is travel in singapore expensive

The Cost of Travel in Singapore: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

You’ve probably heard that Singapore is expensive.

Well, this is one example where you should pay attention to the rumours: Singapore is expensive.

But not only that, Singapore is particularly expensive post-pandemic.

I’ve spent the past 13 years exploring this planet as a travel writer so have passed through Singapore on countless occasions, thanks to its position as a global travel hub. I love this country, so whenever I spot a flight that calls for a Singaporean layover, I take full advantage and give myself two or three days to explore.

I’ve therefore visited Singapore on all manner of budgets and styles over the years, whether I was a stingy backpacker who was panicking over every spent cent, showing my parents around the country on their post-retirement vacation, adventuring around as a solo traveller on a luxury budget, or travelling with my partner on a romantic Valentine’s Day getaway.

Most recently, I spent three days in Singapore in mid-2024 and was surprised by how rapidly the prices have increased.

But of course, they’ve increased everywhere. 2024 has been my most expensive year of travel to date and it feels like the days of basic, budget guesthouses are starting to evaporate.

That’s not to say that deals can’t be found. I still managed to find plenty of well-priced accommodation, experiences, and meals while I was in town, and I’m looking forward to sharing them with you today.

I’ve been recording every single cent I spend in the countries I visit from day one of my travels, because I want to be able to give a realistic and accurate look at how much you can expect to spend in each country you visit.

Here, then, is how much it costs to travel to Singapore, with all prices updated after my 2024 trip:

How to Save Money on the Cost of Accommodation in Singapore

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer. And when you see the prices of accommodation in Singapore, you might just be able to find said time!

Couchsurfing  exists in Singapore and allows you to stay with a local for free, sleeping on their sofa and enjoying a local’s insight into life in their country. It’s not the most comfortable of living situations, but if your budget is tight and you don’t mind roughing it, it’s worth sending out a few requests to hosts to see if anything comes of it. You can search for potential hosts on  the Couchsurfing site .

Housesitting  is another option. This is where you take care of somebody’s house for free while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees as you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you do have that freedom, though, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while.  Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting — they usually have several dozen housesits available for Singapore at any one time, so it’s well-worth having a look to see if any coincide with your travel dates.

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation and just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available for you.

The Cost of Accommodation in Singapore

The first thing I want to note is that Singapore is home to some truly terrible accommodation. Of the 400 properties that are listed on Booking.com, a mere 15 of them are rated higher than 9/10. I don’t think I’ve come across another major city for which this is the case!

Part of this is simply due to the high prices: you never really feel like you’re getting amazing value for money when it comes to accommodation in Singapore. That doesn’t mean that the properties are terrible, however, just that you’ll feel like you’re paying a lot for them!

In general, you can expect to spend around the following per night:

• $20-35 a night for dorm bed
• $35-60 a night for a capsule hotel bed
• $80-150 for a budget hotel
• $150-250 for a mid-range hotel
• $250+ for a luxury hotel.

Here’s where I’ve stayed when visiting Singapore on a whole range of budgets:

The cheapest hostel in Singapore: 7 Wonders Boutique ( $22 per night (S$30/£18/€21) for a capsule bed in a dorm)

This hostel is close to the subway, has fast wifi, and a basic free breakfast. It’s also located in Little India, which is my favourite Singapore neighbourhood! If you’re backpacking around Southeast Asia and travelling on a tight budget, this is a great option. Each capsule is fitted with a computer tray, power point, reading light, clothes rack with hanger, a locker, and a curtain for privacy. This is pretty much the cheapest accommodation in the entire city.

The best hostel in Singapore: Dream Lodge ( $55 a night (S$75/£45/€52) for a capsule bed in a dorm)

When it comes to budget accommodation in Singapore, this country loves a capsule hotel. And to be fair, I tend to prefer them, too. After all, they give you a little more privacy than a standard dorm room and for a lower price than a hotel. Dream Lodge is the best-rated hostel in Singapore and you really do get great value for money here. You’re in a good location, with friendly staff, a basic breakfast, comfortable beds, soundproofing, clean bathrooms, lockers, and all of that good stuff. There’s nothing to complain about here.

The best budget hotel in Singapore: Lyf Farrer Park Hotel ( $140 a night (S$183/£108/€127) for a double room)

This is my new favourite Singapore accommodation! Lyf Farrer Park was such a cool spot and packed full of amenities. Despite it being priced higher than I’d normally consider a budget hotel, the fact that you had access to a gym, rooftop garden with BBQ, and co-working space was super cool! It was in a great location, one minute away from a metro station, and felt very safe, even at night as a solo woman. The staff were great, too! Overall, I think this is probably going to be my go-to spot in Singapore in the future.

The best mid-range hotel in Singapore: 30 Bencoolen ( $164 a night (S$224/£135/€155) for a double room)

30 Bencoolen is a little bit of a step up from Lyf Farrer Park, simply because you have access to a rooftop swimming pool! This is where I chose to stay when my parents were visiting Singapore for the first time, so I had particularly high standards for the accommodation. The staff were warm and welcoming, there was a free breakfast if you join the hotel loyalty program (which is free), and the rooms were calm and quiet. And the rooftop swimming pool! There was perhaps no better feeling than returning back after a day of sweaty sightseeing and taking a swim while overlooking the city. Finally, the location was great, within walking distance of all of the main attractions and close to the metro for everywhere else. All in all, I’m really glad I stayed here and would recommend it if you’re looking for a pool in your accommodation.

The best luxury hotel in Singapore: Marina Bay Sands ($500 a night (S$680/£410/€480 for a double room)

If you want all the bragging rights in Singapore then there’s perhaps no better place to stay. The Marina Bay Sands is Singapore; you can’t think of the city without picturing its famous design. Not only are the rooms luxurious and modern, with the best views of Singapore, but you also get access to what is one of the coolest infinity pools in the world. Only hotel guests can access the pool that overlooks the city and trust me when I say: this is a bucket list experience! Obviously, this is quite a splurge, but if your budget does stretch that far, I think it’ll definitely be worth it.

The Cost of Transportation in Singapore

Singapore is one of the smallest countries in the world, so getting around is never going to be an enormous expense here. In fact, despite Singapore’s reputation for being expensive, public transport is very affordable here.

Let’s take a look at all the options.

The quickest, easiest, and most comfortable way to travel around this country is via their metro system, otherwise known as the MRT. The first decision you’ll need to make is whether or not to buy a Singapore Tourist Pass, which gives you unlimited use of public transport while you’re in the country. The pass is priced at:

• 1 day: S$17 ($13/£10/€12)
• 2 days: S$24 ($18/£14/€17)
• 3 days: S$29 ($22/£17/€20)

I ran a little experiment during my most recent two-day layover, in order to see whether the Singapore Tourist Pass was worth it or not. During my time in the country, I made a concerted effort to hit up as many tourist activities as I could, from Gardens By the Bay to the Botanic Gardens, to the National Museum, to Little India… I covered roughly 30 different attractions.

I didn’t buy a Singapore Tourist Pass and instead tallied up how much I spent while using the metro in the city. The final amount came to S$27.72 , or $21.18 , but I also travelled a lot . I took roughly 10 MRT journeys and was exploring for 14 hours a day; more than most tourists ever will! Still, I would have saved just over $3 if I had bought the Singapore Tourist Pass.

Because there’s so little price difference in it, I probably wouldn’t bother getting the Singapore Tourist Pass, especially if you don’t plan on rushing around and trying to see as much as possible in a short amount of time. It’s actually pretty tough to take the metro enough times to make the pass worth it.

Note, too, that days on the pass expire at the end of the day you activate it — by which I mean that if you landed in Singapore at 10 p.m., bought a Tourist Pass at the airport and used it on the MRT, your day one of the pass would expire two hours later at midnight. If you’re arriving on a late flight, then, I wouldn’t buy one at the airport.

Speaking of, I definitely recommend using the MRT to travel from Changi to your accommodation, simply because it’s super-cheap and super-simple to do so! The MRT covers basically any area of the city you’re likely to be staying in, so you rarely have to walk more than a few minutes to your accommodation from a station. I paid S$2 ($1.50) to take the MRT from the airport to Lyf Farrer Park .

In comparison, I paid S$24 ($18) to take a Grab taxi between the airport and Lyf Farrer Park, and have paid $27 in the past to use this private car service between the airport and the city before. Why would you pay ten times more when it’s so easy to just hop on the metro? Even my parents were comfortable using the MRT to get from the airport!

You can get to pretty much anywhere you’d want to go as a tourist using the MRT and it’s not too expensive either, averaging out at around $1-3 a ride . If you want to tally up your expected transportation costs before you arrive in the country, the MRT has a useful fare caculator on their site that will tell you how much each ride will come to.

It’s simple to pay for the MRT, too, as you simply tap your credit/debit card (or phone, if you’re using Apple Pay/Google Pay) at the payment terminal at the gates and walk straight through; too easy!

Buses are priced similarly to the metro ( $1-2 per ride ), but slightly more complicated and usually a bit slower, so there’s no real reason to opt for them instead. Much as with the MRT, you can use Apple/Google Pay or your contactless debit/credit card to pay.

If you do want to visit somewhere that isn’t served by the bus or MRT, you’re probably going to end up taking a taxi.

Uber isn’t available in Singapore, but most people use the Grab app, which is essentially the same thing. It’s simple to use, reasonably affordable ( S$0.16 a minute), and better than standing around waiting for a taxi to drive past. If you’re heading to Singapore, I’d recommend downloading Grab before you leave and adding your card details, so that’s it’s all set up when you arrive.

In Singapore, I usually average around $8 a day on transportation costs.

The Cost of Food and Drink in Singapore

Oh man, the Singapore food scene is incredible . You can eat so well in this country, and it’s one of the best ways to save money, too. If you eat from the hawker stalls, you’ll be spending less than S$5 for a tasty, fresh meal.

It’s pretty tough to find bad food in this country, too. One of the great things about a country that’s full of tasty meals is that nobody is going to settle for anything less. If you’re serving bad food in Singapore, you simply aren’t going to survive for long.

One of my personal food highlights from my time in Singapore was the food tour I signed up for. In fact, I loved this tour so much that I bought it for a birthday present for my parents when they came to Singapore last year; that’s how amazing it was! It’s pretty pricey at a cost of $150 per person , but it’s so much more than a food tour! It includes a full day of walking around the city and learning about its history, while introducing you to all of the best dishes in the country.

Aside from the tour, the easiest way to save money is at the aforementioned hawker centres. These are covered areas filled with tons of different food stalls, and are super fun and fascinating to spend time in.

So what type of food can you get in these Hawker centres? 

There’s so much on offer! Singaporean cuisine pulls in influences from Malaysia, China, and India, and all of those flavours and spices mixing together makes for some of the best eating on the planet. Chicken and rice is an iconic dish in this country, but aside from that, you’ll find all manner of curries, soups, grilled meat and vegetables, dumplings, salads, fried noodles, seafood, and practically anything you can think of. The fruit shakes and smoothies are also all cheap, fresh, and delicious — so wash down your meal with one of those.

And before you form an opinion that the food that’s served in these places is going to be mediocre, let me tell you that several of the food stands have been awarded a Michelin star! Yes, Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle Stall, in particular, is where you can score the cheapest Michelin-starred meal in the world. At a price of just $1.42 for a plate of chicken and rice, it’s impossible to be disappointed by it. I made this my first meal in Singapore and couldn’t believe how tasty such a simple dish could be!

Speaking of food experiences to dive into in Singapore, a lot of people go crazy over having a Singapore Sling at the Raffles Hotel. This famous cocktail was invented there back in 1915 and if you want to have one in its birthplace, you’ll be looking at shelling out $29 (S$39) for the experience! Speaking of shelling… no, the Long Bar isn’t dirty: it’s just tradition to throw your peanut shells on the ground after eating them! (Yes, I almost complained when I sat down because I thought I’d been placed at a messy table!)

When it comes to alcohol, you can expect to pay around S$20 for a cocktail in a nice bar, and a glass of wine for around S$12 in a restaurant. Fun fact: Singapore is the 6th most expensive country in the world for beer, and you can expect to pay S$12 for a 330ml can. Yeah, alcohol sure is expensive in this city!

Singapore’s tap water is totally safe to drink, so you don’t need to buy bottled water (S$4 for a 1-litre bottle) while you’re in town.

In Southeast Asia, in general, I really don’t recommend cooking your own food, unless you have a strict dietary requirement. Buying ingredients for meals is simply too expensive — you can spend $10-15 on ingredients for a dish that you can get for $4 on the streets.

And as for restaurants, they’re everywhere and reasonably expensive compared to the hawker goodness. A two-course meal with a glass of wine can be around S$40 .

In general, I’d recommend expecting to spend around S$15 a day to have all of your meals/drinks at Hawker centres, and S$30 a day if you throw in a restaurant and cafe every now and then.

The Cost of Activities in Singapore

We’ve covered accommodation, transportation, and food, so the only thing left to take a look at is the cost of activities in Singapore! If you’re not careful, this is the category that can obliterate your budget. There’s so many things to see and do in this country.

I’ll start with my favourite free activities in Singapore. If you’re on a tight budget or looking for ways to save money, there’s plenty of opportunity to spend nothing at all.

One of my favourite things to do in Singapore is wander through the city’s botanic gardens. And if you think you’ve seen botanic gardens before — trust me, you’ve never seen botanic gardens like these ! They’re even a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The botanic gardens are completely free to enter and cover an enormous amount of ground; I would say you could easily spend half a day just walking around them.

Exploring the diverse neighbourhoods of Singapore is another free activity that is well-worth doing. Little India is packed full of colourful buildings, Chinatown is home to some of the best murals in the city, and Kampong Glam (the Islamic Quarter) is laidback and full of great opportunities for window-shopping. I’ve spent a full day just walking through these three neighbourhoods in the past, comparing the different religions, architectures, cuisines, and temples they have on offer.

If you want yourself an iconic view, head to Merlion Park. The Merlion (half-lion, half-mermaid) is a famous symbol of the country and it’s located across the river from Marina Bay Sands; you can’t get more Singapore than that! I also enjoyed the view from the rooftop art garden at the National Gallery of Singapore; while you have to pay to see some exhibits, many of them are free, including the garden!

