We all know Singapore has a reputation for being pricey—it is one of the world’s most expensive cities, after all. But I’m here to let you in on a secret: you absolutely can experience the culture, the local food, and the marvellous sights without breaking the bank.
I’ve put together a tested three-day itinerary packed with free activities and local gems, keeping your average daily cost to about S$50 (excluding accommodation and flights). Whether you’re travelling with family or enjoying a rewarding solo adventure, this guide will get you straight to the valuable, actionable advice you need.
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Table of Contents
The Savvy Traveller’s Toolkit
Before you land, sorting out the basics will save you money and stress, freeing up your budget for enjoying the trip.
Insurance: Travel smart, not unprotected. SafetyWings is affordable, reliable, and simple to set up for peace of mind.
Visas: Unsure if you need one? iVisa makes the process straightforward.
Connectivity: Don’t get caught out by expensive roaming charges. I rely on an e-sim from Airalo—it’s the most affordable and easy way to stay connected while travelling.
Budget Accommodation & Getting Around
Singapore’s public transport is fast, reliable, and mercifully air-conditioned. Stick to the MRT and frequent buses using an Ezlink card or credit card to keep costs low. While Grab is useful, avoid peak hours when prices can double or triple.
For affordable stays near the action, the Hotel Chancellor at Orchard is a fantastic choice for its central location and easy access to transport. If you prefer a hotel that includes breakfast, consider Mercure Singapore on Stevens.
Your 3-Day Budget Adventure Highlights
My itinerary focuses on free, high-value experiences, ensuring you don’t miss any key sights:
Day 1: Sentosa & Supertrees
Skip the monorail fee by walking the bridge to Sentosa Island. Enjoy a free jungle or coastal walk before heading to the beach for a swim. In the evening, the Supertree Grove Light Show at Gardens by the Bay is a daily must-see and completely free.
Day 2: Local Culture
Take the local bumboat (around S$4, cash only) to Pulau Ubin for a brilliant day of cycling and exploring a piece of old Singapore. Finish your day exploring the colourful streets and vibrant night atmosphere of Little India.
Day 3: History & Hawkers
Explore Chinatown for cheap souvenirs, murals, and temples. This is where you’ll find the best budget food! Head to the hawker centres at Chinatown Complex or Maxwell Food Centre where dishes can be as little as S$2.50.
Expert Tip: Always carry a water bottle for hydration, a small umbrella, and small tissue packets (crucial for reserving your seat at the hawker markets!). If you want to dive deeper into Singapore’s unique history and culture, I highly recommend booking local tours via Get Your Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Singapore is an accessible and rewarding destination that proves luxury isn’t always about the price tag—it’s about the experience and the memories you make.
If you are planning a trip to Singapore and would like personalised advice based on my years of expat experience here, consider booking a private consultation with me to tailor your perfect itinerary:
Schedule time with meFollow along on Instagram where I share real-time travel updates, behind-the-scenes moments from tours, and daily life in Singapore. Join the Truly Expat Facebook community—a supportive space for women travellers to ask questions, share tips, and connect before trips.
Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you—this helps me keep creating free, detailed travel guides. I only recommend services and products I genuinely use and trust after years of travel across Asia. Read my full affiliate disclosure.
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