Singapore has a reputation for being expensive, but that's only true if you don't plan. We've done Singapore on a shoestring more than once, and it's entirely possible to see the best of the city for under S$200 per person across three days — attractions, food and transport included. Here's exactly how.
Day 1: Free Icons
Start with the free stuff, because Singapore has more of it than people expect. The Merlion Park is free, Spectra (the light and water show at Marina Bay) is free and runs nightly, and the outdoor gardens at Gardens by the Bay cost nothing to wander — you only pay if you enter the domes (from S$10, and honestly worth the splurge if your budget has any room).
Day 1 spend: S$10 (domes) + S$15 hawker meals x2 = ~S$40.
Day 2: One Paid Attraction, Rest Free
Pick one paid highlight for the day and build free activities around it. We chose Night Safari (from S$22) — it's genuinely one of the best-value paid attractions in Singapore and doesn't compete with free daytime plans since it only opens in the evening.
During the day, the Southern Ridges trail (Kent Ridge to Mount Faber, via the Henderson Waves bridge) is completely free and gives you some of the best green-and-skyline views in the city, entirely on foot.
Day 2 spend: S$22 (Night Safari) + S$3 MRT + S$15 hawker meals = ~S$40.
Day 3: Orchid Garden and Hawker Crawl
The National Orchid Garden (from S$15) inside the free Botanic Gardens is our top budget recommendation — it's a fraction of the price of the bigger attractions but just as photogenic, and the Botanic Gardens itself (UNESCO-listed) costs nothing to enter.
Spend the rest of the day hawker-hopping — Maxwell Food Centre, Chinatown Complex, and Tiong Bahru Market are all cheap, delicious, and a genuine cultural experience, not just a budget compromise.
Day 3 spend: S$15 (Orchid Garden) + S$20 hawker food (splurge a little on your last day) = ~S$35.
Budget Breakdown Table
| Category | Cost (3 days) |
|---|---|
| Attractions (domes, Night Safari, Orchid Garden) | S$47 |
| Food (hawker centres, 2-3 meals/day) | S$90 |
| MRT/bus transport | S$20 |
| Buffer/snacks/drinks | S$30 |
| Total | ~S$187 |
Money-Saving Tips
- Use an EZ-Link card for MRT/bus — cheaper than single-trip tickets and works everywhere.
- Hawker centres beat restaurants — a full, filling meal is typically S$4-8, versus S$20+ at a sit-down restaurant.
- Free shows count: Spectra at Marina Bay and the Garden Rhapsody light show at Gardens by the Bay are both free and genuinely spectacular — don't skip them thinking "free means lesser."
- Book combo tickets where available — bundled attraction tickets are almost always cheaper than buying separately.
See everything Singapore has to offer without blowing your budget — book Night Safari and National Orchid Garden tickets on HolidaySG.
Recommended Singapore Tours and Experiences
Singapore packs world-class attractions into a compact city-state. From thrilling theme parks on Sentosa Island to iconic skyline experiences, these are the must-book experiences that locals and seasoned visitors swear by.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to visit Singapore?
A: Singapore is a year-round destination thanks to its tropical climate. However, avoid the haze season (August-October) if possible. December to January brings festive lights and slightly cooler evenings.
Q: Do I need a visa for Singapore?
A: Citizens of most countries get visa-free entry for 30-90 days. Check the ICA website or our visa requirements page for your specific nationality.
Q: How do I get around Singapore?
A: The MRT (subway) is fast, clean, and covers all major attractions. Use a contactless card or buy an EZ-Link/Tourist Pass at any station. Grab is the go-to ride-hailing app.
Q: Is Singapore expensive?
A: Attractions and hotels can be pricey, but hawker centres serve excellent meals for S$3-6. Booking tickets online in advance often saves 10-20% versus gate prices.
Q: What should I not miss in Singapore?
A: Gardens by the Bay Supertree light show (free), a hawker centre meal, Marina Bay Sands skypark, and at least one Sentosa attraction are the essentials for a first visit.
Recommended Experiences
Here are some top-rated experiences you can book in advance to make the most of your trip: