Bali has long been famous as a tropical paradise that doesn’t break the bank. But if you’ve been scrolling social media lately or hearing stories from recent travelers, you might be wondering: is Bali still affordable, or has it become expensive for tourists now?
The honest answer in 2025 is this: Bali is no longer “cheap” in the old backpacker sense — but it’s still excellent value if you know how to travel smart. Your experience can range from very budget-friendly to surprisingly expensive, depending on your choices.
Bali Isn’t as Cheap as It Used to Be — and That’s True
There’s no denying it: prices in Bali have gone up. Popular areas like Canggu, Seminyak, and parts of Ubud have seen noticeable increases in accommodation, food, and lifestyle experiences. Cafés that cater to digital nomads, beach clubs, and Instagram-famous restaurants often charge prices similar to Europe or Australia.
However, this doesn’t mean Bali has suddenly become unaffordable. What’s really changed is how polarized the costs are. Bali now offers both ultra-luxury experiences and very local, budget-friendly options — sometimes just a few streets apart.
Accommodation Costs: From Budget to Luxury
Where you stay makes the biggest difference to your budget.
If you’re happy with guesthouses, homestays, or hostels, Bali is still very affordable. Budget travelers can find clean, comfortable places without spending much per night.
Mid-range hotels and boutique stays offer excellent value compared to Western countries, especially when you factor in pools, gardens, and service. Luxury villas, on the other hand, can be pricey — especially beachfront or private pool villas in high-demand areas. Bali’s luxury scene has grown massively, and prices reflect that. To get the best deals we recommend Booking.com
Food and Drinks: Still One of Bali’s Best Deals
Food is where Bali continues to shine for affordability — if you eat like a local.
Local warungs serve delicious Indonesian meals for very little, and you can eat extremely well on a small daily food budget. Fresh juices, nasi goreng, mie goreng, and local soups remain some of the best-value meals you’ll find anywhere.
That said, Western cafés, vegan brunch spots, cocktail bars, and beach clubs can add up quickly. A single meal at a trendy café can cost the same as several local meals combined. Bali isn’t expensive to eat — tourist dining is.
Our Restaurant Recommendations
Activities and Sightseeing Costs
One of the best things about Bali is that many experiences remain affordable. Temple entrance fees, waterfalls, rice terraces, and cultural sites usually cost only a small amount.
Day tours, snorkeling trips, and guided experiences are generally reasonable, especially when shared with others. Adventure activities and private tours cost more but are still cheaper than similar experiences in many other countries.
There is also a small tourist levy for international visitors, introduced to help preserve Bali’s culture and environment. While it adds to your overall budget, it’s relatively minor compared to total trip costs.
Transportation: Cheap If You Keep It Simple
Getting around Bali doesn’t have to be expensive. Scooter rentals remain one of the cheapest ways to explore the island, and ride-hailing apps offer affordable transport in many areas.
Bali Private DriverPrivate drivers are popular for day trips and can be good value when split between multiple people. Taxis and airport transfers are more expensive than local transport but still reasonable compared to international standards.
So, How Much Does a Bali Trip Really Cost?
A budget traveler can still enjoy Bali comfortably with careful spending, local food, and simple accommodation. Mid-range travelers often feel Bali offers fantastic value for money, combining comfort with affordability. Luxury travelers will find Bali just as expensive as any high-end global destination — sometimes more, depending on exclusivity.
In short, Bali isn’t cheap by default anymore — it’s flexible.
How to Save Money in Bali in 2025
Traveling Bali on a budget is still very doable if you’re mindful. Eat at local warungs, stay slightly outside tourist hotspots, rent a scooter if you’re confident, and avoid peak travel seasons when prices surge. Planning ahead — especially for flights and accommodation — makes a big difference.
Final Verdict: Is Bali Expensive Now?
Bali in 2025 is more expensive than it used to be, but it’s far from overpriced. Compared to most Western destinations, it still offers incredible value — especially for food, culture, and experiences.
Whether Bali feels cheap or expensive ultimately depends on how you choose to experience it. Travel simply, and Bali can still feel like a bargain. Travel luxuriously, and prices will match the lifestyle.
