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

Should you visit Singapore or New York City?

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

Should I visit Singapore or New York 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 diverse, colorful, and glitzy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

New York City

New York City is a cosmopolitan, one-of-a-kind, and vibrant city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Singapore and New York City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Singapore or New York City?

You'll generally find more things to do in New York City than Singapore. New York City is bigger than Singapore, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. New York City is better known for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, and christmas markets, while Singapore is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. New York City is more touristy than Singapore and is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. Also, New York City is famous for The Statue of Liberty. Singapore is well known for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets.

How is Singapore different from New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

New York 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 New York City on the map. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

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 New York City Better for Theater?

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

The theater and performance venues in New York City draw crowds from around the world. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Singapore is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Singapore or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Singapore and New York City offer a number of amazing 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.

New York City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

Is Singapore or New York City Better for Nightlife?

New York 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.

New York City is a world class party destination. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

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 New York City Better for Music?

Both Singapore and New York City offer amazing 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.

New York City is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Is Singapore or New York City Better for Resorts?

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, New York City is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Singapore for its luxury resorts. 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.

New York City is not a resort destination.

Is Singapore or New York City Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Singapore is not a good area for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, New York 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.

New York City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Singapore or New York City Better for Beaches?

Singapore is a good destination for its beaches. However, New York City is not a beach destination.

Singapore offers a nice beach destination. 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.

New York City is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Singapore or New York City?

Both Singapore and New York City are amazing 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 New York City. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

Is Singapore or New York City Better for Christmas?

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

New York City is a fantastic destination at Christmas. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.

Singapore does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Singapore or New York City Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City is notable for its Christmas markets. However, Singapore does not offer Christmas markets.

Many people head to New York City to see its Christmas markets. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.

Singapore does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Singapore or New York City Better for Families?

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, New York City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Singapore is very family-friendly. 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.

New York City is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

Is Singapore or New York City Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Singapore and New York City make for a amazing 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, New York City has plenty to offer. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

Is Singapore or New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Singapore is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, New York City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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.

New York City is a great city to visit for backpackers. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

Is Singapore or New York City Better for Students?

Singapore and New York City are both amazing 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 New York City. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

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

Both Singapore and New York City offer amazing 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 New York City can take you anywhere. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

Is Singapore or New York City a more walkable city?

Singapore and New York City both are amazing 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 New York City. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

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

Should I spend more time in New York City or Singapore?

How long in Singapore or New York City?

Both Singapore and New York City have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Singapore, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Singapore than New York 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.

One day in Singapore or New York City?

Singapore is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find museums and theater around the city of New York 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 New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Singapore. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find theater and nightlife around the one-of-a-kind big city of New York 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 New York City?

Singapore is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the cosmopolitan city of New York 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 New York City?

Singapore is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

New York City is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in New York City, 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 Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Singapore or New York City?

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