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

Should you visit Lombok or San Jose?

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 San Jose. 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. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Lombok travel costs.

San Jose

San Jose is a traditional, colorful, and bustling 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 San Jose travel costs.

Lombok and San Jose: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lombok or San Jose?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lombok. Although Lombok and San Jose are popular destinations, Lombok has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lombok is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while San Jose attracts visitors for its nightlife and big city activities. Lombok is more touristy than San Jose and is known for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. It is also well known for Mount Rinjani. San Jose is famous for its colorful markets and vibrant nightlife, as well as its easy access to the rest of the country.

How is Lombok different from San Jose?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 San Jose. Despite most people rushing through town, there are a number of museums, plazas, and interesting buildings that are worth checking out.

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

Lombok is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Lombok. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in San Jose. Most people miss out on local cuisine during their time in Costa Rica, but the capital city offers the best opportunities to eat like a local. You can sample favorite local dishes such as chifrijo, gallo pinto, rondón, and casado. You should also wander through the Central Market and dine at one of the many local restaurants.

Is Lombok or San Jose Better for Nightlife?

San Jose 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 San Jose for the nightlife scene. This city has the best nightlife in all of Costa Rica. You'll find a diversity of clubs and bars that are fun to explore. Check out the reggae bars, dance clubs, and sports bars (where you can enjoy a soccer game) while you're in town.

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 San Jose Better for Resorts?

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

Lombok is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

San Jose is not a resort destination.

Is Lombok or San Jose Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, San Jose is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Lombok specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

San Jose is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lombok or San Jose Better for Beaches?

Lombok is very popular for its beaches. However, San Jose is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Lombok are among the best in the world. 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.

San Jose is not a beach destination.

Is Lombok or San Jose Better for Hiking?

Lombok is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, San Jose 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.

San Jose is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lombok or San Jose?

If you're looking to go shopping, Lombok and San Jose both offer plenty of great spots.

Lombok is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in San Jose. There are a number of unique things you can buy in the city including jewelry, handbags, and wood workings. Make sure you check out the Central Market.

Is Lombok or San Jose More Beautiful?

Lombok is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, San Jose 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.

San Jose is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lombok or San Jose Better for Families?

Lombok is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, San Jose is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

Lombok is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

San Jose doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Most people pass through the city quickly, but if you have a day or two to explore, you can visit the Children's Museum (Museo de los Niños), Spirogyra Butterfly Gardens, or explore the Central Market.

Is Lombok or San Jose Better for Couples?

Lombok is very popular for romance. However, San Jose is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Lombok has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Most people don't think of San Jose as a couple's destination. While Costa Rica is a popular honeymoon destination, the capital city is often overlooked for the beaches and rainforests around the country.

Is Lombok or San Jose Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

San Jose is a great island to visit for backpackers. Backpackers appreciate the affordability of the city and the wide range of hostels that you can choose from. The city also offers an authentic glimpse of life in Costa Rica.

Is Lombok or San Jose Better for Students?

San Jose is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lombok is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit San Jose. Many students come to Costa Rica to study the country's amazing environment and unique ecological systems. San Jose makes a good base as its easy to travel to other parts of this small country.

Lombok is not popular with students.

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

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

While San Jose offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses that travel through the city during the daytime hours.

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 San Jose a more walkable city?

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

San Jose is a somewhat walkable place. It can feel a bit chaotic, but it's relatively easy to get around on foot.

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 San Jose Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Jose or Lombok?

How long in Lombok or San Jose?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lombok or San Jose to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lombok than San Jose because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 10-14 days is a good amount of time for Lombok, and 1-2 days is enough time in San Jose.

Families should spend more time in Lombok than San Jose. 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 San Jose. 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 San Jose 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 San Jose?

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 San Jose. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lombok or San Jose?

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.

San Jose 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 San Jose?

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 San Jose. 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 San Jose?

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 colorful destination of San Jose. 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 Budget Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lombok and San Jose, we can see that San Jose 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 San Jose is in Central America, 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 San Jose would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Jose 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 San Jose Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Lombok or San Jose?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Lombok or San Jose in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lombok and San Jose. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Lombok year-round. San Jose attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

May to September in Lombok is the dry season. San Jose receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Lombok usually receives less rain than San Jose. Lombok gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In July, Lombok is generally around the same temperature as San Jose. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 26°C (79°F), and San Jose fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Lombok or San Jose in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lombok as well as San Jose. Lombok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to San Jose throughout the year.

November to April in Lombok is the rainy season. Also, December to April in San Jose is the dry season. Keep in mind that May to November is the hurricane season in San Jose. It's quite rainy in San Jose. Lombok receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lombok usually gets less rain in October than San Jose. Lombok gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain this time of the year.

Lombok is around the same temperature as San Jose in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lombok averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and San Jose fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Lombok or San Jose in the Winter?

Both San Jose and Lombok are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Lombok throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to San Jose because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In January, Lombok usually receives more rain than San Jose. Lombok gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

It's quite sunny in San Jose. Lombok usually receives less sunshine than San Jose during winter. Lombok gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while San Jose receives 264 hours of full sun in the winter.

In the winter, Lombok is around the same temperature as San Jose. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lombok in January average around 28°C (82°F), and San Jose averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Lombok or San Jose in the Spring?

Both San Jose 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to San Jose year-round.

May to September is the dry season in Lombok. November to April is the rainy season in Lombok. December to April is the dry season in San Jose. Also, May to November in San Jose is the hurricane season. Lombok usually gets more rain in April than San Jose. Lombok gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

In April, Lombok is generally around the same temperature as San Jose. Daily temperatures in Lombok average around 28°C (82°F), and San Jose fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

Typical Weather for San Jose and Lombok