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

Should you visit Lombok or Ise?

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 Ise. 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. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Lombok travel costs.

Ise

Ise is a overlooked, authentic, and off-the-beaten-path city. Visitors also love the museums, food, and beaches. See Ise travel costs.

Lombok and Ise: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Ise?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lombok than Ise, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lombok is more touristy than Ise and is popular for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. Also, Lombok is famous for Mount Rinjani. Ise is well known for its important Shinto shrines and its coastal setting.

How is Lombok different from Ise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Ise. While this is an often overlooked part of Japan for tourists, those who venture here will enjoy strolling through the forest and visiting the shrine complex of Ise Jingu.

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

Foodies will find both Lombok and Ise both to be very good destinations.

Lombok has a huge number of terrific 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.

Dining out in Ise is an experience not to be missed. You'll find some of Japan's best seafood around town and there are many local delicacies. Head to the downtown area around Iseshi Station to find a high concentration of places. One local specialty is the Japanese spiny lobster (also known as the Ise lobster).

Is Lombok or Ise Better for Nightlife?

Lombok is a island with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Ise is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Lombok has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Ise doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Most visitors don't stay long enough to take in the nightlife, which is limited.

Is Lombok or Ise Better for Resorts?

Lombok is well known for its resorts. However, Ise 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.

Ise is not a resort destination.

Is Lombok or Ise Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Ise 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.

Ise is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lombok or Ise Better for Beaches?

Lombok is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Ise is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

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.

Ise offers a nice beach destination. There are several nice and sandy beaches in the area that make for a nice break from the sightseeing.

Is Lombok or Ise Better for Hiking?

Lombok is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Ise 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.

Ise is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lombok or Ise?

Lombok is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ise is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Ise has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a shopping street in town with many of the shops housed in traditional buildings, giving the area a nice character.

Is Lombok or Ise More Beautiful?

Lombok is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Ise is not a destination known for its 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.

Ise is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lombok or Ise Better for Families?

Lombok is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ise is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lombok is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Ise offers lots of family activities. The Ise Jingu Shrine complex is large and sprawling, and has the feel of a park. The kids will likely find visiting all of the temples tedious, but the forest is peaceful and the setting is beautiful.

Is Lombok or Ise Better for Couples?

Lombok is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Ise is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Ise is a good island for couples to visit. This is an off-the-beaten path destination that is far more than a shrine - it's a complex of shrines. It's spread out over a large space and filled with forest and peaceful walks that couples will enjoy.

Is Lombok or Ise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Ise is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ise. It's off the radar for many backpackers, but those that make it here will find a couple of hostels and affordable accommodation options.

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

Ise 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 Ise offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The CAN Bus is a tourist bus that connects the train stations to the main attractions and runs every half hour.

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 Ise a more walkable city?

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

Ise is a somewhat walkable place. There are walking paths through the complex that connect the shrines, but some of the distances can be significant.

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 Ise Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ise or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Ise?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lombok and Ise. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lombok than in Ise. Usually, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ise.

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

With museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Lombok, there's plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Ise. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lombok or Ise?

Many people visit Lombok for a weekend. With nightlife and food around the laid back island of Lombok, there's plenty to do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Ise 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 Ise?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Lombok, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, five days is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ise. 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 Ise?

Lombok, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Your budget might influence how long you stay. With so much to do, one week is probably not enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the off-the-beaten-path destination of Ise. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Japan, and The Best Cultural Tours in Japan.

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

When is the best time to visit Lombok or Ise?

Ise 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 Ise in the Summer?

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

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

It's quite rainy in Ise. Lombok usually gets less rain in July than Ise. Lombok gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Ise receives 219 mm (8.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, May to September in Lombok is the dry season.

Should I visit Lombok or Ise in the Autumn?

Both Ise 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 shopping scene are the main draw to Ise this time of year.

In the autumn, Lombok is much warmer than Ise. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lombok in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Ise averages at about 17°C (63°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ise. It's quite rainy in Lombok. In October, Lombok usually receives less rain than Ise. Lombok gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Ise receives 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Lombok is November to April.

Should I visit Lombok or Ise in the Winter?

Both Ise 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. Also, many travelers come to Ise for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ise. In January, Lombok is generally much warmer than Ise. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 28°C (82°F), and Ise fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Lombok often gets more sunshine than Ise. Lombok gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ise receives 165 hours of full sun.

Lombok usually gets more rain in January than Ise. Lombok gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Ise receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lombok or Ise in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lombok and Ise. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Lombok year-round. Also, many visitors come to Ise in the spring for the beaches.

Lombok is much warmer than Ise in the spring. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Ise fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Ise receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Lombok usually receives less rain than Ise. Lombok gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Ise receives 149 mm (5.9 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 Ise and Lombok