6 Free Attractions Worth Checking Out in Singapore

Universal Studios, S.E.A. Aquarium, the Singapore Flyer, Singapore Zoo, and the Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay are some of the most popular places in the Lion City that offer unique experiences and attract millions of guests every year. But if you’re travelling on a limited budget, you may need to skip a few of these places and find more affordable ways to make your trip memorable.

That said, stretching your budget doesn’t mean you have to skimp on the fun. Did you know that there are tons of remarkable places you can visit without having to spend a single Singapore dollar? From dazzling architectural structures and nature parks to museums and beaches, here are six free attractions worth checking out in Singapore:

HSBC Rain Vortex

If you’re looking for budget-friendly activities in the Lion City, a trip to one of the world’s top aviation hubs is a must-do, as there are numerous places to see and things to do in Singapore Airport for free. One of these incredible sights includes the breath-taking HSBC Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. This majestic 40-metre architectural marvel of cascading water may already look astonishing in travel pictures, but it’s even more stunning in real life.

Visit during the day to witness a spectacle of colours as the sunlight hits the spray of water. You can also head down to the basement to get a unique view of this masterpiece and take gorgeous selfies for your social media accounts. Can’t get enough of this mystic splendour? Why don’t you stay until the sun sets and enjoy a fascinating light and sound show where the waterfall transforms into a screen right before your eyes?

Supertree Grove

The Supertree Grove is one of the free attractions at the Gardens by the Bay you shouldn’t miss. Where else can you find a dozen 50-metre-tall vertical gardens or “Supertrees” showcasing a wide array of gorgeous flowering plants in one area? The plant lover in you will surely be delighted to see bromeliads, orchids, tropical flowering vines, and ferns in different textures and shades.

To better enjoy your visit to this attraction, it’s best to go to it late in the afternoon, when the weather is no longer hot. You can find a spot underneath the Supertrees, relax, and enjoy some packed snacks. It’s also an option to wait for the start of the Garden Rhapsody light and sound show when the Supertrees will come alive with dazzling lights set against lovely tunes.

Singapore Botanic Gardens

Singapore Botanic Gardens is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking to relieve stress and anxiety without breaking the bank. Besides being a place where you can de-stress and commune with nature, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the finest gardens in the world as it houses thousands of plants, flowers, and trees of all sizes, shapes, colours, and textures.

Here, you can explore the Ginger Garden walking trail and marvel at the expansive collection of ginger plants, from the edible ones to the ornamental varieties with spectacular flowers and leaves. You can also take scenic photos behind a waterfall or near a pool filled with giant Amazon water lilies. Afterwards, you can go to the Rain Forest walking trail to see rare plants, towering trees, and forest animals. Alternatively, you can visit the Evolution Garden to learn about plant evolution and see various plant species.

Fort Siloso Skywalk

Do you want a thrilling attraction that will challenge your fear of heights at no cost? Walk the 11-storey high and 181-metre long Fort Siloso Skywalk at Sentosa. This treetop trail will give you a one-of-a-kind view of lush forests, beautiful beaches, and stunning sights at Western Sentosa, Mount Faber, and Keppel Harbour.

Make sure to take plenty of photos or videos, especially when you reach the adrenaline-pumping glass floor area. This will give you plenty of exciting footage and snapshots to share with your friends and remind you of your exciting Skywalk adventure.

Punggol Beach

For some people, vacations aren’t complete unless they include at least one trip to the beach. If you want to avoid big crowds, skip the beaches at Sentosa Island and head straight to Punggol Beach instead.

This picturesque beach in the North-East Region of Singapore offers breath-taking views and a relaxing ambience that are sure to relieve your stress. You can take a leisurely walk along the shore, swim in the water, or lay your mat on the sand and have a picnic. Try visiting late in the afternoon so that you can enjoy the cool breeze and take photos of the gorgeous sunset.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

Learn more about Buddhist architecture, art, and culture by visiting the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum located in the heart of Chinatown. This Tang-styled temple features a gigantic stupa made of over 300 kilograms of gold containing what Buddhists believed to be the left canine tooth of Buddha. 

Once you’re done learning about sacred relics, you can also tour the Buddhist Culture Museums and Eminent Sangha Museums. Other activities you can do here include watching cultural performances and film screenings in the basement theatre as well as savouring complimentary vegetarian meals at the dining hall.

For those who are travelling on a limited budget, these free attractions are a must-add to their itineraries. Besides saving you a lot of money, visiting these places can give you a better appreciation of what makes Singapore one of the best cities to explore.