Which place is cheaper, Singapore or Beijing?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Beijing 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 Beijing 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.
Beijing
Beijing is a jam-packed, cultural, and fascinating city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.
Singapore
Singapore is a global, diverse, and colorful 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 food, beaches, and shopping.
Beijing and Singapore: Pros and Cons
Beijing
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big city activities
- Home to the Forbidden City
- Less family-friendly
- Less popular with couples
- Less walkable
Singapore
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Good music scene
- Nice resorts
- Popular beach
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Very walkable
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
Is there more to do in Beijing or Singapore?
Tourists will generally find more to do in Beijing than Singapore. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Beijing is very popular for its museums and nightlife, while Singapore attracts visitors for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Singapore and is known for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also well known for The Forbidden City. Singapore is famous for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets.
How is Beijing different from Singapore?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Singapore and Beijing. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beijing or Singapore?
Beijing
Singapore
Beijing 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 Beijing on the map. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.
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 Beijing or Singapore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Beijing
Singapore
Dining out at restaurants in both Beijing and Singapore can be an enjoyable experience.
Many restaurants in Beijing have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.
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 Beijing or Singapore Better for Nightlife?
Beijing
Singapore
Beijing is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Singapore is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.
Beijing has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.
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 Beijing or Singapore Better for Music?
Beijing
Singapore
Singapore is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Beijing is not a live music destination.
In Singapore you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. As a globalized city, you'll find almost any type of music here. Popular music venues include Timbre, Zouk, and the Crazy Elephant.
Beijing is not a live music destination.
Is Beijing or Singapore Better for Resorts?
Beijing
Singapore
Singapore is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Beijing 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.
Beijing is not a resort destination.
Is Beijing or Singapore Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?
Beijing
Singapore
Singapore is not so good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Beijing 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.
Beijing is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
Is Beijing or Singapore Better for Beaches?
Beijing
Singapore
Singapore is a city with good options for the beach. However, Beijing 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.
Beijing is not a beach destination.
Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Singapore?
Beijing
Singapore
Singapore is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.
Singapore is a world class destination for shoppers. You'll find tons of malls along Orchard Road, but for a more eclectic shopping experience head to the Chinatown Street Market.
Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.
Is Beijing or Singapore Better for Families?
Beijing
Singapore
Singapore is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing 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.
Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.
Is Beijing or Singapore Better for Couples?
Beijing
Singapore
Singapore is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.
Singapore is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The city has stunning hotels, amazing restaurants, and plenty of fun activities that are perfect for couples.
Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.
Is Beijing or Singapore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Beijing
Singapore
Singapore is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.
Singapore is a very popular city to visit 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.
Beijing is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.
Is Beijing or Singapore Better for Students?
Beijing
Singapore
Singapore is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.
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.
Many students visit Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.
Is Beijing or Singapore Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Beijing
Singapore
Singapore is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.
Visitors in Singapore can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There is the MRT subway system as well as buses that travel all over the city.
Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Beijing. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.
Is Beijing or Singapore a more walkable city?
Beijing
Singapore
Singapore is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its 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.
Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.
For even more information, also check out Is Beijing Worth Visiting? and Is Singapore Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Singapore or Beijing?
How long in Beijing or Singapore?
Both Beijing 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 Beijing. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 2-7 days is enough time in Singapore.
Families should spend more time in Singapore than Beijing. 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 Beijing. 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 Beijing 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 Beijing or Singapore? Ideal Length of StayBeijing 3-7Singapore 2-7
One day in Beijing or Singapore?
People visit Beijing 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 Beijing or Singapore?
People visit Beijing because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This 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 Beijing or Singapore?
People visit Beijing 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. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this 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 Beijing or Singapore?
Beijing is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beijing, 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.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Budget Tours to Singapore, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Singapore.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayBeijing $77Singapore $151
The average daily cost (per person) in Beijing is $77, while the average daily cost in Singapore is $151. 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 Beijing and Singapore in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personBeijing $39Singapore $98
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomBeijing $78Singapore $196
Compare Hotels in Beijing and Singapore
Looking for a hotel in Beijing 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.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Beijing $7.65Singapore $10
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Beijing
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Beijing:
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Taxi$4.72
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Train from Airport for Two$6.91
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Taxi to Hotel$8.29
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2 Metro Passes$2.21
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Metro$0.55
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Beijing
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Beijing:
- Private Mutianyu Great Wall Day Tour w/ Optional Guide/Transfer: $15
- From Mutianyu Great Wall Transfer with Pick-Up: $17
- Private Arrival Transfer: Beijing Train Stations to Hotel: $22
- Beijing Railway Station Departure Transfer: Hotel/Apartment to Railway Station: $23
- Private Airport Pick Up or Drop Off Transfer: $26
- Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Beijing Airport (PEK or PKX): $27
- Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Beijing Airport (PEK or PKX): $27
- Private One Way Transfer Services from Train Stations in Beijing to Your Hotels : $27
- Private One Way Transfer Service from Your Hotels to Train Stations in Beijing: $27
- Private Beijing Airport Transfer To Beijing Downtown Hotel: $28
- One-Way Private Transfer to Beijing Airport: $28
- Private Beijing Airport Transfer From hotel to Airport: $29
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:
- Adventure Cove Waterpark + 1 Way Transfer: $83
- Airport Transfer: $80
- 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 Beijing or Singapore?
