbourhood.

Modern Tiong Bahru includes trendy cafes and eateries, an independent bookstore, lifestyle shop, hawker centre and temple.

Simply stroll around and uncover a hidden gem – to tourists at least!

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PLACES OF WORSHIP TO EXPLORE IN SINGAPORE

 

27. ST ANDREW’S CATHEDRAL

 

In the midst of a busy modern city, Singapore’s largest church is a welcome place for reflection. Walk around the peaceful interior taking time to look at the detail of the colourful stained glass.

Then head outside to admire its stunning English Gothic architecture in all its gleaming white glory.

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28. SRI MARIAMANN TEMPLE

 

Built by immigrants from districts of South India, the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore dates back to 1827 and is dedicated to Goddess Mariamman, known for her power to cure epidemic disease and illness.

 

The craftsmanship is inspiring whether you like the style or not and has six tiers which are covered in sculptures of mythological beasts, deities, figures and Sepoy soldiers.

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29. ARMENIAN CHURCH

 

This white Armenian neoclassical styled church, was the first Christian church built in Singapore in 1835.

Consecrated the following year, the small, elegant building has a vaulted ceiling and cupola, Doric columns and a tall spire.

Within the grounds you will find tombstones of Catchik Moses, founder of the Straits Times, and Agnes Joaquim, founder of the Vanda Miss Joaquim, Singapore’s national flower.

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30. KONG MENG SAN PHOR KARK SEE MONASTERY

 

With 12 buildings, Singapore’s largest Monastery shouldn’t be rushed. Housing a stunning array of shrines, pagodas and staircases, in several halls, it is easy to succumb to the silence.

Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting the monastery.

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31. SRI VEERAMAKALIAMMAN TEMPLE

 

This Hindu temple built in 1881, is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali, and sits atop blue pillars.

 

The exterior is vibrant in a multitude of colours and adhorned with religious statues. Take a peep inside to get two alternate views of the Hindu Goddess Kali, one peaceful the other not!!

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32. BUDDHA TOOTH RELIC TEMPLE

 

This 5-storey temple designed in the Tang style, houses an impressive array of sacred artefacts of the Buddha, including bone and tongue relics.

 

Immerse yourself in Buddhist culture as you study the extensive art and history collections. The temple’s name comes from what Buddhists regard as the Sacred Buddha Tooth Relic.

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33. SULTAN MOSQUE

 

This striking mosque holds a prominent position in Kampong Glam, serving as a focal point for the Muslim community.

 

Massive golden domes stand out from afar. The base of each one is decorated with donated glass bottle ends by poor Muslims. This ensures all Muslims were able to contribute to its construction.

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34. PAINTED MURAL AT THIAN HOCK KENG TEMPLE

 

Built between 1839 and 1842, this is Chinatown’s oldest Hokkien Temple. With symbolic features including stone lions to ward off evil spirits, it’s special feature is found outside.

Wrapped around the outside rear wall and depicting early Hokkien immigrants story, is a 44 m mural.

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FREE LIVE SHOWS & MUSIC IN SINGAPORE

 

Singapore is a city for all visitors whatever their budget. The island puts on regular free performances and shows for everyone’s enjoyment.

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35. GARDEN RHAPSODY LIGHT AND SOUND SHOW

 

The Supertrees are an amazing sight during the day. However, come evening and they become a magical sight.

The twice nightly light and sound show is free and no tickets are required. Come along, bag a great spot and prepare to be dazzled as the supertrees burst into an array of colour!

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36. BEAUTIFUL SUNDAY

 

A great opportunity for everyone to enjoy music performances in the grand Esplanade Concert Hall. Held on Sundays once a month, these free concerts showcase homegrown groups.

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37. RAIN VORTEX

 

Jewel is Changi Airport’s latest triumph with the waterfall its centre piece.

Rain Vortex, is the world’s tallest indoor waterfall standing at 40m. Come and marvel at the stunning water cascading down 7 storeys!

 

It is an enlightening sight during the day, but try and catch one of the light and sound shows.

Lasting 5 minutes, the waterfall is illuminated in time to music and will make you smile. (The Light & Sound Show is temporarily suspended until further notice)

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38. FREE CONCERTS AT THE ESPLANADE

 

Singapore’s premier performing arts centre is a bold and striking twin structure design.

 

The two rounded glass domes fitted with Aluminium sunshades resemble the local spiky Durian tropical fruit.

Alongside paid events are a collection of free performances and shows enabling every visitor to experience arts and music.

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39. SPECTRA LIGHT & WATER SHOW

 

This free nightly outdoor extravaganza is displayed over the water at the Event Plaza. Over 15 minutes fountain jets of water dance alongside colour lasers with a soothing symphony soundtrack in the background.

There is no tack here, just a truly impressive show!

** Suspended until further notice due to Covid restrictions **

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FESTIVALS & EVENTS

 

Singapore’s multicultural background means the city always has a cultural festival to celebrate. One of the best things to do in Singapore is time your visit with one of these colourful festivals!

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40. CHRISTMAS

 

Prepare for a Christmas wonderland as all Singaporeans get involved in the festive spirit. Orchard Street especially, is lit up extravagantly in a riot of colour and huge decorations. It certainly feels festive!

