A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ayutthaya vs. Singapore for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Ayutthaya or Singapore?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Singapore? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a popular, historical, and cultural city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Ayutthaya travel costs.

Singapore

Singapore is a colorful, glitzy, and modern city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Singapore is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Singapore travel costs.

Ayutthaya and Singapore: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Ayutthaya or Singapore?

You'll generally find more things to do in Singapore than Ayutthaya. Singapore is bigger than Ayutthaya, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Singapore is better known for its food, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Ayutthaya is more popular for its historical sights. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Singapore and is known for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. Singapore is well known for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets. Also, Singapore is famous for Merlion Park Waterfront.

How is Ayutthaya different from Singapore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Singapore and Ayutthaya. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ayutthaya or Singapore?

Ayutthaya
Singapore

Both Ayutthaya and Singapore have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

Ayutthaya offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. These large and impressive ruins are among the most visited in Thailand. This is in large part because of their easy access from Bangkok. Highlights of the historical park include Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the Royal Chapel, Wat Ratchaburana, and Vihara Phra Mongkol Bophi.

Many visitors head to Singapore specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The mix of cultures and unique history have led to museums and landmarks that mix historic and modern. The Merlion statue in Merlion Park has become a symbol of the city. For an educational experience, head to the Asian Civilizations Museum, and to see colonial architecture check out Fort Canning Park.


Is the Food Better in Ayutthaya or Singapore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ayutthaya
Singapore

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Singapore is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. From local dives to five star restaurants, the city's food scene is all about diversity. Make sure you try Hainanese chicken rice, chili crab, and Hokkien prawn mee.

Ayutthaya has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The local cuisine makes use of the area's freshwater fish, green vegetables, and river prawns. Dishes often include rice noodles and a spicy sauce. There are many restaurants that cater to the tourist crowds but still serve high quality dishes.

Is Ayutthaya or Singapore Better for Nightlife?

Ayutthaya
Singapore

Evening events are notable in both Ayutthaya and Singapore.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Ayutthaya. There are a number of bars and nightclubs that keep things lively well into the evening.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Singapore. It's all about the glitzy nightclubs and exclusive cocktail bars. Head to Clarke Quay, Marina Bay Sands, or one of the many rooftop bars to experience the best of Singapore's nightlife. Do keep in mind that the city has a high alcohol tax, and strict rules around drinking in public places during certain hours.

Is Ayutthaya or Singapore Better for Music?

Ayutthaya
Singapore

Singapore is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Ayutthaya is not a live music destination.

Singapore is a world class music destination. As a globalized city, you'll find almost any type of music here. Popular music venues include Timbre, Zouk, and the Crazy Elephant.

Ayutthaya is not a live music destination.


Is Ayutthaya or Singapore Better for Resorts?

Ayutthaya
Singapore

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Ayutthaya is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Singapore is a great choice. From sleek high rises with rooftop pools to family-friendly resorts with kid oriented activities, this city has it all. Popular resorts include Oasia Resort Sentosa, Dusit Thani Laguna, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Ayutthaya is not a resort destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Singapore Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ayutthaya
Singapore

Singapore is not a good place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ayutthaya is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Singapore isn't the best spot for snorkeling. The best place to snorkel in the area is Pulau Hantu.

Ayutthaya is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Singapore Better for Beaches?

Ayutthaya
Singapore

Singapore is a popular place for its beaches. However, Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Singapore is a good option for a beach vacation. You'll find most of the area's best beaches on Sentosa Island. There's a 2 kilometer long artificial beach that is split into Palawan Beach, Siloso Beach, and Tanjong Beach.

Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.


Is Ayutthaya or Singapore Better for its Old Town?

Ayutthaya
Singapore

Ayutthaya is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Singapore does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya Historical Park includes 425 archaeological sites that are both inside the city walls, as well as outside.

Singapore does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Ayutthaya or Singapore?

Ayutthaya
Singapore

Singapore is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Singapore is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find tons of malls along Orchard Road, but for a more eclectic shopping experience head to the Chinatown Street Market.

Ayutthaya is well-known for its shopping. There are some great shopping areas around the town that specialize in local handicrafts such as pottery, wicker weaving, and stone masonry. Some of the most interesting places include the Ayutthaya Floating Market and the Ayutthaya Night Market.

