Andrea Larice YapIt’s really no secret that Singapore is one of the most expensive cities in the world. According to 2022 Worldwide Cost of Living survey by The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), it’s also one of the most expensive cities to live in, following New York City. Despite posing as a destination for jetsetters and discerning tourists, it also offers a range of attractions and activities for budget travellers.
Want to skip the pricey spots on your trip to the Lion City? Hit up these places to visit in Singapore for free, instead!
Also, if you’re looking to enjoy comfortable (and budget-friendly) stays during your trip, book a room at Hotel 81, a winner of the TripZilla Excellence Awards 2023 – Best Budget Hotel (Singapore). With every stay, Hotel 81 offers comfortable rooms and awesome rates within convenient locations. It’s the perfect place to stay for travellers on the go, featuring 28 properties all across Singapore, conveniently situated around cultural hotspots and public transportation options.
Also read: 7 Tips for Travelling to Singapore on a Budget, According to Locals
Places to visit in Singapore for free
1. East Coast Park
Image credit: National Parks Board Official Facebook Page
If you’re seeking free entrance spots in Singapore, urban parks and green spaces are your best bets. Take for example, East Coast Park: a beloved recreational haven situated along a 15-kilometre sandy beach on the southeastern coast of the country. Its sprawling park and scenic shoreline provide a picturesque backdrop for a range of outdoor activities. Additionally, you’ll find various gardens, playgrounds, skate parks, cycling trails, and even dining spots to ensure there’s something for everyone.
Address: Along East Coast Parkway and East Coast Park Service Road, Singapore
2. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Image credit: Holiday Point; William Cho
Although Singapore is best loved for its modern metropolitan wonders, it also boasts diverse flora and fauna despite being a small city-state. Besides its lush urban parks, it also has nature reserves with a mission to preserve and protect the country’s natural heritage. Enter, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve!
Image credit: Singapore Tourism Board Official Website
Officially declared as an ASEAN Heritage Park, this 163-hectare wildlife sanctuary is home to Bukit Timah Hill, Singapore’s highest natural peak. Additionally, it houses one of the few remaining primary tropical rainforests in the country. Explore these and more as you journey through its winding hiking trails and biking routes.
Address: Hindhede Dr, Singapore 589318
3. Fort Canning Park
Image credit (L-R): National Parks Board Official Facebook Page; Kevin Han
Aside from being one of the top free attractions in Singapore for nature lovers, Fort Canning Park also stands as a famous historical landmark for history buffs. Originally a site for ancient palaces, which later served as the headquarters of the Far East Command Centre and British Army Barracks, it features tons of artefacts from the 14th century. Some of these historical traces include the iconic Fort Gate, Forbidden Spring, and Tree Tunnel, which have also become hotspots for photoshoots.
Address: Fort Canning Park River Valley Road Singapore 179037
Also read: Singapore MRT Guide: One Attraction Near Each Popular Station
4. Changi Point Coastal Walk
Image credit: alantankenghoe
A tranquil oasis where verdant foliage meets the calm waters of the coastline, Changi Point Coastal Walk offers an escape into one of Singapore’s lesser-known pockets of nature. Open 24 hours a day to the public for free, you can stroll along this continuous scenic path to catch the sunset or sunrise. In addition to its picturesque scenery, the coastal walk also features not just one, but six trails for you to discover!
Address: 6 Changi Village Rd, Singapore 509907
Also read: 18 Hidden Gems in Singapore You Need to Uncover
5. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
Image credit: National Parks Board Official Facebook Page
If you love bird-watching, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve will keep your eyes peeled! From September to March, the reserve becomes a warm home for migratory birds, making it a top attraction for a unique sightseeing experience. Keep an eye out for water snakes, lizards, and mudskippers across its mangroves, mudflats, ponds, and forests as well.
Image credit: National Parks Board Official Facebook Page
Fun fact: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is Singapore’s first-ever ASEAN Heritage Park!
