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

Should you visit Hong Kong or Singapore?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Hong Kong or Singapore, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan, glamorous, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Singapore

Singapore is a modern, global, and diverse city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

Hong Kong and Singapore: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Hong Kong or Singapore?

Both Singapore and Hong Kong have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Hong Kong is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Singapore is known for its music, resorts, and scuba diving & snorkeling. Hong Kong is popular for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. Singapore is popular for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets.

How is Hong Kong different from Singapore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hong Kong or Singapore?

Hong Kong
Singapore

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Hong Kong and Singapore.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hong Kong can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Singapore. 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 Hong Kong or Singapore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hong Kong
Singapore

Dining out at restaurants in both Hong Kong and Singapore can be an enjoyable experience.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Hong Kong is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

Many restaurants in Singapore have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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 Hong Kong or Singapore Better for Nightlife?

Hong Kong
Singapore

Hong Kong is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Singapore is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Hong Kong has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

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 Hong Kong or Singapore Better for Music?

Hong Kong
Singapore

Singapore is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Hong Kong is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Singapore. As a globalized city, you'll find almost any type of music here. Popular music venues include Timbre, Zouk, and the Crazy Elephant.

Hong Kong is not a live music destination.


Is Hong Kong or Singapore Better for Resorts?

Hong Kong
Singapore

Singapore is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Hong Kong is not a resort destination.

Singapore offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Hong Kong is not a resort destination.

Is Hong Kong or Singapore Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hong Kong
Singapore

Singapore is not a good area for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hong Kong is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Most people don't go snorkeling in Singapore. The best place to snorkel in the area is Pulau Hantu.

Hong Kong is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hong Kong or Singapore Better for Beaches?

Hong Kong
Singapore

Hong Kong is notable for the beach. Also, Singapore is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

Hong Kong is considered a top beach destination. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

Many people head to Singapore to enjoy the beach. 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.


Is Hong Kong or Singapore Better for Hiking?

Hong Kong
Singapore

Hong Kong is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Singapore is not a hiking destination.

Hong Kong is a popular spot for hiking. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

Singapore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hong Kong or Singapore?

Hong Kong
Singapore

Shoppers can find a variety of fantastic stores in both Hong Kong and Singapore.

Known for shopping, Hong Kong draws large crowds to its stores. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

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.

Is Hong Kong or Singapore Better for Families?

Hong Kong
Singapore

Hong Kong and Singapore are both fantastic destinations for the whole family.

Hong Kong is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

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.


Is Hong Kong or Singapore Better for Couples?

Hong Kong
Singapore

Hong Kong and Singapore are both fantastic to visit as a couple.

Hong Kong has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

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.

Is Hong Kong or Singapore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hong Kong
Singapore

Singapore is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

Hong Kong is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.

Is Hong Kong or Singapore Better for Students?

Hong Kong
Singapore

Singapore is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hong Kong is not popular with students.

Singapore is a great destination for students. As such a diverse city, you'll find plenty of international students as well as expats to hang out with.

Hong Kong is not popular with students.


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

Hong Kong
Singapore

Visitors will find fantastic public transit in both Hong Kong and Singapore.

Visitors in Hong Kong can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

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.

Is Hong Kong or Singapore a more walkable city?

Hong Kong
Singapore

Hong Kong and Singapore are fantastic when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hong Kong. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Singapore or Hong Kong?

How long in Hong Kong or Singapore?

Both Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Hong Kong, and 2-7 days is enough time in Singapore.

Families should spend more time in Singapore than Hong Kong. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Singapore than Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong or Singapore? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hong Kong 3-7 
    Singapore 2-7

One day in Hong Kong or Singapore?

People visit Hong Kong because there is so much to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Singapore. 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 Hong Kong or Singapore?

People visit Hong Kong because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

You'll find live music and food around the diverse big city of Singapore. 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 Hong Kong or Singapore?

People visit Hong Kong 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 great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful city of Singapore. 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 Hong Kong or Singapore?

Hong Kong is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hong Kong, one week is sufficent for most. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Singapore or Hong Kong?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hong Kong is $159, 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 Hong Kong and Singapore in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hong Kong $75
    Singapore $99
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hong Kong $150
    Singapore $198
Compare Hotels in Hong Kong and Singapore

Looking for a hotel in Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong


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: Hong Kong Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hong Kong $8.71
    Singapore $10
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Hong Kong:


  • MTR (for 2)
    $2.81
  • Local Bus
    $2.81
  • Ferry Ticket
    $0.26
  • Hong Kong Airport Express Train Ticket
    $14

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:

  • Wondrous Wildlife @ Singapore Zoo + Roundtrip Transfers: $91
  • Wondrous Wildlife @ River Wonders + Roundtrip Transfers: $84
  • Wildlife River Wonders and Night Safari(Combo)+Roundtrip Transfer: $151
  • Universal Studios Singapore Admission Ticket with Transfer: $159
  • Try find better than us! Airport Transfer service in Singapore HTL-APT (SIN): $40
  • Try find better than us! Airport Transfer service in Singapore APT-HTL (SIN): $40
  • Starry Night Singapore Tour + Roundtrip Transfers: $69
  • Universal Studios 1-Day Pass with 1-Way Transfer: $97
  • Night Safari with Tram Ride and Hotel Transfer: $169
  • Night Safari Ticket, Tram Ride, & Return Transfer: $105
  • Marina Bay Sands & Gardens By The Bay & Transfer: $112
  • Half-Day City Tour with Hotel Transfer: $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Hong Kong or Singapore?

Prices for flights to both Singapore and Hong Kong 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
    Hong Kong $33
    Singapore $28
Typical Food Prices in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner for 2
    $11

Typical Food Prices in Singapore

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


  • Breakfast
    $4.53
  • 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.

  • 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: $66
  • Local Hawker Food Tour with Tastings: $66
  • 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.
    Hong Kong $95
    Singapore $33
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Hong Kong's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Peak Tram
    $7.66
  • Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
    $24

Tours and Activities in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Plover Cove Bicycling and Hiking Adventure: $110
  • Ma On Shan Climbing Adventure: $115

Tours and Activities in Singapore

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

  • SG Adventure Pass with Dukw Tour: $124
  • SG Explorer Pass with Dukw Tour: $67
  • Singapore : Axe Throwing Experience : $40
  • Singapore's Chinatown "Off The Beaten Track" Foodie Tour : $107
  • VIP private Night Tour + Light Show, Night market & more : $155
  • *16 Hrs Tailored Melaka Highlights Van Tour from Singapore w' Tour Guide: $161
  • *17 or 19 Hrs Kuala Lumpur Van Tour from Singapore w' Tour Guide: $188
  • *19 Hrs Kuala Lumpur&Melaka Van Tour from Singapore w' Tour Guide: $185
  • 1-way Singapore hotel pickup (Batam private tour guests only): $120
  • 3 Ethnic Neighborhoods & UNESCO Street Food / Cultural Experience: $151
  • 3 Hour Private Sunset Tour in Singapore: $208
  • 3-Hour Marina Bay Best Spots Walking Tour: $69

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hong Kong $21
    Singapore $27

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 comparing the travel costs between Hong Kong and Singapore, we can see that Hong Kong is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Hong Kong or Singapore?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 98% larger than the population of Singapore. When comparing the sizes of Hong Kong 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.