A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lombok vs. Nagasaki for Couples, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Lombok or Nagasaki?

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 Nagasaki. 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 peaceful, laid back, and cultural island. Lombok is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Lombok travel costs.

Nagasaki

Nagasaki is a interesting, authentic, and welcoming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Nagasaki travel costs.

Lombok and Nagasaki: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or Nagasaki?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lombok. Although Lombok and Nagasaki are both popular with visitors, Lombok has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lombok is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Nagasaki is known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and big city activities. Lombok is popular for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. It is also home to Mount Rinjani. Nagasaki is popular for its history, hot spring spas, and local cuisine.

How is Lombok different from Nagasaki?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki?

Nagasaki is great for its historical sights. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Nagasaki. Nagasaki Peace Park is a moving tribute to those lost during the atomic bomb attack. Other sights around town include the Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, Kofukuji Temple, and Huis Ten Bosch.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lombok. 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.

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

Foodies will find both Lombok and Nagasaki both to be superb destinations.

Lombok has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Nagasaki is an experience not to be missed. The city has a cosmopolitan cuisine which has been influenced by China and several Western cuisines. Popular local dishes include Chanpon (a noodle dish), Sara Udon (meat, vegetables, and noodles), and Kakuni Manju (pork belly on a dough bun).

Is Lombok or Nagasaki Better for Nightlife?

Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki for the nightlife scene. The best areas for nightlife are the Doza-machi and Shianbashi districts. Shinanbashi is filled with narrow alleys and its easy to get lost.

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 Nagasaki Better for Resorts?

Lombok is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Nagasaki is not a resort destination.

Lombok is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Nagasaki is not a resort destination.

Is Lombok or Nagasaki Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Nagasaki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Lombok a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Nagasaki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lombok or Nagasaki Better for Beaches?

Lombok is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Nagasaki is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Lombok. 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.

Nagasaki is not a beach destination.

Is Lombok or Nagasaki Better for Hiking?

Lombok is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Nagasaki is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Lombok. 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.

Nagasaki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lombok or Nagasaki?

Lombok is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Nagasaki is a great destination for shopping. Head to the waterfront for the best shopping opportunities. You'll find everything from malls to souvenir shops around town. You'll also find traditional market streets which are known as shōtengai.

Is Lombok or Nagasaki More Beautiful?

Lombok is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Nagasaki is not a destination known for its beauty.

Lombok is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

Nagasaki is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lombok or Nagasaki Better for Families?

Lombok is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lombok. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nagasaki. Check out Agiruno Oka Park, which has a small farm and other recreational activities. There are also several kid-friendly museums like the Nagasaki City Science Museum and the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium. There are also many parks and playgrounds as well as the Nagasaki Seaside Park.

Is Lombok or Nagasaki Better for Couples?

Lombok is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Lombok makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Nagasaki is a nice destination for couples. There's a unique cuisine with good restaurants. There are also many parks where couples can take a stroll, as well as relaxing hot springs nearby.

Is Lombok or Nagasaki Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lombok, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. 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.

Nagasaki is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels in the city, but you really should make reservations in advance as they tend to fill up.

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

Nagasaki is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its public transit.

The public transit in Nagasaki can get you around easily. The city has four tram lines as well as city buses.

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 Nagasaki a more walkable city?

Nagasaki is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Nagasaki is a somewhat walkable place. Many parts of the city can be explored by foot. The downtown is about a kilometer from Nagasaki Station and the Peace Park is several kilometers in the other direction from the station.

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 Nagasaki Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nagasaki or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or Nagasaki?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lombok and Nagasaki. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lombok than in Nagasaki. Usually, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nagasaki.

Families should spend more time in Lombok than Nagasaki. 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 Nagasaki. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lombok than Nagasaki 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 Lombok.

One day in Lombok or Nagasaki?

The beautiful island of Lombok offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Nagasaki. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lombok or Nagasaki?

Lombok is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki?

Lombok is a popular choice for travelers. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than five days exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nagasaki. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lombok or Nagasaki?

Lombok is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one week is probably not enough for all of it. This island offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the interesting destination of Nagasaki. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lombok and Nagasaki, we can see that Nagasaki is more expensive. And not only is Lombok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Nagasaki would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nagasaki 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 Nagasaki Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Lombok or Nagasaki?

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

Should I visit Lombok or Nagasaki in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lombok and Nagasaki. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Lombok year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nagasaki for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lombok is around the same temperature as Nagasaki. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lombok in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Nagasaki averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Nagasaki receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Lombok usually receives less rain than Nagasaki. Lombok gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 334 mm (13.1 in) of rain each month for the summer. May to September in Lombok is the dry season.

Should I visit Lombok or Nagasaki in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lombok as well as Nagasaki. Lombok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Nagasaki in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Lombok is generally a little warmer than Nagasaki. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 28°C (82°F), and Nagasaki fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

It's quite rainy in Nagasaki. Lombok receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lombok usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Nagasaki. Lombok gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April in Lombok is the rainy season.

Should I visit Lombok or Nagasaki in the Winter?

Both Nagasaki and Lombok are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Lombok throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Nagasaki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lombok is much warmer than Nagasaki in the winter. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Nagasaki fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Lombok usually receives more sunshine than Nagasaki during winter. Lombok gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Nagasaki receives 112 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lombok usually receives more rain than Nagasaki. Lombok gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lombok or Nagasaki in the Spring?

Both Nagasaki and Lombok during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Lombok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Nagasaki because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Lombok is much warmer than Nagasaki. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lombok in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Nagasaki averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Nagasaki gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lombok usually gets less rain in April than Nagasaki. Lombok gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Nagasaki receives 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year. May to September is the dry season in Lombok. November to April is the rainy season in Lombok.

Typical Weather for Nagasaki and Lombok