Address: 301 Neo Tiew Cres, Singapore 718925
6. Singapore City Museum
Image credit: Urban Redevelopment Authority Official Website
On your hunt for a free museum in Singapore, don’t miss out on the city’s art and cultural centres! While not all museums in the city have free admission, there are a few places to visit in Singapore for free — like the Singapore City Museum. Here, discover how the city transformed from a fledgling nation in the ’60s to its current status as a thriving global hub. With its interactive exhibitions and displays, learning about Singapore’s history has never been more entertaining!
Address: 45 Maxwell Road, The URA Centre, Singapore 069118
Also read: 10 Best Art Museums and Galleries to Visit in Singapore
9. Gillman Barracks
Image credit: Singapore Tourism Board Official Website
Once a British military camp, Gillman Barracks has since been transformed into a vibrant contemporary arts cluster that art enthusiasts can’t miss. The conserved colonial barracks feature colonial buildings, each housing galleries showcasing local and international contemporary works.
With free admission to all the art spaces, a range of F&B options available, and interesting pop-up events happening all year round, what’s not to love? It’s absolutely perfect for those on the hunt for fun yet budget-friendly or free attractions in Singapore!
Address: 50 Kent Ridge Crescent, National University of Singapore, Singapore
Also read: 18 Unique Museums in Singapore You Have to Visit
10. Little India
Sir Veeramakaliamman Temple (left) and House of Tan Teng Niah (right) | Image credit (L-R): Yu Kato; Danish Soh
Stepping into Little India alone is already a feast for your senses! In this lively cultural enclave, you’ll find a mix of traditional restaurants, hip street art, and a myriad of other delights. A district rich in history, it carries with it a fascinating past that dates back to the 19th century. Some traces of its bygone era that remain to this day include: the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple; the Abdul Gaffoor Mosque; and the House of Tan Teng Niah, the last surviving Chinese villa in Little India.
Address: 60 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 229900
12. Haji Lane
Image credit: Bna Ignacio
Tucked away in the neighbourhood of Kampong Glam and just a short walk from Bugis Street, you’ll stumble upon the hip and bustling Haji Lane. It abounds in independent fashion boutiques, homegrown cafes, and vibrant murals adorning its back alleys and storefronts. While it may pose a challenge for shopaholics and hungry foodies alike, it beckons anyone looking for free attractions in Singapore to level up their Instagram feed!
Address: 21A Haji Lane, Singapore 189214
13. Alkaff Bridge
Image credit: The Wandering Angel
Speaking of Instagrammable, there’s also Alkaff Bridge. This iconic link stretches over the Singapore River and is recognised for its bold colours and playful design. It was built in 1997 and takes on a unique shape reminiscent of a tongkang: a native boat used for transporting goods.
Later, in 2004, Filipino artist Pacita Abad breathed new life into the structure by painting it with eye-catching patterns. Over the years, it has not only become a popular landmark in the country’s tourism and art scene, but a symbol of friendship between Singapore and the Philippines.
Address: 1 Havelock Road, Singapore 059724 Singapore
14. Henderson Waves Bridge
Image credit: Singapore Tourism Board Official Website
At a whopping 36 metres above Henderson Road, the Henderson Waves Bridge stands as the highest pedestrian bridge in all of Singapore. True to its name, its architectural design resembles a rippling wave made with steel arches and curved ribs. By sundown, visitors flock to this stunningly sophisticated spot for a leisurely stroll or to take in views of the city’s skyline.
Address: 221 Henderson Road Henderson Building, Singapore 159557
Also read: Which Singapore Tourist Attractions Are Actually Worth the Hype?
With our list of free attractions in Singapore, you’ll never run out of fun things to do on your vacation. And, since most of these don’t require you to spend, you won’t even have to go beyond your budget!
Know of other places to visit in Singapore for free? Tag us on your travel snapshots @tripzillamag with #TripZillaShare.
Facebook image credit (right): Lars Ling | Flickr