Fort Canning Park is another one of my favourite spots in Singapore. Again, it’s completely free to walk around this grassy area of land, snapping photos of the Instagram-famous tree tunnel and learning more about the park’s contributions to WWII (there’s an old bunker you can explore!)

And did you know that you can visit the nightly Gardens By the Bay light show for free? The show runs daily at 7:45 p.m. and 8:45 p.m. and is so worth experiencing. I almost cried when I was there because it felt so magical!

As you can see, there’s plenty to keep you busy if you don’t have much money to spend.

But which activities are worth the money?

Gardens By the Bay is really the main attraction of Singapore, comprising multiple opportunities to get up close with tropical plants. You have a whole bunch of different ticket options and combinations here, and to make the most out of your stay, I recommend opting for the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome ( S$59 ) entrance and the OCBC Skyway ( S$14 ). I don’t recommend the Supertree Observatory ( S$14 ), as it provides a similar experience to the Skyway but isn’t as interesting.

Yeah, it’s a pricey experience, for sure! But in my eyes, it’s absolutely worth it, as the whole area is so impressive. It’s one of the coolest places I’ve ever been! If you’re wondering whether to splurge, I say absolutely.

I’ve been to all of the museums and galleries in Singapore and if you were only going to do one of them, I’d suggest the National Museum of Singapore ( S$10 ). I was so impressed with this museum and learned so much about the history of Singapore while I was there; in particular the Japanese occupation of the country, which I didn’t know much about.

Other Expenses for Singapore

A Singapore guidebook :  A guidebook will give you an in-depth look into Singaporean culture, suggest the perfect itineraries for the amount of time you have, and offer recommendations for where to eat and what’s worth doing. I like Lonely Planet guidebooks and their  Singapore offering receives some of the best reviews .

A local SIM card:  I don’t know about you, but one of my least favourite aspects of arriving in a new country is having to figure out how to get connected. Specifically: buying a local SIM card so that I have data to use while I’m in the country.

There’s locating a store that will sell you one, language barriers to deal with, various forms of ID you might need to bring, scams to navigate, and… well, it’s a headache.

This year, I started using  Airalo , which sells local e-SIM cards for travellers. What that means is that you can buy your SIM card online  before  you arrive in Singapore, and then as soon as you land in the country, you can switch on your data and start using it. It’s worked flawlessly for me and now, I’ll never go back to physical SIM cards. You’ll pay  $7.50 for 1 GB of data  or $22.50 for 5 GB for Singapore and can also top-up through the Airalo app.

Make sure you have an e-SIM compatible phone before buying — all recent iPhones and many Androids are.

Travel insurance : If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Singapore. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re affordable, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

How Much Did I Spend on My Trip to Singapore?

I always like to share my own personal expenses when travelling in a country, as I think it helps you figure out what you should be expecting to pay each day while you’re there. A list of expenses is great and helpful, of course, but putting them all together in order to come up with a reasonable estimate can be trickier.

Here’s what I spent on my 2024 mid-range trip to Singapore

Accommodation: $70 per day Transportation: $10 per day Food and drink: $13 per day Activities: $60 per day

My average daily cost of travel in the Singapore was therefore:  $150 per day. It’s certainly not as cheap as elsewhere in Southeast Asia, but it’s still a lot more affordable than I expected! Had I skipped out on all of the paid experiences and focused just on the free activities, I’d have averaged under $100 per day !

Related Articles on Singapore 🇸🇬 25 Incredible Things to Do in Singapore 🚇 How to Spend Four Days in Singapore 🦁 Is Singapore Zoo the Best Zoo in the World?

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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26 comments.

We really enjoyed the night safari at Singapore Zoo. The highlight though was when we were walking round and a tram went past to which a child on board pointed at us and the other people waiting to cross the road and said “Look mummy, humans!”. That made us giggle.

We love reading your blog by the way.

WHY aren’t more zoos open at night? Even just one day a week, I feel like this would bring in a lot more business.

The Night Safari is actually a separate zoo, so it’s not just the Singapore Zoo being open at night

This looks unreal! I agree with John – Why aren’t more zoos open at night?!

Hi! I am going to Singapore for a 3 day vacation. If to choose between Singapore zoo and night safari. Which do you think is a better choice?

Definitely the Night Safari!

Can’t wait to do this in a few weeks! Eeeeee!

Flying into Singapore tomorrow and only just starting to do my research! Your post helps us a lot, as we now know what to expect from our visit. Definitely going to be eating in hawker centres for every meal.

Have an amazing trip, Simone! The hawker centres are easily one of the highlights of travel in Singapore, so it’s an added bonus that they help to keep your travel costs low.

One of the reasons why I love Singapore is all of its green spaces and plants. I could spend days just walking around the botanical gardens. It may be expensive, but there are definitely ways in which you can save your money, as you mentioned in this post.

Yes, for sure. And I agree — I’m big into houseplants at the moment, and I’d love to return to Singapore just to take a look at all of its wonderful gardens.

hey Lauren Do you have a hostel to recommend in Singapore?? The OSS Backpackers you mentioned is the best one? Thank you!

Yep! Unfortunately, hostels don’t have the best reviews in Singapore, so if you’re tight on money, I’d recommend the OSS Backpackers :-) — it’s the best option for backpackers/budget travellers.

Thanks for the budget information and also for covering how to get to Malaysia, as that’s the route I’m planning to take. Have to admit the pod hotels sound like an experience and I might try one for a night or two! The fact that it helps save you money makes it all the more appealing.

Absolutely! If you’re planning on spending most of your time outdoors and exploring Singapore, they make even more sense. All you need is a place to sleep then :-)

Thanks for this guide Lauren! I’m working my way south from Bangkok to Singapore over the next three months and your guide was helpful for showing me what to expect when I reach the end. I’m 100% going to stay in one of those capsule pods lol they look so cool!

No problem! I’m happy you found it useful :-) Have a wonderful (and delicious) adventure in Southeast Asia!

Useful post, thanks Lauren. I’m going to be ending my nine months in Southeast Asia (sob) with a week in Singapore and this helped me work out how much money I should be leaving for my final week on the road. Looking forward to heading there and seeing how it differs to the other places I’ve been to in Asia so far.

I need someone to give me estimate number how much it costs me if I need to stay 3 days with my girlfriend. attending a special occasion and sightseeing.

Thanks for this great post about budgeting for Singapore! I’ll be going that way during my RTW trip and it’s good to hear it doesn’t have to be expensive. Great information!

Thanks so much, Cindy! No, it definitely doesn’t have to cost a lot :-)

Thanks for this, Lauren. Another detailed post! I know Singapore is more expensive than neighboring countries, but it’s good to see it can be visited on a low budget too.

Thank you! Yes, Singapore can still be done on a tight budget, and especially with the food!

I completely agree with your observations about Singapore’s rising costs after the pandemic, particularly in the accommodation sector. I appreciate your warning with Heritage Collection; reading about the treatment you got was disheartening, and I will surely try to avoid it. Your recommendations for affordable hostel options like 7 Wonders Boutique and Dream Lodge, are such great finds, and I am eager to check them out on my next travel there.

Your insight on the transportation options like the Singapore Tourist Pass sounds very worth it, with the unlimited rides for up to three days, which by then travelers already get the most out of Singapore. Your exploration on Singapore’s delicious culinary also got me wanting to give a taste on the cheapest Michelin-starred meal by Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle.

I am curious about your thoughts of the must-visit paid tourist attractions or activities in Singapore other than Gardens by the Bay. Do you think purchasing a Universal Studios ticket is also going to be worth it? Also, have you ever been caught off-guard by unplanned travel costs? How did you deal with it? I would love to know about your experiences and advice!

Thank you for the great insight and tips. We live in the Philippines and this will be my first trip to Singapore. I grew up in USA and traveled as a child with my family (British Mum) and young adult on my own. No blogs way back then.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Singapore » Travel Expensive

Is Singapore Expensive? (The Cost to Travel Singapore in 2024)

With tropical gardens nestled between gleaming skyscrapers, Singapore is a city of harmonious contrasts. Apart from stunning views, tourists are entranced by the rich history that has made the city a cultural melting pot. Exploring Hindu temples, mosques, and traditional Chinese and Indian districts are some of the best experiences!

The city is routinely listed as one of the world’s priciest destinations. Why is Singapore so expensive? Well, the way “priceyness” is measured is via an index of goods that most ex-pats make use of.

Remember that as a tourist, your costs are very different from those of ex-pats (no private schooling, for instance). If you travel with your budget in mind, you can still enjoy a great holiday. So, is Singapore expensive? No.

This guide is your comprehensive A-Z for having the time of your life while sticking to a budget. Affordable accommodation, cheap flights, free attractions…you’ll find it all here!

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So, How Much Does a Trip to Singapore Cost on Average?

Cost of flights to singapore, price of accommodation in singapore, cost of transport in singapore, cost of food in singapore, price of alcohol in singapore, cost of attractions in singapore, additional costs of travel in singapore, some final tips for saving money in singapore, so is singapore expensive, in fact.

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When you’re working out your Singapore travel costs, there are multiple expenses to keep in mind. This guide looks at the costs associated with flights, on the ground transport, accommodation, and food, as well as admission to attractions and miscellaneous expenses.

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All the costs in this post are estimates and are subject to change. They’re helpful in establishing a benchmark but you should also leave money in your budget for “just in case”. Remember that all costs are listed in US Dollars.

The Singapore Dollar (SGD) is the country’s currency. Find out how much your money is worth today by using the up-to-date converter below.

3 Days in Singapore Travel Costs

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: US $388 for a round trip ticket.

Flight prices fluctuate throughout the year. Some seasons are cheaper to travel in than others. If you’re wanting to travel Singapore on a budget, it’s a good idea to try and book flights during cheaper times.

Here are the estimated airfares for return flights from four major cities:

• New York to Changi International Airport: $503 USD
• London to Changi International Airport: £383 GBP
• Sydney to Changi International Airport: $405 AUD
• Vancouver to Changi International Airport: $757 CAD

Fortunately, you can keep the cost of a trip to Singapore low with a few expert tricks! Always use the incognito browser when you’re booking your own flights. This helps you avoid cookies which, basically, ensure that the price goes up every time you search. Using a flight comparison website and watch for error fares will also help you bag a cheap flight.

There are two major airports in Singapore: Changi International Airport (SIN) and Seletar Airport (XSP). With its stunning architecture and indoor garden, Changi is a tourist attraction in its own right. It’s also been named the world’s top airport a number of times! Although Changi is the city’s major airport, Seletar has cheaper airport fees so you’ll generally find affordable flights arriving here.

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ESTIMATED EXPENSE: US $20-$70/day

Is Singapore expensive to visit when it comes to accommodation? That really depends on what you’re looking for from your accommodation and what area of Singapore you stay in ! Hotels and hostels operate on the same price range you’ll find in Western Europe so you’ll have to make compromises to keep costs low.

If budget is your priority, then book a bed in a dormitory. For those who crave privacy and a little luxury, it’s hard to beat a hotel. Traveling in a group? Want to live like a local? An Airbnb is for you. Looking to live in Singapore for longer? You’ll probably have to get a long-term accommodation.

Hostels and Homestays in Singapore

Hostels and Homestays offer the lowest Singapore prices for accommodation. Not only is the actual rate per night lower than that of a hotel but you can save in other ways, too. Most budget hostels in Singapore have a communal kitchen where you can cook your own meals, instead of eating out at pricey restaurants. The trade-off is that you have to share a room and a bathroom.

Looking on the bright side, however, this sharing-is-caring environment lends a social atmosphere to hostels and you can easily meet new people! Some hostels can even be quite fancy, with curtains around the dorm beds and plenty of modern appliances. Expect to pay around $20-$30 per bed per night.

Singapore’s homestays offer a bit more privacy, however, they’re slightly more expensive. If you prefer to have your own room but shared common spaces and living in a local’s home, then homestays are your go-to.

• Drea m Lodge:  A lovely hipster neighborhood, pod-style dorm beds, and homey touches like reading lamps make this place a favorite. Dream is one of the cheapest hostels in Singapore.
• Happy Snail Hostel:  Free walking tours and all-day air con are the highlights here. Is Singapore expensive? Not here.
• Wink Capsule Hostel:  If you like your hostels with a bit of style, then this is for you. It’s rather like a boutique hotel on a budget.

Airbnbs in Singapore

It’s hard to estimate the cost of a short-term apartment. It depends on how many bedrooms, the area and the kinds of amenities on offer. On Airbnb, you’ll pay upwards of $30 for an entire apartment and around $25 for a private room.

Staying in an apartment is the best way to avoid the generic atmosphere of a hotel and offers a sneak-peek into local lives. While an apartment is pricier than a hostel, you still save money by being able to cook your own food.

Airbnb is the best place to find short-term rentals, and there are heaps of amazing apartments in Singapore . Using Airbnb to find a place in Singapore is easy: has a number of helpful filters (for instance, the ability to choose between a private room and an entire apartment) to assist in your search.

• Homey One-Bed Apartment:  There’s no shortage of space in this apartment. A full modern kitchen and the views are the highlights.
• Bright Loft Room:  There’s character galore in this loft room that can sleep three. A shared kitchen and convenient location round off the package.
• Central, Sleek Studio:  For convenience and comfort, this is a smart choice. The complex offers a pool and a rooftop terrace.

Hotels in Singapore

Is Singapore expensive when you’re staying in the best hotels ? Most of the time, definitely yes. Expect to pay upwards of $60 for a basic but comfortable hotel room with a private bathroom.

Hotels do have their advantages, though. The private rooms and bathrooms mean you don’t need to worry about loud dormmates or about leaving your belongings when you’re out.

They offer the kind of luxury and convenience that most people associate with going on holiday (you’ll never have to wash up, for instance). In fact, there are some incredible rooftop pool hotels that offer world-class service, if you have the money for it.

Hotels, especially the larger ones, offer plenty of amenities and can organize activities for you.

