Which place is cheaper, Singapore or Bangkok?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bangkok vs. Singapore for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families
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Should you visit Bangkok or Singapore?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bangkok and Singapore can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.
Bangkok
Bangkok is a vibrant, high energy, and cultural capital city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.
Singapore
Singapore is a global, diverse, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.
Bangkok and Singapore: Pros and Cons
Bangkok
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
- Public transit not as usable
- Less walkable
Singapore
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Good music scene
- Nice resorts
- Popular beach
- 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
- Less popular for nightlife
Is there more to do in Bangkok or Singapore?
Visitors will generally find more to do in Singapore than Bangkok. While Bangkok is larger than Singapore, Singapore has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Singapore is better known for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Bangkok is more popular for its museums and nightlife. Bangkok is well known for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. 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 Bangkok different from Singapore?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Singapore and Bangkok. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bangkok or Singapore?
Bangkok
Singapore
Bangkok is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Singapore is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.
You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Bangkok on the map. The city is filled with golden temples and beautiful statues of Buddha. Famous landmarks include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Temple of the Golden Buddha.
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 Bangkok or Singapore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Bangkok
Singapore
Foodies will find both Bangkok and Singapore both to be terrific destinations.
Many restaurants in Bangkok have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has many colorful markets, street food vendors, and a range of restaurants from casual to high end. The aroma and beautiful flavors of local dishes are a big part of the experience in this city. Dishes that you must try include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (shrimp soup), and Gaeng Daeng (red curry). Many foods are very spicy so make sure you order with "no spice" if that is your preference.
Eat your way through Singapore, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.
Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Nightlife?
Bangkok
Singapore
Bangkok is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Singapore is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.
Bangkok is a world class party destination. Cheap drinks, late nights, and crazy parties make this city a favorite for backpackers and young party-goers. Head to Khao San Road for the biggest crowds and crazy parties. Nana Plaza is another option with a three story building that is filled with bars and clubs.
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 Bangkok or Singapore Better for Music?
Bangkok
Singapore
Singapore is a world-class destination for live music. However, Bangkok 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.
Bangkok is not a live music destination.
Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Resorts?
Bangkok
Singapore
Singapore is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Bangkok is not a resort destination.
Singapore is a world class resort vacation destination.
Bangkok is not a resort destination.
Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?
Bangkok
Singapore
Singapore is not so good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bangkok 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.
Bangkok is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Beaches?
Bangkok
Singapore
Singapore is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Bangkok is not a beach destination.
Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Singapore. 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.
Bangkok is not a beach destination.
Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Singapore?
Bangkok
Singapore
Shopping is a popular activity in both Singapore and Bangkok.
Bangkok is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping options range from modern malls to more traditional markets. The malls offer bargain prices for technology and gadgets while the markets offer fabric, food, local goods, and a unique experience. The city also has nearby floating markets as well as night markets, which let you experience a different side to the culture.
Known for shopping, Singapore draws large crowds to its stores. You'll find tons of malls along Orchard Road, but for a more eclectic shopping experience head to the Chinatown Street Market.
Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Families?
Bangkok
Singapore
Singapore is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.
Singapore is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.
Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bangkok is very family-friendly. This city is full of energy and kids will love the vibrant atmosphere. There are colorful temples, spirited markets, and kid-friendly museums. It's good to choose a hotel with a pool, as temperatures can get hot during the day. Kids will also enjoy having new experiences like riding in a tuk tuk or taking a boat ride. There are also a number of amusement parks and entertainment centers around town.
Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Couples?
Bangkok
Singapore
Both Bangkok and Singapore are terrific destinations for a couple's getaway.
Bangkok is a great capital city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This is a great city for couples who enjoy culture, food, partying, and soaking up life. Wandering the grounds of the stunning temples, sampling food at the markets, or taking a boat cruise will all make memorable experiences.
Singapore is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city has stunning hotels, amazing restaurants, and plenty of fun activities that are perfect for couples.
Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Bangkok
Singapore
Bangkok and Singapore are terrific places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.
Bangkok is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This part of the world is a mecca for backpackers, and many arrive or depart from this city. It's filled with hostels and budget accommodation, as well as entertainment, bars, tours (and even scams so stay alert). The most famous backpacker area is around Khao San Road, where you'll find parties, bars, street food, and large crowds. If you're looking for a slightly more mellow vibe, you should consider a different area like Phaya Thai.
With so many budget-friendly offerings, Singapore is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.
Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Students?
Bangkok
Singapore
Singapore is a world-class destination for students. However, Bangkok is not popular with students.
