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

Should you visit Bali or Hong Kong?

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 Hong Kong 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.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a glamorous, diverse , and compact city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bali and Hong Kong: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Bali or Hong Kong?

You'll generally find more things to do in Hong Kong than Bali. Hong Kong is bigger than Bali, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Hong Kong is better known for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Bali is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Bali is more touristy than Hong Kong and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Hong Kong is well known for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. Also, Hong Kong is famous for Victoria Peak.

How is Bali different from Hong Kong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bali
Hong Kong

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

Many visitors head to Hong Kong specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Bali
Hong Kong

Both Bali and Hong Kong 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, Hong Kong is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

Is Bali or Hong Kong Better for Nightlife?

Bali
Hong Kong

Bali is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Hong Kong is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

Is Bali or Hong Kong Better for Resorts?

Bali
Hong Kong

Bali is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Hong Kong 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.

Hong Kong is not a resort destination.


Is Bali or Hong Kong Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali
Hong Kong

Bali is an unbeatable place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hong Kong 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.

Hong Kong is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Hong Kong Better for Beaches?

Bali
Hong Kong

Bali is an unbeatable place for the beache. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

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.

The beaches at Hong Kong attract visitors from all over. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

Is Bali or Hong Kong Better for Hiking?

Bali
Hong Kong

You'll find excellent hiking in both Bali and Hong Kong.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Hong Kong. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.


Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Hong Kong?

Bali
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Hong Kong make it a world-class shopping destination. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bali. 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.

Is Bali or Hong Kong Better for Families?

Bali
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Hong Kong is one of the most popular family destinations. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Bali. 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.

Is Bali or Hong Kong Better for Couples?

Bali
Hong Kong

Both Bali and Hong Kong 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.

Hong Kong has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.


Is Bali or Hong Kong Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali
Hong Kong

Bali is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hong Kong 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.

Hong Kong is a good island to visit for backpackers. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.

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

Bali
Hong Kong

Hong Kong 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.

Hong Kong has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

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 Hong Kong a more walkable city?

Bali
Hong Kong

Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong on foot. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

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 Hong Kong Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hong Kong or Bali?

How long in Bali or Hong Kong?

Both Bali and Hong Kong have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hong Kong.

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

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


  • How many days in Bali or Hong Kong? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bali 5-7 
    Hong Kong 3-7

One day in Bali or Hong Kong?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the island of Bali. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Hong Kong is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Hong Kong?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the cultural destination of Bali. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Hong Kong is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bali or Hong Kong?

You'll find nightlife and food around the lush island of Bali. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Hong Kong is a dense big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Hong Kong?

Bali is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bali, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Hong Kong is a dense city where you can fill many days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Hong Kong or Bali?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bali is $75, while the average daily cost in Hong Kong is $159. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bali and Hong Kong in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bali $43
    Hong Kong $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bali $86
    Hong Kong $150
Compare Hotels in Bali and Hong Kong

Looking for a hotel in Bali or Hong Kong? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bali


Hotels in Hong Kong


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bali Hotel Prices and Hong Kong Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bali $9.27
    Hong Kong $8.71
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bali

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Bali:


  • Motorbike Rental
    $3.18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bali

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bali:

  • West Beach Nusa Penida Tour with Speedboat Transfer from Sanur: $99
  • Unforgettable Batur Volcano Hiking With Private Transfer: $85
  • Ubud: Sky Bike and Jungle Swing Experience with Transfer: $66
  • Traditional Balinese Massage with Hotel Transfer: $50
  • The Best Paragliding In Bali With Private Hotel Transfer: $140
  • Sanur Bali to/from Lembongan: Speedboat Transfer: $16
  • Private transfer: Uluwatu to Bali Airport (DPS): $15
  • Private transfer: Nusa Dua to Bali Airport (DPS): $15
  • Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Bali Airport: $29
  • Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Airport Jimbaran and Uluwatu: $16
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Denpasar International Airport to Nusa Dua Area: $15
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Bali Airport to Jimbaran and Uluwatu Hotel: $16

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Hong Kong:


  • MTR (for 2)
    $2.81
  • Local Bus
    $2.81
  • Ferry Ticket
    $0.26
  • Hong Kong Airport Express Train Ticket
    $14

Is it cheaper to fly into Bali or Hong Kong?

Prices for flights to both Hong Kong and Bali change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bali $21
    Hong Kong $33
Typical Food Prices in Bali

Some typical examples of dining costs in Bali are as follows:


  • Coffee
    $1.27
  • Lunch for Two
    $14
  • Bali Cafe for Two
    $28
  • Lunch for Two
    $8.28
  • Lunch for 2
    $9.17
  • Dinner for 2
    $10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bali

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bali.

  • Best Romantic Seafood Dinner at Jimbaran Beach Sunset : $29
  • ​​The Balinesia Lu'au - 'A Kampung Bali Experience & Dinner Show': $30
  • Romantic Seafood Dinner under sunset in the Beach: $30
  • From Ubud: Authentic Cooking Class in a Local Village: $30
  • Private Tour Uluwatu Sunset Kecak Dance and Dinner at Jimbaran: $31
  • Bali Sunset and Dinner: Uluwatu, Tanah Lot and Jimbaran: $32
  • Amazing Private Tour-Uluwatu Kecak Dance and Romantic Seafood Dinner: $33
  • Pirate Dinner Cruise with Shows, Games, and Music: $34
  • From Ubud: Balinese Cooking Class at an Organic Farm: $35
  • Romantic Seafood Dinner at Jimbaran: $38
  • Padang-Padang Beach+ Uluwatu Sunset and Kecak Dance + Dinner: $45
  • Seminyak: Balinese Cooking Class & Market Tour: $45

Typical Food Prices in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner for 2
    $11

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bali $11
    Hong Kong $95
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bali

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bali are as follows:


  • Spa for Two
    $55
  • Snorkelling Trip
    $13
  • Cooking School
    $29

Tours and Activities in Bali

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bali are as follows:

  • Bali Telaga Waja White Water Rafting Adventure : $47
  • Lembongan Snorkeling and Island Tour: $80
  • Nusa Penida Snorkeling Adventure (Private & All-Inclusive): $129
  • Sightseeing to Ulundanu temple, banyumala waterfall & Tanah lot: $57
  • Tanah Lot, Padang Beach, Uluwatu Sunset, & Kecak Dance Tour: $55
  • (BCR Rafting) Rafting Adventure in Telaga Waja River 18km: $55
  • 1 Days Tour Batur Volcano Various Very Beautiful Tourist Objects: $97
  • 2 Days Private Tours : Watersport And Uluwatu Temple: $135
  • 2-Hour Private Luxury Spa Experience Bali Aromatherapy Massage: $50
  • 3 Days Full Day Tours Tanah Lot Temple The Gate Of Heaven Temple: $300
  • 3-Days Lombok,Gili island Tour Hopping around departure from Bali island: $300
  • 30 minutes tandem Paragliding tours in Bali with free photo/video: $185

Typical Entertainment Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Hong Kong's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Peak Tram
    $7.66
  • Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
    $24

Tours and Activities in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Plover Cove Bicycling and Hiking Adventure: $110
  • Ma On Shan Climbing Adventure: $115

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bali $3.28
    Hong Kong $21


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bali and Hong Kong, we can see that Hong Kong is more expensive. And not only is Bali much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Hong Kong would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bali or Hong Kong?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Bali. When comparing the sizes of Bali and Hong Kong, 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.