Singapore on a Budget: How I Saved Money While Exploring the Lion City

When planning my trip to Singapore, I was excited to explore its world-renowned attractions, diverse neighbourhoods, and vibrant culinary scene. However, I couldn’t ignore the city’s reputation for being one of the most expensive destinations in the world.

As a budget-conscious traveller, I knew I needed to find ways to make the most of my visit without overspending. I discovered that with some planning and savvy choices, it’s possible to experience the best of Singapore on a budget without breaking the bank.

From relishing the local flavours at hawker centres to discovering the city’s many free attractions, Singapore is a treasure trove for budget-conscious adventurers. By sidestepping expensive tourist traps and embracing the local lifestyle, I could fully immerse myself in the city’s culture, history, and natural beauty—all while keeping my budget intact. Along the way, I unearthed a few tips and tricks that made my journey affordable and added a sense of achievement to my adventure.

In this guide, I’ll share the strategies that helped me enjoy Singapore on a budget, from where to eat and stay to how to get around and what to see. Whether planning your first trip to the Lion City or looking for ways to stretch your travel dollars further, these tips will help you make the most of your Singapore adventure without compromising the experience.

 

 

 

 

Singapore on a Budget: How I Saved Money While Exploring the Lion City

Singapore, known for its stunning skyline, rich cultural diversity, and world-class attractions, often comes with the reputation of being an expensive city. However, with some savvy planning and a few insider tips, I discovered that you can experience the best of Singapore without blowing your budget. 

 

1. Eat Like a Local: Hawker Centres Are Your Best Friend

When eating in Singapore on a budget, there’s no better way to eat like a local than by visiting the city’s famous hawker centres. These bustling food courts offer various local dishes at unbeatable prices. During my stay, I made it a point to eat at hawker centres as often as possible.

Not only did I save money, but I also got to experience authentic Singaporean cuisine. For around SGD 3-6 per meal, I indulged in delicious dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, char kway teow, and satay. My favourite hawker centres included Maxwell Food Centre, Old Airport Road Food Centre, and Lau Pa Sat.

 

2. Skip the Pricey Tourist Restaurants

While Singapore has many high-end restaurants and trendy eateries, I avoided these popular tourist spots to keep my expenses in check. Instead, I explored neighbourhoods like Tiong Bahru, Katong, and Joo Chiat, where I discovered delightful local eateries offering delicious meals at affordable prices.

This saved me money and added a sense of adventure and satisfaction to my dining experience. I also found a great Hawker Centre at reasonable prices at Satay by the Bay, next to the famous Supertrees.

 

 

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3. Buy Food from Supermarkets

Supermarkets in Singapore offer a convenient and budget-friendly way to stock up on essentials. During my trip, I frequently visited FairPrice and Cold Storage, two of Singapore’s major supermarket chains. I bought breakfast items, snacks, and even ready-to-eat meals, perfect for a quick bite.

If you’re staying in an accommodation with a kitchenette, consider preparing some of your meals. This will save you money and give you the freedom and flexibility to eat according to your schedule and preferences.

 

4. Take Advantage of Free Attractions

One of the best ways to save money in Singapore is by taking advantage of the city’s many free attractions. Gardens by the Bay, for instance, offers stunning outdoor gardens that are free to explore.

I spent hours wandering through the Supertree Grove, admiring the beautiful landscaping and soaking in the serene atmosphere. Another highlight of my trip was the nightly light and sound show at Marina Bay Sands. This spectacular display is free and can be enjoyed from various points around Marina Bay.

 

5. Enjoy the Outdoors

Singapore loves its green spaces, and many are free to explore. I enjoyed leisurely walks along the Singapore River, taking in the views of the historic bridges, colourful shophouses, and the city skyline. I enjoyed visiting the Southern Ridges, a linked series of parks and trails.

I enjoyed hiking through lush greenery, crossing the iconic Henderson Waves bridge, and taking in panoramic city views—all for free. Sentosa Island also offers a fascinating walking area with beautiful beaches, and Fort Siloso is a must-see attraction on the island’s western end.

 

 

6. Use Public Transportation

Singapore’s public transportation system is efficient and very affordable. I purchased an EZ-Link card, which made it easy to travel around the city by MRT and bus. The extensive MRT network covers most of the city’s major attractions.

Using public transportation instead of taxis or ride-sharing services saved me significant money. Plus, the MRT is so reliable and easy to navigate that it quickly became my preferred way of getting around.

 

 

7. Choose Affordable Accommodations

Accommodation can be one of the most significant travel expenses, but Singapore offers plenty of budget-friendly options. I opted to stay in a boutique hotel located slightly outside the city centre, which helped reduce costs.

Hostels and capsule hotels are popular options for budget travellers. They offer clean and comfortable accommodations at a fraction of the price of luxury hotels. Singapore has excellent public transportation, so staying further from the city centre isn’t a hassle. During my stay at The Robertson House near Clarke Quay for my 18th wedding anniversary, everything I needed was at the doorstep.