• Hotel Mono:  With a sleek monochrome design, there’s nothing out of place at Hotel Mono. The rooms are spacious and the location in Chinatown is very central.
• ST Signature Jalan Besar:  This hotel is spotless and super comfy. The central location in Little India offers easy access to Singapore’s cultural charms.
• Arcadia Hotel:  Friendly staff and comfortable rooms make for a delightful stay. Three railway stations in the vicinity make getting around a breeze.

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ESTIMATED EXPENSE: US $2-$7/day

Is Singapore cheap? When it comes to transport, the city actually offers very affordable options. This is thanks to the city’s small size and a very efficient network which makes scooting around Singapore on a quick itinerary a breeze!

To get around the city you can take the metro, MRT, or the bus. There’s also the option of taking a taxi or hiring a car or scooter.

Train Travel in Singapore

MRT is the most convenient and time-effective way of getting around the city. Trains run from 05:30 am to midnight and you’ll seldom wait more than seven minutes for a train. All in all, it’s a great way of getting around.

Train fares are pretty cheap, especially considering their efficiency. You’ll pay $1-$2 per ride.

To save money on train travel, there are some great hacks. Remember that using these discounts is only worth it if you plan on using public transport a lot!

An EZ-Link card offers you up to 30% off train fares. There’s a small deposit but this is refundable when you’re done with the card. It’s also a lot more convenient to use this card rather than to keep buying individual tickets. It’s $8 for the card, including the $3.5 deposit.

A Singapore Tourist Pass is an even better option to keep your Singapore trip costs low. It offers unlimited travel on buses and trains for a select period.

• One-day pass: $7
• Two-day pass: $11
• Three-day pass $14

Bus Travel in Singapore

With the low cost and superior convenience of MRT, buses are less popular in Singapore. The only time the bus is more convenient is in the hours after midnight (only on weekends and public holidays) when the trains don’t run.

If you take the bus, you’ll generally have a good experience as the vehicles are clean and run on a regular schedule. There’s an app, SG Bus, that helps to track real-time bus arrivals.

The bus is cheaper than MRT but only by a narrow margin. You can pay between $1 and $1.50 per journey.

You can use both the EZ-Card and the Singapore Tourist Pass to travel by bus. It’s $8 for the card, including the $3.5 deposit. There are a number of options for the Singapore Tourist Pass:

Renting a Scooter or Bicycle in Singapore

Although renting a scooter or a bicycle is possible, it’s not the best way to get around in Singapore. The roads are hot and congested, and drivers are impatient. If you want to take a bicycle ride, you’re better off doing so in one of the lovely public parks. E-scooters are also not allowed on roads or pavements, and only on designated cycling paths.

Bike-sharing used to be popular but it has declined in popularity recently. The only company still operational is SG Bike. If you want a scooter or bicycle, try JoyScoot which hires them out from $7 per hour.

With a cost of $7 per hour, hiring a bicycle is not the best way to travel in Singapore for cheap. SG Bike offers free 30-minute rides, although you do have to pay a flat $4 to access the service for seven days.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: US $10-$80/day

Food is a major expense to consider when calculating your Singapore trip costs. If you’re planning on eating out in restaurants, be prepared for high prices. But if you’re willing to try the hawker stands, which serve fabulous dishes, then your budget will be just fine!

Singapore’s rich culture means you’re in for a real treat when eating out. The epic combination of Indian, Chinese, Malay and Indonesian influences means there are quite a few dishes that you have to try!

Chilli crab is the top dish on every tourist’s bucket list. Hawker stalls serve it but if you have money to spare, try Mellben Seafood where the dish costs about $40.

Laksa is another delicious meal. With noodles and lots of spice, it has both Malay and Chinese influences. It costs around $3 at hawker centers.

To keep your Singapore cost of travel low, avoid eating out in restaurants. You can still get yummy meals from informal stalls. Keep an eye out for meal specials while you’re sightseeing and come back for dinner.

Where to Eat Cheaply in Singapore

In any city around the world, some eateries are cheaper than others. Singapore is no different and there are plenty of top-class options for those who want to travel on a budget .

• Hawker centers: These are the backpacker’s go-to come mealtime. It’s kind of like a food court but the authenticity is much better. Chinatown Complex Food Center is the largest one in Singapore. Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle is one of a number of hawker stalls to be awarded a Michelin star! The average dish costs just $2-$3.50!
• Affordable restaurants: Most restaurants are expensive but there is a handful where you can grab a main course for under $20. Try The Green Ducklings where you can get a Shabu Pork Rice Bowl for $13. If you’re in the city center, head to Hans im Glück where you’ll get a burger for $15.
• Grocery stores: Cooking your own meals in the hostel or Airbnb kitchen is the cheapest way to eat in Singapore. Even if you’re staying in a hotel, you can pick up bread for $2 and a few apples for under $3. Sheng Siong outlets offer the lowest prices, while Fair Price stores have lots of variety.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: US $2-$21/day

Remember that in Singapore, drinking in public places is illegal (this excludes restaurants and bars but includes spaces like parks). Some areas, such as Little India, have stricter restrictions. Be sure to heed these rules as the penalties are stiff (a fine can cost up to $705).

How expensive is Singapore when it comes to drinking? Thanks largely to steep taxes, alcohol can get pricey. You’ll save money by drinking beer as opposed to wine and cocktails.

Thanks to the pricing, beer is the most popular drink in town. Try the local brand, Tiger Beer. Singapore Sling, a fruity, gin-based cocktail, is another favorite.

• The cost of Tiger Beer depends on where you get it: pay around $1.70 for a small can at the supermarket and $10 for a pint at a bar.
• Singapore Sling costs around $21 per glass at a swanky bar.

To get the best deals on alcohol, you need to be creative and think ahead:

• For a 0.63L bottle of beer, you’re better off drinking in Chinese restaurants. This will cost $3-$6, whereas bars can charge double that.
• If you really want that bottle of wine, buy it in the duty-free section at the airport when you arrive.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: US $14 – $44/day

Singapore is a modern metropolis that’s bounding with culture and natural beauty. In the Gardens by the Bay, you’ll be in awe of the 114-foot waterfall. The National Gallery, meanwhile, boasts an epic 8000 pieces of art!

Is it expensive to go sightseeing in Singapore ? Well, as with most things, that depends. If you pick a few attractions to see and stick to free or low-cost landmarks for the rest, then you’ll manage just fine.

Despite Singapore’s reputation for priceyness, there is a number of ways you can stay on budget or even explore for free!

• The Singapore City Pass is a lifesaver when it comes to sightseeing Singapore on a budget. There are options for 2, 3 and 5 days. It includes unlimited hop-on, hop-off sightseeing, and entrance to two attractions over the course of the ticket.
• Some of the city’s top attractions are actually free. This includes Sentosa Island and Singapore Botanic Gardens.
• You can enjoy great views without paying a dime. Check out the view of Gardens by the Bay lit-up from the free part of the garden. There’s also a free laser light show in the evening at Marina Bay Sands Boardwalk.

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There are some expenses that you just can’t factor into your budget ahead of time. Things like souvenir shopping, tipping, storage fees and buying medicine can all wreak havoc on your budget.

Plan ahead for Sinapore, write a list of what to pack , and set aside a miscellaneous amount. Around 10% of your total trip to Singapore’s cost should be sufficient.

Tipping in Singapore

Since tipping isn’t customary in the city, this is another area where you can keep your Singapore vacation cost down.

Bear in mind that most restaurants automatically add a 10% service charge. If you wish to tip for good service, then hand the cash directly to your waiter. While taxi drivers generally return any extra money, bellhops will be happy with $1-$2 per bag.

Get Travel Insurance for Singapore

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Still looking for ways to travel Singapore on a budget? We’ve got a few more tricks for you to try.

• Try Couchsurfing : Signing up on the site is free and you’ll be able to connect with locals who have a spare bed or a couch for you to crash on for free. It’s a great way to experience authentic Singapore. Just choose hosts who have good reviews!
• Share meals with other travelers: This is especially useful if you’re staying in a hostel. It’s much cheaper to cook in bulk (so long as everyone pays their share) and if you take turns cooking each night, you’ll also spend less time in the kitchen. Not to mention, this is a cool way to make friends.
• Save on foreign exchange: Using your normal bank card overseas means you can rack up a lot of foreign exchange fees. Ask your bank if they have a card with no foreign transaction fees. Limit the number of times you draw cash as each withdrawal might have a flat fee.
• Use free WiFi: Make sure that your hotel offers free WiFi. Google all the places you’re visiting the next day and take screenshots of important information. This way you won’t need to put your phone on roaming, which costs a lot, while you’re out!
• Pack a travel water bottle : Don’t waste money on plastic, bottled waters; carry your own and refill it in the fountains and the tap. If you’re worried about potable water, get a filtered bottle, like the GRAYL, which filters out 99% of viruses and bacteria.
• Earn money while you travel: Teaching English while traveling is a great way to make ends meet! If you find a sweet gig, you may even end up living in Singapore.
• Become a volunteer with Worldpackers : Give back to the local community and, in exchange, you’re room and board will often be covered. It’s not always free, but it’s still a cheap way to travel in Singapore.

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Knowing how much a trip to Singapore costs is the first step to staying on budget, no matter how much money you’re prepared to spend. Although it has a dizzying reputation for being expensive, there are so many ways that you can travel Singapore on a backpacker’s budget

By staying in a hostel or Airbnb, you not only save on accommodation but also on food expenses, since you’ll be able to cook your own meals. For just a few dollars, you can get Michelin-starred meals to supplement your diet. Transport costs are almost negligible. As for sightseeing, there are so many free attractions in Singapore that you’ll scarcely have time to see all of them!

In short, Singapore needn’t be an expensive destination. So long as you plan ahead and make smart choices with your money, you’ll be able to both explore the city and stick to your budget!

What we think an average daily budget for Singapore should be: $60-$100.

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely people suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

Monique MacPhail

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How Much it Cost to Travel to Singapore: Detailed Prices

One of the world’s most modern cities, Singapore has transformed itself in recent years to a must-see city for anyone going to Asia. It’s now quite expensive compared to most other large Asian cities, but it still mostly feels like good value.

Travel Costs to Singapore

What is the average price of a hotel in singapore.

Hotels and even hostels in Singapore are now even more expensive than those in Tokyo, so this will be your biggest expense. You’ll find some cheaper places mixed in the listings, but they will all be in inconvenient neighborhoods and often there will be no window in the room. For a proper 3-star hotel (with a window), you’ll spend a small fortune.

Singapore Hotel Seasons

Hotels and hostels in Singapore tend to be popular all year round, although there are some seasonal variations to be aware of. June and July tend to be high season in Singapore as many foreign tourists have free time during that period. November and December are also a high season for hotels in particular as many Malaysians and other nearby people have long holidays during this period.

The rest of the year could generally be considered the low season, but don’t expect the prices to drop much. If anything this just means you’ll have to book further ahead if you are coming during high season while during the rest of the year you have a decent chance of booking something in person or at the last minute.

Singapore Hotel Prices

Singapore hostels prices, how much does it cost to visit top attractions in singapore.

Singapore has long been an excellent shopping destination with dozens of nice shopping centers featuring chain stores and one-offs at reasonable prices.

Again, the food scene in Singapore is legendary. You can find a dizzying array of Asian specialties at the traditional sit-down restaurants, and many other local delights at the famous hawker centers.

With its combination of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures, Singapore features a wide variety of temples and other cultural sights that feel like you are visiting several places at once.

Best tours in Singapore

The hop-on, hop-off tours of Singapore are very worthwhile and a great way to get your bearings early in your visit. The main tourist districts are spread apart and being able to take a double-decker open-top bus between them is helpful.

Walking tours of Singapore are worth a look if they cater to your specific interests.

What’s the average price of food and drink in Singapore?

Food in Singapore is one of the main highlights, with its famous hawker stalls all over the city preparing excellent and generous meals for a very low cost, in very sanitary conditions. Drinks can be a bit expensive by Asian standards, but happy hour bargains can be found. Restaurants meant for tourists can be expensive, especially in the main hotel districts.

Featured articles

What are the costs of transportation in singapore, getting to singapore.

Most visitors arrive in Singapore into Changi Airport, which frequently tops the world’s-best airport lists. Fares from within Asia are usually very reasonable, and fares from Europe and North America are competitive as well.

Train service connects Singapore with Malaysia, although it’s necessary to go through immigration and customs and then change trains on the other side.

Bus service from Kuala Lumpur and elsewhere in Malaysia is frequent and affordable, although going through the border is similar to the train so it’s a bit more complicated than it could be.

Getting around Singapore

Many of the tourist districts of Singapore are very pedestrian friendly and the island is almost completely flat, but it is always quite warm and humid so walking long distances isn’t always ideal.

The MRT is the metro system and it’s very affordable and efficient. It connects most of the tourist hubs as well as the airport.

Taxis in Singapore are easy to use and are more honest than most other places in Asia.

When to visit Singapore

Temperature and rainfall, singapore weather advice.

More than just about any other place on earth, Singapore’s rainforest-like climate stays almost exactly the same every day of the year. You can count on it being hot and humid during the day and very warm and humid every night. It also rains a lot virtually every month so it’s a good idea to be prepared for a sudden downpour or two, also keeping in mind the sweltering heat and humidity you’ll still be swimming in.

November through January are the slightly wetter “monsoon” months, but that really doesn’t change things much in Singapore. Curiously, May is generally the hottest month of the year by a little bit, and it’s typically the most uncomfortable as well.

Sunrise and sunset

Where to go before and after.

Lists by Lukiih 🍀

Practical travel guides with less fluff

💰 My 2024 Singapore Trip Cost: A Budget Breakdown

Singapore, a country famous for its impressive skyline and hawker centers, can be visited with a budget of $70 to $140 a day .

My three-day trip to Singapore cost a total of $630 . In this post, I share:

• 💰 Expected travel costs
• 💡 Budgeting tips
• 💵 How much cash to bring
• ✈️ My trip’s costs by category
• Is Singapore Expensive?
• How Much Is a Trip?
• About My Trip
• Cost Breakdown
• Daily Budget: $122
• Flight: $218
• Accommodation: $159
• Transportation: $19
• Entertainment: $34
• Withdrawing Cash
• How Much Cash To Bring
• Tipping Etiquette

Lists By Lukiih is readers-supported. When you buy with my affiliate link, I may earn a small commission. Thanks!

