Discover Best Free Things To Do in Singapore and Make the Most of Your Trip

Singapore dazzles visitors with its spectacular skyline, spotless streets, and multicultural charm. But this small island nation also carries a reputation for being expensive. The good news?

From spectacular light shows to vast gardens, cultural districts, and pristine beaches, there are plenty of free things to do in Singapore that showcase the city’s unique character without emptying your wallet.

1. Marvel at Gardens by the Bay’s Outdoor Gardens & Supertree Grove

The outdoor areas of Gardens by the Bay offer some of the most striking landscapes in Singapore, completely free of charge. The famous Supertree Grove features 12 towering vertical gardens that reach up to 50 meters tall. These metal structures are covered with over 200 species of plants and equipped with photovoltaic cells that collect solar energy.

Location: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953 (Marina Bay area)

Timings: 5:00 AM to 2:00 AM, Daily

Highlights:

• Supertree Grove, iconic vertical gardens up to 50 meters tall

• Garden Rhapsody, free light and sound show at 7:45 PM & 8:45 PM daily

• Dragonfly Lake, serene water feature with lush surroundings

• Heritage Gardens, showcasing diverse cultural landscapes

• World of Plants, themed zones with unique tropical flora

Tips for Visitors:

• Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds

• Early morning (5:00 AM onwards) or evening visits help you escape Singapore’s heat

• The free Garden Rhapsody light show

• Bring water and wear comfortable shoes

• While the outdoor areas are free, the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome require paid tickets

Also Read: Complete Guide on Singapore Visa For Indians

2. Watch the Spectra Light & Water Show at Marina Bay Sands

The Spectra light and water show is one of the most popular free things to do in Singapore at night. This captivating 15-minute spectacle combines fountains, music, lasers, and visual projections against the backdrop of the city skyline.

Location: Event Plaza at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956

Timings:

• 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM, Sunday to Thursday

• 8:00 PM, 9:00 PM, and 10:00 PM, Friday and Saturday

Highlights:

• 15-meter water jets, synchronized with music and lights

• Laser and visual projections, set against the Marina Bay skyline

• Original score, inspired by Singapore’s multicultural roots

• Free nightly shows, multiple timings including a late show on weekends

Tips for Visitors:

• Arrive 15-20 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot

• The best viewing locations are along the Event Plaza promenade

• This is one of the most popular free things to do in Singapore at night

• Combine with a stroll along Marina Bay waterfront

• Show may be cancelled during heavy rain or thunderstorms

Also Read: List of Must Visit Temples in Singapore

3. Explore the Singapore Botanic Gardens (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Singapore Botanic Gardens is the country’s first and only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Established in 1859, these lush gardens span 82 hectares and house over 10,000 species of plants. Most areas of this tropical paradise are completely free to visit. This is one of the most peaceful free outdoor activities in Singapore

Location: 1 Cluny Road, Singapore 259569

Timings: 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM, Daily

Highlights:

• Palm Valley, open lawns flanked by palm trees

• Symphony Lake, venue for occasional free concerts

• Healing Garden and Fragrant Garden, themed for sensory experience

• Evolution Garden, showcasing the history of plant life

• Learning Forest and Eco-Lake, educational and ecological highlights

Tips for Visitors:

• Early morning visits (5:00 AM-8:00 AM) let you see locals practicing tai chi and avoid the heat

• The National Orchid Garden within the Botanic Gardens is the only section that requires an entrance fee (15 SGD)

• Bring water, hat, and sunscreen

• Pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawns

4. Take a Self-Guided Street Art Walk in Haji Lane & Kampong Glam

Haji Lane and the wider Kampong Glam district form Singapore’s vibrant Arab Quarter. This colorful neighborhood features narrow streets lined with boutique shops, Middle Eastern cafes, and walls adorned with eye-catching murals.

Location: Kampong Glam district (centered around Haji Lane and Arab Street)

Timings: Open 24 hours

Highlights:

• Street art and murals, created by local artists

• Colorful shophouses, showcasing unique architectural styles

• Sultan Mosque (Masjid Sultan), Singapore’s largest mosque

• Vintage boutiques, offering indie fashion and retro finds

• Middle Eastern cafes, with shisha and authentic cuisine

Tips for Visitors:

• This area offers excellent photo opportunities for Instagram

• Morning visits mean fewer crowds and better lighting for photos

• Combine with a visit to Sultan Mosque (free entry; modest dress required)

• Many shops open around 11:00 AM and close late

• This walkable district is perfect for free walking tours in Singapore

5. Relax on Sentosa’s Palawan Beach

Singapore might be a city-state, but it doesn’t lack beautiful beaches. Palawan Beach on Sentosa Island offers soft white sand, calm waters, and a relaxing coastal atmosphere completely free of charge.

