30 Fun & Cheap Things to Do in Singapore (All Under SGD 30!)

Singapore is often seen as pricey. It regularly ranks among the most expensive places to live in the world. And... Crazy Rich Asians, anyone?

But here’s the thing: it’s not all sky-high price tags.

There are plenty of fun things to do in Singapore that won’t bust your budget. From laid-back parks to the heartlands, and cheap activities like museum hopping and hawker food, there’s loads to enjoy without breaking the bank.

All you need is a little planning—and we’ve done the hard work for you.

Here’s our list of 30 cheap activities to do in Singapore, all under SGD 30, so you won’t have to sacrifice a kidney just to enjoy your next holiday.

Cheap Things to Do in Singapore with Friends That Aren’t Boring

1. Go island-hopping

Photo: @felinethirteen on Instagram

Singapore may be an island city, but most people don’t come here for the beaches.

Still, if you're after one of the best cheap and fun places to go with friends, getting out of the city is hard to beat.

All you have to do? Hop on a boat.

Head to Pulau Ubin, or explore the Southern Islands like St. John's Island, Lazarus Island, and Kusu Island for a much-needed change of pace and scenery.

Boat rides to Pulau Ubin cost around SGD 4 (add SGD 2 if you're bringing your own bicycle), while ferries to the Southern Islands are about SGD 14.

Estimated spend: SGD 4–14

2. ArtScience Museum

When it comes to fun activities in Singapore that give you serious bang for your buck, make a beeline for the ArtScience Museum.

This lotus-shaped icon—where art and science collide—isn’t just stunning from the outside.

The exhibitions inside are well worth the price. Epecially the permanent Future World exhibition (yes, the one by Japan’s famous teamLab collective).

Instagrammability aside, keep an eye out for special events. The museum has hosted everything from Star Wars to Attack on Titan to Studio Ghibli.

Estimated spend: SGD 25–30

3. Visit a Thrift Store or Flea Market

If you're the sort of person who loves pre-loved things, then Singapore’s thrift shops and flea markets deserve a bit of spotlight.

Kaeru Thrift is a great spot for curated Japanese goods starting from SGD 8.

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SSVP) stores carry everything from household items to apparel, while Something Old Something New (SOSN) offers bags, clothes, and shoes—often priced at just SGD 1.

Oh, and keep an eye out for The Luggage Market and Fleawhere’s regular events if you’re in the mood for a good ol’ flea market fix.

So many places to thrift, so little time—Macklemore would be proud.

Estimated spend: SGD 30

Budget-Friendly Date Ideas in Singapore for Couples

4. Kayaking at Ola Beach Club

Looking for cheap, romantic places in Singapore that won’t drain your bank account?

Or maybe you just want an inexpensive date idea that’s actually fun—and won’t make you feel like you’re going broke.

Why not try kayaking at Ola Beach Club?

You and your partner can hop into a double kayak and paddle along the waters of Siloso Beach—one of the more underrated couple activities in town.

Sure beats shelling out top dollar for an overpriced restaurant.

Estimated spend: SGD 30

5. Explore the National Gallery Singapore

When it comes to date ideas in Singapore on a budget, it’s hard to beat the National Gallery Singapore.

Best part?

If you're a Singaporean, permanent resident, or a tourist with a child under six, entry to the museum is free.

That alone makes it one of the best free museums in Singapore.

And hey—where else can you see the world’s largest public collection of Singaporean and Southeast Asian contemporary art without forking out a single cent?

Of course, if you’re keen on the special exhibitions, we highly recommend getting National Gallery Singapore tickets—which you’ll need for access to those areas.

Estimated spend: SGD 24

6. Wild Wild Wet

Wild Wild Wet is one of the best places to visit in Singapore for couples (or with family, of course).

But if you're going with a partner, this local favourite has been one of the top cheap date ideas since way back in 2004.

And honestly—doesn’t a Vortex High-Speed Slide, Singapore’s first 360° extreme loops ride, sound way more exciting than your usual movie date?

An oldie, but definitely a goldie.

Estimated spend: SGD 22–29

Cheap Things to Do in Singapore at Night

7. Wings of Time, Sentosa

It’s pretty darn hard to find free attractions in Singapore at night.