Is Singapore Expensive To Travel To?

Singapore ranks as  one of the most expensive  destinations in Asia. Although it offers affordable food at hawker stalls, it also has a relatively high cost of living, costly accommodation options, and pricey attractions and entrance fees.

Along with Japan and Hong Kong, Singapore is often considered a  luxury destination  in Asia.

However, with advanced planning and the willingness to forego certain experiences, Singapore  can be visited on a tighter budget .

💰 Trip Daily Budget for Destinations in Asia

For comparison, I visited these countries in Asia within a year of visiting Singapore, and here’s how much I spent per day at each one:

*My Cambodia daily budget is high because I splurged on accommodation.

See all my daily budgets .

How Much Is a Trip to Singapore?

This section covers estimated trip costs depending on your travel style. I share my actual travel expenses further below.

🎒 Budget Traveler – Singapore Trip Cost

Budget travelers can expect to spend approximately $70 per day or $210 for three days of travel in Singapore, excluding flights.

Here’s what a budget traveler’s cost breakdown can look like:

Traveling Singapore on a Budget

To travel to Singapore on a budget, here are some things you’ll need to do:

• 🏠 Accommodation – For the cheapest option, stay at a  dorm-style hostel for about $25 a night . For more privacy, a private room at a capsule hotel typically costs about $35 a night.
• 🚇 Transportation – Take advantage of Singapore’s modern public transportation, the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit). A metro ticket price varies by distance, but it’s generally less than $3 per ride.

Singapore offers different types of Singapore Tourist Pass that give unlimited rides on public transport.

• 🦀 Food – Eat at hawker centers, which are popular open-air food courts that serve traditional, authentic Singaporean foods. Meals can be less than $5 there.

Tap water is safe to drink in Singapore, as it meets WHO guidelines for water quality. Bring a reusable water bottle to avoid having to buy bottled water.

• 🪴 Entertainment – Singapore has many pricey attractions with an entrance fee, but you can also visit them for free if you’re okay with not paying for the viewpoints or special exhibitions. For example, you can visit Singapore’s most famous tourist attraction, Gardens by the Bay, for free by skipping the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. I did this, and I still thoroughly enjoyed my visit.
• ☀️ Travel Season  – Unlike many other countries, Singapore doesn’t have a well-defined low season because of its consistently warm weather, making it a year-round destination. For the best deals on accommodations, avoid Singapore’s major festivals (e.g., Chinese New Year in early February) and public holidays.

💰 Mid-Range Budget Traveler – Singapore Trip Cost

A mid-range budget traveler like myself can expect to spend approximately  $140 per day   or $420 for three days  of travel in Singapore, excluding flights. I break down my trip expenses by travel category below.

About My Singapore Trip

To give context to the expenses below, here’s what you need to know about my trip:

• 🗓️  3 days – I spent three days in Singapore, which gave me enough time to see some of the top attractions and go on a day-long biking trip.
• ☀️ High season – I visited Singapore in November, which is considered the high season.

Singapore has two peak seasons : one from November to January and another from June to July.

• ✌️ Group travel – I traveled with one other person, so we were able to split some costs, such as housing.
• 💰 Mid-range budget – I consider myself a mid-range budget traveler, and these expenses reflect that. I don’t aim to travel on a budget, but I’m thoughtful about how and where I spend.
• 🍀 Self-funded – My trips are self-funded, so I paid for everything listed below. None of my excursions or experiences are sponsored.
• 💵 US dollars – All costs listed in this post are per person and in US dollars, converted from Singapore’s local currency, the Singapore dollar.

The exchange rate was $1 USD = S$1.35 at the time of writing.

Singapore Trip’s Total Cost: $630

My three-day trip to Singapore cost a total of $630 , including flights.

💰 Cost Breakdown for Singapore

Here’s a quick overview of my expenses by travel category:

🗓️ Daily Budget in Singapore: $122

My Singapore trip cost $122 per day , excluding my flights from Malaysia and to Taiwan.

A mid-range budget traveler can expect to spend $140 per day in Singapore. This generally means staying at accommodations that cost about $60 per night, eating a mix of hawker stall and restaurant food, and paying entrance fees for popular attractions.

✈️ Flight Cost to Singapore: $218

I usually take round-trip flights from the United States, but I flew into Singapore from Malaysia and out to Taiwan for this trip. Here are my flight costs:

A round-trip flight between the US and Singapore that costs under $800 is considered cheap; international flights typically cost over $950.

🏠 Accommodation Cost in Singapore: $159

My average cost of accommodation in Singapore was $53 per day. I was able to split accommodations with one other person at all times.

I stayed at a hotel near Little India that was a conveniently short walking distance to the Farrer Park metro station.

Accommodations in Singapore are expensive . Well-rated mid-range hotels typically cost between $150 to $200 per night . Luxury hotels, like the famous Marina Bay Sands featured in Crazy Rich Asians, start at around $530 a night.

🦀 Food Cost in Singapore: $156

My average cost of food in Singapore was $52 per day.

A mid-range budget traveler can expect to spend about  $40 per day  on food in Singapore.

Cheapest Meals in Singapore

Here are the most affordable meals I ate during my trip:

The most affordable meals in Singapore are in the hawker centers (e.g., Tiong Bahru, Old Airport Road, East Coast Lagoon Food Village). You can get authentic Singaporean meals for less than $5 there.

Most Expensive Meals in Singapore

Here are the most expensive meals I ate during my trip:

The easiest and best way to discover authentic, delicious food is to go on a Singapore street food tour early in your trip.

🚇 Transportation Cost in Singapore: $19

My average cost of transportation in Singapore was $19 per day.

Here are the transportation methods I took and how much I paid for each:

You can keep transport costs low by using Singapore’s well-maintained public transit system. If you’re staying for an extended period, consider getting an EZ-Link card , a rechargeable card you can use at metro stations, convenience stores, and other businesses.

🪴 Entertainment Cost in Singapore: $34

My average cost of entertainment in Singapore was $11 per day. My entertainment costs are on the lower end because I did many free things and skipped many of the country’s paid attractions.

A typical mid-range traveler in Singapore can expect to spend about  $20 a day on entertainment.

Costs of Activities and Attractions in Singapore

Here are all the activities and attractions I paid for and how much each cost:

Free Things To Do in Singapore

It’s easy to rack up a large entertainment budget in Singapore because many attractions have an entrance fee. You can save money by taking advantage of its free attractions, gardens, and outdoor areas.

Here are six great free things to do in Singapore:

• Singapore Botanic Garden – The garden has no entrance fee and is more like a large park you can walk through. I spent more than an hour walking through it.

• Orchard Road – This road is an iconic landmark and commercial street lined with high-end stores, upscale hotels, and festive decorations around Christmas. You can spend some time window shopping here.
• Changi Airport – Singapore’s airport is considered one of the best airports in the world. The stunning airport has several worthwhile attractions, such as the Jewel.

• East Coast Park – This free park is next to sandy, accessible beaches. You can bike around it.
• Sentosa Island – This nearby island offers free entertainment and attractions, such as beaches, hikes, and a skywalk.
• Light shows – Catch one of Singapore’s impressive light shows (the most famous being Garden Rhapsody at Gardens by the Bay).

Do You Need Cash in Singapore?

Singapore has an  excellent credit card infrastructure , so you’ll only need to carry a bit of cash.

Below are tips on bringing and using cash in Singapore.

💵 1. Withdraw cash in Singaporean dollars.

Singapore’s local currency is the Singapore dollar (S$), and the US dollar is not widely accepted.

Since cash is rarely used , I recommend withdrawing once at the airport so you don’t have to worry about finding an ATM throughout your trip.

🏧 2. Carry about $10 to $15 worth of cash per day in Singapore.

On a typical day, a mid-range budget traveler in Singapore will need at least $15 in cash to mainly cover food expenses at hawker centers. If you don’t plan to eat at hawker stalls or local restaurants, you can likely carry $5 to $10 of cash daily.

I only needed cash in Singapore at hawker stalls, food court places, and small souvenir shops where most items were less than $20.

I keep my cash in my crossbody bag , but if you want extra protection against pickpocketing , carry it in a hidden money belt instead.

💰 3. Tipping is not customary in Singapore.

Tipping is  often appreciated  in Singapore, but it’s completely optional. Tipping is usually not expected as a service charge is already included in restaurant bills.

Thoughts? Questions? Leave a comment below .

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Uncovering the True Cost of Traveling in Singapore: A Budget-Friendly Guide for Every Traveler

Singapore, often referred to as the “Lion City,” is a city-state packed with towering skyscrapers, lush green parks, and a vibrant cultural scene. However, its reputation for being expensive can be a concern for budget travelers. Fear not, as this guide will break down the costs associated with a trip to Singapore and provide you with practical tips for making the most of your visit without breaking the bank.

Accommodation Costs in Singapore

When planning your budget for accommodation in Singapore, you’ll find a wide range of options to suit different budgets:

• Hostels and Budget Hotels: Prices for a bed in a hostel dormitory range between SGD 20-40 per night, while budget hotels start at around SGD 50 per night.
• Mid-Range Hotels: Mid-range hotels cost between SGD 100-200 per night. These often provide better amenities and are located closer to major attractions.
• Luxury Hotels: For a more luxurious stay, be prepared to spend upwards of SGD 300 per night. High-end hotels and resorts offer a lavish experience with unparalleled services.

Booking in advance and during off-peak seasons can result in lower rates. Check out the best accommodations on Agoda for great deals.

Transportation Costs

Singapore boasts an efficient and extensive public transportation system that makes getting around the city easy and economical:

• MRT and LRT: The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and Light Rail Transit (LRT) systems are the cheapest ways to get around Singapore. A typical journey costs between SGD 1-2.50.
• Bus: Bus rides are similarly economical, with fares ranging from SGD 1-2.50 depending on distance.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab offer convenience with higher costs. A short trip in a taxi can cost around SGD 10, while longer journeys and rush-hour trips can be significantly more expensive.
• Bicycle Rentals: For a more scenic and active way to see the city, consider renting a bike. Prices generally start at around SGD 8 per hour.

Food and Dining

Singapore is a foodie’s paradise, offering a wide array of dining options to fit any budget:

• Hawker Centers: These are the best places for budget meals, with dishes priced between SGD 3-6. Famous hawker centers include Maxwell Food Centre, Lau Pa Sat, and Chomp Chomp Food Centre.
• Mid-Range Restaurants: Standard meals at mid-range restaurants cost SGD 20-40 per person. These establishments provide a more diverse menu and often include local and international cuisines.
• Fine Dining: For a fine dining experience, expect to spend upwards of SGD 100 per person. Renowned restaurants like Marina Bay Sands and various Michelin-starred eateries offer exquisite culinary experiences.

Whether dining on a budget or indulging in luxury, you can find plenty of options that cater to your tastes and wallet.

Attraction Costs

Singapore offers an abundance of attractions ranging from free parks to paid experiences:

• Free Attractions: Visit places like the Singapore Botanic Gardens, East Coast Park, Sentosa Island beaches, and enjoy the nightly light show at Marina Bay Sands for free.
• Gardens by the Bay: SGD 10-35
• Singapore Zoo: SGD 20-49
• Universal Studios Singapore: Starting from SGD 75
• SEA Aquarium: Starting from SGD 44

Look out for bundled tickets and discount passes to save on entry costs.

Daily Budget Recommendation

Based on different travel styles, here’s a rough estimate of daily costs in Singapore:

• Budget Traveler: SGD 60-80 per day, including hostel accommodation, street food, and public transport.
• Mid-Range Traveler: SGD 150-200 per day, including mid-range hotel, dining at local restaurants, and occasional taxis.
• Luxury Traveler: SGD 300+ per day, including luxury hotel stays, fine dining, and private transportation.

Tips for Saving Money in Singapore

Traveling in Singapore can be affordable with a few money-saving tips:

• Use Public Transport: The MRT and buses are efficient and cost-effective ways to get around.
• Eat at Hawker Centers: These offer delicious and affordable meals, allowing you to taste local flavors without high costs.
• Visit Free Attractions: Singapore has a range of beautiful parks, gardens, and free shows that are worth exploring.
• Buy Attraction Passes: Consider purchasing multi-attraction passes to save money on entry fees.
• Stay in Budget Accommodations: Book hostels, budget hotels, or Airbnb for affordable stays.

By smartly planning your trip and making informed choices, Singapore can be enjoyed on any budget, providing endless memories and experiences without causing financial stress. Happy travels!

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Is Singapore Expensive & How To Travel On A Budget

Editorial Note: Earth Curious contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Singapore is a beautiful tropical island paradise filled with endless attractions, cool experiences, gorgeous architecture, and picturesque cityscape scenery.

One could go from standing on the 57 th floor of the new-aged Marina Bay Sands Resort and admiring city views, to watching the sun set over Singapore at one of the plethora of beautiful beaches on Sentosa Island, all in a single day.

Or how about exploring Gardens by the Bay, a sprawling horticultural wonderland home to over 1.5 million plants and highly decorative floral displays. I guarantee you’ve never seen anything quite like it!       

I’d say that a week touring Singapore is enough to let you experience the region’s most popular things to do, but as one of the world’s most expensive cities, I get it, the burning question for potential tourists like yourself remains: Is Singapore Expensive? Well, let’s take a look …

Singapore is Not for the Budget Traveler

Let’s get straight to it—Singapore is not a place I recommend for the budget traveler. Sure, you can get away with staying in cheap hostels, solely riding public transportation, and maybe, just maybe, grubbing on inexpensive street food in China Town, but things like attractions, experiences, and nightlife, which we can assume you’re primarily there for, are on the expensive side of things.

