Singapore is the world’s most expensive city for the last five years. And as a solo traveller, this is not good news. It means I can only stay for a few days and see everything quickly.
But luckily, the majority of tourist attractions are near each other and visitors can efficiently see the best Singapore attractions in 2 days.
And most of these attractions are completely free! And you can do all of these activities on your own. Take a look at my top 21 free things to do alone in Singapore.
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Before you travel solo to Singapore
Before you look for places to go alone in Singapore, take a look at my Singapore solo travel guide and learn about the city first. I included recommendations for must-see attractions and ideas on where to stay and where to eat in Singapore.
Here are some additional tips for sightseeing solo in Singapore:
- The best way to get around the city is by taking Singapore Mass Rapid Transit (MRT). It is easy to use and the most economical way to get around Singapore.
- Get an EZ-link card, a rechargeable subway card, and use it to take to and from the nature trails. When you use the EZ-link card, you pay the discounted rate instead of the full fare. Purchased one at the MRT station or any 7-Eleven.
21 free things to do alone in Singapore
Wondering what to do alone in Singapore? The city is perfect for solo travellers as it is safe and many attractions are easily accessible on foot or by public transportation.
So here is a summary of my top 21 free things to do alone in Singapore (in no particular order)
- See the world’s tallest indoor waterfall at the Jewel at Changi Airport
- Visit Singapore’s most famous icon, the Merlion
- Take an Instagram photo at the Old Hill Street Police Station
- Visit one of the city parks like Fort Canning Park
- Join different free programs at the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay
- Window shop on Orchard Road
- Admire modern contemporary architecture around Marina Bay
- Wander around Gardens by the Bay
- Watch the light and music show at Supertree Grove
- Watch the sunset at the roof level of Marina Barrage
- Visit many places of worship including Thian Hock Feng Temple
- Learn about the city at Singapore City Gallery
- Look for art murals around Chinatown
- Hike up to Singapore’s highest peak, Bukit Timah Summit
- Look for colourful Peranakan Houses on Koon Seng Road
- Visit the quirky Haw Par Villa
- Walk across the TreeTop Walk in the Central Catchment Nature Reserve
- Visit Singapore Botanic Gardens, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Singapore
- Have a beach day at East Coast Beach
- Spend the day exploring Sentosa Island
- Visit the southernmost point of continental Asia
1. See the world’s tallest indoor waterfall at the Jewel at Changi Airport
When you arrive at Changi Airport, aka the best airport in the world, check out the HSBC Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall in the heart of the Forest Valley at the Jewel. The 40-meter-high waterfall starts from the glass and steel roof and water cascade down to the B2 level.
If you are at the Jewel in the evening, make sure to catch the light and sound show at 7:30pm and 8:30pm (Monday to Thursday) and 7:30pm, 8:30pm, and 9:30pm (Friday to Sunday).
Also, wander around solo and find the walking trails in the Shiseido Forest Valley, a 4-storey indoor garden around the perimeter of the Jewel.
Address: 78 Airport Boulevard, Singapore | Hours: 9am-11:30pm | MRT Station: Changi Airport (CG2)
2. Visit Singapore’s most famous icon, the Merlion
The Merlion is the official mascot of Singapore. The half-lion and half-fish statue got its name from its past. “Mer” represents the sea, which it represents Singapore’s origin as a fishing village. And the lion represents Singapore’s original name, Singapura, which means “lion city.”
The statue fountain overlooks Marina Bay in Merlion Park. You can’t miss it! There is a bridge built into the bay where you can take photos of the Merlion from many different vantage points.
Address: Merlion Park, south end of Esplanade Bridge, Singapore | Hours: 24 hours | MRT Station: Raffles Place (EW14/NS26)
3. Take an Instagram photo at the Old Hill Street Police Station
One of the best things to do alone in Singapore is to find Instagram-worthy spots around the city. Many places include Gardens by the Bay, the Jewel, ArtScience Museum, and many more.
But the most famous and the most unique spot is the Old Hill Street Police Station. It used to house over a thousand police officers and their families when it was first constructed in 1934. Today, the historic building is used as government office space.
Most people may not know about the history and evolution of this building. Still, people recognize the building right away because of the iconic windows with different rainbow colours. It is all over Instagram!
Address: 140 Hill Street, Singapore | Hours: 24 hours | MRT Station: Clarke Quay Station (NE5)
4. Visit one of the city parks like Fort Canning Park
There are a few city parks in Singapore that are worth visiting and it is absolutely free. And one of them is Fort Canning Park.
While the park was part of many important historical milestones in Singapore, it serves as a green space for visitors today. The park has a reservoir, nine historical gardens, and many walking trails that will take you to every corner of the park.
