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

Should you visit Phuket or Singapore?

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

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

Phuket

Phuket is a party-hard, stunning, and activity-filled resort island. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Phuket and Singapore: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as popular for scuba diving and snorkeling
  • Less attractive beach


Is there more to do in Phuket or Singapore?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Singapore than Phuket, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Singapore is more popular for its museums, food, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Phuket is known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Phuket is more touristy than Singapore and is known for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. Singapore is popular for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets. It is also home to Merlion Park Waterfront.

How is Phuket different from Singapore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Phuket
Singapore

Singapore is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Singapore can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Phuket
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Singapore is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Phuket is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Because it served as an international port for so long, food around the island has many international influences. For the most authentic local food, head into Phuket Town. Many dishes include seafood, but there are also chicken curries and noodle soup. Like elsewhere in Thailand, the food can be quite spicy but because the island is so touristy, they're accustomed to people asking for "no spice."

Is Phuket or Singapore Better for Nightlife?

Phuket
Singapore

Phuket is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Singapore is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Phuket is a world class party destination. The island has a long running reputation as a party destination and it lives up to expectations. The biggest party area is Patong, particularly around Bangla Road, but even in Kata and Karon, it's hard to escape the party atmosphere.

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 Phuket or Singapore Better for Music?

Phuket
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Phuket is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone 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.

Phuket is not a live music destination.


Is Phuket or Singapore Better for Resorts?

Phuket
Singapore

With a similar set of options, fantastic resorts can be found in both Phuket and Singapore.

Phuket offers an unforgettable resort vacation. It's easy accessibility and larger size make this the premiere resort destination in Thailand. There are five star resorts, family-friendly resorts, and everything in between. Many people use the island as a base for exploring other nearby islands. Any resort or tour company can arrange excursions or activities for guests.

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.

Is Phuket or Singapore Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Phuket
Singapore

Phuket is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Singapore is a mediocre city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Phuket. You can dive and snorkel year round, but the visibility is usually best between November and May. There are countless boat tours available and the easy accessibility make this a good base for snorkeling and diving. Many areas are overrun with tourists though, so it'll be hard to find a quiet, undisturbed location.

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

Is Phuket or Singapore Better for Beaches?

Phuket
Singapore

Phuket 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 Phuket. The island has more than 30 beaches to choose from, ranging from party hard areas to a few quieter gems in more remote locations. The area became a world-famous destination because of its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, and the beaches will not disappoint, even if development has taken over the island.

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 the Shopping Better in Phuket or Singapore?

Phuket
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Singapore make it a world-class shopping destination. You'll find tons of malls along Orchard Road, but for a more eclectic shopping experience head to the Chinatown Street Market.

Phuket has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping malls offer a range of stores, air conditioning, and fixed prices while markets have more local items and unique souvenirs. There are also galleries and other souvenir shops all over the island.

Is Phuket or Singapore Better for Families?

Phuket
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Phuket offers lots of family activities. Many people visit this island with kids because it has beautiful beaches and tons of activities including water sports, water parks, and amusement areas. The island is filled with a diversity of tourists, so you'll encounter a number of areas with party-hard atmospheres, but there are also tons of family-friendly resorts to choose from as well.

Is Phuket or Singapore Better for Couples?

Phuket
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Phuket is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. The island is filled with beautiful beaches and plenty of activities for all travel styles. It's a tourist and party mecca in Thailand with many resorts and restaurants to choose from.


Is Phuket or Singapore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Phuket
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. However, Phuket is a resort island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Singapore. 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.

Phuket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It has a long history as a party island with expensive prices and hordes of tourists. Many backpackers complain about the lack of authenticity and prefer to spend their time elsewhere.

Is Phuket or Singapore Better for Students?

Phuket
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Phuket 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.

Phuket is not popular with students.

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

Phuket
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Singapore is top-notch. There is the MRT subway system as well as buses that travel all over the city.

While Phuket offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.


Is Phuket or Singapore a more walkable city?

Phuket
Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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.

Phuket is a somewhat walkable resort island. Most of the hotels and resorts are walking distance to the beach and many resort areas are small enough to be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Singapore or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Singapore?

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

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

One day in Phuket or Singapore?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort island of Phuket. 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 bustling city that offers something for everyone. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Phuket or Singapore?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the party-hard destination of Phuket. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Singapore is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Phuket or Singapore?

You'll find nightlife and food around the party-hard resort island of Phuket. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this resort island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this resort island has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Singapore. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Phuket or Singapore?

Phuket 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 Phuket, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Singapore is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Singapore, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Singapore.


