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Bali is blessed with picturesque beaches, rolling hills of rice terraces, and serene lakes and waterfalls that can transport you into a different world. So pack your bags and immerse yourself in everything Bali has to offer – a magical experience awaits!

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Welcome to Explore Bali Travel! We are a team of travel enthusiasts with a passion for discovering the beauty and culture of Bali. Our mission is to provide you with personalized and unique travel experiences that showcase the many wonders of this incredible island paradise.

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Bali Travel Guide

Bali – Island of Gods

Bali is unique, Bali is unmatched

There is no other place like Bali. A magical blend of a colourful culture, friendly people, stunning nature, countless activities, tropical weather, culinary delights, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful accommodation. Bali is rated regularly as one of the best travel destinations in the world – for very good reasons. There is something great for everyone to explore and discover.

Bali.com is fully dedicated to make your travel planning easier. Explore reliable & helpful tips about Bali so you can enjoy the best experience. 

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Activities & tours, eat & drink, body & soul, the ultimate quick-guide to bali in 3 minutes.

On our website you will probably find more information about Bali, than in a printed Travel Guide Book. The sheer amount of things to do and places can be quite overwhelming. If you have not been to Bali yet and want to get a brief overview, then this little Travel FAQ will help you to start your travel planning.

Bali - Must Know & Facts

Travelers from 90+ countries can now obtain a simple Visit Visa (B1, or also known as VISA ON ARRIVAL (VoA) - get it online or upon arrival)

Travelers from other countries or if you intend to stay longer than 60 days , or travel with a business purpose, then you need to apply for 211A Visit Visa  before you arrive.

Click for updated VISA regulations per country

TRAVEL REGULATIONS

There are several travel requirements that are necessary to be aware of which apply to ALL travelers

Click for updated TRAVEL regulations

Bali is so diverse and like any foreign country there are often different rules and regulations to be aware of. These are the things we suggest you do before booking flights and hotels:

• Check the Visa Regulations that apply to your nationality - Visa Regulations
• Check the general travel regulation & requirements you must follow before your arrival - Travel Regulations
• Choose the season and best month for you to visit Bali - Weather Guide
• Become aware of the different destinations and what they offer. Each region is very different (nature, climate, hotels, "crowds", prices, transportation facilities, suitable for families, etc) - Destination Guide
• Get familiar a bit with the unique culture and customs - Culture Guide
• Book hotels and Villas that are well located according to your needs. Always check the map and understand walking distance to beach, attractions, restaurants etc). What looks nearby might not be, and an hotel calling itself X Seminyak, might not be really in Seminyak - Book Hotels & Book Villas
• Make a list of what you would like to do and experience. Bali offers hundreds of things to do, visit and explore and see how far these attractions and sites are away from your hotel location. Understanding how to get from A to B can make or break a holiday. Check out our Transportation Guide and plan beforehand - Transportation Guide
• Rent a scooter if you can drive one, which would male it much more easy to get from A to B - Scooter Rental
• Make sure you get online in Bali and get a Data package - SIM & e-SIM cards
• Browse through our travel guide and find out more about Bali and how to get ready - Travel Guide
• Last but not least: Get good deals and choose quality experiences - BaliCard Selection and Discounts on 100 villas, plenty of activities.

Starting 14Feb 2024 every International traveler needs to pay IDR 150,000. More information and where and how to pay the levy:  Bali Tourism Tax

May, June, September are the very best months to visit Bali.

 In general, best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. This is when the weather is sunny and dry with little chance of rain, making it ideal for a tropical holiday.

More about best time to travel to Bali, the Weather per month and the overall Climate & different Seasons

Glad you asked 😉

Yes, we have launched our balicard that entitles you to 10% discount or more on an awesome  selection of villas, hotels, restaurants and numerous activities. .

