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

Should you visit Yogyakarta or Singapore?

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

Should I visit Yogyakarta or Singapore? 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.

Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is a cultural, historical, and colorful city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Yogyakarta travel costs.

Singapore

Singapore is a colorful, glitzy, and modern 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.

Yogyakarta and Singapore: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yogyakarta or Singapore?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Singapore than Yogyakarta, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Singapore is more popular for its food, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Yogyakarta is known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and historical sights. Yogyakarta is popular for its beautiful temples, divine food, and lively dance shows. 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 Yogyakarta different from Singapore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Singapore and Yogyakarta. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yogyakarta or Singapore?

Yogyakarta 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 Yogyakarta on the map. The city is known for it's cultural sights and temples. Kraton Yogyakarta is the palace where the Sultan lives. You should also visit Taman Sari Water Castle and Prambanan Temple. But for many visitors, Yogyakarta is seen as the gateway to the famed Borobudur Temple. This is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. It offers spectacular views and is best visited at sunrise.

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

Singapore is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Dining out in Yogyakarta is an experience not to be missed. It's filled with street food stalls and cheap eateries where you can fill up on local Indonesian classics for a cheap price. Gudeg (stewed jackfruit), Satay, and Bakmi Jawa (Javanese noodles) are just some of the dishes that you must try.

Is Yogyakarta or Singapore Better for Nightlife?

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

Yogyakarta has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With a large student population, you'll find many bars and live music venues around town. You'll also find night markets and plenty of theaters and live shows that you can enjoy.

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 Yogyakarta or Singapore Better for Music?

Singapore is renowned for its live music scene. However, Yogyakarta 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.

Yogyakarta is not a live music destination.

Is Yogyakarta or Singapore Better for Resorts?

Singapore is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Yogyakarta is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Singapore is a great choice. 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.

Yogyakarta is not a resort destination.

Is Yogyakarta or Singapore Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Singapore is not a good area for its diving and snorkeling. However, Yogyakarta 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.

Yogyakarta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yogyakarta or Singapore Better for Beaches?

Singapore is a popular place for the beach. However, Yogyakarta is not a beach destination.

Singapore is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Yogyakarta is not a beach destination.

Is Yogyakarta or Singapore Better for its Old Town?

Yogyakarta is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Singapore does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Yogyakarta. Kota Gede is the city's old town. It's filled with silver shops, religious sites, and traditional architecture. You'll also find a traditional market in the heart of the old town where you can buy coconut, dry fish, and tofu, or simply browse the unique items.

Singapore does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Yogyakarta or Singapore?

Shoppers can find a variety of first-rate stores in both Yogyakarta and Singapore.

Known for shopping, Yogyakarta draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with craftsmen and a local art scene that makes it a wonderful shopping destination. There are countless markets and shops where you can pick up local handicrafts that highlight the city's culture.

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.

Is Yogyakarta or Singapore More Beautiful?

Singapore is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Yogyakarta is not a destination known for its 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.

Yogyakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Yogyakarta or Singapore Better for Families?

Singapore is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Yogyakarta. It's often overlooked by families, but the temples, culture, art scene, and friendly people all make this a surprisingly fun destination for those traveling with kids. You'll also find a number of adventure activities in the area as well.

Is Yogyakarta or Singapore Better for Couples?

Singapore is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Yogyakarta is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with fun activities for couples such as a visit to Taman Pelangi at night, taking a walk along Jalan Malioboro, and taking in a traditional dance performance.

Is Yogyakarta or Singapore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Singapore is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Yogyakarta is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers who want to experience Indonesia's culture and friendly population will love a visit to this lively city. There are plenty of hostels and other travelers to meet, but there's also a uniquely Indonesian vibe to the city.

Is Yogyakarta or Singapore Better for Students?

Singapore is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Many students frequent Singapore. As such a diverse city, you'll find plenty of international students as well as expats to hang out with.

Yogyakarta is popular with students. There's a large number of students in the city, which makes this a fun place to study abroad.

Is Yogyakarta or Singapore 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, Yogyakarta is lacking in good options 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 Yogyakarta. There's a public bus system known as Trans Jogja, which is used by both tourists and locals. You can also hire motorbikes, becak, or Ojek.

Is Yogyakarta or Singapore a more walkable city?

Singapore is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Singapore. 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.

Yogyakarta is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the main sights are accessible on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Singapore or Yogyakarta?

How long in Yogyakarta or Singapore?

Both Yogyakarta and Singapore have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Singapore than in Yogyakarta. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Yogyakarta, and 2-7 days is enough time in Singapore.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Singapore than Yogyakarta 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 Yogyakarta or Singapore?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Yogyakarta. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

When visiting Singapore, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Yogyakarta or Singapore?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the youthful destination of Yogyakarta. 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.

When visiting Singapore, people usually allow for lots of time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Yogyakarta or Singapore?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Yogyakarta. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Singapore, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Yogyakarta or Singapore?

Yogyakarta 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.

Singapore is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Indonesia, The Best Eco Tours in Indonesia, The Best Budget Tours to Singapore, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Singapore.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Yogyakarta and Singapore, we can see that Singapore is more expensive. And not only is Yogyakarta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Yogyakarta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Yogyakarta 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 Yogyakarta.

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

Which is Bigger, Yogyakarta or Singapore?

Singapore has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Yogyakarta. When comparing the sizes of Yogyakarta and Singapore, 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.