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

Should you visit Helsinki or Bali?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Helsinki and Bali can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a waterfront, active, and nature-focused city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bali

Bali is a cultural, stunning, and tropical island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Helsinki and Bali: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Bali?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bali than Helsinki. While Helsinki is larger than Bali, Bali has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bali is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Helsinki is more popular for its museums. Bali is more touristy than Helsinki and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Also, Bali is famous for Pura Lempuyang. Helsinki is well known for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

How is Helsinki different from Bali?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bali and Helsinki. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Helsinki or Bali?

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

Many visitors head to Helsinki specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Helsinki area. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Is Helsinki or Bali Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Is Helsinki or Bali Better for Resorts?

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

Helsinki is not a resort destination.

Is Helsinki or Bali Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is a world-class destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Helsinki or Bali Better for Beaches?

Bali is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is not a beach destination.

Is Helsinki or Bali Better for Hiking?

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

Helsinki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Bali?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Helsinki and Bali.

Helsinki is well-known for its shopping. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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 Helsinki or Bali Better for Families?

Both Helsinki and Bali are superb to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Helsinki is very family-friendly. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

Bali is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Helsinki or Bali Better for Couples?

Bali is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Couples visit Helsinki frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

Is Helsinki or Bali Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Bali is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Helsinki. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Is Helsinki or Bali Better for Students?

Helsinki is a well-known place for students. However, Bali is not popular with students.

Helsinki is very popular with students. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

Bali is not popular with students.

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

Helsinki 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 Helsinki can get you to some places easily. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

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 Helsinki or Bali a more walkable city?

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

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable place. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

Bali is generally not a very walkable city. 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 Helsinki Worth Visiting? and Is Bali Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bali or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Bali?

Both Helsinki and Bali 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 Helsinki. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Helsinki, and 5-7 days is enough time in Bali.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali than Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Bali?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Helsinki. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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.

A weekend in Helsinki or Bali?

Helsinki 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.

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.

Five days in Helsinki or Bali?

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

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.

A week in Helsinki or Bali?

The waterfront city of Helsinki 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Helsinki and Bali, we can see that Helsinki is more expensive. And not only is Bali much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Helsinki is in Europe and Bali is in Asia, 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 Helsinki would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Helsinki 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 Helsinki Expensive? and Is Bali Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Bali?

Helsinki has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Bali. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki and Bali, 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 Helsinki or Bali?

Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Bali in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Bali. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year.

Helsinki is much colder than Bali in the summer. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Bali fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Helsinki this time of the year. In the summer, Helsinki often gets more sunshine than Bali. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bali receives 253 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Helsinki or Bali in the Autumn?

Both Bali and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the autumn, Helsinki is much colder than Bali. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Helsinki in October average around 6°C (42°F), and Bali averages at about 27°C (81°F).

It's quite sunny in Bali. Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Bali during autumn. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Bali receives 266 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Helsinki usually receives more rain than Bali. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bali receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Bali is October to March.

Should I visit Helsinki or Bali in the Winter?

Both Bali and Helsinki during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round.

The weather in Helsinki can be very cold. In January, Helsinki is generally much colder than Bali. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around -6°C (21°F), and Bali fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In the winter, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Bali. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bali receives 170 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in January than Bali. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bali receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Helsinki or Bali in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Bali. The natural beauty are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

It's quite cold in Helsinki in the spring. Helsinki is much colder than Bali in the spring. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 3°C (37°F) in April, and Bali fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Bali during spring. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Bali receives 226 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Bali. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bali receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Bali and Helsinki