Discounts on Accommodation, Rafting, Canyoning, Cooking Classes, Jewelry Making Classes, Car Rentals with Driver, Motor Scooter Rentals, SIMCard and Data top-ups, Jetski, Trekking, Scuba, Tours, Escape Rooms... and more

Purchase your BaliCard here granting discounts for up to 5 people

Something for everyone

In general one can say, that these destinations are the most popular and offer something for everyone .  Canggu & Berawa | Ubud | Seminyak | Sanur | Nusa Lembongan & Ceningan | Nusa Dua (more luxurious)

Check out our destination guide to get a clearer overview about what each destination and region in Bali is famous for and what you can expect there. Your holiday experience will depend greatly on choosing the right region and location that matches your preferences.

Tropical Climate

The climate in Bali is warm, humid, and tropical  characterized by high temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. Bali has two distinct seasons: the dry season, which runs from April to October and the wet season, which runs from November to March.

• During the dry season, temperatures typically range between 80-90°F (27-32°C) and humidity is relatively low. This is the most popular time for tourists to visit Bali, as the weather is sunny and dry with little chance of rain.
• During the wet season, temperatures are still warm but the humidity is higher and there is more rainfall. The island receives most of its annual rainfall during this time, and it can be quite heavy at times. Even though it's the rainy season, it doesn't rain all day, usually there are short spells of rain that might last an hour or two in the afternoon.
• The highlands and mountains are significantly cooler than the coastal areas
• The best time to visit would be during the dry season if you want to enjoy sunny and dry weather, but the island is a popular destination year-round and offer many activities to do even in the rainy season. Very best months to visit: May, June, September.
• You should pack light, comfortable clothing, a swimsuit, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat or sunglasses. It's also a good idea to pack a light rain jacket or umbrella for the occasional rain shower.  

More details and facts about Bali Weather, Climate, Temperatures, Rainfall & Seasons

As long as you can.

If you visit Bali from further away than 6-8h by plane, a solid 2 or 3 weeks is what you should aim for, so you have some time to adjust a potential jetlag and also time to explore and then relax.

Bali is a destination, that offers in general great value for money, whether you are traveling on a budget, or if you are the luxury traveler only seeking the best .

Accommodation USD 15-30 per room per night / a meal USD 2-4 / scooter rental per day USD 3-6

Mid-Segment 3 to 4*

Accommodation USD 80-120 per room per night / a meal USD 6-10 / scooter rental per day USD 3-6 / Car Rental per day USD 35-45

Luxury Segment 5* (Bali-Lux)

Accommodation USD 170-400 per room per night / a meal USD 12-20 / scooter rental per day USD 10-15 / Car Rental per day USD 60-100

The Bali-Supreme Experience - The Best of the Best

Accommodation USD 400+ per room per night / a meal USD 30-60 / scooter rental per day USD 10-15 / Car Rental per day USD 60-100

Imported Wines & Spirits are rather expensive compared to most other countries, due to an additional taxed imposed. A cocktail in a nice bar will cost you around USD 8-12.

• Amazing Accommodation Options
• Endless Summer
• The wonderful people of Bali
• Beaches of all styles and colours & Waves for Surfing
• Sightseeing
• Wellness, Health / Spirituality
• Art & Culture
• Family & Kids Friendly
• Culinary & Nightlife
• Scuba Diving 

Want to know more why this island is so magical and special? 

Bali has literally hundreds of places to visit and things to do - many hidden treasures. If we would have to pick 5, then that's our list:

• Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple with Kecak Dance before Sunset, and on the way back fresh BBQ seafood dinner on the beach in Jimbaran.
• Daytrip to the Rice Field Terraces (e.g. JatiLuwih ) and a stop at the temples Tirta Empul or Goa Gaja, closing the day with a traditional Dance performance in Ubud with a dinner in one of the many amazing restaurants in Ubud .
• Hit one of the amazing Beach Clubs in Canggu , such as the FINNS Beach Club or La Brisa for the day, and if you are up for it, stay till after sunset, when some of the coolest DJs get to work their art.
• Visit the Artist Villages of Mas or Celuk , and experience first hand how these masters are carving and creating the most amazing artworks. 
• The Mountains - Climb Mount Batur or if this is too difficult join for an e-bike tour through the villages and highlands of Bali. 

