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

Should you visit Bali or Kuala Lumpur?

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 Kuala Lumpur can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bali

Bali is a tropical, lush, and frequented island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a historic, modern, and welcoming 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bali and Kuala Lumpur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Kuala Lumpur?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kuala Lumpur than Bali. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Bali attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bali is more touristy than Kuala Lumpur and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Kuala Lumpur is famous for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants. It is also well known for The Petronas Twin Towers.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Bali different from Kuala Lumpur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Kuala Lumpur are among the most recognizable in the world. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Bali and Kuala Lumpur offer a number of first-rate 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, Kuala Lumpur is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.

Is Bali or Kuala Lumpur Better for Nightlife?

Bali is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

People head to Bali just to party. 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.

Kuala Lumpur is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.

Is Bali or Kuala Lumpur Better for Resorts?

Bali is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Kuala Lumpur 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.

Kuala Lumpur is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Kuala Lumpur Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Kuala Lumpur 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.

Kuala Lumpur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Kuala Lumpur Better for Beaches?

Bali is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Kuala Lumpur 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.

Kuala Lumpur is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Kuala Lumpur Better for Hiking?

Bali is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

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.

Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Kuala Lumpur?

Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi areas.

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 Kuala Lumpur Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Bali or Kuala Lumpur.

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 Kuala Lumpur. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.

Is Bali or Kuala Lumpur Better for Couples?

Bali is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Couples visit Kuala Lumpur frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.

Is Bali or Kuala Lumpur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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.

Kuala Lumpur is a great island to visit for backpackers. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.

Is Bali or Kuala Lumpur Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Kuala Lumpur. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.

Bali is not popular with students.

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

Kuala Lumpur 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.

Kuala Lumpur has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

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 Kuala Lumpur a more walkable city?

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

Kuala Lumpur is a very walkable city. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist 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 Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kuala Lumpur or Bali?

How long in Bali or Kuala Lumpur?

In either Bali or Kuala Lumpur, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bali than Kuala Lumpur because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 1-5 days is enough time in Kuala Lumpur.

Families should spend more time in Bali than Kuala Lumpur. 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 Kuala Lumpur. 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 Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur?

In Bali, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this frequented island offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Kuala Lumpur is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Bali or Kuala Lumpur?

Bali is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur?

In Bali, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this stunning destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Kuala Lumpur is a modern big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. 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 Kuala Lumpur?

Bali is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The historic city of Kuala Lumpur 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 Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bali and Kuala Lumpur, we can see that Bali is more expensive. And not only is Kuala Lumpur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kuala Lumpur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kuala Lumpur 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 Bali would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bali than you might in Kuala Lumpur.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bali Expensive? and Is Kuala Lumpur Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bali or Kuala Lumpur?

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

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Bali or Kuala Lumpur in the Summer?

Both Kuala Lumpur 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round.

April to September is the dry season in Bali. Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bali usually gets less rain in July than Kuala Lumpur. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Kuala Lumpur, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bali. In the summer, Bali often gets more sunshine than Kuala Lumpur. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kuala Lumpur receives 200 hours of full sun.

In July, Bali is generally around the same temperature as Kuala Lumpur. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Kuala Lumpur fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Bali or Kuala Lumpur in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Kuala Lumpur. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Also, October to March is the rainy season in Bali. Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Bali usually receives less rain than Kuala Lumpur. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 280 mm (11 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Kuala Lumpur during autumn. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Kuala Lumpur receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Bali is around the same temperature as Kuala Lumpur in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Kuala Lumpur fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Bali or Kuala Lumpur in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bali as well as Kuala Lumpur. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year.

October to March in Bali is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. Bali usually gets less rain in January than Kuala Lumpur. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the winter, Bali often gets less sunshine than Kuala Lumpur. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kuala Lumpur receives 185 hours of full sun.

In the winter, Bali is around the same temperature as Kuala Lumpur. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bali in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Kuala Lumpur averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Bali or Kuala Lumpur in the Spring?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Bali are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Bali is April to September. It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. In April, Bali usually receives less rain than Kuala Lumpur. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Kuala Lumpur during spring. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Kuala Lumpur receives 199 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bali is generally around the same temperature as Kuala Lumpur. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Kuala Lumpur fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Typical Weather for Kuala Lumpur and Bali