But Wings of Time at Sentosa comes impressively close with its wallet-friendly price—under SGD 20.

So what can you expect?

A 20-minute, open-air spectacle set against the sea.

Think dancing fountains, laser beams, pyrotechnics, and a finale of fireworks lighting up the night sky.

For the price, it’s a no-brainer.

Estimated spend: SGD 20

8. Spend a Day at Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay is hands down a budget-friendly paradise.

There’s a free light show every evening at the Supertree Grove—a dazzling experience and easily one of the best free things to do in Singapore.

But it doesn’t stop there. Even the paid attractions aren’t terribly expensive.

For instance, you can explore both the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest for under SGD 50. Top up the budget a little more and you'll get to go to Floral Fantasy as well.

For one of Singapore’s most iconic hotspots, that’s solid value.

Estimated spend: Free (if you want it to be)

9. Spectra Light Show

One of the top free tourist attractions in Singapore has to be the Spectra Light Show.

Happening daily, this wildly popular night show never fails to get tourists (and locals) whipping out their phones.

You can catch it at 8pm and 9pm from Sunday to Thursday, with a third show added at 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

Wondering where the best spots are to catch it?

You can head up close to the Event Plaza on the first floor of The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, grab a table at one of the rooftop restaurants nearby, or head up to the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck.

The view from a Singapore River Cruise is pretty spectacular too—which brings us to our next point.

Estimated spend: Free

10. Singapore River Cruise

Hopping on the Singapore River Cruise is easily one of the best budget-friendly things to do in Singapore.

You’ll get epic views from the water of the hyper-futuristic Marina Bay Sands and Clarke Quay areas.

And even if you’re a local, seeing the city this way definitely beats being crammed into the MRT during peak hour—right?

At SGD 25.50, it’s a steal in our books.

Estimated spend: SGD 25.50

Affordable & Free Family-Friendly Things to Do in Singapore

11. What The Pug

Singapore has no shortage of family-friendly places to visit.

And one of the most affordable activities? Head to a pet-friendly café like What The Pug—a super adorable spot where you can hang out with a bunch of squishy-faced pugs for a full 45-minute cuddle session.

Best part? Each pug has its own quirky personality, colour, age, and size, so you can pick your new furry friend to chill with.

It’s just SGD 25 per session, and yes—there will be many, many cuddles.

Estimated spend: SGD 25

12. Hay Dairies Goat Farm

There’s plenty of cheap stuff to do in Singapore—you just have to know where to look.

In this case, you might want to venture into one of the more ulu (secluded, in Malay) parts of the island.

Hay Dairies, Singapore’s only goat farm, is tucked away in the far north and makes for a wholesome countryside escape.

Here, you can observe the goat milking process, feed the goats, and pet these friendly, furry friends.

The goats are milked daily from 9am to 10:30am, so be sure to arrive early if you want to catch it.

And oh—don’t leave without trying the goat’s milk. It’s fresh from the farm and incredibly creamy!

Estimated spend: SGD 10

13. Singapore Science Centre

One highly underrated family-friendly attraction that won’t burst your budget is a visit to the Singapore Science Centre.

You’ll find interactive exhibits that teach your kiddos about space, climate change—and yes, even poo.

As for couples, a cute, cheap date idea is to go stargazing at the Science Centre Observatory (just note that tickets sell out fast—it’s pretty popular).

Watching a film at the Omni Theatre, Southeast Asia’s largest seamless dome screen, isn’t a bad idea either.

Best part? A single ticket to Science Centre Singapore costs under SGD 10, making it great value for a day of fun and learning.

Want even more bang for your buck? You can bundle your ticket with nearby attractions like Snow City and KidsSTOP Singapore too.

Estimated spend: SGD 10

Hidden Gems & Unique Cheap Places to Visit in Singapore

14. Haw Par Villa

Photo: @overleelora on Instagram

One of the more unique things to do in Singapore is to visit Haw Par Villa—arguably the city’s weirdest theme park.

Bizarre-ness aside, the park is completely free to enter.