Of course there is more, scuba diving, golfing, trekking, canyoning, rafting, the animal parks, countless temples and religious sites, hundreds of amazing restaurants, bars, and clubs...the list is endless... that's why so many travelers come back.

If you are up to it, the best and easiest way to get around within a certain area, is if you rent a scooter (wear a helmet, and take it easy, bring an international driving license (or get one online here) .

The Gojek App ( Android , Apple ) allows you to call for a scooter taxi or a car taxi, like Uber), which is very affordable and easy to handle. You can also rent a car with a driver for a full day (8-10h) for ca USD45, which is a great way to go for tours or to manage larger distances.

if you get a cab, make sure you get a BLUEBIRD, the drivers are the most friendly, the most reliable and will take you from A to B without detours and usually switch on the meter without you having to ask.

We suggest strongly, get Internet Connection on your phone. To handle the map apps and navigate with google maps or Waze we suggest to get a Tourist SIMCard with data package (can be ordered here online).

More about Transportation in Bali

To rent a motorized scooter or motorbike of up to 150cc (more than enough) you will need to bring your national CAR driving license AND an international driving license, which is now mandatory in Bali. If you can't get an international driving license (IDP) in time, you can get one online by following the link below, that is accepted by the Indonesian authorities.

International Driving License Online Application

Simply put, the most wonderful people. It's difficult to find a more tolerant, easy going and welcoming culture in the world. Travelers feel it, there is something special about the Balinese, something, one must experience something unique and authentic, that has not been lost even though tourism has been part of Bali since more than 50 years now. 

More about the people and the culture of Bali

The main language is Bahasa Indonesia, but with English you will have absolutely no problems in Bali. The Balinese speak their own local language among each other (Bahasa Bali). Bahasa Indonesia is fairly easy, and if you manage to remember only a few words, you will open hearts and doors.

Basic Bahasa Indonesia Vocabulary 

Yes, you can visit Bali's Mountains and climb Volcanos. You might have heard in the news, that Bali's former Governor Koster issued a decree, forbidding climbing Bali’s mountains. This came as a response of several social media posts, were tourists gravely misbehaved, disrespecting the holy sites and Bali's cultural integrity overall. Yet, this decree has not been enforced and as it turned out, was not based on legal ground. There is no ban on visiting the mountains and volcanos. Some mountains might be temporarily closed at times, but the reasons will be usually weather conditions, volcanic activities, or ceremonies.

Trekking Tours to Bali's Sacred Mountains

Travel Itinerary Suggestions for visiting Bali for the first time

• A few days in  Sanur, Jimbaran or Nusa Dua , easy arrival and chill.
• Then Ubud  to discover the culture and natural sites of central and north Bali (Tours, Chilling, Health, Yoga).
• Hop over to  Lembongan and Ceningan Islands  for the tropical and more simple life style as Bali offered 30 years ago (and great diving).
• Conclude your trip with some going out, party, shopping, sunset chills in  Kuta, Legian, Seminyak or Canggu .

With that set of choices you will discover a lot…in 2 or 3 weeks…and when you come back to Bali…there is more, much more to discover and explore. Travelers have been coming to Bali for decades and return every year; they still discover new things and gain new experiences.

Yes, Bali's nightlife is a real treat. Kuta's reputation among the young and wild, mostly coming from Australia, is legendary. In high season and in November Kuta feels at times like a spring break fantasy. Seminyak offers the widest range of places to go out, also more upbeat and classy, while Canggu is catching up, even though the vibe in Canggu is more relaxed and less "crazy".

More on Bali's Nightlife, Clubbing and Party Scene

Yes, Bali has issued an official tourist guideline on hoe to behave when visiting the island of Gods. This came as a response to several incidences that blew up in social media, where tourists disrespected the laws, regulations and culture in Bali.

