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

Should you visit Bali or London?

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

Bali

Bali is a frequented, spiritual, and cultural island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

London

London is a diverse, iconic, and global 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 museums, theater, and nightlife.

Bali and London: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or London?

Travelers will usually find more to do in London than Bali, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. London is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Bali is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bali is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. London is popular for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also home to Big Ben.

Big Ben

How is Bali different from London?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in London are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Bali or London Better for Theater?

London is a must-visit destination for its theatre productions. However, Bali is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in London is world-class. The West End theater district is where you'll find the most popular musicals. Famous theaters include Apollo Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Piccadilly Theatre. There are often Wednesday matinees that are a bit cheaper than the evening shows. You may also be able to get discounted last minute tickets if you're visiting during the less touristy times.

Bali is not a theatre destination.

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

Bali is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, London is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, London makes for a great culinary experience. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

Is Bali or London Better for Nightlife?

Both Bali and London are fantastic 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.

London is a must-see party destination. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

Is Bali or London Better for Music?

London is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Bali is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in London Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Bali is not a live music destination.

Is Bali or London Better for Resorts?

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

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Bali is a perfect 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.

London is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or London Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Bali is not to be missed. 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.

London is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or London Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Bali is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

London is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or London Better for Hiking?

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

London is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or London?

London 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 London make it a world-class shopping destination. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

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 London Better for Christmas?

London is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Bali does not offer Christmas activities.

London is a world class destination during the Christmas season. There's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful Christmas lights throughout the city. You can also listen to Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square or see a classic Christmas show.

Bali does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Bali or London Better for Christmas Markets?

London is a must-visit destination for its Christmas markets. However, Bali does not offer Christmas markets.

The active Christmas markets during the holiday season make London very popular during this season. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Bali does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Bali or London Better for Families?

London 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.

London is one of the most popular family destinations. Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.

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 London Better for Couples?

Both Bali and London are fantastic 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.

London has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.

Is Bali or London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Bali and London are fantastic 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 London, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.

Is Bali or London Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit London. The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.

Bali is not popular with students.

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

London 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.

London has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout 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 London a more walkable city?

London 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 London on foot. With many walkable areas, it is considered to be one of the world's most walkable major cities.

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 London Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in London or Bali?

How long in Bali or London?

Both Bali and London have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bali than in London. Usually, 7-14 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 3-7 days is enough time in London.

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

Couples should spend more time in London than Bali. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in London that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

One day in Bali or London?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bali. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

London is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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 London?

Bali is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

London is a fun place to experience. 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 London?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bali. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With so much to do, five days is probably not enough time to see everything. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

London is a historic 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 London?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the spiritual destination of Bali. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

London is a historic city where you can fill many days. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Bali or London?

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

London 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 London in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bali as well as London. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to London this time of year.

In the summer, Bali is a little warmer than London. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bali in July average around 27°C (81°F), and London averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. In the summer, Bali often gets more sunshine than London. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 195 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets less rain in July than London. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while London receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Should I visit Bali or London in the Autumn?

Both London 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 travelers come to London for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Bali is generally much warmer than London. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and London fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. Bali usually receives more sunshine than London during autumn. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bali usually receives around the same amount of rain as London. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while London receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Bali is October to March.

Should I visit Bali or London in the Winter?

Both London 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, many visitors come to London in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

London can get quite cold in the winter. Bali is much warmer than London in the winter. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 26°C (79°F) in January, and London fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Bali often gets more sunshine than London. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 52 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets more rain in January than London. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while London receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or London in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and London. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Also, most visitors come to London for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Bali is much warmer than London. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bali in April average around 27°C (81°F), and London averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bali usually receives more sunshine than London during spring. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bali usually receives more rain than London. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while London receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Typical Weather for London and Bali