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

Should you visit Singapore or Milan?

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

Should I visit Singapore or Milan? 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. 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.

Milan

Milan is a chic, cultural, and trendy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Singapore and Milan: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Singapore or Milan?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Milan than Singapore. While Singapore is larger than Milan, Milan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Milan is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Singapore attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Singapore is more touristy than Milan and is popular for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets. Milan is famous for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. It is also well known for Piazza del Duomo.

How is Singapore different from Milan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Singapore
Milan

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

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 Milan specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.


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

Singapore
Milan

Both Singapore and Milan offer a number of terrific 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.

Milan has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

Is Singapore or Milan Better for Nightlife?

Singapore
Milan

Milan 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.

Milan is a world class party destination. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

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 Milan Better for Music?

Singapore
Milan

Both Singapore and Milan offer terrific 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.

Milan is known as a music capital around the world. The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.


Is Singapore or Milan Better for Resorts?

Singapore
Milan

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Milan is not a resort destination.

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.

Milan is not a resort destination.

Is Singapore or Milan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Singapore
Milan

Singapore is mediocre for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Milan 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.

Milan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Singapore or Milan Better for Beaches?

Singapore
Milan

Singapore is a city with good options for the beach. However, Milan is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Singapore. 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.

Milan is not a beach destination.


Is Singapore or Milan Better for its Old Town?

Singapore
Milan

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

The rich history of Milan can be explored in its historical center. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

Singapore does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Singapore or Milan?

Singapore
Milan

Both Singapore and Milan are terrific 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 Milan. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

Is Singapore or Milan Better for Families?

Singapore
Milan

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-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.

Milan is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.


Is Singapore or Milan Better for Couples?

Singapore
Milan

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Milan is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

Is Singapore or Milan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Singapore
Milan

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Milan. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

Is Singapore or Milan Better for Students?

Singapore
Milan

Singapore and Milan are both terrific 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 Milan. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.


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

Singapore
Milan

Both Singapore and Milan offer terrific 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 Milan can take you anywhere. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

Is Singapore or Milan a more walkable city?

Singapore
Milan

Singapore and Milan both are terrific 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 Milan. In particular, the city center is walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Milan or Singapore?

How long in Singapore or Milan?

In either Singapore or Milan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Singapore than Milan because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Singapore, and 1-5 days is enough time in Milan.

Families should spend more time in Singapore than Milan. 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 Milan. 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 Milan 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 Milan? Ideal Length of Stay
    Singapore 2-7 
    Milan 1-5

One day in Singapore or Milan?

Each neighborhood in Singapore has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Milan. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Milan has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Singapore or Milan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Singapore. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find live music and food around the trendy big city of Milan. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Milan?

Singapore is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Singapore has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the trendy city of Milan. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Singapore or Milan?

Each neighborhood in Singapore has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Singapore, The Best Budget Tours to Singapore, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Milan 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 Milan is $178. 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 Milan in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Singapore $98
    Milan $103
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Singapore $196
    Milan $206
Compare Hotels in Singapore and Milan

Looking for a hotel in Singapore or Milan? 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 Milan


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: Milan Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Singapore $10
    Milan $38
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: $273
  • Private Transfer from Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) to Legoland (Malaysia): $254
  • Free Wifi Rental | Two - Way Airport Transfer Minivan (4pax): $184
  • Universal Studios Singapore Admission Ticket with Transfer: $175
  • Night Safari with Tram Ride and Hotel Transfer: $168
  • Singapore Changi Airport (SIN): Transfer to Downtown hotels: $164
  • Singapore to Kuala Lumpur One Way Transfer: $153
  • Private Transfer: SIN Airport to Singapore in Luxury Car: $152
  • ExhilaratingSentosa MorningTour(Guided Shared Roundtrip Transfer): $150
  • Changi International Airport Private MPV Transfer: $149
  • Marina Bay Sands & Gardens By The Bay & Transfer: $143
  • Singapore to Johor Bahru - Private Transfer: $140

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Milan

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


  • Train to Airport
    $7.50
  • Malpensa Airport Train (for Two)
    $24
  • Taxi From Airport
    $96
  • Public Transit Day Pass
    $4.82
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $7.64

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Milan

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

  • Linate Airport to/from Milan Central Station Transfer: $5.38
  • Bergamo Airport Transfer: $11
  • Bus Transfer from/to Bergamo Airport: $11
  • Direct Transfer between Malpensa Airport and Center: $11
  • Transfer Milan city center - Bergamo Airport: $12
  • Transfer from Malpensa Airport to Milan city center: $12
  • Transfer Milan city center - Malpensa airport: $12
  • Serravalle Designer Outlet Roundtrip Bus Transfer: $27
  • Linate Airport Milan (LIN) to Milan - Arrival Private Transfer: $29
  • Luxury Private Day Transfer from Milan to Linate Airport: $38
  • Private Luxury day Transfer from Linate Airport to Milan: $38
  • Milan to Bergamo Airport (BGY) - Departure Private Transfer : $46

Is it cheaper to fly into Singapore or Milan?

