A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lombok vs. Darwin for Beaches, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Lombok or Darwin?

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 Darwin. 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 stunning, peaceful, and laid back island. You'll find world class beauty in Lombok as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Lombok travel costs.

Darwin

Darwin is a local, tropical, and multicultural town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Darwin travel costs.

Lombok and Darwin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Darwin?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lombok than Darwin, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lombok is more touristy than Darwin and is popular for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. Also, Lombok is famous for Mount Rinjani. Darwin is well known for its outdoor markets and tropical weather.

How is Lombok different from Darwin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Lombok and Darwin.

Lombok offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Darwin. You can check out the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, explore the city's Waterfront Precinct, and spend some time at the Darwin Military Museum.

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

Lombok is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Lombok. 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.

Darwin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are plenty of local restaurants that serve seafood or local twists on international flavors. Many restaurants offer Barramundi that is prepared in unique ways. You can try the Barramundi Bibimbap or the Crispy Baby Barramundi.

Is Lombok or Darwin Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both Lombok and Darwin.

If you're looking for night time activities Lombok has a few options to choose from. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Darwin. You'll find the most bars along Mitchell Street or in the Waterfront Precinct area. There are also some popular nightclubs and music venues in town.

Is Lombok or Darwin Better for Resorts?

Lombok is notable for its resorts. However, Darwin is not a resort destination.

Lombok is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Darwin is not a resort destination.

Is Lombok or Darwin Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is terrific for its diving and snorkeling. However, Darwin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Lombok specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Darwin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lombok or Darwin Better for Beaches?

Lombok is terrific for the beach. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

The beaches in Lombok are among the best in the world. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Darwin. Most people don't swim at the beaches because of the saltwater crocodiles and jellyfish. You can hang out in the sand though and Mindil Beach is a favorite spot for locals.

Is Lombok or Darwin Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Lombok and Darwin, and they are great.

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.

Darwin is a popular spot for hiking. In addition to city walks, there are many national parks that make great day trips from town. Litchfield National Park has many hikes as does Mary River National Park. The town is also known as the gateway to Kakadu National Park.

Is the Shopping Better in Lombok or Darwin?

Lombok is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

Lombok is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Darwin has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are shopping malls, art galleries, and trendy boutiques around town.

Is Lombok or Darwin More Beautiful?

Lombok is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Darwin is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Lombok as well. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

Darwin is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lombok or Darwin Better for Families?

Both Lombok and Darwin are great 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.

Darwin is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in town and in the surrounding areas. There are wildlife parks and several national parks in the area like Litchfield National Park. For many families, this is a stop off on there way to Kakadu National Park.

Is Lombok or Darwin Better for Couples?

Lombok is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Lombok has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Darwin is a good island for couples to visit. The beautiful weather means that you can spend most of your time outdoors. Sunset picnics are popular, but for many visitors, it's all about the day trips to nearby parks.

Is Lombok or Darwin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is terrific for backpackers. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Lombok. 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.

Darwin is a good island to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels in town that make this an easy place to spend a night or two for backpackers.

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

Darwin 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 Darwin offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are public buses around town. There's also a waterfront shuttle.

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 Darwin a more walkable city?

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

Darwin is a somewhat walkable place. There are biking and walking paths around town.

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 Darwin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Darwin or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Darwin?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Lombok. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Darwin. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lombok or Darwin?

Lombok 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.

Darwin 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 Darwin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lombok. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With so much to do, five days is probably not enough time to see everything. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Darwin. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Darwin?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid back destination of Lombok. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One week is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Darwin. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in 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 Luxury Tours to Australia, and The Best Adventure Tours to Australia.

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

When is the best time to visit Lombok or Darwin?

Darwin 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 Darwin in the Summer?

Both Darwin and Lombok during the summer 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 Darwin for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Lombok is around the same temperature as Darwin in the summer. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Darwin fluctuates around 29°C (83°F)in January.

Darwin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lombok usually gets less rain in July than Darwinin January. Lombok gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 437 mm (17.2 in) of rain this time of the year. May to September is the dry season in Lombok.

Should I visit Lombok or Darwin in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lombok and Darwin. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Lombok year-round. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Darwin because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Lombok is around the same temperature as Darwin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lombok in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Darwin averages at about 29°C (84°F)in April.

Lombok gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lombok usually receives more rain than Darwinin April. Lombok gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, November to April is the rainy season in Lombok.

Should I visit Lombok or Darwin in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lombok as well as Darwin. Lombok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Darwin this time of year.

In January, Lombok is generally a little warmer than Darwinin July. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 28°C (82°F), and Darwin fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Darwin. In the winter, Lombok often gets less sunshine than Darwinin July. Lombok gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Darwin receives 312 hours of full sun.

Lombok usually gets more rain in January than Darwinin July. Lombok gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lombok or Darwin in the Spring?

Both Darwin and Lombok are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Lombok throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Darwin for the beaches.

Lombok is around the same temperature as Darwin in the spring. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Darwin fluctuates around 29°C (85°F)in October.

In April, Lombok usually receives more rain than Darwinin October. Lombok gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Lombok is May to September. The rainy season in Lombok is November to April.

Typical Weather for Darwin and Lombok