A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Singapore vs. Noosa Heads for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Singapore or Noosa Heads?

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

Should I visit Singapore or Noosa Heads? 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. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of Singapore is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches. See Singapore travel costs.

Noosa Heads

Noosa Heads is a peaceful, scenic, and natural coastal town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, Noosa Heads attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Noosa Heads travel costs.

Singapore and Noosa Heads: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Singapore or Noosa Heads?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Singapore. Although Singapore and Noosa Heads are both popular with visitors, Singapore has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Singapore is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and big city activities, while Noosa Heads is known for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Singapore is popular for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets. It is also home to Merlion Park Waterfront. Noosa Heads is popular for its stunning beaches, natural beauty, and surfing culture.

How is Singapore different from Noosa Heads?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Singapore
Noosa Heads

Singapore is a great city for its historical sights. However, Noosa Heads is not known for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Singapore. 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.

Noosa Heads offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. As a holiday destination, it is all about the beaches and laid back natural beauty. You'll find little in the form of museums, but do make your way to Laguna Lookout to take in the view.


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

Singapore
Noosa Heads

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Noosa Heads is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Singapore have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Dining out in Noosa Heads is an experience not to be missed. The scenic setting means that there are peaceful restaurants that look out on the sea or river. Many restaurants use local ingredients from nearby farms. Farm-to-table is a popular concept here, and there are many sustainable seafood dishes that use locally caught fish.

Is Singapore or Noosa Heads Better for Nightlife?

Singapore
Noosa Heads

Evening events are good in both Singapore and Noosa Heads.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Noosa Heads. There are a number of pubs and bars that have opened around town. You'll find cocktail lounges, beer gardens, an plenty of outdoor activities to choose from.

Is Singapore or Noosa Heads Better for Music?

Singapore
Noosa Heads

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Noosa Heads is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Singapore. As a globalized city, you'll find almost any type of music here. Popular music venues include Timbre, Zouk, and the Crazy Elephant.

Noosa Heads is not a live music destination.


Is Singapore or Noosa Heads Better for Resorts?

Singapore
Noosa Heads

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Noosa Heads 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.

Noosa Heads is not a resort destination.

Is Singapore or Noosa Heads Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Singapore
Noosa Heads

Singapore is mediocre for its diving and snorkeling. However, Noosa Heads 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.

Noosa Heads is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Singapore or Noosa Heads Better for Beaches?

Singapore
Noosa Heads

Noosa Heads is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Singapore is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Noosa Heads. Visitors come for the laid back vibe and the spectacular beaches. For swimming, head to Noosa Main Beach. There's also surfing at the Noosa World Surfing Reserve and a peaceful and natural setting at Noosa National park.

Many people head to Singapore to enjoy the beach. You'll find most of the area's best beaches on Sentosa Island. There's a 2 kilometer long artificial beach that is split into Palawan Beach, Siloso Beach, and Tanjong Beach.


Is Singapore or Noosa Heads Better for Hiking?

Singapore
Noosa Heads

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

Noosa Heads is a popular spot for hiking. There are hiking trails that take in the coastal views or you can head inland and wander through wooded landscapes. Some of the best hiking trails are found at Noosa National Park.

Singapore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Singapore or Noosa Heads?

Singapore
Noosa Heads

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Noosa Heads is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Singapore draws large crowds to its stores. You'll find tons of malls along Orchard Road, but for a more eclectic shopping experience head to the Chinatown Street Market.

Many visitors go to Noosa Heads to go shopping. The main shopping street through town is Hastings Street. It's where you'll find beachside boutiques, impressive art galleries, as well as international brands.

Is Singapore or Noosa Heads More Beautiful?

Singapore
Noosa Heads

You'll find a similar quality of excellent scenery and beauty in both Singapore and Noosa Heads.

With stunning beauty, Singapore attracts visitors from all around. It is a beautiful city with many lights and colorful neighborhoods.

Noosa Heads is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's stunning natural beauty, breathtaking beaches, and nearby green spaces have made this a popular holiday destination.


Is Singapore or Noosa Heads Better for Families?

Singapore
Noosa Heads

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Noosa Heads is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town 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.

Noosa Heads is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are playgrounds and green space where you can picnic at the Noosa Villages. Kids will also enjoy taking ferry rides and exploring Noosa National Park. Also nearby is the impressive K'Gari (Fraser Island).

