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

Should you visit Bali or Ghent?

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

Bali

Bali is a spiritual, cultural, and stunning island. You'll find world class beauty in Bali as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Bali travel costs.

Ghent

Ghent is a high energy, cultural, and historic city. You'll find world class beauty in Ghent as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Ghent travel costs.

Bali and Ghent: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Ghent?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bali than Ghent. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bali is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Ghent attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and historical sights. Bali is more touristy than Ghent and is known for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. It is also well known for Pura Lempuyang. Ghent is famous for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets

How is Bali different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Many visitors head to Ghent specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bali is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Bali, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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).

Ghent has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

Is Bali or Ghent Better for Nightlife?

Both Bali and Ghent are first-rate when it comes to partying.

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.

Ghent is a must-see party destination. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

Is Bali or Ghent Better for Resorts?

Bali is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Ghent is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Bali for its luxury resorts. 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.

Ghent is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Ghent Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ghent is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Bali. 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.

Ghent is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Ghent Better for Beaches?

Bali is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Ghent is not a beach destination.

Bali offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Ghent is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Ghent Better for its Old Town?

Ghent 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 Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Bali does not have a historic old town.

Is Bali or Ghent Better for Hiking?

Bali is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Bali is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Ghent?

Both Bali and Ghent are high quality 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 Ghent. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Is Bali or Ghent More Beautiful?

Bali and Ghent are somewhat similar when it comes to the first-rate scenery.

You'll find world class beauty in Bali as well. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches and stunning countryside. It's also a very cultural island with a lot of spirituality.

Ghent is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its medieval architecture and beautiful waterfront areas, the city has a lot to offer.

Is Bali or Ghent Better for Families?

Bali is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Bali is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Ghent is a family-friendly island. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Is Bali or Ghent Better for Couples?

Bali is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Bali is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Ghent makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Is Bali or Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bali is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Is Bali or Ghent Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Ghent. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Bali is not popular with students.

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

Ghent 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.

Ghent has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

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 Ghent a more walkable city?

Ghent is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

Ghent is a very walkable city. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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 Ghent Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Bali?

How long in Bali or Ghent?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bali and Ghent. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bali than in Ghent. Usually, 7-14 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ghent.

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

In Bali, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this tropical destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Ghent. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Bali or Ghent?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bali. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Ghent is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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 Ghent?

Bali is a fun place to experience. In Bali, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Ghent. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bali or Ghent?

In Bali, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this frequented destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

The youthful city of Ghent offers nightlife and food. 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 Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Belgium.

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

Which is Bigger, Bali or Ghent?

Bali has a larger population, and is about 75% larger than the population of Ghent. When comparing the sizes of Bali and Ghent, 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 Ghent?

Ghent 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 Ghent in the Summer?

Both Ghent and Bali are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Ghent for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Bali is generally much warmer than Ghent. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Ghent. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during summer. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bali usually receives less rain than Ghent. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer. The dry season in Bali is April to September.

Should I visit Bali or Ghent in the Autumn?

Both Ghent and Bali during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Ghent because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Bali is much warmer than Ghent in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Ghent fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Bali. In the autumn, Bali often gets more sunshine than Ghent. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 105 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets less rain in October than Ghent. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Ghent in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Ghent. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Ghent this time of year.

It's quite cold in Ghent in the winter. In the winter, Bali is much warmer than Ghent. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bali in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Ghent averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Bali usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during winter. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bali usually receives more rain than Ghent. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter. Also, October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Ghent in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bali as well as Ghent. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Ghent for the natural beauty.

In April, Bali is generally much warmer than Ghent. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. In the spring, Bali often gets more sunshine than Ghent. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 158 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets more rain in April than Ghent. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Ghent and Bali