Singapore boasts a huge range of attractions at a range of price points. But as a budget traveller in ‘Asia’s Most Expensive City’, I know how important free entertainment is in helping your budget stretch further. Luckily, the Lion City doesn’t scrimp in this area. Below is a list of my favourite ways to spend time in Singapore without spending a single dollar. Plus, several of these sights feature in my 5 Day Singapore Itinerary.
Rhapsodise at Gardens By The Bay
One of Singapore’s main tourist attractions, Gardens By The Bay is home to the popular Cloud Forest, Supertrees and Flower Dome. The iconic Garden Rhapsody performance takes place every day at 7:45pm and 8:45pm and is a must-see. But don’t miss some of the lesser known highlights too, such as Kingfisher Wetlands and the 200+ sculptures around the park, including my personal favourite – ‘Planet’.
Walk the Marina Bay loop
Home to the unique Marina Bay Sands hotel, you can walk the entire marina loop in around 1 – 1.5 hours. The route takes in many of Singapore’s most photographed sights, including ArtScience Museum, Helix Bridge and the Merlion. Plus you’ll have the opportunity to catch the nightly Spectra Light & Water Show.
Stop and smell the roses in Botanic Gardens
Open everyday, this 165-year old tropical garden and UNESCO World Heritage Site has it all – lakes, gardens, museums and restaurants. There are so many themed gardens to choose from. The Evolution Garden is a highlight – a journey through time featuring landscapes representing the beginnings of life on Earth to today.
Take in the views at Fort Canning Park
Sitting atop a hill overlooking the historical Civic District, Fort Canning Park is home to a Sculpture Garden, Spice Garden and underground former military complex. In the summer months, you can catch a Shakespeare In The Park or Ballet Under The Stars on the lawns.
Defend the island at Fort Siloso
Perched on the western point of Sentosa Island, Fort Siloso is a hotspot for history buffs. With interactive exhibits, the museum here details Fort Siloso’s major role in defending Singapore during the Second World War and has some great views over the Singapore Strait.
Enjoy Haw Par Villa’s offbeat offering
The brainchild of Aw Boon Haw, inventor of Tiger Balm, Haw Par Villa is Singapore’s largest outdoor art gallery. Be entertained by the unusual dioramas of Chinese mythology – a unique attraction like none other. Bring a hat and water on sunny days, there’s little shade here!
