A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bangkok vs. Singapore for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

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

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
  • Home to the Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
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
Things to Consider
  • 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. 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.

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.

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

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.


  • How many days in Bangkok or Singapore? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bangkok 2-7 
    Singapore 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.


Which place is cheaper, Singapore or Bangkok?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangkok is $77, while the average daily cost in Singapore is $152. 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
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangkok $42
    Singapore $98
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangkok $84
    Singapore $196
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.

Hotels in Bangkok


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: Bangkok Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangkok $5.83
    Singapore $10
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bangkok

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


  • Tuk Tuk to bus station
    $2.21
  • Skytrain Ticket
    $4.41
  • Chao Phraya River Express Ticket
    $0.88
  • Ferry Ride
    $0.72
  • Taxi From Airport
    $6.89
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $2.48
  • Boat Taxi
    $1.38
  • Trains to airport
    $4.41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangkok

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangkok:

  • Suvarnabhumi Airport Bus transfer to/from Bangkok: $4.13
  • Bus transfer from/to Suvarnabhumi Airport: $5.07
  • Bus transfer from/to Bangkok Don Mueang Airport: $7.60
  • Private transfer from Hotel in Bangkok to BKK Airport : $14
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Bangkok HTL- APT(BKK): $14
  • Bangkok Private Airport (BKK And DMK) Transfer: $14
  • Private Bangkok Don Mueang Airport Transfer To City Hotels Or Hotels To Airport: $16
  • From Shared Transfer to Pattaya or Vice Versa: $17
  • Departure Private Transfer Bangkok City to Bangkok Airport BKK or DMK by Sedan: $17
  • Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Shared Departure Transfer : $17
  • Bangkok International Airport - Arrival Transfer: $17
  • Private Bangkok Airport Transfer: $17

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Singapore

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


  • Taxi to Airport
    $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Singapore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Singapore:

  • Adventure Cove Waterpark + 1 Way Transfer: $83
  • Airport Transfer: $81
  • Airport Transfer: Singapore Airport SIN to Singapore in Business Car: $99
  • Airport Transfer: Singapore Airport SIN to Singapore in Luxury Van: $116
  • Airport Transfer: Singapore to Singapore Airport SIN in Business Car: $99
  • Airport Transfer: Singapore to Singapore Airport SIN in Luxury Van: $116
  • Amazing City Experience + Roundtrip Transfers: $44
  • Arrival Private Transfer Singapore Airport to Singapore City in a Business Car: $87
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Singapore Airport SIN to Singapore in Luxury Car: $154
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Singapore Airport to Singapore City by luxury vehicle: $95
  • Changi International Airport Private MPV Transfer: $149
  • City Experience + Roundtrip Transfers: $46

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
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bangkok $18
    Singapore $28
Typical Food Prices in Bangkok

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Bangkok:


  • Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe (for Two)
    $25
  • Casual Lunch of Prawns (for Two)
    $5.51
  • 2 Rotis (Bread)
    $1.24
  • Mango & Sticky Rice
    $0.83
  • Lunch at KFC (for Two)
    $5.51
  • Pad Thai
    $1.93
  • Airport Lunch for 2
    $15
  • Lunch for 2
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bangkok

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

  • White Orchid Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $19
  • Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise Ticket: $21
  • Baiyoke Observation Deck with Lunch/Dinner Buffet: $22
  • River Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya Princess: $24
  • Meridian Sunset Dinner Cruise - Floating Paradise From ICONSIAM Bangkok: $24
  • Twilight Dinner Cruise Along Chao Phraya River in Bangkok: $25
  • Alangka Luxury Buffet Dinner Cruise With Live Music: $27
  • Viva Alangka Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise: $27
  • Chao Phraya Buffet Dinner Viva Alangka Cruise: $27
  • Riverside Dinner Buffet Cruise On Chao Phraya: $28
  • Baiyoke Sky Hotel Observation Deck Ticket with Lunch or Dinner : $28
  • Baiyoke Sky Hotel Observation Deck Ticket With Dinner or Lunch: $28