Singapore is a very popular city for students. As such a diverse city, you'll find plenty of international students as well as expats to hang out with.
Bangkok is not popular with students.
Is Bangkok or Singapore Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Bangkok
Singapore
Singapore is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.
With a huge network, the transit system in Singapore can get you around easily. There is the MRT subway system as well as buses that travel all over the city.
While Bangkok offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Skytrain and Metro are the most efficient way to get around. The city's crazy traffic can make buses and taxis a bit frustrating, but tuk tuks are also a fun option.
Is Bangkok or Singapore a more walkable city?
Bangkok
Singapore
Singapore is a world-class destination for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.
Getting around Singapore on foot is easy. 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.
Bangkok is generally not a very walkable capital city. The crowds and size make walking a bit challenging, so it's best to plan your day in advance.
Should I spend more time in Singapore or Bangkok?
How long in Bangkok or Singapore?
Both Bangkok and Singapore have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Singapore has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Singapore than Bangkok. However, 2-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.
Families should spend more time in Singapore than Bangkok. 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 Bangkok. 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 Bangkok 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.
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How many days in Bangkok or Singapore? Ideal Length of StayBangkok 2-7Singapore 2-7
One day in Bangkok or Singapore?
People visit Bangkok because there is so much to do. 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.
In Singapore, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.
A weekend in Bangkok or Singapore?
People visit Bangkok because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this capital city has to offer. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from.
In Singapore, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Singapore has to offer.
Five days in Bangkok or Singapore?
People visit Bangkok because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this capital city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this capital city has to offer.
Singapore is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Singapore has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.
A week in Bangkok or Singapore?
Bangkok is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bangkok, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Singapore. In Singapore, you'll find live music and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayBangkok $79Singapore $153
The average daily cost (per person) in Bangkok is $79, while the average daily cost in Singapore is $153. 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 Bangkok and Singapore in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personBangkok $43Singapore $99
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomBangkok $86Singapore $198
Compare Hotels in Bangkok and Singapore
Looking for a hotel in Bangkok 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.
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: Bangkok Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Bangkok $6.34Singapore $10
Typical Local Transportation prices in Bangkok
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Bangkok are as follows:
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Tuk Tuk to bus station$2.26
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Skytrain Ticket$4.52
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Chao Phraya River Express Ticket$0.90
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Ferry Ride$0.73
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Taxi From Airport$7.06
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Short Taxi Ride$2.54
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Boat Taxi$1.41
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Trains to airport$4.52
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangkok
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangkok:
- Suvarnabhumi Airport Bus transfer to/from Bangkok: $4.14
- Bus transfer from/to Suvarnabhumi Airport: $5.08
- Bus transfer from/to Bangkok Don Mueang Airport: $7.62
- BANGKOK TRANSFER: Bangkok Airport to Bangkok Hotel + FREE WIFI: $10
- Departure Private Transfer Bangkok City to Bangkok Airport BKK or DMK by Sedan: $14
- Arrival Private Transfer Bangkok Airport BKK or DMK to Bangkok City by Sedan Car: $14
- Bangkok Private Airport (BKK And DMK) Transfer: $14
- Private transfer from Hotel in Bangkok to BKK Airport : $14
- Bangkok Airport Departure – Shared Transfer: $15
- Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) Arrival Transfer (Shared or Private): $15
- Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) Departure Transfer (Shared or Private): $15
- Bangkok Airport Arrival – Shared Transfer: $15
Typical Local Transportation prices in Singapore
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Singapore:
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Taxi to Airport$24
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Singapore
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Singapore:
- Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) Private Transfer to Downtown: $30
- Singapore Changi Airport (SIN): Transfer to Downtown hotels: $165
- Singapore Changi Airport: Singapore Private Airport Transfer: $46
- Singapore City Centre to Cruise Terminal Transfer: $36
- Singapore Cruise Terminal to City Transfer: $36
- Singapore Departure Transfer (Hotel to Airport): $36
- Changi Airport to/from Hotel Private Transfer: $56
- Half-Day City Tour with Hotel Transfer: $36
- Night Safari Ticket, Tram Ride, & Return Transfer: $105
Is it cheaper to fly into Bangkok or Singapore?
Prices for flights to both Singapore and Bangkok 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
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Food Meals for one dayBangkok $19Singapore $28
Typical Food prices in Bangkok
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Bangkok:
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Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe (for Two)$25
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Casual Lunch of Prawns (for Two)$5.65
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2 Rotis (Bread)$1.27
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Mango & Sticky Rice$0.85
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Lunch at KFC (for Two)$5.65
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Pad Thai$1.98
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Airport Lunch for 2$16
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Lunch for 2$21
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bangkok
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bangkok.
