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

Should you visit Singapore or Byron Bay?

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

Should I visit Singapore or Byron Bay? 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 global, diverse, and colorful 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.

Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a mellow, vegan-friendly, and carefree town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Singapore and Byron Bay: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • 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 attractive beach
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Singapore or Byron Bay?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Singapore. Although Singapore and Byron Bay are both popular with visitors, Singapore has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Singapore is more popular for its museums, food, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and big city activities, while Byron Bay is known for its nightlife, beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Singapore is popular for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets. It is also home to Merlion Park Waterfront. Byron Bay is popular for its community spirit, undeveloped beaches, and world renowned festivals.

How is Singapore different from Byron Bay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Byron Bay 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 Byron Bay?

Singapore
Byron Bay

Singapore is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Byron Bay is not a good town for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Singapore. 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.

While most people don't head to Byron Bay specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. It's a small town that's all about the laid back beach scene so you won't find many museums or iconic buildings in town. Do check out the Cape Byron Lighthouse if you get the chance.


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

Singapore
Byron Bay

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Singapore have been singled out for their culinary prowess. From local dives to five star restaurants, the city's food scene is all about diversity. Make sure you try Hainanese chicken rice, chili crab, and Hokkien prawn mee.

Byron Bay is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The restaurant scene is just starting to gain momentum. There are a growing number of trendy bistros and international flavors around town. You'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, as well as smoothies and brunch cafes.

Is Singapore or Byron Bay Better for Nightlife?

Singapore
Byron Bay

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

Byron Bay has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene is all about relaxed luxury. There are high end cocktail bars, piano bars, live music venues, and DJ led parties. You can head to a bistro on the beach or dance the night away at one of the nightclubs.

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 Byron Bay Better for Music?

Singapore
Byron Bay

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Byron Bay 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.

Byron Bay is not a live music destination.


Is Singapore or Byron Bay Better for Resorts?

Singapore
Byron Bay

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its resorts. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its luxury resorts.

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.

There are plenty of resorts in Byron Bay to choose from. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly villas, and contemporary apartments that offer great accommodation in a good environment.

Is Singapore or Byron Bay Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Singapore
Byron Bay

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

Byron Bay is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Singapore or Byron Bay Better for Beaches?

Singapore
Byron Bay

Byron Bay 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 Byron Bay. The pristine beaches are at the heart of the appeal in this town. Main Beach is, as the name implies, right in the heart of town. Many beaches are lined with forest and there are waves that are great for surfing. At its heart, this town will always be a surfer's town.

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 Singapore or Byron Bay Better for Hiking?

Singapore
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Singapore is not a hiking destination.

Byron Bay is a good destination for hiking. There are many walking trails that make nature accessible. Whether you want to walk along the coastline or into the hills, there are many places to enjoy a peaceful stroll.

Singapore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Singapore or Byron Bay?

Singapore
Byron Bay

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Byron Bay. In the past, this was never a shopping town, but in recent years it has attracted fashion icons and free spirits. There are many boutique shops on the main streets in town and there are still quirky stores that offer the unexpected.

Is Singapore or Byron Bay Better for Families?

Singapore
Byron Bay

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Singapore is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Byron Bay is a family-friendly city. It's laid back vibe and beautiful beaches offer a great place for families to vacation. There are plenty of family-friendly accommodation options and, while there aren't the theme parks and kid-centered activities of some places, there is still plenty to enjoy in the area.


Is Singapore or Byron Bay Better for Couples?

Singapore
Byron Bay

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Singapore is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The city has stunning hotels, amazing restaurants, and plenty of fun activities that are perfect for couples.

Byron Bay makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's known for its instagram-worthy settings and its popularity with influencers. Couples will appreciate the laid back vibe and chill beach scene. There are great restaurants and plenty of nice hotels and resorts to choose from.

Is Singapore or Byron Bay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Singapore
Byron Bay

Singapore is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Byron Bay. It's lost some of its original hippie surf town vibe, but there is still a great backpacker scene. Now it's more popular with the influencer crowd, but the party scene and beautiful beaches attract backpackers as well.

Is Singapore or Byron Bay Better for Students?

Singapore
Byron Bay

Singapore is a must-visit destination for students. However, Byron Bay is not popular with students.

Singapore is a very popular city for students. As such a diverse city, you'll find plenty of international students as well as expats to hang out with.

Byron Bay is not popular with students.


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

Singapore
Byron Bay

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Byron Bay is not a good town 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 Byron Bay. There is a bus service that is provided by Blanch's Bus Company.

