Top 10 Free Things to do in Singapore, Singapore

March 7, 2022 Layne Dawes

The Singapore cityscape looks like it was ripped from the pages of a science fiction comic book. If you’re hungry for a true Singapore experience, sample the myriad street foods or take a cultural cooking class. The Botanic Gardens and the Gardens By the Bay offer a slice of horticultural heaven, and the observation deck of the Sands SkyPark makes you feel like you’re high above the clouds. The banks and walkways along the Singapore River bustle with local activity.
Restaurants in Singapore

1. Singapore Botanic Gardens

1 Cluny Road, Singapore 259 569 Singapore 1800 471 7300 [email protected] http://www.sbg.org.sg/
Excellent
71%
Good
25%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 19,805 reviews

Singapore Botanic Gardens

This national park is open daily and features beautiful lakes, animals, flowers and plants, including one of the region's first rubber tree orchards.

Reviewed By 2GuysSW

Wow! …this place is just beautiful. The word ‘gardens’ rather understates what this place is – there are so many different areas illustrating different plant life – evolution garden, rain forest, palms, healing garden, sun garden, fragrant garden, bonsai garden etc ...and there are also beautiful lakes and open spaces. It occupies a vast area and there is so much to see so we advise arriving early to give you enough time to enjoy and fully explore this attraction. Time constraints meant that we didn’t visit here when we were in Singapore last year and so it was on the top of our ‘must do’ list on this visit. It is so beautiful – well laid out and beautifully maintained and cared for. The National Orchid Garden is located in the Botanic Gardens and is a mass of so many different shapes and colours of orchids – you don’t know what to look at first! There are several cafes and restaurants dotted around the site (we had mid-morning tea/coffee and also a delicious salad for a late lunch at Bee’s Knees). A really enjoyable experience.

2. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

301 Neo Tiew Crescent Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Singapore 718925 Singapore +65 6794 1401 [email protected] http://www.nparks.gov.sg/sbwr
Excellent
53%
Good
37%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 538 reviews

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

This 200-acre reserve, situated north of the island, is home to over 150 species of rare and exotic birds.

Reviewed By Hasnah1962 - Singapore, Singapore

Despite being a stone city, we do care for nature! Spent this morning at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve made me realized how much our National Parks Board has done through research and education to conserve this wetland. It gave us the outdoor classroom to experience what nature has to offer Sunday morning walk at the 202 ha of this rare oasis of natural wonders and home to unique plants and animals. Following through the trails of mangroves, mudflats, ponds and forest with refreshing smell, sights and sounds of nature. Started from the visitor centre at Kranji way, we head to the Forest Trail, a 300metre stroll to the mid of Canopy Walk and to the Eagle Point lookout pod. There are five look out pods that could give you different views. After completing the Coastal Trail, we continued to the Magrove Boardwalk and the Migrating Bird Trail. It was certainly a refreshing and educational morning for me. Would love to do it again.

3. East Coast Park

Along East Coast Parkway and East Coast Park Service Road, Singapore 455486 Singapore https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/east-coast-park
Excellent
44%
Good
42%
Satisfactory
11%
Poor
1%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,217 reviews

East Coast Park

The city’s most popular stretch of beach always buzzes with activity – even when it’s not playing host to the wide spectrum of sporting events that grace its shores regularly, like the Singapore Marathon and Xtreme Championship.

Reviewed By Ginnyleeinwonderland - Hai Phong, Vietnam

I like this place a lot. It was a really good place to enjoy a holiday or free time alone or with friends and family. The beach was clean with blue sky. I came all the way down from Burgis to East coast park for sunset but instead of seeing sunset, I saw the light from heaven and it was gorgeous. Many people were there for outdoor activities such as going picnic, playing soccer, going fishing, etc. It was so close to the airport so that I could see airplanes flying around and sometimes I could see the logo of the airlines really clear. It was interesting. Although it was close to the airport, we couldn't hear any sound from the airplane. Outside, we could see many huge ships which carrying goods but there was no trace of oil on water and that was amazing. If you are in SG, you should visit East coast park

4. Kampong Glam

Kampong Glam, Singapore Singapore +65 6391 0450 http://www.yoursingapore.com/content/traveller/en/browse/see-and-do/culture-and-heritage/cultural-precincts/kampong-glam.html?TAHotelCode=125
Excellent
39%
Good
48%
Satisfactory
11%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 476 reviews

Kampong Glam

Its major landmark, the Sultan Mosque, sits in the heart of this enclave and is open to all visitors, as is the nearby Malay Heritage Centre, where you’ll learn about Malay history and culture.

Reviewed By Christopher_SNZ - Singapore River, Singapore

I have the pleasure of writing a review for Kampong Gelam area - perhaps one of the last, or the last jewel of heritage in Singapore. Kampong Gelam has a tremendous amount to offer if you look closely enough - from its generational Muslim food stalls, to the Sultan Mosque where regional travelers of the old world used to visit before continuing their pilgrimage. Several streets away from the Mosque is Haji Lane, where the pace and vibrancy goes to a new level with its colourfully painted streets and shop houses - with a feel that transforms as soon as the sun sets with its nightlife and food/drink. There are so many surprises to be found here, a definite must visit for someone that enjoys small streets and quaint antiquity that cannot be found anywhere else on the island - infused and held up by truly passionate shopkeepers and community members.

5. Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay

1 Esplanade Drive Esplanade - Theatres On the Bay, Singapore 038981 Singapore +65 6828 8377 [email protected] https://www.esplanade.com/whats-on/category?GenreNames=Theatre
Excellent
50%
Good
42%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,085 reviews

Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay

Affectionately known among locals as the "durian", Esplanade is one of the busiest arts centres in the world with about 3,000 performances presented yearly. Spot our prickly cladding in the middle of the central arts and cultural district, and take in the view from the Marina bay waterfront where our Outdoor Theatre is situated. Coming to Esplanade means that you're in for a complete lifestyle experience, from enjoying a night out at a show, to shopping and dining. And whether you're a first-timer, an ardent patron or fellow arts lover, you're most welcome here and we'll do our best to give you a great experience with the arts.

Reviewed By Lillgha - Hong Kong, China

Ni Hao, Apa Khabar and Vanakkam!! It was an absolute privilege for me to observe "Peace and Prosperity of SG" annual fun-filled event packed with exciting song performances, fireworks display, the setting of a Guinness World Record of the Largest Display of 720 Lion Dance, showcase of 54 Lamborghinis out of 300 in SG, outstanding Jazz performance by ladies band, Tessera, Rock concert and the lovely people, all around Durian Helmets!! I highly recommend everyone to stroll around starting from Boat Quay to Esplanade which is pleasant walk... they have some al-fresco dining available at the evening.. Enjoy!!

6. Clarke Quay

3 River Valley Road Clarke Quay Nearest Train Station: NE5 Clarke Quay MRT and DT20 Fort Canning Station, Singapore 179019 Singapore +65 6337 3292 http://www.clarkequay.com.sg/
Excellent
43%
Good
44%
Satisfactory
10%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 3,392 reviews

Clarke Quay

Reviewed By herwanderlustlens - Singapore, Singapore

Take a leisure walk between Boat Quay and Clarke Quay and enjoy the view. Clarke Quay is by the Singapore River, crowded every night, a lots clubs, restaurants, bars and live bands. It was full of people and music both locals and foreigners! One of the great place for nightlife in Singapore. Enjoy a River Cruise from Clarke Quay (Fort Canning jetty) to cruise along Singapore River and stop at (Eu Tong Seng Jetty / Bayfront North Jetty or Raffles Place Jetty. The duration is 40 mins. At cost of $25(adult) / $15 (child). Clarke Quay Nearby 2 MRT stations - FORT CANNING STATION (Downtown Line) & CLARKE QUAY (North East Line) Boat Quay nearby 1 MRT station - RAFFLES PLACE (EW14 on the East-West line, and NS26 on the North-South line.) Take mrt Exit G, cut through UOB Plaza and you're there

7. MacRitchie Nature Trail

MacRitchie Reservoir Park, Singapore 298717 Singapore http://www.nparks.gov.sg
Excellent
62%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,843 reviews

MacRitchie Nature Trail

A short trip from the city center lies the serenity of MacRitchie Reservoir, part of Singapore’s water catchment system that captures rain water to help supply the island’s growing population. Trails surround the park, which has an upgraded visitor’s center featuring a café, restrooms and information station. The best views are from the TreeTop Walk, a 250-meter suspension bridge across the rainforest canopy, which can be accessed along the seven-kilometer Venus Loop. Wear hiking shoes and bring water.

Reviewed By ChuaS168 - Singapore, Singapore

This 10 km run is different from the 5 km run that we ran in our school days cross country. You landed up deep in the forest.If you are a nature lover, you should experience the MacRItchie nature trail The 10 km takes four hours to complete but if you have someone who cannot keep upwith the pace and you have to wait for her/him you may end up five hours before you can finish the trail. If you bring food. eat when you are out of the sight of monkeys. They seem sweet,adorable and certainly know how to pose in front of cameras. But once you bring out your food they will run down from the tree to the ground and snatch your food. One hiker walked on the treetop brought out some food. The monkey walked on the rope and snatched the food.The tree top walk gate closes at five pm . When you pass the gate, it warns you that it is a one way traffic This is the yellow route. You will pass by the Jelutong Tower . Climb up the spiral steps , Reach the top and you will get a good view of the forest canopy There is also the ranger station where people play golf. Beware when you are there, do not use the lane that that is meant for the rangers .Do not enter or you may get hurt by the golf balls There is this Shinto Shrine which Japanese built to commemorate soldiers who died in the Malaya and Sumatra War. Before Japanese surrendered , they destroyed Shinto Shrine so that it would not be desecrated. Follow the signs closely, or you may land up heeding to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. You have to pass by the landmarks that I mentioned. Use a GPS Do not walk into the forest with an empty stomach or with minimum water supply There is no food along the trail, there are only two toilets . Travel light with enough water, food handphone medicine.and bring umbrella raincoat and hat .

