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

Should you visit Singapore or London?

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

Should I visit Singapore or London? 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 glitzy, modern, and global city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

London

London is a historic, diverse, and iconic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Singapore and London: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Big Ben


Is there more to do in Singapore or London?

Tourists will generally find more to do in London than Singapore. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. London is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, and christmas markets, while Singapore attracts visitors for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. London is more touristy than Singapore and is popular for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also well known for Big Ben. Singapore is famous for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets.

Big Ben
Big Ben

How is Singapore different from London?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Singapore
London

London 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 London on the map. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.

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 London Better for Theater?

Singapore
London

London is a must-visit destination for its shows and theatre. However, Singapore is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in London draw crowds from around the world. The West End theater district is where you'll find the most popular musicals. Famous theaters include Apollo Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Piccadilly Theatre. There are often Wednesday matinees that are a bit cheaper than the evening shows. You may also be able to get discounted last minute tickets if you're visiting during the less touristy times.

Singapore is not a theatre destination.

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

Singapore
London

Singapore is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, London is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Singapore has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, London makes for a great culinary experience. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

Is Singapore or London Better for Nightlife?

Singapore
London

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

London is a world class party destination. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

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 London Better for Music?

Singapore
London

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

In Singapore you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. As a globalized city, you'll find almost any type of music here. Popular music venues include Timbre, Zouk, and the Crazy Elephant.

London is known as a music capital around the world. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Is Singapore or London Better for Resorts?

Singapore
London

Singapore is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, London 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.

London is not a resort destination.

Is Singapore or London Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Singapore
London

Singapore is mediocre for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, London is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

London is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Singapore or London Better for Beaches?

Singapore
London

Singapore is very good for the beach. However, London 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.

London is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Singapore or London?

Singapore
London

Both Singapore and London are world-class shopping destinations.

Singapore is a world class destination for shoppers. You'll find tons of malls along Orchard Road, but for a more eclectic shopping experience head to the Chinatown Street Market.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in London. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

Is Singapore or London Better for Christmas?

Singapore
London

London is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Singapore does not offer Christmas activities.

London is a fantastic destination at Christmas. There's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful Christmas lights throughout the city. You can also listen to Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square or see a classic Christmas show.

Singapore does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Singapore or London Better for Christmas Markets?

Singapore
London

London is a must-visit destination for its Christmas markets. However, Singapore does not offer Christmas markets.

The active Christmas markets during the holiday season make London very popular during this season. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Singapore does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Singapore or London Better for Families?

Singapore
London

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Singapore or London.

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.

London is one of the most popular family destinations. Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.

Is Singapore or London Better for Couples?

Singapore
London

With fun activities for couples, both Singapore and London make for a world-class place to visit.

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.

For those traveling as a couple, London has plenty to offer. With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.


Is Singapore or London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Singapore
London

Both Singapore and London are world-class destinations for backpackers.

Singapore is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Many backpackers frequent London. Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.

Is Singapore or London Better for Students?

Singapore
London

Singapore and London are both world-class 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 London. The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.

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

Singapore
London

Both Singapore and London offer world-class 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 London can take you anywhere. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.


Is Singapore or London a more walkable city?

Singapore
London

Singapore and London both are world-class 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 London. With many walkable areas, it is considered to be one of the world's most walkable major cities.

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

Should I spend more time in London or Singapore?

How long in Singapore or London?

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

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

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

One day in Singapore or London?

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 London. 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 London?

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 global big city of London. 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 London?

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 international city of London. 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.

A week in Singapore or London?

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.

London is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in London, 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 Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, London 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 London is $239. 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 London in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Singapore $98
    London $155
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Singapore $196
    London $310
Compare Hotels in Singapore and London

Looking for a hotel in Singapore or London? 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 London


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: London Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Singapore $10
    London $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:

  • Private Transfer from Seletar Airport (XSP) to Legoland Malasya: $277
  • Singapore to Tioman island (Mersing jetty) - Private Transfer: $270
  • Private Transfer from Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) to Legoland (Malaysia): $258
  • Private Transfer : Singapore Hotel to Kuala Lumpur Hotel: $250
  • Private Singapore City Tour + Roundtrip Transfers: $191
  • Singapore River Wonders & Night Safari ( Tickets & Transfer ) : $184
  • Singapore Zoo & Night Safari Day ( Tickets & Transfer ) : $184
  • Singapore Bird Paradise & Zoo Full Day (Ticket & Transfer ) : $174
  • Singapore Zoo & River Wonder Day Ticket & Transfer : $174
  • Singapore Bird Park & River Wonder (Tickets & Transfer ) : $174
  • Singapore Hotels to Kuala Lumpur Hotels one way Private Transfer: $174
  • Singapore River & Night Safari-COMBO (Shared Transfer): $172

Typical Local Transportation Prices in London

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


  • Taxi Ride
    $18
  • Heathrow Express
    $23
  • Luggage Storage
    $10
  • London Map
    $1.63
  • Oyster Card
    $45
  • Train to Gatwick Airport (2)
    $27
  • Oyster Card
    $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in London

