A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Singapore vs. San Diego for Food, Music, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Singapore or San Diego?

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

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

San Diego

San Diego is a hip, dynamic, and energetic coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Singapore and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Singapore or San Diego?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Singapore than San Diego, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Singapore is more popular for its food, music, resorts, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while San Diego is known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. San Diego is more touristy than Singapore and is popular for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. Singapore is popular for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets. It is also home to Merlion Park Waterfront.

How is Singapore different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 San Diego specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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

Singapore is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Singapore, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the San Diego area. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Singapore or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Singapore is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

San Diego has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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 San Diego Better for Music?

Singapore is renowned for its live music scene. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its music scene.

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.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in San Diego. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Is Singapore or San Diego Better for Resorts?

Singapore is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

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.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Is Singapore or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Singapore is a mediocre city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

San Diego has a few good snorkeling spots. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

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

Is Singapore or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego 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 San Diego. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

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 San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Singapore is not a hiking destination.

San Diego is a popular spot for hiking. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Singapore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Singapore or San Diego?

Singapore is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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 San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Singapore or San Diego Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Singapore or San Diego.

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.

San Diego is one of the most popular family destinations. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Is Singapore or San Diego Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Singapore and San Diego 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, San Diego has plenty to offer. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Is Singapore or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Singapore is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Singapore or San Diego Better for Students?

Singapore and San Diego 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 San Diego. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

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

Singapore is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

Singapore has a great public transit system. There is the MRT subway system as well as buses that travel all over the city.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Singapore or San Diego a more walkable city?

Singapore is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Singapore?

How long in Singapore or San Diego?

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

Families should spend more time in Singapore than San Diego. 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 San Diego. 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 San Diego 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 San Diego?

People visit Singapore because there is so much to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal city of San Diego. 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 San Diego?

People visit Singapore because there is so much to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxed destination of San Diego. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Singapore or San Diego?

People visit Singapore because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the fun-filled coastal city of San Diego. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

A week in Singapore or San Diego?

Singapore is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Singapore, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

San Diego 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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Singapore or San Diego?

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