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

Should you visit Singapore or Boston?

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

Should I visit Singapore or Boston? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Singapore

Singapore is a diverse, colorful, and glitzy 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.

Boston

Boston is a classic, proud, and loyal city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Singapore and Boston: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Freedom Trail
Things to Consider
  • Less active music scene
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Singapore or Boston?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Boston than Singapore. While Singapore is larger than Boston, Boston has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Boston is better known for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, historical sights, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Singapore is more popular for its food, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty. Singapore is well known for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets. Boston is well known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. Also, Boston is famous for The Freedom Trail.

How is Singapore different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Singapore
Boston

Boston 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 Boston on the map. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

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 Singapore or Boston Better for Theater?

Singapore
Boston

Boston is notable for its shows and theatre. However, Singapore is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Singapore is not a theatre destination.

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

Singapore
Boston

Singapore is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Singapore, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Boston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Singapore or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Singapore
Boston

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

Boston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

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 Singapore or Boston Better for Music?

Singapore
Boston

Singapore is an unbeatable place for live music. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its live music scene.

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.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Is Singapore or Boston Better for Resorts?

Singapore
Boston

Singapore is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Boston is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Singapore for its luxury resorts. 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.

Boston is not a resort destination.

Is Singapore or Boston Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Singapore
Boston

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

Boston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Singapore or Boston Better for Beaches?

Singapore
Boston

Singapore is a good destination for its beaches. However, Boston is a mediocre city for the beache.

Singapore offers a nice beach destination. 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.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Is Singapore or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Singapore
Boston

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

The rich history of Boston can be explored in its historical center. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Singapore does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Singapore or Boston?

Singapore
Boston

Singapore is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Boston 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.


Is Singapore or Boston Better for Christmas?

Singapore
Boston

Boston is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Singapore does not offer Christmas activities.

Boston is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Singapore does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Singapore or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Singapore
Boston

Boston is notable for its Christmas markets. However, Singapore does not offer Christmas markets.

Many people head to Boston to see its Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Singapore does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Singapore or Boston Better for Families?

Singapore
Boston

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Singapore or Boston.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Singapore is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Boston is one of the most popular family destinations. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.


Is Singapore or Boston Better for Couples?

Singapore
Boston

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

Singapore is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city has stunning hotels, amazing restaurants, and plenty of fun activities that are perfect for couples.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Singapore or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Singapore
Boston

Singapore is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Singapore or Boston Better for Students?

Singapore
Boston

Singapore and Boston are both amazing destinations for students and younger travelers.

Many students frequent Singapore. 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 the world to visit Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.


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

Singapore
Boston

Both Singapore and Boston offer amazing public transit options.

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.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Boston can take you anywhere. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Is Singapore or Boston a more walkable city?

Singapore
Boston

Singapore and Boston both are amazing when exploring on foot.

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.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Boston. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Boston or Singapore?

How long in Singapore or Boston?

In either Singapore or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Singapore than Boston because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Singapore, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

Couples should spend more time in Singapore than Boston. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Singapore that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Singapore than Boston 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 Singapore or Boston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Singapore 2-7 
    Boston 3-5

One day in Singapore or Boston?

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.

You'll find museums and theater around the city of Boston. 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.


A weekend in Singapore or Boston?

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.

You'll find theater and nightlife around the historic big city of Boston. 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.

Five days in Singapore or Boston?

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.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the classic city of Boston. 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. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Singapore or Boston?

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.

Boston is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Singapore, The Best Tours for Seniors to Singapore, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Boston or Singapore?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Singapore is $152, while the average daily cost in Boston is $255. 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 Singapore and Boston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Singapore $98
    Boston $166
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Singapore $196
    Boston $332
Compare Hotels in Singapore and Boston

Looking for a hotel in Singapore or Boston? 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 Singapore


Hotels in Boston


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: Boston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Singapore $10
    Boston $37
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 City Highlights with Transfers: $20
  • Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) Private Transfer: $20
  • Private Airport Transfer in Singapore: $25
  • Singapore Arrival Transfer (Airport to Hotel): $29
  • Singapore City Hotel to Marina Bay Cruise Terminal Transfer: $29
  • MBCC & HFCC - Cruise Terminal to City Hotel Transfer: $29
  • Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) Private Transfer to Downtown: $30
  • Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) to Singapore - Arrival Private Transfer: $31
  • Singapore Airport: Shared Arrival or Departure Car Transfer : $31
  • Singapore Point to Point Transfer: $32
  • Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) to Downtown hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $33
  • Singapore Downtown to Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) -Departure Private Transfer: $33

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Boston are as follows:


  • Taxi
    $35
  • Subway Daily Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Boston Airport BOS: $28
  • Private Arrival Transfer from (BOS) Boston Airport: $28
  • Cruiseport Boston to Boston Airport (BOS) - Departure Transfer: $38
  • Boston Logan Intl Airport (BOS) to Flynn Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $38
  • Boston Airport(BOS) to Flynn Cruiseport Boston - Arrival Transfer: $38
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Boston Airport (BOS) to City Downtown: $69
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Boston Downtown to Boston Airport (BOS): $69
  • Boston to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) - Departure Private Transfer: $79
  • Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Boston - Arrival Private Transfer: $79
  • Departure Private Transfer Boston to Boston Airport BOS Business-Luxury Vehicle: $84
  • Private Transfer from Boston City Hotels to Newport Cruise Port: $88
  • Private transfer: Boston to Boston Airport (BOS): $96

Is it cheaper to fly into Singapore or Boston?

