Most expensive city in the world or not, you should be able to explore the city freely, quite literally. Here’s how to enjoy Singapore city for free.
We love our local food, cafe-hopping, novelty lattes, and cracking a cold one at the end of the day. But nothing is free and these things cost money. With Singapore’s reputation as one of the world’s most expensive cities in the world, we want to show that you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy Singapore… or anything for that matter.
Be a tourist for a day
All the hustle in the city can make you feel a little jaded about life so it’s important to see Singapore in a new light sometimes. Step into some touristy shoes and go exploring… and for free! From the big-time tourists spots (yup, a trip to the Merlion is due), Instagrammable places in Singapore that might require to make the trek to Chinese Gardens way out West, heritage monuments to world-known weird attractions in Singapore that might require to take a trip through hell…
Go museum-hopping
As a booming cultural hub, Singapore definitely has all the state-of-the-art museums, galleries and the coolest exhibitions in town. Over the years, we’ve attracted lots of inspiring art pieces and big-name museum exhibitions, from the recent display of the Impressionists to the unforgettable Yayoi Kusama’s exhibit at the National Gallery Singapore. The best part? Most of these museums offer free admission to locals and permanent residents.
Take a hike
Tired of the city grind? Be one with nature and soak up scenic views at the many walking trails in Singapore. Our favourite hiking route is none other than the Southern Ridges trail, which is made up of a 10km trail, panoramic views and plenty of lush foliage for you to breathe in fresh air. The cost to access all this nature? Absolutely free.
Volunteer as tribute
Make your day brighter by helping out those in need. Whatever your choice of charity may be – poverty, animal welfare, or gender equality – there are plenty of volunteering opportunities in Singapore where you can earn karma points and have tons of fun.
Explore Singapore on wheels
Sure, Singapore’s a tiny city, but that doesn’t mean we’re always keen on walking to our next destination – and who fancies being packed in like sardines on the train or bus? On weekends, our preferred mode is bicycle. Right now we’re a fan of Singapore’s bike-sharing services– Saturdays and Sundays you’ll typically score free rides all day, or promotions during happy hour. Check out these bike trails throughout the city to get you started…
Picnic in the park
Perpetually sunny weather and azure blue skies are the perfect excuse to pack up that picnic basket and spend a lazy day in the park. Pack a picnic basket with all the kitchen essentials you already have, or if that proves too much of a fuss, order in with the help of gourmet delivery services like Deliveroo, and Ubereats. Head to Coney Island’s secret beach if you’re looking to get away from the crowds, or if you’re stuck in the city? We’ve got lots of pockets of green around town.
Stargazing in Singapore
Brightly lit Singapore isn’t exactly ideal for stargazing. But with the help of sophisticated telescopes at the Singapore Science Center’s Observatory, you’ll be able to see the brilliant constellations that watch over the lion city. Its winning location next to the Equator allows viewers to view constellations in both the northern and southern hemispheres.
The Observatory (Omni-Theatre Building), 15 Science Centre Road, Singapore 609081, Every Friday night 7.50–10pm.
Visit haunted places (if you dare!)
Superstitions and the supernatural will always be a part of Singapore culture. If you want more than your walk in the park, Singapore’s known to have quite a handful of spooky places around the island. Some require you to take quite a trip so that’ll keep you on your feet (and toes!). As a treat, we’ve compiled some of the most haunted places in Singapore, from derelict buildings to old hospitals. It’s not one for the scaredy cats, but feel free to explore these spooky spots only if you dare!
Catch a concert
You don’t have to shell out hundreds of dollars to catch a live performance. Performing arts venue Esplanade regularly hosts awesome acts by local talents every weekend. The shows, which are usually held at the stunning waterfront theatre or indoor concourse space, ranges from classical folk music to soulful jazz.
Go on a photo trail of Singapore architecture
We’ve got plenty of photo opportunities around the city, from the Instagram-worthy spots to keeping it real in the neighbourhood with HDB flats and dragon playgrounds. If you haven’t looked around you, Singapore is definitely the experimental playground for architects. We’ve got the standard glass-and-concrete skyscrapers, Brutalist architecture, ornamental Chinese sculpture parks, colonial bungalows and pretty shophouses, it’s time to really look at them again. Bring your spiffy new camera!
Like this story? Here’s more we think you’ll enjoy:
Always ready for a photo op in Singapore at these spots
See the real Singapore through these photographs
Out exploring the town? You’ll need a camera for that
Our favourite nature trails around Singapore
