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

Should you visit Singapore or Mexico City?

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

Should I visit Singapore or Mexico City? 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. 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.

Mexico City

Mexico City is a diverse, vibrant, and dynamic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Singapore and Mexico City: 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
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Singapore or Mexico City?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Singapore than Mexico City. While Mexico City is larger than Singapore, Singapore has more sights and attractions for tourists. Singapore is very popular for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Mexico City attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights. Singapore is more touristy than Mexico City and is popular for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets. It is also well known for Merlion Park Waterfront. Mexico City is famous for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture.

How is Singapore different from Mexico City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Singapore
Mexico City

Mexico City 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 Mexico City on the map. The city is filled with historic buildings, fascinating museums, and interesting landmarks. At the heart of the city is Zócalo, where the country's constitution was signed. Nearby you'll find the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor. Other interesting museums in the city include the National Museum of Anthropology, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the National History Museum.

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 the Food Better in Singapore or Mexico City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Singapore
Mexico City

Both Singapore and Mexico City offer a number of first-rate restaurants to choose from.

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.

Mexico City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city food scene is as diverse as the population itself. There are countless ways to experience the amazing street food, but there are also world class chefs working in award winning restaurants. Make sure you try the chilaquiles, tacos al pastor, and chiles en nogada.

Is Singapore or Mexico City Better for Nightlife?

Singapore
Mexico City

Mexico City 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.

Mexico City is a world class party destination. It's a huge city, so of course there's no shortage of diverse nightlife activities. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for nightlife include the downtown, La Condesa, and Colonia Juárez. For upscale clubs head to Polanco and for trendy and eclectic venues check out Roma.

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 Mexico City Better for Music?

Singapore
Mexico City

Singapore is very popular for its music scene. However, Mexico City is not a live music destination.

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

Mexico City is not a live music destination.


Is Singapore or Mexico City Better for Resorts?

Singapore
Mexico City

Singapore is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Mexico City 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.

Mexico City is not a resort destination.

Is Singapore or Mexico City Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Singapore
Mexico City

Singapore is not a good area for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Mexico City 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.

Mexico City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Singapore or Mexico City Better for Beaches?

Singapore
Mexico City

Singapore is a popular place for the beach. However, Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Singapore is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Mexico City is not a beach destination.


Is Singapore or Mexico City Better for its Old Town?

Singapore
Mexico City

Mexico City is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Singapore does not have a historic old town.

Mexico City offers a nice historic old town area. Centro Historico spreads out from Zócalo Plaza, and has many buildings that date back as far as the Aztec period. Many tourists gather here to explore the history and wander down the pedestrian-only Calle Madero.

Singapore does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Singapore or Mexico City?

Singapore
Mexico City

Both Singapore and Mexico City are first-rate 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 Mexico City. The city has everything from open-air bazaars (tianguis) to modern shopping malls. There are international brands as well as local art galleries, handicrafts, and retail outlets.

Is Singapore or Mexico City Better for Families?

Singapore
Mexico City

Singapore is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Mexico City is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a huge city, so there are enough diverse activities to keep everyone entertained. There's even a Six Flags. Popular museums for kids include Papalote Museo del Niño and Museo de Geología. There's also the Acuario Inbursa, and make sure you check out a Lucha Libre show.


Is Singapore or Mexico City Better for Couples?

Singapore
Mexico City

Singapore is very popular for couples. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Mexico City is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with parks where you can enjoy a picnic, museums that are fascinating to walk through, and cultural activities that are one-of-a-kind. You can ride on a gondola in Xochimilco or spend the day exploring the amazing food scene.

Is Singapore or Mexico City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Singapore
Mexico City

Singapore is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Singapore, as it is a very popular city for 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Mexico City. It's a big city with a wonderful atmosphere and many hostels. Backpackers who want to experience the culture, food, and personality of Mexico will love a visit here.

Is Singapore or Mexico City Better for Students?

Singapore
Mexico City

Singapore is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

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

Mexico City is very popular with students. International students love the art, architecture, food, and culture that this colorful city has to offer.


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

Singapore
Mexico City

Singapore is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Singapore has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There is the MRT subway system as well as buses that travel all over the city.

Public transit in Mexico City is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has a complex and comprehensive public transit system that includes a metro, metrobus, and local buses.

Is Singapore or Mexico City a more walkable city?

Singapore
Mexico City

Singapore is very popular for its ease of walking around. However, Mexico City is lacking in options for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Singapore. 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.

Mexico City is generally not very walkable. While you can walk within many neighborhoods, such as the historic city center, it's impossible to walk between neighborhoods and in many parts of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Mexico City or Singapore?

How long in Singapore or Mexico City?

In either Singapore or Mexico City, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Singapore than Mexico City 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 Mexico City.

Families should spend more time in Singapore than Mexico City. 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 Mexico City. 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 Mexico City 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 Mexico City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Singapore 2-7 
    Mexico City 3-5

One day in Singapore or Mexico City?

Singapore is a glitzy city where you can fill many days. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Mexico City. 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 Mexico City?

