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

Should you visit Istanbul or Singapore?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul 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.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a historic, diverse, and beautiful city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Istanbul attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Istanbul travel costs.

Singapore

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

Istanbul and Singapore: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Mosque
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
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Istanbul or Singapore?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Singapore. Istanbul is bigger than Singapore, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and historical sights, while Singapore is more popular for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. Istanbul is more touristy than Singapore and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Singapore is well known for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets.

How is Istanbul different from Singapore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Istanbul
Singapore

Istanbul 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 Istanbul on the map. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

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 Istanbul or Singapore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Istanbul
Singapore

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Singapore can be difficult as they are each fantastic in their own way.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Istanbul is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

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 Istanbul or Singapore Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul
Singapore

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

Istanbul has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

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 Istanbul or Singapore Better for Music?

Istanbul
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Istanbul 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.

Istanbul is not a live music destination.


Is Istanbul or Singapore Better for Resorts?

Istanbul
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its resorts. However, Istanbul 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.

Istanbul is not a resort destination.

Is Istanbul or Singapore Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Istanbul
Singapore

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

Istanbul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Istanbul or Singapore Better for Beaches?

Istanbul
Singapore

Singapore is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Singapore has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.


Is Istanbul or Singapore Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul
Singapore

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Singapore does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Istanbul can be explored in its historical center. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

Singapore does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Singapore?

Istanbul
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

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

Istanbul is well-known for its shopping. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

Is Istanbul or Singapore More Beautiful?

Istanbul
Singapore

Istanbul and Singapore both are comparable with their very good scenery and beauty.

Istanbul is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With its many beautiful mosques and historic sights, it is a beautiful city by the Bosphorus.

The beauty of Singapore is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It is a beautiful city with many lights and colorful neighborhoods.


Is Istanbul or Singapore Better for Families?

Istanbul
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Singapore is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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, Istanbul is very family-friendly. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

Is Istanbul or Singapore Better for Couples?

Istanbul
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Singapore has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The city has stunning hotels, amazing restaurants, and plenty of fun activities that are perfect for couples.

Istanbul makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the atmosphere.

Is Istanbul or Singapore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul
Singapore

Both Istanbul and Singapore are fantastic destinations for backpackers.

Istanbul is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

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 Istanbul or Singapore Better for Students?

Istanbul
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Students come from all over to stay in Istanbul. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

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

Istanbul
Singapore

Both Istanbul and Singapore offer fantastic public transit options.

Public transit in Istanbul is top-notch. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

Singapore has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There is the MRT subway system as well as buses that travel all over the city.

Is Istanbul or Singapore a more walkable city?

Istanbul
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Istanbul is a very walkable city. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.


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

Should I spend more time in Singapore or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Singapore?

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

Families should spend more time in Singapore than Istanbul. 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 Istanbul. 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 Istanbul 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 Istanbul or Singapore? Ideal Length of Stay
    Istanbul 3-7 
    Singapore 2-7

One day in Istanbul or Singapore?

People visit Istanbul because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

The beautiful city of Singapore offers museums and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Istanbul or Singapore?

People visit Istanbul because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Singapore is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Singapore, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Singapore?

People visit Istanbul 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. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Singapore is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Singapore, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Istanbul or Singapore?

Istanbul is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Istanbul, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Singapore is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Singapore has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Budget Tours to Singapore, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Singapore.


Which place is cheaper, Singapore or Istanbul?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Istanbul is $189, while the average daily cost in Singapore is $180. 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 Istanbul and Singapore in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Istanbul $87
    Singapore $103
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Istanbul $174
    Singapore $206
Compare Hotels in Istanbul and Singapore

Looking for a hotel in Istanbul 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 Istanbul


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: Istanbul Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Istanbul $41
    Singapore $11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Istanbul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Istanbul:

  • Private; VIP VAN Istanbul Cruise Port Transfer(Galataport): $5.77
  • Private; Istanbul Cruise Port Transfer (Galataport): $5.77
  • Private Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) Transfer: $12
  • Private Economic VIP Transfer to/from Istanbul Airport : $20
  • Istanbul Lake Sapanca Tour with Lunch and Transfer: $20
  • From Bursa Day Trip with Lunch and Transfers: $24
  • Transfer Istanbul City Center to Istanbul Ataturk Airport: $28
  • Transfer Istanbul Ataturk Airport (ISL) to City Center: $28
  • Princes' Islands Tour with Lunch and Transfers: $29
  • Istanbul Airport Private Transfers service: $29
  • Private Istanbul Airport Transfer to Blue Mosque Sultan Ahmet: $29
  • İstanbul airport transfer: $29

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Singapore

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


  • Taxi to Airport
    $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Singapore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Singapore:

  • Attractions Shared Transfers from Hotel: $12
  • Changi Airport (SIN) Private One-Way Transfer: $23
  • Private Transfer: Singapore to Sentosa Island: $27
  • Luxurious Private Airport/Cruise Transfer Singapore: $28
  • Private Airport Transfer in Singapore: $29
  • Changi Airport to/from Hotel Private Transfer: $30
  • Private Transfer from/to Changi Airport(SIN): $30
  • Singapore Point to Point Transfer: $34
  • Singapore Changi Airport: Private Arrival Transfer with Meet & Greet Service: $34
  • Luxurious Airport/Cruise Transfers Singapore: $35
  • Singapore Essence City Tour With Roundtrip Transfers: $36
  • Try find better than us! Airport Transfer service in Singapore HTL-APT (SIN): $39

Is it cheaper to fly into Istanbul or Singapore?

Prices for flights to both Singapore and Istanbul 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
    Istanbul $70
    Singapore $50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Istanbul

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

  • Unforgettable Night on the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise: $14
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Incl. Drinks with Transfer: $17
  • Sultania Luxury Cruise Bosphorus Dinner: $20
  • İstanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Turkish Night Show : $20
  • Bosphorus Cruise Dinner, Show & Alcoholic Drinks: $20
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Tour With Turkish Night Show: $23
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise Dinner, Drinks & Show with Pickup: $26
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise w/ Unlimited Drinks & Entertainment: $28
  • All Inclusive; Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Live Shows&Unlimited Drinks: $30
  • Bosphorus Night Cruise with Dinner, Shows and Party : $30
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Turkish Night with Live Shows: $30
  • Dinner and Turkish Night Show in Bosphorus Strait: $32

Typical Food Prices in Singapore

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


  • Breakfast
    $4.73
  • Sugarcane Juice
    $1.55

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: $49
  • Secrets of Singapore Kick Scooter Tour with Dinner: $50
  • Singapore Food Tours - Chinatown Complex Hawker: $58
  • Hands-on Cooking Class with Cultural Immersion: $75
  • Hawker Culture Food Tour and Sightseeing: $75
  • Guided Street Food Tour at Night: $78
  • Local Hawker Food Tour with Tastings: $78
  • Singapore Bike and Bites Food Tour: $79
  • The Real Singapore Heartland Walking Food Tour: $80
  • Little India Hawker Street Food Tour: $86
  • Small Group: Michelin and Local Hawker Food Tour: $87
  • Local Food Tour: $88

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Istanbul $46
    Singapore $34

Tours and Activities in Istanbul

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

  • Alternative Tour; Daily Life, Customs, Stories - Tip Based Tour: $2.50
  • Istanbul Culture History and UNESCO Treasures Kickstart Tour: $3.52
  • Istanbul Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $3.52
  • Hagia Sophia Admission Ticket - Pay on Arrival : $3.53
  • Private 1 - 2 or 3-Days Tour: $4.61
  • Istanbul Sites: Peel back the layers of Turkish history a self-guided audio tour: $5.40
  • Kadikoy's history, theatres and sweet shops: a self-guided audio tour: $5.99
  • Istanbul's Karaköy Neighbourhood: A Self-Guided Photography Tour: $6.79
  • Istanbul Bosphorus: 3-Hour Morning Cruise with Asian Side: $6.93
  • Explore Bosphorous on a Sunset Boat Cruise: $6.93
  • Bosphorus Strait Sightseeing Cruise & Audio Guide: $7.51
  • Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise Tour with Audio Guide: $7.74

Tours and Activities in Singapore

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

  • Live Like a Local in Singapore (Half-day Tour): $3.19
  • Artoholic A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.00
  • Follow the Money: A self-guided audio tour of Singapore's Financial District: $5.20
  • Big Little India: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Singapore's History of Trade: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $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
  • Indian Heritage Centre Admission Ticket: $5.65
  • Indian Heritage Centre Entrance Ticket: $6.24
  • Peranakan Museum Admission Ticket: $6.55
  • The Civic District with Singapore Boy Hossan Leong: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Singapore Street Art Hunting in Kampong Glam: Self-Guided Tour: $6.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Istanbul $12
    Singapore $28

Sample the Local Flavors in Istanbul

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Istanbul:

  • Famous Istanbul Pub Crawl #1 Nightlife Experience: $28
  • Rooftop Pub Crawl with Party Bus: $29
  • Party Pub Crawl with Party Bus: $30
  • Istanbul Party Pub Crawl with Party Bus in Sultanahmet and Taksim: $31

Sample the Local Flavors in Singapore

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

  • Party Singapore Bespoke Pub Crawl: $30
  • Party Singapore Bespoke Pub Crawl: $31
  • Singapore Pub Crawl - Party like a Local: $39
  • Brass Lion Gin Distillery Tour Ticket: $41
  • LeVeL33 Rooftop Brewery Tour & Craft Beer Tasting: $77
  • LeVeL33 Craft-Brewery Restaurant & Lounge Package: $193


When comparing the travel costs between Istanbul and Singapore, we can see that Istanbul 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. Even though Istanbul is in Europe and Singapore is in Asia, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Singapore?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Singapore. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul 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.