Singapore Travel Guide for the Budget Conscious Traveller
Welcome to Singapore, the vibrant city-state known for its stunning skyline and rich cultural tapestry. This guide will help you maximise your two-day stay without breaking the bank, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this Southeast Asian gem.
Planning your trip? Here are some of my favourites!
E-sim – I have been using Airalo all around the world
Airline Tickets – For a great deal, try CheapOair.
Car Hire – DiscoverCars is the perfect solution
Travel Insurance – Safetywings is both affordable and reliable
Visa—If you aren’t sure if you need one, Ivisa makes the process easy.
How To Visit Singapore On A Budget
Singapore is known for its reputation as an expensive city, but with careful planning, it can also be enjoyed on a budget. While it’s true that luxury experiences overflow, there are plenty of affordable attractions and options for budget-conscious travellers.
By prioritising free or low-cost activities, utilising public transport, and opting for budget accommodations and dining at hawker centres, exploring this vibrant city-state is feasible without breaking the bank. With its stunning skyline, rich cultural tapestry, and delicious street food, Singapore offers a memorable experience for every traveller, regardless of budget.
Best Season to Visit Singapore
Singapore boasts a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season from February to April, when humidity is lower and outdoor activities are more enjoyable. This time also offers various local festivals, giving you a taste of Singaporean culture.
How to Get to Singapore
Getting to Singapore is straightforward, with Changi Airport being one of the best-connected airports in Southeast Asia. Budget airlines frequently operate from many regional destinations. Always check for deals to save money on your flight, and consider booking well in advance for the best rates.
AirAsia: AirAsia operates budget flights to Singapore from various Asian destinations, including Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and Jakarta. (This airline is based in Malaysia)
Scoot: Scoot, a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, offers affordable flights to Singapore from cities such as Perth, Sydney, and Osaka, making it a popular choice for budget travellers. (This airline is based in Singapore)
Cebu Pacific: Cebu Pacific is another excellent option for budget-friendly flights to Singapore. They operate flights from various destinations in the Philippines, as well as from other Southeast Asian countries. (This airline is based in the Phillipines)
Jetstar Asia: Jetstar Asia provides budget-friendly flights to Singapore from cities like Manila, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hong Kong, catering to travellers looking for economical travel options to the city-state. (This airline is based in Singapore)
Lion Air: Lion Air provides budget-friendly flights to Singapore from various Southeast Asian destinations, offering another economical travel option to the city-state. (This airline is based in Indonesia)
Vietjet: Vietjet offers budget-friendly flights to Singapore and is known for its extensive network covering domestic and international routes. (This airline is based in Vietnam)
Zipair: Zipair is a low-cost airline based in Japan that offers affordable flights to various destinations, including Singapore. (Zipair is based in Japan)
How to Get Around Singapore
Singapore’s public transport system is both affordable and efficient. The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) connects significant attractions, making it easy to navigate the city. A Singapore Tourist Pass can save you money on unlimited travel for a day. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also available, but public transport is the best option for budget travel.
For more extensive details on public transport, check out the article on getting around Singapore.
Where to Stay in Singapore
Hostels and budget hotels are abundant for budget-conscious travellers. Consider staying in areas like Chinatown or Little India for more affordable options. Look for places that offer both comfort and convenience, such as the Lyf chain or the Hotel 81 series, which are well-rated.
Budget-Friendly Hotel Options:
1. Lyf Funan – LYF Funan is an excellent place for budget-conscious travellers to stay. Located in the heart of the city, Funan is a vibrant area that offers a mix of entertainment, shopping, and dining options. Staying at LYF Funan allows guests to be within walking distance of attractions such as Clarke Quay, Marina Bay, and the Singapore River.
Additionally, the area is well-connected to public transportation, making exploring other parts of the city convenient. With its modern and innovative co-living concept, LYF Funan provides comfortable and affordable accommodations.
- Address: 67 Hill Street, City Hall, 179370 Singapore
2. The Pod @ Beach Road – Situated in the Kampong Glam area, The Pod @ Beach Road provides a unique and affordable accommodation experience. Kampong Glam is known for its rich Malay heritage, colourful shophouses, and diverse dining options.
Staying in this area allows you to explore the nearby Arab Street, Haji Lane, and Sultan Mosque while also enjoying the budget-friendly eateries and trendy cafes that line the streets.
- Address: 289 Beach Road, #03-01, Kampong Glam, 199552
3. Hotel 81 Dickson – Hotel 81 Dickson offers budget-friendly accommodation in Little India’s lively and culturally rich district. Staying in Little India allows you to immerse yourself in the area’s bustling atmosphere, vibrant street markets, and authentic Indian cuisine at affordable prices.
The neighbourhood is also well-connected by public transport, allowing you to explore other parts of Singapore without spending a fortune.
- Address: 3 Dickson Road, Little India, 209530 Singapore
4. Ibis Budget Singapore Joo Chiat – Ibis Budget Singapore Joo Chiat offers comfortable and affordable accommodation in the heart of the culturally rich Joo Chiat neighbourhood. This area is a great place to stay because it immerses you in Singapore’s vibrant Peranakan heritage, characterised by colourful shophouses, intricate architecture, and delicious local food.
