Is Singapore Expensive to Visit? Your Ultimate Budget Travel Guide

Singapore, the dazzling metropolis that’s home to futuristic skyscrapers, lush green spaces, and some of the world’s best street food. It’s the perfect blend of East meets West, where you can be sipping a cocktail at a rooftop bar one minute and feasting on budget-friendly noodles at a hawker centre the next. But here’s the big question: Is Singapore expensive to visit?

The answer? It depends on how you travel. Singapore has a reputation for its sleek luxury, but there are plenty of ways to enjoy this vibrant city without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll unpack Singapore tourist expenses — from flights and accommodation to food and transport — and help you make the most of your time in the Lion City on any budget.

How Expensive Is Public Transport in Singapore?

Singapore’s public transport system is a budget traveller’s dream — clean, efficient, and cheap! The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system is the backbone of public transport in the city, and it’s well complemented by an extensive bus network. Let’s dive into how expensive Singapore is when it comes to getting around. These prices were accurate at the time of writing (October 2024).

The MRT is the best way to navigate Singapore if you’re looking to save money. It’s fast, reliable, and air-conditioned — ideal for avoiding the city’s humid heat. Fares range from £0.60 to £1.20 per trip, depending on the distance. The MRT will take you to popular attractions like Marina Bay Sands, Orchard Road, and Gardens by the Bay.

For those off the MRT grid, buses are a budget-friendly alternative. A single ride costs between £0.50 and £1.00, and they can take you just about anywhere in the city. But be prepared for slower journeys during rush hour.

If you need door-to-door service, taxis and ride-sharing apps like Grab are easily available but pricier. For short trips, fares start around £5-£10 but can surge higher during busy times. Overall, if you stick to public transport, expect to spend around £2-£5 per day on getting around.

How Much Is a Flight to Singapore?

Now that we’ve got local transport sorted, let’s tackle the bigger question: how much is a flight to Singapore? Flying to Singapore from the UK can vary in cost, depending on when you book and the time of year.

From London: Return flights to Singapore generally range from £450 to £750, with prices fluctuating based on seasonality and how far in advance you book.

From Manchester or Edinburgh: Flights from regional airports are similar in cost, typically ranging between £500 and £800.

To snag the best deals, book well in advance (3-4 months before your trip is ideal) and try to avoid peak periods like December or Chinese New Year (late January/early February). Websites like Skyscanner and Google Flights are great tools to track prices and find the cheapest options.

Flying mid-week or opting for a stopover can also help bring the cost of travelling to Singapore down, so be flexible with your dates and routes.

The Cost of Accommodation in Singapore

When it comes to accommodation, Singapore caters to all budgets, from opulent luxury hotels to affordable hostels. Whether you're here to splash out or stretch your pounds, here’s a breakdown of accommodation costs in Singapore.

Luxury hotels

Singapore boasts some of the most iconic luxury hotels in the world, such as the stunning Marina Bay Sands and the historic Raffles Hotel. If you’re ready to splurge, expect to pay anywhere from £250 to £500+ per night. You’ll get stunning city views, infinity pools, and five-star service, but it comes at a price.

Mid-range hotels

For those seeking comfort without going overboard, Singapore offers a wide range of mid-range hotels in areas like Chinatown, Bugis, and Little India. Prices range from £70 to £150 per night, depending on the location and time of year.

Budget hotels and hostels

Yes, you can visit Singapore on a budget! Budget hotels are available for around £30-£60 per night, and hostels offer dormitory beds for as little as £15-£25 per night. While the rooms may be small, the service and cleanliness are usually top-notch.

Airbnb

Renting an entire apartment or a private room through Airbnb is another affordable option. Prices range from £30 to £80 per night, making it perfect for long-term stays or travellers who want the comforts of home while exploring Singapore.

To sum up, whether you’re staying in a luxury suite with skyline views or in a cosy hostel in Little India, there’s accommodation for every budget in Singapore.

