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

Should you visit Bali or Portland?

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 Portland 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.

Portland

Portland is a nature-filled, scenic, and laid-back city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and hiking.

Bali and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Portland?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bali than Portland. While Portland is larger than Bali, Bali has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bali is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Portland attracts visitors for its museums, music, and small town charm. Bali is more touristy than Portland and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. It is also well known for Pura Lempuyang. Portland is famous for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

How is Bali different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Portland is a moderate city for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bali is very popular for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Bali have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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).

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Bali or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Bali is very popular for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Bali is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Bali or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is very good for its live music scene. However, Bali is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Bali is not a live music destination.

Is Bali or Portland Better for Resorts?

Bali is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Portland is not a resort destination.

Bali is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Portland Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Portland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Bali is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Portland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Portland Better for Beaches?

Bali is very popular for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

Bali is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Portland Better for Hiking?

You'll find superb hiking in both Bali and Portland.

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 Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Portland?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Bali or Portland Better for Families?

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

Bali is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Bali or Portland Better for Couples?

Bali is very popular for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Bali is a great island for couples, as it 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.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Bali or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Portland 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.

Portland is a great island to visit for backpackers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Is Bali or Portland Better for Students?

Portland is very good for students. However, Bali is not popular with students.

Portland is a good city to visit for students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Bali is not popular with students.

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

Both Bali and Portland offer nice public transit options.

Bali has a few 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.

Portland has some public transit options. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Bali or Portland a more walkable city?

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

Portland is a very walkable city. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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 Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Bali?

How long in Bali or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bali and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bali than in Portland. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

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 shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Portland. 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 Portland?

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.

Portland is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Portland?

Bali is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bali, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find live music and shopping around the laid-back destination of Portland. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bali or Portland?

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 scenic city of Portland offers shopping and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Bali or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 33% larger than the population of Bali. When comparing the sizes of Bali and Portland, 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 Portland?

Portland 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 Portland in the Summer?

Both Portland 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, many visitors come to Portland in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bali. In the summer, Bali often gets less sunshine than Portland. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year. April to September is the dry season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Portland. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Bali is much warmer than Portland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Portland during autumn. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bali usually receives less rain than Portland. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Portland in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bali as well as Portland. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Portland because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Portland can be very cold. In the winter, Bali is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bali in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Portland averages at about 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Bali often gets more sunshine than Portland. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Portland. Bali usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year. October to March in Bali is the rainy season.

Should I visit Bali or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland 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, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

In April, Bali is generally much warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Portland. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. Bali usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland during spring. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bali usually receives more rain than Portland. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Bali is April to September.

Typical Weather for Portland and Bali