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

Should you visit Bali or Canberra?

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

Bali

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

Canberra

Canberra is a cultural, diverse, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Canberra travel costs.

Bali and Canberra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Canberra?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bali than Canberra. Bali is bigger than Canberra, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bali is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Canberra is more popular for its museums and attractions and big city activities. Bali is more touristy than Canberra and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Also, Bali is famous for Pura Lempuyang. Canberra is well known for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves.

How is Bali different from Canberra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Many visitors head to Canberra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bali is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Bali is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 Canberra is an experience not to be missed. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Is Bali or Canberra Better for Nightlife?

Bali is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Bali or Canberra Better for Resorts?

Bali is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Canberra is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Bali is a great 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.

Canberra is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Canberra Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is terrific for its diving and snorkeling. However, Canberra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Bali a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Canberra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Canberra Better for Beaches?

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

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Bali. 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.

Canberra is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Canberra Better for Hiking?

Bali is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Canberra 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Canberra. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Canberra?

Bali is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Bali is well-known for its shopping. 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 go to Canberra to go shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Bali or Canberra More Beautiful?

Bali is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Canberra is not a destination known for its beauty.

Bali is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches and stunning countryside. It's also a very cultural island with a lot of spirituality.

Canberra is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Bali or Canberra Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Bali or Canberra.

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 Canberra. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Is Bali or Canberra Better for Couples?

Bali is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Bali makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Canberra is a good island for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Bali or Canberra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options 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.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Bali or Canberra Better for Students?

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

Canberra is very popular with students. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

Bali is not popular with students.

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

Both Bali and Canberra 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.

Canberra has some public transit options. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Is Bali or Canberra a more walkable city?

Canberra is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

Canberra is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

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 Canberra Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Canberra or Bali?

How long in Bali or Canberra?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bali and Canberra. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bali than in Canberra. Usually, 7-14 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 2-3 days is enough time in Canberra.

Families should spend more time in Bali than Canberra. 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 Canberra. 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 Canberra 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 Canberra?

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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Canberra. 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 Canberra?

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.

Canberra is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 Canberra?

Bali is a popular choice for travelers. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than five days exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Canberra. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bali or Canberra?

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 under-rated city of Canberra offers nightlife and food. 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 3-Week Tours in Australia, and The Best Budget Tours to Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Bali or Canberra?

Bali has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Bali and Canberra, 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 Canberra?

Canberra 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 Canberra in the Summer?

Both Canberra 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 summer months attract visitors to Canberra because of the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Bali usually gets less rain in July than Canberrain January. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year. April to September is the dry season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Canberra in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Canberra. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Canberra this time of year.

In the autumn, Bali is much warmer than Canberra. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bali in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Canberra averages at about 17°C (63°F)in April.

Canberra receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Bali usually receives less rain than Canberrain April. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Canberra in the Winter?

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

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

Bali usually gets more rain in January than Canberrain July. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March in Bali is the rainy season.

Should I visit Bali or Canberra in the Spring?

Both Canberra 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, many visitors come to Canberra in the spring for the activities around the city.

Bali is much warmer than Canberra in the spring. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Canberra fluctuates around 15°C (60°F)in October.

In April, Bali usually receives less rain than Canberrain October. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Bali is April to September.

Typical Weather for Canberra and Bali