Singapore on a Budget: Affordable Things to Do and Eat

Singapore is famous for its shiny skyline and fancy shopping centers, it may look costly at the outset. But it’s possible to enjoy this wonderful city on a budget. Singapore has a lot to offer for those planning a trip on their own, with a partner or with the whole family and at a reasonable price. If you’re watching your budget, this small country offers many affordable meals, free cultural sights and scenic hiking trails. To avoid problems, get your Singapore Visa approved ahead of time so your vacation goes smoothly. 

In this blog, we’ll show you the best places to visit and eat on a budget in Singapore. You’ll see that many iconic places are free or low-cost, the food is delicious and easy on the budget and you’ll learn helpful advice for your trip. Once you’ve packed, have your EZ-Link card ready and you’re all set to enjoy Singapore like a local. 

Here are some affordable things to do and eat 

1. Free entry to outdoor gardens of Gardens by the Bay 

Gardens by the Bay is one of the best attractions in Singapore. The entry to the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest conservatories is charged, but you can enter the Supertree Grove and the lush outdoor gardens for free. Catch the magical Garden Rhapsody light and sound show, it’s free and really memorable, visiting in the evening. 

 

2. Explore Marina Bay Sands (From the Outside!) 

You don’t have to be staying at the luxurious Marina Bay Sands to see the beauty of it. Take a walk along Marina Bay promenade, admire the architecture and take some great photos of the city skyline and the Merlion statue. What’s the best part? You won’t spend a single cent on it. The area is walkable and vibrant and especially when the skyline lights up at night. 

 

3. Visit Singapore’s Cultural Quarters 

Take a taste of Singapore’s diverse culture in Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Glam. These are neighborhoods packed with history, with colors, with flavors. Go into the bustle streets, see Sri Mariamman temple or Sultan Mosque and go to see the street art and local markets. It's free to enter and it's easy on the wallet to shop or eat here. 

 

4. Hop on a Bumboat at Clarke Quay (Budget Option for River Tour) 

A bumboat river cruise around Clarke Quay, Boat Quay and Marina Bay is a great way to view Singapore if you’re after something different. A great way to see colonial buildings, modern skyscrapers and the famous Merlion, it's one of the more affordable tours you can take. Tickets can be found online at a discounted rate or you can go during the day for cheaper rates. 

 

5. Hike at MacRitchie Reservoir or Southern Ridges 

Singapore has some great hiking spots for those who love nature and they’re all free! The famous TreeTop Walk is also located in the MacRitchie Reservoir Park, a suspension bridge providing panoramic views of the forest. Or, try the Southern Ridges which links several parks with elevated views over the city and harbor. 

 

Affordable Eats in Singapore 

1. Eat Like a Local at Hawker Centres 

Hawker centres are a must try if you are travelling to Singapore. These open air food courts offer a wide range of affordable local food, usually for less than SGD 5! Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, nasi lemak, satay and char kway teow are must try. Maxwell Food Centre, Lau Pa Sat and Newton Food Centre are some of the more famous hawker centres. 

 

2. Try the World’s Cheapest Michelin-Starred Meal 

Who knew? You can eat at a Michelin starred restaurant for under SGD 10 in Singapore! Then, go to Hawker Chan, who became famous worldwide for its soy sauce chicken rice. The flavors are rich, the portions are generous you don’t have to have a big budget to eat gourmet in this city. 

 

3. Local Bakeries and Convenience Stores 

If you’re out and about, grab sweet buns and pastries at a local bakery or cheap snacks and drinks from 7-Eleven or Cheers. Budget friendly breakfasts or light bites while exploring the city these are great options. 

 

4. Look Out for Food Courts in Malls 

Singapore’s shopping malls have basement level food courts with affordable food to offer. Japanese ramen, Korean bibimbap, Singaporean classic you can have it all and at a fraction of restaurant prices. Bonus is that it’s air conditioned and perfect for a break from the tropical heat! 

 

Money-Saving Tips 

• Save on public transport: Buy an EZ-Link or Singapore Tourist Pass. 
• Bring a reusable water bottle and drink the safe water that’s offered at many refill stations. 
• Enjoy discounts on food and drinks and visit free attractions or explore during happy hours. 
• Spend your nights in hostels, capsule hotels or budget hotels as long as they’re rated high in terms of cleanliness and comfort. 

 

Conclusion 

You don’t have to pay a luxury price tag to travel to Singapore. The good news is that with a little planning, you can do all that from serene nature trails to vibrant cultural districts to mouth-watering hawker food on a budget. If you’re here for a short holiday or long stay, you’ll find Singapore a very welcoming and wallet friendly place. The only thing you must remember is to get your Singapore Visa from India before you leave for your trip to avoid last minute hassles. 

So plan your affordable adventure to Singapore. Fortunately, the Lion City is full of free attractions, delicious local eats and if you know where to look, deals galore.