Are you dreaming of Bali but unsure where to start? Many wonder about the actual cost, where to stay, and how to put together a trip that maximizes their experience. Here's a complete guide to simplify your planning — based on our own years of experience on the island.
How much does a trip to Bali cost?
Bali can be both affordable and luxurious — it all depends on how you travel. Here's a realistic cost breakdown for Norwegian travelers in 2026.
Flights cost from 10,000 NOK per person round trip from Norway. Book 2–4 months in advance for the best price; Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and KLM are popular choices.
Accommodation ranges from 300–800 NOK per night for budget, 800–2,000 NOK for mid-range, and 2,000–6,000+ NOK for luxury.
Transportation — scooter rental costs from 149 NOK per day, while a private driver costs 700–1,000 NOK per day and is our recommendation for day trips.
Activities — day trips from 999 NOK, snorkeling with manta rays from 999 NOK, and Mount Batur sunrise from 500 NOK.
Food — local warungs cost 50–100 NOK per dish, mid-range restaurants 100–300 NOK, and beach bars/cocktails from 100 NOK.
For total travel costs for two people for 10–14 days, you can expect 20,000–35,000 NOK for budget travel, 40,000–70,000 NOK for mid-range, and 80,000–120,000+ NOK for luxury. Bali offers much more value for money compared to Europe — and mid-range in Bali is equivalent to luxury experiences at home.
We put together a tailored price proposal based on your wishes, travel dates, and number of people — with no obligation.
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Where should you stay in Bali?
Your choice of area significantly impacts your experience. Bali is not one place — it's many destinations on one island, catering to entirely different travelers.
Uluwatu offers spectacular cliffs, private villas, and some of Bali's most beautiful sunsets. The Uluwatu Temple at sunset is an unforgettable experience. Perfect for couples and honeymoons.
Ubud gives you jungle, rice terraces, and temples at a slower pace with a more authentic Bali experience. Perfect for those who want to experience the culture, take a guided day trip in Ubud, or participate in retreats and yoga.
Canggu has surf, beach clubs, and a modern vibe with lively nightlife and an international atmosphere. Perfect for younger travelers and those who want energy around them all day.
The Nusa Islands offer crystal-clear water, snorkeling, and nature. Nusa Penida is Bali's most photogenic destination with Kelingking Beach and Angel's Billabong — perfect as a grand finale to your trip.
Most Norwegians get the most out of their trip by combining 2–3 areas. Our favorite combo is Uluwatu (3–4 days) + Ubud (3–4 days) + Nusa Penida/Lembongan (2–3 days). This gives you beach, culture, and island paradise in one trip — without spending too much time on transportation.
Our popular round trip combines Uluwatu, Ubud, and island hopping — tailored for Norwegian travelers by experts who have lived in Bali.
See Bali and island hopping 10 days →
How to make the most of your Bali trip
This is where many go wrong — and where you can have a completely different experience than the average tourist.
Don't overplan. Bali takes longer to travel around than you might think. Stick to 2–3 areas and avoid changing hotels every other day. 1–2 activities per day is enough — you're on vacation, not a competition.
Use a private driver. A private driver with a car costs from 700–1,000 NOK per day and is the best investment you'll make in Bali. You avoid navigating, parking, and negotiating — and the driver always knows the best local spots.
Combine experiences and relaxation. Don't fill your days with activities. The best Bali memories are often created in quiet moments — a sunset from your villa, breakfast by the rice fields, or a spontaneous trip to a local market.
Plan the most important activities in advance — especially if you're traveling during peak season (July–August). Mount Batur sunrise starts at 02:00 and requires a guide booked in advance. The Nusa Penida day trip is a long day with an early start. Snorkeling with manta rays is weather and tide-dependent. ATV in the jungle is popular and should be booked early, and surf lessons are available for beginners and intermediates.
Choose the right area from the start. The area you start in determines whether your trip feels stressful or perfect. Consider what you want most — beach, culture, nature, or city life — and build your itinerary around it.
Example of a perfect 12-day Bali trip
This itinerary is our most popular among Norwegian travelers and offers a good balance between experience and relaxation: Days 1–4 in Uluwatu with beach, temples, and sunset. Days 5–7 in Ubud with rice fields, culture, and jungle. Days 8–11 on Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida with island paradise and snorkeling. Day 12 return home.
This combination gives you beach, nature, and experiences — without spending too much time on transportation between places. See an example of such a trip here.
A Bali trip is best when it's tailored to you — not randomly put together. We are Norwegian experts who have lived in Bali and can help you with your itinerary, activities, transportation, and the entire experience.
Tailor your Bali trip → See all trips →