 

Find suitable Budget Accommodation Singapore at Booking.com!

 

 

 

 

8. Visit Museums on Free Days

Singapore’s museums are world-class, and many of them offer free admission on certain days or times. During my visit, I checked out the National Gallery Singapore and the Asian Civilisations Museum on their free admission days.

TVisiting free or low-cost Singapore museums allowed me to immerse myself in Singapore’s rich cultural heritage without spending a dime. I recommend checking museum websites or visitor centres for information on free entry times during your stay.

 

9. Explore Cultural Neighborhoods

Exploring Singapore’s cultural neighbourhoods is a great way to experience the city’s diversity and a budget-friendly activity. I spent a day wandering through Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s multicultural fabric.

From the vibrant temples and mosques to the colourful shophouses and bustling markets, these neighbourhoods are a feast for the senses—and best of all, it doesn’t cost anything to explore them.

 

10. Take a DIY Walking Tour

One of the most enjoyable—and cost-effective—ways to explore Singapore is by taking a self-guided walking tour. I downloaded a few maps and guides from the internet and set out to discover the city’s hidden gems on foot.

Whether strolling through the colonial district, exploring the historic Fort Canning Park, or walking along the waterfront at Marina Bay, I found that walking allowed me to take in the sights at my own pace while saving on transportation costs.

 

 

 

 

11. Use Discounted Attraction Passes

When planning to explore various paid attractions, purchasing a discounted attraction pass such as the Singapore Explorer Pass or the iVenture Card is worth considering. These passes offer bundled entry to multiple attractions at a reduced rate, allowing you to make significant savings in the long run.

I found great value in using one of these passes during my visit to Singapore. It allowed me to gain entry to the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, and River Safari at a much lower cost than buying individual tickets for each attraction.

 

Find discounted Paasses for tourist attractions in Singapore at Klook!

 

 

12. Enjoy the City’s Festivals and Events

Singapore loves to celebrate, and there’s often a yearly festival or event. Many of these events are free to attend and offer a fantastic way to experience Singapore’s vibrant culture.

I was lucky enough to visit during the Singapore Food Festival, where I sampled delicious street food and enjoyed live performances without spending much. Check out the Singapore Tourism Board’s website for information on upcoming events during your visit.

 

13. Bring Your Water Bottle

During my visit to Singapore, I noticed that the city’s tropical climate made staying hydrated a top priority, especially when engaging in various activities. To reduce waste and save money, I consciously decided to bring a reusable water bottle with me. I was pleased to find that clean drinking water was readily available in most establishments throughout the city.

Additionally, I encountered numerous conveniently located water fountains, which allowed me to refill my bottle free of charge. By opting for this eco-friendly alternative, I cut expenses and significantly minimized my plastic waste, making it a beneficial choice for my wallet and the environment.

 

14. Consider Off-Peak Travel

Travelling to Singapore during the off-peak season, generally between mid-January and April and August and October, can provide substantial cost savings on flights and accommodations.

During my trip, I strategically chose a period with fewer tourists, allowing me to take advantage of better deals on hotel rooms and airfare. By avoiding the peak travel periods, I maximized the value of my budget and enjoyed a more relaxed and less crowded experience in this year-round destination.

 

 

 

 

15. Get Local Insights

One of the most effective methods for saving money while travelling is to seek advice from locals or regular visitors. I had the opportunity to engage in conversations with locals, who offered valuable insights on where to locate affordable dining options, free events, and lesser-known attractions within the city.

In addition to seeking advice from locals, I discovered that websites such as Fair Dinkum Traveller, travel forums, and social media groups are rich sources of specific budget travel tips tailored to Singapore.

 

16. Do Souvenir Shopping at Markets

If you want to bring home a piece of Singapore without overspending, head to markets like Bugis Street and Chinatown. These vibrant markets are packed with stalls selling everything from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and local snacks.

The key here is not to be afraid to barter. Haggling is expected and can lead to significant discounts. A friendly smile and a bit of negotiation helped me score some fantastic deals on souvenirs, all while sticking to my budget.

 

 

 

 

Conclusion: Enjoying Singapore On A Budget Without Breaking the Bank

Singapore, a city known for its high cost of living, may seem daunting for budget travellers. However, I discovered that it’s entirely possible to make the most of the Lion City without burning a hole in your pocket.

By adhering to a few key strategies, such as indulging in the diverse and affordable food options at hawker centres, utilizing the efficient and cost-effective public transportation system, exploring the numerous free attractions and activities, and incorporating other savvy budgeting tips, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I could experience without exceeding my budget.

Whether you’re a backpacker seeking to maximize every dollar or a traveller looking to ensure that your travel budget goes a long way, these carefully curated strategies will enable you to relish everything Singapore offers while maintaining financial prudence. With these tips, you’ll save money and create unforgettable memories in this vibrant city. Happy travels!

 

Find discounted Paasses for tourist attractions in Singapore at Klook!

 

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