Singapore is a popular destination in Asia, and it is well known due to its cultural melting pot with modern infrastructure, Michelin-star restaurants, and friendly locals.
Despite being a vibrant island city, there’s more to Singapore than just high-end shopping, restaurants, and hotels, even though the country’s well-known reputation is a playground for the wealthy.
There is plenty of things to do in Singapore without spending a penny that is as fun as the ones you’d do spending your hard-earned money around. From world-class malls to exciting theme parks, charming neighbourhoods, romantic date spots, and family-friendly attractions, we’ve come up with a checklist to ensure you get all the little red dot has to offer.
However, keep in mind that this is by no means that our list of best things to do in Singapore on a budget is not exhaustive. There is a tonne of other fun and free activities to do in the area, but these are some of the best.
1. Gardens By The Bay
The world-class garden design at Gardens by the Bay is not something you would want to skip since it’s the greenest of free attractions in Singapore. By following its specific schedule and visiting between 5 a.m. and 2 a.m. to enjoy most of the garden’s beautiful view for free.
There are numerous free activities to do at the Garden Bays, including strolling along Dragonfly and Kingfisher Lake, exploring the rich history of Singapore at Heritage Gardens, and appreciating the beautiful scenery at the Sun Pavillion.
However, the free admission is free to only a few gardens, and there is a small fee to enter the flower dome, cloud forest, and supertree observatory. Also, while you are there, don’t miss the Garden Rhapsody Light Show, where you can watch the supertrees “dance” for no cost.
2. Live Music At Esplanade
Of all the free things to do in Singapore, Esplanade is the perfect location for musical souls. Esplanade is a famous gathering spot for those who share a passion for the arts and a kindred soul. Besides admiring the unique durian-shaped buildings, you can catch world-class performances, theatres and live concerts.
Though there are paid concerts by high-profile artists, there are also plenty of options for music lovers that are free as well.
With endless performances and dance routines, you will never be bored at Esplanade. This place will make you feel alive with all the singing, performing and music. Don’t miss out on Esplanade Roof Garden and Music Library, which are, of course, free too.
3. Changi Airport
Don’t miss out on seeing one of Asia’s best and busiest airports either after your arrival or before your flight departure. The world-class aviation hub has become a famous tourist destination, and rightfully so.
The greenery at the airport creates the perfect ambience where you can relax and stretch your legs after a long flight. Over here, you may enjoy lots of free attractions without spending a dime, such as the luxurious Jewel Changi Airport, the HSBC Rain Vortex, and a 40-meter-tall indoor waterfall surrounded by more than 2,000 plants. You can also taste the delicious and famous local cuisine here if you’re willing to spend a few dollars.
4. Singapore Symphony Orchestra
If orchestra concerts are something that you have always wanted to attend but never could because of the ticket prices, now is your chance as you can listen to the Singapore Symphony Orchestra at their free concerts. The flagship orchestra of Singapore holds free concerts once in a while as a part of the community outreach programme in different halls, institutions and other locations.
Try to arrive early for the show, and feel free to bring a picnic if you like. If you are interested in attending one of the orchestra concerts, you can check their official website for the date and time. (https://www.sso.org.sg/free-concerts)
5. Singapore Botanic Gardens
If you’re looking for a place to relax in nature, the Singapore Botanic Gardens are a great option. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015, and its the first and only tropical botanic garden on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
Aside from that, the famous National Orchid Garden can be found within the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Over here, you will discover more than 1,000 species of orchids and 2,000 hybrids, making this the world’s largest exhibit of tropical orchids. In addition, You can also spot many beautiful birds here, including pied hornbills, spotted wood owls, crimson sunbirds, stork-billed kingfishers, geese, ducks, and black swans. Aside from that, the Botanic Garden also is a tranquil oasis within the city limits thanks to its lush green lawns, magnificent ponds, and well-pruned garden paths.
The best part about the Singapore Botanic Garden is that it has free admission entry, making it a must-go list for you.