Location: Sentosa Island

Timings: Open 24 hours

Highlights:

• Soft white sand, perfect for sunbathing or relaxing

• Calm, shallow waters, ideal for families

• Suspension bridge, to the Southernmost Point of Continental Asia

• Palm tree shade, for natural cover

• Free beach chairs, available on a first-come, first-served basis

Tips for Visitors:

• While beach access is free, getting to Sentosa has costs unless you take the free option: walking across the Sentosa Boardwalk from VivoCity mall (often free during promotional periods)

• Bring your own food and drinks to save money

• Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds

• Basic shower facilities are available

• This is one of the most accessible free beaches to visit in Singapore

Also Read: Top 10 Beaches in Singapore

6. Stroll through Little India’s Vibrant Streets

Little India buzzes with energy, color, and the aromas of Indian spices. This cultural enclave feels like a slice of India in the heart of Singapore and offers numerous free experiences.

Location: Northeast of Singapore’s central area (centered around Serangoon Road)

Timings: Open 24 hours

Highlights:

• Serangoon Road, lined with shops and street life

• Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, historic Hindu temple with free entry

• House of Tan Teng Niah, the district’s most colorful building

• Tekka Centre, bustling wet market and food court

• Street art and murals, capturing Indian culture and heritage

Tips for Visitors:

• Sunday is the most vibrant day when many workers have their day off

• Visit during Deepavali (usually October/November) when the streets are decorated with spectacular light displays

• Early mornings at Tekka Centre offer glimpses of authentic local shopping

• Dress modestly when visiting temples (covered shoulders and knees)

• Little India provides some of the most authentic free cultural experiences in Singapore

7. Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum

This impressive five-story temple in Chinatown houses what believers regard as the left canine tooth of Buddha. The ornate architecture and rich cultural exhibits make it one of the best free things to do in Singapore for those interested in Buddhist culture.

Location: 288 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058840 (Chinatown)

Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Daily

Highlights:

• Main hall, home to 100 golden Buddha statues

• Tooth Relic chamber, sacred shrine on the fourth floor

• Buddhist Culture Museum, featuring religious artifacts

• Rooftop garden, peaceful space with a prayer wheel

• Prayer halls, adorned with ornate carvings and artwork

Tips for Visitors:

• Dress respectfully (covered shoulders and knees)

• Photography is permitted in most areas (check for signs)

• Free guided tours available at specific times

• Quietest in early morning or weekday afternoons

• Remember to remove your shoes before entering prayer halls

Also Read: Museums in Singapore

8. Snap a Photo with the Merlion at Merlion Park

No visit to Singapore is complete without seeing the iconic Merlion statue. This mythical creature with a lion’s head and fish body stands as Singapore’s national symbol and offers excellent photo opportunities with Marina Bay as the backdrop.

Location: 1 Fullerton Road, Singapore 049213

Timings: Open 24 hours

Highlights:

• Merlion statue, iconic 8.6-meter national symbol

• Mini Merlion, located nearby for alternative angles

• Bayfront views, including Marina Bay Sands and skyline

• Waterfront promenade, great for walking and photos

• Night lighting, adds a magical touch after sunset

Tips for Visitors:

• Best photo opportunities in early morning (fewer crowds) or evening (illuminated skyline)

• Combine with a walk along Marina Bay waterfront promenade

• Visit during the National Day period (August) for special light displays

• The statue is open 24 hours, making it a perfect free place to visit in Singapore at any time

• Nearby Esplanade Bridge offers alternative photography angles

9. Wander the Historic Streets of Chinatown

Singapore’s Chinatown offers rich cultural experiences and historical architecture that you can enjoy for free. The preserved shophouses, temples, and bustling streets create an atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the modern skyscrapers nearby.

Location: South of Singapore River (centered around Pagoda Street, Temple Street, and Smith Street)

Timings: Open 24 hours

Highlights:

• Pagoda Street, famous for restored shophouses

• Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple

• Thian Hock Keng Temple , historic Chinese temple

• Ann Siang Hill and Club Street, known for colonial architecture

• Street markets, full of souvenirs and local snacks

Tips for Visitors:

• Most vibrant during Chinese New Year (January/February) with spectacular decorations

• Free walking tour maps available at visitor centers

• Evening visits showcase beautiful lantern and street lighting

• Many photo opportunities with preserved shophouses

• This area offers some of the most interesting free walking tours in Singapore

10. Discover Fort Canning Park’s History and Greenery

Fort Canning Park combines historical significance with lush greenery. This hilltop park has witnessed many of Singapore’s historical milestones and offers peaceful respite from the city bustle.

Location: Behind the National Museum, central Singapore

Timings: Open 24 hours

Highlights:

• Fort Canning Centre, venue for exhibitions and events

• Nine-Pound Cannon, a remnant of British colonial defenses

• Spice Garden, showcasing native herbs and spices

• Archaeological dig site, uncovering Singapore’s early history

• ASEAN Sculpture Garden, featuring works from regional artists

• Raffles Garden and Fort Gate, offering historical insights and photo ops

Tips for Visitors:

• Free heritage trails with informational signage

• Shaded areas make this a good midday retreat

• Regular free events and performances (check event calendars)

• The spiral staircase and Gothic gates offer excellent photo opportunities

• One of the most historically significant free outdoor activities in Singapore

Also Read: How To Check Singapore Visa Status In India

11. Visit the Singapore City Gallery

The Singapore City Gallery provides a comprehensive overview of Singapore’s urban planning and development. This free museum showcases the city-state’s remarkable transformation through interactive exhibits and detailed models.

