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

Should you visit Singapore or Christchurch?

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

Should I visit Singapore or Christchurch? 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 colorful, glitzy, and modern city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of Singapore is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Singapore travel costs.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a adventure-filled, cultural, and outdoorsy city. Christchurch offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Christchurch travel costs.

Singapore and Christchurch: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Singapore or Christchurch?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Singapore than Christchurch, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Singapore is more popular for its food, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Christchurch is known for its nightlife, beaches, and hiking. Singapore is more touristy than Christchurch and is known for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets. It is also home to Merlion Park Waterfront. Christchurch is popular for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere.

How is Singapore different from Christchurch?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Singapore or Christchurch.

Singapore offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Many visitors head to Christchurch specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with street art and local galleries. There's also Canterbury Museum, the International Antarctic Centre, the Arts Centre, and the Riccarton House & Bush.

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

Singapore is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Singapore is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Christchurch has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a mix of cozy cafes and casual eateries around town. You'll also find some fine dining restaurants as well as international flavors.

Is Singapore or Christchurch Better for Nightlife?

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

Christchurch has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has its share of dance clubs, live music venues, and laid back bars. You'll find a number of popular hangout spots around Oxford Terrace or on the historic New Regent Street.

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 Christchurch Better for Music?

Singapore is terrific for its live music scene. However, Christchurch 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.

Christchurch is not a live music destination.

Is Singapore or Christchurch Better for Resorts?

Singapore is terrific for its resorts. However, Christchurch is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Singapore is a great 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.

Christchurch is not a resort destination.

Is Singapore or Christchurch Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Singapore is not so good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Christchurch 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.

Christchurch is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Singapore or Christchurch Better for Beaches?

Christchurch is notable for the beach. Also, Singapore is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

Christchurch is considered a top beach destination. There are sandy beaches in the area with water sports and various amenities. The summer months are the most popular time for hanging out at the beach, and you'll find local families playing in the sun or enjoying a picnic.

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 Christchurch Better for Hiking?

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

Christchurch is a popular spot for hiking. There are many beautiful hikes in the area that take you along the coastline or past local historic sights. The landscape is diverse and you'll find many amazing parks in the area. Hooker Valley Track is one of the best hiking routes nearby.

Singapore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Singapore or Christchurch?

Singapore is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Christchurch 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Christchurch. There's a mix of boutique shops, outlet malls, and open air markets. Some of the best shopping places include the Tannery and the Colombo.

Is Singapore or Christchurch More Beautiful?

Singapore is well known for its scenery and beauty. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Singapore is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It is a beautiful city with many lights and colorful neighborhoods.

Christchurch offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its many beautiful parks, gardens, and outdoor spaces, this is a very scenic city.

Is Singapore or Christchurch Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Singapore or Christchurch.

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.

Christchurch is one of the most popular family destinations. The International Antarctic Centre is a thrilling and fun experience. There's also the Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. For adrenaline junkies there are the ropes courses at the Adrenalin Forest. There are also many indoor playgrounds and rock climbing facilities.

Is Singapore or Christchurch Better for Couples?

Singapore is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Singapore makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The city has stunning hotels, amazing restaurants, and plenty of fun activities that are perfect for couples.

Christchurch is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Punting on the Avon River is one of the most romantic activities in the city. There are also botanical gardens, parks, and natural areas that are fun to explore. Nearby, you can do a wine tour, or there are cocktail bars and charming restaurants in town. The city also has a nice theater and many other date night activities.

Is Singapore or Christchurch Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Singapore is terrific for backpackers. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Christchurch. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Is Singapore or Christchurch Better for Students?

Singapore is terrific for students. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Singapore. As such a diverse city, you'll find plenty of international students as well as expats to hang out with.

Christchurch is very popular with students. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

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

Singapore is terrific for its public transit. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Singapore can take you anywhere. There is the MRT subway system as well as buses that travel all over the city.

While Christchurch offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

Is Singapore or Christchurch a more walkable city?

Singapore is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Christchurch 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.

Christchurch is a very walkable destination. The city center is relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Christchurch or Singapore?

How long in Singapore or Christchurch?

It's fun to spend time in either Singapore or Christchurch. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Singapore due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Singapore, and 2-4 days is enough time in Christchurch.

Families should spend more time in Singapore than Christchurch. 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 Christchurch. 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 Christchurch if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Singapore.

One day in Singapore or Christchurch?

Each neighborhood in Singapore has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Christchurch. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Christchurch?

Singapore is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the adventure-filled destination of Christchurch. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Five days in Singapore or Christchurch?

Each neighborhood in Singapore has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy city of Christchurch. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Singapore or Christchurch?

Singapore is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. It's also a relaxing resort destination. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Christchurch is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Singapore or Christchurch?

Singapore has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Christchurch. When comparing the sizes of Singapore and Christchurch, 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.