Prices for flights to both Singapore and Beijing 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 dayBeijing $21Singapore $27
Typical Food Prices in Beijing
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Beijing:
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Popcorn$0.83
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Hot Pot Dinner$6.91
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Dumpling Breakfast for Two$2.76
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Watermelon$1.94
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Peking Duck Dinner for 2$16
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Two Popsicles$0.83
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Beijing
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Beijing.
- Online Cooking Class Beijing Dumplings and Cuisine by Sunflowerli Renowned Chef : $20
- Beijing Acrobatic Show Tickets w/ Optional Dinner or Transfer: $48
- 3.5-Hour Walking Food Tour: A Bite of History at Beijing Niujie Street: $49
- Beijing Hutong Breakfast Food Tour: $55
- Beijing Hutong Breakfast Food Tour: $55
- Temple of Heaven Private Tour w/Option Show &Dinner: $60
- 3 hours Morning or Afternoon Tea Tasting on Maliandao Street and Tea Restaurant Lunch or Dinner Tour: $69
- Mogolian Hot Pot Dinner with no limit soft drink and local beer .: $70
- discovery more Beijing back street evening food tour with locals : $79
- Old Beijing Dinner Tour: $80
- Acrobatic Show with Peking Duck Dinner Private Tour: $80
- Authentic Lunch or Dinner Tour in Beijing's Best Hidden Spots: $80
Typical Food Prices in Singapore
Some typical examples of dining costs in Singapore are as follows:
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Breakfast$4.48
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Sugarcane Juice$1.47
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: $46
- 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: $81
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Beijing $24Singapore $32
Typical Entertainment Prices in Beijing
Here are a few typical costs in Beijing for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
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Entry to Summer Palace for Two$8.29
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Two Opera Tickets$59
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Temple of Heaven Park Entrance (for 2)$9.68
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Forbidden City (for 2)$17
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Forbidden City Tickets$17
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Audio Guides at Forbidden City$11
Tours and Activities in Beijing
Here are a few actual costs in Beijing for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Beijing's Old Hutongs: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
- Small Group Temple of Heaven Walking Tour: $5.00
- Small Group Hutongs Walking Tour : $5.00
- Beijing Summer Palace Entrance Ticket (with Optional Guided Service): $8.00
- Summer Palace+Ming Tombs/Heaven Temple/China National Museum Tour: $8.00
- Beijing Temple of Heaven Entrance Ticket (with Optional Guided Service): $8.00
- Summer Palace Admission Ticket Pre-booking Service: $8.80
- Forbidden City Ticket : $9.90
- Beijing Forbidden City Admission Ticket Pre Booking Service: $9.98
- Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
- The Temple of Heaven OR Summer Palace Entry Ticket: $12
- The Temple of Heaven or Summer Palace Entry Ticket: $13
Tours and Activities in Singapore
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Singapore are as follows:
- The Civic District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $3.99
- 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
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayBeijing $12Singapore $27
Sample the Local Flavors in Beijing
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Beijing:
- Beijing Brewery Bike Tour: $99
- Evening Food Private Tour with Brewery Taproom Hopping at Slow Boat in Beijing: $110
- Full Day Private Chateau Changyu Wine Tour from Beijing: $161
- Private Tour-Bejing Old Hutong Food Tasting+Local Brewery Beer: $165
- 5-Hour Private Changyu Chateau Wine Tasting Tour from Beijing: $178
- Private Changyu Chateau Wine Tasting Tour and Mutianyu Great Wall Visit: $238
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: $32
- 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 Beijing and Singapore, we can see that Singapore is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing 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 Beijing.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Beijing Expensive? and Is Singapore Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Beijing or Singapore?
Beijing has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Singapore. When comparing the sizes of Beijing 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.
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.