Inside, you’ll find grotesque and peculiar sculptures and dioramas depicting stories and myths from Buddhism, Taoism, and Chinese mythology.

You’ll definitely want to bring your camera for this one.

If you're up for spending a bit more, check out the ticketed, air-conditioned Hell’s Museum, where you can tour the Ten Courts of Hell for just SGD 18.50.

Estimated spend: SGD 18.50

15. Katong Antique House

Underrated and under-the-radar, the Katong Antique House is a true hidden gem.

Tucked inside a two-storey shophouse in Katong, this tiny private museum is a treasure trove of artefacts, costumes, and furniture that offers a rich glimpse into the Peranakan way of life.

It’s the perfect stop after watching Emerald Hill—a beloved local drama about a wealthy Peranakan family in 1950s Singapore.

You can book a tour of this 100-year-old house and even try on traditional clothes for a photoshoot to remember!

Estimated spend: SGD 15

16. Vintage Camera Museum

Think there’s no such thing as a cheap hangout spot in Singapore?

Think again.

The Vintage Camera Museum takes you through a fun collection of retro cameras—plus oddities like spy cams disguised as cigarette lighters.

Oh, and the building? It’s shaped like a giant camera. Perfect for photos, obviously.

All that for under SGD 20. Worth it.

Estimated spend: SGD 19

17. Kim Choo Kueh Chang: Nyonya Kueh Sampling

If you're a tourist, maybe you’ve already made the chicken rice pilgrimage to Maxwell Food Centre—or treated your taste buds to Katong laksa.

Now it’s time to level up—with a deliciously budget-friendly cultural experience for just SGD 12.50.

This time, you’re diving into something sweet and uniquely Singaporean.

Sample Nyonya kueh, one of the must-try Peranakan treats in Singapore, at Kim Choo Kueh Chang—a charming heritage shophouse and local dining staple since 1945.

Try favourites like mini kueh, nine-layered cakes, and ondeh-ondeh—soft rice balls rolled in coconut.

Estimated spend: SGD 12.50

18. Indian Heritage Centre

A visit to Little India is often listed as one of the top things to do in Singapore.

But what’s rarely mentioned?

The Indian Heritage Centre—a museum dedicated to the culture, legacy, and history of Singapore’s Indian community.

This four-storey structure, inspired by a traditional Indian stepwell (baoli), houses five permanent galleries—and it’s a real gem to explore.

Best of all? Locals get in free, and tourists only need to fork out SGD 10.

Estimated spend: SGD 10

Free Things to Do in Singapore That Are Actually Worth Your Time

19. Singapore Botanic Gardens

Cheap is great. Free is better. And one of Singapore’s best free attractions?

That’d be the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the Singapore Botanic Gardens.

With over 10,000 species of plants and gorgeous attractions, there’s so much you can do here without spending a single cent.

Swan Lake is a perfect picnic spot—with actual swans gliding around. The Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden is a must-visit for families, as it’s Asia’s first garden dedicated entirely to children.

There’s also the Mingxin Foundation Rambler’s Ridge, where you can take in forest views from 40 metres up.

Meanwhile, the Forest Discovery Centre @ OCBC Arboretum—housed in a charming colonial-era black-and-white bungalow—is a great stop to learn more about Singapore’s forest habitats. Kids will love the telescope for birdwatching from the museum.

And if you’re open to spending a little on a ticket, don’t miss the National Orchid Garden. With over 2,000 orchid hybrids—including Singapore’s national flower, the Vanda Miss Joaquim—this SGD 10 experience is an absolute bargain.

Estimated spend: Free

20. Southern Ridges

If you only have time for one hike in Singapore, do yourself a favour and make it the Southern Ridges.

Not only is it one of the best places to go in Singapore for free. It’s also a great date idea for couples looking to escape the usual routine and reconnect with nature (and each other).

Just a heads-up: certain sections of the trail are closed for repairs until July 2026—specifically, the eastern section of the Forest Walk and Earth Trail.

But not to worry. You can still explore the Southern Ridges by taking an alternate route along Telok Blangah Heights in the meantime.

And if you're a tourist who wants to see the trail through a local’s eyes, you can always fork out a little and join a guided Southern Ridges hiking tour.

