A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lombok vs. Brisbane for Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Lombok or Brisbane?

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 Brisbane. 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 cultural, stunning, and peaceful island. Many visitors also come to Lombok because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Lombok travel costs.

Brisbane

Brisbane is a diverse, cultural, and active coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Brisbane travel costs.

Lombok and Brisbane: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Brisbane?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brisbane. Although Lombok and Brisbane are both popular with visitors, Brisbane has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Brisbane is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and big city activities, while Lombok is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lombok is more touristy than Brisbane and is known for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. Brisbane is popular for its sports culture, beautiful weather, and outdoor areas. It is also home to the Cultural Centre.

How is Lombok different from Brisbane?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Brisbane is great for its historical sights. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Brisbane. The Cultural Centre is where you'll find many of the city's museums. It sits on the banks of the Brisbane River and is home to the State Library of Queensland, the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, and Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art. This is also where you'll find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Also popular is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Wheel of Brisbane.

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 Brisbane? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lombok is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Lombok has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Brisbane offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the standard eateries around town, with casual cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and some fine dining experiences to choose from.

Is Lombok or Brisbane Better for Nightlife?

Brisbane 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 Brisbane for the nightlife scene. Fortitude Valley is the entertainment district in the city, and it really comes to life at night. There are also many venues that take advantage of the beautiful weather with outdoor and rooftop bars.

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 Brisbane Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Lombok. 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.

Brisbane is not a resort destination.

Is Lombok or Brisbane Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Lombok is not to be missed. 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.

Brisbane has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some good snorkeling and diving spots near the city. One of the best is the Tangalooma Wrecks off Moreton Island.

Is Lombok or Brisbane Better for Beaches?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Lombok is a very popular vacation 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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Brisbane. For the best beaches, you'll want to take a day trip out of town, but there are also some nice beaches right by the city. About 30 minutes from town is family-friend Suttons Beach, or you can stay in the city center and check out the man-made Streets Beach. Shorncliffe Beach is another option that's less than a half hour from town.

Is Lombok or Brisbane Better for Hiking?

Lombok is great for hiking. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Lombok for the hiking trails. 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.

Brisbane has hiking trails worth exploring. There are a number of hikes outside of town that you can enjoy as a day trip. Check out the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Keperra Bushland Reserve, or D'Aguilar National Park to the north of town. To the south is Toohey Forest Park, Springwood Conservation Park , and Venmans Bushland National Park.

Is the Shopping Better in Lombok or Brisbane?

If you're looking to go shopping, Lombok and Brisbane both offer plenty of high quality 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 Brisbane. It's one of the most popular cities for retail therapy in Queensland. Queen Street Mall is an open air shopping mall and James Street is a favorite shopping street in town.

Is Lombok or Brisbane More Beautiful?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Brisbane is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Lombok because of it's amazing beauty. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

Brisbane is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lombok or Brisbane Better for Families?

Both Lombok and Brisbane are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lombok is very family-friendly. 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.

Brisbane is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary or White Ridge Farm. And, of course, you should take a ride on the iconic Wheel of Brisbane. If you're willing to head out of town you can visit the fun Tangalooma Island Resort. Streets Beach is also fun to visit.

Is Lombok or Brisbane Better for Couples?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Lombok 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.

Brisbane is a nice destination for couples. The waterfront setting and romantic restaurants offer a nice getaway for couples. There are many outdoor spaces that are fun to explore as well.

Is Lombok or Brisbane Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Brisbane. Many backpackers breeze through Brisbane in favor of other nearby destinations, but there are actually a number of hostels in town and some interesting things to do.

Is Lombok or Brisbane Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Brisbane. Many students appreciate the local vibe, warm weather, and excellent education opportunities that the city offers.

Lombok is not popular with students.

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

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

While Brisbane offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses, trains, and ferries around town, but many people prefer to have their own vehicle. Ferries are the most fun and scenic way to get around.

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 Brisbane a more walkable city?

Brisbane is great for its high level of walkability. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Brisbane is a very walkable coastal city. There's a good network of paths that make parts of the city walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Brisbane or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Brisbane?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lombok and Brisbane. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lombok than in Brisbane. Usually, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 2-3 days is enough time in Brisbane.

Families should spend more time in Lombok than Brisbane. 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 Brisbane. 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 Brisbane 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 Brisbane?

The beautiful island of Lombok offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Brisbane. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lombok or Brisbane?

Lombok 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.

Brisbane is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lombok or Brisbane?

Lombok 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brisbane. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lombok or Brisbane?

Lombok is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one week is probably not enough for all of it. This island offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxed destination of Brisbane. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Indonesia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia.

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

When is the best time to visit Lombok or Brisbane?

Brisbane 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 Brisbane in the Summer?

Both Brisbane and Lombok are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Lombok throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Brisbane in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lombok is around the same temperature as Brisbane. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lombok in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Brisbane averages at about 25°C (77°F)in January.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. In July, Lombok usually receives less rain than Brisbanein January. Lombok gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 169 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer. The dry season in Lombok is May to September.

Should I visit Lombok or Brisbane in the Autumn?

Both Brisbane and Lombok during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Lombok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Brisbane for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Lombok is generally a little warmer than Brisbanein April. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 28°C (82°F), and Brisbane fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

Brisbane gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Lombok. Lombok usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Brisbanein April. Lombok gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the rainy season in Lombok.

Should I visit Lombok or Brisbane in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lombok and Brisbane. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Lombok year-round. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Brisbane because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lombok is much warmer than Brisbane in the winter. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Brisbane fluctuates around 15°C (59°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Brisbane this time of the year. Lombok usually receives less sunshine than Brisbane during winter. Lombok gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Brisbane receives 226 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lombok usually receives more rain than Brisbanein July. Lombok gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lombok or Brisbane in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lombok as well as Brisbane. Lombok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Brisbane this time of year.

In the spring, Lombok is a little warmer than Brisbane. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lombok in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Brisbane averages at about 21°C (69°F)in October.

Lombok usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Brisbanein October. Lombok gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, May to September in Lombok is the dry season. November to April in Lombok is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Brisbane and Lombok