Typical Food Prices in Singapore

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


  • Breakfast
    $4.52
  • Sugarcane Juice
    $1.48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Singapore

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

  • Singapore : Traditional Snacks Cooking Class: $36
  • Secrets of Singapore Kick Scooter Tour with Dinner: $47
  • Secrets of Singapore Kick Scooter Tour with Dinner: $48
  • Guided Hawker Culture & Street Food Tour at Night: $65
  • Local Hawker Food Tour with Tastings: $65
  • Marina Bay Sands Yacht Cruise with Dinner: $68
  • Singapore Bike and Bites Food Tour: $69
  • Eat Snap Tour - Katong Walking Food Tour: $73
  • Small Group: Michelin and Local Hawker Food Tour: $73
  • Private Korean Cooking Class in Balmoral Road: $75
  • Zebra Urban Safari Bicycle Tour with Local Dinner and Drinks: $76
  • Little India Hawker Street Food Tour: $82

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangkok $16
    Singapore $32
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangkok

Here are a few typical costs in Bangkok for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Movie Ticket
    $4.41
  • Grand Palace Entrance Ticket
    $9.65
  • Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) Ticket
    $1.38
  • Dusit Zoo Entrance Fee (for Two)
    $5.51
  • Club Cover Charge
    $10
  • Thai Boxing Tickets (for Two)
    $66
  • Fish Pedicure
    $4.14
  • Wat Pho entrance ticket
    $2.76
  • 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
  • Skip the Line Admission Ticket: Ayutthaya Floating Market: $5.46
  • Chinatown and Wat Traimit Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.00
  • Skip the Line Admission Ticket of Ayothaya Floating Market: $8.52
  • Wat Pho Reclining Buddha Self-Guided Audio Tour (entry not incl.): $9.00
  • Pororo Aqua Park Entry Ticket: $9.68
  • Skip the Line: Patpong Museum Guided Tour : $9.94
  • Wat Arun Self-Guided Audio Tour: $10
  • Grand Palace Self-Guided Walking Tour: $10
  • Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Self-Guided Audio Tour: $10
  • Three Head Giant Elephant & Erawan Museum in Bangkok Admission Ticket: $10
  • Self- Guided Audio Tour: $11

Tours and Activities in Singapore

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

  • Kampong Glam: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
  • River Wonders Entry Ticket: $5.10
  • Singapore Street Art Hunting in Kampong Glam: A Self-guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Artoholic A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • The Civic District with Singapore Boy Hossan Leong: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Big Little India: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Singapore's History of Trade: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Follow the Money: A self-guided audio tour of Singapore's Financial District: $5.20
  • Kampong Glam: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Singapore's Malay Culture: $5.20
  • The Civic District: Hear stories about Singapore's past on an audio tour: $5.20
  • Singapore's Stories and Histories: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Indian Heritage Centre Admission Ticket: $5.40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangkok $6.03
    Singapore $27
Typical Alcohol Prices in Bangkok

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Bangkok are as follows:


  • Beer
    $1.10

Sample the Local Flavors in Bangkok

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bangkok:

  • Pub Crawl and Club Night With Shots & VIP Entrance: $22

Sample the Local Flavors in Singapore

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

  • Tour of Tiger Brewery in Singapore: $22
  • Little India Pub Crawl : $23
  • Singapore Pub Crawl - Party like a Local: $26
  • Little India Pub Crawl: $26
  • Singapore Pub Crawl (SG Pub Crawl): $27
  • Party Singapore Bespoke Pub Crawl:Wildest Nightlife Clubbing: $33
  • Halloween Horror Nightlife PartySingapore Bespoke Pub Crawl: $37
  • Party Singapore Bespoke Pub Crawl Wildest Nightlife Experience: $38
  • Enjoy Gin Distillery Tour with Tasting Flight and Singapore Sling Masterclass: $58
  • Tiger Brewery Tour, Swim & Sunset Photo Session at Raffles Marina: $99


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.

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


Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Singapore?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 44% larger than the population of Singapore. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok 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.