A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Seoul vs. Singapore for Food, Music, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Seoul 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 Seoul and Singapore can help you decide which place is right for you.

Seoul

Seoul is a colorful, cultural, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Singapore

Singapore is a glitzy, modern, and global 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.

Seoul and Singapore: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
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
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Seoul or Singapore?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Singapore than Seoul. While Seoul is larger than Singapore, Singapore has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Singapore is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Seoul is known for its nightlife. Singapore is more touristy than Seoul and is known for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets. It is also home to Merlion Park Waterfront. Seoul is popular for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy.

How is Seoul different from Singapore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Seoul
Singapore

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Seoul and Singapore.

Many visitors head to Seoul specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

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.


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

Seoul
Singapore

Both Seoul and Singapore offer world-class local cuisine and restaurants.

Seoul has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Food is a cultural obsession here, and you'll find everything from world class street food to award winning restaurants. The dishes are so much more diverse than Korean barbecue and kimchi. Many dishes are very spicy, with popular local foods including gamjatang (pork and potato soup) and jeon (savory pancakes).

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.

Is Seoul or Singapore Better for Nightlife?

Seoul
Singapore

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

Seoul has plenty to do after the sun goes down. This is definitely a work hard/play hard city, with locals working long hours during the day and then partying hard late into the night. The nightlife scene is strong both during the week and on weekends. There are bars, clubs, and lounges that are frequented by locals and tourists alike.

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 Seoul or Singapore Better for Music?

Seoul
Singapore

Both Seoul and Singapore offer world-class live music venues.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Seoul K-pop has put the city on the map for music, but you'll actually find a wide range of genres here including rock music and electronic dance music.

Singapore has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. As a globalized city, you'll find almost any type of music here. Popular music venues include Timbre, Zouk, and the Crazy Elephant.


Is Seoul or Singapore Better for Resorts?

Seoul
Singapore

Singapore is very popular for its resorts. However, Seoul is not a resort destination.

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.

Seoul is not a resort destination.

Is Seoul or Singapore Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Seoul
Singapore

Singapore is not a good place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Seoul 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.

Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Seoul or Singapore Better for Beaches?

Seoul
Singapore

Singapore is very good for the beache. However, Seoul is not a beach destination.

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.

Seoul is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Singapore?

Seoul
Singapore

Both Seoul and Singapore are world-class shopping destinations.

The abundance of shops in Seoul make it a world-class shopping destination. This bustling city offers traditional local items as well as Korean cosmetics and trendy fashion. Although shopping malls are spread throughout the city, some of the most popular shopping areas are found around Myeong-dong and Dongdaemun.

Many people travel to Singapore specifically to go shopping. You'll find tons of malls along Orchard Road, but for a more eclectic shopping experience head to the Chinatown Street Market.

Is Seoul or Singapore Better for Families?

Seoul
Singapore

Singapore is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Seoul. The city has a wide range of kid-friendly activities, ranging from the easy choices like amusement parks and children's museums, to the less obvious like kid-friendly cafes and markets. There are many entertainment options packed into a small space, so kids and adults alike will stay entertained.

Is Seoul or Singapore Better for Couples?

Seoul
Singapore

Singapore is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Singapore has plenty to offer. The city has stunning hotels, amazing restaurants, and plenty of fun activities that are perfect for couples.

Seoul makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.


Is Seoul or Singapore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Seoul
Singapore

Singapore is very popular for backpackers. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Seoul. The city isn't the most popular among backpackers, but those who visit will enjoy exploring a fascinating culture and delicious cuisine. Because it's a large city, you'll find a diversity of accommodation options including some budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

Is Seoul or Singapore Better for Students?

Seoul
Singapore

Singapore is very popular for students. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Seoul is a great city to visit as a student. Many international students head to Seoul National University, which has an excellent academic reputation. The city is also fun and energetic, so everyone will be entertained.

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

Seoul
Singapore

Both Seoul and Singapore offer world-class public transit options.

Seoul has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

With a huge network, the transit system in Singapore can get you around easily. There is the MRT subway system as well as buses that travel all over the city.


Is Seoul or Singapore a more walkable city?

Seoul
Singapore

Singapore is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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.

Seoul is a very walkable destination. Many neighborhoods are fun to explore on foot but do take note that parts of the city are very hilly and the weather can be bitter cold during the winter months.

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

Should I spend more time in Singapore or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Singapore?

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

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

One day in Seoul or Singapore?

People visit Seoul because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Singapore, many people enjoy the live music and food that this modern big city offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Seoul or Singapore?

People visit Seoul because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Singapore. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Seoul or Singapore?

People visit Seoul because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Singapore is a fun place to experience. In Singapore, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this big city destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Seoul or Singapore?

Seoul is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seoul, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Singapore, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this modern big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, and The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea.


