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

Should you visit Bali or Budapest?

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 Budapest can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bali

Bali is a cultural, stunning, and tropical island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Budapest

Budapest is a cultural, artistic, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bali and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Budapest?

You'll generally find more things to do in Budapest than Bali. Budapest is bigger than Bali, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Budapest is better known for its museums, historical sights, 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 Budapest and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Budapest is well known for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. Also, Budapest is famous for The Hungarian Parliament Building.

How is Bali different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Many visitors head to Budapest specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bali is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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).

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Bali or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

Bali is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Bali is a must-see 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.

Budapest has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Is Bali or Budapest Better for Resorts?

Bali is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Budapest 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.

Budapest is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Budapest Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is terrific for its diving and snorkeling. However, Budapest 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.

Budapest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Budapest Better for Beaches?

Bali is terrific for the beache. However, Budapest is not a beach destination.

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.

Budapest is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Budapest is a well-known place for its old town. However, Bali does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Budapest. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Bali does not have a historic old town.

Is Bali or Budapest Better for Hiking?

Bali is great for hiking. However, Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Bali for the hiking trails. 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.

Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Budapest?

Both Bali and Budapest 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 Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Is Bali or Budapest Better for Families?

Bali is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bali is very family-friendly. 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.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Bali or Budapest Better for Couples?

Bali is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Budapest is a very popular place to visit for couples. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Is Bali or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Bali and Budapest are fantastic destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Bali. 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.

A large number of backpackers visit Budapest, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

Is Bali or Budapest Better for Students?

Budapest is a must-visit destination for students. However, Bali is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Budapest. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Bali is not popular with students.

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

Budapest is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Budapest has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

Bali has some 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.

Is Bali or Budapest a more walkable city?

Budapest is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Budapest on foot. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Bali?

How long in Bali or Budapest?

In either Bali or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bali than Budapest because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 2-5 days is enough time in Budapest.

Families should spend more time in Bali than Budapest. 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 Budapest. 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.

One day in Bali or Budapest?

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.

Budapest is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Budapest?

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.

Budapest is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Budapest?

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.

Budapest is a artistic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Bali or Budapest?

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 historic city of Budapest offers museums and nightlife. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 10-Day Tours from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bali and Budapest, we can see that Budapest 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 Budapest is in Europe, 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 Budapest would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Budapest 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 Budapest Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bali or Budapest?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Bali. When comparing the sizes of Bali and Budapest, 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 Budapest?

Budapest 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 Budapest in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bali as well as Budapest. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Budapest this time of year.

Bali is a little warmer than Budapest in the summer. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Budapest fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Budapest. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. In the summer, Bali often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets less rain in July than Budapest. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Should I visit Bali or Budapest in the Autumn?

Both Budapest and Bali are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Budapest for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bali is much warmer than Budapest. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bali in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Budapest averages at about 12°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Budapest during autumn. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bali usually receives more rain than Budapest. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Bali is October to March.

Should I visit Bali or Budapest in the Winter?

Both Budapest and Bali during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Budapest in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Budapest can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Bali is generally much warmer than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 26°C (79°F), and Budapest fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

In the winter, Bali often gets more sunshine than Budapest. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets more rain in January than Budapest. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Budapest in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Budapest. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Budapest for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Bali is much warmer than Budapest in the spring. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Budapest during spring. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bali usually receives more rain than Budapest. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Bali