8. Marina Bay

Marina Boulevard, Singapore 018980 Singapore +65 6329 3535 http://www.marina-bay.sg
Excellent
65%
Good
30%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
0%
Terrible
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Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 12,994 reviews

Marina Bay

Reviewed By AMG0701

Nice walk , river cruise is a must do, it will take you in 30 minutes journey, at 8:00PM the light show starts, Espelande is a theater oferring daily free performances indoors and outdoors, you may check the daily schedule, nice to have a look on Marina Bay Mall; walk through all the bridges there , Fullerton hotel is an Icon must explore, delicious food everywhere you go,

9. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

288 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058840 Singapore +65 6220 0220 [email protected] http://www.btrts.org.sg/
Excellent
55%
Good
36%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 6,424 reviews

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum (BTRTM) was founded in 2002 by Venerable Shi Fazhao. It was registered by the Registrar of Societies in 20th February 2003, and as a charity under the Charities Act in 8th January 2004. The Temple is dedicated to the Maitreya Buddha, which means 'The Compassionate One', and also called 'The Future Buddha'. (A)WEEKLY FREE GUIDED TOUR: BTRTM is pleased to offer a 1 1/2 - 2 hrs long guided tour of the Temple every Saturdays at 2pm. The tour will be conducted free-of-charge in English by the temple's Volunteers guides. Limited slots are available per weekly session. Confirmed registration is based on first-come-first-serve basis. (B)DISCOVERING BUDDHISM: Shakyanmuni Buddha had gained insight into the truth, perfected the qualities of wisdom and compassion over 2560 years ago. His teachings develops clarity in minds, enables abilities to end suffering and finds lasting happiness. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is carrying on the mission in offering "Discovering Buddhism' programme. 'Discovering Buddhism' is a specially designed programme for participants to gain experiential taste of Chinese Mahayana Buddhist etiquette, Basic Buddhist teachings and Basic Meditation within a day. This English taught programme is suitable for both tourists who wish to learn more about Buddhism and experienced learners who needs a refresher. Participants will benefit from the interactive and engaging teaching led by Venerable Wu Xiang and Venerable Ru Zhi who have more than a decade experience teaching Buddhism and Meditation in different cultural settings! [Chinese Mahayana Buddhist Etiquette] Buddhist etiquette is an important part of every Buddhist life. It expresses religious sentiments to the Buddha, the Teacher (Monk or Nun) and promotes gracefulness in social interactions. This is also a mean of training in mindfulness in every action one is taking. [Basic Buddhist teachings] Buddhism has been transmitted over the past centuries because of its timeless and enduring message to the spiritual needs of man in finding true peace, happiness, and well-being. In this part of the programme, learn about the basic essential knowledge of Buddhism. [Basic Meditation] Buddhist have been practicing meditation in cultivating calm, focused and positive states of mind. Introductory of technique will be taught to enable the participants to learn practical tips on how to achieve a clearer state of mind and focus better. Things to take note : * Avoid wearing hats, shorts or revealing tops * The organizer reserves the right to cancel the tour due to unforeseen circumstances. In such instances, registrants will be notified via their mobile phones.

Reviewed By cl41r3 - Nottingham, United Kingdom

This temple has so much to view. From the main hall where there were prayers being read, to the walkways around the temple showing the history, artefacts, statues, and smaller prayer/ meditation areas. There are many floors and even a roof garden where you can ring the prayer bell. It is an incredible place. I’d highly recommend a visit if visiting Singapore. There is a dress code but if you are not wearing appropriate clothing there is access to sarongs and scarfs to use during the visit

10. The Southern Ridges

Alexandra Road Mount Faber Park; Telok Blangah Hill Park; or Kent Ridge Park, Singapore 099203 Singapore +65 6471 5601 https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/the-southern-ridges
Excellent
61%
Good
34%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,172 reviews

The Southern Ridges

Bridging the hills of Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park and Kent Ridge Park, the Southern Ridges combine invigorating exercise with spectacular views across Singapore.

Reviewed By no_juan_is_an_island - Baguio, Philippines

The Southern Ridges connect the following parks: Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, Hort Park, Kent Ridge Park and Labrador Nature Reserve – all of which can delight any walking, photography, and nature enthusiasts. Mount Faber Park is one of the oldest parks in Singapore and probably one of the most popular tourist destination because of the cable car ride. The park is connected to Telok Blangah Hill Park by Henderson Waves Bridge. The park houses the Marina Deck, Palm Plaza, Jewel Box, and Faber Point. The Henderson Waves is my favourite spot. This 899-foot long pedestrian, wooden bridge suspended at 118 feet above Henderson Road, is the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore. It connects Mount Faber Park and Telok Blangah Hill Park. It is called such because the bridge has a waveform made up of seven undulating curved steel ribs that alternately rise over and under its deck. The bridge also has shelters with seats within. The Southern Ridges of Singapore is a “fresh air and greenery” personified. It’s probably all that and more. There is something about its great outdoors that gives walking, running a little kick. So when you find yourself in the Lion City wanting to commune with nature, and you want to feel more alive, energetic and optimistic – walk your way to the Southern Ridges.

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