A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nagano vs. Gili Trawangan for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Nagano or Gili Trawangan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nagano and Gili Trawangan 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.

Nagano

Nagano is a scenic, historic, and traditional city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of Nagano is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Nagano travel costs.

Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is a idyllic, laidback, and tropical island. The beauty of Gili Trawangan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, nightlife, and food. See Gili Trawangan travel costs.

Nagano and Gili Trawangan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagano or Gili Trawangan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nagano than Gili Trawangan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nagano is better known for its skiing, museums and attractions, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Gili Trawangan is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Gili Trawangan is more touristy than Nagano and is known for its beautiful water and impressive scuba diving. Nagano is well known for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. Also, Nagano is famous for Zenko-ji Temple.

How is Nagano different from Gili Trawangan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nagano or Gili Trawangan Better for Skiing?

Nagano is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Gili Trawangan is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Nagano. The city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and many of the skiing events were held at ski resorts in the area. In the Nagano Prefecture you'll find several ski resorts with some of the most popular being the Hakuba ski areas, Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, and Myoko Kogen.

Gili Trawangan is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nagano or Gili Trawangan?

Nagano is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Gili Trawangan is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Nagano specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The area is filled with history and there are many places to explore. Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, Zenko-ji Temple, and Togakushi Shrine are just some of the highlights.

Gili Trawangan offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of art and cultural museums on the island, but most people spend their time soaking up the idyllic setting.

Is the Food Better in Nagano or Gili Trawangan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Nagano and Gili Trawangan.

Nagano has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find many of Japan's culinary favorites here like ramen, udon, sushi, and sashimi. There are also regional dishes and some comfort food like Tonkatsu and Oyaki Dumplings.

Dining out in Gili Trawangan is an experience not to be missed. As the largest and one of the most touristy of the Gili Islands, you'll find a wide range of cuisines. There's everything from Mexican to Greek available. You'll also find plenty of tropical fruits and some local Indonesian cuisine as well.

Is Nagano or Gili Trawangan Better for Nightlife?

Gili Trawangan is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Gili Trawangan is a must-see party destination. This is the "party island" of the Gili Islands. It has a wild nightlife scene that is particularly popular with backpackers. There are tons of beach bars that have live music, DJs, and nightly parties. There are also regular boat parties. The party scene is pretty well coordinated across the bars, and one bar will stay open late each night while the others close around midnight. This keeps the partygoers concentrated in one location and keeps the energy high for everyone.

Nagano offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is varied, from local and intimate venues, to wild and crazy clubs. You'll find all styles and activities such that whatever you're looking for, the city likely won't disappoint.

Is Nagano or Gili Trawangan Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Nagano and Gili Trawangan have notable options.

With a selection of resorts, Nagano makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

Gili Trawangan has a few great resort options. The island was long known for its backpacker vibe which included poorly concentrated beach huts. More recently there's been an upswing in upmarket accommodation, particularly on the quieter western and northern sides of the island.

Is Nagano or Gili Trawangan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Gili Trawangan is terrific for its diving and snorkeling. However, Nagano is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Gili Trawangan is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. Snorkeling and diving are a highlight on the island, and a big draw for many visitors. The island is small, with a large concentration of tourists, so if you book a boat trip, you'll likely be surrounded by others. This doesn't mean you won't be able to enjoy colorful fish, a magical undersea world, and the occasional sea turtle.

Nagano is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nagano or Gili Trawangan Better for Beaches?

Gili Trawangan is terrific for the beach. However, Nagano is not a beach destination.

Gili Trawangan is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is filled with white sand beaches, most of which have restaurants and beachside bars nearby. One of the busiest beaches is near the port, but a quieter area is nearby Surf Point. The sunset side of the island is perfect in the evening when the sun starts to dip below the horizon, but the beaches on that side aren't as great as the other side of the island.

Nagano is not a beach destination.

Is Nagano or Gili Trawangan Better for its Old Town?

Nagano is very good for its old town. However, Gili Trawangan does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Nagano. Throughout the prefecture there is a lot of history and charming towns. If you're willing to get out of Nagano City, you can enjoy an area filled with tradition and culture. In particular, Tsumago-juku was the first preserved old town in Japan.

Gili Trawangan does not have a historic old town.

Is Nagano or Gili Trawangan Better for Hiking?

Nagano is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Gili Trawangan is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Nagano. The surrounding area is filled with stunning scenery, natural beauty, and beautiful hikes. You'll find shrines and temples, historic villages, nice views, and peaceful walks throughout the region. One of the most unique walks is along the highest road in Japan, the Norikura Echo Line. The route is at 8,800 feet and is lined with ten meter high snow walls. It's open from from late April to the end of June every year.