Also for London, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bus Transfer between Heathrow Airport & Premier Inn: $7.56
  • Bus Transfer Between Heathrow Airport & Radisson RED: $8.57
  • Transfer Heathrow Airport to/from Renaissance Hotel: $8.57
  • Heathrow Airport to North London Private Transfer: $13
  • Heathrow Airport to/from Central London Bus Transfer: $15
  • Heathrow Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Birmingham: $18
  • Heathrow Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Bristol City Center: $18
  • National Express | Luton Airport to Central London Transfers: $18
  • Heathrow Airport to/from Southampton Bus Transfer: $20
  • Departure Private Transfer Argostoli to Kephalonia Airport EFL in Business Car: $21
  • Bus Transfer between Heathrow & Luton Airports: $21
  • Heathrow Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Stansted Airport: $24

Is it cheaper to fly into Singapore or London?

Prices for flights to both London 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
    London $43
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

Typical Food Prices in London

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to London:


  • Lunch at Starbucks
    $16
  • Tea
    $7.56
  • Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason
    $49
  • Morning Tea
    $8.00
  • Pastry
    $6.30
  • Sushi Dinner for One
    $23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in London

For London, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Dinner and Live DJ at A Fancy Restaurant: $17
  • Hard Rock Cafe London Old Park Lane with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $38
  • Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $39
  • Tea and Doughnuts: Borough Market Walking Food Tour: $44
  • Christmas Tea and Doughnuts: Historic Borough Market Food Tour: $65
  • International Stand Up Comedy Showcase - Show & Dinner (Côte): $85
  • International Stand Up Comedy Showcase - Show & Dinner (Côte): $87
  • London Borough Market Small Group Food Tour: $87
  • Plant Power - Vegan Food Tour: $88
  • Tea and Doughnuts: Borough Market Walking Food Tour (Small Group): $96
  • Eat the East End food tour with London Bites Tours: $109
  • 3 Hours Borough Market Morning Food Tour with London Bites Tours: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Singapore $32
    London $41

Tours and Activities in Singapore

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

  • SG Adventure Pass with Dukw Tour: $124
  • SG Explorer Pass with Dukw Tour: $67
  • Singapore : Axe Throwing Experience : $40
  • Singapore's Chinatown "Off The Beaten Track" Foodie Tour : $107
  • VIP private Night Tour + Light Show, Night market & more : $155
  • *16 Hrs Tailored Melaka Highlights Van Tour from Singapore w' Tour Guide: $161
  • *17 or 19 Hrs Kuala Lumpur Van Tour from Singapore w' Tour Guide: $188
  • *19 Hrs Kuala Lumpur&Melaka Van Tour from Singapore w' Tour Guide: $185
  • 1-way Singapore hotel pickup (Batam private tour guests only): $120
  • 3 Ethnic Neighborhoods & UNESCO Street Food / Cultural Experience: $151
  • 3 Hour Private Sunset Tour in Singapore: $208
  • 3-Hour Marina Bay Best Spots Walking Tour: $69

Typical Entertainment Prices in London

For London, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Two Tickets to a Concert
    $104
  • London Symphony Orchestra
    $43
  • London Pass
    $59
  • Comedy Show
    $10

Tours and Activities in London

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for London.

  • Bloomsbury's Contribution to Health Care History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.48
  • Soho's Contribution to Health Care History Walking Audio Tour: $5.48
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in London: $5.50
  • Camden Town's Quirky Characters: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.54
  • Covent Garden: A Self-Guided Photography Tour : $5.54
  • Secret An audio tour about the heritage of the city's Russian immigrants: $5.54
  • The Life and Literature of Charles Dickens: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.55
  • Photographing Dynamic Soho: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.55
  • Southbank Photography Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.55
  • Bustling Bloomsbury: A Self-Guided Street Photography Tour: $5.55
  • The City through the Centuries: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of London: $5.99
  • Thomas Cubitt’s Pimlico: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $5.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Singapore $27
    London $19

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

Sample the Local Flavors in London

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

  • Historic Pub Walking Tour of London: $13
  • Shoreditch Pub Crawl in London: $19
  • Haunted London Pub Walking Tour: $21
  • Central London Pub Crawl: $23
  • Bombay Sapphire Distillery Tour and Cocktail Ticket: $26
  • Clapham Pub Crawl in London: $26
  • Guided Historic Pub Tour (London): $27
  • London Pub Crawl: $27
  • Balfour Winery, Wine Tasting Masterclass: $32
  • The Original Shoreditch Pub Crawl: $32
  • Small Group Covent Garden Historic Pub Tour in London: $32
  • Historic London Pub Tour: $32


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Singapore and London, we can see that London 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 London is in Europe, 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 London would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in London 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 London Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Singapore or London?

London has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Singapore. When comparing the sizes of Singapore and London, 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.