Prices for flights to both Milan 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
    Milan $42
Typical Food Prices in Singapore

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


  • Breakfast
    $4.52
  • Sugarcane Juice
    $1.48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Singapore

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

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

Typical Food Prices in Milan

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


  • Snack at Train Station
    $9.22
  • Restaurant Pizza
    $7.07
  • Casual Cafe Lunch (for Two)
    $29
  • Three Course Dinner (for Two)
    $69
  • Cappuccino
    $1.75

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Milan

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

  • PYT Milano Dinner Show with Live Music and DJ Set: $22
  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $29
  • Milan Gourmet Food Tour and Sightseeing with Local Guide: $38
  • Gourmet Street Food Tour with Sightseeing and Tasting: $45
  • Eating Milan Street Food Tour with Guided Tasting and Sightseeing: $46
  • Tasty Milan Street Food Tour with Local Guide: $46
  • Delicious Milan Street Food Tour Tasting and Sightseeing with Local Guide: $46
  • Devour Milan Street Food Tour and Sightseeing: $46
  • NO DIET CLUB - Best Food Tour in Milan !: $59
  • 2-Hour Cooking Course of Delicious Desserts for Families in Milan: $65
  • Mamma Mia - Make Your own Italian Pizza: $69
  • Local Market and Cooking Class with an Italian Chef: $70

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

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: $122
  • *17 or 19 Hrs Kuala Lumpur Van Tour from Singapore w' Tour Guide: $185
  • *19 Hrs Kuala Lumpur&Melaka Van Tour from Singapore w' Tour Guide: $182
  • 1 Hour Admission Ticket for Singapore Cable Car: $26
  • 1-way Singapore hotel pickup (Batam private tour guests only): $120
  • 3 Ethnic Neighborhoods & UNESCO Street Food / Cultural Experience: $149
  • 3 Hour Private Sunset Tour in Singapore: $241
  • 3-Hour Marina Bay Best Spots Walking Tour: $68
  • 5-Hour Peranakan Heritage Tour with Peranakan Tile Painting : $124
  • 6-Hours Singapore Tour in Private Car or Minibus with Driver: $233
  • ArtScience Museum Admission Ticket: $23
  • Asian Civilisations Museum Admission Ticket: $12

Typical Entertainment Prices in Milan

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


  • Stairs to Duomo Rooftop
    $7.50

Tours and Activities in Milan

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.23
  • The City Storytelling Experience: Art, History and Myths Come Together: $3.28
  • Milano Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour Exploring Age-Old Plants: $4.63
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour Exploring the Famous Five Days: $4.63
  • Unique Self-Guided Audio Tour on Alessandro Manzoni: $4.63
  • Giuseppe Verdi in Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.63
  • From Italy eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.84
  • 3 Hours Private Walking Tour in Milan: $5.48
  • Stories of the Fashion Capital: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Milan: $5.49
  • The Best of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.45

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Singapore $27
    Milan $26

Sample the Local Flavors in Singapore

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

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

Typical Alcohol Prices in Milan

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Milan:


  • Cocktail at a Bar
    $9.00
  • Beer
    $3.59

Sample the Local Flavors in Milan

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

  • Wine Tasting Experience in the City Centre: $43
  • Wine Tasting Experience in Milan city centre: $44
  • Milan Wine Tasting Experience: $53
  • Italian Wine Tasting in Milan: $54
  • Milan Wine Tasting Aperitivo: $56
  • Milan Wine Tasting with Italian Sommelier: $86
  • Private Food and Wine Tasting Experience in the Center of Milan: $87
  • Wine Tasting with an Italian Sommelier: $94
  • Best of Guided Tour with Duomo, Food & Wine Tasting: $160
  • Food and Wine Tasting enjoying the New Milan: $165
  • Brescia & Franciacorta Guided Tour with Wine Tasting: $182
  • Brescia and Franciacorta winery area. Cultural and wine tasting small group tour: $185


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


Which is Bigger, Singapore or Milan?

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