The Best Free Attractions In Singapore

Explore Singapore on the cheap with our guide to the best freebies in the city.

 

1. Chinatown

 

This ethic enclave of early Chinese settlers is the favorite haunt for Singaporeans for cheap eats and buys. A little touristy, but Chinatown still retains a strong sense of history and vitality. Take an afternoon stroll and admire the traditional shop houses with fanciful facades that line the street of Chinatown.

 

2. Temples, Churches & Mosques

 

Explore the  exquisite craftsmanship in the Thian Hock Kheng Temple at Telok Ayer, Sri Mariammam Temple at Chinatown and Sultan Mosque at Kampong Glam.  St Andrew’s Cathedral, Singapore’s largest church and the Armenian Church, Singapore’s smallest and oldest (built in 1836) church are worth visiting too. Entrance is free.

 

3. Singapore River

 

Trace Singapore history by taking a stroll along the river. Start from Raffles Place and head towards Clarke Quay and enjoy the contrast between old shophouses and towering skyscrapers.

 

4. Posing with the Merlion and stroll on Marina Bay Boardwalk

 

The Merlion is a 8.6 metre tall statue with a lion’s head and a fish’s body. It symbolizes Singapore’s founding legend and its identity as a port. Pose for a photo with the Merlion before taking a leisure walk around Marina Bay for more free scenic sights.

 

5. Arts at the Esplanade

 

The famous durian-shaped icon of Singapore always has something ‘free’ to offer - art exhibitions, live concerts or theatrical performances. The Esplanade hosts free short films, exhibitions and music festivals.

 

6. The Botanic Gardens

 

The Botanic Gardens hosts excellent free open-air concerts. Bring a mat and a picnic basket and enjoy the music.

 

7. Gardens by the Bay

 

The latest and most distinct addition to the Singapore skyline. Gardens by the Bay is no normal garden. It is an urban oasis with high-tech “Supertrees” that play music in the evenings.  All you need to do is to sit back and relax while being awed by the splendor of Marina Bay Sands.

 

8. Sentosa

 

Enjoy free attractions like an open-top double-decker bus ride, the Animal & Bird Encounters and sun-tanning on Sentosa's pristine beaches. Get into Resorts World Sentosa free by boarding the shuttle provided by Universal Studios Singapore at hotels along Orchard Road or Bencoolen/Marina area.

 

9. Festive Celebrations and Spectacular Fireworks

 

The best time to visit Singapore is undoubtedly during a festival. There are free events and activities galore. On NYE or Singapore’s National Day on August 9th, you get to see fantastic fireworks at Marina Bay.

 

10. Roaming in Pulau Ubin

 

Nature lovers will love Pulau Ubin - a rustic island of Singapore. It is like taking a trip back in time as rural villages still exist there. Visit the unique Chek Jawa (free entrance) - a massive wetlands that is home to corals, fish and other marine life.

 

11. Be inspired at Gillman Barracks

 

Gillman Barracks is Singapore’s latest contemporary arts venue. This former army camp houses 13 galleries in colonial-era buildings. Entrance is free.

 

12. Journey to Haw Par Villa

 

Into Chinese legends and mythology? Then visit Haw Par Villa, a colourful theme park where more than 150 dioramas depict scenes from famous Chinese stories.