A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Phuket vs. Ubud for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Phuket or Ubud?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Ubud, 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 activity-filled, energetic, and party-hard resort island. Phuket offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Phuket travel costs.

Ubud

Ubud is a popular, famous, and cultural town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Ubud is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food. See Ubud travel costs.

Phuket and Ubud: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Phuket or Ubud?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Phuket. Although Phuket and Ubud are both popular with visitors, Phuket has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Phuket is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Ubud is known for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, shopping, and small town charm. Phuket is popular for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. It is also home to The Seated Maravija Buddha Statue (Big Buddha). Ubud is popular for its cultural and religious sites, dramatic rice paddies, and local handicrafts.

How is Phuket different from Ubud?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Phuket or Ubud?

Phuket
Ubud

Ubud is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Ubud can be an interesting and educational experience. The town is filled with temples and cultural sights such as the Ubud Monkey Forest, Goa Gajah (the Elephant Cave), the Ubud Royal Palace, and the Blanco Renaissance Museum.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Phuket
Ubud

Ubud is an amazing town 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, Ubud is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. You'll find some of the best restaurants on Bali in this town. There is everything from family-owned eateries to award winning restaurants. Dishes range from vegan to meat-filled and you'll find both local favorites and western cuisine.

Phuket has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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 Ubud Better for Nightlife?

Phuket
Ubud

Phuket is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

People head to Phuket just to party. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Ubud has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is mostly focused on cultural activities and live music. Many people head here to escape the party scene that is so popular elsewhere on the island.

Is Phuket or Ubud Better for Resorts?

Phuket
Ubud

With a similar set of options, world-class resorts can be found in both Phuket and Ubud.

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.

Ubud is a world class resort vacation destination. You'll find beautiful luxury resorts with impressive pools and dramatic landscapes.


Is Phuket or Ubud Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Phuket
Ubud

Phuket is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ubud is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Phuket. 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.

Ubud is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Phuket or Ubud Better for Beaches?

Phuket
Ubud

Phuket is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Ubud is not a beach destination.

Phuket offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Ubud is not a beach destination.

Is Phuket or Ubud Better for Hiking?

Phuket
Ubud

Ubud 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 Ubud. There are many stunning walks and hikes just outside of town. There are stunning views from Campuhan Ridge Walk, which is best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset. Jalan Subak Sok Wayah Walk will take you through the rice paddies and Kajeng Rice Field Walk is close to town but tucked away from the crowds. One of the biggest draws of the area is the Tegallalang Rice Terraces Walk.

Phuket is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Ubud?

Phuket
Ubud

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

Ubud is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to the Ubud shopping street for boutiques, markets, and local items. The town has grown into a shopper's paradise with many Balinese handicrafts around.

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 Ubud More Beautiful?

Phuket
Ubud

Phuket and Ubud are somewhat similar when it comes to the good scenery.

Phuket is a beautiful place to visit, too. It is a mix of beautiful beaches and tourist crowds. The island is very developed with a combination of 5 star hotels, souvenir shops, and tour companies. Because of the many excursions leaving from the island, many visitors find it a makes a good base for exploring the area.

Ubud offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's a stunning setting, which makes it appealing to tourists, but to truly enjoy the beauty you'll want to get a bit outside of town.

Is Phuket or Ubud Better for Families?

Phuket
Ubud

Phuket and Ubud are both good destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Phuket. 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.

Ubud offers lots of family activities. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the jungles and rice paddies. There are also many great restaurants that are family-friend. Ubud is a bit cooler than the beach towns of Bali, so kids will enjoy an escape from the hotter temperatures.


Is Phuket or Ubud Better for Couples?

Phuket
Ubud

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

Ubud has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Honeymooners flock to this small town for its stunning scenery and beautiful temples. There are luxury hotels, spas, massages, and poolside escapes that will make for the perfect honeymoon. You'll also find world class restaurants and breathtaking hikes in the area.

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 Ubud Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Phuket
Ubud

Ubud is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ubud is a great town to visit for backpackers. If you need a break from the party scene on Bali, then you'll enjoy the reprieve of this small town. There are still plenty of backpackers and hostels, but the town itself offers a more relaxed setting.

Phuket is a good resort island to visit for backpackers. It has a long history as a party island with expensive prices and hordes of tourists. While it gets its share of backpackers, many visitors complain about the lack of authenticity and prefer to spend their time elsewhere.

