A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bali vs. Geneva for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Bali or Geneva?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Bali and Geneva can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bali

Bali is a spiritual, cultural, and stunning island. The famous beauty of Bali is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Bali travel costs.

Geneva

Geneva is a diverse, international, and professional city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Geneva is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Geneva travel costs.

Bali and Geneva: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Geneva?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Geneva than Bali. While Bali is larger than Geneva, Geneva has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Geneva is very popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Bali attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bali is more touristy than Geneva and is known for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Geneva is famous for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. It is also well known for The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau).

How is Bali different from Geneva?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Geneva and Bali. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bali or Geneva?

Geneva is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Geneva specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Bali or Geneva? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bali is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Bali, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

Geneva has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

Is Bali or Geneva Better for Nightlife?

Bali is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Bali is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

If you're looking for night time activities Geneva has a few options to choose from. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

Is Bali or Geneva Better for Resorts?

Bali is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Geneva is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Bali for its luxury resorts. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Geneva is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Geneva Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is an unbeatable place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Geneva is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Bali. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Geneva is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Geneva Better for Beaches?

Bali is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Geneva is not a beach destination.

Bali offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

Geneva is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Geneva Better for its Old Town?

Geneva is very good for its old town. However, Bali does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Geneva to see the old town. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.

Bali does not have a historic old town.

Is Bali or Geneva Better for Hiking?

Bali is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Geneva is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Bali. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Geneva is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Geneva?

Geneva is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Geneva make it a world-class shopping destination. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bali. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

Is Bali or Geneva More Beautiful?

Bali is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Bali is one of the main draws. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches and stunning countryside. It's also a very cultural island with a lot of spirituality.

Geneva is a beautiful place to visit, too. Located on the edge of Lake Geneva and surrounded by the Alps, the city is both bustling and beautiful.

Is Bali or Geneva Better for Families?

Bali is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Bali is a very family-friendly place to visit. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

Geneva offers lots of family activities. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

Is Bali or Geneva Better for Couples?

Bali is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Bali is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.

Is Bali or Geneva Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bali is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Bali or Geneva Better for Students?

Geneva is a well-known place for students. However, Bali is not popular with students.

Geneva is very popular with students. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

Bali is not popular with students.

Is Bali or Geneva Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Geneva is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Geneva has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

Bali has some public transit options. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Is Bali or Geneva a more walkable city?

Geneva is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

Geneva is a very walkable city. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

Bali is generally not a very walkable island. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Bali Worth Visiting? and Is Geneva Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Geneva or Bali?

How long in Bali or Geneva?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bali and Geneva. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bali than in Geneva. Usually, 7-14 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 1-3 days is enough time in Geneva.

Families should spend more time in Bali than Geneva. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bali, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Bali than Geneva. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bali that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali than Geneva 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 Bali.

One day in Bali or Geneva?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bali. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Geneva is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Bali or Geneva?

Bali is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Geneva is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the shopping. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bali or Geneva?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bali. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With so much to do, five days is probably not enough time to see everything. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the professional big city of Geneva. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bali or Geneva?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the stunning destination of Bali. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The international city of Geneva offers nightlife and food. 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 Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, and The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bali Expensive? and Is Geneva Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bali or Geneva?

Bali has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Geneva. When comparing the sizes of Bali and Geneva, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Bali or Geneva?

Geneva has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Bali experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Bali or Geneva in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Geneva. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Geneva for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Bali is generally a little warmer than Geneva. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Geneva fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Geneva this time of the year. In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bali usually receives less sunshine than Geneva during summer. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bali usually receives less rain than Geneva. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer. April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Should I visit Bali or Geneva in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bali as well as Geneva. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Geneva because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bali is much warmer than Geneva in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Geneva fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. In the autumn, Bali often gets more sunshine than Geneva. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 127 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets less rain in October than Geneva. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March in Bali is the rainy season.

Should I visit Bali or Geneva in the Winter?

Both Geneva and Bali are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Geneva this time of year.

It's quite cold in Geneva in the winter. In the winter, Bali is much warmer than Geneva. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bali in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Geneva averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Bali usually receives more sunshine than Geneva during winter. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bali usually receives more rain than Geneva. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter. The rainy season in Bali is October to March.

Should I visit Bali or Geneva in the Spring?

Both Geneva and Bali during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Geneva for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Bali is generally much warmer than Geneva. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Geneva fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Bali. In the spring, Bali often gets more sunshine than Geneva. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 174 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Geneva. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year. April to September is the dry season in Bali.

Typical Weather for Geneva and Bali