Prices for flights to both Boston and Singapore 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
    Singapore $28
    Boston $49
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.

  • Secrets of Singapore Kick Scooter Tour with Dinner: $47
  • Secrets of Singapore Kick Scooter Tour with Dinner: $47
  • Guided Hawker Culture & Street Food Tour at Night: $65
  • Local Hawker Food Tour with Tastings: $65
  • Marina Bay Sands Yacht Cruise with Dinner: $67
  • Evening Sightseeing Walking Tour with Dinner: $71
  • Eat and Snap in Chinatown Walking Food Tour: $71
  • Small Group: Michelin and Local Hawker Food Tour: $72
  • Private Korean Cooking Class in Balmoral Road: $74
  • Best Ever Katong Food Tour with Local Foodie - Eat till you drop!: $74
  • Zebra Urban Safari Bicycle Tour with Local Dinner and Drinks: $75
  • Little India Hawker Street Food Tour: $82

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boston

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

  • AM Coffee Walks with Salem Food Tours: $34
  • Boston's North End Pizza & History Walking Food Tour: $49
  • North End Pizza Tour with 3 Slices and Cannoli: $55
  • Boston Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • North End Food Experience with Pizza, Meats & Cheese: $75
  • Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on Boston Harbor: $77
  • Boston's North End Small Group Food Tour : $81
  • Ultimate Boston Food Tour: North End & Boston Public Market: $89
  • Ultimate Food Tour of North End & Public Market: $89
  • Union Square, Somerville Neighborhood Food Tour: $90
  • Boston Harbor: Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $108
  • Local Gems of the South End Neighborhood Food Tour: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Singapore $32
    Boston $33

Tours and Activities in Singapore

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

  • The Civic District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $3.99
  • Kampong Glam: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
  • Singapore's History of Trade: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Singapore Street Art Hunting in Kampong Glam: A Self-guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Big Little India: 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: $5.31
  • Indian Heritage Centre Entrance Ticket: $5.93
  • Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall Entry Ticket: $5.93
  • Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall Admission Ticket: $6.01
  • Science Center E-Ticket: $7.11

Typical Entertainment Prices in Boston

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


  • Two Tickets to Celtics Game
    $101
  • Duck Tour
    $32

Tours and Activities in Boston

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

  • Self Guided Audio Tour 'Hawthorne's Haunts' Haunted Walking Tour Salem: $5.00
  • Underground Railroad Audio App Self-Guided Tour: $5.00
  • Self Guided "Historic Boston Downtown Freedom Trail" Audio/GPS Walking Tour: $5.00
  • Self-Guided Smartphone Ghost Walking Tour in Boston: $5.95
  • Self-Guided Smartphone Ghost Walking Tour in Salem: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Freedom Trail Walking Audio Tour w/ App: $5.99
  • App Self-guided tours with Audioguide Boston: $6.46
  • Self Guided Classic Freedom Trail Location Aware (GPS) Walking Audio Tour: $7.75
  • Self-Guided Boston's Beacon Hill Underground Railroad Audio Tour Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Boston History and Highlights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Boston's History and Highlights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • City History and Highlights Audio App Walking Tour: $7.99

For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston, Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston, and The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Singapore $27
    Boston $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Singapore

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

  • Tour of Tiger Brewery in Singapore: $21
  • Party Singapore Bespoke Pub Crawl: $25
  • Singapore Pub Crawl - Party like a Local: $26
  • Little India Pub Crawl: $26
  • Halloween Horror Nightlife PartySingapore Bespoke Pub Crawl: $37
  • LeVeL33 Rooftop Brewery Tour & Craft Beer Tasting: $74

Sample the Local Flavors in Boston

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:

  • Boston Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl of Historic Pubs and Taverns: $30
  • Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures: $35
  • History Pub Crawl Tour Along the Freedom Trail: $59
  • Boston Small-Group Freedom Trail History Tour Pub Crawl: $60
  • Boston Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tour with a Snack: $105


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Singapore and Boston, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Singapore much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Singapore is in Asia and Boston is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Singapore would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Singapore 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston than you might in Singapore.

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


Which is Bigger, Singapore or Boston?

Singapore has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Boston. When comparing the sizes of Singapore and Boston, 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.