Is It Expensive to Eat Out in Singapore?

Singapore is a food lover’s paradise. From Michelin-starred restaurants to world-famous hawker centres, you’ll never go hungry here. But is eating out in Singapore expensive? It depends on where you dine. Let’s explore your options.

The Cost of Food in Singapore

Dining at high-end restaurants, especially in places like Marina Bay Sands or Sentosa, can easily cost £50-£100+ per person. But if you know where to go, Singapore is also home to some of the best and cheapest food on the planet.

For budget-conscious travellers, hawker centres are your best friend. You can grab a plate of Hainanese chicken rice or a bowl of laksa for just £2-£5. Famous hawker centres like Maxwell Food Centre, Chinatown Complex, and Tiong Bahru Market offer a massive variety of delicious local dishes at unbeatable prices.

If you want to step it up a notch but still stay on budget, mid-range restaurants and cafés offer meals for around £10-£20. Whether you’re craving Western cuisine or something more exotic, you’ll find plenty of variety.

For self-catering travellers, groceries in Singapore are moderately priced. A loaf of bread will cost around £1.50, while a litre of milk is about £1.30. Supermarkets like FairPrice and Cold Storage are well-stocked with both local and imported goods.

Tipping in Singapore

Unlike in many Western countries, tipping in Singapore is not customary. Most restaurants will already include a 10% service charge in the bill, so there’s no need to add extra. If you want to leave a small tip to show your appreciation for excellent service, you’re more than welcome to, but it’s by no means expected.

The Cost of Alcohol in Singapore

Here’s where Singapore can get a bit pricey: alcohol. Due to high taxes, drinking at bars or restaurants can be expensive. A pint of beer will typically cost £7-£10, while a glass of wine can set you back £8-£12. Cocktails, especially at rooftop bars like CÉ LA VI or 1-Altitude, can easily cost £12-£20.

To save money, buy alcohol from supermarkets or convenience stores. A six-pack of beer from 7-Eleven costs around £12-£18, and a bottle of decent wine will set you back around £15-£20.

Cheap Activities to Do in Singapore

Despite its shiny exterior, Singapore has plenty of cheap or free activities that will allow you to experience the city without emptying your wallet. Here are a few top picks:

Gardens by the Bay

Stroll through the Supertree Grove and the outdoor gardens for free. If you want to experience the Flower Dome or Cloud Forest, entry is around £20, but you can still enjoy the iconic Supertrees and light show without spending a penny.

Singapore Botanic Gardens

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this lush garden is free to enter and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Hawker centre food tours

Explore the vibrant hawker centres at your own pace. It’s a free activity, and you can enjoy the best local dishes for as little as £2-£5 per meal.

Merlion Park

Visit the iconic Merlion statue by Marina Bay for one of the most Instagrammable spots in Singapore — and it’s free!

How Much to Budget Per Day in Singapore

To help you plan your trip, here’s a rough breakdown of Singapore tourist expenses for a budget-conscious traveller:

So, for a week in Singapore, you could comfortably spend between £329 and £945, depending on your travel style and whether you indulge in a few splurges.

Manage Your Spending Abroad with Our Prepaid Currency Card

You’ve researched, planned, and now it’s time to manage your finances for the trip. Avoid fluctuating exchange rates and hidden fees by ordering your Singapore dollars in advance from Travelex.

Travelex Money Card

The Travelex Money Card, powered by Mastercard, is the perfect travel companion for your trip to Singapore. Load it up with Singapore dollars, lock in your exchange rate before you travel, and use it for contactless payments or ATM withdrawals across the city. Plus, since it’s not linked to your bank account, your money stays safe and secure. Get your Travelex Money Card today from Travelex.

So, is Singapore expensive to visit? It can be, but with a little planning and these Singapore travel tips, you can enjoy the best of the city on any budget. Whether you’re feasting at hawker centres, exploring the city’s green spaces, or sipping cocktails with a view, Singapore is packed with unforgettable experiences. Safe travels!