Bali Trip Cost: 7 Days of Paradise Under $1000
Planning a trip to Bali? You’re in for a treat, but you might be wondering about the cost. Bali can fit many budgets, from backpackers to luxury seekers. Depending on your travel style, a typical Bali trip costs between $50 to $200 per day. This beautiful Indonesian island offers stunning beaches, lush jungles, and rich culture.
Your Bali adventure can be as cheap or pricey as you want. Staying in hostels and eating local food keeps costs low. Fancy resorts and fine dining bump up the price. Don’t forget to factor in flights, which vary based on where you’re coming from. Activities like temple visits, surfing lessons, and spa treatments add to the fun but also to your budget.
Ready to start planning? We’ll break down costs for different budgets. You’ll learn about cheap eats, comfy stays, and must-see spots. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of what your dream Bali trip might cost. Let’s dive in and make your Bali dreams a reality!
Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Planning Your Trip
- Determining Travel Style
- Choosing Your Destinations
- Getting There
- Flights to Bali
- On the Ground Transportation
- Transportation Costs
- Renting Scooters and Bicycles
- Taxi and Car Services
- Accommodation
- Types of Accommodation
- Accommodation Costs
- Eating and Drinking
- Local Dining Options
- Warungs and Street Food
- Food and Drink Costs
- Activities and Attractions
- Cultural Sites
- Outdoor Adventures
- Entrance Fees and Costs
- Understanding Overall Costs
- Estimating Total Trip Expenses
- Managing Your Travel Budget
- More Travel Guides
Key Takeaways
- Bali trip costs range from $50 to $200 per day based on travel style
- Accommodation options span from budget hostels to luxury resorts
- Local food and activities can help keep daily expenses manageable
Planning Your Trip
Getting ready for your Bali adventure takes some thought. You’ll want to figure out your travel style and pick the perfect spots to visit. This helps you make the most of your time and money on the island.
Determining Travel Style
Think about how you like to travel. Are you a budget backpacker or do you prefer luxury resorts? Bali has options for every style. If you’re watching your wallet, consider staying in guesthouses or hostels. These can cost as little as $10-20 per night. For a mid-range trip, look at hotels or Airbnbs. These usually run $30-100 nightly.
Luxury travelers can splurge on fancy resorts. Places like the Four Seasons in Ubud or Alila Villas in Uluwatu offer top-notch amenities. But they come with a hefty price tag of $500+ per night. Your travel style affects your daily budget for food, activities, and transport too.
Choosing Your Destinations
Bali has so much to see. You can’t do it all in one trip, so pick your must-visit spots. South Bali is great for beaches and nightlife. Ubud in Central Bali is perfect for culture and rice field views. East Bali offers volcanoes and diving.
Think about what you want to do. Beach bums might stick to Seminyak or Canggu. Culture lovers should head to Ubud. Adventure seekers can explore Mount Batur in East Bali. Each area has its own vibe and price range. Touristy spots like Kuta tend to be pricier than quieter areas like Amed.
Don’t try to cram too much in. Bali’s traffic can make getting around slow. Pick 2-3 main areas to focus on. This lets you really soak in each place without spending all your time (and money) on transport.
Getting There
Traveling to Bali can be a big part of your trip cost. Let’s look at the main way most people get to this beautiful Indonesian island.
Flights to Bali
Flying is the most common way to reach Bali. Prices for flights can vary a lot depending on where you’re coming from and when you go. If you’re flexible with dates, you might snag a better deal. Flights from other parts of Southeast Asia are often cheaper than those from farther away.
For the best prices, try booking 2-3 months ahead. Peak season (July-August and December-January) usually means higher fares. Off-season travel can save you money.
KAYAK is a good place to compare flight prices. You might find round-trip tickets from the US for $800-$1500. From Australia, expect to pay $300-$800. European flights can range from $600-$1200.
Budget airlines sometimes offer cheap flights to Bali, but watch out for extra fees. Pack light and bring snacks to avoid these costs.
Remember, getting the cheapest flight isn’t always best. Consider flight times and layovers too. A bit more money might mean a much comfier trip.