Bali's Guide to How to Behave and Cultural Guidelines

Depends on how one defines a paradise

Let's start with the challenging aspects. For one, Bali is not a paradise like the picture postcards of Maldives or the Bahamas suggest. The beaches of Kuta up to Canggu are quite stunning, and wide, and with fun waves to surf, but less tropical than one might expect. Mass tourism has left its mark on some places n the south, such as Kuta, Seminyak, and even Ubud. But many travelers love this aspect of Bai, because it comes with a wide variety of restaurants, bars, shops and with lots of accommodation options. Traffic can be a problem in the dense areas, such as Seminyak and Canggu,. where development was faster than roads were constructed,. IN peak season such as Christmas, traffic can be quite challenging overall. ...that's all not matching the idea of a paradise.

But, in many aspects Bali is and still is a paradise, and one of the best destinations in the world. Why? Because it is tolerant and inviting and lets you be who you want to be. It has an incredible variety of almost everything any traveler wishes to explore or experience. It offers great value for money, and an art and culture that is unique in this world, authentic, and alive. If you want to leave the mass tourism behind, all you need is a short drive and you will enter a Bali that has almost not changed in decades. There are countless areas and sites that are absolutely remote, quiet and almost untouched, where magnificent nature shows her beauty.

Bali is a paradise because of the whole package it offers, and not because it looks like a "white sandy beach coconut tree postcard" wherever you go.

Yes, for sure it's safer than other places. And single women can travel freely and safely. Of course, like everywhere else in the world, where there is tourism, there is crime and scam. But if you keep a normal level of common sense and don't fall into the traps of senseless drinking and drugs, you should be fine. The biggest threat is probably when untrained drivers rent a scooter and overestimate their skills and underestimate the complexity of the traffic. 

More on safety and health in Bali

Bali Destination Guide - Where to Stay in Bali

These are the most popular and best areas to stay in Bali. Each destination in Bali is quite different and worth a visit.

Destination Overview Get to know the main areas in Bali to visit and what they have to offer for a perfect holiday

Canggu & Berawa The best mix of Everything Bali has to offer - surfing, party, yoga, restaurants & cafes

Seminyak & Petitenget Luxury villas, great hotels, beach & surf, nightlife, amazing shopping & food

Kuta & Tuban Bali’s party place for the young and wild. Bars, Shopping, Beach Life & Party

Ubud Bali’s cultural center. Blend of art, spirituality, lifestyle, & culinary delights.

Nusa Dua & Benoa International 5star Resorts and golf courses for the luxury traveler

Legian Good mix of family friendly and going-out options

Sanur Quiet beaches, family friendly, beautiful restaurants & hotels

Uluwatu & Pecatu Deep in the south of Bali, great surf, amazing resorts, and villa estates & beach clubs

Ungasan & Kutuh Most southern coast of Bali. Cliffs and stunning nature.

Jimbaran & Kedonganan Family-friendly beach resorts and best seafood on the beach

Amed & Tulamben Quiet villages with some of the best diving and snorkeling spots

Bedugul, Puncak & Baturiti Mountain area with an iconic water temple & three lakes

Nusa Island “Sister” islands of Bali. Diving, Nature, blue sea, white beaches. Paradise

Sidemen The hidden Gem of Bali. Spectacular Rice terraces and landscapes

Batukaru A stunning Region in North Tabanan in the Highlands of Bali

Lombok Island next to Bali with stunning nature, volcano and surf spots

Gili Islands Full moon parties & snorkeling off the coast of Lombok

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Explore Bali

Plan Your Trip to Bali: Best of Bali Tourism

Travel advice, discover ayana’s dreamy hideaways for divine getaways in indonesia.

Essential Bali

Where to eat

My favorite street markets in Bali

How to do Bali in 3 days

Browse collections

Feeling fancy-ish.

Drinks with a view

Day trips around the island

Bali on a dime

Bali’s best beaches

For the wellness warriors

An extremely good time

Hang with wildlife

Beyond the beach

More Southeast Asian escapes

Bali Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing bali.