Is Singapore or Noosa Heads Better for Couples?

Singapore
Noosa Heads

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Noosa Heads is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for couples.

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.

Noosa Heads is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's filled with romantic beaches and fun outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking. There are plenty of places to hike and explore, as well as sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. You can also unwind with a spa day or sip wine by the sea.

Is Singapore or Noosa Heads Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Singapore
Noosa Heads

Singapore is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Noosa Heads is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Singapore is extremely popular 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.

Noosa Heads is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The laid back atmosphere makes this a long running stop for backpackers to Australia. There are a number of hostels to choose from and many ways to explore nature.


Is Singapore or Noosa Heads Better for Students?

Singapore
Noosa Heads

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Noosa Heads is not popular with students.

Singapore is a very popular city for students. As such a diverse city, you'll find plenty of international students as well as expats to hang out with.

Noosa Heads is not popular with students.

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

Singapore
Noosa Heads

Singapore is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Noosa Heads is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its public transit.

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.

Noosa Heads has a few public transit options. There's a ferry that travels along the river. There are also buses that travel to local destinations.

Is Singapore or Noosa Heads a more walkable city?

Singapore
Noosa Heads

Singapore is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Noosa Heads is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its ease of walking around.

Singapore is a very easy city to get around 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.

Noosa Heads is a very walkable destination. It's fun to explore the town and surrounding areas on foot. There are walking and bike paths throughout.


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

Should I spend more time in Noosa Heads or Singapore?

How long in Singapore or Noosa Heads?

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

Families should spend more time in Singapore than Noosa Heads. 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 Noosa Heads. 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 Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads? Ideal Length of Stay
    Singapore 2-7 
    Noosa Heads 2-4

One day in Singapore or Noosa Heads?

Singapore is a modern 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.

Even though Noosa Heads is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Singapore or Noosa Heads?

Singapore is a colorful 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.

Noosa Heads is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Singapore or Noosa Heads?

Singapore is a glitzy 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.

Noosa Heads is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Singapore or Noosa Heads?

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.

Noosa Heads is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Singapore, The Best Tours for Seniors to Singapore, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Noosa Heads or Singapore?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Singapore is $179, while the average daily cost in Noosa Heads is $135. 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 Noosa Heads in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Singapore $101
    Noosa Heads $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Singapore $202
    Noosa Heads $116
Compare Hotels in Singapore and Noosa Heads

Looking for a hotel in Singapore or Noosa Heads? 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 Noosa Heads


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: Noosa Heads Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Singapore $11
    Noosa Heads $17
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Singapore

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


  • Taxi to Airport
    $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Singapore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Singapore:

  • Small Group Full Day Singapore City Tour with Roundtrip Transfers: $278
  • Singapore to Tioman island (Mersing jetty) - Private Transfer: $270
  • Transfer to Zoo/Night Safari/Bird Paradise/Rainforest Asia: $233
  • City Tour, Flyer or Marina deck, with Guide Roundtrip Transfer: $228
  • 2 Day Mandai Wildlife Reserve Singapore with Roundtrip Transfer : $225
  • Harbourfront Cruise Center, Singapore to Kuala Lumpur Hotel (Door to Door) Transfer: $215
  • Singapore Hotels to Kuala Lumpur Hotels one way Private Transfer: $215
  • Singapore Zoo & Night Safari Day ( Tickets & Transfer ) : $201
  • Singapore City Tour with Roundtrip Transfer: $191
  • Singapore Zoo & River Wonder Day Ticket & Transfer : $189
  • Singapore Bird Paradise & Zoo Full Day (Ticket & Transfer ) : $181
  • Singapore River & Night Safari-COMBO (Shared Transfer): $179

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Noosa Heads

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

  • Eumundi Markets Bus Transfer: Mooloolaba Sunshine Coast & Noosa : $32
  • Australia Zoo Transfer from Noosa and Sunshine Coast: $91
  • Private Morning Transfer From Noosa to Rainbow Beach: $91
  • Private Transfers from Sunshine Coast Airport to Noosa (2pax): $97
  • Private Transfer to or from Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY): $108
  • Private Transfer from Sunshine Coast Airport to Hotels 11 pax: $239
  • Private Transfer from Sunshine Coast Airport to Hotels 13 pax: $262

Is it cheaper to fly into Singapore or Noosa Heads?