On the Ground Transportation
Getting around Bali can be cheap and easy if you know your options. You’ll find plenty of ways to explore the island, from renting your own wheels to hopping in a taxi.
Transportation Costs
Bali’s transport costs are pretty low compared to many other places. A short taxi ride might set you back 50,000-100,000 IDR ($3-6 USD). Longer trips between towns can cost 200,000-400,000 IDR ($13-26 USD).
Many hotels offer free shuttles to nearby areas. This can save you some cash if you’re not going far.
Renting a car for a day starts around 300,000 IDR ($20 USD). It’s a good choice if you want to see a lot in one day.
Renting Scooters and Bicycles
Scooters are super popular in Bali. You can rent one for about 50,000-70,000 IDR ($3-5 USD) per day. Weekly rates are cheaper, around 300,000-400,000 IDR ($20-26 USD).
Be careful though! Bali’s roads can be crazy. Make sure you’re comfy on a scooter before you hit the streets.
Bikes are another fun option. They cost less, usually 30,000-50,000 IDR ($2-3 USD) per day. Great for short trips or exploring small towns.
Remember to always wear a helmet and drive safely!
Taxi and Car Services
Taxis are easy to find in busy areas. Blue Bird Taxis are known to be reliable and use meters. The starting fare is about 7,000 IDR ($0.50 USD), then 4,000 IDR ($0.30 USD) per km.
Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek are popular too. They’re often cheaper than taxis and you know the price before you ride.
For longer trips, you might want to hire a driver for the day. This usually costs 500,000-800,000 IDR ($33-53 USD). It’s pricier but lets you see a lot without the stress of driving yourself.
Accommodation
Bali offers a wide range of places to stay, from budget-friendly guesthouses to ultra-luxurious resorts. Your choice will have a big impact on your trip costs.
Types of Accommodation
You’ll find many options in Bali to fit your budget and style. Luxury villas with private pools are popular for special trips. These often come with staff and amazing views.
For a more affordable stay, try guesthouses or homestays. They give you a taste of local life and often include breakfast.
Beach resorts are great if you want to be close to the sand. Many have spas, restaurants, and activities on-site.
Hostels are perfect for backpackers and solo travelers. They’re cheap and social, with dorms and private rooms.
Accommodation Costs
Prices in Bali can fit any wallet. Budget hotels start around $10-20 per night. Mid-range options usually cost $30-80.
Luxury hotels and villas can range from $100 to over $1000 a night. The sky’s the limit for ultra-luxury resorts.
Booking early can save you money, especially during peak season. Consider staying in less touristy areas for better deals.
Remember, prices often don’t include the local tax and service charge. This can add about 21% to your bill.
Always check what’s included. Some places offer free breakfast or airport transfers, which can save you cash.
Eating and Drinking
Bali offers a wide range of dining options to fit every budget and taste. From cheap street eats to fancy restaurants, you’ll find plenty of delicious food choices during your trip.
Local Dining Options
Bali’s food scene is diverse and exciting. You can try traditional Balinese dishes like babi guling (suckling pig) or bebek betutu (slow-cooked duck). Many restaurants serve Indonesian cuisine from other regions too. For Western food, you’ll find pizza places, burger joints, and cafes in tourist areas.
Seafood is a big deal in Bali. Head to Jimbaran Bay for fresh grilled fish right on the beach. It’s pricey but worth it for the experience. Ubud has lots of healthy, organic restaurants if that’s your thing. You can even take a cooking class to learn how to make some local dishes yourself.
Warungs and Street Food
Warungs are small family-run eateries that serve cheap, tasty local food. They’re great for trying authentic dishes without breaking the bank. Look for busy warungs with lots of locals – that’s usually a good sign.
Street food in Bali is yummy and cheap. You’ll see food carts and stalls selling things like:
- Satay (grilled meat skewers)
- Nasi goreng (fried rice)
- Mie goreng (fried noodles)
- Bakso (meatball soup)
Be careful with street food if you have a sensitive stomach. Stick to stalls that look clean and busy.