Yes, you do need to be careful crossing the road because the traffic can be crazy, however, I would have to be careful crossing a busy road near where I live.

Taxis are so easy to get all-around Bali, so don’t stress about that. You’ll need cash for them though unless you’re using an app like Grab which is really popular.

Do a lot of research but don't micro-plan every minute of your stay... it will all fall into place.

Surfing, scuba diving, great eats, and very friendly people are what Bali is all about to me. And, of course, you can't go to Bali without a massage.

Bali is a fantastic place for all travelers, young and old alike. I've been traveling to this fantastic tropical oasis for the past 30 years and I've seen a lot of changes in that time. It is my hope and wishes that you will find Bali to be one of your favorite places too.

Joannes Rhino

Beaches are Bali’s best asset, apart from its gorgeous cliff-side resorts, rooftop bars, and celebrity weddings. But have you ever heard of a beach with black sand, or one so exclusive you can find the rich and famous? This tropical island boasts many such secret places tucked away in its little corners, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea far away from the crowd.

Sun, sand, tropical forests, luxurious resorts, heavenly spas, and a food lover's paradise — whether you're celebrating a wedding, honeymoon, anniversary, Valentine's day, or simply want to enjoy some quality time together away from the humdrum of day-to-day life, indulge in the best of what romantic Bali has to offer!

What is the best way to get there?

Bali is served by one airport: the Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), just 13 km (~8mi) south of Denpasar, the capital of Bali and the main gateway to the island. Flights from major international cities regularly fly in and out of DPS. It is also well connected to most of Indonesia and has regular domestic flights connecting it to major cities within the country.

Travelers can take a bus from Jakarta (the capital of Indonesia) to Bali, but only if you can brave the 23-hour bus journey.

Bali is quite a popular port for most cruise liners traversing through Southeast Asia. To get into Bali through the sea route, take a flight to Singapore, Sumatra or Java and take a ship for your onward journey to Bali. The information desks at the airport will guide you thoroughly.

Do I need a visa?

Visa Regulations are based on your passport and nationality. Over 160 nationalities need no Visa and have free entry for a maximum stay of 30 days. Your passport must be valid at least 6 months out from the day of your arrival. For more information and the list of 160 countries,  see here .

When is the best time to visit?

May to September: Bali’s tropical climate has two distinct seasons: dry (between May to September) and wet (between October to April). May, June, and July are generally considered to be the best time to travel to Bali in terms of the weather. That is when temperatures hover around 80 Fahrenheit (27 Celsius). However, depending on whether the traveler is a surfer or explorer, preferences may change. During the dry season, May to October, the western side of the peninsula creates some of the world's best waves. The best advice is to check the estimated weather during the time of travel and pack accordingly.

For more information on Bali’s weather and when to go, you can check out some tips  here .

Most travelers are satisfied with either a bemo (chartered vehicles with driver) or taxi (metered). Travelers will hear the words "bemo, bemo, bemo" or "transport, transport" all over Bali. If the vehicle has a taximeter, travelers should insist that the meter must be turned on. Otherwise, the driver will offer a fixed fare, or say the meter is broken. If the vehicle is a "private" bemo and has no meter, it is typical to bargain for the cost of the charter before taking the ride.

For adventurers, a motorbike is a quick, but often dangerous, way to get around town. Travelers need to purchase insurance and must have an international license. Wear a helmet at all times and keep your license on you.

A bicycle is an inexpensive and scenic way to travel through Bali. Many villages have a place to hire a bike for the day. When exploring the backroads in places like Ubud and around Lovina, travelers may find a bicycle an ideal form of transport. However, cyclists should keep on the smaller roads and plan out each trip since Balinese road conditions are not always suited to long bike rides, with its steep hills and thick traffic on some of the main roads.

Check out more tips on getting around Bali  here .

On the ground

What is the timezone.