Is Ayutthaya or Singapore More Beautiful?

Ayutthaya
Singapore

Singapore is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Ayutthaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Singapore is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It is a beautiful city with many lights and colorful neighborhoods.

Ayutthaya is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Ayutthaya or Singapore Better for Families?

Ayutthaya
Singapore

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Singapore is a very family-friendly destination. With places like Sentosa and Universal Studios, there really is no shortage of activities for kids. There's also a zoo, an aquarium, and bird park, and many kid-friendly museums.

Ayutthaya is a family-friendly city. Families will appreciate how easy it is to reach Ayutthaya from Bangkok. The historical ruins are fun for both kids and adults, but the sites are very spread out and you'll need to hire a tuk tuk to see everything. The roads can be crowded and distances far, so biking isn't recommended with kids.

Is Ayutthaya or Singapore Better for Couples?

Ayutthaya
Singapore

Singapore is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Singapore makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The city has stunning hotels, amazing restaurants, and plenty of fun activities that are perfect for couples.

Ayutthaya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The historical ruins make an easy day trip from Bangkok, so couples who appreciate history and iconic temples will appreciate a visit here.

Is Ayutthaya or Singapore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ayutthaya
Singapore

Singapore is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Singapore is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers use this city as a starting or ending point for their Southeast Asian backpacking trip. It's modern and glamourous, but still has plenty of backpacker-friendly and budget-friendly options.

Many backpackers visit Ayutthaya. The historic temples are popular with all tourists, including backpackers who often visit as a day trip from Bangkok.


Is Ayutthaya or Singapore Better for Students?

Ayutthaya
Singapore

Singapore is a must-visit destination for students. However, Ayutthaya is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Singapore. As such a diverse city, you'll find plenty of international students as well as expats to hang out with.

Ayutthaya is not popular with students.

Is Ayutthaya or Singapore Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ayutthaya
Singapore

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Singapore has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There is the MRT subway system as well as buses that travel all over the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ayutthaya. There are organized tours and private tuk tuks for hire that will take you to the various temples. There are also bicycles available for rent, but roads can be crowded.

Is Ayutthaya or Singapore a more walkable city?

Ayutthaya
Singapore

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its walkability. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Singapore on foot. It's possible to walk in most areas in the city center. There are also park connectors that are nice for taking a stroll or going for a run.

Ayutthaya is not a very walkable city. The historic sites are spread out over a vast area and you must have some form of transportation to reach everything. Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Wat Chaiwatthanaram and Wat Phutthai Sawan are the furthest apart. Everywhere else can be accessed on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Ayutthaya Worth Visiting? and Is Singapore Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Singapore or Ayutthaya?

How long in Ayutthaya or Singapore?

Both Ayutthaya and Singapore have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Singapore than in Ayutthaya. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Ayutthaya, and 2-7 days is enough time in Singapore.

Families should spend more time in Singapore than Ayutthaya. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Singapore, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Singapore than Ayutthaya. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Singapore that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Singapore than Ayutthaya if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Singapore.


  • How many days in Ayutthaya or Singapore? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ayutthaya 1-2 
    Singapore 2-7

One day in Ayutthaya or Singapore?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Ayutthaya. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ayutthaya has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

People visit Singapore because there is so much to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Ayutthaya or Singapore?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Ayutthaya. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

People visit Singapore because there is so much to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Ayutthaya or Singapore?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Ayutthaya. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

People visit Singapore because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.


A week in Ayutthaya or Singapore?

Ayutthaya is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Singapore is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Singapore, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Singapore, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Singapore.


