A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Singapore vs. Tamarindo for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Singapore or Tamarindo?

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

Should I visit Singapore or Tamarindo? 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 modern, global, and diverse 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Singapore travel costs.

Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a scenic, laid back, and chill town. Tamarindo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Tamarindo travel costs.

Singapore and Tamarindo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • 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
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Singapore or Tamarindo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Singapore. Although Singapore and Tamarindo 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, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Tamarindo is known for its nightlife and beaches. Singapore is popular for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets. It is also home to Merlion Park Waterfront. Tamarindo is popular for its surfing, wildlife, and leatherback sea turtles.

How is Singapore different from Tamarindo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Singapore
Tamarindo

Singapore is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Tamarindo is not a good town for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Singapore can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

While most people don't head to Tamarindo specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Aside from a few art galleries, there aren't many real museums around town.


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

Singapore
Tamarindo

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Singapore is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Tamarindo is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a combination of beach bars and restaurants in town that offer local cuisine and international options. Many places have a laid back vibe that fits with the town's atmosphere but you'll also find some more upscale options.

Is Singapore or Tamarindo Better for Nightlife?

Singapore
Tamarindo

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

Tamarindo has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The town has beach bars, dance clubs, and regular parties that attract tourists and locals alike. The evening has a vibrant atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding after a day of surfing or swimming.

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 Tamarindo Better for Music?

Singapore
Tamarindo

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Tamarindo is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone 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.

Tamarindo is not a live music destination.


Is Singapore or Tamarindo Better for Resorts?

Singapore
Tamarindo

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

Singapore offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Tamarindo is not a resort destination.

Is Singapore or Tamarindo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Singapore
Tamarindo

Singapore is not a good place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Tamarindo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Singapore isn't the best spot for snorkeling. The best place to snorkel in the area is Pulau Hantu.

Tamarindo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Singapore or Tamarindo Better for Beaches?

Singapore
Tamarindo

Tamarindo is notable for the beach. Also, Singapore is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

Tamarindo is considered a top beach destination. The beaches are popular with surfers but the currents can be strong so swimmers should use caution. The golden sand and beautiful setting make this a fun and chill beach destination. There are also plenty of water sports to choose from.

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 the Shopping Better in Singapore or Tamarindo?

Singapore
Tamarindo

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Singapore make it a world-class shopping destination. You'll find tons of malls along Orchard Road, but for a more eclectic shopping experience head to the Chinatown Street Market.

Tamarindo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find most of the souvenir shops along Diria Grand Boulevard. There are a few upscale clothing boutiques and jewelry shops as well.

Is Singapore or Tamarindo More Beautiful?

Singapore
Tamarindo

Singapore is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Singapore is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It is a beautiful city with many lights and colorful neighborhoods.

Tamarindo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The golden sand beaches offer a beautiful setting where you can relax and soak up a chill beachfront vibe.

Is Singapore or Tamarindo Better for Families?

Singapore
Tamarindo

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Singapore is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tamarindo. The golden beaches offer a great escape for families. The surf can be a bit strong, but the kids will love seeing the sea turtles or going horseback riding. There are also beginning surfing lessons available.


Is Singapore or Tamarindo Better for Couples?

Singapore
Tamarindo

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Singapore has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The city has stunning hotels, amazing restaurants, and plenty of fun activities that are perfect for couples.

Tamarindo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy romantic horseback rides along the beach, sunset cruises, and romantic meals. For the adventurous, there's surfing lessons and wildlife tours.

Is Singapore or Tamarindo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Singapore
Tamarindo

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Tamarindo. There are plenty of hostels in the area and many wonderful activities that let you experience everything that Costa Rica has to offer.

Is Singapore or Tamarindo Better for Students?

Singapore
Tamarindo

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Tamarindo is not popular with students.

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

Tamarindo is not popular with students.


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

Singapore
Tamarindo

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Singapore is top-notch. There is the MRT subway system as well as buses that travel all over the city.

Tamarindo has some public transit options. There are three public bus lines through town.

Is Singapore or Tamarindo a more walkable city?

Singapore
Tamarindo

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

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.

Tamarindo is a very walkable destination. The town is easy to walk around and explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Tamarindo or Singapore?

How long in Singapore or Tamarindo?

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

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

One day in Singapore or Tamarindo?

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 food and shopping around the town of Tamarindo. 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 Tamarindo?

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 shopping and nightlife around the laid back destination of Tamarindo. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Singapore or Tamarindo?

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 food around the scenic town of Tamarindo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Singapore or Tamarindo?

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.

Tamarindo 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 Luxury Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica.


