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

Should you visit Singapore or Rotorua?

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

Should I visit Singapore or Rotorua? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Singapore

Singapore is a global, diverse, and colorful city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Singapore attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Singapore travel costs.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a diverse, cultural, and natural town. With stunning beauty, Rotorua attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Rotorua travel costs.

Singapore and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Singapore or Rotorua?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Singapore than Rotorua. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Singapore is very popular for its food, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Rotorua attracts visitors for its hiking. Singapore is famous for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets. It is also well known for Merlion Park Waterfront. Rotorua is famous for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies.

How is Singapore different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Singapore offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The mix of cultures and unique history have led to museums and landmarks that mix historic and modern. The Merlion statue in Merlion Park has become a symbol of the city. For an educational experience, head to the Asian Civilizations Museum, and to see colonial architecture check out Fort Canning Park.

Many visitors head to Rotorua specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The area is filled with opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. The Maori village of Whakarewarewa is a highlight and you should also visit Te Wairoa. Fans of Lord of the Rings won't want to miss Hobbiton either. Finally, Rotorua Museum well worth a visit.

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

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Singapore have been singled out for their culinary prowess. From local dives to five star restaurants, the city's food scene is all about diversity. Make sure you try Hainanese chicken rice, chili crab, and Hokkien prawn mee.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Rotorua makes for a great culinary experience. There's a wide selection of culinary options in the area that include steambox (food prepared with the geothermal heat), and hāngī, which is a traditional Maori cooking technique. Many restaurants also make use of the local fruit, vegetables, and meats.

Is Singapore or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Singapore and Rotorua.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Singapore. It's all about the glitzy nightclubs and exclusive cocktail bars. Head to Clarke Quay, Marina Bay Sands, or one of the many rooftop bars to experience the best of Singapore's nightlife. Do keep in mind that the city has a high alcohol tax, and strict rules around drinking in public places during certain hours.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Rotorua. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

Is Singapore or Rotorua Better for Music?

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

Singapore has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. As a globalized city, you'll find almost any type of music here. Popular music venues include Timbre, Zouk, and the Crazy Elephant.

Rotorua is not a live music destination.

Is Singapore or Rotorua Better for Resorts?

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

Singapore is a world class resort vacation destination. From sleek high rises with rooftop pools to family-friendly resorts with kid oriented activities, this city has it all. Popular resorts include Oasia Resort Sentosa, Dusit Thani Laguna, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Rotorua is not a resort destination.

Is Singapore or Rotorua Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Singapore is not a good area for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rotorua is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

Rotorua is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Singapore or Rotorua Better for Beaches?

Singapore is a city with good options for the beach. However, Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Singapore. You'll find most of the area's best beaches on Sentosa Island. There's a 2 kilometer long artificial beach that is split into Palawan Beach, Siloso Beach, and Tanjong Beach.

Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Is Singapore or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

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

Rotorua is a popular spot for hiking. The area is filled with beautiful walking trails that take you by lakes, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs. A favorite route in the area is Tarawera Trail, which is 15 kilometers long and ends at a natural hot water beach.

Singapore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Singapore or Rotorua?

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Singapore specifically to go shopping. You'll find tons of malls along Orchard Road, but for a more eclectic shopping experience head to the Chinatown Street Market.

Rotorua is a great destination for shopping. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

Is Singapore or Rotorua More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of excellent scenery and beauty in both Singapore and Rotorua.

With stunning beauty, Singapore attracts visitors from all around. It is a beautiful city with many lights and colorful neighborhoods.

Rotorua is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's surrounded by striking volcanoes, beautiful lakes, and surreal geothermal springs, giving it an exotic and beautiful atmosphere.

Is Singapore or Rotorua Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Singapore or Rotorua.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Singapore is a very family-friendly destination. With places like Sentosa and Universal Studios, there really is no shortage of activities for kids. There's also a zoo, an aquarium, and bird park, and many kid-friendly museums.

Rotorua is one of the most popular family destinations. The geothermal activity is fascinating for kids and adults alike. There are also many activities that will teach kids about the Maori culture and for animal lovers, there are farms and wildlife tours. Lord of the Rings fans won't want to miss Hobbiton, and there are many thrilling activities in the area such as white water rafting.

Is Singapore or Rotorua Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Singapore and Rotorua make for a terrific place to visit.

Singapore makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The city has stunning hotels, amazing restaurants, and plenty of fun activities that are perfect for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Rotorua has plenty to offer. The unique environment and beautiful natural setting make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. Couples will appreciate the geothermal activity, beautiful walking trails, and diverse outdoor activities. There's also horseback riding, hot springs, and helicopter rides.

Is Singapore or Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Singapore and Rotorua are terrific destinations for backpackers.

Singapore is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers use this city as a starting or ending point for their Southeast Asian backpacking trip. It's modern and glamourous, but still has plenty of backpacker-friendly and budget-friendly options.

Many backpackers frequent Rotorua. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Is Singapore or Rotorua Better for Students?

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Rotorua is not popular with students.

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

Rotorua is not popular with students.

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

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Rotorua, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through the area.

Is Singapore or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Singapore is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Singapore. It's possible to walk in most areas in the city center. There are also park connectors that are nice for taking a stroll or going for a run.

Rotorua is somewhat walkable. The town itself is fairly walkable but if you want to get into the surrounding areas, having a vehicle provides the most flexibility.

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

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Singapore?

How long in Singapore or Rotorua?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Singapore and Rotorua. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Singapore than in Rotorua. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Singapore, and 2-3 days is enough time in Rotorua.

Families should spend more time in Singapore than Rotorua. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Singapore, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Singapore than Rotorua if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Singapore.

One day in Singapore or Rotorua?

Because Singapore is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Rotorua. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Singapore or Rotorua?

Because Singapore is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Singapore has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the world-renowned destination of Rotorua. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Singapore or Rotorua?

Singapore is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Singapore has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural town of Rotorua. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Singapore or Rotorua?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Singapore. Because Singapore is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Rotorua is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Singapore, The Best Tours for Seniors to Singapore, The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Singapore and Rotorua, we can see that Singapore is more expensive. And not only is Rotorua much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Singapore is in Asia and Rotorua is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Rotorua would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rotorua and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Singapore would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Singapore than you might in Rotorua.

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

Which is Bigger, Singapore or Rotorua?

Singapore has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Rotorua. When comparing the sizes of Singapore and Rotorua, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.