Have you ever wondered how much it costs to go to Bali? Indonesia is a dream destination for many travelers, with its beautiful villas, green rice terraces, towering waterfalls, white sand beaches, and epic sunsets. But is Bali expensive to visit? Well, that depends on several factors, including where you want to go in Bali, your travel style, and your plans.
Bali may be a small island, but there is plenty to see and do. With hundreds of temples, stunning natural attractions, and a variety of towns to visit, you won’t ever be bored. In this article, I will suggest a one-week itinerary in Bali, including the costs for return airfare, accommodations, transportation, food, and more. Please note that this guide is based on the costs for a single person. If you are traveling as a couple, make sure to double these costs (except for hotels).
Bali Trip Cost for One Week
Estimated Costs:
- Airfare: $850
- Accommodations: $480 ($100 X 6 nights)
- Transportation and attractions: $120
- Food and drink: $175 ($25 X 6-7 days)
- Random spending: $100
- Total: $1,725 USD
Please use xe.com to find out the average costs in your home currency.
This estimate assumes that you’re using shared taxis or hired drivers to get around and have not rented a motorbike. For motorbike costs and information, see the transportation section. Also, keep in mind that this is just an estimate. Bali can be both budget-friendly and costly, depending on your travel style. Throughout this article, I’ll be sharing tips on how to keep costs low to stay on, or even below, your budget.
Airfare
Airfare to Bali will probably be your biggest cost, especially if you’re coming from North America. To lower these travel costs, avoid traveling during holidays (Christmas and Easter) and the high season in July and August. Budget about $850 for your flight to Bali.
If you’re traveling from Canada or the United States, Bali is quite far. Direct flights to Denpasar do not exist, so play with different itineraries and carriers. For example, it may be more affordable to fly to Bangkok, Singapore, or even Hong Kong, and then find a cheap flight with a budget airline to Bali. Being flexible with your travel plans can potentially save you a couple of hundred dollars and allow you to experience another city.
It’s also worth checking different departure dates and Bali vacation packages to find additional savings.
Accommodations
When it comes to accommodation, Bali has it all. From world-class luxury villas to shared dorm rooms in hostels. For this article, I’ve estimated the average nightly price to be $80 for a 3-star nice hotel in a central location. However, prices can vary depending on your travel style.
Here are a few recommendations:
Hostels
Bali’s hostels are the cheapest choice, with dorm rooms averaging about $8/night and private rooms starting at $20/night. Check out my detailed guide on the best hostels in Bali for recommendations.
Homestays
Balinese homestays offer a bed and breakfast experience on a local family’s property, with an average nightly cost of about $35/night.
Midrange Hotels
Bali has plenty of nice midrange hotels with good amenities and great locations. Prices can range, but it’s easy to find a room for about $100/night.
Luxury Hotels and Villas
If you want to splurge, Bali has elegant villas and resorts that offer a truly luxurious experience. Prices vary, but you can find some reasonable deals.
If you have the right credit card, you can save a fair amount of money on hotels. Consider applying for a credit card with no foreign exchange fees before you depart.
Local Transportation
Local transportation in Bali can be a hassle as public transit is non-existent and transfers can be pricey. The most affordable and easiest way to travel around the island is by motorbike, with rental prices ranging from $20-$30 for the week. However, be cautious as riding a motorbike can be dangerous if you have no experience. You will also need an international driver’s license.
For those who prefer not to rent a motorbike, expect to pay more for local drivers or taxis. Uber is available, but there have been issues between Uber drivers and taxis. Taxis are common in main areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu, but be cautious of drivers overcharging. It’s best to use Blue Bird taxis and ensure they use the meter.
To save money on transportation costs, consider basing yourself in one or two areas and relying on group day trips.
Attractions
Bali is famous for its stunning natural attractions, temples, and beautiful beaches. While many attractions are free, some may require a small entrance fee. For example, the famous Tegalalang Rice Fields near Ubud have an entrance fee of $1.10 USD.
Bali’s temples also come with a small fee, usually just a couple of dollars. Don’t miss Tanah Lot, Uluwatu Temple, Goa Gajah, and Tirta Empul. The cost of attractions comes mainly from transportation. Renting a motorbike allows you to explore attractions easily, while hiring a private driver for a day trip can cost around $50 USD.
To save money on attractions, plan full-day trips to see as much as possible and find other people to go with since the price is for the day, not per person.
Food and Drink
Food and drink prices in Bali can vary depending on your preferences. Opting for local food can cost as little as $2 per meal, while Western-style food is more expensive. Most travelers eat a mix of both, so expect to spend about $25 per day on food and drink, including a drink with each meal.
If you plan on drinking alcohol, factor in additional costs. Beers in Bali are cheaper than wine or cocktails, and look out for two-for-one specials at bars and beach clubs.
Random Spending
Bali offers a few souvenirs and experiences that you may be interested in. Popular souvenirs include batik sarongs, tea, and coffee. Massages are also a must-try in Bali, with basic massages costing about $10 for one hour. Additionally, budget an extra $100 for random spending.
Final Thoughts
To answer the question of how much it costs to go to Bali, I suggest setting aside approximately $1,725 for your trip. This budget includes airfare, accommodations, food, transportation, attractions, and more. Bali is a destination that caters to both budget travelers and those looking for luxury experiences. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can have an enjoyable experience in Bali without breaking the bank.
Is Bali expensive to visit? Overall, no. While prices are increasing with the island’s popularity, Bali is still a relatively affordable destination compared to European destinations. You can make your money go further in Bali. Consider checking out my article on Bali on a budget for more examples. Alternatively, if you’re willing to splurge, Bali offers luxurious villas and hotels at reasonable prices.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Bali and get ready to experience the beauty and adventure that the island has to offer.