Joo Chiat is known for its vibrant street art, bustling markets, and proximity to East Coast Park. These provide a perfect blend of cultural immersion and recreational activities for travellers looking to explore the authentic side of Singapore.
- Address: 219 Joo Chiat Road, 427485 Singapore,
5. Hotel Calmo Chinatown – Hotel Calmo Chinatown is an excellent choice for accommodation due to its prime location in the heart of Chinatown, Singapore. This area is a great place to stay because of its vibrant atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and convenient access to various attractions.
At Hotel Calmo Chinatown, guests can explore the lively Chinatown Street Market, savour authentic local cuisine at hawker centres, and visit historical landmarks such as Thian Hock Keng Temple and Buddha Tooth Relic Temple with its dynamic ambience and proximity to various points of interest.
- Address: 25 Trengganu Street, Chinatown, 058476 Singapore
Food Experiences in Singapore
Food is a highlight of any trip to Singapore. Dive into local culinary delights at hawker centres, where you can find a range of delicious dishes from $5. Don’t miss trying the iconic Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel for a splurge, but remember, street food is the way to go if you want to save money. Be sure to visit places like Maxwell Food Centre and Lau Pa Sat for an authentic taste of Singapore. Things to try –
- Economical rice
- Hainanese Chicken Rice
- Laksa
- Char Kway Teow
- Roti Prata
- Satay
- Chili Crab
- Bak Chor Mee
- Kaya Toast
- Ice Kacang
- Kopi (Traditional Singaporean Coffee)
Pick Supermarkets Over Convenience Stores
While convenience stores might seem appealing, you’ll save money by shopping at local supermarkets like FairPrice or Cold Storage. These stores offer a wide range of groceries and snacks at better prices, perfect for grabbing supplies for your adventures or enjoying a picnic in one of the city’s many parks.
Try Fair Price supermarket at Centerpoint on Orchard or Clarke Quay, as they have a food court and bar inside these venues.
Budget Tips for Singapore
Prioritise free or low-cost activities: Singapore offers many free attractions, such as Gardens by the Bay, Marina Barrage, and various cultural neighbourhoods. Focusing on these can help you save money.
Take advantage of free attractions and events: Singapore often hosts free events and festivals. Check the local calendar for such opportunities.
Use ride-sharing apps: If you can not take public transport and must catch a taxi. Instead of spending money on taxis, consider using ride-sharing apps for cost-effective transportation within the city.
Plan your budget: Set a daily budget and plan your activities to ensure you stick to your spending limits. Our Singapore travel guide contains all the necessary budget planning tools. There are many tools to help you plan and budget for your Singapore vacation.
Purchase an Esim: When visiting Singapore, consider purchasing an eSIM for your mobile device. Airalo offers affordable and convenient eSIM plans for everyone, allowing you to easily access data and make calls without the hassle of purchasing a physical SIM card upon arrival.
Drink the Tap Water: Save money by drinking safe tap water in Singapore. Fill up your water bottle at the hotel before heading out, or look for water stations around the city to stay hydrated while exploring.
Free Activities You Won’t Want to Miss
1. Explore Gardens by the Bay and marvel at the Supertree Grove and the stunning Cloud Forest and Flower Dome conservatories.
- Paid Option: For convenience, you can purchase tickets for Gardens by the Bay at the entrance or online.
2. Visit the iconic Merlion Park and enjoy breathtaking views of the Marina Bay waterfront and the city skyline.
- Paid Option: The Singapore River cruise allows you another view of this iconic statue in Singapore.
3. Immerse yourself in Singapore’s diverse culture by strolling through the vibrant neighbourhoods of Chinatown and Little India, soaking in the rich heritage and sampling local street food.
4. Take a leisurely walk along the Southern Ridges, a 10-kilometer trail that offers panoramic views of the city, lush greenery, and the Henderson Waves bridge.
5. Enjoy a free light and water show at the Marina Bay Sands’ Spectra, a captivating display of dancing fountains, music, and lights set against the backdrop of the city skyline.
6. Discover the colourful and eclectic Haji Lane, known for its vibrant street art, quirky shops, and cozy cafes.
7. Explore the bustling Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and revel in the tranquillity of its lush landscapes, serene lakes, and diverse flora.
- Paid Option: Walking tour and entrance into Orchard Garden
8. Unwind at the East Coast Park, a popular seaside destination offering scenic beaches, cycling paths, barbecue pits, and stunning coastline views.
9. Visit the National Gallery of Singapore, which offers free admission to its permanent galleries showcasing the country’s history, culture, and heritage.
- Paid Option: There are also paid exhibitions within the National Gallery that might interest you.
10. Experience the sights and sounds of the bustling Lau Pa Sat hawker centre, where you can sample a wide array of affordable local dishes and immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary scene.
11. Head out on a walk: Singapore has many trails to try, from Fort Canning to Sentosa. There are also many parks that are great places to explore.
Thanks for taking the time to read this article. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips or advice, I would love for you to share them in the comment section below!
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