A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Lipe vs. Singapore for Food, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Koh Lipe or Singapore?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Koh Lipe and Singapore can help you decide which place is right for you.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is a small, local, and tranquil island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Singapore

Singapore is a glitzy, modern, and global 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.

Koh Lipe and Singapore: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lipe or Singapore?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Singapore than Koh Lipe, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Singapore is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Lipe is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Singapore is more touristy than Koh Lipe and is known for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets. Also, Singapore is famous for Merlion Park Waterfront. Koh Lipe is well known for its world class scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as its small and local atmosphere.

How is Koh Lipe different from Singapore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Lipe or Singapore?

Singapore is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Lipe. The island is small and all about beaches and the undersea world, so you won't find any temples or museums here.

Is the Food Better in Koh Lipe or Singapore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Singapore has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Koh Lipe has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's enough of a restaurant selection that you'll find good local food and freshly caught seafood. The options change frequently as the tourist crowds have varied dramatically over the years, making it difficult for businesses to stay open.

Is Koh Lipe or Singapore Better for Nightlife?

Singapore is very good for nightlife. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Singapore has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koh Lipe This is a small island that attracts tourists who want nature, beauty, and a serene and tranquil environment. You won't find much of a nightlife scene here.

Is Koh Lipe or Singapore Better for Music?

Singapore is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Koh Lipe 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.

Koh Lipe is not a live music destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Singapore Better for Resorts?

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its resorts. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Singapore is a perfect choice. 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.

Koh Lipe is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of locally owned hotels on the island. Many have snorkeling gear for rent.

Is Koh Lipe or Singapore Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lipe is a must-visit destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Singapore is a mediocre city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Koh Lipe a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. Although it is no longer the undiscovered island paradise that it once was, the snorkeling and diving on Koh Lipe remains some of the best in the country.

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

Is Koh Lipe or Singapore Better for Beaches?

Koh Lipe is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Singapore is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Lipe. Despite the island's small size, the beaches are truly spectacular. They have white sand and the undersea world is just steps away, so don't forget your mask and snorkel.

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 Koh Lipe or Singapore Better for Hiking?

Koh Lipe is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Singapore is not a hiking destination.

Koh Lipe is a popular spot for hiking. The island of Koh Lipe doesn't have any hiking, but nearby Adang Island has some impressive hikes that offer views and small waterfalls. You can take a longtail boat for just a short ride to the nearby island.

Singapore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lipe or Singapore?

Singapore is a must-visit destination for shopping. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Lipe has some nice offerings. The Walking Street is the main street through the island. Its where you'll find the island's shops and restaurants. Most are closed during the morning hours, but people begin to gather in the afternoon.

Is Koh Lipe or Singapore Better for Families?

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Singapore is one of the most popular family destinations. 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, Koh Lipe is very family-friendly. This is a perfect island to explore with kids. There are beautiful beaches, great snorkeling, and plenty of opportunities to check out wildlife. Your kids will also enjoy seeing the Sea la vie fire show.

Is Koh Lipe or Singapore Better for Couples?

Both Koh Lipe and Singapore are world-class destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Koh Lipe has plenty to offer. With its stunning beaches and beautiful nature, this is a great couple's destination. The island has wonderful snorkeling and white sandy beaches that are perfect for exploring with a loved one.

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.

Is Koh Lipe or Singapore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Singapore is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Singapore is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Koh Lipe. The island has become more popular than it was in years past, but it still offers a tranquil setting for those who are a bit jaded by the backpacker scene in Thailand.

Is Koh Lipe or Singapore Better for Students?

Singapore is a must-visit destination for students. However, Koh Lipe is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Singapore. As such a diverse city, you'll find plenty of international students as well as expats to hang out with.

Koh Lipe is not popular with students.

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

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Lipe. There are longtail boats, motorbike taxis, and golf cart taxis that you can hire.

Is Koh Lipe or Singapore a more walkable city?

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Koh Lipe is a very walkable island. It's an easy island to explore on foot and you can walk from one end of the island to the other in about half an hour.

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

Should I spend more time in Singapore or Koh Lipe?

How long in Koh Lipe or Singapore?

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

Families should spend more time in Singapore than Koh Lipe. 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 Koh Lipe. 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 Koh Lipe 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.

One day in Koh Lipe or Singapore?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Koh Lipe. 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.

Singapore is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Koh Lipe or Singapore?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the idyllic destination of Koh Lipe. 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 island 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 Koh Lipe or Singapore?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the tranquil island of Koh Lipe. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island 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 Koh Lipe or Singapore?

Koh Lipe 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 Koh Lipe, 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 Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Singapore, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Singapore.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Lipe and Singapore, we can see that Singapore is more expensive. And not only is Koh Lipe much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Lipe would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Lipe 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 Koh Lipe.

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