A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lombok vs. Beijing for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Lombok or Beijing?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lombok and Beijing. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lombok

Lombok is a laid back, cultural, and stunning island. The famous beauty of Lombok is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Lombok travel costs.

Beijing

Beijing is a massive, jam-packed, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Beijing is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Beijing travel costs.

Lombok and Beijing: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Beijing?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beijing. Although Lombok and Beijing are both popular with visitors, Beijing has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Beijing is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Lombok is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Lombok and is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also home to The Forbidden City. Lombok is popular for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture.

How is Lombok different from Beijing?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lombok or Beijing?

Beijing is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Beijing are world-renowned. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lombok. The island has many traditional villages that let you glimpse the fascinating Sasak Tribe's culture. This is the largest tribe on the island and it makes up about 85% of the island's population. Sasak Sade Village is large and popular to visit. A visit offers a unique experience and helps you understand more about the island's culture.

Is the Food Better in Lombok or Beijing? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Beijing, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

Dining out in Lombok is an experience not to be missed. The island is considered world renowned for its Halal cuisine, and there are many popular local dishes that you should try. Ayam Taliwang is a grilled chicken dish, Satay Rembiga is grilled meat served over rice, and Bebalung is a soup that's made with goat or cow ribs.

Is Lombok or Beijing Better for Nightlife?

Beijing is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Beijing for the nightlife scene. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Lombok. While the island is quieter than nearby Bali, it does still have an active nightlife scene. In particular, head to the areas around Senggigi Beach and Kuta Lombok for the most active bars and live music. With the more populated tourist areas and hotels come the more active clubs, bars, and evening entertainment.

Is Lombok or Beijing Better for Resorts?

Lombok is a great destination for its resorts. However, Beijing is not a resort destination.

In Lombok, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The island is filled with luxury resorts, villas, and hotels. You'll want to think about your priorities before booking your hotel. There areas that are better for beaches, hiking, culture or sightseeing, and each has its own personality and style.

Beijing is not a resort destination.

Is Lombok or Beijing Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Beijing is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Lombok is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is surrounded by clear waters and colorful coral, making it a superb snorkeling and diving destination. For some of the best dive spots head to the Gili Islands. Around the island you'll find places where you can see turtles, colorful fish, and possibly even Hammerhead Sharks.

Beijing is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lombok or Beijing Better for Beaches?

Lombok is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Beijing is not a beach destination.

Lombok is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Kuta, Senggigi, and the Gili Islands offer some of the area's best beaches. Many beaches have white sand, clear water, beautiful snorkeling, or fun surfing. Mawun Beach and Pandanan Beach are among the most beautiful beaches, while Selong Belanak Beach is very photogenic with its water buffalo. Tanjung Aan Beach has surfing and Kuta Beach Lombok is the most popular beach, but not among the best.

Beijing is not a beach destination.

Is Lombok or Beijing Better for Hiking?

Lombok is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Beijing is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Lombok. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but the most well known is the three day hike to the peak of Mount Rinjani. This is the large and active volcano on the island. The hike is truly beautiful and spectacular, but it's also a challenging climb and the difficulty level should not be underestimated.

Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lombok or Beijing?

If you're looking to go shopping, Lombok and Beijing both offer plenty of very good spots.

Lombok is well-known for its shopping. There are many traditional markets and villages around the island where you can buy Sasak crafts. These items are characterized by bright colors and elaborate patterns. You'll find pottery, fabrics, clothing, and hand-woven baskets.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Is Lombok or Beijing More Beautiful?

Lombok is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Lombok is one of the main draws. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.

Is Lombok or Beijing Better for Families?

Lombok is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lombok is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The island is filled with natural beauty, waterfalls, beaches, swimming spots, traditional villages and wildlife. This makes it an idyllic destination for families, whether you're traveling with toddlers or older kids.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Lombok or Beijing Better for Couples?

Lombok is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Lombok is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The island has grown into a world renowned honeymoon destination. It has a more laid back vibe than nearby Bali, and you'll find pristine beaches and a tropical paradise. There are luxury hotels, stunning natural settings, and plenty of romantic or adventurous activities.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Lombok or Beijing Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lombok is a very popular island to visit for backpackers. This island is often compared to Bali 30 years ago. It's a much quieter island, but there are still bars and towns that attract a crowd. If you're looking for a party, then you'll likely still be able to find one, but if you want a laid back retreat, that's available as well.

Beijing is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Is Lombok or Beijing Better for Students?

Beijing is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Lombok is not popular with students.

Many students visit Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Lombok is not popular with students.

Is Lombok or Beijing Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beijing is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its public transit.

The public transit in Beijing can get you around easily. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

Public transit is generally limited in Lombok. The island is spread out, so many visitors prefer to hire a car of motorbike. There are also public buses, minibuses, and taxis available.

Is Lombok or Beijing a more walkable city?

Lombok and Beijing are decent when it comes to walkability.

Lombok is generally not a very walkable island. There are towns on the island that are relatively walkable and there are hiking and walking paths in different places.

Beijing is generally not very walkable. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Lombok Worth Visiting? and Is Beijing Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beijing or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Beijing?

Both Lombok and Beijing have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lombok than in Beijing. Usually, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beijing.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lombok than Beijing 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 Lombok.

One day in Lombok or Beijing?

In Lombok, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Beijing is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lombok or Beijing?

In Lombok, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Beijing 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.

Five days in Lombok or Beijing?

Lombok is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, five days is probably not enough for all of it. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beijing. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lombok or Beijing?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lombok. In Lombok, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one week is probably not enough time to see everything.

Beijing is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Indonesia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lombok and Beijing, we can see that Beijing is more expensive. And not only is Lombok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lombok would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lombok 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 Beijing would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Beijing than you might in Lombok.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lombok Expensive? and Is Beijing Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Lombok or Beijing?

Beijing has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Lombok experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Lombok or Beijing in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Lombok is around the same temperature as Beijing. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lombok in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Beijing averages at about 27°C (80°F).

It's quite rainy in Beijing. Lombok usually gets less rain in July than Beijing. Lombok gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, May to September in Lombok is the dry season.

Should I visit Lombok or Beijing in the Autumn?

Both Beijing and Lombok are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Lombok throughout the year. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Beijing this time of year.

In October, Lombok is generally much warmer than Beijing. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 28°C (82°F), and Beijing fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

It's quite rainy in Lombok. In October, Lombok usually receives more rain than Beijing. Lombok gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Lombok is November to April.

Should I visit Lombok or Beijing in the Winter?

Both Beijing and Lombok during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Lombok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Beijing for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Beijing. Lombok is much warmer than Beijing in the winter. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Beijing fluctuates around -4°C (26°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Lombok often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beijing. Lombok gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beijing receives 201 hours of full sun.

Lombok usually gets more rain in January than Beijing. Lombok gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lombok or Beijing in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Lombok is much warmer than Beijing. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lombok in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Beijing averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In April, Lombok usually receives more rain than Beijing. Lombok gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the spring. May to September in Lombok is the dry season. Also, November to April is the rainy season in Lombok.

Typical Weather for Beijing and Lombok