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

Should you visit Bali or Nagasaki?

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

Bali

Bali is a frequented, spiritual, and cultural island. Bali is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Bali travel costs.

Nagasaki

Nagasaki is a interesting, authentic, and welcoming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Nagasaki travel costs.

Bali and Nagasaki: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Nagasaki?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bali. Although Bali and Nagasaki are both popular with visitors, Bali has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bali is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Nagasaki is known for its museums and attractions and big city activities. Bali is more touristy than Nagasaki and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. It is also home to Pura Lempuyang. Nagasaki is popular for its history, hot spring spas, and local cuisine.

How is Bali different from Nagasaki?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Many visitors head to Nagasaki specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Nagasaki Peace Park is a moving tribute to those lost during the atomic bomb attack. Other sights around town include the Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, Kofukuji Temple, and Huis Ten Bosch.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bali is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Bali is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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, Nagasaki makes for a great culinary experience. The city has a cosmopolitan cuisine which has been influenced by China and several Western cuisines. Popular local dishes include Chanpon (a noodle dish), Sara Udon (meat, vegetables, and noodles), and Kakuni Manju (pork belly on a dough bun).

Is Bali or Nagasaki Better for Nightlife?

Bali is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

Nagasaki is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The best areas for nightlife are the Doza-machi and Shianbashi districts. Shinanbashi is filled with narrow alleys and its easy to get lost.

Is Bali or Nagasaki Better for Resorts?

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

For the ultimate resort vacation, Bali is a great 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.

Nagasaki is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Nagasaki Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

The clear water and abundant marine life make Bali a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Nagasaki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Nagasaki Better for Beaches?

Bali is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Nagasaki is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Bali. 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.

Nagasaki is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Nagasaki Better for Hiking?

Bali is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Nagasaki 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.

Nagasaki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Nagasaki?

Bali is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

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.

Nagasaki is a great destination for shopping. Head to the waterfront for the best shopping opportunities. You'll find everything from malls to souvenir shops around town. You'll also find traditional market streets which are known as shōtengai.

Is Bali or Nagasaki More Beautiful?

Bali is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Nagasaki is not a destination known for its beauty.

Bali is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches and stunning countryside. It's also a very cultural island with a lot of spirituality.

Nagasaki is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Bali or Nagasaki Better for Families?

Bali is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nagasaki. Check out Agiruno Oka Park, which has a small farm and other recreational activities. There are also several kid-friendly museums like the Nagasaki City Science Museum and the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium. There are also many parks and playgrounds as well as the Nagasaki Seaside Park.

Is Bali or Nagasaki Better for Couples?

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

Bali makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Nagasaki is a nice destination for couples. There's a unique cuisine with good restaurants. There are also many parks where couples can take a stroll, as well as relaxing hot springs nearby.

Is Bali or Nagasaki Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

A large number of backpackers visit Bali, as it is a very popular island for 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.

Nagasaki is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels in the city, but you really should make reservations in advance as they tend to fill up.

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

Nagasaki is a well-known place 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.

Public transit in Nagasaki can get you to some places easily. The city has four tram lines as well as city buses.

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 Nagasaki a more walkable city?

Nagasaki is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

Nagasaki is a somewhat walkable place. Many parts of the city can be explored by foot. The downtown is about a kilometer from Nagasaki Station and the Peace Park is several kilometers in the other direction from the station.

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 Nagasaki Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nagasaki or Bali?

How long in Bali or Nagasaki?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bali and Nagasaki. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bali than in Nagasaki. Usually, 7-14 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nagasaki.

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

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 Nagasaki. 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 Nagasaki?

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.

Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki?

Bali is a popular choice for travelers. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than five days exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the interesting destination of Nagasaki. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bali or Nagasaki?

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.

The authentic city of Nagasaki 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 Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Bali or Nagasaki?

Nagasaki has a larger population, and is about 1% larger than the population of Bali. When comparing the sizes of Bali and Nagasaki, 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 Nagasaki?

Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki in the Summer?

Both Nagasaki 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. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Nagasaki because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bali is around the same temperature as Nagasaki. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bali in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Nagasaki averages at about 27°C (81°F).

It's quite sunny in Bali. In the summer, Bali often gets more sunshine than Nagasaki. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagasaki receives 197 hours of full sun.

Nagasaki gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bali usually gets less rain in July than Nagasaki. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 334 mm (13.1 in) of rain this time of the year. April to September is the dry season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Nagasaki in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Nagasaki. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Nagasaki this time of year.

In October, Bali is generally a little warmer than Nagasaki. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Nagasaki fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Nagasaki during autumn. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Nagasaki receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Nagasaki receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Bali usually receives less rain than Nagasaki. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Nagasaki in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bali as well as Nagasaki. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Nagasaki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bali is much warmer than Nagasaki in the winter. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 26°C (79°F) in January, and Nagasaki fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Bali often gets more sunshine than Nagasaki. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagasaki receives 112 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets more rain in January than Nagasaki. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March in Bali is the rainy season.

Should I visit Bali or Nagasaki in the Spring?

Both Nagasaki and Bali are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Nagasaki in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Bali is much warmer than Nagasaki. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bali in April average around 27°C (81°F), and Nagasaki averages at about 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Nagasaki during spring. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Nagasaki receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagasaki. In April, Bali usually receives less rain than Nagasaki. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Bali is April to September.

Typical Weather for Nagasaki and Bali