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

Should you visit Bali or Florence?

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 Florence 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.

Florence

Florence is a alluring, historical, and artistic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bali and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Florence?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Florence than Bali, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Florence is better known for its museums and historical sights, while Bali is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Bali is well known for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Florence is well known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore).

How is Bali different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Florence is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Florence are among the most recognizable in the world. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Bali and Florence offer a number of terrific restaurants to choose from.

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).

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Florence is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Is Bali or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Bali is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Bali is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Bali or Florence Better for Resorts?

Bali is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Florence is not a resort destination.

Bali offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Florence is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Florence Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is an unbeatable place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Florence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Bali specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Florence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Florence Better for Beaches?

Bali is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Florence is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Bali are among the best in the world. 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.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Florence is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Bali does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Florence can be explored in its historical center. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Bali does not have a historic old town.

Is Bali or Florence Better for Hiking?

Bali is a great island for hiking. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Florence?

Both Bali and Florence are excellent 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 Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Bali or Florence Better for Families?

Bali is a great island for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence 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.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Bali or Florence Better for Couples?

Both Bali and Florence are terrific destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Florence has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Is Bali or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Bali and Florence are terrific 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 Florence, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Is Bali or Florence Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Florence. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Bali is not popular with students.

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

Both Bali and Florence 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.

Florence has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Bali or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence 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 Florence on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.

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 Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Bali?

How long in Bali or Florence?

Both Bali and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Bali has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Bali than Florence. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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 Florence. 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 Florence?

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.

Florence 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 Florence?

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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the historical destination of Florence. 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 Florence?

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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Florence. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Bali or Florence?

Bali has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Bali and Florence, 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 Florence?

Florence 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 Florence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bali as well as Florence. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences.

Bali is around the same temperature as Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Florence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. In the summer, Bali often gets less sunshine than Florence. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets more rain in July than Florence. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Should I visit Bali or Florence in the Autumn?

Both Florence 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 visitors come to Florence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Florence during autumn. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bali usually receives less rain than Florence. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Bali is October to March.

Should I visit Bali or Florence in the Winter?

Both Florence 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. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Bali is generally much warmer than Florence. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 26°C (79°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Bali often gets more sunshine than Florence. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets more rain in January than Florence. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Florence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Florence. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Florence because of the natural beauty.

Bali is much warmer than Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Florence during spring. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bali usually receives less rain than Florence. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Florence and Bali