For instance, let’s take a look at what you’ll spend to enjoy Singapore’s most popular attractions ($1 SGD = $0.71 USD as of 9/2022):

• Marina Bay Sand’s SkyPark Observatory: $25 SGD = $18 USD
• Gardens By the Bay: $50 SGD = $36 USD
• Singapore Zoo: $48 SGD = $34 USD
• Singapore Flyer: $33 SGD = $23 USD
• Universal Studios Singapore: $66 SGD = $47 USD
• S.E.A. Aquarium: $41 SGD = $29 USD
• Singapore River Cruise: $25 SGD = $18 USD

As you can see, you’ll need to dig into your pockets if you plan on truly living your best life in the region, and those posted are only a few of the can’t miss things to do in Singapore.

Add that to the price of getting around town, eating, buying drinks, and accommodation, and you’ve got one pretty nifty dent in your checking account.   

Can You Still Explore Singapore on a Budget?

Let’s say that even on a tight budget, you’re still very adamant about visiting Singapore. You won’t take no for an answer, and previous budgeted international trips you’ve taken have proved to be successful. So, in that case, what are some tips on how to survive Singapore on a budget?

Hostel & Food

You’ll want to find a cheap hostel in China Town Singapore. Not only is it a fantastic location that’s near prominent attractions, but it’s also safe, heavily visited by foreign tourists, and the one of the best places to find cheap food on a daily basis.    

Transportation

Buy a Singapore Tourist Pass (STP) for unlimited rides between the city’s public transportation, including the subway and bus. You can purchase 1 day pass at S$10, 2 days at S$16, or 3 days S$20.

Things to Do & See

My top recommendations for things to do in Singapore on a budget are hanging around Marina Bay—no seriously, it’s a place where you can find a cozy spot and sightsee for hours on end—visiting Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observatory for a beautiful bird’s eye view of the city, exploring the gorgeous floral displays at Gardens by the Bay, and taking a dip in ocean at the sandy beaches of Sentosa Island.

There are plenty of free things to do in Singapore, too, like exploring the Botanic Gardens, stopping by historic temples and mosque, and going on nature hikes.

What Should You Do?

Singapore can get expensive when it comes to tourist travel. With the island overflowing with highly-rated attractions and things to do, it’s better to arrive with enough “make it rain” money to explore the best of the best the region has to offer. And that, dear reader, is how you create the most memorable trips. Safe and happy travels!   

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How Much Does a Trip to Singapore Cost?

Marianne Rogerson

May 5, 2023

It’s known as one of the most expensive cities in the world but just how much does a trip to Singapore cost ? We dive in to find out.

Planning a trip to Singapore and wondering about the costs involved? Read on!

Singapore is one of the most popular travel destinations in Southeast Asia, but it is also known as one of the most expensive countries in the world. 

The cost of travel in Singapore can obviously vary significantly depending on whether you’re eyeing luxurious hotels or budget-friendly hostels, dining at hawker stalls or experiencing fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants.

To help you plan your trip better, we’ll cover aspects such as accommodation, dining, transportation, and activities, ensuring you can prepare your budget accordingly.

Whether you’re a hostel and street food kind of guy or a luxury hotel and fine-dining gal, you’ll see that there’s something for everyone’s taste buds and wallet. 

So, let’s take a look at the costs and experiences you are likely to encounter to help you make the most out of your stay in this diverse, exciting destination.

Looking to save money? Check out our article about planning a visit to Singapore on a Budget .

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a booking using these links, we may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

Got questions? Come join our Singapore Travel Tips Facebook group . It’s the perfect place to ask questions and get inspiration for your trip!

Table of Contents

Trip to Singapore Cost Overview

A trip to Singapore can vary greatly in cost depending on your budget and preferences.

For a low-cost visit, you may spend as little as $40 per day (not including accommodation). This would require you to eat local food in hawker centres, travel by public transport and avoid the most expensive attractions. 

In contrast, a luxury trip could have you spending over $400 per day if you choose to eat in high-end restaurants and visit the most popular attractions. 

The most popular attractions, such as Universal Studios Singapore , can cost as much as $180 per person if you opt for the Express pass. Conversely, you can wander around the Botanic Gardens for free. 

It’s difficult to give an overall average cost, as how much money you spend is dependent on a lot of factors. We break these down below to help you put together your Singapore travel budget. 

Singapore Dollar

The currency used in Singapore is the Singapore Dollar (SGD, or S$). All prices in this article are in SGD. 

Cost of Accommodation in Singapore

Whilst you can find some of the world’s most expensive and luxury hotels in Singapore , there are plenty of other budget options too.

Average accommodation costs are as follows (based on a per-night cost).

• Hostel – $25-50
• Budget hotel – $80-100
• Mid-range hotel – $200-350
• Luxury hotel – $400 + (the sky’s the limit!)

Price is also variable on location and number of guests in the room. You will find that hotels in the popular areas of Marina Bay, Orchard Road and Sentosa command higher rates than those in budget-friendly neighbourhoods such as Little India and Bugis.

Read more about the best areas to stay in Singapore here.

Other tips for working out your accommodation budget include:

• Hotel room rates in Singapore are subject to a 10% service charge and 8% GST. These surcharges are often not quoted in hotel prices, so be sure to check.
• Check if breakfast is included. Hotel breakfast buffets tend to be expensive.
• Most Singapore hotels come with free WiFi, but check that it is included. 
• Choosing a hotel close to an MRT station will mean taking less taxis. 

Cost of Transport in Singapore

Singapore offers a well-connected and efficient public transport system. Transport costs are low too, making it easy for you to explore the city without blowing your daily budget.

You can read our full guide to Singapore Public Transport here.

The most popular mode of public transport in Singapore with tourists is the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit). This efficient train system is affordable, with fares calculated based on distance. 

• For trips under 5km, you can expect to pay under S$1. 
• Longer trips with station changes may cost up to $2.50.

MRT services typically operate from 5:30 am until midnight, with peak hours occurring between 7 am and 9 am. Announcements and signage in the MRT are in English, so you shouldn’t have any difficulty navigating the system.

Another option for getting around is the public buses. Singapore’s bus network is extensive, covering most parts of the city, and bus fares are comparable to the MRT.

Taxi / Grab

Taxis are also surprisingly cheap in Singapore. All taxis run on meters, so you don’t need to worry about negotiating a fare or encountering dishonest drivers.

Note that taxi surcharges of 25-50% apply at certain times of day, and there are also airport surcharges. Booking fees also apply if you use an app to call out a cab. 

Download the Grab and Gojek apps (similar to Uber) to compare costs with taxis and private hire pick-ups. You will often find that taxis are cheaper and can also be booked using Grab.  

As an idea you can expect to pay around:

• Taxi from the airport – $25-40 depending on the time of day.
• Taxi across town – $5-10

Paying for public transport

You can use a debit or credit card to tap on and off public transport. Note that foreign-issued cards can incur extra charges though, so if you plan on using a lot of public transport, it can work out cheaper to get an EZ-Link card. You can read more about this in our guide to public transport in Singapore .

Singapore Tourist Pass

Another option for visitors is the Singapore Tourist Pass , a special EZ-link card that offers tourists unlimited travel on buses and the MRT. 

These are available as 1-3 day passes, and cost as follows. Note that costs are inclusive of a $10 refundable deposit:

• 1 day: $22 
• 2 days: $29
• 3 days: $34 

2-day and 3-day cards must be used on consecutive days. 

Another option is the 3-day SG Tourist Pass, which costs $29 and doesn’t require a deposit.

I advise thinking about how much you are planning to use public transport before purchasing one, as they can work out more expensive if you don’t use several trains or buses in a day.

Cost of Food and Drink in Singapore

Food in Singapore varies from cheap hawker meals to very expensive Michelin-starred dining and everything in between. 

Fine dining in Singapore is expensive (especially those with a coveted Michelin Star or with a celebrity chef to their name), but beyond that, you can find a large choice of reasonably priced restaurants.

Here’s what you can expect to pay:

• Hawker centre meal – $5-10
• Mid-range restaurant – $25-50 per person (not including alcohol)
• Luxury restaurant – $100+ per person (not including alcohol)
• Michelin-starred degustation – $300+ (not including alcohol)

Hawker Centres & Food Courts

For a more budget-friendly option, visiting hawker centres in Singapore is highly recommended. Not only will you find the best local food in Singapore, but you will also save those dollars.

These food havens offer a wide variety of food stalls selling local dishes, with prices ranging from S$4 to S$10 per dish. Some popular hawker centres include Tiong Bahru Market, Lau Pa Sat, and Maxwell Food Centre.

Water in Singapore

The good news is that when it comes to drinking water in Singapore, tap water is completely safe to drink. Instead of spending money on bottled water, which can cost around S$4 for a 1-litre bottle, you can simply refill your own bottle from the tap, saving both money and the environment.

Alcohol in Singapore

For those who enjoy a tipple, it’s worth noting that alcohol is expensive in Singapore. If you want to indulge while in Singapore, consider visiting bars during happy hour to take advantage of discounts and promotions, or enjoying a beer at a hawker centre.

The average price you can expect to pay:

• Beer – $15 per pint in a bar or $6-7 per bottle in a hawker centre
• Wine (glass) – $12-18 house wine in a restaurant
• Wine (bottle) – $60+ house wine in a restaurant
• Cocktails – $20+
• Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel Long Bar – $37

Cost of Attractions and Activities in Singapore

The main attractions in Singapore tend to come with high ticket prices, so if you are planning to visit a number of them, you will need to budget accordingly. 

You can often get discounted attraction tickets via Klook and you can also sometimes buy combo tickets for a number of attractions for a discounted price. 

Here are some examples of attraction and tour prices:

• Singapore Zoo – $48 (adult) / $33 (child)
• Gardens by the Bay Cloud Forest & Flower Dome -$53 (adult) / $40 (child)
• Hop on Hop off bus – $38 (adult) / $30 (child)
• Universal Studios Singapore – $82 (adult) / $61 (child)
• National Musuem of Singapore – $15 (adult) / $10 (concession)
• Food tour – $120 per person

Combo tickets examples :

• The Klook Pass allows you to bundle 2-10 attractions at discounted rates
• The Mandai Pass allows you to combine the Singapore Zoo, River Wonders and Night Safari at discounted rates.
• The Resorts World Sentosa pass gives you discounted entry to Universal Studios, the SEA Aquarium and Adventure Cove Waterpark.
• The Sentosa Fun Pass gives you discounted entry to various Sentosa attractions.

Free Attractions

Despite its reputation for being expensive, there are several free attractions in Singapore to discover. 

The iconic Gardens by the Bay, known for its impressive Supertree Grove and light shows, cost nothing to enter, although some areas, such as the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, have an entrance fee. There are plenty of other beautiful parks in Singapore to visit. 

It also costs nothing to explore the cultural neighbourhoods of Chinatown , Little India , and Kampong Glam . These areas feature picturesque architecture, delicious food, and vibrant markets.

Here are some of our favourite free activities in Singapore :

• Gardens by the Bay (except the OCBC Skyway and conservatories)
• Botanic Gardens (except the Orchid Garden)
• Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum
• Fort Siloso
• MacRitchie Reservoir & Treetop Walk
• Changi Museum
• Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
• Southern Ridges Walk

Cheap Flights to Singapore

Singapore’s Changi Airport is one of the world’s busiest transport hubs and so you have a huge choice of air carriers to choose from when flying to Singapore.

Singapore Airlines is one of the best airlines in the world, but it is also an expensive option. If you are flying in from a neighbouring Asian country, you can also take advantage of the variety of budget airlines offering flights to Singapore.

I recommend using Skyscanner to compare all the available options. You can also use it to look for the cheapest days to fly and set up price alerts to receive and email if the price changes.

Keep an eye on airline sales and promotions, and consider travelling during off-peak seasons to find the best deals on flights.

Travel Insurance for Singapore

Yes, travel insurance will add to your travel costs, but do not be tempted to skip it. 

Medical and hospital expenses in Singapore are very expensive, so I highly recommend having medical insurance when you travel to Singapore. It’s really not worth the risk. 

If you are travelling from Australia, we always use CoverMore for our travel insurance. If you are travelling from elsewhere, we suggest you look at WorldNomads.

Tips for Saving Money in Singapore

While visiting Singapore can be expensive, there are several ways to save money during your trip. By following these tips, you’ll be able to stretch your budget and get the most out of your Singapore adventure for less.

• Use public transport. The MRT is cheap, clean and efficient and will get you to most places you need to get to.
• Eat in hawker centres . Eating out in restaurants can be expensive, but it’s easy to get a cheap meal in a hawker centre and you can find some great local food here.
• Drink in hawker centres. Drinking a beer in a bar will set you back around $15 per pint. A bottle of beer in a hawker centre will cost just $6-7.
• Look out for happy hours. There are always happy hours advertised in bars around Singapore. Look for 1-for-1 deals to keep your costs down.
• Look for lunch deals. Some high-end restaurants offer great value lunch deals. This way, you can try Michelin-star dining at a fraction of the usual cost.
• Don’t buy bottled water. The tap water in Singapore is safe to drink. You need to drink a lot of water in Singapore to stay hydrated in the humidity. Bring a reusable water bottle and save up to $10 per day on water!
• Buy discounted tickets. Booking ahead and using websites such as Klook can help you save money on attraction tickets.
• Save on roaming charges by buying a Singtel Tourist SIM card and pick it up at Changi airport when you get here. This costs just $12 SGD and gives you 100GB 4G data, 500 mins of local calls and 30 mins of IDD calls over 14 days!
• Use free WiFi . Lots of attractions, hotels, restaurants and shopping malls have free WiFi which will help keep your data usage down. 
• Download the Grab and Gojek apps and compare costs between ride shares and taxis at the time of booking.

How to Plan a Trip to Singapore

9 best hawker centres in singapore.

I've lived in the world's most expensive city for 20 years. There are 5 ways you can save money as a tourist here.

• Last year, Singapore and Zurich were named the world's most expensive cities to live in.
• There are a handful of ways tourists can save money in Singapore, from dining to hotel picks. 
• One way tourists can stretch their dollars is by eating at hawker centers outside the city center.

Spending time in Singapore can get expensive. In 2023, it tied with Zurich as the world's most expensive city , per the Economist Intelligence Unit.

But there are plenty of affordable — and sometimes free — ways for both transit passengers and Singapore tourists to explore the city.