Which place is cheaper, Singapore or Ayutthaya?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Ayutthaya is $86, while the average daily cost in Singapore is $179. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Ayutthaya and Singapore in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ayutthaya $24
    Singapore $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ayutthaya $48
    Singapore $202
Compare Hotels in Ayutthaya and Singapore

Looking for a hotel in Ayutthaya or Singapore? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Ayutthaya


Hotels in Singapore


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Ayutthaya Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ayutthaya $29
    Singapore $11
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Ayutthaya

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Ayutthaya are as follows:


  • River Ferry Crossing
    $0.63

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Singapore

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Singapore:


  • Taxi to Airport
    $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Singapore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Singapore:

  • Attractions Shared Transfers from Hotel: $12
  • Changi Airport (SIN) Private One-Way Transfer: $23
  • Changi Airport (SIN) Private Transfer to Singapore/Johor Bahru: $24
  • Private Transfer: Singapore to Sentosa Island: $26
  • Private Airport Transfer in Singapore: $29
  • Changi Airport to/from Hotel Private Transfer: $29
  • Singapore Changi Airport: Singapore Private Airport Transfer: $30
  • Marina Bay Cruise Centre or SCC to Changi Airport Transfer: $30
  • City Experience + Roundtrip Transfers: $31
  • Private Attraction Transfers for Singapore: $31
  • Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) to Singapore - Arrival Private Transfer: $32
  • Singapore Airport: Shared Arrival or Departure Car Transfer : $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Ayutthaya or Singapore?

Prices for flights to both Singapore and Ayutthaya change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Ayutthaya $39
    Singapore $50
Typical Food Prices in Ayutthaya

Some typical examples of dining costs in Ayutthaya are as follows:


  • Lunch for 2
    $4.40
  • Ice Cream
    $0.94
  • Breakfast for 2
    $4.40
  • Breakfast for 2
    $11

Typical Food Prices in Singapore

Some typical examples of dining costs in Singapore are as follows:


  • Breakfast
    $4.75
  • Sugarcane Juice
    $1.56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Singapore

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Singapore.

  • Secrets of Singapore Kick Scooter Tour with Dinner: $53
  • Chinatown Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $54
  • Secrets of Singapore Kick Scooter Tour with Dinner: $55
  • Singapore Food Tours - Chinatown Complex Hawker: $58
  • Authentic Singapore Street Food Tour: $60
  • Plant-Based Food Tour with Local Guide: $61
  • Small Group: Michelin and Local Hawker Food Tour: $68
  • Hawker Center Street Food Tour with Guide: $68
  • Guided Street Food Tour at Night: $74
  • Local Hawker Food Tour with Tastings: $74
  • Hawker Culture Food Tour and Sightseeing: $75
  • Eat and Snap in Chinatown Walking Food Tour: $76

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ayutthaya $31
    Singapore $34
Typical Entertainment Prices in Ayutthaya

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Ayutthaya are as follows:


  • Temple Entrances (2)
    $6.28
  • Wat Entrance
    $1.57

Tours and Activities in Singapore

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Singapore are as follows:

  • Artoholic A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.00
  • Follow the Money: A self-guided audio tour of Singapore's Financial District: $5.00
  • Science Center E-Ticket: $6.43
  • Peranakan Museum Admission Ticket: $6.51
  • The Civic District with Singapore Boy Hossan Leong: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Indian Heritage Centre Entrance Ticket: $7.75
  • Gardens by the Bay Bundle Entry Ticket: $7.75
  • Outdoor Audio Tour at Gardens by the Bay: $8.23
  • BikingSG Best of Take in the sights on a relaxed audio cycling tour: $8.31
  • National Orchid Garden Entry Tickets: $8.37
  • Singapore Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone: $8.40
  • Indian Heritage Centre Admission Ticket: $8.51

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ayutthaya $21
    Singapore $28

Sample the Local Flavors in Singapore

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Singapore:

  • Party Singapore Bespoke Pub Crawl: $30
  • Singapore Pub Crawl: $36
  • Singapore Pub Crawl - Party like a Local: $39
  • Brass Lion Gin Distillery Tour Ticket: $41
  • LeVeL33 Rooftop Brewery Tour & Craft Beer Tasting: $77
  • LeVeL33 Craft-Brewery Restaurant & Lounge Package: $192


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ayutthaya and Singapore, we can see that Singapore is more expensive. And not only is Ayutthaya much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ayutthaya would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ayutthaya and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Singapore would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Singapore than you might in Ayutthaya.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ayutthaya Expensive? and Is Singapore Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ayutthaya or Singapore?

Singapore has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Ayutthaya. When comparing the sizes of Ayutthaya and Singapore, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.