14 Free Things To Do In Singapore And Have Fun Too

Though Singapore can be hard on one's pocket, it does not mean budget travellers can't have fun! Here are a few free things to do in Singapore and have fun too.

Though Singapore can be hard on one’s pocket, it does not mean budget travellers can’t have fun! Here are a few free things to do in Singapore and have fun too.

A paradise in South East Asia, the cleanest, safest and also one of the costliest places in the world to visit; if you are planning a visit to Singapore on a budget, it does not mean you miss out on fun things. There are plenty of things that you can take benefit of and I am going to share with you how it is possible to enjoy this wonderful island nation-FREE!

Here is a list I have made of all things free, that Singapore has to offer. Read on and enjoy.

The Fountain of Wealth

It is one of the largest outdoors fountains in the world. Located in the famous mall called Suntec City (don’t forget to visit the mall), it is a fun experience to first make a wish and then walk thrice around the base of the fountain. At night, you can watch the spectacular laser light and music show (admission is free).

Merlion

You cannot and should not miss  seeing the national icon of Singapore; with the head of a lion and the body of a fish. It is located at Marina Bay Waterfront and very easy to spot as you will see tourists walking towards it and  flocking this area, taking pictures and selfies in different poses. It is a great place to spend your time and capture wonderful pictures of yourself with the backdrop of the Merlion, the seafront and the skyscrapers (there is no admission fee).

Esplanade (Theatres on the Bay)

Visitors can come here and enjoy some daily non-ticketed performances as well as music, theatre, dance and visual art programmes all year round.

Free Laser Show

South East Asia’s biggest light, sound and water show against the skyline of Singapore is free of charge and an absolute must-see. You will find a huge crowd for this event; so make sure you reach early, to get the best seats (on the steps). You can enjoy this dazzling visual effect just outside the posh Marina Bay Sands hotel.

Botanic Gardens

There is no charge for entering the beautiful Botanic Gardens (except the Orchid gardens within). You can spend an entire day strolling leisurely in the Tropical rainforest, Evolution garden, Ginger garden, Sun garden, Jacob Ballas Children’s garden(which has a playground, a mini water play area , a delightful tree-house with slides and a maze) Symphony lake, Eco lake and Swan lake.

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Gardens by the Bay (outdoor)

Access to the outdoor gardens in Bay South and the Children’s garden is free. You can walk along the Supertree Grove, which are up to 16 storeys in height .At night; there is a remarkable laser light and music show (10 min) which is free for everyone.

Do go to the heritage gardens outdoors where you will see a collection of themed gardens-Indian, Chinese, Malay and Colonial. There is something for the kids too- the  children’s garden which has a playground, a water play area and rainforest tree houses.

Chinese Gardens

Entry to these gardens are absolutely free (except during colourful Chinese New Year celebrations). The gardens have splendid landscaping and architecture and offer you a chance to see some majestic pagodas. You can relax in the tranquil environment with rocks and streams.

Free parks

Some of the parks with free entrance are-

Fort Canning park– A place of historical importance (Battle box), has scenic views, walking trails, the spice garden and the sculpture garden.

East Coast Park– It has a beachside location, facilities for water sports, tennis, bowling, sand play area, tai chi corner, a jogging and cycling track.

Esplanade Park– It is located in the heart of downtown, has many historical landmarks like Queen Elizabeth walk, The Indian National Army Monument, Tan Kim Seng fountain and the Lim Bo Seng Memorial.

Free entry in Hindu temple

The Shri Mariamman temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore and is one of the major free tourist attraction located in China Town. The temple is richly embellished with sculptures of Hindu deities in a variety of brilliant colours.You can spend some quiet time praying or meditating in the cool confines of this holy place.

Buddhist Tooth relic temple

This spectacular intricately designed temple with its admirable interiors is extremely impressive. It is open to all and is located very close (walking distance) to the Hindu temple right in the heart of China Town.

Marina Barrage

It is a free to view dam, built to create the city’s water reservoir. It provides a connection between Gardens by the Bay South to Gardens by the Bay East. You can spend an entire evening walking along the promenade with lush lawns and get impressive views of Singapore skyline and straits. Visitors are free to play, picnic or simply relax on the open recreational space. It offers a panoramic view of the cityscape and an unobstructed view of the South China Sea, the harbour and cruise ships. There is also a free water play area for children.

Free things on Sentosa Island

No trip to Singapore would ever be complete without a trip to Sentosa Island. You can travel free within the Island on the Sentosa Bus Express and the Beach trams. There is a Sentosa nature walk which goes through a rainforest. There is free entrance all day, but the best time to walk is before the sun gets overhead. Festive Walk is another free of charge attraction where you can see a unique musical performance called Lake of Dreams and also the Crane Dance, which is a display of light, sound, water jets and pyrotechnic effects. One can also see the other legendary giant Merlion (from outside) on Sentosa. You can get fabulous views of the sea from Mount Imbiah. You can explore and enjoy free beaches like Siloso, Palawan and Tanjong.

Food browsing

This city is a food paradise and the array of food you see is just mind-boggling. Early mornings are the best to  stroll and visit  the Wet market or the Food Junctions located in the high-end malls. The assortment of local, authentic food and drink on display, the aromas, watching people enjoy an array of traditional meals at all times of the day will not just give you a visual treat but a culinary shock as well. It is well worth the visit.

Freebies at Changi Airport

If you are in transit or have some extra time before your departure, you can enjoy some freebies at one of the best airports of the world- rest in comfy lounge chairs in the rest areas, pamper your feet with free (machine) foot massages, watch colourful butterflies in the butterfly garden, enjoy the orchid, fern, cactus and sunflower gardens, browse the internet, access free wifi and laptop usb ports. You can also choose hang out at the 3D electronic zone and the Science centre, try your hand at art at the Changi Interactive Art Centre or even watch free movies in the movie theatres in each terminal.

And that’s not all. If you have  5 -6 hours to spare before your departure, you can join in the free 2.5 hour  guided city tour. Unbelievable isn’t it?

I have been fortunate to visit this outstanding city on more than one occasion. I hope you have or will visit someday. I am reminded of a famous song from an old Hindi movie. It’s called “Jeevan Mein Ek Baar Aana Singapore” (when translated it means: You must visit Singapore at least once in your lifetime) That is so true. Goodbye, Singapore. Till we meet again!

Singapore image via Shutterstock

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