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

Phuket
Ubud

Phuket is a good destination for its public transit. However, Ubud is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ubud. Many people hire a vehicle or driver to explore the area. There are also tourist shuttles around with Perama Shuttle being one of the most established.


Is Phuket or Ubud a more walkable city?

Phuket
Ubud

Ubud is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Ubud is a very walkable town. The town is generally walkable and easy to explore on foot, but you'll need other transportation if you want to get outside of town.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ubud or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Ubud?

Both Phuket and Ubud have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Ubud has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Ubud than Phuket. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Phuket, and 4-7 days is enough time in Ubud.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ubud 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 Ubud.


  • How many days in Phuket or Ubud? Ideal Length of Stay
    Phuket 3-7 
    Ubud 4-7

One day in Phuket or Ubud?

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 museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Ubud. 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 Ubud?

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.

Ubud is a great place to explore. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Ubud?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the energetic 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 Ubud. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Ubud?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Ubud. This town 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Indonesia, and The Best Budget Tours to Indonesia.


Which place is cheaper, Ubud or Phuket?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Phuket is $139, while the average daily cost in Ubud is $153. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Phuket and Ubud in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Phuket $64
    Ubud $128
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Phuket $128
    Ubud $256
Compare Hotels in Phuket and Ubud

Looking for a hotel in Phuket or Ubud? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Phuket


Hotels in Ubud


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Phuket Hotel Prices and Ubud Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Phuket $12
    Ubud $1.75
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Phuket

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Phuket:


  • Longtail Taxi (for Two)
    $9.42
  • Taxi from Airport to Phuket Town
    $7.85

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Phuket

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Phuket:

  • Hanuman World Phuket Round Trip Transfer Extra Zone: $95
  • Lion Land Phuket Entry Ticket with Private Hotel Transfer: $69
  • Ziplines 28 platforms with Free Transfer RoundTrips: $80
  • (Privet)Phuket Transfer: $11
  • ATV Bike 1 hr + ziplines 30 platforms with Roundtrip Transfer : $160
  • ATV Bike 1 hr+ Skyline Adventure 28 platforms with free Transfer: $135
  • Andamanda Phuket Water Park Ticket Include Transfers: $84
  • Andamanda Phuket Water Park Tickets with Transfers: $116
  • Andamanda Water Park Phuket Entry Ticket with Hotel Transfers: $75
  • Arrival Phuket Airport Private Transfer : Hotel in Phuket: $43
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Phuket Airport HKT to Phuket City: $131
  • Best ATV Bike and Ziplines Adventure with Transfer : $42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ubud

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ubud:

  • Bali Airport Private Hotel Transfer : $15
  • Eco Friendly Premium Electric Vehicle Airport Transfers : $6.76
  • 240 Minutes Romantic Healing Spa Treatment - Free Transfer: $115
  • A1 Airport Transfer Service - Ubud/Tanah Lot/Uluwatu/Ungasan Area: $24
  • A1 Airport Transfer Service Nusadua/Sanur/Canggu Area: $19
  • ATV Quad Bike Track Tunnel & Waterfall Includes Private Transfer: $79
  • ATV Quad Bike and Rafting with Private Transfer, Lunch: $76
  • Actively enjoy marine sports / Seawalker + Selectable marine sports (parasailing, etc.) / Round trip hotel transfer included: $171
  • Airport Transfer to Nusa Dua: $40
  • Airport Transfer to Seminyak: $40
  • Airport Transfer to Ubud: $25
  • Airport transfer to seminyak/ kuta: $10

Is it cheaper to fly into Phuket or Ubud?

Prices for flights to both Ubud and Phuket change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Phuket $43
    Ubud $20
Typical Food Prices in Phuket

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Phuket:


  • Casual Dinner (for Two)
    $9.08
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $5.34
  • Sit Down Dinner (for Two)
    $13
  • Thai Noodles
    $2.83
  • Bananas
    $0.79
  • Pizza (for Two)
    $9.42

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phuket

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Phuket.

  • Phuket Coral Island and Sunset Dinner by Luxury Catamaran: $43
  • Phuket Express Thai Cooking Course with Authentic Recipes : $44
  • Phuket 10+ Tastings Food Tour & Charming Old Town: $52
  • Express Thai Cooking Class in Phuket: $52
  • Vegetarian Organic Thai Cooking Class and Market Tour in Phuket: $53
  • Organic Thai Cooking Class and Market Tour in Phuket: $57
  • Authentic Thai Cooking Class by Suuko Wellness Spa: $57
  • Phuket Thai Cooking Class with Market Tour and Hotel Pickup: $58
  • Carnival Entertainment and Dinner Experience in Phuket: $59
  • Southern Flavors Phuket Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $59
  • Flavours of the South Food Tour: $59
  • Baba Tastes Phuket Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $59

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ubud

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ubud.

