There’s plenty to see and do without burning a hole in your wallet in Singapore! Here are 10 budget-friendly activities in Singapore that are truly worth your time.
1. Relax on the white sandy beaches of Sentosa
Take advantage of the unlimited public bus rides that come with your Singapore Tourist Pass and catch bus 123 to Sentosa. Alight at Beach Station, then board the free Beach Shuttle, which runs from 9am to 10pm daily and connects you to all three of Sentosa’s stunning beaches.
At Palawan Beach, cross the iconic rope bridge to a small islet marked as the “Southernmost Point of Continental Asia”. Once there, climb the watchtower for sweeping panoramic views of the coastline and passing ships. It’s a great spot for photos and a unique vantage point you won’t find anywhere else in Singapore!
For thrill-seekers, Siloso Beach is the place to be. Work on your tan, people-watch, or unwind at one of the many themed beach bars. If you’re feeling adventurous, try surfing on a man-made wave, or go skim-boarding, kayaking, or stand-up paddling.
Tanjong Beach offers a quieter escape from the crowds. It’s ideal for relaxing with a book by day, and by night, it becomes beautifully romantic with twinkling lights from nearby ships.
Pro tip: Bring your own snacks and bottled water as beach bars can be pricey.
2. Stroll through Singapore Botanic Gardens
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Singapore’s most scenic and accessible green spaces, and best of all, entry is free. Wander the many themed gardens like Ginger Garden and Heliconia Walk or have a picnic on the lawn near the Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage. If you time your visit right, you might even catch a free weekend concert.
For family-friendly fun, head to the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, the first and biggest garden in Asia dedicated to children. This free-to-enter space features multiple play zones where kids can test their agility on log obstacles, find their way through a maze, or glide across the Flying Fox. Its standout attraction is the Waterplay Area, an immersive, interactive zone that lets children learn about the water cycle and other environmental processes through hands-on play.
While most of the gardens are free, the National Orchid Garden charges a small admission fee. It’s well worth it for its stunning collection of more than 1,000 orchid species and 2,000 hybrids, a true delight for any flower enthusiast.
3. Explore the wild side of Singapore at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
While Singapore is often seen as a sleek, modern concrete jungle, it still preserves pockets of raw, untamed nature and Sungei Buloh is a diamond in the rough. Located in the North, this tranquil sanctuary offers a rare glimpse into Singapore’s wild side, and entry is completely free. Explore the reserve via its network of marked trails, including the mangrove boardwalk, which lets you admire the lush mangroves without getting your feet muddy. You’ll also find five observation pods that offer unobstructed views of the wetlands and sea. Don’t miss Aaerie Tower, an 18-m high lookout that provides sweeping panoramas and makes for a fantastic photo spot.
As you wander through the reserve, keep an eye out for its vibrant wildlife. Mudskippers, monitor lizards, smooth-coated otters, and migratory birds are common sights. If you’re especially lucky, you might even spot an estuarine crocodile. For the best experience, visit early in the morning, when the animals are most active before the tropical heat sets in.
4. Get up close with nature in the Central Catchment Nature Reserve
With over 2,000 hectares of forest around MacRitchie Reservoir, the Central Catchment Nature Reserve is a real treat for nature-lovers or anyone looking for a break from the bustling city. Take the picturesque path and follow the trail to the TreeTop Walk, a 250m-long freestanding suspension bridge that connects the highest points of the reservoir, offering breathtaking views of nature and the waters of Upper Pierce Reservoir. Spot wild animals along the way like the Sunda Pangolin and Lesser Mousedeer if you’re lucky.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can extend your hike to the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve by following the signboards and even connect to the Green Corridor for a longer outdoor journey. Make sure to wear proper walking shoes and bring rain gear like ponchos and ziplock bags to put your electronics and other valuables, if rain is in the forecast. And don’t forget insect repellent, admission may be free, but the mosquitoes can be relentless. Risk becoming a snack yourself!
Photo by National Library Board
5. Visit the Central Library
For a quiet indoor escape, especially on a rainy day or for a quiet break from the afternoon heat, the Central Library in Bugis is a great place to unwind. Recently renovated and reopened in 2024, the new space features curated collections on Singapore’s culture, heritage, biodiversity, and sustainability. Admire the murals and enjoy a quiet escape from the tropical heat. Perfect for rainy days or a peaceful afternoon break.
Photo by Monster Day Tours
6. Join a free walking tour
One of the best ways to dive in Singapore’s rich history and culture is by joining a free walking tour. Monster Day Tours offers a variety of themed walks through heritage districts like Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam. The tours are led by passionate local guides who share quirky facts, personal stories, and deep insights into Singapore’s heritage.
If you’re only transiting through and have time to spare, at least three to four hours, you can also join one of Changi Airport’s free transit tours. These tours showcase cultural and modern highlights of the city. Both options provide an engaging and informative way to see more of Singapore without spending a cent.
7. Take a classic photo at Merlion Park
No visit to Singapore is complete without seeing the iconic Merlion, the half-lion, half-fish creature that symbolises the city. Located along the Marina Bay waterfront, Merlion Park offers fantastic views of the city skyline, including Marina Bay Sands, the Esplanade, and the Singapore Flyer.
It’s one of the most photographed spots in the country, and for good reason. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning one, a snapshot with the Merlion is a must!
8. Enjoy free performances at Esplanade Theatres on the Bay
Just a short walk from Merlion Park, the Esplanade is a cultural hub often referred to as “The Durian” because of its spiky architectural design. While the main performances here are ticketed, the venue also hosts a wide range of free events and performances throughout the year.
The Esplanade also boasts a rooftop garden with panoramic views of Marina Bay, a great bonus for visitors looking to take in the city without spending a dime.
Photo by CapitaLand Singapore
9. Window shop/Mall-hop at some of Singapore’s unique malls
It’s free, unless you shop! Mall-hopping and window shopping can be fun activities in themselves, especially with the variety of malls across the island. For a trendy, artsy vibe, check out New Bahru, a creative space filled with local brands and design-forward stores. VivoCity, Singapore’s largest mall, offers everything from fashion to food and entertainment, plus a rooftop water play area perfect for families with kids.
If you’re into treasure hunts, Mustafa Centre is a 24-hour mega-mall in Little India packed with quirky finds, electronics, and souvenirs. For bargain hunters, IMM Outlet Mall in Jurong is the place to find discounted goods from high-street and sportswear brands. Meanwhile, Bugis Street offers a completely different shopping experience, more like an indoor market than a mall, it’s known for its budget-friendly fashion, fried snacks, and affordable manicures.
10. Eat like a local at a hawker centre
While not entirely free, hawker centres are the best places to enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal on a tight budget. Many dishes cost under S$10, and you’ll find everything from chicken rice and laksa to roti prata and satay. Some hawker stalls are even Michelin-recognised, offering gourmet-level meals at street food prices.
There are hawker centres all over the island, many of which are easily accessible by public transport. If you’re unsure where to go, keep an eye out for local recommendations, or check out our guide to the best cheap eats near MRT stations.
Singapore may be known for its luxury and modernity, but it also offers a wealth of experiences for budget travellers. From cultural hotspots and nature trails to iconic landmarks and world-class food, you’ll find that some of the most rewarding things to do here are free or extremely affordable.
So whether you’re visiting on a shoestring budget or simply looking for value-packed activities, these ten ideas prove that you can explore Singapore without emptying your wallet, and still walk away with unforgettable memories.