Singapore may have a reputation as one of the most expensive cities in the world but many of the best things to do and see in Singapore are actually free! Here are our top picks for the best free things to do in Singapore:

Best Free Things To Do In Singapore

Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay is a relatively new attraction (opened in 2012) but has quickly become a crowd favorite. The sprawling gardens feature a variety of flora, an impressive waterfront view and an eco-friendly mission. One of the biggest draws for visitors are the iconic tree-shaped vertical gardens known as Supertree Grove. Measuring 25 to 50 meters tall, the Supertrees are rather hard to miss. Make time to visit at night and you won’t be disappointed. Every night, a delightful light and sound show known as Garden Rhapsody brings the trees to life.

Keep in mind that visiting the outdoor gardens, including the Supertree Grove is free. However, there is a fee to enter the OCBC Skyway (an elevated walkway between two Supertrees) and to enter the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome conservatories. Here is the Gardens By the Bay official website for more information.

Tip: Try to time your visit to catch the free Garden Rhapsody light and sound show at 7.45pm and 8.45pm nightly.

Marina Bay Sands

The Marina Bay Sands is a huge complex housing The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands mall, a casino, hotel, museum, theaters and restaurants. Although exploring the complex and window shopping is free, the view from the top will cost you an entry fee for the observation deck at SkyPark or the price of a drink at CE LA VI bar (formerly Ku De Ta). A dip at the iconic infinity pool is also out of the question, unless you are a paying guest at the pricey hotel. Here is the link to the Marina Bay Sands official website for more information.

Tip: Time your visit to watch the free Spectra light and water show – the nightly show lasts 15 minutes and starts at 8pm & 9pm (with an additional show at 10pm on the weekends). Grab a spot in front of the Louis Vuitton store for the best place to view the show.

Helix Bridge

The Helix Bridge is a pedestrian bridge located in the Marina Bay area. This bridge is unique for having a ‘double-helix’ structure inspired by DNA structure. Viewing platforms are placed at strategic points to stop and take in the Singapore skyline. The Helix bridge is best experienced at night when it is illuminated. While I would not go out of my way to walk on the bridge, it conveniently connects Marina Bay Sands to the promenade and does make for a pleasant walk.

Waterfront Promenade

I am always a fan of a good waterfront promenade. This promenade offers great views plus a very nice walk. Popular with walkers, runner, bikers, etc, choose your mode of transportation and take in the city and harbor views. If walking from the Marina Bay Sands, cross the Helix Bridge and walk along the waterfront to reach the Merlion.

The Merlion

The Merlion is a statue with the head of a lion and the body of a fish. Water spouts from the statue’s mouth so tourists gleefully take creative and campy photos by appropriately positioning themselves. The Merlion is one of Singapore’s most famous icons and although touristy, it does have a great view of the harbor and Marina Bay Sands complex.

Singapore Botanic Gardens

Singapore’s oldest garden is a good choice for anyone interested in escaping the city without really going far. The Singapore Botanic Gardens are not just a regular ol’ garden though. They have the honor of being listed as the first and only tropical garden on the UNESCO World Heritage Site (Singapore’s first listing). Whether stopping by to check out the sprawling grounds or the locals working out, you’ll have plenty of time as the gardens are open from 5 am to 12 midnight daily.

Note that even though the Singapore Botanic Gardens are free, there is a small fee to enter the National Orchid Garden.

Explore Singapore’s ethnic neighborhoods

Singapore has a few well known ethnic neighborhoods that are certainly worth a visit.

Little India

Our first visit to Little India was early in the morning during the Thaipusam festival. While that is not an everyday occurrence, Little India is vibrant and full of activity day and night. In addition to the interesting shops, highlights include Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple and the 24 hour Mustafa Center. Here is the link to the official website for more information on events and attractions in Little India.

Kampong Glam

Kampong Glam, the traditional Malay-Muslim quarter of Singapore, is now an eclectic and trendy area. Start from the Sultan Mosque and wander the many side streets filled with quirky shops, hip cafes and even traditional wares. Make sure to hit Haji Lane if you enjoy street art.

Chinatown

Singapore’s bustling Chinatown is a nice mix of old and new. A popular area for eating and shopping, it is home to one of the best known hawker centers, Maxwell Food Centre. While obviously not free, this the place to eat if you are on a budget. Chinatown tourist attractions to check out include the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, Chinatown Heritage Center, Sri Mariamman Temple and Tian Hock Keng. Also, a free walking tour with free food tasting runs weekly. Here is the link to the Chinatown official website for more information.

Singapore’s Changi Airport 

Singapore’s Changi Airport is a destination in itself and is consistently voted as the best airport in the world. Some free things to do at the airport include watching a movie at the free theatre and enjoying the butterfly garden,  If you are just passing through Singapore and have a long layover, there are even free city tours from the airport.

There are many more things to do in Singapore for free but these are our top picks for first time visitors.

Looking for more things to do in Singapore? Here is our itinerary for 3 days in Singapore.for more things to do in Singapore on any budget.
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