Travelers on layovers can take advantage of Changi Airport, voted the world's best airport last year by Skytrax. There are gardens to explore and even a movie theater that shows free screenings in Terminal 3. And those with more time between flights can hop on a free two-hour bike ride or three-hour guided tours of different neighborhoods across the city.

After living in Singapore for over two decades , I've learned that there are also ways for tourists spending a few days in the city to stretch their dollars when dining and sightseeing.

Here are five more ways to save money as a tourist in Singapore.

1. Eat at hawker centers outside the city center.

Local food is one of the few things you can still get for cheap in Singapore. Even popular dishes at the city's most frequented hawker centers — open-air food courts — rarely cost over $5.

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But travelers who want to stretch their budgets further can visit hawker centers in residential neighborhoods. For example, a plate of chicken rice costs around 5 Singapore dollars, or $3.75, at Maxwell Food Center in Chinatown. At Changi Village Hawker Center in eastern Singapore, it can cost as little as SG$3.

Eating out at less-touristy hawker centers also unveils a different side of Singapore. The skyscrapers in the city center turn into towering blocks of public housing apartments , where the vibe is more laidback than what you'll find in the city center.

2. Substitute your latte for a cup of kopi.

Coffee at trendy cafés or popular chains in Singapore can be pricey — it can cost upwards of SG$6. Many locals start their mornings with kopi instead, which is roasted by hand and strained with a sock.

Kopi is served at hawker centers and traditional coffee shops. Known for its deep, aromatic flavors, a cup of kopi costs just SG$1.20 on average — and can be prepared in more than 15 different ways.

A breakfast set — including the kopi, two slices of toast with coconut jam, and soft-boiled eggs — can be found for SG$3 if you steer clear of the tourist spots.

3. Skip the touristy beach clubs and explore the other coasts.

Many tourists in Singapore flock to Sentosa — the offshore island known for its glitzy resorts and beach clubs. But the prices of food and beverages are often inflated. A bottle of Corona at Tanjong Beach Club, a popular spot on the resort island, costs SG$16 . In comparison, a bottle of Corona at a local convenient store is often under SG$4. Despite Singapore being known for enforcing many laws , alcohol consumption on the beach is not one of them, so a six-pack can be enjoyed with a picnic.

Those who aren't looking for BYOB can visit a beach club at Changi Beach in eastern Singapore. Stella Lounge — a beach club in the area — sells beers from the tap for as little as SG$13. There, you can also find dozens of different food options under SG$10 at the nearby hawker centers.

4. Spend the night at a love hotel instead of splurging on a luxury hotel.

I've found love hotels — that offer rooms for couples to rent by the hour — to be the best value for money rental in Singapore. A night's stay at one of the most popular chains, Hotel 81 Chinatown, costs as little as SG$95, and they're typically clean, spacious, and centrally located. Unlike most hostels, love hotels typically offer a private bathroom.

5. Check out the free galleries at Gillman Barracks and NUS Museum.

Many of Singapore's most popular attractions — like Universal Studios Singapore and the viewing deck at the Marina Bay Sands — are pricey, costing SG$62 and SG$32 respectively.

But there are many things you can do if you're on a budget. Admission is free at art galleries and museums like Gillman Barracks and NUS Museum. Free concerts are often performed outdoors at the Esplanade, a theatre complex in the city-state's downtown area. The Botanic Gardens, near the Orchard Road shopping district, offers free guided tours and there's no cost to check out the light and water show at Marina Bay Sands.

Watch: Singapore has the most delicious street food in the world

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Is Singapore Expensive? 2024 Money Guide to the Garden City

The unique city-state at the extreme tip of Southeast Asia’s Malay Peninsula is a thriving financial hub known for its safety, conservatism, incredible contemporary architecture, and a world-class airport. Yet, one thing Singapore is not known for is budget getaways .

From the futuristic Gardens by the Bay to the majestic Marina Sands hotel and the tropical Sentosa Island, Singapore offers endless excitement, but you might just need deeper pockets to enjoy it. The prosperous port is one of Asia’s economic “tigers” with one of the highest average GDPs per capita in the world, so just how expensive is Singapore?

Visiting this island puts you among more than 520,000 millionaires who call it home. Still, Singapore doesn’t have to break the bank and we’re here to show you how to navigate the island city-state with tightened purse strings. From where to stay to what to eat and avoiding excess costs in “The Fine City”, it’s all here. Let’s get into it. 

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The average cost of a holiday in Singapore

There are a thousand reasons to visit the vibrant, modern, forever-changing, and impeccably clean nation of Singapore. Wildly unique in being a sovereign island, state, and country, Singapore joins an exclusive list of exceptionally small but exceptionally rich municipalities alongside Switzerland, Qatar, Luxembourg, Monaco, and so on. 

With a GDP per capita of over $82,000 USD, it is one of the richest countries on the globe by purchasing power parity, making it an alluring place to settle and earn a living. Yet with wealth comes high taxes, expensive services, and pricey imported goods. 

Singapore constantly earns a spot near the top of lists comprising the world’s most expensive places to live, so what does this mean for your prospective holiday, and are there any ways to save? It’s true that Singapore is far more expensive than most Southeast Asian cities, especially backpacking havens like Bangkok , Hoh Chi Minh City, and Siem Reap, but you’ll find it to be largely similar in price to many western capitals, and sometimes even cheaper. 

Based on other travelers’ experiences, a seven-day trip to Singapore costs a solo visitor around $1,300 SG ($950 USD), $2,000 SG ($1,500 USD) for a couple and $4,300 SG ($3,200 USD) for a family of four. This means you should budget around $165 SG ($120 USD) per day for all your expenses, with food coming to around $40 SG ($30) for the average traveler and transport costing no more than $15 SG ($10 USD). 

This might not sound like too much, but how you spend depends on what sort of traveler you are. Staying in budget accommodation like the city’s many hostels or HDB flatshares and eating in Hawker centers will help you save, while waterfront apartments in upmarket areas and the Central Business District restaurants can really break the bank. 

Before we get into all that, let’s take a look at some daily expenses you can expect from a vacation to Singapore:

Is Singapore expensive to visit? Getting There

So you’ve made the easy decision of visiting Singapore, but the first hurdle to cross is how to get there, and if the journey will be feasible for you. This all depends on where you’re coming from, but your flights aren’t the only cost affected by this. 

Singapore’s Changi Airport is one of Asia’s best-connected airports and is often deemed the most impressive in the world. With the tallest indoor waterfall on the planet and an endless list of restaurants, shops, and attractions, the airport is a luxury lifestyle hub and a great introduction to what Singapore has to offer. 

You won’t get to experience the best of the airport until you leave, but it can provide endless entertainment for layovers with swimming pools, spas, cinemas, a gym, gardens, and even places to sleep. But you’re probably wondering if flying into the most famous airport in the world comes at a higher cost. 

The truth is, flying into Singapore is no more expensive than flying into any other capital city, it just all depends on the distance. You can fly from London with a return for $550 SG ($400 USD), depending on the time of year, New York for $825 SG ($600 USD) return, despite the distance, and Perth in Western Australia, which is just five hours by air from the island, for as little as $400 SG ($300 USD). There is also regular air traffic into Singapore from most European countries, the Middle East, other regions in Australia, and North America.  

Singapore is also connected by train to Malaysia , Johor Bahru, and Kuala Lumpur, with a route from Bangkok connecting in the Malaysian capital. You can also drive from Malaysia or take the public bus which runs from 5 am until midnight every day. The five-hour sleeper train from Kuala Lumpar costs $80 SG ($58 USD) for a regular cabin, and $50 SG ($36 USD) for children, while the bus costs as little as $20 SG ($15 USD) and takes six hours. 

These costs are surprisingly reasonable for the distance and the luxury associated with Singapore, although the service in Kuala Lumpur is likely not to be up to the same standard. However, there are 37 nationalities that require a Visa to enter Singapore for any length of time. These comprise much of Africa, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe, including Egypt, Belarus, Ukraine, Moldova, Morocco, India, Kosovo, Armenia, and Jordan.

Visas can be expensive and come with multiple processing fees. Travelers from the UK, North America, Australia, and Western Europe tend to not require a Visa for stays less than 90 days, but you will need a special stay permit if you plan to be in Singapore for longer than three months.  

Accommodation Prices in Singapore

After travel, accommodation is the next big cost to consider. When it comes to Singapore, this is where prices can soar. You can always find a good deal if you book far in advance and track the market. Singapore is also home to a number of hostels that tourists can sometimes overlook with all the flashy and modern high-rise hotels. Don’t be afraid of budget accommodation and look for vacation rentals outside the upscale Marina Bay and Sentosa Island. 

For a well-reviewed hotel in the mid-range price category, travelers will be looking at $160 SG ($116 USD) to $250 SG ($182 USD) a night. While vacation rentals in the city range from $50 SG ($43 USD) to $260 SG ($190 USD), averaging at around $105 SG ($76 USD) a night. On the other hand, you can still get a taste of contemporary Singapore in budget accommodation. 

Like other highly-modern countries such as Japan, Singapore is known for its micro-apartments, and capsule hostels are particularly popular with shoestring travelers. They might seem a bit claustrophobic, but they’re a bucket list stay for anyone. These luminescent sleeping pods start from around $50 SG ($36 USD) a night, and backpacker hostels are slightly cheaper with dorms from $44 SG ($32 USD).  

Whatever your budget, check out some of these different accommodations options in Singapore to suit every traveler:

OSS Backpacker Hostel ($) – Small, friendly dorms and a laid-back traveler atmosphere for just $42 SG ($30 USD) a night in the scenic Lavender district.

Galaxy Pods Capsule Hotel Boat Quay ($) – Right in the center of Boat Quay, these futuristic space pods come equipped with double beds, mounted televisions, surround sound, and air conditioning, just 200 meters from the Statue of Sir Stamford Raffles. Prices start from $80 SG ($58 USD) a night.   

JEN Singapore Shangri La ($$) – The best hotel in this price range, the Shangri La is an established hotel group, offering deluxe rooms, a private pool, and a world-class restaurant in the heart of Ochardgateway. Prices start from $170 SG ($124 USD) a night.

Village Hotel Bugis by Far East ($$) – Clean and convenient four-star accommodation in a towering high-rise in Kampong Glam. Offering its own pool terrace and great metro access, superior rooms start from $200 SG ($145 USD) a night.   

ParkRoyal Collection Pickering ($$$) – Right in the heart of Singapore’s bustling Chinatown, this luxury five-star hotel is worth the splurge. With a wellness center, outdoor pool, rooftop terrace, and a 300-meter garden skywalk, ParkRoyal embraces the Singaporean way. Deluxe doubles start at $440 SG ($320 USD) a night.  

Is Singapore expensive for food and drink?

Singapore is well-known for the luxury lifestyle it sells and its upscale neighborhoods offering all manner of amenities. If you’re planning to eat in fancy restaurants, bars, and hotels like many visitors and business personnel choose to do in Singapore, your vacation can get expensive very quickly. But what people often overlook is that Singapore also has its fair share of local food courts and what is called, Hawker centers, which can really help you save on food and drink. 

You’ll need around $40 SG ($30 USD) a day to spend on food, based on the spending habits of other travelers. A three-course meal can cost upwards of $50 SG ($36 USD), but you can dine at an inexpensive restaurant for $15 SG ($11 USD) per person, with a good meal in a Hawker center costing as little as $6 SG ($4.30 USD) and another $6 SG ($4.30 USD) for a big bottle of beer.  

Alcohol can cost a little more as it is heavily taxed and rarely cheap anywhere in the city. A drink at a bar costs between $12-$20 SG ($9-15 USD) but happy hour rates are cheaper and backpacker hostels will have plenty of these. Wine is especially pricey and you should expect to pay close to $10 SG ($7 USD) for a glass in a restaurant. 

When is the best time to visit Singapore?

Singapore, with its warm tropical climate, is a year-round destination. Still, with two distinct seasons, you’ll want to avoid the rain but also the peak prices if possible. 

The dry season runs from February to April and is when Singapore experiences the least amount of rain, lowest humidity, and the most sunshine. May onwards sees heavy rainfall sweep into Singapore, but this also makes July and August the cheapest months to visit as tourism is at its lowest.

If you want the best of both worlds, consider visiting between December and February, and April to June, for plenty of sunshine, less rain, and better deals. 

Singapore on a Budget: Top 7 Money-Saving Tips

• Know the law – Singapore is known as “The Fine City”, with so many financial penalties given out for offenses that western governments turn a blind eye to. Make sure you observe what people are doing around you, but bear in mind you can’t litter, smoke, or eat in public in most places in the city. 
• Don’t buy bottled water – The tap water in Singapore is of exceptional quality. Don’t waste money on the expensive imported stuff and get a reusable receptacle. 
• Don’t tip – Tipping isn’t impolite, but it’s not necessary for Singapore. Your bill will almost always have a Goods and Services tax included and salaries for waiting staff are pretty high in Singapore. Keep your extra change and avoid leaving gratuity . 
• Make the most of free attractions – From the Botanic Gardens to the Punggol Waterway, temples, and statues, there’s a lot to do in Singapore that will cost you nothing. Do your research and don’t miss out on free sites. 
• Eat at food courts and Hawker centers – A common misconception about Singapore is that it is all fancy restaurants and zero street food. While street stalls are banned, food courts and Hawker centers are great budgets, and local alternatives with meals starting from $5 SG.  
• Skip the taxis – Taxis are surprisingly inexpensive in Singapore but don’t let this distract you from the fast and efficient public transport system that is even cheaper. There are metro stops everywhere so jump on the MRT whenever you can.
• Minimize drinking – Alcohol is heavily taxed in Singapore and the drinking culture isn’t huge. Make the most of a chance to detox and do as the locals do – cap your nights at one or two drinks. 

Is Singapore Expensive? Our Verdict

It might be ranked the second-most expensive place in the world, and accommodation, food, and world-renowned attractions can definitely set you back, but there are ways to save in Singapore. Booking in advance and planning your trip extensively will allow you to cut spending corners and it won’t break the bank. From hostels to public transport, local food, and free attractions, there are tons to do on a budget, and as long as you familiarise yourself with local customs and law, there’s no reason for any unexpected costs to jump out on you in Singapore. 

