While Singapore may be one of the most dynamic cities in Southeast Asia, a lot of its tourist attractions carry with them a hefty price tag. In a country known for extravagance, is there anything fun and enjoyable in Singapore that can be done for little to no cost? After visiting the country for six days, I can confidently say that yes, there are landmarks, attractions, and experiences that one can do for free. So whether you’re a backpacker looking to see the country on the cheap or you’re a traveler wanting to extend your dollar, here are some free things to do in Singapore.
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The Districts of Singapore
Singapore is known for its various districts that exude character and charm. Whether that be the Art Deco buildings of Tiong Bahru or the grand temples of Chinatown, you could spend days exploring each neighborhood and all their quirks without getting bored. The districts all have their own unique history and sights to see, and I recommend exploring five of them on your Singapore travels: Chinatown, Little India, Kampong Glam, Tiong Bahru, and Joo Chiat.
Each has their own unique offerings, such as temples, shops, restaurants, hawker centers, street art, and much more. Half the fun of visiting these districts is just walking around, soaking up the atmosphere and people-watching. It’ll cost you nothing to go around, window shop at some stores, and maybe get a bite to eat at a hawker center. It’s also worth noting that you may enter the temples for free, so that is another thing you can enjoy and do for free in Singapore.
Gardens by the Bay
You’ve probably seen pictures of these grand tree-like structures that stretch towards the sky, but did you know that it’ll cost you nothing to see them? While the nearby Cloud Forest and Flower Dome have entrance fees, the Supertree Grove (Supertrees are what they call those things) has no entrance fee and is open from 5am to 2am. If you’re in the area at night, you can also see the Garden Rhapsody, a multimedia show where the Supertrees light up with thousands of sparkling lights synchronized to a spellbinding musical score. The show even changes depending on the season, and I was lucky enough to catch a Christmas version of the show. The Supertree Grove is a must-do that should be in every Singapore itinerary.
Marina Bay Sands and Spectra
If someone thinks of Singapore, one mental image that pops in their head is that of the Marina Bay Sands. This huge, imposing hotel anchors the south side of Singapore. The attached Shoppes has a lot of big name brands that make it the perfect window shopping destination. Outside the Shoppes is the marina area and, at night, just like in the Supertree grove, a fountain and lights show called Spectra dazzles visitors with its synchronized water and lighting effects. It’s the perfect way to end your day in Singapore, and you won’t have to pay a single penny to see it.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
Singapore’s one and only UNESCO Heritage Site, this sprawling garden complex is free to enter and incredibly fun to get lost in. Surround yourself with flora from around the world and see some of the local wildlife as you make your way through the park. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some adorable otters. This 82-hectare park packs enough sites to keep you occupied for hours. Depending on the season there could be special events and exhibitions throughout the gardens too. A bonus sight to see are the locals exercising or taking a leisurely stroll through the gardens. If you’re a fan of people-watching, this place is for you!
Jewel Changi
Sometimes I even forget that this place is an airport. The Jewel Changi, located opposite Terminal 1, is a feat of engineering and a modern design marvel. Featuring the rain vortex, the largest indoor waterfall in the world, this shopping and dining complex needs to be seen to be believed. Admire the waterfall and take pictures anywhere throughout its five floors. At the topmost floor, enjoy some activities (for an extra fee) such as play areas, rope courses, and a glass bridge. But the main attraction, the rain vortex, is free of charge.
And there you have it! Those are some free things to do in Singapore! Are you headed to Singapore soon? Or have you been to Singapore recently and have recommendations for free things to do? Comment down below!
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