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

Should you visit Ubud or Cairns?

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 Ubud and Cairns. 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.

Ubud

Ubud is a breathtaking, popular, and famous town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Ubud offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Ubud travel costs.

Cairns

Cairns is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and tropical city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Cairns travel costs.

Ubud and Cairns: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ubud or Cairns?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cairns. Although Ubud and Cairns are popular destinations, Cairns has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cairns is very popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Ubud attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Ubud is famous for its cultural and religious sites, dramatic rice paddies, and local handicrafts. Cairns is famous for its stunning beaches, nearby rainforests, and easy access to the world's largest reef system. It is also well known for the Great Barrier Reef.

How is Ubud different from Cairns?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ubud is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Cairns is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Ubud offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Cairns offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time exploring nature and the outdoors, but there are some interesting cultural sights around town as well. Make sure you check out the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park as well as the Cairns Aquarium.

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

Ubud is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Cairns is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Ubud is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cairns makes for a great culinary experience. Waterfront dining with a view is what makes the restaurant scene special. Seafood is everywhere and you can enjoy the catch of the day while you relax on a beachfront terrace. There are also international restaurants that have everything from Spanish tapas to Japanese noodle bowls.

Is Ubud or Cairns Better for Nightlife?

Cairns 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 Cairns just to party. For such as small city, the nightlife scene is incredibly vibrant, particularly during the peak tourist months. Backpackers are at the heart of the action, with many bars and clubs filling up each night with a young crowd. There are dance clubs, all night parties, cocktail bars, and beach side venues that are sure to offer a good time.

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 Ubud or Cairns Better for Resorts?

Ubud is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Cairns is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Ubud is a great choice. You'll find beautiful luxury resorts with impressive pools and dramatic landscapes.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Cairns. There are many beautiful resorts that offer access to the beach and have impressive pools. There are family-friendly resorts, romantic resorts, and even some budget-friendly options.

Is Ubud or Cairns Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cairns is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ubud is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Cairns. It's access to the Great Barrier Reef make this one of the world's top scuba diving and snorkeling destinations. The undersea world is filled with colorful coral, diverse tropical fish, graceful sea turtles, and a truly magical setting.

Ubud is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ubud or Cairns Better for Beaches?

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

Cairns offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Near town you'll find stunningly beautiful beaches that range from hubs of activity to quiet coves. Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is the closest beach to the city center and it has a sandy beach and plenty of amenities. For a quieter setting, head north to Holloways Beach or to the family-friendly Yorkeys Knob Beach. Do take note that if the beach doesn't have a stinger net, then it's recommended you wear a stinger suit (to avoid jellyfish stings).

Ubud is not a beach destination.

Is Ubud or Cairns Better for Hiking?

Cairns is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Cairns is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Near town you'll find wonderful national parks, lush rainforest, and beautiful mountain ranges. There are countless bush walks and hiking trails in the area. Head into the countryside and you'll get lost in nature and breathtaking views.

Many visitors go to Ubud for the hiking trails. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Ubud or Cairns?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Cairns and Ubud.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Ubud. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cairns. There's plenty of shopping around town in the form of shopping centers, markets, and boutique shops. Whether you're looking for trendy fashion or a fun souvenir, there are many places to explore.

Is Ubud or Cairns More Beautiful?

Ubud is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Cairns is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Cairns is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ubud or Cairns Better for Families?

Cairns is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Cairns is very family-friendly. With the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest nearby, this is a playground for kids and adults alike. There are sandy beaches, rainforest walks, turtle rehabilitation centers, scenic railways, adventure sports, and so much more.

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 Ubud or Cairns Better for Couples?

Ubud is terrific for couples. Also, Cairns is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Ubud makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Couples visit Cairns frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a beautiful tropical setting with world class beaches and diverse marine life. Couples who enjoy the outdoors and adventure will love this amazing destination. You can experience the area's wildlife, relax on sandy beaches, or pamper yourself with a spa treatment. There is plenty of luxury, but also adventure-filled activities to choose from.

Is Ubud or Cairns Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cairns is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cairns is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers flock to this coastal town for its easy access to the Great Barrier Reef and its many activities and vibrant energy. There are adventure sports, wild nightclubs, and no shortage of places to hang out with other backpackers.

Ubud is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

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

Cairns 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 Cairns, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Sunbus operates a public bus service that travels through the city center and to many beaches. Most routes start at Cairns City Mall.

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 Ubud or Cairns a more walkable city?

Ubud is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Cairns is lacking in options for its walkability.

Ubud is a very walkable destination. 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.

Cairns is generally not very walkable. While you can walk around many parts of the city center, most visitors want to head into the rainforest or experience the nearby day trips, which require a vehicle.

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

Should I spend more time in Cairns or Ubud?

How long in Ubud or Cairns?

In either Ubud or Cairns, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Ubud than Cairns because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Ubud, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairns.

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

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

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

One day in Ubud or Cairns?

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.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Cairns. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Ubud or Cairns?

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.

Cairns 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.

Five days in Ubud or Cairns?

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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Cairns. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Ubud or Cairns?

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.

The outdoorsy city of Cairns offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Indonesia, The Best Budget Tours to Indonesia, The Best 4-Week (1-Month) Tours in Australia, and The Best Budget Tours to Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ubud and Cairns, we can see that Ubud is more expensive. And not only is Cairns much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Ubud is in Asia and Cairns is in Pacific, 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 Cairns would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cairns 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 Ubud would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Ubud than you might in Cairns.

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

Which is Bigger, Ubud or Cairns?

Cairns has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Ubud. When comparing the sizes of Ubud and Cairns, 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.