A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ubud vs. Fiordland National Park for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Ubud or Fiordland National Park?

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 Ubud and Fiordland National Park. 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.

Ubud

Ubud is a breathtaking, popular, and famous town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Ubud is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Ubud travel costs.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a iconic, breathtaking, and world famous national park. The famous beauty of Fiordland National Park is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Fiordland National Park travel costs.

Ubud and Fiordland National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Milford Track
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Ubud or Fiordland National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ubud than Fiordland National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ubud is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, shopping, and small town charm, while Fiordland National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Ubud is more touristy than Fiordland National Park and is popular for its cultural and religious sites, dramatic rice paddies, and local handicrafts. Also, Ubud is famous for Tegallalang rice terrace. Fiordland National Park is well known for its world renowned hiking trails and stunning natural environments.

How is Ubud different from Fiordland National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ubud or Fiordland National Park?

Ubud
Fiordland National Park

Ubud is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Ubud specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The town is filled with temples and cultural sights such as the Ubud Monkey Forest, Goa Gajah (the Elephant Cave), the Ubud Royal Palace, and the Blanco Renaissance Museum.

Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Ubud or Fiordland National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ubud
Fiordland National Park

Ubud is a world-class destination for its restaurants. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Ubud has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. You'll find some of the best restaurants on Bali in this town. There is everything from family-owned eateries to award winning restaurants. Dishes range from vegan to meat-filled and you'll find both local favorites and western cuisine.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Fiordland National Park. Te Anau is a town that serves as the basecamp for the park, and there are a range of restaurants and cafes there. Once you're in the park the dining options are limited, so it's best to come prepared with your own food supplies.

Is Ubud or Fiordland National Park Better for Nightlife?

Ubud
Fiordland National Park

Ubud is very good for nightlife. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Ubud. The nightlife scene is mostly focused on cultural activities and live music. Many people head here to escape the party scene that is so popular elsewhere on the island.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fiordland National Park. There are few amenities in the park, so bring your own drinks and supplies.

Is Ubud or Fiordland National Park Better for Resorts?

Ubud
Fiordland National Park

Ubud is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Fiordland National Park is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Ubud is a perfect choice. You'll find beautiful luxury resorts with impressive pools and dramatic landscapes.

Fiordland National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Ubud or Fiordland National Park Better for Hiking?

Ubud
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Fiordland National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The park has world class hiking, and this is the main activity for most visitors. There are three main trails in the park, as well as many shorter hikes that you can do. Milford Track is probably the most famous hike, and it is often considered one of the best hikes in the world. Routeburn Track is a multi-day trek that passes through a variety of environments and landscapes. Other popular trails include Kepler Track, Hollyford Track, and Dusky Track.

Many visitors go to Ubud for the hiking trails. There are many stunning walks and hikes just outside of town. There are stunning views from Campuhan Ridge Walk, which is best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset. Jalan Subak Sok Wayah Walk will take you through the rice paddies and Kajeng Rice Field Walk is close to town but tucked away from the crowds. One of the biggest draws of the area is the Tegallalang Rice Terraces Walk.

Is the Shopping Better in Ubud or Fiordland National Park?

Ubud
Fiordland National Park

Ubud is a very popular place for shopping. However, Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ubud. Head to the Ubud shopping street for boutiques, markets, and local items. The town has grown into a shopper's paradise with many Balinese handicrafts around.

Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Ubud or Fiordland National Park More Beautiful?

Ubud
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Fiordland National Park is one of the main draws. This is one of the most beautiful parks in New Zealand. It has striking mountains, dramatic fjords, and pristine beech forests.

Ubud is a gorgeous place to visit. It's a stunning setting, which makes it appealing to tourists, but to truly enjoy the beauty you'll want to get a bit outside of town.


Is Ubud or Fiordland National Park Better for Families?

Ubud
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Fiordland National Park is very family-friendly. It's the largest national park in New Zealand, and it makes a great playground for the whole family. It's the perfect place to go for a hike or learn about the natural world. There are dolphins and seals, waterfalls, and glowworm caves. There are also fun adventures like kayaking and jet skiing.

Ubud offers lots of family activities. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the jungles and rice paddies. There are also many great restaurants that are family-friend. Ubud is a bit cooler than the beach towns of Bali, so kids will enjoy an escape from the hotter temperatures.

Is Ubud or Fiordland National Park Better for Couples?

Ubud
Fiordland National Park

Ubud and Fiordland National Park both first-rate destinations for a couple.

Ubud is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Honeymooners flock to this small town for its stunning scenery and beautiful temples. There are luxury hotels, spas, massages, and poolside escapes that will make for the perfect honeymoon. You'll also find world class restaurants and breathtaking hikes in the area.

Fiordland National Park makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who love the great outdoors will be in heaven in this stunning national park. There's gorgeous scenery, romantic boat trips, and world class hikes that are not to be missed.

Is Ubud or Fiordland National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ubud
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Fiordland National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. As the largest national park in New Zealand, this is a world class backpackers destination and it is filled with amazing multi-day treks and once in a lifetime experiences.

Ubud is very popular with the backpacker crowd. If you need a break from the party scene on Bali, then you'll enjoy the reprieve of this small town. There are still plenty of backpackers and hostels, but the town itself offers a more relaxed setting.


