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

Should you visit Saaremaa or Lombok?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa or Lombok, 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.

Saaremaa

Saaremaa is a relaxed, traditional, and quiet island. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. The beauty of Saaremaa is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food and beaches. See Saaremaa travel costs.

Lombok

Lombok is a cultural, stunning, and peaceful island. Many visitors also come to Lombok because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Lombok travel costs.

Saaremaa and Lombok: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Lombok?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lombok. Although Saaremaa and Lombok are both popular with visitors, Lombok has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lombok is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Saaremaa is known for its small town charm. Lombok is more touristy than Saaremaa and is known for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. It is also home to Mount Rinjani. Saaremaa is popular for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

How is Saaremaa different from Lombok?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saaremaa or Lombok?

Lombok is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lombok. 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.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Saaremaa and Lombok can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

Saaremaa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Like most things on the island, traditional local food is still the norm here. The island is known for its smoked fish, homemade bread, and locally brewed beers. Popular fishes include garfish, herring, and flatfish, which you can enjoy at a local restaurant or one of the pop-up cafes that are popular during the summer months. You'll find the highest concentration of restaurants in Kuressaare, but there are still many options further out. It's also fun to visit during September during the Saaremaa Food Festival.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Lombok makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Saaremaa or Lombok Better for Nightlife?

Lombok is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

People don't go to Saaremaa for the nightlife. The island is known for it's quiet, laid-back atmosphere, so you'll be hard pressed to find a party or active club, even during the more popular summer months.

Is Saaremaa or Lombok Better for Resorts?

Lombok is great for its luxury resorts. However, Saaremaa 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.

Saaremaa is not a resort destination.

Is Saaremaa or Lombok Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Saaremaa 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.

Saaremaa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saaremaa or Lombok Better for Beaches?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its beaches.

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 Saaremaa. The beaches are quiet and relaxed, even during the summer months. In town, the best beach is Kuressaare Beach. Outside of town you'll find other nice beaches such as the sandy beaches between Mändjala and Järve. The beaches in Tuhkana and Jõiste villages are also well known. For swimming, most people prefer to visit Lake Karujärv.

Is Saaremaa or Lombok Better for Hiking?

Lombok is great for hiking. However, Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.

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.

Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Lombok?

Lombok is great for its shopping areas. However, Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lombok. 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.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saaremaa or Lombok More Beautiful?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Lombok because of it's amazing beauty. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

Saaremaa is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The island has a classic beauty that feels frozen in time.

Is Saaremaa or Lombok Better for Families?

Lombok is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lombok. 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.

Saaremaa is a family-friendly place to visit. While the island is known for its slow pace, there are still a number of fun activities where the kids can run and jump. There are several outdoor adventure parks and playgrounds that are great for young legs. Check out the playgrounds in Kuressaare or head out of town for more outdoor activities. When the weather's nice you can head to Kuressaare Beach or check out the ostrich farm in Muhu.

Is Saaremaa or Lombok Better for Couples?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for romance.

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.

Saaremaa is a very popular place to visit for couples. The peace and quiet of the island make for a relaxing couple's getaway. You can enjoy the outdoors and feel like you've stepped back in time as you explore the laid back island in the Baltics.

Is Saaremaa or Lombok Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lombok, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. 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.

Saaremaa is a good island to visit for backpackers. While prices are cheap, transportation isn't great so you'll likely want to rent a car if you want to really explore the island. There are a number of rooms available for rent at an affordable price, particularly in the shoulder season, but you'll you'll only find a handful of hostels on the island.

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

Lombok is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saaremaa. Most people arrive on the island by ferry. There are buses on the island but they cater mostly to locals. To really explore, you'll want to have access to a car.

Is Saaremaa or Lombok a more walkable city?

Lombok is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its walkability.

Lombok is generally not a very walkable island. There are towns on the island that are relatively walkable and there are hiking and walking paths in different places.

Saaremaa is not a walkable island. While their are some walking trails, you really need a car to explore the island in depth.

For even more information, also check out Is Saaremaa Worth Visiting? and Is Lombok Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lombok or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Lombok?

Saaremaa and Lombok both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lombok than Saaremaa because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saaremaa, and 10-14 days is enough time in Lombok.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lombok than Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa or Lombok?

Saaremaa might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful island of Lombok offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Saaremaa or Lombok?

Saaremaa 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.

Lombok is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Saaremaa or Lombok?

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

Lombok is a popular choice for travelers. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than five days exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Saaremaa or Lombok?

Saaremaa is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Lombok is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one week is probably not enough for all of it. This island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best Wildlife Tours to Indonesia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Saaremaa and Lombok, we can see that Saaremaa is more expensive. And not only is Lombok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Saaremaa is in Europe and Lombok is in Asia, 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 Saaremaa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa Expensive? and Is Lombok Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Saaremaa or Lombok?

Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa or Lombok in the Summer?

Both Lombok and Saaremaa are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saaremaa for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Lombok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In July, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Lombok. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 17°C (62°F), and Lombok fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In July, Saaremaa usually receives more rain than Lombok. Saaremaa gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer. The dry season in Lombok is May to September.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Lombok in the Autumn?

Both Lombok and Saaremaa during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Saaremaa in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Lombok year-round.

Saaremaa is much colder than Lombok in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 8°C (47°F) in October, and Lombok fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Lombok gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Saaremaa usually gets less rain in October than Lombok. Saaremaa gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the rainy season in Lombok.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Lombok in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saaremaa and Lombok. Most visitors come to Saaremaa for the cuisine during these months. Lombok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Saaremaa can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Saaremaa is much colder than Lombok. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saaremaa in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Lombok averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Saaremaa usually receives less sunshine than Lombok during winter. Saaremaa gets 33 hours of sunny skies, while Lombok receives 188 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Lombok. Saaremaa gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Lombok in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saaremaa as well as Lombok. The spring months attract visitors to Saaremaa because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. The warm climate attracts visitors to Lombok throughout the year.

The weather in Saaremaa can be very cold. In April, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Lombok. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 4°C (38°F), and Lombok fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in April than Lombok. Saaremaa gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, May to September in Lombok is the dry season. November to April in Lombok is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Lombok and Saaremaa