Estimated spend: Free

21. People's Park Complex

For years, the People’s Park Complex and its brutalist façade have dominated Instagram feeds. And recently, it’s been refreshed with a bold red-and-white coat of paint.

Still, it remains an iconic landmark in the heart of Chinatown—and one of the most photogenic spots in town.

Shutterbugs can snap a shot from Temple Street, framing the building between rows of shophouses, with the massive Zhen Zhu Fang (Pearl Square) characters standing out in full view.

Or, head up to the rooftop on Level 6. From the main indoor square on Level 4, take the escalator to Level 5. Then just one flight of stairs gets you to the top.

Estimated spend: Free

22. Marina Barrage

Looking for free family activities in Singapore? If we’re talking top-tier, Marina Barrage absolutely makes the list.

You’ll get an epic view of Marina Bay Sands and the city skyline—and yes, you can fly kites from the rooftop lawn too.

The sunset view is easily one of the best in town. Plus, the Sustainable Singapore Gallery is a great stop where the kiddos can learn all about the nation’s water management efforts.

Add in the fact that you can even cycle there from East Coast Park, and your family day out is pretty much sorted.

Estimated spend: Free

23. Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple

A proper hidden gem (and a cost-free one at that), Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple in the heart of Little India is a great stop if you’re looking for budget-friendly places to go in Singapore.

Dedicated to the goddess Kali, the “Destroyer of Evil,” the temple is best known for its stunning Dravidian-style architecture.

You can even step inside to witness Hindu worship rituals. And if you'd like to understand the site’s deeper history, there’s an option to pay a small fee for a self-guided audio tour.

Estimated spend: Free

24. Kampong Glam

Ah, Kampong Glam—where old-school cool meets what’s trending.

This hip, artsy enclave is home to funky bars, vibrant street art, Middle Eastern cuisine, and traditional textile shops.

But the pièce de résistance? The Sultan Mosque—a majestic landmark built back in 1824 that still anchors the area with its golden domes and historic charm.

If you’re a couple on a date and looking for an affordable romantic dinner, check out Positano Risto.

That’s where you and your better half can enjoy hearty halal Italian food with chill, laid-back vibes.

Estimated spend: Free

25. Fort Canning Park Staircase

Photo: @kc9010_ on Instagram

Are you a pro at making your photos pop on social media?

If you’ve got the time (and don’t want to spend a dime), make a beeline for the Fort Canning Park Staircase.

In recent years, this spiral staircase has become wildly popular as a photo spot.

Couples even take wedding photos here—thanks to the way sunlight filters through the circular opening, framed by lush greenery.

Just a heads-up: queues can start as early as 7am, so come early if you want the shot.

Estimated spend: Free

26. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

When it comes to free places to visit in Singapore, few are as architecturally striking as the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.

Built in the Tang Dynasty Buddhist style, this temple is more than just a magnet for the ’Gram.

Inside, it’s believed to house the actual tooth of Lord Buddha, said to have been discovered in a collapsed stupa in Myanmar.

Well worth a visit if you have the time.

Estimated spend: Free

27. HSBC Rain Vortex at Jewel Changi Airport

If you’re flying into Changi Airport’s Terminal 1, don’t miss the HSBC Rain Vortex—one of Singapore’s most photographed attractions.

It looks straight out of a sci-fi movie. While the Skytrain gliding past offers a cool overhead view, you’ll get a far better shot from ground level—especially with the waterfall framed by Jewel’s lush greenery.

Photo: @raytanpoh on Instagram

Got time to spare? Head up to Jewel Changi’s Canopy Park, where tickets are budget-friendly (all under SGD 30).

You can get lost in mirror mazes, bounce on giant nets, or cross the Canopy Bridge for a panoramic view of the Vortex from above.

Estimated spend: Free

28. Peranakan Houses in Joo Chiat

One of the best things to do in Singapore for free?

Level up your Instagram feed with some dreamy shots at the colourful shophouses along Koon Seng Road.

The retro 1920s design and symmetrical facades feel like they’re tailor-made for an outfit flex.

