Getting to Singapore on a Budget

First things first—flights.

Depending on where you're flying from, Singapore may seem far, but it's one of Southeast Asia’s best-connected hubs. To get the best deals, book early and be flexible with your travel dates.

Quick tip: Use platforms like CheapTickets, Trips.com, or Booking.com to compare flight prices and set alerts.

Budget airlines like Scoot, AirAsia, and Jetstar also offer great regional fares if you’re traveling from nearby countries like Malaysia or Indonesia.

What about the Singapore visa?

Most nationalities can enter visa-free for short stays (14 to 90 days), but it’s always best to check the official ICA website before you go.

Make Changi Airport Your First Attraction

Singapore’s Changi Airport isn’t just an airport—it’s a destination.

• Jewel Changi: The world’s tallest indoor waterfall, lush indoor forest, and light shows (all free to access)

• Canopy Park: Affordable entry for kids to explore mazes, bouncing nets, and foggy bowls

• Play areas & movie theatres: Perfect if you’ve got time before your hotel check-in

.Trust me, your kids won’t want to leave the airport.

Where to Stay – Budget-Friendly Singapore Hotels

Accommodations in Singapore can eat up your travel funds fast, but there are some solid, family-friendly budget hotels that offer great value.

Here are a few we loved (or had recommended to us):

Hotel Boss (Lavender/Little India)

• Family rooms, rooftop pool, near MRT

• Close to Little India for cheap food and cultural walks
  👉 Check prices on Hotellook

YOTEL Singapore Orchard

• Sleek, compact rooms with futuristic vibes

• Close to shops and attractions, but more affordable than big-name hotels
  👉 Book via Booking.com

The Pod Boutique Capsule Hotel

• A unique stay with private pods and free breakfast

• Quiet, clean, and ideal for older kids or teens
  👉 View deals on Hotels.com

Free and Fun Attractions for Kids in Singapore

Now the good stuff—what to actually do for free.

Gardens by the Bay

You don’t have to pay for the domes to enjoy the magic. Wander the Supertree Grove, splash in the Children’s Garden, and catch the nightly Garden Rhapsody light show—all free.

Merlion Park

Grab that must-have family photo with Singapore’s famous half-fish, half-lion statue and enjoy the waterfront views.

Marina Bay Promenade

Take a walk, let the kids run around, and catch the Spectra Light Show outside Marina Bay Sands—it’s totally free and happens nightly.

Singapore Botanic Gardens

It’s huge, beautiful, and free to enter. Let the kids explore the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden—a nature-inspired playground and learning zone just for little ones.

Little India & Chinatown

From colorful temples to quirky murals, these cultural districts are free to explore and full of photo ops. It’s a great way to show your kids the diversity of Singapore people and traditions.

Where to Eat: Delicious & Dirt-Cheap Family Food

Don’t fall for the overpriced cafés—hawker centers are your best friend. You’ll find everything from noodles to fresh juices for under $5 SGD.

Top picks:

• Maxwell Food Centre – near Chinatown, great Hainanese chicken rice

• Tekka Centre – in Little India, perfect for curry and roti

• Lau Pa Sat – a bit more touristy, but atmospheric and open late

Want a sit-down Singapore restaurant that’s still affordable?

Try:

• Hawker Chan – Michelin-star chicken rice (yep, that’s a thing)

• Tim Ho Wan – tasty dim sum without the luxury price tag

• Toast Box – Singapore-style breakfast the kids will love

Getting Around: Cheap and Easy Public Transport

Forget taxis. Singapore’s MRT system is a dream—clean, fast, stroller-friendly, and air-conditioned.

Budget tip:

Grab an EZ-Link Card or Singapore Tourist Pass for unlimited rides on buses and trains. Kids under 7 ride free with a child concession card!

Also, apps like Grab are great for affordable car rides if you’re headed somewhere MRT doesn’t reach.

More Kid-Approved (But Affordable) Fun

Looking for low-cost activities the kids will love?

Singapore Science Centre

Interactive exhibits, a water play area, and budget-friendly entry tickets make this a winner.

East Coast Park

Rent bikes and hit the beach, or just enjoy the playgrounds and BBQ spots.

Singapore River Cruise

Hop on a bumboat and cruise the river—way more budget-friendly than most tourist tours.

Free Museum Days

Check out museums like the National Gallery Singapore or the Asian Civilisations Museum—they often have free admission days or family programs.

Budget Souvenirs & Markets

Skip the fancy malls and head for street markets instead.

• Bugis Street – clothes, gadgets, snacks

• Chinatown Street Market – perfect for souvenirs

• Little India Arcade – colorful trinkets and traditional toys

Tip: Bargaining is minimal in Singapore, but these spots offer better prices than airport shops or Orchard Road.

Safety, Culture & Local Tips

Singapore is one of the safest countries in the world—a huge plus when traveling with kids.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• No chewing gum on public transport

• MRT etiquette: Let others off before getting on, keep your volume down

• The locals are friendly and helpful—don’t hesitate to ask for directions

Singapore is proudly multicultural, so it’s a great place to introduce your kids to diverse cultures and languages in one city.

Bonus Day Trips (That Won’t Break the Bank)

Sentosa Island

The beaches are free! Walk the Sentosa Boardwalk (also free), and explore Fort Siloso Skywalk.

Pulau Ubin

Take a bumboat ($3) to this island paradise and rent bikes for a ride through mangroves and kampongs. It’s a step back in time—and a fun nature escape for kids.

You can book affordable, self-guided audio tours via WeGoTrip. After purchase, you'll get a link to download their app and access your tour right on your smartphone—perfect for exploring at your own pace with kids in tow.

Final Tips for Budget Family Fun in Singapore

• Bring refillable water bottles (Singapore tap water is safe!)

• Visit attractions in the morning to avoid crowds and heat

• Plan ahead and check if places offer free entry days

• Use a VPN like NordVPN when booking flights or hotels online for region-based deals

Ready to Explore Singapore on a Family Budget?

Don’t let the glossy skyscrapers fool you—Singapore can absolutely be done on a budget. From lush gardens to hawker centers and cultural neighborhoods, there’s no shortage of free and cheap things to do with kids.

So grab those EZ-Link cards, pack light, and start planning.

👉 Book your budget-friendly Singapore adventure now:

• Flights on CheapTickets

• Hotels via Hotellook

• Travel Insurance with World Nomads

• Airport Transfers with Welcome Pickups

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