Singapore, known as the Lion City, is a melting pot of cultures, futuristic architecture, lush greenery, and tantalizing cuisine. Often perceived as an expensive destination, Singapore can actually be explored on a budget if you know where to look and how to plan your trip. This comprehensive guide will show you how to experience the best of Singapore affordably, including tips on attractions, dining, accommodation, and transportation. Whether you’re a backpacker or a budget-conscious traveler, this guide will help you make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.
Getting to Singapore on a Budget
First things first: getting to Singapore. There are several budget airlines that operate flights to Singapore from various parts of the world. Airlines such as AirAsia, Scoot, and Jetstar often have promotions and discounts that can significantly lower your travel costs. Booking your flights well in advance and being flexible with your travel dates can also help you snag the best deals.
Budget Accommodation in Singapore
Accommodation is one of the major expenses when traveling, but Singapore offers a variety of budget-friendly options. From hostels and budget hotels to capsule hotels, there are plenty of affordable places to stay.
Hostels and Capsule Hotels
- The Pod Boutique Capsule Hotel – Located in the vibrant Kampong Glam area, this capsule hotel offers a modern and comfortable stay without the hefty price tag. Prices start at around SGD 30 per night.
- Beary Best! Hostel – Situated in Chinatown, this hostel provides a cozy environment with dormitory beds starting from SGD 20 per night. It’s a great spot for meeting fellow travelers.
- CapsulePod@Aljunied – A futuristic capsule hotel located in the Geylang district. Prices start at around SGD 25 per night, and the location offers easy access to public transportation.
Budget Hotels
- Hotel 81 – With several locations across Singapore, Hotel 81 is a reliable chain of budget hotels. Prices for a double room start at around SGD 60 per night.
- ibis Budget Singapore Ruby – Located in Geylang, this hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms starting at SGD 50 per night. It’s a good choice for budget-conscious travelers who still want the privacy of a hotel room.
Affordable Dining in Singapore
Singapore is a food lover’s paradise, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy its culinary delights. The city is famous for its hawker centers, where you can find a variety of delicious dishes at very reasonable prices.
Top Hawker Centers to Visit
- Maxwell Food Centre – Located in Chinatown, Maxwell Food Centre is a must-visit for any foodie. Try the famous Hainanese chicken rice from Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice for around SGD 5.
- Lau Pa Sat – Situated in the heart of the Central Business District, Lau Pa Sat offers a wide range of local and international dishes. Don’t miss the satay street, where you can enjoy skewers of grilled meat for SGD 0.70 each.
- Old Airport Road Food Centre – This hawker center is known for its extensive variety of local dishes. Try the char kway teow or prawn noodles, both costing around SGD 4 to 6.
- Tekka Centre – Located in Little India, Tekka Centre is the place to go for delicious Indian food. Enjoy a plate of biryani for SGD 5 to 7 or a variety of curries at affordable prices.
Free and Affordable Attractions
Exploring Singapore doesn’t have to be expensive. There are plenty of free and low-cost attractions that you can enjoy.
Gardens by the Bay
One of Singapore’s most iconic attractions, Gardens by the Bay, offers a stunning display of flora and fauna. While entry to the outdoor gardens is free, you can also visit the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome for a small fee. To save on costs, visit the Supertree Grove in the evening to watch the Garden Rhapsody light and sound show, which is free.
Marina Bay Sands
While staying at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel might be out of budget, you can still enjoy the views from the Marina Bay Sands Observation Deck. The deck offers a panoramic view of the city and the Marina Bay area. Tickets are reasonably priced, and you can purchase a Marina Bay Sands observation deck ticket online in advance to save time and money.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is a beautiful place to spend a few hours. The gardens are free to enter, although there is a small fee to visit the National Orchid Garden. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a budget-friendly picnic.
Chinatown and Little India
These vibrant neighborhoods offer a glimpse into Singapore’s multicultural heritage. Wander through the bustling streets of Chinatown and Little India, visit the temples, and explore the markets. The Sri Mariamman Temple and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown, and the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple in Little India, are all worth a visit and free to enter.
Merlion Park
No trip to Singapore is complete without a visit to Merlion Park. Home to the iconic Merlion statue, the park offers great views of Marina Bay and is a fantastic spot for taking photos. Best of all, it’s free to visit.
Budget-Friendly Activities
Explore the Southern Ridges
The Southern Ridges is a 10-kilometer trail that connects several parks and nature reserves. It’s a great way to experience Singapore’s lush greenery and offers stunning views of the city. The trail is free to explore and includes highlights such as the Henderson Waves and the Forest Walk.
Visit Sentosa Island
Sentosa Island can be an expensive destination, but there are ways to enjoy it on a budget. Take the Sentosa Boardwalk from VivoCity, which is free to access. Once on the island, visit the free beaches like Siloso Beach, Palawan Beach, and Tanjong Beach. You can also explore Fort Siloso for a small fee and learn about Singapore’s military history.