Just remember to keep the noise down and be respectful—these are actual people's homes, after all.

Estimated spend: Free

29. Jurong Lake Gardens

Teeming wildlife probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Singapore.

But it’s time to expand that mindset—and discover a wilder side of the city at Jurong Lake Gardens.

This expansive green space is home to all sorts of critters: monitor lizards, otters, green parrots, sunbirds, and even hornbills.

It’s pretty much a bird-watcher’s utopia. And yes, some of the curated gardens here double as seriously photogenic spots.

Don’t miss the Twin Pagodas for a classic shot, or stroll through the Grasslands, which feel straight out of a Ghost of Tsushima video game.

Estimated spend: Free

30. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Sticking with the nature theme, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is a goldmine for nature lovers.

It was Singapore’s first ASEAN Heritage Park, and its wetlands and mangroves are an absolute joy to see.

The reserve also serves as a vital stopover site for migratory birds—making it a must-visit for both birdwatchers and nature photographers alike.

Estimated spend: Free

Bonus: Fun Things to Do in Singapore Just Over SGD 30 (But Totally Worth It)

Singapore Oceanarium

A little context first: the Singapore Oceanarium has officially taken over the space once home to the beloved S.E.A. Aquarium — and it’s a serious upgrade.

Now open to the public, this reimagined space is three times larger, with immersive zones and new marine life encounters that make it well worth the slightly higher price tag.

Even better? Tickets are already on sale, so you can be among the first to dive into the experience.

Want a sneak peek? Check out our full review of the Singapore Oceanarium.

Estimated spend: SGD 50

Night Safari

Whether you're hunting for inexpensive things to do in Singapore or just a cool place to hang out with friends, you can’t go wrong with the Night Safari.

Tickets start at SGD 56, including admission and a tram ride.

And where else can you see over 900 nocturnal animals from nearly 100 species? For animal lovers, it’s excellent value for money.

Estimated spend: SGD 50+

Adventure Cove Waterpark

If you’re on a budget, Adventure Cove Waterpark at Resorts World Sentosa offers a full day of thrills for under SGD 50—well worth every cent.

You can tackle rides like the Whirlpool Washout, Spiral Washout, and the Riptide Rocket—Southeast Asia’s first hydro-magnetic coaster.

Prefer something more relaxing? Drift along the Adventure River, or snorkel with over 20,000 tropical fish at Rainbow Reef.

Now that’s an action-packed day without breaking the bank.

Estimated spend: SGD 40+

Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck

Willing to spend just a little more?

Head up to the Sands SkyPark Observation Deck on the 57th floor of Marina Bay Sands for unbeatable panoramic views of the city skyline.

You’ll spot Gardens by the Bay, the Singapore Flyer, and even catch the nightly Spectra light and water show from above.

At just SGD 35, this one’s a stunner without being a splurge.

Estimated spend: SGD 35

💡 Tips for Exploring Singapore on a Budget

• Grab an EZ-Link card — it's hands down the easiest (and cheapest) way to get around on buses and trains

• Skip the fancy rooftop bars — head to spots like Marina Barrage or the sky garden at Pinnacle@Duxton for amazing views, totally free.

• Eat at hawker centres and food courts — delicious, authentic, and you’ll rarely spend more than SGD 10.

• Mix it up with free or cheap activities — catch a light show, drop by a free museum, or take a walk through one of Singapore’s many scenic trails.

• Stroll through charming neighbourhoods like Tiong Bahru, Kampong Glam, or Little India — great for chilling out and grabbing some solid IG shots.

• Hanging out with friends or colleagues? Nature trails or a good old-fashioned picnic are fun, budget-friendly ways to bond.

Final Thoughts: How to See More of Singapore Without Spending More

Singapore might have a rep for being pricey.

But as you've seen, it’s totally possible to explore the city without burning through your savings.

You can also go on cultural deep-dives, scenic hikes, or foodie adventures—all without splurging.

From island-hopping to Garden by the Bay's Flower Dome and Cloud Forest, there’s no shortage of fun, affordable experiences.

And now that you know how to make the most of your time (and your wallet), all that’s left to do is to go on a trip of a lifetime!