Location: The URA Centre, 45 Maxwell Road, Singapore 069118

Timings:

• 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Saturday

• Closed on Sundays and public holidays

Highlights:

• Central Area Model, 1:400 scale model of downtown

• Singapore City Model, full-island representation

• Interactive exhibits, on city planning and design

• Historical displays, tracing Singapore’s urban growth

• Future plans, for upcoming developments and projects

Tips for Visitors:

• Located near Chinatown and Tanjong Pagar MRT stations

• Allow 1-2 hours for a thorough visit

• Free guided tours available at specific times

• Air-conditioned environment provides relief from heat

• One of the most educational free museums and galleries in Singapore

12. Relax at East Coast Park

East Coast Park is Singapore’s largest and most popular coastal park, offering 15 kilometers of coastline and numerous free recreational opportunities.

Location: E Coast Park Service Rd, Singapore

Timings: Open 24 hours

Highlights:

• Designated beaches, for swimming and picnicking

• Walking and jogging trails, shaded and scenic

• Fishing zones, open to the public

• Fitness stations and playgrounds, for all ages

• Cycling paths, great for long-distance rides

Tips for Visitors:

• Most popular on weekends; weekdays offer more tranquility

• Early morning visits allow you to see locals exercising

• Sunset views over the water are particularly scenic

• Bring mosquito repellent for evening visits

• One of the most spacious free beaches to visit in Singapore

Also Read: Singapore with Kids

13. Experience the Sembawang Hot Spring Park

Sembawang Hot Spring Park is Singapore’s only natural hot spring, offering a unique wellness experience without any entrance fee. It is one of the more unique must-try free experiences in Singapore

Location: Along, Gambas Ave, Singapore 756952

Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Daily

Highlights:

• Natural hot spring water, reaches up to 70°C

• Foot bath pools, with tiered temperature levels

• Egg cooking station, using natural hot spring water

• Educational signage, detailing the spring’s history

• Landscaped gardens, with edible plants and fruit trees

Tips for Visitors:

• Bring your own buckets or containers (or purchase on-site)

• Bring towels for drying

• Weekday mornings are least crowded

• Water temperature decreases as you move further from the source

• Not suitable for full-body soaking (foot baths only)

Also Read: Singapore Visa Appeal for Indians

14. Explore Haw Par Villa’s Surreal Statues and Folklore

Haw Par Villa is an unusual cultural park featuring over 1,000 colorful statues and dioramas depicting Chinese mythology. This offbeat attraction provides a glimpse into traditional Chinese values and folklore.

Location: 262 Pasir Panjang Road, Singapore 118628

Timings: 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Daily

Highlights:

• Outdoor sculptures, depicting Chinese myths and legends

• Journey to the West and Three Kingdoms, featured in dioramas

• Moral lessons, visualized through storytelling

• Chinese cultural displays, covering values and traditions

• Ten Courts of Hell, viewable from outside (interior may require ticket)

Tips for Visitors:

• Allow 1-2 hours for exploration

• Some exhibits may be graphic (particularly the Ten Courts of Hell)

• Bring water and sun protection as most exhibits are outdoors

• Quietest during weekday mornings

• One of the most unusual free places to visit in Singapore

Also Read: Singapore Visa Photo Requirements for Indians

15. Enjoy Free Art at Gillman Barracks

Gillman Barracks is a contemporary arts cluster housed in former military barracks, offering free access to many galleries showcasing both local and international art.

Location: 9 Lock Road, Singapore 108937 (off Alexandra Road)

Timings: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, Daily

Highlights:

• Contemporary art galleries, many with free entry

• Outdoor installations, scattered around the grounds

• Colonial barracks, converted into creative spaces

• NTU Centre for Contemporary Art, free exhibitions

• Art events, including the quarterly “Art After Dark”

Tips for Visitors:

• Most galleries open Tuesday-Sunday, closed Mondays

• Check individual gallery hours before visiting

• Art After Dark events (held quarterly) offer special exhibitions

• One of the most diverse free museums and galleries in Singapore

Also Read: Singapore Visa Extension for Indians

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FAQs

Q: When is the best time to visit Singapore?

A: February to April is ideal with less rainfall and before the main tourist season. November to January can be rainier but feature many festival celebrations, including Deepavali and Christmas light-ups.

Q: Is Singapore safe for Indian tourists?

A: Singapore is extremely safe with low crime rates and clean streets. However, always follow local laws which can be strictly enforced.

Q: Can I drink tap water in Singapore?

A: Yes, Singapore’s tap water meets WHO standards and is perfectly safe to drink.

Q: What’s the best way to get around Singapore while saving money?

A: The MRT (subway) and public buses are affordable and comprehensive. Consider getting an EZ-Link card for convenience.

Q: Are there any free walking tours available in Singapore?

A: Several companies offer free walking tours in Singapore (though tips are appreciated), and self-guided walking trails with downloadable maps are available from the National Heritage Board.

Q: How many days do I need to see Singapore’s free attractions?

A: A minimum of 3-4 days allows you to experience most of the free things to do in Singapore at a comfortable pace.