Which place is cheaper, Tamarindo 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 $180, while the average daily cost in Tamarindo is $159. 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 Tamarindo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Singapore $102
    Tamarindo $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Singapore $204
    Tamarindo $110
Compare Hotels in Singapore and Tamarindo

Looking for a hotel in Singapore or Tamarindo? 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 Tamarindo


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: Tamarindo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Singapore $11
    Tamarindo $76
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:

  • Attractions Shared Transfers from Hotel: $12
  • Changi Airport (SIN) Private One-Way Transfer: $23
  • Singapore Changi SIN Airport Private Transfer to City Center: $24
  • Private Transfer: Singapore to Sentosa Island: $26
  • Singapore Airport Private Transfer: $27
  • Private Arrival Transfer From Singapore Airport or Port to Hotel: $28
  • Singapore Airport Private Transfer: $29
  • Changi Airport to/from Hotel Private Transfer: $29
  • Singapore Changi Airport: Singapore Private Airport Transfer: $30
  • Private Airport Transfer from/to Changi Airport(SIN): $30
  • Private Attraction Transfers for Singapore: $31
  • Hotel to Singapore Airport Private Transfer: $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tamarindo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Tamarindo:

  • Costa Rica Private Guanacaste Airport (LIR) Departure transfer: $5.00
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Mangroove Hotel: $16
  • Private Transfer Liberia Airport to Waldorf Astoria Hotel: $16
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Secrets Papagayo: $16
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Tamarindo: $20
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Riu Guanacaste: $20
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Airport to Hotel Luna Llena: $21
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport to Swiss Captain: $22
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Hotel Mar Rey Tamarindo: $24
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Westin Conchal: $24
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport Hotel Arco Iris Tamarindo: $24
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Luna Llena Hotel Tamarindo: $24

Is it cheaper to fly into Singapore or Tamarindo?

Prices for flights to both Tamarindo 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
    Tamarindo $62
Typical Food Prices in Singapore

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


  • Breakfast
    $4.77
  • Sugarcane Juice
    $1.57

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Singapore

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

  • 8-hr Combo: Food Tour, 40-Min Cruise & 2 Must-visit Light Shows: $44
  • Full day Tour: Food tour, 40-min Cruise & 2 top-visit Light shows: $45
  • Secrets of Singapore Kick Scooter Tour with Dinner: $53
  • Chinatown Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $54
  • Chinatown Food Tour with 6 Tastings (Self-Guided Hunt): $56
  • Singapore Food Tours - Chinatown Complex Hawker: $58
  • Authentic Singapore Street Food Tour: $60
  • Chinatown History and Food Tour in Singapore: $60
  • Plant-Based Food Tour with Local Guide: $61
  • Flavors of Singapore Food Tour at Chinatown: $64
  • Hawker Center Street Food Tour with Guide: $68
  • Guided Street Food Tour at Night: $74

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tamarindo

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

  • Online Class on Zoom: Cooking Costa Rica Homemade Food: $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Singapore $34
    Tamarindo $19

Tours and Activities in Singapore

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

  • Live Like a Local in Singapore (Half-day Tour): $1.60
  • Singapore City Walking Tour: $6.43
  • Science Center E-Ticket: $6.43
  • Singapore ArtScience Museum Admission E-Ticket: $6.50
  • Peranakan Museum Admission Ticket: $6.51
  • Ticket to Singapore Changi Chapel and Museum: $6.59
  • Singapore Street Art Hunting in Kampong Glam: Self-Guided Tour: $6.99
  • Singapore GP Audio Tour: The World’s First Night Race Route: $6.99
  • National Orchid Garden Admission Ticket: $7.73
  • Indian Heritage Centre Entrance Ticket: $7.75
  • Gardens by the Bay Bundle Entry Ticket: $7.75
  • Outdoor Audio Tour at Gardens by the Bay: $8.23

Tours and Activities in Tamarindo

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

  • Paintball Experience near Tamarindo: $32
  • Tamarind Estero Tour Boat and/or Kayak Tour: $38
  • Boat adventure with wildlife viewing in Tamarindo: $45
  • Tamarindo Estuary Tour: $45
  • Tamarindo Mangrove Tour: $46
  • Tamarindo Estuary Boat Tour: $47
  • Conchal Beach Horseback Riding - 1hr 30min Guided Tour: $50
  • Rain Forest Canopy Tour from Zipline, Hanging Bridge: $60
  • Tamarindo wildlife Estuary boat ride tour 1 hour and 45 minutes: $62
  • Prívate Beach tour at Guanacaste Province: $65
  • ATV Tour of Tamarindo: $65
  • Turtle Nesting Tour: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Singapore $29
    Tamarindo $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Singapore

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

  • Party Singapore Bespoke Pub Crawl: $30
  • 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 Tamarindo

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

  • Puro Vino - Tamarindo's Wine Tour Ride: $85


When comparing the travel costs between Singapore and Tamarindo, we can see that Singapore is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Singapore is in Asia and Tamarindo is in Central America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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