9 Best Things to do in Singapore – Fun Experiences and Free Places to Visit

One of the places I visited on my way back from Bali was Singapore. I had a 2-day layover so it was quite hectic and trying to decide what to do in Singapore was a bit challenging.

However, I did manage to fit in a trip to the Bay, the National Museum of Singapore and a cheeky Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel.

It was quite a challenge to find things to do in Singapore that wouldn’t cost too much, but this guest post from Neha from Dubaiwiki shows there were a lot more things I could have done with my time.

Things to do in Singapore

Travelling to Singapore and looking for fun but pocket friendly ways to experience the place? The good news is that there are many attractions and activities in Singapore which you can enjoy without ever opening or stretching your wallet. So come take a look at the top free things to do in Singapore which promise you utmost amusement, entertainment and adventure all through your holiday.

Explore Singapore’s Ethnic Quarters On Foot

Singapore is known to many as a destination of stylish sights and luxurious comforts. While it’s true, the city-state is also stunning for its dizzyingly distinct and lively neighbourhoods which further represent the region’s rich and harmonious multiethnic heritage.

Visit the ever effervescent China Town or head to Little India where the most colourful sights await you. And of course, do not miss the tons of shopping and dining options at the Arab Quarter. The best thing is that all of them lie inside the city centre and you can easily discover these enclaves on foot; just make sure that you pack a comfy pair of walking shoes and arm yourself with a comprehensive Singapore city map for easy navigation.

Visit The Revered And The Oldest Of Its Kind Shrines

From the region’s oldest Hindu Temple to the age-old catholic churches and mosques to the stunning Taoist Buddhist shrine, Singapore holds some of Southeast Asia’s most historical and alluring spiritual relics, featuring different beliefs and religions. What’s more fascinating is that you can visit most of them for free; this includes:

• Sri Mariamman Temple, 244 South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058793
• Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, 141 Serangoon Rd, Singapore 218042
• Thian Hock Keng Temple, 158 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068613
• Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, 288 South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058840
• Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery, 88 Bright Hill Rd, Singapore 574117
• Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, A, Queen St, Singapore 188533
• Abdul Gafoor Mosque, 41 Dunlop St, Singapore 209369
• Sultan Mosque, 3 Muscat St, Singapore 198833

Stroll In Singapore’s Beautiful Gardens

Hanging out at Singapore’s free but beautifully maintained green spaces is an indispensable element of any trip to this city-state! Tour the 150-year-old Singapore Botanic Garden that spans over 80 hectares. Y

ou can also plan a picnic at the elegantly manicured lawns of Esplanade Roof Garden, which further treats you with the most stunning and unhindered views over the Singapore River, Marina Bay Sands and more. Another free natural park to visit in Singapore is Chinese and Japanese Gardens along Jurong Lake.

Learn About Chinese Folklore And Mythology At Haw Par Villa

Haw Par Villa is a cultural theme park like no other which enlightens you about the captivating Chinese culture, inspiring legends and myths and charming traditions tracing past to several millennia. Earlier called the Tiger Balms Garden, it’s nestled along Pasir Panjang Road. Apart from its hundreds of colourful statues and life-size dioramas that depict the iconic scenes from the Chinese folklore as well as mythological works, it’s especially outstanding for its unique experiences such as the Ten Courts of Hell, which interestingly is a grisly representation of how hell appears like as per the Chinese beliefs.

Browse The Singapore Really, Really Free Market

Yes, this temporary market by Post-Museum well lives up to its unique name; you’ll get to rummage through a mishmash of items that are up for grabs here, completely for free! This is absolutely devoid of any monetary exchange and gives you the chance to experience the pleasure of caring and giving.

After all, it works on the unique bartering or alternative gifting concept which would inspire the people to have a loving and sharing attitude. Yes, this not only allows you to pick your favourite books or clothes (among many others) but also swap them with your talent or stuff.

Retrace The Past At The Historical Landmarks

There are many sights in Singapore which stand as a poignant tribute to the region’s rich and complex past. One of the unmissable among them is Changi Chapel and Museum which journeys you through the ghastly times of the Japanese occupation and the Second World War in Singapore, through its many touching images, drawings, letters etc.

Bukit Brown Cemetery is another free attraction that you can visit for a generous bout of both history and tranquillity. Built in the early 1920s, it’s also the largest Chinese cemetery outside of China.

Check Out Gardens By The Bay

Gardens by the Bay is one of Singapore’s most iconic attractions. And you’ll be excited to know that it won’t cost you a penny to enter here and access its SuperTree Grove. Come here after the sun sets which allows you to see the resplendently illumed massive trees as part of imposing light and sound show. This show is usually held at 19:45 hrs and 20:45 hrs. But, know that a nominal entry fee is applicable to access its other sections such as conservatories (Cloud Forest and Flower Dome), SkyWalk and SuperTree Observatory.

Take A Selfie At Merlion Statue

Facing Marina Bay, Merlion Park is one of the most visited as well as the photographed attractions in Singapore. The highlight is the majestic half-lion, half-fish statue of Merlion, with water spurting from its mouth. Fascinatingly, it now stands as a mighty depiction of Singapore’s transformation from a quaint village to a world-class destination, attracting millions of people from all over the world. Apart from the main statue whose height is about 8.6 meters, there is also a smaller version of this statue. It’s known as Merlion cub and measures about two meters tall. You can wander around this park for free and click some stunning pictures against its backdrop too.

Go Museum Hopping

You don’t have to spend a fortune to discover the captivating culture, history and heritage. Yes, you can visit some of Singapore’s major museums, art galleries and other historical attractions for free, such as:

• Republic of Singapore Air Force Museum, 400 Airport Rd, Singapore 534234
• NUS Museum (the region’s oldest university museum), 50 Kent Ridge Cres, Singapore 119279
• The Gem Museum, 26 Kandahar St, Level 2, Singapore 198888
• Parkview Museum, 600 North Bridge Rd, Level 3 Parkview Square, Singapore 188778
• Kreta Ayer Heritage Gallery, 28 Kreta Ayer Rd, Singapore 088995
• Civil Defense Heritage Gallery, 62 Hill St, Singapore 179367
• Singapore City Gallery, 45 Maxwell Road The URA Centre, Singapore 069118

Additionally, there are some museums where entry is free for kids of six years and below, mainly National Gallery Singapore, National Museum of Singapore, Singapore Art Museum, Asian Civilisations Museum, Red Dot Design Museum and Fort Siloso.

Add some exciting fun and adventure

Can’t go to Singapore without some exhilarating experiences but don’t want to spend a dime on it? From a hike up to Mount Faber and swimming with dolphins at Sisters Island Marine Park to catching up with the most scenic views of the Southern Ridges, there are luckily many exciting things to do for free in Singapore. If these aren’t enough, head out to the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve where you’ll not only get to experience the city-state’s highest point but also experience the region’s stunning flora and fauna. This rainforest reserve is just 30 minutes’ drive away from the city centre.

Conclusion

Now that you’re aware of all the amazing and fun things to do in Singapore for free, the only thing left for you is to plan ahead for your Singapore trip. Along with creating an immaculate travel program, make sure that you get your Singapore visa in advance and also pre-book your accommodation, transfers etc to avoid all hassles as part of your much-awaited Singapore holiday. You can rest assured of a mind-blowing Asian getaway worth remembering.

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