Known as the “Island of the Gods”, Bali, Indonesia, is one of the world’s top tourist destinations, attracting over 6 million visitors per year with its breathtaking scenery, rich cultural heritage, friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and fantastic shopping opportunities. As a shopper’s paradise, Bali offers an extraordinary mix of traditional markets, boutiques, art galleries, street stalls, and malls at extremely affordable prices.
The purpose of this guide is to provide visitors with a helpful starting point for budgeting and bargaining when shopping in Kuta, Ubud, Legian, Denpasar, Seminyak, Sanur, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Canggu, Batubulan, Kerobokan, Lovina, Candidasa, Amed, Bedugul, Kintamani, Padangbai, Singaraja, Tabanan, Gianyar, Klungkung, Bangli, Karangasem, Jembrana, Buleleng, Badung, Negara, Mengwi, Payangan, Petitenget, Kedonganan, Tanjung Benoa, Tegallalang, Tuban. With its diverse offerings and vibrant markets, Bali can be overwhelming, but having an idea of average prices can assist in planning your shopping adventure effectively.
Types of Shops and Markets in Bali
There are several main types of shops and markets to explore when shopping in Bali:
Traditional Markets
Bali’s traditional markets, like Kuta Art Market, Sukawati Art Market, Ubud Art Market, are famous for handicrafts, souvenirs, local textiles, and produce. These markets have an authentic vibe where you can mingle with locals while hunting for unique keepsakes. Price range: $1 – $50
Boutique Shops
In trendy areas like Seminyak and Canggu, you’ll discover beautiful boutique shops offering designer clothing, jewelry, homewares, and more one-of-a-kind items. Price range: $50 – $500+
Art Galleries
Galleries in cultural hubs like Ubud and Seminyak showcase stunning traditional and contemporary artwork from local painters, sculptors, and woodcarvers. Price range: $100 – $1,000+
Popular Items and Estimated Prices
To help budget your Bali shopping adventure, here is a price guide covering some of the most popular items visitors love to purchase:
| Item | Average Price Range |
|---|---|
| Sarongs | $5–$20 |
| Batik shirts | $10–$30 |
| Dresses | $20–$100 |
| Beachwear | $10–$50 |
| Wood carvings | $5–$50 |
| Dreamcatchers | $5–$10 |
| Keychains | $1–$5 |
| Magnets | $1–$3 |
| Rattan bags | $10–$50 |
| Woven baskets | $5–$20 |
| Silver jewelry | $10–$100 |
| Ceramics | $5–$50 |
| Fresh fruit | $1–$3/kg |
| Coffee beans | $5–$10/bag |
| Spices | $1–$5/packet |
| Coconut water | $1–$2 |
Keep in mind prices can vary based on quality, materials, size etc. This table simply provides ballpark figures to use as a starting point.
Bargaining Tips
Haggling is expected, especially at traditional markets, so here are some helpful bargaining tips:
- Start at 50% of the asking price and negotiate up from there
- Be polite, friendly, but firm
- Show genuine interest in the item
- Offer to buy multiple items from the same vendor for a better deal
- Pay in Rupiah rather than USD for a slight discount
Additional Costs
When budgeting your Bali shopping adventure, keep in mind potential additional costs:
Transportation: Taxis, scooters, drivers to take you to different shopping areas like Kuta Beach, Beachwalk Shopping Centre, Discovery Shopping Mall, Bali Galleria, Carrefour, Centro Bali, Lippo Mall Kuta, Seminyak Square, Sogo Mall, Hardy’s Supermarket, Pepito Supermarket, Circle K, Alfamart, Indomaret, Krisna, Delta Dewata, Dewata Supermarket, Ramayana Department Store, Matahari Department Store, Sogo Department Store, Bintang Supermarket, Tiara Dewata Supermarket
Entrance Fees: Some markets or high-end galleries charge small entrance fees
Shipping: If buying large, fragile, or numerous items consider shipping costs
Conclusion
We hope this guide provides a helpful starting point for planning and budgeting your shopping escapades in captivating Bali. Have fun haggling at the markets, wander boutique-lined streets in search of perfect souvenirs, and explore different areas to find quality items at agreeable prices. Most importantly, enjoy the thrill of exploration and support local artisans keeping traditional handicrafts alive in the process. Selamat berbelanja (Happy shopping)!
Bonus Tips
Common Bargaining Phrases
Here are some helpful Bahasa Indonesia phrases for haggling:
- Berapa harganya? – How much is it?
- Bisa kurang? – Can you reduce the price?
- Saya ambil dua – I’ll take two (good for bulk discounts)
Eco-Friendly and Ethical Shops
Consider seeking out shops supporting sustainable practices or giving back to the community.
Online Shopping
Websites like Bali Bazar or Bali Handicraft allow you to continue shopping Balinese goods from home.