A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Phuket vs. Bali for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Should you visit Phuket or Bali?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Bali, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Phuket

Phuket is a party-hard, stunning, and activity-filled resort island. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Bali

Bali is a lush, frequented, and spiritual island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Phuket and Bali: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Bali?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bali than Phuket. Bali is bigger than Phuket, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Phuket is well known for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. Bali is well known for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Also, Bali is famous for Pura Lempuyang.

How is Phuket different from Bali?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in Phuket or Bali? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Bali is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

Phuket is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Because it served as an international port for so long, food around the island has many international influences. For the most authentic local food, head into Phuket Town. Many dishes include seafood, but there are also chicken curries and noodle soup. Like elsewhere in Thailand, the food can be quite spicy but because the island is so touristy, they're accustomed to people asking for "no spice."

Is Phuket or Bali Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Phuket or Bali has a better nightlife scene.

Phuket has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The island has a long running reputation as a party destination and it lives up to expectations. The biggest party area is Patong, particularly around Bangla Road, but even in Kata and Karon, it's hard to escape the party atmosphere.

Bali is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

Is Phuket or Bali Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, terrific resorts can be found in both Phuket and Bali.

Phuket offers an unforgettable resort vacation. It's easy accessibility and larger size make this the premiere resort destination in Thailand. There are five star resorts, family-friendly resorts, and everything in between. Many people use the island as a base for exploring other nearby islands. Any resort or tour company can arrange excursions or activities for guests.

Bali is a world class resort vacation destination. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Is Phuket or Bali Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.

People travel to Bali specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Phuket is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. You can dive and snorkel year round, but the visibility is usually best between November and May. There are countless boat tours available and the easy accessibility make this a good base for snorkeling and diving. Many areas are overrun with tourists though, so it'll be hard to find a quiet, undisturbed location.

Is Phuket or Bali Better for Beaches?

Both Phuket and Bali have terrific beaches worth visiting.

The beaches in Phuket are among the best in the world. The island has more than 30 beaches to choose from, ranging from party hard areas to a few quieter gems in more remote locations. The area became a world-famous destination because of its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, and the beaches will not disappoint, even if development has taken over the island.

Bali is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

Is Phuket or Bali Better for Hiking?

Bali is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Phuket is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Bali. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Bali?

Bali is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Bali is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

Phuket has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping malls offer a range of stores, air conditioning, and fixed prices while markets have more local items and unique souvenirs. There are also galleries and other souvenir shops all over the island.

Is Phuket or Bali Better for Families?

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

Bali is a very kid-friendly island. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

Phuket offers lots of family activities. Many people visit this island with kids because it has beautiful beaches and tons of activities including water sports, water parks, and amusement areas. The island is filled with a diversity of tourists, so you'll encounter a number of areas with party-hard atmospheres, but there are also tons of family-friendly resorts to choose from as well.

Is Phuket or Bali Better for Couples?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Bali has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

Phuket is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. The island is filled with beautiful beaches and plenty of activities for all travel styles. It's a tourist and party mecca in Thailand with many resorts and restaurants to choose from.

Is Phuket or Bali Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for backpackers. However, Phuket is a resort island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Bali. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

Phuket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It has a long history as a party island with expensive prices and hordes of tourists. Many backpackers complain about the lack of authenticity and prefer to spend their time elsewhere.

Is Phuket or Bali Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Phuket and Bali.

You'll find some public transit in Phuket, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.

While Bali offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Is Phuket or Bali a more walkable city?

Phuket is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

Phuket is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the hotels and resorts are walking distance to the beach and many resort areas are small enough to be explored on foot.

Bali is generally not a very walkable resort island. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Phuket Worth Visiting? and Is Bali Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bali or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Bali?

Both Phuket and Bali have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Bali has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bali than Phuket. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Phuket, and 5-7 days is enough time in Bali.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali than Phuket 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 Bali.

One day in Phuket or Bali?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Phuket. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bali. 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 Phuket or Bali?

Phuket is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bali 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 Phuket or Bali?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the activity-filled destination of Phuket. This resort island offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bali. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Phuket or Bali?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the activity-filled resort island of Phuket. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the stunning destination of Bali. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand, 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 Phuket and Bali, we can see that Phuket is more expensive. And not only is Bali much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bali would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bali 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 Phuket would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Phuket than you might in Bali.

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

Which is Bigger, Phuket or Bali?

Bali has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Phuket. When comparing the sizes of Phuket and Bali, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Phuket or Bali?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Phuket or Bali in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Phuket and Bali. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Phuket year-round. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

April to September in Bali is the dry season. Phuket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Phuket usually receives more rain than Bali. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Bali receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. In Phuket, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phuket usually receives less sunshine than Bali during summer. Phuket gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Bali receives 253 hours of full sun in the summer.

Phuket is around the same temperature as Bali in the summer. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Bali fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Phuket or Bali in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Phuket as well as Bali. Phuket attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year.

Also, December to March in Phuket is the dry season. June to October in Phuket is the rainy season. October to March in Bali is the rainy season. Phuket receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Phuket usually gets more rain in October than Bali. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Bali receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. In the autumn, Phuket often gets less sunshine than Bali. Phuket gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bali receives 266 hours of full sun.

In the autumn, Phuket is around the same temperature as Bali. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Phuket in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Bali averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Phuket or Bali in the Winter?

Both Bali and Phuket are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Phuket throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Phuket is December to March. The rainy season in Bali is October to March. In January, Phuket usually receives less rain than Bali. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Bali receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Bali during winter. Phuket gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Bali receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Phuket is generally around the same temperature as Bali. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 28°C (82°F), and Bali fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Phuket or Bali in the Spring?

Both Bali and Phuket during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Phuket because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round.

June to October is the rainy season in Phuket. April to September is the dry season in Bali. It rains a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually gets more rain in April than Bali. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Bali receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Phuket. In the spring, Phuket often gets more sunshine than Bali. Phuket gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bali receives 226 hours of full sun.

Phuket is around the same temperature as Bali in the spring. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 29°C (84°F) in April, and Bali fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Typical Weather for Bali and Phuket