- Thai Cooking Class at Bangkok Cooking Studio: $14
- White Orchid Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $20
- Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise Ticket: $21
- River Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess: $21
- Baiyoke Observation Deck with Lunch/Dinner Buffet: $22
- Meridian Sunset Dinner Cruise - Floating Paradise From ICONSIAM Bangkok: $25
- Twilight Dinner Cruise Along Chao Phraya River in Bangkok: $26
- Nopparat Thai Dinner with Classical Dance: $28
- 2-Hour Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess: $28
- Baiyoke Sky Hotel Observation Deck Ticket with Lunch or Dinner : $28
- Baiyoke Sky Hotel Observation Deck Ticket With Dinner or Lunch: $28
- Chao Phraya Buffet Dinner Viva Alangka Cruise: $28
Typical Food prices in Singapore
Some typical examples of dining costs in Singapore are as follows:
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Breakfast$4.53
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Sugarcane Juice$1.49
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: $47
- Small Group Tour: Michelin and Local Hawker Food Tour: $66
- Hands-on Cooking Class with Cultural Immersion: $74
- Little India Hawker Street Food Tour: $82
- Local Food Tour: $83
- Cooking Classes in Singapore for Team Building: $97
- Market-to-Table Experience and Cooking Class: $104
- Chinatown Food Tour: $139
- Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $140
- Singapore at Night & Street Food Tour: $154
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Bangkok $16Singapore $33
Typical Entertainment prices in Bangkok
Here are a few typical costs in Bangkok for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
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Movie Ticket$4.52
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Grand Palace Entrance Ticket$9.89
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Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) Ticket$1.41
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Dusit Zoo Entrance Fee (for Two)$5.65
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Club Cover Charge$11
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Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two)$68
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Fish Pedicure$4.24
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Wat Pho entrance ticket$2.83
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Siriraj Museum (2)$11
Tours and Activities in Bangkok
Here are a few actual costs in Bangkok for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Thailand's Road to Democracy: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $1.99
- Bangkok's Old Town: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.13
- Bangkok Noi Canal: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.13
- Bangkok Chinatown Eats: A Self-guided Audio Tour: $5.13
- Road to Democracy: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Thailand's Modern Politics: $5.20
- Skip the Line Admission Ticket: Ayutthaya Floating Market: $5.62
- Skip the line Admission Ticket: Ayutthaya Floating Market: $5.62
- Bangkok Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.00
- Bangkok's Wireless Road: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
- Chinatown and Wat Traimit Self-Guided Walking Tour: $7.20
- Wat Arun Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
- Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
Tours and Activities in Singapore
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Singapore are as follows:
- Outdoor Audio Tour at Gardens by the Bay: $4.21
- Kampong Glam: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
- Science Center E-Ticket: $7.20
- National Gallery Singapore - International E-Ticket: $7.87
- Gardens by the Bay Admission E-Ticket: $7.96
- National Orchid Garden Entry Tickets: $8.09
- Snow City Singapore Entry Ticket: $9.00
- Sampan Boat Ride Ticket at the Marina Bay Sands: $11
- Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
- Little India Self-Guided Audio Tour: $13
- Gardens by the Bay Entry E-Ticket: $15
- Trickeye Museum Entry Ticket: $17
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayBangkok $6.18Singapore $27
Typical Alcohol prices in Bangkok
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Bangkok are as follows:
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Beer$1.13
Sample the Local Flavors in Bangkok
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bangkok:
- Bangkok Pub Crawl: $18
- Pub Crawl and Club Night With Shots & VIP Entrance: $23
- 6-Hour Pub Crawl in Bangkok: $26
- Private Bachelor Bar Crawl in Bangkok: $450
Sample the Local Flavors in Singapore
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Singapore:
- Singapore Pub Crawl - Party like a Local: $26
- Little India Pub Crawl: $26
- Party Singapore Bespoke Pub Crawl:Wildest Nightlife Clubbing: $30
- Halloween Horror Nightlife PartySingapore Bespoke Pub Crawl: $37
- Countdown Party Singapore Bespoke Pub Crawl: $75
- Tiger Brewery, Swim & Sunset Photo Session at Raffles Marina: $97
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Singapore, we can see that Singapore is more expensive. And not only is Bangkok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bangkok would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bangkok 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 Bangkok.
Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Singapore?
Bangkok is bigger, and its population is about 44% larger than the population of Singapore. When comparing the population of Bangkok vs. 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 and the activities that interest you.
Related Articles for Bangkok
Related Articles for Singapore
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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