For more than 11 years, Joe has worked as a freelance travel writer. His writing and explorations have brought him to various locations, including the colonial towns of Mexico, the bustling chowks of Mumbai, and the majestic Southern Alps of New Zealand. When he's not crafting his next epic blog post on the top Greek islands or French ski resorts, he can often be found engaging in his top two hobbies of surfing and hiking.

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Surviving Singapore on a Budget

10 Tips for Saving Money in Singapore

Theresa Chiechi / TripSavvy 

Believe it or not, you can experience Singapore on a budget! There's no need to sacrifice meals or sell plasma to explore Southeast Asia's interesting little city-island-country.

Singapore has always been the bane of backpackers and budget travelers . With a nefarious reputation of being expensive, made even worse by the numerous opportunities to be ​fined , many travelers in Southeast Asia give Singapore only a few days or opt to skip it altogether.

Despite having lots to offer (including the best airport in the world), Singapore's reputation on the Banana Pancake Trail is more or less all about shopping and as a great layover destination. You don't have to become Singa-poor to enjoy a few days or longer in this exciting multinational city! Follow these tips for saving money while in Singapore.

Get a CEPAS/EZ-LINK Card

Many travelers make the mistake of not purchasing Singapore's excellent transportation card when they first arrive. Instead, they pay for each bus and train journey which quickly adds up.

At train stations, an EZ-Link card costs S$12 and includes S$7 worth of credit. You can also purchase and add credit to cards at 7-Eleven minimarts for S$10 (includes S$5 in credit). Having an EZ-Link card will also save you a lot of time waiting in queues at ticket machines in MRT stations.

The EZ-Link card can be used on the LRT and MRT trains, along with the excellent public bus system. By using an EZ-Link card, you pay only for the distance traveled, rather than a flat fare like everyone else (drivers don't give change).

Tip: Don't forget to tap your card on the reader as you exit the bus or you'll pay more than you should have!

Don't Buy the Singapore Tourist Pass

The Singapore Tourist Pass is similar to the EZ-Link card, however, it allows for unlimited rides during a one, two, or three-day stay. The Tourist Passes aren't cheap: A one-day pass costs S$10 plus an additional S$10 that is refunded after returning the card. You would need to take four or five rides on the MRT per day just to break even!

Unless you really get a thrill out of riding trains around the city (they are nice), chances are that you'll spend most of your time walking around the sights, inside massive shopping malls, exploring world-class museums , and less on the train.

Drink the Water

Unlike other countries in ​ Southeast Asia , the tap water in Singapore is safe to drink. This is good news, as a bottle of water can cost around S$2 at minimarts!

If you don't carry a water bottle, buy a small bottle of water then refill it for free at hotels or from the tap.

Eat in Food Halls

Singapore is blessed with some of the best food courts, food halls, and hawker street stalls found anywhere in Asia. Yes, it is safe to eat street food! In fact, enjoying the street food is a quintessential part of experiencing Singapore.

Quality is often even a notch above the street food typically found in places such as Thailand. A delicious meal can be enjoyed for between S$4–6 in food halls. You can eat for under S$3 if you're in the mood for noodles soup. The food courts found in posh malls and at the bottoms of nearly every skyscraper are priced slightly higher than standalone food centers. Check out the sprawling food center in Chinatown, or the cheap-yet-delightful Lau Pa Sat food center near the Raffles MRT stop .

Don't Drink or Smoke

Thanks to excessive taxation, either of these two vices will simply destroy your budget in Singapore.

A pack of Marlboro cigarettes costs over S$13, and drinking is terribly expensive even by U.S. or European standards. Entry into nightclubs can be up to S$30 which includes one watery drink. A rambunctious night out could cost you as much as the average night out in Ibiza.

Budget travelers craving a social atmosphere outside of hostels often opt to buy drinks from the 7-Eleven located at the end of Clarke Quay, then hang out around the waterfront. Just look for the pedestrian bridge covered with people lounging around.

Note: Electronic cigarettes are actually illegal in Singapore. Don't cross the border with one!

Enjoy the Parks

Although Singapore has a reputation for concrete, the city is blessed with an excellent park matrix with green spaces that spider through the city. Elevated bike trails and skywalks provide excellent views.

The parks and skyline views can be enjoyed for free. Take advantage of the complex, interconnecting network that links parks and different neighborhoods to each other.

Take Advantage of Freebies

Savvy travelers can find art displays, public performances, and street performers along the riverfront, esplanade, and city center. There are almost always options for free entertainment—particularly on weekends.

Entrance to museums in Singapore is expensive, however, several days or evenings a month the entrance fee is ​waived for special exhibitions. Check at the counter and inside of the many free attractions magazines for promotion dates.

A number of tourist passes are available that provide discounted entrance fees at numerous museums and attractions. Most of these passes are only a bargain if you intend to do a lot of indoor sightseeing.

Only Shop in the Right Places

Singapore has more shopping malls than you could explore in months. Even ultra-modern Changi Airport is practically one big mall which happens to have the occasional airplane land or take off.

Many of these malls are ridiculously expensive. Instead, do your souvenir and incidental shopping in cheap shops and tourist markets around Chinatown and Little India. Don't forget to negotiate !

Purchase your snacks, drinks, and toiletries from the big supermarkets located under many of the big malls rather than in mini-marts. VivoMart, beneath VivoCity—the largest mall in Singapore—regularly has food and drink specials.

Finally Give Couchsurfing a Try

Accommodation in Singapore is expensive. A bunk bed in a crowded hostel dorm costs S$20 or more. A night in a modest hotel may require you to give blood. Many travelers have to opt for hostels over hotels in Singapore just to cut costs.

Couch surfing with one of the many expats living in Singapore is a great way to sleep for free, and also gives you a local's insight into how to enjoy Singapore on a budget.

Tip: If you're squeamish about staying with a stranger, search for accommodation around Little India where hostels and hotels tend to be slightly cheaper.

Don't Get Busted

Locals joke that Singapore is a "fine" city—which obviously has two meanings. Although you rarely see police officers around the city, rest assured that many people do get fined here for seemingly innocuous activities; the fine-payment kiosks dotted around for convenience are a sure indication.

Although you would have to be unlucky to get caught, be aware of the following:

• The number one reason to get fined in Singapore is for not using marked crosswalks.
• Seatbelts are required when in a car; the driver cannot use a mobile phone while moving.
• Riding a bike on pedestrian-only paths, especially near the river, is forbidden.
• Chewing gum, snacks, and drinks are not permitted on the MRT trains or public transportation.
• Electronic cigarettes and "vaping" are illegal.
• Technically, failing to flush a public toilet is illegal.
• Spitting will get you a big fine in Singapore.
• Feeding pigeons in the park is an S$500 fine!

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Is Singapore Expensive?

• Is Singapore expensive?

How expensive is Singapore?

• How expensive is a weekend trip to Singapore?
• How expensive is a one week trip to Singapore?

Is it expensive to backpack in Singapore?

• Are hotels expensive in Singapore?
• How expensive are activities in Singapore?

Is food expensive in Singapore?

Is transportation expensive in singapore, is singapore expensive to visit.

Singapore is a moderately priced destination with an average daily cost of $156. Compared to the rest of Asia, it is a very expensive place to visit. It's ranked in the top 10% of cities in Asia for its travel prices, comparable to places like other cities in the country.

On average, visitors spend about $156 per day when visiting Singapore (U.S. Dollars). Two travelers together would spend an average of $311 per day. Prices vary dramatically by travel style and length of trip, but if you stay at moderately priced hotels, eat at affordable restaurants, and use public transportation when possible, you can expect to stay close to this budget. See more travel costs for Singapore here .

How expensive is a weekend trip (three days) to Singapore?

A weekend trip to Singapore costs about $467 per person on average, based on the previous expenses of other travelers. This includes accommodation, sightseeting activities, transportation, food, and nightlife. For two people, a weekend trip costs $934.

How expensive is a one week (7-day) trip to Singapore?

Based on the travel expenses of others, a one week trip to Singapore costs around $1,090 on average, per person. This includes food, sightseeing, local transportation, accommodation, and nightlife. For two people, a one week trip costs $2,180.

With more than 40 hostels in the area, Singapore is a popular backpacker destination for travelers looking to stay on a tight budget and have a fun time along the way. Here, hostels cost an average of $32 per night for a dorm bed, with private rooms being more expensive. (See hostel prices in Singapore here .) It's also common to see a wide range in prices, as the cheapest hostels here cost $18, but the most expensive can be more than $65 per night.

Here are a few sample prices from popular hostels in Singapore.

• $29 for a dorm bed at The Bohemian more details
• $19 for a dorm bed at Betel Box Backpacker Hostel more details
• $39 for a dorm bed at Wink Capsule Hostel more details

How expensive are sightseeing activities in Singapore?

Activities and things to do in Singapore can vary in price depending on the type of activity, length, and location. Below are a number of popular activities to give you an idea of what to expect when visiting. Generally, previous travelers have spent $33 per day on sightseeing activities and things to do when visiting, which is more than the country's average of $33.

• Singapore: Chinatown Hawker Food Tasting Tour Viator $ 86
• Singapore: Chinatown Hawker Food Tasting Tour: $86
• Singapore's Historic Chinatown Walking Tour with Lunch: $49
• Singapore Essential Private Walking Tour: $259
• Private Tour: Best of Singapore & Hidden Gems : $98
• Singapore: Little India Hawker Food Tasting Tour: $86
• 2-4 days in Singapore Guided Tour Pass: $130
• Morning Singapore City Tour w Gardens By The Bay Tickets: $72
• Vegetarian Culinary Adventure in Singapore: $118

Food in Singapore can vary in price depending on the restaurant and food options available. Generally, other travelers have spent $28 on food per person per day, which is more than the country's average of $28. To save money, eat at less expensive restaurants, try street food, or cook your own meals when possible.

• Singapore Chinatown Private Food Tour Viator $ 110
• Singapore Chinatown Private Food Tour: $110
• Off the Menu: Singapore Authentic Food Tour with Local Student: $118
• Full-Day Bike and Food Tour of Singapore: $204
• Zebra Urban Safari Bicycle Tour with Local Dinner and Drinks: $79
• Eat and Snap in Chinatown Walking Food Tour: $75
• Private Korean Cooking Class in Balmoral Road: $77

Exploring local transportation in Singapore shows that the price can vary greatly by the type of transportation used. On average, previous travelers have spent $11 per person per day, which is more than the country's average of $11. If you want to save money, use public transit as it's much cheaper than taxis or private drivers.

More for Singapore

If you're planning a trip to Singapore, Singapore, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Has Singapore become too expensive for tourists?

High costs may force visitors to think twice about the manicured city-state, but singapore can hype up the heartland to counter its crazy rich asians image with authentic and affordable offerings..

B, in his 30s, is one of many Singaporeans who visit Tokyo almost every year for its food, culture and cocktails. But the spike in Japan’s hotel prices means he will likely give next year’s trip a miss.

The communications professional usually pays around S$350 a night to stay at Intercontinental Tokyo, which has increased rates by about S$100 since his last trip in January. An alternative is Taiwan, he says, which is close by and cheaper.

Japan, a traveller’s darling, has no shortage of visitors. But since the post-pandemic spike in travel prices, some are turning away from expensive global cities to stretch their budget while seeing the world.

Singapore is among the casualties.

Some mainland China tourists, a market that made up one in five visitors before the pandemic, are gravitating towards other South-east Asian places such as Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam.

With the high cost of vacationing in Singapore, more may follow suit.

Crazy expensive country?

Airfares in the Asia-Pacific region were 33 per cent higher in February 2023 compared with the same month in 2019, according to booking platform Skyscanner.

And a combination of manpower shortages, inflationary pressures and high demand has driven up hotel prices in Singapore by about 9 per cent from pre-pandemic levels.

This increase is most stark in the luxury and upscale hotel segments. The former had an average room rate of $590 this January, the highest since 2008, based on data from the Singapore Tourism Board.

Here’s how this actually feels for visitors. Recently, I compiled some hotel recommendations for an Australian traveller with a budget of around $150 a night and was surprised to find that this limited me to the most compact, no-frills rooms in the Bugis area.

Even economy chain Ibis Singapore, reliable for its international standards, had to be dropped from the list as its Bencoolen branch cost upwards of $200 a night.

The issue is not just about cost, but value – why spend $150 for a 14 sq m room here when one can get a villa in Bali for the same price, as Australians are wont to do?

Want a bit more space and luxury? It costs upwards of $300 for a four- to five-star property in Orchard Road.

For hotels, the uptick is a welcome chance to recoup the losses of the past few years – and a nod to Singapore’s textbook Covid-19 recovery. A big part of the demand is driven by the many meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (Mice) that Singapore managed to woo in the aftermath of the pandemic, before other Mice hot spots such as Japan and Hong Kong reopened their borders.

Amid the current boom, it is unrealistic to expect hotels to lower their prices. But with other expenses such as taxis and attraction tickets, costs soar. During peak hour, a Grab ride from Changi Airport to central Singapore can cost as much as $50. Entrance fees to attractions such as Mandai Wildlife Parks and Universal Studios Singapore cost between $50 and $85.

No doubt there are cheaper ways to see the country. A recent vlog by a Polish and Briton duo, who survived on a budget of $50 for a day, made headlines here, with many locals lauding the travellers for sampling local cuisine. On travel blogs, other “Singapore on a budget” videos and articles abound.

But the success of such content lies in their anomaly – most tourists set aside $80 to $150 a day for food and entertainment, based on estimates from various travel sites.

And Singapore’s success in creating world-class attractions means it can never be fully satisfying as a budget destination. Folks on vacation who have spent good money to travel here want to see the best.

This means visiting iconic spots such as Gardens by the Bay ($53 for non-residents) and “that hotel shaped like a boat” popularised in the Hollywood film Crazy Rich Asians (2018). Entrance to the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck costs $32, or $98 for a family of four – pricey, considering most would not linger beyond an hour or two.

