As Singapore continues to recover from the pandemic, the country goes through ups and downs, as well as increased restrictions on movement every now and then. So how do you keep sane as someone who loves travel and exploration? Well, we thought it would be fun to put together a few free things to do in Singapore during this period.
We’ve tried to narrow the list down to different things that go beyond visiting the Gardens by the Bay and really wanted to highlight fun things like appreciating Singapore Art or keeping busy with free Singapore activities.
READ MORE: Curious to learn more about Singapore? Read our Singapore travel guide and get to know the incredible Lion City
Hopefully, we’ve given you some fun ideas on how to fill your days in Singapore and experience something new.
Here’s our list of top free things to do in Singapore
Walk around Singapore
Discover local art
Singapore’s religious diversity
Free things that are currently closed
Walk around Singapore
Though it might surprise, Singapore actually has some decent walking trails around the island. I would hesitate to call them hikes or treks, but it is a decent way to spend a weekend morning when it isn’t too hot. Some of the top trails include:
MacRitchie Treetop Walk
You can walk amongst the trees and see the wildlife from the MacRitchie suspension bridge. This free trip is for those who want to be closer to nature and have some light exercise in either the morning or early evening to miss the afternoon heat.
The Southern Ridges
The westward trail is nestled between Mount Faber and the National University of Singapore. This is a very easy-going 10km walk, so do not worry if you don’t have a lot of stamina, it won’t tax most people. There is a lot of shaded walkways, so a walk anytime of the day is fine.
Changi Point Coastal Walk
One of the shorter walks in Singapore, the entire Changi Point Coastal walk is only a few kilometers along the coast. Though it is a bit out-of-the way it is very quiet and can be one of the most relaxing areas to walk along in Singapore.
A highlight for me was the fact that you often see the planes up close, because they have already begun their descent into the airport. The best time to go is early evening, as you can enjoy the cool ocean breeze during your walk.
Discover Singapore’s local art scene
Singapore actually has quite a few places where you can find art without having to buy a ticket. We take a look at some of the best places to find it.
Little India and Chinatown
My recommendation is to take a walk through these iconic areas to discover murals and local art scattered down little alleyways. They make great Instagram pictures and are also a great way to learn about Singapore’s history through the lenses of local artists.
There are also small tour operators that organise weekend tours if you want a guided experience.
Orchard Road Art Trail
Did you know that Singapore’s main shopping district on Orchard Road has 13 art installations? I didn’t know about this either, but the government has put together an easy-to-follow map for you.
ION Art
Sticking to Orchard Road, you visit the ION mall. With a focus on modern and contemporary art and design, the aptly named ION Art on the 4th floor offers some great art for you to discover.
Haji Lane
Discover Singapore main hipster hangout in Kampong Glam. Coffee, bars and more, are what Haji Lane is known for. However, they also have some of the most colourful and unique murals all through the area, so it is definitely worth the visit.
Singapore’s religious diversity
This may surprise you, but Singapore has quite an active religious community and they have great temples and places of worship that are open to visitors. This is one of the most fun and great free things to do in Singapore when you feel the need to explore.
Sri Mariamman Temple
In Chinatown, you can find the colourful Sri Mariamman Temple, which is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. It is a popular spot for visitors in Singapore where you can admire the carvings and immersive yourself in the local Hindu culture. It makes a great spot during a family vacation or outing, and it is one of the top free Singapore activities that you can do as a group.
Sultan Mosque
With it being Singapore’s oldest mosque, Sultan Mosque is a picturesque building and a must-visit if you’re keen to know more about Singapore’s local Malay and Muslim culture. You also learn and experience the charming lifestyle in this Arab district during your free tour here. It is often ranked as one of the most interesting free things to do in Singapore.
St. Andrew’s Cathedral
This Anglican cathedral is a calm and lovely building in the middle of one of Singapore’s busiest districts. Classified as a national monument, and built in 1836 it is one of the prettiest and most impressive churches in Singapore. It is definitely worth the visit if you’re around town and are looking for free things to do in Singapore.
Free things that are currently closed
Some of these activities are currently closed temporarily due to the pandemic and overcrowding. However, being the eternal optimists that we are, we decided to do a whole section dedicated to free things you can once they reopen.
Haw Par Villa
Haw Par Villa, formerly know as the Tiger Balm Garden is a homage to the expansive Chinese mythology. This cultural park spread is around 8.5 hectares is one of the best free things to do in Singapore during the weekend. Built in 1937, it houses more than 150 dioramas and 1000 statues depicting scenes from Chinese history and folklore, including my personal favourite – the 10 Chinese Hells.
The Singapore Really Really Free Market
Though closed since the pandemic, we’re confident it will return better than ever. The Singapore Really Really Free Market is a fun marketplace that is built on the concept of sharing resources and developing a community where lives are collectively improved by caring for one another.
Everything is free and everyone is welcome. The market offers food, books, toys, CDs and even performances and services like singing, hairdressing, poetry writing, tarot card reading and so much more. It is part of their drive to encourage the circular economy and promote sharing.
