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

Should you visit Bali or Paris?

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

Bali

Bali is a tropical, lush, and frequented island. Many visitors also come to Bali because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Bali travel costs.

Paris

Paris is a bustling, energetic, and beautiful 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 in Paris as well. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife. See Paris travel costs.

Bali and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Paris?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paris than Bali. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Paris is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Bali attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Bali is famous for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Paris is famous for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also well known for The Eiffel Tower.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Bali different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Paris are among the most recognizable in the world. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Bali or Paris Better for Theater?

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

The theater scene in Paris is world-class. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Bali is not a theatre destination.

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

Both Bali and Paris offer a number of world-class 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, Paris is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Is Bali or Paris Better for Nightlife?

Both Bali and Paris are world-class 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.

Paris is a must-see party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Is Bali or Paris Better for Music?

Paris 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 Paris Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Bali is not a live music destination.

Is Bali or Paris Better for Resorts?

Bali is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Paris Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is terrific for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Paris Better for Beaches?

Bali is terrific for its beaches. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Paris Better for Hiking?

Bali is great for hiking. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Paris?

Paris 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 Paris make it a world-class shopping destination. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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 Paris Better for Christmas?

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

Paris is a world class destination during the Christmas season. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Bali does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Bali or Paris More Beautiful?

Bali and Paris are somewhat similar when it comes to the world-class 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.

Paris is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It is famous for it's beautiful buildings, grand avenues, and impressive gardens. Many consider it among the most romantic and beautiful cities in the world.

Is Bali or Paris Better for Families?

Paris 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.

Paris is one of the most popular family destinations. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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 Paris Better for Couples?

Both Bali and Paris are world-class 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.

Paris has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

Is Bali or Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Bali and Paris are world-class 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 Paris, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Is Bali or Paris Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Bali is not popular with students.

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

Paris 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.

Paris has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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 Paris a more walkable city?

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

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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 Paris Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Paris or Bali?

How long in Bali or Paris?

Both Bali and Paris 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 Paris. Usually, 7-14 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris 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 Paris.

One day in Bali or Paris?

In Bali, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this spiritual 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.

Paris 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 Paris?

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.

Paris 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 Paris?

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.

Paris is a beautiful 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 Paris?

In Bali, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this cultural 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.

Paris is a iconic 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Bali or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Bali. When comparing the sizes of Bali and Paris, 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 Paris?

Paris 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 Paris in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bali as well as Paris. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Paris because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bali is generally a little warmer than Paris. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paris. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. In the summer, Bali often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Paris. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets less rain in July than Paris. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Should I visit Bali or Paris in the Autumn?

Both Paris 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, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

Bali is much warmer than Paris in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Paris fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Paris during autumn. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bali usually receives more rain than Paris. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Bali is October to March.

Should I visit Bali or Paris in the Winter?

Both Paris 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Paris. In the winter, Bali is much warmer than Paris. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bali in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Paris averages at about 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Bali often gets more sunshine than Paris. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets more rain in January than Paris. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Paris in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Paris. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Paris in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Bali is generally much warmer than Paris. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Paris during spring. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bali usually receives more rain than Paris. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Paris and Bali