Prices for flights to both Noosa Heads 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 $50
    Noosa Heads $58
Typical Food Prices in Singapore

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


  • Breakfast
    $4.75
  • Sugarcane Juice
    $1.56

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: $53
  • Chinatown Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $54
  • Secrets of Singapore Kick Scooter Tour with Dinner: $55
  • Singapore Food Tours - Chinatown Complex Hawker: $58
  • Authentic Singapore Street Food Tour: $60
  • Plant-Based Food Tour with Local Guide: $61
  • Hawker Center Street Food Tour with Guide: $68
  • Guided Street Food Tour at Night: $74
  • Local Hawker Food Tour with Tastings: $74
  • Hawker Culture Food Tour and Sightseeing: $75
  • Eat Snap Katong Walking Food Tour: $76
  • Private Korean Cooking Class in Balmoral Road: $78

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Noosa Heads

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

  • Cooking Classes on Witta Maleny Sunshine Coast: $121

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Singapore $34
    Noosa Heads $40

Tours and Activities in Singapore

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

  • Marina Bay Sands SkyPark for Observation Deck Ticket singapore: $40
  • Singapore River Cruise Admission Ticket: $30
  • Singapore River Cruise Tour Ticket Pass: $29
  • #17or19 Hrs Kuala Lumpur Van Tour from Singapore w' Tour Guide: $159
  • 1-way Singapore hotel pickup (Batam private tour guests only): $120
  • 2-4 days in Singapore Guided Tour Pass: $131
  • 3 Hour Private Sunset Tour in Singapore: $255
  • 3 Hour Singaporean Spiritual Temple Walking Tour Experience : $75
  • 3h Chinatown, Little India,Arab Street SPANISH Walking Tour: $81
  • 3h Historical Civic District & Marina Bay Walking Tour: $68
  • 3hrs Singapore Walking Tour: Chinatown-Kampong Glam: $62
  • 4 Hours Private Experience by Grab: $111

Typical Entertainment Prices in Noosa Heads

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


  • Surf Lesson
    $43
  • Sea Kayak Tour (for 2)
    $85
  • Sunset Cruise (for 2)
    $13

Tours and Activities in Noosa Heads

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

  • Noosa Queen Sunset Cruise River: $22
  • The Original 1-Hour Mooloolaba Canal Cruise: $24
  • 1 Hour Tour Mooloolaba Sunset Cruise: $24
  • SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium Entrance Ticket: $26
  • Maleny Botanic Gardens Bird Aviary Experience Ticket: $32
  • Sunset Cruise Mooloolaba: $33
  • Aquaduck Sunshine Coast - 1hr Mooloolaba Amphibious Tour: $34
  • Stillwater Luxury Noosa Sunset Cruise : $37
  • Noosa Stand Up Paddle & Mangrove Tunnel Tour (Self Guided): $39
  • Hidden Waterways & Wildlife Kayak Tour: $40
  • Seafood Lunch Cruise: $46
  • Sunshine Coast Adventure Park TreeTop Challenge: $47

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Singapore $28
    Noosa Heads $10

Sample the Local Flavors in Singapore

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

  • Little India Pub Crawl : $24
  • Party Singapore Bespoke Pub Crawl: $30
  • Party Singapore Bespoke Pub Crawl: $31
  • Singapore Pub Crawl - Party like a Local: $39
  • Brass Lion Gin Distillery Tour Ticket: $41
  • LeVeL33 Rooftop Brewery Tour & Craft Beer Tasting: $77
  • LeVeL33 Craft-Brewery Restaurant & Lounge Package: $192

Sample the Local Flavors in Noosa Heads

Also in Noosa Heads, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Sunshine Coast Bar Crawl Sippin on Sunshine: $15
  • Sunshine Coast Brewery Tour with Lunch: $165
  • Hinterland Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour - with 2 course lunch included: $188


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Singapore and Noosa Heads, we can see that Singapore is more expensive. And not only is Noosa Heads much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Singapore is in Asia and Noosa Heads is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Noosa Heads would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Noosa Heads and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Singapore would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Singapore than you might in Noosa Heads.

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


Which is Bigger, Singapore or Noosa Heads?

Singapore has a larger population, and is about 350 times larger than the population of Noosa Heads. When comparing the sizes of Singapore and Noosa Heads, 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.