Hawker food is affordable and fantastic, but can one really eat it every day? It costs a pretty penny to dine on more upscale cuisine, such as at one of the 55 Michelin-starred restaurants here, or to enjoy Singapore’s thriving cocktail scene – all touted as prime attractions.

Before the pandemic, visitors from South America and Europe usually spent three to four days here, compared with two weeks in Bali or Phuket, says PlanTrip’s inbound travel consultant Judy Lum. Now, many have halved the duration of their Singapore leg because of high costs.

Independent travellers do the same. While on vacation in Cebu this March, I shared a long-distance taxi ride with a couple of Australian travellers in their 20s. Theirs was the classic backpacker’s template – six months in South-east Asia, including a Malaysian itinerary that showed they had done the research. Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Melaka, Taman Negara National Park and East Malaysia. My companion and I were duly impressed.

Singapore? Perhaps a two-night stop.

Value for money

Singapore is now at a crossroads. With our strong currency and travel recovery, we might model ourself after countries like Bhutan, known for its high-value, low-impact tourism. Or tiny Monaco, the second-smallest country in the world, drawing the rich and famous with its casinos, designer malls, opulent bars and clubs as well as man--made beaches.

Sounds familiar? We, too, could set our sights on ever more high-value tourists able to afford the pleasures of the Republic, a longstanding strategy of our tourism board. But it would be wise to balance this out with a tourism identity that does not alienate the everyday man.

Here’s a thought experiment. If Brand Singapore were a person, would they be someone you would want to hang out with? Are they well travelled yet down-to-earth, comfortable both in a wet market and a white tablecloth restaurant, clued in on the stories of what makes a home?

This, to me, is the sort of complex, alluring destination that would entice one to stay longer than a 24-hour transit.

Beyond tourism receipts, it shapes the impression that people have of Singapore beyond a manicured garden city.

During the pandemic, I covered a night tour of Jalan Besar that spotlighted invisible communities in a rapidly gentrifying area. We heard stories of life in rental flats and visited the “graveyard for sex workers”, a back lane near Farrer Park MRT station where older women ply the oldest trade in the book.

“I imagine future travellers on this tour, uncovering an alternative side to shiny, well-sanitised Singapore,” I wrote then.

“Certainly this is not the stuff that makes it into tourism brochures. But these, too, are stories of home, compelling to a local, and surely that must make them worth telling?”

There is a segment of people drawn to such stories in the traveller’s unending quest for authenticity.

“We never go to a Starbucks when we travel,” said a woman from the United States, one half of a couple who visited Singapore in August. It was as much a summation of her travel style as it was a point of pride.

Beyond the must-see attractions, people want to feel like they have uncovered something real. That is why tourists relish being part of local life, be it on a market tour or being invited to dine in someone’s home.

Ms Lum of PlanTrip says Singapore is alluring to customers from emerging markets such as Latin America who are won over by its safety and cleanliness. But many arrive without much knowledge of the country beyond places such as Marina Bay Sands.

In reality, the kitschy faux-Venetian sampan ride at Marina Bay Sands is as much a part of Singapore’s identity as down-home neighbourhoods like Geylang or Toa Payoh (both well showcased in local tours).

Marketing both to the world would round out the narrative of what a trip here can offer, give visitors a reason to linger, and allow them to return home with a richer understanding of our country.

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11 things to know before visiting Singapore

Mar 9, 2024 • 6 min read

Plan for your trip to Singapore with these things you should know and insider tips © Jakub Zajic / Getty Images

Singapore has a well-cultivated image of being a safe country .

Too safe perhaps for some, who balk at its infamously strict rules and fines for flouting them, and find the gleaming modern city too sanitized for their liking. Others appreciate the clean streets and manicured gardens amidst the tall buildings along with the intriguing mix of people that make up Singapore’s multifaceted culture.

As a Singaporean who’s lived here all her life (and who has always had to explain the country to fellow travelers in foreign hostel common rooms) here’s what you need to know about Singapore, its cultural landscape, and its local customs and quirks, to help you plan your trip to the Little Red Dot.

1. Singapore is small, but with lots to see and do

Compact Singapore takes less than an hour to drive from end to end but there’s a lot packed into this small country. For a first-time visitor, three to four days is usually sufficient to see the main highlights and get a feel of the top things to do in Singapore . 

If you’re really short on time, plan a layover with at least 5.5 hours and you can join one of three free transit tours organized by the excellent Changi Airport for a quick taster of what the country has to offer.

2. Pack for the tropics

Practically located on the equator, expect hot tropical weather ranging from 25 to 35ºC (77 to 95ºF) every single day in Singapore. A small umbrella is essential in case of scorching rays or sudden downpours.

What can be tough for those used to temperate climates is Singapore’s high humidity – 60 to 90% on average throughout the year, so be prepared to sweat it out. Pack light materials or bring a small fan or hankie around with you. Anyone basking under the afternoon sun who’s not on the beach is definitely a tourist – be sure to slap on the sunblock!

Funnily enough, it tends to be a lot colder indoors than outdoors because shopping malls and central cooling overcompensate for the heat.

A scarf or a light jacket will keep you warm, offer extra sun protection and are the perfect cover-up if you plan to visit religious buildings.

3. Singapore is an independent country 

With a majority Chinese population, some people mistakenly assume that Singapore is a part of China, which is not the case. Most Chinese Singaporeans are descendants of southeastern Chinese immigrants who sailed across the seas decades ago. 

Singapore may be hard to spot on a map, but you’ll find it just south of the Malaysian peninsula in Southeast Asia, four hours away from China by plane. On that note, despite its proximity and commonalities in shared culture and history, Singapore is also not a part of Malaysia, though it was very briefly back in 1963 before Singapore became fully independent in 1965, making next year – 2025 – the 60th anniversary of the republic.  

4. Most Singaporeans speak excellent English

Singapore is an easy place for Western tourists to explore on their own because of the widespread use of English here. Fun fact: Singapore actually has four official languages: Mandarin, Bahasa Melayu and Tamil represent the three major ethnic groups found here (Chinese, Malay and Indian respectively), and English is the main language used in schools and for business, which also allows for conversation across ethnicities.

5. Natural disasters are unlikely in Singapore 

Singapore may not have scenic mountain ranges or awe-inspiring topography, but it’s also out of the path of any major tectonic movement. You are unlikely to face any major natural disasters – no earthquakes, volcanos, typhoons or sandstorms here.

In the worst case, there may be flash floods during particularly rainy periods or haze blanketing the island from forest fires around the region, but these are usually temporary and minor inconveniences.

6. Singapore is a safe and stable place to visit 

Singapore is also well-known for its generally stable political and business climate, often ranked as one of the least corrupt countries in the world. Strikes that can disrupt travel plans are practically nonexistent here.

The crime rate in Singapore is also relatively low with lots of surveillance and a police force that people trust in. As a single woman, I’ve never been too worried about wandering around Singapore on my own even at night, but do maintain some common sense for your own safety as one of our popular slogans here goes: low crime doesn’t mean no crime.

7. Carry both cash and credit cards

How many Singapore dollars you change before your trip largely depends on where you plan to go . Most major tourist attractions and shops in shopping malls will accept credit cards, and other cashless options like contactless payments and smart wallets are also common.

Those planning to take public transport in Singapore can use their credit cards on the public buses and MRT card readers for convenience, but purchasing a local EZ-Link card or transport pass may be more worthwhile depending on how much travel you plan to do. However, do carry some cash around with you as it remains the prevalent method of payment for most small businesses, eating at hawker center stalls, or taking a taxi. Try to break notes of larger denominations ($50/$100) into smaller ones ($2/$5/$10) when possible.

8. Prebook attractions to avoid waiting in line

There’s a joke that a Singaporean’s favorite pastime is to queue for things, but that’s not something you want to waste time on. If there is an option to prebook tickets online or make a reservation, just do it. This is key on busy weekends and peak vacation periods like the mid- and year-end school holidays.

An attraction’s official website is usually the best place to get tickets, but browse other booking platforms before you check out as these sites may offer special seasonal discounts or multi-bundle prices. Also check the Visit Singapore website as it sometimes runs incentive programs for tourists.

9. Tipping is not expected

Tipping is not expected in Singapore. If you’re eating out in a restaurant or cafe, there is usually a 10% service charge included in the bill. Some places may have a tip box but otherwise, additional tips are not mandatory or expected, though they are appreciated in the service line.

10. Understand the art of "chope-ing"

If you are eating at food centers or working at co-working spaces, particularly within the central business district, you may notice empty tables with strategically placed items like umbrellas, tissue packets or lanyards on the seats. This is a local practice to "chope" or reserve a seat while everyone is queuing up at the stalls. Most people honor this informal reservation system and will look elsewhere for available seats.

11. Yes, you can drink the tap water

There's no need to buy bottled water in Singapore. The tap water here is treated and perfectly safe to drink. You'll find that most attractions have water coolers where you can refill your reusable bottles while you're out and about during the day.

This article was first published Sep 22, 2023 and updated Mar 9, 2024.

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Follow our news, recent searches, commentary: dear travel influencers, ‘real’ singapore is sweaty and off the social media hype, advertisement.

Instagram and TikTok tend to show only one side of the Singapore tourist experience, but there’s more to explore beyond Marina Bay Sands, Sentosa and chicken rice, says writer Desiree Koh.

People gather along the Marina Bay waterfront in Singapore on Jun 1, 2022. (File photo: AFP/Roslan Rahman)

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Desiree Koh

SINGAPORE: When Adam and Charlotte Erace had 48 hours in Singapore in June, flying in from Philadelphia, United States, they concentrated on eating and drinking.

“Because Singapore’s reputation demanded it,” recounts Adam, 40, a food and travel writer. “We didn’t want to just follow Michelin stars or (Netflix series) Chef’s Table or (chef Anthony) Bourdain; connecting with a local person who could show their personal favourites in their neighbourhood gave us a deeper experience instead of following all the other food tourists.”

That local person was me. In four hours, we sliced across Joo Chiat, from Katong to Geylang Serai, mimicking a Singaporean’s daily culinary cycle: Kaya toast breakfast set at Chin Mee Chin, popiah lunch at Kway Guan Huat, curry puff tea time at Soon Soon Huat, nasi padang dinner at Hjh Maimunah and Haig Road Putu Piring for dessert.

Along the way, we breathed in the pastel kaleidoscope and ethnic embroidery of the country’s first designated Heritage Town. The Eraces were curious about life here: Sharing a hawker centre table with uncles and aunties, we talked about HDB void deck culture and the gifts and challenges of our uniquely cosmopolitan society.

This was a sensorial deep dive into our heart(lands) and soul - not content for the next Instagram Reel, TikTok and YouTube video.

THE SWEATY SIDE OF SINGAPORE

But how many visitors go for such intimate encounters with gusto? This genuine, sweaty Singapore isn’t the social media fodder with the Merlion, Orchard Road, Marina Bay Sands, Gardens By The Bay - named eighth best attraction in the world by Tripadvisor - and Chinatown’s more sanitised streets.

And this is why some tourists regularly criticise Singapore for being artificial and expensive. Every now and then, such criticisms go viral - like one calling it “the most boring country” she had ever been to, or another who complained that it was “super expensive” but later wrote that she did not want to “eat at stalls or ride in the train”.

Each time, locals are quick to defend that these scenes aren’t the “real” Singapore.

Just as we’re a diverse mosaic of nationalities, ethnicities, neighbourhoods and palates - so are these travellers. Most tourists with just a few days in town understandably focus on the marquee sights downtown and food celebrity-backed dining - after all, if you didn’t tell a Story of your Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel’s Writers Bar, were you ever on our shores?

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Off the tourist social media algorithm.

Yet, the beauty of visiting Singapore is that if you have a particular taste, we have an off-menu experience for you.

History buffs can step through time at Fort Canning right in the heart of the Civic District, with World War II museum Reflections at Bukit Chandu a short MRT ride away and Changi Prison Chapel a quick adventure afield. Nature lovers can traverse the Rail Corridor, delve into MacRitchie Nature Trail and tugboat over to Pulau Ubin.

New Bahru’s catalog of Singapore’s most exhilarating designers, lifestyle purveyors and chefs is a dreamy draw for style connoisseurs, who will also love browsing independent labels nestled in Kampong Glam, Tiong Bahru and Club Street. The art colonies of Wessex Estate, Gillman Barracks and Telok Kurau Studios are an arcadia of local works for appreciators and collectors.

The best part of such niche explorations? Once you’re off the tourist algorithm, one intrepid discovery leads to another five-foot-way to another hidden park to another vanishing trade being plied, accompanied by fantastic eating - street food or contemporary dining - along the way.

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“authentic” singapore experience.

It’s not impossible to relish a succinct degustation of Singapore, even with limited time. Tours and classes both conventional and quirky are efficient for ticking off the checklist of must-sees, real and surreal in one fell swoop.

Chinatown Business Association regularly hosts crafty workshops like Chinese opera make-up and traditional hand puppetry, or sign up for a Cookery Magic class with your choice of local cuisine in a bucolic Opera Estate backyard.

Still, let’s not forget that the modern sheen of Marina Bay is actually authentically Singapore, one of founding prime minister Lee Kuan Yew’s visions for the urban reinvention of the country.

And we’re so fortunate to have heritage next door to these man-made marvels (and/or monstrosities) - just a Jubilee Walk spanning 8km of historical milestones and a loop around Marina Bay glows a real sense of who we are, where we came from, and where we’re headed.

Because at one end of the futuristic-looking Helix Bridge, there’s an uncle selling ice cream sandwiches with rainbow bread - a local snack beloved by generations. In the shadow of the glitzy Mondrian on Duxton, there’s Tong Mern Sern, a shophouse crammed with curios that’s a history trawl through vintage Singapore.

This Central Business District of skyscraper glitz dappled with public art spaces - that’s us. These runners and cyclists along the bayfront - that’s us, too. Those long lines at the Chinatown Complex hawker centre - that’s most definitely us.

In fact, real Singapore is everywhere, if travellers want to really give us a good and proper look - and not just through a smartphone lens.

Desiree Koh is a freelance writer based in Singapore.

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