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

Should you visit Singapore or Tauranga?

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

Should I visit Singapore or Tauranga? 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 colorful, glitzy, and modern 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. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping. See Singapore travel costs.

Tauranga

Tauranga is a laid back, relaxing, and nature-filled town. With stunning beauty, Tauranga attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Tauranga travel costs.

Singapore and Tauranga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Singapore or Tauranga?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Singapore than Tauranga. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Singapore is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and big city activities, while Tauranga attracts visitors for its beaches and 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. Tauranga is famous for its sandy beaches and beautiful walking trails.

How is Singapore different from Tauranga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Singapore is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Tauranga is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historic buildings in town like the Elms Mission Station which dates back to 1847.

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

Singapore is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Singapore is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. From local dives to five star restaurants, the city's food scene is all about diversity. Make sure you try Hainanese chicken rice, chili crab, and Hokkien prawn mee.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Tauranga. You'll find a great mix of restaurants in the town's downtown area. There are international flavors as well as seafood and other local favorites.

Is Singapore or Tauranga Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Singapore and Tauranga.

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 Tauranga. The city is known for its laid back bar scene. There are venues with casual live music as well as pubs where locals and tourists intermingle.

Is Singapore or Tauranga Better for Music?

Singapore is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Tauranga is not a live music destination.

In Singapore you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. As a globalized city, you'll find almost any type of music here. Popular music venues include Timbre, Zouk, and the Crazy Elephant.

Tauranga is not a live music destination.

Is Singapore or Tauranga Better for Resorts?

Singapore is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Tauranga is not a resort destination.

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

Tauranga is not a resort destination.

Is Singapore or Tauranga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

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

Tauranga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Singapore or Tauranga Better for Beaches?

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

Tauranga is considered a top beach destination. Families and travelers head here for the sandy beaches and water activities. Surfing, kayaking, and fishing are all popular in the area. Some of the most popular beaches include Mount Maunganui Beach, Waihī Beach, and Anzac Bay.

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

Is Singapore or Tauranga Better for Hiking?

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

Tauranga is a popular spot for hiking. The Bay of Plenty is filled with hiking trails that run along the coast or head inland through the mountains. There are forest and bush walks that range in length and skill level and there really is something for everyone.

Singapore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Singapore or Tauranga?

Singapore is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Singapore is a world class destination for shoppers. You'll find tons of malls along Orchard Road, but for a more eclectic shopping experience head to the Chinatown Street Market.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Tauranga. You'll find all of the standard shopping malls, retail outlets, and clothing boutiques around town.

Is Singapore or Tauranga More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of high quality scenery and beauty in both Singapore and Tauranga.

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

Tauranga is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. A mix of beaches, mountains, waterfalls, and other natural environments make this a beautiful destination for travelers.

Is Singapore or Tauranga Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Singapore or Tauranga.

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.

Tauranga is one of the most popular family destinations. Check out the ropes courses at Adrenalin Forest or play in the water at Waimarino Adventure Park. There are also many different walking areas like McLaren Falls Park and Kaiate Falls. Kids will love hanging out at the beach around Mount Maunganui or Papamoa Beach. This is an affordable and kid-family destination for locals and international tourists alike.

Is Singapore or Tauranga Better for Couples?

Singapore is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Tauranga makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a romantic destination with great beaches and beautiful waterfalls. You can enjoy a picnic in the park or dine at one of the local restaurants. Kayaking is also a popular activity in the area.

Is Singapore or Tauranga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Singapore and Tauranga are first-rate 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 Tauranga. This is one of the more affordable destinations in New Zealand. There are also a number of backpacker-friendly jobs that make it a great place to base yourself.

Is Singapore or Tauranga Better for Students?

Singapore is a world-class destination for students. However, Tauranga is not popular with students.

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

Tauranga is not popular with students.

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

Singapore is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Singapore can get you around easily. There is the MRT subway system as well as buses that travel all over the city.

Tauranga has some public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries in the area.

Is Singapore or Tauranga a more walkable city?

Singapore is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Tauranga is somewhat walkable. There are many walking and cycling paths in the area, but you really need a car to explore the area in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Tauranga or Singapore?

How long in Singapore or Tauranga?

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

Families should spend more time in Singapore than Tauranga. 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 Tauranga. 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 Tauranga 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 Tauranga?

Singapore is a big city with plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Tauranga. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Singapore or Tauranga?

Singapore is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Singapore, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the nature-filled destination of Tauranga. 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 Tauranga?

Singapore is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Singapore, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxing town of Tauranga. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Singapore or Tauranga?

Singapore is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Singapore has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Tauranga is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Singapore or Tauranga?

Singapore has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Tauranga. When comparing the sizes of Singapore and Tauranga, 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.