Is Ubud or Fiordland National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ubud
Fiordland National Park

Ubud is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ubud. Many people hire a vehicle or driver to explore the area. There are also tourist shuttles around with Perama Shuttle being one of the most established.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Fiordland National Park. Public transit is basically nonexistent in the park and there are few roads as well. Even so, having your own car is important as it gives you the flexibility to reach the sections that you want to visit.

Is Ubud or Fiordland National Park a more walkable city?

Ubud
Fiordland National Park

Ubud is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Ubud is very walkable. The town is generally walkable and easy to explore on foot, but you'll need other transportation if you want to get outside of town.

Fiordland National Park is generally not very walkable. There are trails throughout the park and it's possible to access it on foot via Routeburn Track from Mt. Aspiring National Park.

For even more information, also check out Is Ubud Worth Visiting? and Is Fiordland National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fiordland National Park or Ubud?

How long in Ubud or Fiordland National Park?

Ubud and Fiordland National Park both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Ubud than Fiordland National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Ubud, and 3-6 days is enough time in Fiordland National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ubud than Fiordland National Park 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 Ubud.


  • How many days in Ubud or Fiordland National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ubud 4-7 
    Fiordland National Park 3-6

One day in Ubud or Fiordland National Park?

You'll find nightlife and food around the breathtaking town of Ubud. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the food. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Fiordland National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Ubud or Fiordland National Park?

Ubud is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Fiordland National Park is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Ubud or Fiordland National Park?

Ubud is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Most people head to the area for the food. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Fiordland National Park. This national park offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Ubud or Fiordland National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ubud. Most people head to the area for the food. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The iconic national park of Fiordland National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Indonesia, The Best Budget Tours to Indonesia, The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Fiordland National Park or Ubud?

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 Ubud is $153, while the average daily cost in Fiordland National Park is $113. 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 Ubud and Fiordland National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ubud $128
    Fiordland National Park $48
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ubud $256
    Fiordland National Park $96
Compare Hotels in Ubud and Fiordland National Park

Looking for a hotel in Ubud or Fiordland National Park? 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 Ubud


Hotels in Fiordland National Park


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: Ubud Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ubud $1.75
    Fiordland National Park $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ubud

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ubud:

  • White Water Rafting Ubud Bali With Hotel Transfer: $30
  • Waterbom Bali Day Pass with Hotel Transfer: $76
  • Water Rafting With Private Transfer And Lunch: $85
  • Vip Airport Transfer : $32
  • Ayung River Rafting & Jungle Swing Ticket with Transfer: $69
  • Ubud White Water Rafting with Private Transfer & Lunch: $33
  • Ubud Cultural and Historical Guided Tour with Transfer: $46
  • Ubud Countryside Cycling Tour (Included Private Transfer & Lunch): $69
  • Ubud Bali Private Airport Transfers – Seamless & Stress-Free: $13
  • Ubud Airport transfer and pick up: $20
  • Ubud -Airport Private Transfer: $7.00
  • Try find your better than us! Airport transfer service in Denpasar APT-HTL(DPS) : $8.88

Is it cheaper to fly into Ubud or Fiordland National Park?

Prices for flights to both Fiordland National Park and Ubud 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
    Ubud $20
    Fiordland National Park $39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ubud

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ubud.

  • Ubud Mystic Dinner at Oracle of Spice Lemuria The Lost City: $17
  • Uluwatu Sunset & Romantic Dinner: $20
  • Cooking Class and Dinner in Traditional House by Food Lover Tour: $25
  • Ubud Cooking Class by Lemon Grass Cooking Class: $26
  • Afternoon Cooking Class & Making Bali Offering with Dinner: $29
  • Uluwatu Sunset Trip with Kecak Dance Show and Jimbaran Dinner: $30
  • Amazing Half-Day Uluwatu Sunset Tour with Jimbaran Seafood Dinner: $30
  • Be a real Balinese with Traditional Balinese Cooking Class: $30
  • Private Traditional Bali Cooking Class in Sidemen: $31
  • Cultural Evening Dinner: $31
  • Uluwatu Sunset Experience: Kecak Dance and Dinner at Jimbaran: $34
  • Ubud Cooking : All Inclusive Cooking Class: $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ubud $9.84
    Fiordland National Park $20

Tours and Activities in Ubud

Here are a few actual costs in Ubud for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Balaji Adventure Bali Quad Bike 350cc and Ayung Rafting: $48
  • Bali Rafting and ATV Private Tour Adventure: $105
  • Barong Dance and Waterfall tour in Bali: $35
  • Best Ubud Tours -All inclusive with private driver: $35
  • Explore Bali with Private ATV Ride + Tour with VW Car: $80
  • Full Day Private Tour from Tegenungan Waterfall to Tanah Lot: $55
  • Full Day Ubud Tour: $95
  • Lembongan Snorkeling Swim With Manta Rays and Island Tour: $55
  • Mount Batur Jeep Tour and Hot Spring: $24
  • Mount Batur Sunrise Jeep Tour & Natural Hot Spring: $40
  • Nusa Penida Island West Tour - All Inclusive: $37
  • One Day Tour Nusa Penida East & West Part : $49

Tours and Activities in Fiordland National Park

For Fiordland National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Te Anau: River Jet Boat and Bike Ride Tour with Local Guide: $139
  • Milford Sound: Premium Small Group Cruise with Canape Lunch: $404

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ubud $6.62
    Fiordland National Park $8.03


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

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