One of the most exciting spots in Fort Canning Park is the Tree Tunnel (pictured below). The underground tunnel ends at the spiral staircase which has an opening above. Many locals and foreigners wait in the long queue to take the perfect Instagram photo!
But if you only want to see the Tree Tunnel, take the MRT and exit at Bras Basah Station.
Address: 51 Canning Rise, Singapore | Hours: 24 hours | MRT Station: Dhoby Ghaut (NS24/NE6/CC1)
5. Join different free programs at the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay
The Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay is a national performing arts centre hosting a diverse range of performing arts, including dance, music, and theatre. Moreover, they believe in making different types of arts accessible to everyone. That’s why there is always something interesting going on at the Esplanade.
Not many people know but over 70% of Esplanade’s programs are free. And they include visual arts, theatre, activities and workshops.
Before you head to the Esplanade, check out the Esplanade’s website for the free programs so you can plan your visit to “the Durian”.
Address: 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore | Hours: 8:30am-6pm | MRT Station: City Hall (EW13/NS25)
6. Window shop on Orchard Road
Orchard Road is home to the best shops in Singapore. From boutique stores to international high-end retailers, whatever your heart desires, you can find it on Orchard Road. Check out ION Orchard Mall, Takashimaya Department Store and Paragon Shopping Centre.
As a minimalist traveller, I don’t buy much and tend to window shop more than actual shopping. It is a free activity and an enjoyable one!
Address: Orchard Road, Singapore (between Orange Grove Rd and Killiney Rd) | Hours: 10am-10pm | MRT Station: Orchard (NS22)
7. Admire modern contemporary architecture around Marina Bay
One of the best places to go alone in Singapore is Marina Bay. The area is full of modern architecture and unique contemporary buildings. And viewing these modern buildings is absolutely free!
My favourite modern architecture is the Helix Bridge, a pedestrian bridge that resembles the double-helix strands. Take a look at the bridge during the day and at night.
Also, check out the ArtScience Museum, a building that looks like a lotus, Marina Bay Sands, a luxury hotel with a distinctive silhouette, and the Gardens by the Bay, where you will find modern architecture like the Cloud Forest, Flower Dome and Supertree Grove.
Address: Marina Bay, Singapore | Hours: 24 hours | MRT Station: Bayfront (CE1/DT16)
8. Wander around Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is one of the best urban parks in Singapore. Many people know of the park because of the two domes: Cloud Forest and Flower Dome. They are both paid activities (which are completely worth it by the way).
But did you know that are many free things to do around the Gardens?
There is a series of nature trails all around the park that meanders through the Heritage Gardens which will lead you to The Meadow and Serene Garden. And there are interesting spots around Dragonfly Lake and Kingfisher Lake where you can see a diverse ecosystem of plants and animals. And don’t miss the Sun Pavilion!
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore | Hours: 5am-2am | MRT Station: Bayfront (CE1/DT16)
9. Watch the light and music show at Supertree Grove
At the Supertree Grove at the Gardens by the Bay, there are giant trees 25 and 50-meters tall. And if you are not afraid of heights, walk the OCBC Skyway (require entrance fee) or take in the panoramic view from the Supertree Observatory.
During the evening, check out Garden Rhapsody, a music and light show at the Supertree Grove. The shows are at 7:45 pm and 8:45 pm every evening. It is one of the best things to do at night in Singapore alone but go early so you can grab a good spot to watch the free show.
The theme of the show changes quite a bit. They even had a Star Wars light show edition on May 4! So brilliant! Check the show schedule before your visit.
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore | Hours: 5am-2am | MRT Station: Bayfront (CE1/DT16)
10. Watch the sunset on the roof level of Marina Barrage
One of my favourite places to visit in Singapore alone is the Marina Barrage. It is Singapore’s 15th water reservoir and the first one in the city. Not only does it bring in a new source of water supply, but the reservoir also has many water activities like kayaking and dragon boating.
Plus, the building itself is a beautiful modern contemporary building drawing locals and tourists during the weekends.
Moreover, visiting Marina Barrage is one of the best free things to do in Singapore alone as the rooftop is open to the public. Bring some food and have a picnic on the grassy roof. It is one of the best spots to see the Singapore skyline and to watch the sunset!
Address: 8 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore | Hours: 24 hours | MRT Station: Gardens by the Bay Station (TE22)
11. Visit many places of worship including Thian Hock Feng Temple
Singapore is a multicultural country where the city-state is made up of primarily Chinese, Malays and Indians. And because of the diversity, there are many churches, mosques, temples, and synagogues all over the city. Visit each one of these peaceful places in Singapore and appreciate the different types of architecture and culture.
