This island paradise has won the heart of many travelers. It attracts tourist from all walk of earth. That has to do with the tropical places that it has to offer and hidden gems on the island.
However, is Bali a budget friendly destination? To answer this question, we need to analyze several factors, such as accommodation, food budget, transportation, and many more aspects.
After all that, we can decide whether Is Bali expensive or cheap? Thanks to our expertise to the island, we can provide you with accurate information.
This way, you can decide whether you want to visit the island or not. Therefore, you can plan your budget and not worry about breaking the bank.
We might also want to check out our other blogs about the island of the gods, which are what is the weather like in Bali? What Ocean Surround Bali? And What is the best time to visit Bali?
Is Bali Expensive? Or Is Bali Cheap? Budget Travel Guide To Bali:
The most common questions that come to mind when planning a vocation in Bali, is Bali expensive or is Bali cheap?
Deciding whether Bali is expensive or cheap, depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and the season you visit. In this compressive guide, we will break down the costs of staying on the island.
We will walk you through the cost associated with accommodations, food, transportation, activities and much more. Therefore, you can plan your one to two weeks itinerary in Bali.
You might need to know the currency of Bali, and how to convert it into your country currency. We have a blog about that, so check it out.
When considering value for money, Bali often ranks highly due to its mix of affordability, natural beauty, and rich cultural experiences. Without further ado, lets began our guide.
1. Price Of Accommodation In Bali:
Bali has a huge range of accommodation that suit every traveler’s budget, from cheap hotels to luxurious villa. It is all depends on you and how much you want to spend.
You can find a budget friendly hostel, a guesthouse, or a budget hotel, which can cost you between $10 to $30 per night.
However, there are cheaper hotels that cost you $7 to $15. On the downside, you would give up the modern comfort and privacy. You might share room with other travelers.
There is also a mid-range option, such as renting a villa with a pool or a boutique hotel. The average cost between $50 to $150 per night.
This option is suitable for family and couples that want to find affordable accommodation without breaking the bank. If you divide the cost on two or more, than you can have a cheap option.
You can also live in luxury and find a high-end resort or private villa that might cost you around $200 or more per night. It is suitable for couple who are in their babymoon or honeymoon in Bali.
We already have a blog post about where to stay in Bali, so you can find out more about the best hotels on the island and choose your suitable accommodation.
2. Price Of Food In Bali:
Local meals at warungs (local eateries) can be very cheap, often around $1 to $4 for dishes like nasi goreng or mie goreng.
However, eating at a western restaurant has a higher price range between $5 to $15 for a meal, such as fries or battered chicken, but I would recommend eating street food to try authentic Balinese food.
There is also the option to eat at high-end restaurants that might cost around $30+ for gourmet dining experiences.e If you want to treat your loved one to the best restaurants in Bali, then this is your go-to option.
We already have a blog about what to eat in Bali that offers some authentic Balinese food and where you can eat them. Some restaurants are better than others, making a specific dish, so I would highly recommend reading this blog.
3. Cost Of Drinks In Bali:
The cost of drinks in Bali varies depending on the type of drink and where you buy it. In this section, we will offer a general idea about buying drinks in Bali:
Alcoholic Drinks
Local beer (e.g., Bintang):
- In a convenience store: Around $1 to $2 USD per bottle (330ml).
- In bars or restaurants: $2 to $5 USD.
Cocktails:
- In beach bars or mid-range restaurants: Around $5 to $10 USD.
- In high-end or luxury venues: $10 to $15+ USD.
Wine:
- Imported wine can be expensive due to taxes, costing $25 to $50+ USD per bottle in stores.
- By the glass at restaurants or bars: $7 to $12 USD.
Local spirits or cocktails (like Arak):
- Often cheaper, around $3 to $6 USD for a drink.
Non-Alcoholic Drinks
- Bottled water (600ml):
- In convenience stores: $0.30 to $1 USD.
- Fresh juice or smoothies:
- Local cafes or street vendors: $1.50 to $3 USD.
- At beach clubs or upscale cafes: $4 to $6 USD.
- Soft drinks (Coke, Sprite, etc.):
- Around $0.50 to $1.50 USD in stores.
- $1 to $3 USD in restaurants or bars.
Coffee:
- Local coffee (Bali coffee):
- At small cafes or warungs: $1 to $2 USD.
- Espresso-based drinks (cappuccino, latte, etc.):
- At coffee shops or cafes: $2 to $4 USD, depending on the location.
Prices can fluctuate depending on whether you’re at a local spot or a more tourist-centric area like Seminyak or Ubud.
High-end establishments, especially in tourist-heavy regions, charge more than local spots or convenience stores.
4. Cost Of Transportation In Bali:
It is easy to navigate through Bali because there are so many transportations options on the island. You should check on the price with the taxi driver before checking in, as some drivers might take advantage of tourists. You should use Rome2Rio.
Transportation in Bali is varied, with options ranging from budget-friendly to more convenient and private choices. Here’s a breakdown of the main transportation options and their approximate costs:
1. Scooter/Motorbike Rental
- Cost: $5 to $10 USD per day, or around $50 to $80 USD per month for longer-term rentals.
- Pros: Cheap, easy to get around Bali’s narrow roads, and gives you flexibility.
