A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lombok vs. Madrid for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Lombok or Madrid?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lombok and Madrid. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lombok

Lombok is a cultural, stunning, and peaceful island. Many visitors also come to Lombok because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Lombok travel costs.

Madrid

Madrid is a diverse, compact, and friendly city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See Madrid travel costs.

Lombok and Madrid: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Madrid?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Madrid. Although Lombok and Madrid are popular destinations, Madrid has more sights and attractions for tourists. Madrid is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Lombok attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lombok is famous for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. Madrid is famous for its art and architecture, its tapas and culinary scene, and its lively flamenco dancing. It is also well known for The Prado Museum.

How is Lombok different from Madrid?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lombok or Madrid?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Lombok and Madrid.

Lombok offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The island has many traditional villages that let you glimpse the fascinating Sasak Tribe's culture. This is the largest tribe on the island and it makes up about 85% of the island's population. Sasak Sade Village is large and popular to visit. A visit offers a unique experience and helps you understand more about the island's culture.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Madrid. There are a number of cultural sights in the city including Museo Nacional del Prado, the Royal Palace and Gardens, and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.

Is the Food Better in Lombok or Madrid? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Madrid is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Madrid, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a mix of flavors that come from all of Spain. There are amazing markets where you can grab a meal or snack. There are also many high quality restaurants around town where you're guaranteed a good meal. Local favorites include roast suckling pig, Spanish omelette, and meat and chickpea stew.

Dining out in Lombok is an experience not to be missed. The island is considered world renowned for its Halal cuisine, and there are many popular local dishes that you should try. Ayam Taliwang is a grilled chicken dish, Satay Rembiga is grilled meat served over rice, and Bebalung is a soup that's made with goat or cow ribs.

Is Lombok or Madrid Better for Nightlife?

Madrid is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Madrid for the nightlife scene. Many tourists and international students hang out in the Huertas area, while Malasaña has a bohemian, hipster vibe with small clubs that play indie music. Chueca is a fun area that's known for being gay-friendly with many good bars. Finally, you'll find that the area around Avenida de Brasil is where famous DJs often perform.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Lombok. While the island is quieter than nearby Bali, it does still have an active nightlife scene. In particular, head to the areas around Senggigi Beach and Kuta Lombok for the most active bars and live music. With the more populated tourist areas and hotels come the more active clubs, bars, and evening entertainment.

Is Lombok or Madrid Better for Music?

Madrid is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Lombok is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Madrid. Rock, jazz, and flamenco are all popular in the city. Some of the most well known music venues include Sala Caracol, Sala Clamores, and Costello Club.

Lombok is not a live music destination.

Is Lombok or Madrid Better for Resorts?

Lombok is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Madrid is not a resort destination.

In Lombok, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The island is filled with luxury resorts, villas, and hotels. You'll want to think about your priorities before booking your hotel. There areas that are better for beaches, hiking, culture or sightseeing, and each has its own personality and style.

Madrid is not a resort destination.

Is Lombok or Madrid Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Madrid is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Lombok is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is surrounded by clear waters and colorful coral, making it a superb snorkeling and diving destination. For some of the best dive spots head to the Gili Islands. Around the island you'll find places where you can see turtles, colorful fish, and possibly even Hammerhead Sharks.

Madrid is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lombok or Madrid Better for Beaches?

Lombok is renowned for its beaches. However, Madrid is not a beach destination.

Lombok is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Kuta, Senggigi, and the Gili Islands offer some of the area's best beaches. Many beaches have white sand, clear water, beautiful snorkeling, or fun surfing. Mawun Beach and Pandanan Beach are among the most beautiful beaches, while Selong Belanak Beach is very photogenic with its water buffalo. Tanjung Aan Beach has surfing and Kuta Beach Lombok is the most popular beach, but not among the best.

Madrid is not a beach destination.

Is Lombok or Madrid Better for Hiking?

Lombok is a great island for hiking. However, Madrid is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Lombok for the hiking trails. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but the most well known is the three day hike to the peak of Mount Rinjani. This is the large and active volcano on the island. The hike is truly beautiful and spectacular, but it's also a challenging climb and the difficulty level should not be underestimated.

Madrid is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lombok or Madrid?

Madrid is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Madrid draws large crowds to its stores. Gran Vía is a main thoroughfare in Madrid that is also popular for shopping. Calle Fuencarral is where you'll find the fashion shops and Calle Preciados is a fun pedestrian area to explore.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Lombok. There are many traditional markets and villages around the island where you can buy Sasak crafts. These items are characterized by bright colors and elaborate patterns. You'll find pottery, fabrics, clothing, and hand-woven baskets.

Is Lombok or Madrid More Beautiful?

Lombok is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Madrid is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Lombok because of it's amazing beauty. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

Madrid is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lombok or Madrid Better for Families?

Both Lombok and Madrid are very good family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lombok is very family-friendly. The island is filled with natural beauty, waterfalls, beaches, swimming spots, traditional villages and wildlife. This makes it an idyllic destination for families, whether you're traveling with toddlers or older kids.

Madrid is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids love splashing around at Madrid Río, taking a ride on the cable car (Teleférico), and exploring the city's many parks and playgrounds. There's even a maze at Sabatini Gardens. Restaurants around the city are also very kid-friendly.

Is Lombok or Madrid Better for Couples?

Lombok is renowned for romance. Also, Madrid is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Lombok is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The island has grown into a world renowned honeymoon destination. It has a more laid back vibe than nearby Bali, and you'll find pristine beaches and a tropical paradise. There are luxury hotels, stunning natural settings, and plenty of romantic or adventurous activities.

Madrid is a very popular place to visit for couples. Fun and romantic activities around town include taking a boat ride at Casa de Campo, riding a bike in one of the many parks, and enjoy dinner and show in the evening.

Is Lombok or Madrid Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Madrid is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Lombok. This island is often compared to Bali 30 years ago. It's a much quieter island, but there are still bars and towns that attract a crowd. If you're looking for a party, then you'll likely still be able to find one, but if you want a laid back retreat, that's available as well.

Madrid is a great island to visit for backpackers. The many hostels around town make it easy for backpackers to find affordable accommodation while also meeting other travelers.

Is Lombok or Madrid Better for Students?

Madrid is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lombok is not popular with students.

Madrid is a very popular place to visit for students. With several great universities, this city is popular with international and study abroad students. The city also has a diverse population and an active nightlife that appeals to students.

Lombok is not popular with students.

Is Lombok or Madrid Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Madrid is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Madrid can get you around easily. The system includes the Madrid Metro, buses, and a light rail system.

Public transit is generally limited in Lombok. The island is spread out, so many visitors prefer to hire a car of motorbike. There are also public buses, minibuses, and taxis available.

Is Lombok or Madrid a more walkable city?

Madrid is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Madrid is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most tourists stay in the central part of Madrid where it's compact and relatively easy to walk to most tourist sights.

Lombok is generally not very walkable. There are towns on the island that are relatively walkable and there are hiking and walking paths in different places.

For even more information, also check out Is Lombok Worth Visiting? and Is Madrid Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Madrid or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Madrid?

In either Lombok or Madrid, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lombok than Madrid because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 2-5 days is enough time in Madrid.

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

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

One day in Lombok or Madrid?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Lombok. 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.

Madrid is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lombok or Madrid?

Lombok 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.

Madrid is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lombok or Madrid?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lombok. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Madrid. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lombok or Madrid?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the stunning destination of Lombok. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One week is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the authentic big city of Madrid. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Indonesia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid.

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

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