Food and Drink Costs
Eating out in Bali can be super cheap or pretty expensive, depending on where you go. Here’s a rough guide to food costs:
- Meal at a local warung: $2-$3
- Street food snack: $1-$2
- Mid-range restaurant meal: $5-$10
- Fancy restaurant dinner: $20+
- Large Bintang beer: $2-$3 in shops, $3-$5 in bars
- Fresh coconut: $1-$2
- Coffee in a cafe: $2-$4
Tipping isn’t expected, but rounding up the bill is appreciated. Stick to warungs and street food to keep costs low. Splurge on a nice meal or two to treat yourself. And don’t forget to try some local fruits – they’re cheap and delicious!
Activities and Attractions
Bali offers a diverse range of activities and attractions to suit every traveler’s interests. From ancient temples to stunning natural wonders, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy during your stay.
Cultural Sites
Bali’s rich cultural heritage is on full display at its many temples and historic sites. The iconic Tanah Lot Temple perched on a rocky outcrop is a must-visit, especially at sunset. Entrance fees are typically around $5-10 per person. Uluwatu Temple offers breathtaking cliff-top views and traditional Kecak fire dances. Don’t miss Tirta Empul, a sacred water temple where you can take part in purification rituals.
For a glimpse into local life, explore the charming villages and lush rice terraces of Ubud. The famous Tegalalang Rice Terrace offers stunning photo ops.
Outdoor Adventures
Bali’s natural beauty provides endless opportunities for outdoor fun. Hit the beautiful beaches for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Kuta and Seminyak are popular spots for beginners, while Uluwatu offers more challenging waves.
Book Things To Do, Attractions, and Tours like snorkeling or scuba diving trips to explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. The nearby island of Nusa Lembongan is great for diving and snorkeling excursions.
Hiking enthusiasts can trek up Mount Batur for sunrise views or explore the lush jungles around Ubud. Many yoga retreats offer classes with stunning rice paddy backdrops.
Entrance Fees and Costs
Most attractions in Bali are budget-friendly, with entrance fees ranging from $1-10 per person. Temples typically charge $2-5 for entry. Some popular sites like Tanah Lot may cost up to $10.
Travel Tours, Activities, and Things to Do vary in price. Guided hikes run $30-50, while full-day tours with multiple stops cost $50-100 per person. Water sports like surfing lessons or diving trips range from $40-100 depending on duration and location.
Many beautiful beaches are free to enjoy. You can easily spend a day soaking up the sun and scenery without spending a dime on activities.
Understanding Overall Costs
Planning a Bali trip means juggling different expenses. Knowing what to expect can help you budget wisely and avoid surprises. Let’s break down the costs and look at ways to manage your money in paradise.
Estimating Total Trip Expenses
Where you stay makes a big difference. A fancy hotel could cost $300 a night, while a simple guesthouse might be just $30. Food can be cheap if you eat local – think $5 for a tasty meal. But fancy restaurants will set you back more.
Getting around adds up too. Renting a scooter is cheap, about $5 a day. Hiring a driver costs more, around $50 daily. Don’t forget entrance fees for temples and attractions – usually $5 to $15 each.
A Bali vacation can fit many budgets. For a two-week stay, you might spend $1,500 to $2,000 per person, not counting flights. This covers places to sleep, food, getting around, and fun stuff to do.
Managing Your Travel Budget
You can make your money go far in Bali if you’re smart. Start by picking the right time to visit. Prices jump during peak season, which is in July-August and December-January. Go in the shoulder season for better deals.
To save cash, eat like a local. Street food and warungs (small family-owned restaurants) offer yummy meals for less. Mix it up with a few splurge dinners at fancier spots.
Look for free activities. Many beaches don’t charge entry fees. Some temples let you in for a small donation. Hiking and exploring villages can be cheap or free.
Try haggling at markets – it’s expected! But be respectful and know when to walk away. For tours, book directly with local operators to avoid markups. And don’t forget travel insurance – it can save you from big unexpected costs.