They are all free to visit. However, please remember to dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) when you visit any of these places of worship.
Check out Thian Hock Keng Temple, Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Sri Mariamman Temple, Sri Vadapathira Kaliamman Temple, and Masjid Sultan.
Address: 158 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore | Hours: 7:30am-5:30pm | MRT Station: Telok Ayer (DT18)
12. Learn about the city at Singapore City Gallery
Singapore City Gallery has three floors showing how Singapore evolved throughout the years. On the second floor, there is a 3d architectural model of the entire country. And there are free interactive exhibitions where you can see how Singapore transformed from a small fishing village to a metropolis city.
Address: 45 Maxwell Road, Singapore | Hours: 9am-5pm (closed Sundays) | MRT Station: Tanjong Pagar (EW15)
13. Look for art murals around Chinatown
One of the best free activities in Singapore is to find urban street art in the city. They are not concentrated in one part of the town only, nor is there a specific style to the street art. Each graffiti has a different style and different aesthetics.
Wherever you go, keep an eye out for these colourful street murals. You might find some on the main road or in a small alley. And many of them are Instagram-worthy!
Wall murals are all around Singapore. My favourite ones are around Chinatown. But you can also find street art at Haji Lane, around Tanjong Pagar, and Little India.
Address: Chinatown, Singapore | Hours: 24 hours | MRT Station: Chinatown Station (NE4/DT19)
14. Hike up to Singapore’s highest peak, Bukit Timah Summit
Singapore is a relatively flat city but there is an official peak that you can hike to while you are travelling solo in Singapore.
In the middle of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, a paved hiking trail will lead up to the very top. At 163m, Bukit Timah Summit is the highest hill in Singapore.
There isn’t much to see at the top of Bukit Timah Hill except for a resting pavilion and a rock indicating the peak coordinates. But I guess it is more about self-satisfaction and crossing off an item on the to-do list, right?
Address: Hindhere Drive, Singapore | Hours: 7am-7pm | MRT Station: Beauty World (DT5)
15. Look for colourful Peranakan Houses on Koon Seng Road
One of the highlights of Singapore is learning about local culture, specifically, the Peranakan culture. Peranakan refers to people who were born locally in Singapore, and typically they are Chinese and Malay.
And Peranakan culture can be seen in food, architecture, and everyday life.
You must visit some of the colourful Peranakan shophouses on Koon Seng Road in the Katong neighbourhood. The pre-war architecture has an ornate facade and detailed motifs. Moreover, these two-storey preserved shophouses are colourful and bright.
There are other Peranakan houses in Singapore. Check out the residential homes on Emerald Hill Road near Orchard Road and commercial shophouses along East Coast Road.
Address: 19 Koon Seng Road, Singapore| Hours: 24 hours | MRT Station: Paya Lebar (CC9)
16. Visit the quirky Haw Par Villa
Formerly known as the Tiger Balm Garden, the eclectic park was a creation by Aw Boon Haw, one of the two brothers who developed Tiger Balm.
Opened in 1934, Haw Par Villa is a quirky outdoor park with 3-dimensional sculptures and figurines telling tales of Chinese folklore and mythology. The mission of this quirky park is to educate the young generation on essential life lessons and moral values.
I’ve never seen anything like Haw Par Villa! Don’t believe me? See it for yourself! The quirky little villa is free and great for wandering around alone.
Address: 262 Pasir Panjang Road, Singapore | Hours: 9am-10pm | MRT Station: Haw Par Villa (CC25)
17. Walk across the TreeTop Walk in the Central Catchment Nature Reserve
At the north end of the Central Catchment Nature Reserve, there is a 250m suspended bridge connecting the two highest points in the park. It is called the TreeTop Walk.
Walking across the bridge is absolutely free! Just remember that the TreeTop Walk is a one-way walking route. You can only enter from the Peirce Track entrance and exit at the Petaling Boardwalk.
This is one of the best things to do alone in Singapore if you enjoy nature and want to see panoramic views of the largest nature reserve in Singapore. And if you want to hike in Singapore, enjoy the 20km of MacRitchie Nature Trail around the park and see the green side of the city.
Address: Lornie Road, Singapore | Hours: 9am-5pm Tuesday to Friday; 8:30am-5pm Saturdays, Sundays, and Public Holidays | MRT Station: Marymount (CC16)
18. Visit Singapore Botanic Gardens, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Singapore
The Singapore Botanic Gardens is the city’s first and only UNESCO World Heritage Site. And visiting the Gardens is completely free!