Which place is cheaper, Singapore or Seoul?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Seoul is $110, 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 Seoul and Singapore in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Seoul 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 Seoul


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: Seoul Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Seoul $16
    Singapore $10
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seoul

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


  • Subway Card
    $3.72
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $5.21
  • Metro Ride
    $1.00
  • Seoul City Pass Plus
    $7.44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seoul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seoul:

  • Private Transfer Service from Seoul City Hotels to Gimpo Airport: $57
  • Everland Transfer + Admission ticket with Meal Coupon: $75
  • Seoul Incheon International Airport to from Incheon Private Transfer: $85
  • Seoul Airport: Private Departure Transfer from Seoul City Center: $87
  • Private Airport Transfer : Incheon airport to/from Seoul(~7 pax): $99
  • Private Airport Transfer * Incheon Airport <-> Seoul (1-5 people): $104
  • Incheon Airport Private Transfer between Seoul City: $105
  • Incheon Airport Transfer Service private transport to/from Seoul: $110
  • Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City to Incheon Airport (1-5 pax): $115
  • Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City - Gimpo Airport (1-5 pax): $120
  • Private Airport Transfer - Incheon Airport ⇔ Seoul (Up to 7 or 11 people): $138
  • Private Airport Transfer: Gimpo Airport to Seoul City (1-12 pax): $160

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:

  • Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) Private Transfer: $16
  • Private Airport Transfer in Singapore: $25
  • Private Airport Transfer in Singapore: $26
  • Private Departure Transfer From Singapore Hotel to Airport or Port : $27
  • Private Arrival Transfer From Singapore Airport or Port to Hotel: $27
  • Singapore Downtown to Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) -Departure Private Transfer: $28
  • Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) to Downtown hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $28
  • Singapore Arrival Transfer (Airport to Hotel): $29
  • Singapore Departure Transfer (Hotel to Airport): $29
  • Singapore Cruise Terminal to Airport Transfer: $29
  • Singapore Cruise Terminal to City Transfer: $29
  • Singapore City Centre to Cruise Terminal Transfer: $29

Is it cheaper to fly into Seoul or Singapore?

Prices for flights to both Singapore and Seoul 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
    Seoul $31
    Singapore $28
Typical Food Prices in Seoul

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


  • Rice with Kimchi & Bacon
    $4.46
  • Waffle
    $0.74
  • Dippin' Dots
    $1.49
  • Chicken Fried Rice
    $4.09
  • Chicken Stick
    $1.49
  • Drinking Yoghurt & Mi Chew
    $1.41
  • Lunch Buffet
    $4.46
  • Donut
    $0.74
  • Mushroom Burger
    $3.87
  • Green Tea Ice Cream
    $2.46
  • Udon & Sushi
    $5.21
  • Fresh Burger
    $3.57
  • Soba Noodles Lunch
    $3.35
  • Bibimbap Lunch
    $3.72
  • Fried Rice
    $4.09
  • Vietnamese Dinner
    $7.07
  • Breakfast and Coffee for 2
    $7.07
  • Donut
    $1.86

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seoul

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

  • Sunset Walking Tour in Naksan Park with Dinner: $61
  • Seoul Ultimate Food Tour: $65
  • Energizing Korean Cooking Class in a Local Home in Seoul: $71
  • Night Market Food Tour: $72
  • Authentic Korean Home Cooking and Market Tour: $76
  • K-FOOD one day cooking class: $77
  • Korean Cooking Class with Full-Course Meal & Local Market Tour in Seoul: $81
  • [Seoul] Cooking Class for Korean Food with NOW COOKING Studio: $81
  • Secret Food Tours Seoul w/ Private Tour Option: $99
  • Noryangjin Fish Market Dinner: $123
  • 3-Hour Seoul Night Food Tour: Hongdae & Yeonnam: $130
  • Seoul Food n Night view with Local Korean BBQ dinner Hongdae st.: $150

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.
    Seoul $27
    Singapore $32
Typical Entertainment Prices in Seoul

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Seoul are as follows:


  • Palace Tickets
    $5.95
  • Movie Ticket
    $5.95
  • Kimchi Museum
    $2.23

Tours and Activities in Seoul

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

  • Alternative A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Seoul Changdeokgung Palace Hanbok Experience Hanboknam (내국인불가): $7.20
  • Gyeongbokgung Palace Hanbok Rental Experience Hanboknam (내국인불가): $7.30
  • [NEWTRO ART TOUR] Media art museum & walking tour: $7.71
  • Alive Museum Discount Ticket at Insa-dong(내국인불가): $9.70
  • Dynamic Maze Discount Ticket Insa-dong(내국인불가): $10
  • Skip the Line: 63 Building Observatory + Aqua Planet 63 Combo Ticket: $11
  • Skip the Line: Figure Museum W Ticket (내국인 불가): $11
  • Theater Ticket for Welcome Daehakro The Really Bad Girl: $15
  • Private 10 Food Tasting Tour in an Authentic Food Market in Seoul: $15
  • Vaunce Gangnam Trampoline Samseong Center Discount Ticket(내국인불가): $22
  • 3-Hour Self-guided Sokcho Tour with Private Transportation: $24

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
    Seoul $12
    Singapore $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Seoul

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

  • Chunpoong Makgeolli Brewery Tour: $10
  • The Seoul Pub Crawl [official]: $21
  • Soju Tasting at Distillery - story of 3 pigs: $42

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 Seoul and Singapore, we can see that Singapore is more expensive. And not only is Seoul much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Seoul would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Seoul 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 Seoul.

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


Which is Bigger, Seoul or Singapore?

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