  • Ubud Mystic Dinner at Oracle of Spice Lemuria The Lost City: $17
  • Uluwatu Sunset & Romantic Dinner: $20
  • Cooking Class and Dinner in Traditional House by Food Lover Tour: $25
  • Ubud Cooking Class by Lemon Grass Cooking Class: $26
  • Afternoon Cooking Class & Making Bali Offering with Dinner: $29
  • Uluwatu Sunset Trip with Kecak Dance Show and Jimbaran Dinner: $30
  • Amazing Half-Day Uluwatu Sunset Tour with Jimbaran Seafood Dinner: $30
  • Be a real Balinese with Traditional Balinese Cooking Class: $30
  • Private Traditional Bali Cooking Class in Sidemen: $31
  • Cultural Evening Dinner: $31
  • Uluwatu Sunset Experience: Kecak Dance and Dinner at Jimbaran: $34
  • Ubud Cooking : All Inclusive Cooking Class: $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Phuket $49
    Ubud $9.84
Typical Entertainment Prices in Phuket

Here are a few typical costs in Phuket for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • One Day Boat Tour
    $28
  • Scuba Diving (Two Dives)
    $79
  • Thai Oil Massage
    $20
  • Surfboard Rental
    $9.42

Tours and Activities in Phuket

Here are a few actual costs in Phuket for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Self Guided Scavenger Hunts and Gamified Tours: $4.75
  • Oto Indoor Play Park Entrance Ticket in Phuket: $8.05
  • Phuket Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Aquarium Phuket Admission Ticket: $14
  • Phuket Rock Beach Swing Tickets: $17
  • Aquaria Phuket Tickets and 4D Trickeye Museum Combo Deal: $17
  • Aquaria Phuket and 4D Trickeye Museum Experience Ticket: $17
  • Phuket to Koh Phi Phi by Phi Phi Cruiser: $19
  • Phuket Highlights: Half Day City Tour with Landmark & Viewpoint: $21
  • Phang Nga Bay Skywalk at Samet Nangshe Admission Ticket: $21
  • Half Day Phuket City tour + Hotel Pick Up and Drop Off: $21
  • Patong Beach Parasailing and Jet Skiing Experience Shared: $22

Tours and Activities in Ubud

Here are a few actual costs in Ubud for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Mangrove Tour at Nusa Lembongan : Kayak, Paddle and Boat: $8.00
  • Batur Natural Hot Springs Entrance Ticket - Swim: $8.81
  • One Way Ticket Fast Boat from Sanur Bali and Nusa Penida : $8.92
  • Bali Tour Customized with Private Tour Driver: $9.00
  • ATV Adventure with Private Tracks and Guide in Ubud: $9.18
  • Hike and Heal Mount Batur Sunrise Tour with Hot Springs Add On: $9.18
  • Full-Day Private North Bali Tour with Free WiFi: $9.32
  • Self-Guided Tour in Bali's Pura Ulun Danu Beratan Temple Complex: $9.99
  • Sea to Summit Trekking Adventure on Mount Agung: $10
  • 1 Hour Mangrove Tour From Lembongan with Kayak, Paddle, or Boat: $11
  • Bali Blue Lagoon Snorkeling with optional Tours and Activity: $12
  • Trans Studio Bali Admission Ticket: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Phuket $7.32
    Ubud $6.62
Typical Alcohol Prices in Phuket

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Phuket from other travelers:


  • Cocktails (for Two)
    $6.28
  • Beer
    $2.67

Sample the Local Flavors in Phuket

Also in Phuket, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Chalong Bay Rum Distillery Experience: $41
  • Chalong Bay Rum Distillery Experience and Lunch: $55
  • Phuket Real City Tour with Rum Cocktail Distillery: $89
  • Phuket Sightseeing Tour with Rum Distillery : $113
  • Big Buddha & The Distillery Phuket: $138
  • Phuket Rum Distillery Cocktail Workshop And Wat Chalong Temple : $172


When comparing the travel costs between Phuket and Ubud, we can see that Ubud is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Phuket or Ubud?

Phuket has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Ubud. When comparing the sizes of Phuket and Ubud, 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.