Singapore has a reputation for being expensive, but many of its best experiences cost nothing. Three light shows run free every night, the gardens that made the city famous are open to everyone, and the views are free from the waterfront. Here are the best free things to do, with times so you can plan your evenings.
What are the best free things to do in Singapore?
- Watch Garden Rhapsody at the Supertree Grove (7.45 pm and 8.45 pm).
- Watch the Spectra light and water show at Marina Bay Sands (from 8 pm).
- Walk the outdoor gardens at Gardens by the Bay (5 am to 2 am).
- See the Merlion and walk the Marina Bay promenade.
- Visit the Rain Vortex at Jewel Changi Airport, with its own evening light show.
- Explore the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Picnic and watch the sunset on the roof of Marina Barrage.
- Walk the Southern Ridges and the Henderson Waves bridge.
Which light shows are free in Singapore?
Three, and you can see two in one evening at Marina Bay:
| Show | Where | Times |
|---|---|---|
| Garden Rhapsody | Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay | Daily, 7.45 pm and 8.45 pm |
| Spectra | Event Plaza, Marina Bay Sands | Sun–Thu 8 pm and 9 pm; Fri–Sat 8, 9 and 10 pm |
| Rain Vortex Light & Music Showcase | Jewel Changi Airport | Mon–Thu 8 pm and 9 pm; Fri–Sun, public holidays and eves 8, 9 and 10 pm |
To see two shows in one night, watch Garden Rhapsody at 7.45 pm, then walk across the bridge to Marina Bay Sands for the 9 pm Spectra, about 15 minutes away.
What is free at Gardens by the Bay?
All the outdoor gardens, including the Supertree Grove, are free and open from 5 am to 2 am. Only the domes, Floral Fantasy, the OCBC Skyway and the Supertree Observatory charge entry. Our Gardens by the Bay guide has the details.
Can you visit Jewel Changi for free?
Yes. Jewel sits on the public side of Changi Airport, so you do not need a flight to visit. The Rain Vortex, a 40-metre indoor waterfall that falls seven storeys through a glass dome, runs from 10 am to 10 pm, and the forest valley around it is free to walk. Only Canopy Park on the top level charges entry. Read our Jewel Changi guide.
Is the Singapore Botanic Gardens free?
Yes, entry is free. The gardens became Singapore's first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015 and include lakes, a patch of original rainforest and lawns that host free concerts on some weekends. Only the National Orchid Garden inside charges an entrance fee. Go early in the morning, before the heat.
Where can you see Singapore's skyline for free?
- Merlion Park: the classic view across the bay to Marina Bay Sands.
- Marina Bay promenade: a loop of about 3.5 km around the bay, best after dark.
- Marina Barrage: a grassy rooftop with the whole skyline across the water at sunset.
- Helix Bridge: lit up at night, with views of the bay in both directions.
What other free things can you do in Singapore?
- Southern Ridges: trails and walkways linking hilltop parks, with Henderson Waves, a wave-shaped wooden bridge high above the forest.
- Chinatown temples: the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and the Sri Mariamman Temple welcome visitors; dress modestly.
- Kampong Glam and Haji Lane: street art, Sultan Mosque and shophouse lanes to wander.
- Esplanade: the arts centre on the bay often hosts free outdoor performances.
How can you keep a trip to Singapore cheap?
- Eat at hawker centres, where a meal usually costs a fraction of a restaurant.
- Drink tap water, which is safe, and refill a bottle.
- Tap a contactless bank card on the MRT instead of buying passes; see getting around Singapore.
- Plan your evenings around the free light shows.
Facts checked October 2026. Show times and opening hours are set by each venue and can change, especially on public holidays and during special events; check before you go.