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41. CHINESE NEW YEAR

 

The most important event in the Chinese calendar, this is a great celebration. Chinatown is a blaze of colour with lights and lanterns, while performances jostle for space in the streets.

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42. DEEPAVALI

 

Little India is decked out with life-sized elephants, colourful art-forms, bright lights, oil lamps and vibrant aromas during this Hindu celebration.

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FREE SINGAPORE ATTRACTIONS

 

There are plenty of places to visit in Singapore for free, you just need to know where they are.

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43. KAMPONG LORONG BUANGKOK

 

Dating back to 1956, this may be Singapore’s last surviving village or kampong. This rustic village is in stark contrast to the modern city of today.

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44. HAW PAR VILLA

 

This theme park, formerly called Tiger Balm Park is certainly quirky. Take a stroll though the Ten Courts of Hell, showing Chinese Mythology’s take on hell.

 

There are statues from Chinese Folklore and Asian culture, history, philosophy and religion. It’s certainly different! 

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45. MERLION PARK

 

Created in 1972 by sculptor Lim Nang Seng, this original statue stands 8.6m in height, aligned to face East overlooking Singapore River.

 

An icon and tourism symbol, it has a lion head and fish body. The Merlion’s position allows you to pose for photos from different angles as water pours from it’s mouth.

Although you will see other merlions around the island, this is the most photographed.

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46. CATCH SUNSET FROM MARINA BARRAGE

 

Marina Barrage supplies around 10% of the country’s water supply, provides a flood control scheme and offers recreational facilities.

 

Choose your spot at dusk and watch the sun set and the city lights illuminating Singapore Flyer, Marina Bay Sands, Supertree Grove and skyline.

It is one of the most beautiful places in Singapore to be at nightime.

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47. CHECK OUT BRONZE SCULPTURES

 

Singapore has many beautifully crafted bronze structures. Strategically placed, they portray history, culture or aspiration for the future of the country.

 

As you stroll around different districts, keep your eyes peeled to find some beauties.

Standing by the side of the Singapore River and sponsored by United Overseas Bank Limited, this plump bird is a Fernando Botero creation.

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48. ENJOY VIEWS & A PICNIC AT ESPLANADE ROOF TERRACE

 

The roof terrace and garden is an ideal place to take in the city skyline.

In total contrast to the modern structure of the Esplanade twin domes, this is an escape to nature.

Enjoy unobstructed views of Marina Bay while relaxing with a drink in manicured lawns.

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49. HELIX BRIDGE

 

Completed in 2010 to a brief which requested a landmark structure with shade from direct sunlight and shelter from heavy rainfall.

 

This unique design is hailed as one of the country’s most celebrated architectural achievements.

Linking Marina Bay with the Esplanade, its double helix design represents human DNA or the rebirth & growth of Singapore. It’s one of Singapore’s fun places to check out, especially at night when lit by thousands of LED lights.

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50. HAVE FUN AT THE BEACH

 

Sentosa Island is connected to the mainland by road, cable car, monorail and pedestrian boardwalk.

 

Attractions are numerous and come at a cost. Many visitors look for free things to do in Sentosa. You can enjoy the views, Merlion and ambience by spending a day at the beach. A great free thing to do in Singapore that’s relaxing!

If you are looking for tranquility, head to palm-lined Tanjong Beach.

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51. FUTURISTIC ARCHITECTURE

 

Singapore has a magnificent skyline and is renowned for its quirky futuristic architecture.

Building design is innovative yet totally suited for purpose. Simply wander around the city and you will have a multitude of buildings to admire.

 

Reflections @ Keppel Bay is certainly one of the most interesting places in Singapore to view futuristic design.

Some less obvious ones are Chijmes at City Hall, The Interlace at Bukit Merah, Shophouses lining Amoy and Telok Ayer Streets and Fullerton Hotel.

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52. RAFFLES HOTEL

 

A truly iconic Hotel with class, refinement and elegance.

A stay at this recently refurbished resplendent palace may be off limits budget wise, but that shouldn’t stop you checking it out.

 

The lobby is kept for the eyes of paying guests and diners. But you can still admire the ivory Neo-Renaissance architecture, shop in the arcade and walk around the meticulously manicured grounds.

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FREE THINGS TO DO IN SINGAPORE CONCLUSION

 

This list of 52 free things to do in Singapore hopefully shows you that it is possible to visit this beautiful country on a budget.

With careful planning you can definitely see and experience some iconic landmarks and have a great time.

Before you go, make sure to check out our other posts for Singapore!

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READ MORE ABOUT SINGAPORE

• Why Visit Singapore This Year
• Ultimate Singapore Travel Guide For First Timers
• Astonishing Dos And Don’ts In Singapore You Need To Know
• Visit Singapore On A Budget
• Remarkably Easy 5 Day Singapore Itinerary You’ll Love
• Uncover Singapore Hidden Gems & Unique Things To Do
• Chinatown, Singapore : Best Things To Do In A Day
• Awesome Things To Do In Singapore At Night For Fun
• Visit Kusu Island, One Of Singapore’s Southern Islands
• How To Dress In Singapore And Look Great
• Where To Stay In Singapore

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