Is Singapore or Byron Bay a more walkable city?

Singapore
Byron Bay

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Byron Bay is a somewhat walkable city. The town itself is compact and it's possible to explore on foot, but if you want to go further you'll need to have access to a vehicle.

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

Should I spend more time in Byron Bay or Singapore?

How long in Singapore or Byron Bay?

Both Singapore and Byron Bay have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Singapore has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Singapore than Byron Bay. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Singapore, and 3-7 days is enough time in Byron Bay.

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

One day in Singapore or Byron Bay?

People visit Singapore because there is so much to do. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Byron Bay. 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.


A weekend in Singapore or Byron Bay?

People visit Singapore because there is so much to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the Bohemian destination of Byron Bay. 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 town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Singapore or Byron Bay?

People visit Singapore 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. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

You'll find nightlife and food around the relaxed town of Byron Bay. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Singapore or Byron Bay?

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

Byron Bay 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 Byron Bay, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Australia, and The Best Contiki Tours to Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Byron Bay or Singapore?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Singapore is $151, while the average daily cost in Byron Bay is $139. 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 Byron Bay in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Singapore $98
    Byron Bay $66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Singapore $196
    Byron Bay $132
Compare Hotels in Singapore and Byron Bay

Looking for a hotel in Singapore or Byron Bay? 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 Byron Bay


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: Byron Bay Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Singapore $10
    Byron Bay $32
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
  • MBCC & HFCC - Cruise Terminal to City Hotel Transfer: $29
  • Singapore City Hotel to Marina Bay Cruise Terminal Transfer: $29
  • Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) Private Transfer to Downtown: $29
  • 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 Downtown to Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) -Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) to Downtown hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Byron Bay

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Byron Bay:

  • Byron Bay Tandem Skydive with Transfer Options: $240

Is it cheaper to fly into Singapore or Byron Bay?

Prices for flights to both Byron Bay 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 $27
    Byron Bay $47
Typical Food Prices in Singapore

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


  • Breakfast
    $4.48
  • Sugarcane Juice
    $1.47

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: $46
  • 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
  • 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: $81
  • Hands-on Cooking Class with Cultural Immersion: $81

Typical Food Prices in Byron Bay

Some typical examples of dining costs in Byron Bay are as follows:


  • Dinner at Olivo (for 2)
    $58

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Singapore $32
    Byron Bay $35

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
  • The Civic District: Hear stories about Singapore's past on an audio tour: $5.20
  • Singapore's History of Trade: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Big Little India: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Singapore Street Art Hunting in Kampong Glam: A Self-guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Kampong Glam: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Singapore's Malay Culture: $5.20
  • Indian Heritage Centre Admission Ticket: $5.31
  • Indian Heritage Centre Entrance Ticket: $5.87
  • Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall Entry Ticket: $5.87
  • Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall Admission Ticket: $6.01
  • Science Center E-Ticket: $7.04

Typical Entertainment Prices in Byron Bay

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


  • Buddha Gardens Spa (for 2)
    $123
  • Surf Lesson
    $42

Tours and Activities in Byron Bay

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

  • LIGHTHOUSE TRAIL Guided Sunrise Tours to Cape Byron Lighthouse: $32
  • Skip the Line: Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens Admission Ticket: $32
  • Brunswick River Scenic Kayak Tour: $39
  • Cape Byron Aboriginal Tour: $45
  • Broken Head Aboriginal Tour: $45
  • Sunset Brunswick River Nature Kayak Tour: $46
  • Broken Head Aboriginal Tour: $46
  • Cape Byron Aboriginal Tour: $46
  • Sunset River Cruise near Byron Bay: $46
  • From Byron: Half Day Learn to Surf Tour: $52
  • Experience The Thrill Half Day Surf School in Byron Bay: $52
  • Group 2.5 Hour Stand-Up Paddle Board Tour: $56

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Singapore $27
    Byron Bay $14

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:Wildest Nightlife Clubbing: $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 and Craft Beer Tasting: $73

Sample the Local Flavors in Byron Bay

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

  • Arvo Session Brewery and Distillery Tour: $97
  • Afternoon Brewery and Distillery session : $99
  • Full-Day Brewery and Distillery Tour with Lunch: $127
  • Full Barrel Brewery and Distillery tour: $129


When comparing the travel costs between Singapore and Byron Bay, we can see that Singapore is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Singapore is in Asia and Byron Bay is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Singapore or Byron Bay?

Singapore has a larger population, and is about 520 times larger than the population of Byron Bay. When comparing the sizes of Singapore and Byron Bay, 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.