Singapore is a diverse big city where you can fill many days. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural big city of Mexico City. 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 Mexico City?

Singapore is a diverse city where you can fill many days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find nightlife and food around the cultural city of Mexico City. 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 Mexico City?

Singapore is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Mexico City is a popular choice for travelers. 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 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.


Which place is cheaper, Mexico City 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 Mexico City is $212. 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 Mexico City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Singapore $98
    Mexico City $41
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Singapore $196
    Mexico City $82
Compare Hotels in Singapore and Mexico City

Looking for a hotel in Singapore or Mexico City? 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 Mexico City


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: Mexico City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Singapore $10
    Mexico City $13
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:

  • Wondrous Wildlife @ Singapore Zoo + Roundtrip Transfers: $91
  • Wondrous Wildlife @ River Wonders + Roundtrip Transfers: $84
  • Wildlife River Wonders and Night Safari(Combo)+Roundtrip Transfer: $151
  • Universal Studios Singapore Admission Ticket with Transfer: $159
  • Try find better than us! Airport Transfer service in Singapore HTL-APT (SIN): $40
  • Try find better than us! Airport Transfer service in Singapore APT-HTL (SIN): $40
  • Starry Night Singapore Tour + Roundtrip Transfers: $69
  • Universal Studios 1-Day Pass with 1-Way Transfer: $96
  • Sentosa Island Attractions with Hotel Transfer: $144
  • Night Safari with Tram Ride and Hotel Transfer: $167
  • Night Safari Ticket, Tram Ride, & Return Transfer: $104
  • Marina Bay Sands & Gardens By The Bay & Transfer: $111

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mexico City

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


  • Metro
    $1.19
  • Uber Ride
    $4.18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mexico City

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

  • Transfer Mexico city Airport - Mexico city Downtown hotels: $18
  • Private One way Transfer from Mexico Airport to Mexico City: $21
  • Aguascalientes Airport (AGU) to Aguascalientes - Arrival Transfer: $24
  • Transfer to and from Mexico City Airport: $30
  • Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Mexico City Airport: $34
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Mexico APT-HTL (MEX) : $36
  • One-way transfer from/to Mexico City Airport to hotel : $36
  • Private Transfer From Mexico City Airport to Downtown: $37
  • Mexico Airport (MEX) Cuernavaca Thermal Resorts Arrival Transfer: $39
  • Private Transfer: Benito Juarez Airport (MEX) to Mexico City: $40
  • Ixtapan de La Sal to Mexico Airport (MEX)-Departure Transfer: $44
  • Private Transfer from AICM to Mexico City Hotels: $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Singapore or Mexico City?

Prices for flights to both Mexico City 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
    Mexico City $27
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 Mexico City

For Mexico City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two
    $13
  • Coffee and Snacks
    $4.65
  • Dinner for 2
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mexico City

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

  • Traveling Spoon Mexican Tacos and Tortillas Private Online Cooking Class: $40
  • Virtual Mexican Cooking Class (private and personalized): $50
  • Tortilla Crawl: Food Tour in Mexico City: $55
  • Private Half-Day Traditional Markets Street Food Tour in Mexico City: $57
  • La Roma Authentic Downtown Food Tour: Tacos and Local Flavors: $75
  • San Angel Mexican Food Tour : $80
  • Flamenco Tablao Live Show & dinner: $83
  • Rural Cooking Class at the Mountains: $85
  • Small Group Multi Variety Mole Cooking Class in La Condesa: $86
  • Small Group Multi-Variety Tamal Cooking Class in La Condesa: $86
  • Private Mexican Cooking Lesson in a Coyoacan Apartment: $86
  • Mexico City Origins: Archeology, History, Art & Food Tour: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Singapore $32
    Mexico City $15

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

Tours and Activities in Mexico City

For Mexico City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Frida Kahlo Tour of Coyoacán: $1.50
  • Franz Mayer Museum Admission Ticket: $5.96
  • Double Decker Bus Night Tour: $5.96
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour - Mexico for Beginners: $6.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour-Moctezuma and the Zocalo:The Aztec Empire : $6.99
  • Night Bus Tour Knowing Mexico City: $7.36
  • La Roma's Famous Sights and Local Lore: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Memory and Tolerance Museum Entry Ticket: $8.35
  • Mexico City (Historic Centre) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.91
  • Mexico City (Coyoacan) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.91
  • Mexico City (Historic Centre) Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $9.10
  • Mexico City (Coyoacan) Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $9.10

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Singapore $27
    Mexico City $20

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 Mexico City

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

  • CDMX Pub Crawl: Mexico City Bar Crawl: $25
  • Mexico City Bar Crawl: $39
  • Best Bar Crawl at Downtown: $49
  • Private Mexican Wine Tasting & Food Tasting: $78
  • 2 Hours Private Mexican Wine Tasting in Polanco: $155
  • Third Largest Monolith in the World:Bernal with wine tasting: $235
  • Cavas Freixenet Wine Tour from Mexico City: $255


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


Which is Bigger, Singapore or Mexico City?

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