Hawker centres, ethnic neighborhoods, free gardens and a unique cultural mix: budget Singapore is possible.
Although Singapore has a reputation for being expensive, it is surprisingly affordable if you know where to look. Hawker centres offer the world's best food for 3-5 SGD, gardens are free, and ethnic neighborhoods are a costless cultural festival.
Itinerary
Chinatown & hawker centres
- Kaya toast and kopi breakfast at Ya Kun (3 SGD)
- Explore Chinatown Heritage Centre
- Lunch at Chinatown Complex (largest hawker centre: chicken rice for 3 SGD)
- Visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
- Free sunset from Henderson Waves Bridge
- Dinner at Maxwell Food Centre (Tian Tian Chicken Rice)
Little India & Kampong Glam
- Roti prata breakfast in Little India (2 SGD)
- Explore Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
- Walk through the colorful streets of Haji Lane
- Lunch in Kampong Glam (budget Arab cuisine)
- Free visit to the Sultan Mosque
- Dinner at Tekka Centre (biryani for 5 SGD)
Gardens by the Bay & Marina Bay
- Free walk through Gardens by the Bay (Supertree Grove)
- Merlion Park and skyline photos (free)
- Lunch at Lau Pa Sat (satay for 5 SGD)
- Esplanade and bay walk
- Free Spectra light show at Marina Bay
- Dinner at a Boat Quay hawker centre
East Coast & farewell
- Bike ride along East Coast Park (budget rental)
- Breakfast at East Coast Lagoon Food Village
- Free beach and relaxation
- Laksa lunch in Katong (Peranakan neighborhood)
- Explore the colorful Joo Chiat neighborhood
- Final dinner at Old Airport Road Food Centre
Practical Tips
Hawker centres
They are your best ally. Complete meals for 3-6 SGD. Look for stalls with long queues: a sign of quality.
Transport
Buy an EZ-Link card for the MRT (metro). A trip costs 1-2 SGD. Walking is viable as the city is compact.
Free water
Tap water in Singapore is drinkable. Carry a reusable bottle to save money.
Free activities
Gardens by the Bay (outdoor), all temples, Henderson Waves, Spectra show, Merlion Park and beaches are free.
Approximate Budget
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you eat well and cheap in Singapore?
Yes! Hawker centres are UNESCO heritage and offer exceptional food for 3-6 SGD. There are even Michelin-starred stalls.
Is Singapore safe for backpackers?
It is one of the safest countries in the world. You can walk at night without issues. Just respect the rules (no gum, no smoking in prohibited areas).
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