A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bali vs. Auckland for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Bali or Auckland?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Bali and Auckland can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bali

Bali is a cultural, stunning, and tropical island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Auckland

Auckland is a adventurous, adrenaline-filled, and thrill-seeking city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bali and Auckland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Auckland?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Auckland. Although Bali and Auckland are roughly the same size, Auckland has more sights and attractions for tourists. Auckland is better known for its museums and big city activities, while Bali is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bali is more touristy than Auckland and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Auckland is well known for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. Also, Auckland is famous for the Sky Tower.

How is Bali different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bali or Auckland?

Auckland is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Auckland specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Bali or Auckland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bali is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Bali has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

Dining out in Auckland is an experience not to be missed. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Is Bali or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

Bali is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Bali is a world class party destination. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

The people in Auckland know how to have a good time. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

Is Bali or Auckland Better for Resorts?

Bali is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Auckland is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Bali is a perfect choice. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Auckland is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Auckland Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Bali is not to be missed. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Auckland Better for Beaches?

Bali is a must-visit destination for the beache. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Bali is a very popular vacation destination. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Auckland. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Is Bali or Auckland Better for Hiking?

Bali is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Bali. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Auckland has hiking trails worth exploring. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Auckland?

Both Bali and Auckland are very good shopping destinations.

Bali is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Auckland. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Is Bali or Auckland Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Bali or Auckland.

Bali is a very kid-friendly island. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Auckland. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Is Bali or Auckland Better for Couples?

Bali is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Bali has plenty to offer. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

Couples visit Auckland frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Is Bali or Auckland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Bali is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

Auckland is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Is Bali or Auckland Better for Students?

Auckland is a well-known place for students. However, Bali is not popular with students.

Auckland is very popular with students. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Bali is not popular with students.

Is Bali or Auckland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Bali and Auckland offer notable public transit options.

Bali has a few public transit options. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Auckland has some public transit options. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

Is Bali or Auckland a more walkable city?

Bali and Auckland both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Bali is generally not very walkable. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

Auckland is generally not a very walkable island. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Bali Worth Visiting? and Is Auckland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Bali?

How long in Bali or Auckland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bali and Auckland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bali than in Auckland. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 2-3 days is enough time in Auckland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali than Auckland 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 Bali.

One day in Bali or Auckland?

The beautiful island of Bali offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Auckland is a big city destination where you can fill many days. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Bali or Auckland?

Bali is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Auckland is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bali or Auckland?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the thrill-seeking big city of Auckland. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bali or Auckland?

Bali is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bali has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

The thrill-seeking city of Auckland offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia, The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bali and Auckland, we can see that Auckland is more expensive. And not only is Bali much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bali is in Asia and Auckland 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 Bali would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bali 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 Auckland would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Auckland than you might in Bali.

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

Which is Bigger, Bali or Auckland?

Auckland has a larger population, and is about 3% larger than the population of Bali. When comparing the sizes of Bali and Auckland, 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.

When is the best time to visit Bali or Auckland?

Auckland has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Bali experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Bali or Auckland in the Summer?

Both Auckland and Bali during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Auckland this time of year.

Bali is a little warmer than Auckland in the summer. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Auckland fluctuates around 20°C (68°F)in January.

In Auckland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bali. In the summer, Bali often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aucklandin January. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 240 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets less rain in July than Aucklandin January. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year. April to September is the dry season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Auckland in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Auckland. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Auckland for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Bali is much warmer than Auckland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bali in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Auckland averages at about 16°C (61°F)in April.

In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Auckland during autumn. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 162 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bali usually receives less rain than Aucklandin April. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Auckland in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bali as well as Auckland. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Auckland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Bali is generally much warmer than Aucklandin July. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 26°C (79°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the winter, Bali often gets more sunshine than Aucklandin July. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Auckland. Bali usually gets less rain in January than Aucklandin July. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March in Bali is the rainy season.

Should I visit Bali or Auckland in the Spring?

Both Auckland and Bali are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Auckland for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

Bali is much warmer than Auckland in the spring. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Auckland fluctuates around 14°C (58°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Auckland during spring. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bali usually receives less rain than Aucklandin October. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Bali is April to September.

Typical Weather for Auckland and Bali