- Cons: Bali’s traffic can be challenging, and it’s important to have experience driving a scooter. Always wear a helmet and ensure you have a valid international driver’s license.
2. Taxis
- Metered taxis (Bluebird is the most reliable):
- Cost: Starting fare is around $0.60 USD (IDR 10,000), and the cost per kilometer is about $0.30 USD (IDR 5,000).
- A typical short ride may cost $2 to $5 USD, while longer rides (like airport to Seminyak) could be around $10 to $15 USD.
- Tips: Always insist on using the meter, as some drivers might try to negotiate a higher fixed price.
3. Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab, Gojek)
- Cost: Similar to taxis but usually cheaper, with fares starting around $1 to $3 USD for short rides and longer rides costing around $7 to $15 USD.
- Availability: Easy to use in many areas, but in some tourist spots (like Ubud or Canggu), local taxi unions may restrict their operation.
- Types of rides: You can book motorbikes (cheaper) or cars.
4. Private Driver/Car Rental with Driver
- Cost: Around $40 to $60 USD per day (8–10 hours), depending on the season, distance, and negotiation.
- Pros: Ideal for day trips or if you want to explore different parts of Bali comfortably. Prices often include fuel.
- Cons: More expensive, but offers comfort and convenience.
5. Car Rental (Self-Drive)
- Cost: $15 to $35 USD per day, depending on the type of car and duration of rental.
- Pros: Good if you’re traveling with a group and comfortable with driving.
- Cons: Bali’s roads and traffic can be chaotic, parking can be difficult, and you need an international driver’s license.
6. Bemo (Local Minibuses)
- Cost: Usually very cheap, around $0.30 to $1 USD per ride, depending on the distance.
- Pros: Authentic local experience, cheap.
- Cons: Routes can be confusing, slow, and uncomfortable. These are more commonly used by locals and may not be very tourist-friendly.
7. Tourist Shuttle Buses
- Cost: Shuttle services like Perama offer rides between popular tourist areas. Prices range from $5 to $10 USD depending on the route (e.g., Ubud to Kuta or Seminyak).
- Pros: Convenient for inter-city travel.
- Cons: Fixed schedules and routes; you have less flexibility.
8. Bicycles
- Cost: Around $2 to $5 USD per day to rent.
- Pros: Great for short distances in areas like Ubud or Sanur.
- Cons: Not ideal for long distances or busy areas due to traffic.
9. Ojek (Motorbike Taxi)
- Cost: For short distances, you may pay as little as $0.50 to $2 USD.
- Pros: Fast and efficient for short trips, especially in crowded areas.
- Cons: Not ideal for long trips, and safety can be a concern on busy roads.
10. Airport Transfers
- Cost: Around $10 to $15 USD for a one-way private transfer from Ngurah Rai International Airport to areas like Kuta, Seminyak, or Ubud. Prices may vary depending on the distance and service provider.
Summary:
- Cheapest options: Scooter rentals, ride-hailing apps (Gojek/Grab), and bemos.
- Convenient options: Private drivers, taxis, and ride-hailing cars.
- Adventurous options: Scooters and bicycles for short distances or less crowded areas.
If you’re comfortable with local traffic and have experience with scooters, they are the most affordable and flexible way to get around. Otherwise, ride-hailing apps or private drivers offer more comfort and ease.
5. Price of Activities in Bali:
There are endless of opportunities in Bali when it comes to activities. Thus, there is a taste for everyone on the island. Whether you are visiting with your family, loved one, or solo, there is something to do for you.
However, some of the best places to visit in Bali are actually for free, such as hiking to waterfalls in Bali, visiting local markets, attending religious and cultural shows, and visiting the best beaches in Bali, and enjoying some surfing activities in Bali or snorkeling in Bali.
If you want to enjoy the beach from a different perspective, you can try horseback riding on the beach. It is a relaxing way to explore the island. Landscape and wildlife photography are another enjoyable ways to do at the island of Bali.
The average estimation of budget for activities in Bali range between $10 to $50 per experience. Most of the activities would be in the lower end of the scale, but it is better to get some extra money, just in case, if you need them.
For instance, the entrance fee of Uluwatu Temple would cost approximately 30,000 IDR, which equals to $2. I would recommend getting a tour guide that costs $16.93. The tour is totally worth it.
Not to forget the Sacred Monkey forest, (UNESCO World Heritage Site), which costs only $3 for parking. With a tour guide, it would cost approximately $18. I would recommend it if you want to learn more about this beautiful sanctuary.
6. Cost Of Flight To Bali:
Final Thoughts:
There you have it, a complete guide to is Bali cheap? Or is Bali expensive? It covers everything you need from accommodation, food expenses, activities, transportations, and much more.
Therefore, you can plan a budget friendly visit to Bali without worrying about breaking the bank. Overall, Bali is considered relatively cheap compared to European countries and many western destinations.
However, it is all depends on your travel style, spending habits, activities and preferences. Most of the best things to do in Bali are either cheap or for free, making it worth visiting Bali.
There are plenty of things to know about the island, such as what is the capital of Bali?, Is Bali Safe?, How big Is Bali? And where is Bali Located?
We also have a guide about what language do they speak in Bali that also give you some common phrases to use during your visit to the island.
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