A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ubud vs. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) for Food, Resorts, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Ubud or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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 is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Ubud travel costs.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a breathtaking, other-worldly, and spiritual national park. The famous beauty of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food. See Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) travel costs.

Ubud and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock): Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ubud or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ubud. Although Ubud and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) are both popular with visitors, Ubud has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ubud is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, shopping, and small town charm, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Ubud is more touristy than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and is popular for its cultural and religious sites, dramatic rice paddies, and local handicrafts. It is also home to Tegallalang rice terrace. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is popular for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture.

How is Ubud different from Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Ubud is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Ubud specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). The Cultural Center offers information on the local Anangu culture. Also make sure you visit Field of Light, which is an art installation that is impressive. Wintjiri Arts and Museum is another local spot that is worth visiting.

Is the Food Better in Ubud or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ubud is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Ubud has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an experience not to be missed. Many of the dining options are connected with the resorts in the area. A bucket list experience is to enjoy outdoor dining with a 4 or 5 course menu under the desert moon. Many visitors also enjoy the unique experience of an outdoor barbecue, complete with local foods and a stunning sunset view. There are several fine dining options in the area, and a handful of budget-friendly places to eat as well.

Is Ubud or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Nightlife?

Ubud is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Ubud. 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Dining under the stars is the best way to experience a night at Uluru.

Is Ubud or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Resorts?

Ubud is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Ubud is a perfect choice. You'll find beautiful luxury resorts with impressive pools and dramatic landscapes.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. While there is nowhere to stay inside the park, just outside there are many resorts and hotels. Many of the options in the area are run by one or two companies. There are also campgrounds nearby.

Is Ubud or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Hiking?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are countless walks in the area that pass by stunning viewpoints and surreal rock formations. You can feel the natural beauty and the spirituality of the park as you soak up the other-worldly landscape. Out of respect for the people and nature, always stay on marked trails.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Ubud is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Ubud is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) to go shopping. You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.

Is Ubud or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) More Beautiful?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is one of the main draws. It's dramatic beauty and spiritual setting make this an iconic destination. It's particularly striking at sunrise and sunset.

Ubud is a gorgeous place to visit. 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 Ubud or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Families?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids and adults alike will benefit from learning about the local Anangu culture. You can visit the Cultural Center or take an informative guided tour of the area. A visit to the Field of Lights is sure to impress as well. Other family-friendly activities include camel rides, beautiful hikes, helicopter rides and reptile shows.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Couples?

Ubud and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) both first-rate destinations for a couple.

Ubud is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The natural and spiritual beauty of this sight make it a truly romantic destination. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular. There are also romantic resorts, adventure-filled activities, and unique dining opportunities that will make this an amazing honeymoon or anniversary trip.

Is Ubud or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ubud and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) are high quality places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ubud is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Many backpackers choose to stay at a hostel or campground near the sight. There are also some cheaper tour options that cater to the backpacker crowd.

Is Ubud or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ubud is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). There's no public transit or taxis in the area, but there is a hop-on hop-off bus as well as private bus tours and rental cars that you can arrange.

Is Ubud or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) a more walkable city?

Ubud is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a somewhat walkable town. There are many walks in the area, and seeing Uluru on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to explore.

For even more information, also check out Is Ubud Worth Visiting? and Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Ubud?

How long in Ubud or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

It's fun to spend time in either Ubud or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Generally, people tend to spend more time in Ubud due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Ubud, and 3-4 days is enough time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock).

Couples should spend more time in Ubud than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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 Ubud than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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.

One day in Ubud or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Ubud. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the popular destination of Ubud. It offers something for everyone. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Ubud. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days here is typical. Your budget might influence how long you stay. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town.

You'll find shopping and museums around the breathtaking destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). This national park offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Ubud or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Ubud is a great place to explore. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people visit for the food. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It is common to spend one week here. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

The other-worldly national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) offers museums 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 Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ubud Expensive? and Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Expensive?.