A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mount Bromo vs. Kuala Lumpur for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur?

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

Should I visit Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo is a scenic, spectacular, and breathtaking volcano. Mount Bromo is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Mount Bromo travel costs.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a colorful, historic, and modern city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Kuala Lumpur is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Kuala Lumpur travel costs.

Mount Bromo and Kuala Lumpur: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Petronas Twin Towers


Is there more to do in Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kuala Lumpur. Although Mount Bromo and Kuala Lumpur are both popular with visitors, Kuala Lumpur has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kuala Lumpur is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Mount Bromo is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Mount Bromo is popular for its sunrise views and scenic setting. Kuala Lumpur is popular for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants. It is also home to The Petronas Twin Towers.

The Petronas Twin Towers
The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Mount Bromo different from Kuala Lumpur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur?

Mount Bromo
Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Mount Bromo does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Kuala Lumpur from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.

Mount Bromo does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mount Bromo
Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Mount Bromo is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Kuala Lumpur is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Mount Bromo. You'll find cheap noodle and rice dishes at the warungs in Cemoro Lawang. Some hotels have breakfast and you should pick up some food and water for the hike at a grocery store in town. There are also some stalls along the route, some that are open even at 3am to accommodate early hikers.

Is Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur Better for Nightlife?

Mount Bromo
Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a great city for nightlife. However, Mount Bromo is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Kuala Lumpur has something for everybody. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.

People don't go to Mount Bromo for the nightlife. The stars and the early morning hike are the only nightlife you'll find here.

Is Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur Better for Hiking?

Mount Bromo
Kuala Lumpur

Mount Bromo is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Mount Bromo. The setting is beautiful, and best experienced at sunrise, which means most people hike through the night. Some people take horses and most people organized guided tours.

Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur?

Mount Bromo
Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for shopping. However, Mount Bromo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Kuala Lumpur. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi areas.

Mount Bromo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur More Beautiful?

Mount Bromo
Kuala Lumpur

Mount Bromo is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Mount Bromo is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The setting and landscapes are spectacular, particularly at sunrise when most visitors make the trip.

The beauty of Kuala Lumpur is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This city's beauty really comes from the welcoming and helpful personality of its residents, but the neighborhoods also have historic charm and character.

Is Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur Better for Families?

Mount Bromo
Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano for its family-friendly activities.

Kuala Lumpur is a very family-friendly destination. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.

Mount Bromo is a family-friendly place to visit. It really depends on the age of your kids and their personality and adaptability as to whether this is a good trip for them. Many of the tours start in the middle of the night so you can see the spectacular sunrise. The trip can be a bit uncomfortable, but everyone is guaranteed an adventure!


Is Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur Better for Couples?

Mount Bromo
Kuala Lumpur

With fun activities for couples, both Mount Bromo and Kuala Lumpur make for a superb place to visit.

Mount Bromo is a great volcano if you're traveling as a couple. Romantic sunrises and stunning views make this a wonderful destination for couples. The surroundings are surreal and you will long remember the experience.

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place to visit for couples. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.

Is Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mount Bromo
Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano for backpackers.

Kuala Lumpur is very popular with the backpacker crowd. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.

Mount Bromo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Some backpackers choose to go without a guided tour, and this will let you save money. Cemoro Lawang is the closest town to the volcano.

Is Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur Better for Students?

Mount Bromo
Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Mount Bromo is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Kuala Lumpur. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.

Mount Bromo is not popular with students.


Is Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mount Bromo
Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Mount Bromo is not known for its public transit.

Visitors in Kuala Lumpur can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

Public transit is generally limited in Mount Bromo. Most people visit with a guided tour because this saves a lot of time and allows you to see the sunrise.

Is Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur a more walkable city?

Mount Bromo
Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a great city for its walkability. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano for its high level of walkability.

Kuala Lumpur is very walkable. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist areas.

Mount Bromo is a somewhat walkable place. The walk takes you across the sand and up some stairs. It's usually less than an hour.

For even more information, also check out Is Mount Bromo Worth Visiting? and Is Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kuala Lumpur or Mount Bromo?

How long in Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur?

In either Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Mount Bromo because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Mount Bromo, and 1-5 days is enough time in Kuala Lumpur.

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

Couples should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Mount Bromo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kuala Lumpur that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Mount Bromo 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 Kuala Lumpur.


  • How many days in Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mount Bromo 1-2 
    Kuala Lumpur 1-5

One day in Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur?

In Mount Bromo, many people enjoy the that this scenic volcano offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this volcano.

Kuala Lumpur is a colorful city where you can fill many days. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur?

Mount Bromo is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Kuala Lumpur is a colorful big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur?

You'll find around the breathtaking destination of Mount Bromo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Kuala Lumpur is a colorful city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur?