Which place is cheaper, Singapore or Phuket?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Phuket is $106, while the average daily cost in Singapore is $152. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Phuket and Singapore in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Phuket $56
    Singapore $98
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Phuket $112
    Singapore $196
Compare Hotels in Phuket and Singapore

Looking for a hotel in Phuket 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 Phuket


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: Phuket Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Phuket $11
    Singapore $10
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Phuket

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


  • Longtail Taxi (for Two)
    $8.27
  • Taxi from Airport to Phuket Town
    $6.89

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Phuket

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Phuket:

  • Phuket Airport Bus Transfer from/to Rawai Beach: $5.43
  • Gun Shooting Range in Phuket (Transfer Only): $6.91
  • Airport Transfer To / From Hotel & Free Wifi: $10
  • Airport Transfer To / From Hotel & Free Wifi: $10
  • Ferry Transfer to/from Phi Phi Tonsai or Laem Tong: $12
  • Shared Transfer Phuket International Airport (HKT) To Phuket City - Arrival: $13
  • Phuket Airport Transfer (SHA Plus) : $13
  • One-Way Ferry Transfer to/from Koh Phi Phi: $14
  • Phuket International and Domestic Airport - Arrival Transfer : $16
  • Phuket International and Domestic Airport - Departure Transfer : $16
  • Phuket Airport (HKT) Departure Transfer from Phuket Hotels (Shared or Private): $16
  • Phuket International Airport (HKT): Transfer to/from Phuket: $17

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Singapore

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


  • Taxi to Airport
    $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Singapore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Singapore:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Phuket or Singapore?

Prices for flights to both Singapore and Phuket 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
    Phuket $22
    Singapore $28
Typical Food Prices in Phuket

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


  • Casual Dinner (for Two)
    $7.97
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $4.69
  • Sit Down Dinner (for Two)
    $12
  • Thai Noodles
    $2.48
  • Bananas
    $0.69
  • Pizza (for Two)
    $8.27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phuket

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

  • Thai Cooking Class 1.5 Hrs ( 2 Dishes Menu): $37
  • Thai Cooking Class 2 Hrs ( 3 Dishes Menu): $39
  • Express Thai Cooking Class in Phuket: $44
  • Coral Island Trip & SunSet Dinner Cruise by Catamaran Yatch : $45
  • Thai Cooking Class 2 Hrs ( 4 Dishes Menu): $48
  • Flavours of the South Guided Food Tour: $51
  • Flavours of the South Food Tour: $52
  • Afternoon Cocktails or Dinner in the Sky: $53
  • Vegetarian Organic Thai Cooking Class and Market Tour in Phuket: $53
  • Phuket Coral Island Sunset with Dinner by Catamaran Yacht: $53
  • Siam Niramit Show with Dinner Phuket: $53
  • Coral Island & Sunset Dinner by Sailing Catamaran: $54

Typical Food Prices in Singapore

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


  • Breakfast
    $4.52
  • Sugarcane Juice
    $1.48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Singapore

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

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Phuket $43
    Singapore $32
Typical Entertainment Prices in Phuket

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


  • One Day Boat Tour
    $25
  • Scuba Diving (Two Dives)
    $69
  • Thai Oil Massage
    $18
  • Surfboard Rental
    $8.27

Tours and Activities in Phuket

Here are a few actual costs in Phuket for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Phuket Botanic Garden Admission Ticket: $3.09
  • Baan Teelanka Upside Down House Entry Ticket: $12
  • Phuket to Phi Phi Tonsai Ferry by Royal Jet Cruiser with Pickup Service: $13
  • Trick Eye Museum Admission Ticket: $14
  • Phang Nga Bay Skywalk at Samet Nangshe Admission Ticket: $14
  • The Selfie Experience Phuket Admission Ticket: $14
  • Phuket Trickeye Museum Day Admission Ticket: $14
  • Phuket to Koh Phi Phi by Phi Phi Cruiser: $17
  • Travstore Original Phuket Discovery Tour: $18
  • Simon Cabaret Show Phuket (Ticket Only): $20
  • Simon Cabaret Show Phuket Entrance Tickets : $21
  • ATV, Zipline Adventure: $21

Tours and Activities in Singapore

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Phuket $6.42
    Singapore $27
Typical Alcohol Prices in Phuket

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Phuket from other travelers:


  • Cocktails (for Two)
    $5.51
  • Beer
    $2.34

Sample the Local Flavors in Phuket

Also in Phuket, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Phuket Guided Pub Crawl: $25
  • Pub Crawl Tour: $25
  • Phuket Real City Tour with Rum Cocktail Distillery: $79
  • Phuket Sightseeing Tour with Rum Distillery : $99
  • Phuket Rum Distillery Cocktail Workshop And Wat Chalong Temple : $172
  • Phuket Rum Distillery Cocktail Workshop & Wat Chalong Temple: $213

Sample the Local Flavors in Singapore

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

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


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

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


Which is Bigger, Phuket or Singapore?

Singapore has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Phuket. When comparing the sizes of Phuket 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.