Free Walking Tours
Join a free walking tour to learn more about Singapore’s history and culture. Companies like Monster Day Tours and Indie Singapore offer free walking tours that cover various parts of the city, including Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam. These tours are tip-based, so you can pay what you feel is fair.
ArtScience Museum and Other Museums
The ArtScience Museum often has affordable exhibitions, and on certain days, you can find discounts or free entry to some of the exhibits. The National Museum of Singapore, the Asian Civilisations Museum, and the Peranakan Museum also offer reasonably priced entry tickets, and they often have free entry on special days.
Getting Around Singapore on a Budget
Singapore’s public transportation system is efficient, affordable, and easy to navigate. The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system and buses are the best ways to get around the city without spending much.
MRT and Buses
Purchase an EZ-Link card or a Singapore Tourist Pass to save on transportation costs. The EZ-Link card can be used on both the MRT and buses, and you can top it up as needed. The Singapore Tourist Pass offers unlimited travel for one, two, or three days, making it ideal for short stays.
Biking
Biking is a fun and affordable way to explore Singapore. The city has several bike-sharing services, such as SG Bike and Anywheel. Download the apps, and you can rent a bike for a nominal fee. Singapore’s extensive network of bike paths makes it easy to explore areas like East Coast Park and Marina Bay on two wheels.
Shopping on a Budget
While Singapore is known for its luxury shopping malls, there are plenty of budget-friendly options as well.
Bugis Street Market
Bugis Street Market is one of the best places to shop for affordable clothes, accessories, and souvenirs. The market is a bustling maze of stalls, and you can find great deals on a wide variety of items.
Mustafa Centre
Located in Little India, Mustafa Centre is a 24-hour shopping mall that offers everything from electronics and clothing to groceries and souvenirs. The prices are competitive, and it’s a great place to find bargains.
Thrift Stores and Flea Markets
Check out thrift stores and flea markets for unique finds at low prices. The Thrift Store in Kampong Glam and the Flea Party at Lucky Plaza are good places to start. These spots offer a range of second-hand clothing, accessories, and more.
Enjoying Nightlife on a Budget
Singapore’s nightlife can be quite expensive, but there are ways to enjoy it without spending too much.
Rooftop Bars with Happy Hours
Many rooftop bars offer happy hour deals where you can enjoy drinks with a view at a lower price. Places like Loof, 1-Altitude, and Bar Canary often have great deals during early evening hours.
Clarke Quay and Boat Quay
While Clarke Quay and Boat Quay are known for their lively nightlife, you can still enjoy the atmosphere on a budget. Grab a drink from a convenience store and find a spot along the river to soak in the views and the vibrant energy of the area.
Free Light Shows
Catch the Marina Bay Sands light and water show, Spectra, which is free and happens nightly at the Event Plaza. Another must-see is the Supertree Grove light show at Gardens by the Bay, which is also free and takes place twice every evening.
Day Trips on a Budget
If you have more time to explore, consider taking some budget-friendly day trips from Singapore.
Pulau Ubin
Pulau Ubin is a small island off the northeast coast of Singapore. It offers a glimpse of what Singapore was like in the past. Rent a bike for around SGD 10 and explore the island’s rustic charm, mangroves, and wetlands. The bumboat ride to Pulau Ubin from Changi Point Ferry Terminal costs only SGD 3.
Kusu Island
Kusu Island is one of Singapore’s Southern Islands and is known for its lagoons, beaches, and sacred sites. The ferry ride from Marina South Pier costs around SGD 15, making it an affordable day trip option. Pack a picnic and enjoy a day of relaxation and exploration.
Johor Bahru, Malaysia
A short trip across the border to Johor Bahru in Malaysia can be a great way to experience a different culture without spending much. You can travel by bus or train, and once there, explore local markets, enjoy cheap eats, and visit attractions like the Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple and the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque.
Tips for Saving Money in Singapore
- Visit During Off-Peak Season – Traveling during the off-peak season (February to April) can help you save on flights and accommodation. The weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer tourists.
- Use Free Wi-Fi – Many public places, including shopping malls, cafes, and attractions, offer free Wi-Fi. Save on data costs by using these free hotspots.
- Refill Water Bottles – Tap water in Singapore is safe to drink. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it at water fountains available at most attractions and public spaces.
- Plan Your Meals – Eating at hawker centers and food courts is significantly cheaper than dining at restaurants. Plan your meals around these affordable options to save money.
- Use Public Transportation – Taxis can be expensive, so use the MRT and buses to get around. They are efficient and cover almost all parts of the city.
- Take Advantage of Free Attractions – There are many free attractions and activities in Singapore. Plan your itinerary around these to make the most of your budget.
Conclusion
Exploring Singapore on a budget is entirely possible with a little planning and smart choices. From affordable accommodation and dining options to free and low-cost attractions, the Lion City offers a wealth of experiences that don’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re wandering through vibrant neighborhoods, enjoying delicious street food, or taking in the stunning cityscape from the Marina Bay Sands Observation Deck (with a ticket booked in advance), Singapore has something for every budget traveler. So pack your bags, follow these tips, and get ready to explore Singapore affordably!