Mount Bromo is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kuala Lumpur. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Indonesia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia.


Which place is cheaper, Kuala Lumpur or Mount Bromo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Mount Bromo is $25, while the average daily cost in Kuala Lumpur is $83. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Mount Bromo and Kuala Lumpur in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mount Bromo $10
    Kuala Lumpur $41
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mount Bromo $20
    Kuala Lumpur $82
Compare Hotels in Mount Bromo and Kuala Lumpur

Looking for a hotel in Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Mount Bromo


Hotels in Kuala Lumpur


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Kuala Lumpur Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mount Bromo $7.03
    Kuala Lumpur $7.21

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Kuala Lumpur are as follows:


  • Taxi Ride
    $3.57
  • Metro Ride (for Two)
    $0.76
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $3.57
  • Taxi From Airport
    $21
  • Bus from Airport
    $1.90
  • Train & Boat to Pulau Ketam
    $2.85

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kuala Lumpur

Also for Kuala Lumpur, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Transfer from KLIA/KLIA2 to Singapore: $270
  • Arrival Transfer from KLIA/KLIA2 to Penang: $270
  • ~Chauffeur: Kuala Lumpur to Kuantan Transfer [MPV]: $268
  • Chauffeur: Kuala Lumpur to Penang Island Transfer [Car]: $266
  • Cameron Highlands Transfer Private (Per Vehicle): $260
  • Cameron Highlands One Way Transfer: $259
  • Chauffeur: Kuala Lumpur to Desaru Transfer [Car]: $240
  • Private Transfer from Shah Alam city to Malacca Cruise Port: $239
  • KUL Hotel to Johor Bharu(One Way Transfer): $237
  • Arrival Transfer from KLIA/KLIA2 to Johor Bharu: $237
  • Chauffeur: Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands Transfer [Car]: $234
  • Kuala Lumpur City Hotels to Singapore City Hotels 1-way Transfer: $230

Is it cheaper to fly into Mount Bromo or Kuala Lumpur?

Prices for flights to both Kuala Lumpur and Mount Bromo change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Mount Bromo $8.84
    Kuala Lumpur $29

Typical Food Prices in Kuala Lumpur

For Kuala Lumpur, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner at Ding Tai Fung
    $9.51
  • Roti Bread
    $0.24
  • Food Court Lunch
    $3.42
  • Dinner at Indian Restaurant (for Two)
    $5.11

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kuala Lumpur

For Kuala Lumpur, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Night Tour Batu Caves and South Indian Dinner: $20
  • From Batu Caves Night Tour + Indian Set Dinner: $28
  • Nightlife Street Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $41
  • Laksa Lanes Kuala Lumpur Food Tour with 14+ Tastings: $49
  • Sambal Streets Kuala Lumpur Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $49
  • Sambal Street Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $52
  • Best Local Food Tour by Night at Kuala Lumpur : $55
  • Glowing Firefly Private Tour With Dinner: $59
  • Malaysia Cooking Classes With Local: $60
  • Kuala Lumpur Food Tour: $60
  • Kuala Selangor Fireflies and Blue Tears Tour with Dinner (SIC): $62
  • Malaysian Hands-On Cooking Class : Masala Medley : $63

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mount Bromo $7.88
    Kuala Lumpur $15

Typical Entertainment Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Kuala Lumpur's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • KL Tower Admission (for Two)
    $11
  • Canopy Walk at FRIM Forest Reserve
    $1.19

Tours and Activities in Kuala Lumpur

For Kuala Lumpur, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Adventure Sports & Thrilling White-water Rafting in Kampar River: $182
  • Cameron Highland Day Tour From Kuala Lumpur By Group: $155
  • Full Day Kuala Lumpur City Tour with Petronas Twin Tower Tickets: $95
  • Half Day Kuala Lumpur Culture And Communities Exploration Tour: $30
  • Historic And Heritage Melaka Tour: $55
  • KL Tour with Petronas Twin Towers Observation Deck & Batu Cave: $145
  • KLCC Lake Symphony & The River of Life Tour from Kuala Lumpur: $33
  • Kuala Lumpur (Genting Highlands 7.5 hours Private Tour): $61
  • Kuala Lumpur Full Day City Tour Cruise Excursion from Port Klang: $65
  • Kuala Lumpur Half Day Family Tour With Aquaria KLCC : $105
  • Malacca Instagram Tour: Most Famous Spots (Private & All-Inclusive): $184
  • Petronas Twin Tower Tickets with City Tour: $80

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mount Bromo $4.43
    Kuala Lumpur $6.58

Typical Alcohol Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Kuala Lumpur are as follows:


  • Bottle of Wine
    $11


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

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