The 82-acre garden is inspired by the English Landscape Garden Movement, which includes lakes, large green lawns, and architectural features like bridges and classic pavilions. And within the park, there are over 60,000 plants including tropical trees, orchids, and plant collections from all around the world.
Spend the day wandering around the park and see the latest exhibit at the Centre of Ethnobotany or learn about the Garden’s history at the Heritage Museum in Holltum Hall.
Address: 1 Cluny Road, Singapore | Hours: 5am-12am | MRT Station: Botanic Gardens (CC19/DT9)
19. Have a beach day at East Coast Beach
While you are travelling solo in Singapore, you might want to check out some of the beaches around the city.
One of the favourites amongst the local community is the East Coast Beach. It is a 15km long sandy beach parallel to the walking and biking paths of East Coast Park on the southeast side of Singapore.
It’s not as popular as the beaches of Sentosa (which I will talk about next) but definitely worth exploring. Plus, you can see many cargo container ships on the horizon. Don’t think I’ve seen that anywhere else!
And when you are hungry, try Singaporean food at one of the hawkers at East Coast Lagoon Food Village. Imagine eating satays and drinking beer in front of a beach? Oh yes!
Address: East Coast Park Service Road, Singapore | Hours: 24 hours | MRT Station: Paya Lebar (CC9/EW8) then take bus 43, 134, or 135 and walk 8 minutes
20. Spend the day exploring Sentosa Island
Sentosa is a small island in Singapore with many attractions, including themed parks, sandy beaches and resort hotels. You can spend the entire day at Sentosa and don’t have to pay a thing!
Visit the beaches along the south part of the island, including Tanjong Beach and Palawan Beach. Watch the light and sound show Magical Shores at Siloso Beach when the sun goes down.
Follow the signs for Imbiah Trail where the hiking path will lead you to the west end of the island. Along the way, you come across Tempinis Cascade (waterfall) and a lookout point.
Also, visit Fort Siloso Skywalk, an 11-storey high walkway to Fort Siloso, a well-preserved fort used for defence.
Other free activities at Sentosa are perfect for any solo traveller. Check the website for the latest free activities at Sentosa.
Address: Sentosa, Singapore | Hours: 24 hours | MRT Station: HarbourFront (CC29/NE1)
21. Visit the southernmost point of continental Asia
At the southern tip of Sentosa Island is Palawan Beach is where you can find the southernmost point of continental Asia.
To visit the southernmost point, walk over the suspended bridge to the little islet. There are two viewing towers and a viewing deck. And this is where you can see the expansive view of the South China Sea.
Try to time your visit to the southernmost point around sunset. The view is quite magical!
Address: Sentosa, Singapore | Hours: 24 hours | MRT Station: HarbourFront (CC29/NE1)
Where to stay in Singapore as a solo traveller
There are many things to do alone in Singapore so you might want to stay in the city for a few days. Below are some of my favourite boutique hotels in Singapore for solo travellers:
- Lloyd’s Inn Singapore ($$) – a small minimalist boutique hotel near Orchard Road. I wrote a full review of Lloyd’s Inn Singapore on why I love this hotel.
- Check prices & reviews: Agoda
- Wanderlust ($$) – a boutique hotel in a 1920s Art Deco building in Little India.
- Check prices & reviews: Agoda
- The Warehouse Hotel ($$$) – the most luxurious boutique hotel in Clarke Quay.
- Check prices & reviews: Agoda
Interested in other events and tours in Singapore?
Singapore is the perfect destination to be a minimalist traveller. Learn how to pack a 7kg carry-on luggage by following my minimalist travel packing list
Which of these places to go alone in Singapore are you most interested in seeing?
I hope all of them because they are fun activities and are completely free! And there are plenty more free things to do in Singapore alone. I’ll update the list as I find them!
And don’t feel intimidated by travelling solo in Singapore because the city is a lot of fun and you don’t have to spend a lot in this expensive city. And you can see everything by following my 2-day Singapore itinerary I show you how to get around the city and eat cheap Michelin-level Singaporean food.
I hope you like my post on my favourite free things you can do in Singapore. All the solo activities I mentioned in this blog (unless indicated) are free! So get out there and see the city!
Thank you for reading my Singapore solo travel post
You might also like these other posts:
Singapore posts:
- Singapore solo travel guide for first time travellers
- How to spend 2 days in Singapore
- Where to stay in Singapore
- Lloyd’s Inn Singapore hotel review
- 10 best hiking trails in Singapore
- Gardens by the Bay attractions and itinerary
- 10 best instagrammable places in Singapore
- 9 neighbourhoods to find street art in Singapore
- Singapore food culture: 21 must-try food
- Where to eat Michelin star street food in Singapore
- Top 8 food souvenirs from Singapore
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