Gili Trawangan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagano or Gili Trawangan?

Nagano is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Gili Trawangan is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Nagano. There are a number of shopping streets that are fun to explore including the historic street of Naka-mise. This street is lined with tea shops, cafes, traditional stores, and more. While there aren't a huge number of shopping centers around town, Midori Nagano is one of the biggest.

Gili Trawangan has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find most things you need on the island, but this isn't a place people usually shop for fun.

Is Nagano or Gili Trawangan More Beautiful?

Nagano and Gili Trawangan are somewhat similar when it comes to the superb scenery.

The beauty of Nagano is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city is found in a beautiful part of Japan. It's surrounded by mountains and filled with history and historic sights.

With stunning beauty, Gili Trawangan attracts visitors from all around. Crystal blue waters and white sand beaches make this an idyllic island paradise. The setting is perfect for hanging out by the water and soaking up the island vibe.

Is Nagano or Gili Trawangan Better for Families?

Both Nagano and Gili Trawangan are superb to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nagano is very family-friendly. Chibikko Ninja Village is a great place for kids with climbing walls, indoor playgrounds, and more. There are also a number of sports facilities around town, and you can keep the sport theme going with a visit to the Nagano Olympic Museum. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Nagano Chausuyama Zoo and for little kids, the Nagano City Joyama Zoo is nice.

Gili Trawangan is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are many kid-friendly activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and biking. There are also glass bottom boat tours and a great laidback island vibe that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Do note that this is one of the more popular islands for backpackers, so there is a big party scene.

Is Nagano or Gili Trawangan Better for Couples?

Gili Trawangan is a great island for its romantic activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Gili Trawangan is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. White sand, blue water, and a true tropical island paradise make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. It's one of the more energetic of the Gili Islands, so if you're looking for a calm retreat, there may be better options, but it still has wonderful resorts and great diving.

Nagano is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a lot of history and beauty, making it a romantic destination for couples. There are also outdoor activities as well as a number of sports that you can enjoy.

Is Nagano or Gili Trawangan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Gili Trawangan is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Gili Trawangan is extremely popular for backpackers. It's the most popular of the Gili Islands for backpackers so you'll find tons of hostels and a great nightlife scene. The energy is high and the scenery and idyllic beaches are wonderful.

Plenty of backpackers visit Nagano. There are several good hostels in the area, as well as some great activities for young travelers, backpackers, and sports enthusiasts.

Is Nagano or Gili Trawangan Better for Students?

Nagano is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Gili Trawangan is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Nagano. It's relative affordability combined with its close proximity to Tokyo and laid back populations make this a nice place to study.

Gili Trawangan is not popular with students.

Is Nagano or Gili Trawangan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nagano and Gili Trawangan both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Nagano offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The main station in town is Nagano Station. There's a bus and train system through the area, including buses that run to Zenkoji Temple. There's also a bus that goes to the Togakushi area and takes about an hour. However, renting a car will give you more freedom and efficiency. .

Gili Trawangan has a few public transit options. Many tourists enjoy getting around the island by cidomo, which are horse-drawn carts. Otherwise, walking or biking are your best options.

Is Nagano or Gili Trawangan a more walkable city?

Gili Trawangan is a great island for its high level of walkability. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Gili Trawangan is a very walkable island. While it's the largest of the Gili Islands, it still small enough to walk around in about two hours and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

Nagano is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable and there are hiking trails around the Togakushi area, where you'll find many shrines and other attractions.

For even more information, also check out Is Nagano Worth Visiting? and Is Gili Trawangan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gili Trawangan or Nagano?

How long in Nagano or Gili Trawangan?

It's fun to spend time in either Nagano or Gili Trawangan. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Gili Trawangan due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Nagano, and 2-4 days is enough time in Gili Trawangan.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gili Trawangan than Nagano 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 Gili Trawangan.

One day in Nagano or Gili Trawangan?

In Nagano, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Gili Trawangan. 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 Nagano or Gili Trawangan?

Nagano is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Gili Trawangan 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 Nagano or Gili Trawangan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nagano. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Gili Trawangan. 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 Nagano or Gili Trawangan?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Nagano. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the laidback destination of Gili Trawangan. This island 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, 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 Nagano and Gili Trawangan, we can see that Nagano is more expensive. And not only is Gili Trawangan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Gili Trawangan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Gili Trawangan 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 Nagano would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nagano than you might in Gili Trawangan.

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