Singapore often carries a reputation for being an expensive destination, but the truth is this island city is full of stunning attractions you can enjoy without spending a single cent. You can actually enjoy so much of its beauty by just spending for transportation (trains or Grab depends on your preference).
Merlion Park
How to Get There: Take the MRT to Raffles Place Station (EW14/NS26), Exit H. Walk 5-10 minutes towards the waterfront.
Of course, no trip to Singapore is complete without visiting Merlion Park. Facing the glittering Marina Bay, this iconic half-lion, half-fish statue symbolizes the city’s humble beginnings as a fishing village. It’s a must-see landmark where you can snap postcard-perfect photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Marina Bay
This is just within the Merlion Park. When you enter the One Fullerton, you can already see the park where you have a perfect view of the Marina Bay Sands.
Esplanade
How to get there: From the Merlion Park, just walk through the bridge, you can immediately see the Esplanade
Not far from Marina Bay, you’ll find the iconic Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, affectionately nicknamed “The Durian” because of its spiky dome-shaped design. Aside from being a stunning architectural landmark, the Esplanade is also home to free art exhibits, outdoor concerts, and cultural performances at the Esplanade Waterfront and Concourse.
Gardens by the Bay
How to Get There: Take the MRT to Bayfront Station (DT16/CE1), Exit B. Walk via the Dragonfly Bridge.
Start your journey at Gardens by the Bay’s Outdoor Gardens. Wander through the vibrant landscapes, spot exotic plants, and stay until nightfall to witness the Garden Rhapsody Light Show, where the towering Supertrees come alive with dazzling lights and music. It’s magical — and completely free. Inside Gardens by the Bay, there are paid attractions like Cloud Forest, Flower Dome, and more.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple (Chinatown)
How to Get There: Take the MRT to Chinatown Station (DT19/NE4), Exit A.
Inspired by Tang dynasty architecture, houses what is believed to be a tooth relic of Buddha. Inside, intricate details, golden statues, and serene chanting halls create an atmosphere of peace and devotion.
Jewel - Changi Airport
How to Get There: Take the MRT to Changi Airport Station (CG2) and walk to Jewel via Terminal 1.
Before you head home, make sure to visit Jewel Changi Airport a destination in itself. The highlight is the HSBC Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and futuristic architecture. Whether you’re flying in or out, it’s the perfect way to start or end your Singapore adventure.
There are a whole lot more free attractions that I have listed on the Singapore Travel Blog 2025 (Itinerary & Expenses) like Helix Bridge, Little India, Kampong Glam in Bugis, Fort Canning Park, and Library @ Orchard, but we weren't able to really stroll these places since we have seniors with us, so we only went to the iconic ones. I was able to visit these when I went to Singapore back in 2019, so no worries! But if you want to make the most out of your trip, feel free to also include these places in your itinerary.
Who says exploring Singapore has to be expensive? Sometimes, the best memories come from the simplest (and free) adventures
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