The best things in life are free!

Cliche as it seems but this saying still holds true. And it is most specially true if you are in an expensive place such as Singapore.

In various research and studies, Singapore was identified as the most expensive place not only in Asia but in the world. It was ranked as the most expensive city to live in by Economist Intelligence Unit in 2015 and fifth most expensive place in Earth by Knight Frank Wealth Report. So if you are traveling on a shoestring, stretching your budget is a real challenge in this country.

Thankfully, there are places and activities in Singapore that won’t hurt your stash or empty your pocket. Forget Universal Studios or shopping for a moment and check out these free attractions that are absolutely fun and worthy for your gram.

Rain Vortex at the Jewel of Changi

Start your discovery of Singapore at Changi Airport! See the Rain Vortex at the Jewel of Changi, one of the latest additions to the growing list of attractions in the city. Rain Vortex is the world’s largest indoor waterfall, measuring 40 meters (130 feet) high at the middle of a four-storey terraced forest.

Library@Orchard

There are 26 public libraries and national archives across the city that you can visit for free! With its beautiful interior, one of the popular is the Library@Orchard located at the third level of Orchard Gateway which is adjacent to MRT Orchard Station.

The Spiral in Fort Canning

The spiral staircase that serves as underground walkway going to Fort Canning from Dhoby Ghaut area has become Singapore’s latest Instagram hotspot. Get here early or prepare to queue to get a shot in this tiny spot. Don’t worry, it is free to public. Nearest MRT Station – Dhoby Ghaut.

Artworks of Ritz Carlton Hotel

Unleash the artsy in you and see the artworks in The Ritz Carlton Hotel. They have collection of various art installations and paintings from well-known artists like Dale Chihuly’s, Rainer Gross, Frank Stella, Zhu Wei, Andy Warhol and David Hockney, Henry Moore and Robert Zakanitch. These artworks are open for viewing to general public for free, you may also ask the reception for an iPod-guided tour.

Youth Olympic Park

After appreciating the artworks in The Ritz Carlton, walk to the nearby Youth Olympic Park and marvel at the architectural art that is Marina Bay Sands.

City Skyline from Ion Orchard

See the skyline of the city from a higher perspective at the Ion Sky and check out Ion Art Gallery all in Ion Orchard. Ion Sky is open to public for free from 3PM to 6PM.

The Merlion

Merlion is the icon of Singapore and the city hides a total of seven merlion statues. Two of which are located in Merlion Park at One Fullerton. Check out the huge and original merlion structure at the mouth of Singapore River that measures 8.6 meters tall and the merlion cub located nearby that measures two meters.

Southern Ridges and Henderson Waves

The 10-kilometer of green, open spaces that connect Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, HortPark, Kent Ridge Park and Labrador Nature Reserve is a one of good places in Singapore for hiking. Not to be missed is the highest pedestrian bridge that connects Mount Faber Park to Telok Blangah Hill Park known as Henderson Waves. The bridge is illuminated by stunning LED lighting from 7PM to 2AM daily.

Singapore Botanic Gardens

Breath fresh air at Singapore’s lone UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Singapore Botanic Gardens, one of three gardens and the only tropical botanic garden to be inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. It opens at 5AM daily, perfect for an early morning walk, jog, run, taichi or yoga session. Or just simply sit on one of the benches… read a book or a daily or watch the people’s movement around.

National Gallery Singapore and other Museums

Some museums waive their admission fees on specific date, time and occasion. This include the Singapore Art Museum, The National Gallery Singapore, The National Museum of Singapore and Asian Civilisation Museum.

Sunset

See the beautiful hues of sunset from different viewpoint such as this one in Gardens by the Bay. Some of the best places to see the sunset are at Lower Pierce Reservoir, Changi Reservoir, Labrador Nature Reserve, Pulau Ubin, Woodlands Waterfront, Mount Faber, Punggol Waterway Park, Punggol Point Park, Bedok Reservoir Park, MacRitchie Nature Trail and Upper Seletar Reservoir Park among others.

Gardens by the Bay

Singapore’s vision to be a “City in a Garden” is realized in Gardens by the Bay. It is a multi-awarded horticultural destination that spans 101 hectares of reclaimed land in Marina Bay. Checkout the Supertrees, Serene Garden, Art Installations, or Dragonfly & Kingfisher Lakes. Or the Far East Organization Children’s Garden that are all accessible to public for free! Be here by 745PM or 845PM and see the Supergrove Trees come to life with amazing music and light show.

… and Anywhere in the City

Undoubtedly, Singapore is a walkable city. So take a stroll in the city’s numerous parks and baywalks. In Chinatown, in Kampung Glam, in Little India, in the heritage trails and other areas of Singapore. It is the most intimate and environment friendly way to get to know the city. 🙂