WITA (Central Indonesian Time)

What are the voltage/plug types?

230 Volts / 50 Hz. In Indonesia, they typically use Type C and Type F plugs.For plug types, you can reference this  international guide .

What is the currency?

Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Are credit cards widely accepted.

In some areas. Credit cards are usually accepted for larger purchases, accommodation (apart from smaller establishments), department stores, and larger restaurants. Always check though, as they are not accepted as widely as in Western Countries.

How much do I tip?

Tipping is not customary in Indonesia, but small gratuities for great service are very much appreciated. The exception is spa services. Most Indonesians give tips to their hairdresser or masseur after they complete the service. Just 5-10% of the bill is appropriate. Get more tipping tips  here .

Are there local customs I should know?

Spirituality.

The Balinese are extremely devout and spiritual. In Bali, there are more than 20,000 temples. The Balinese believe that good spirits dwell in the mountains and that the seas are home to demons. Therefore, most villages have at least three main temples: one of which is the Pura Puseh or “temple of origin,” is dedicated to the village founders and which faces Mt Agung — home to Pura Besakih the mother temple of Bali. Also, each home, rice field, or market can have several temples. Daily offerings are made at these temples in the form of food, cigarettes, sweets, and sometimes even money in order to honor the good spirits and satiate the evil spirits. Here’s a great overview of  culture in Bali .

• The Pirates Bay Bali
• Natti's Indian Specialty Restaurant Bali
• Minoo Beach Club
• Bulls Head Steakhouse
• Queen's Of India - Ubud
• Mount Agung
• Batur Natural Hotspring
• Bluebird Taxi Bali
• West Bali National Park Forest
• Mas Carving Center
• Mount Agung Sunrise Trekking Tour
• Private Diving Experience in Nusa Dua with Hotel Pick Up
• The Russian Bathhouse (banja)
• Mount Agung Sunrise Trekking Private Tours
• All Inclusive Mt Batur Sunrise, Breakfast & Hot Spring

The Ultimate Bali Itinerary: How To Plan The Perfect Trip To Bali

Planning a trip to Indonesia and looking for the best Bali itinerary? Whether you’re only spending 5 days, one week, 10 days, or two full weeks, I guarantee this Bali trip travel guide will be extremely helpful!

Bali is truly one of my favorite destinations in the world and a place I’ve called home several times. But planning a trip to Bali can be a bit intimidating as there really are so many amazing places to explore!

There’s no need to wonder why Bali has become one of the world’s most visited and popular vacation hotspots. It has jaw-dropping landscapes, lush rice terraces, stunning beaches, serene temples, cute monkeys, scenic waterfalls, wild nightlife, and unforgettable sunsets.

Bali really does have a little something for everybody, and I guarantee that if you follow this Bali travel itinerary, you will fall in love with this island just as much as I have!

While tourism in Bali has exploded in recent years due to the popularity of Instagram, it definitely lives up to the hype because there is a LOT more to this island than what you see on social media. Don’t let the annoying Bali IG couples + IG influencers deter you from planning a trip here because it is a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia!

Tip: Add something unique to your Bali travel plan by choosing to go glamping in Bali  instead of staying at a hotel.

Check out my Instagram page  for more holiday inspiration!

Whether you’re only spending a few days, two weeks, or even an entire month, this Bali Itinerary guide will go into loads of detail about what to expect about visiting this island, the best things to do, what to pack for Bali, when to go, insider travel tips, and loads more.  

So without further ado, let’s get started!

WHAT ARE THE BEST MONTHS TO VISIT BALI?

Bali is an incredible destination to visit year-round, and if you’ve only got limited time off work, I would say book that ticket no matter what! Being located in Southeast Asia, the weather in Bali is exceptionally tropical, so you can expect hot and humid temperatures pretty much every day, but there are two main seasons – the wet and dry months.

The rainy season in Bali is from October to April, and the dry season is between May – September.

That said, traveling to Bali during the rainy season is NOT an issue. I LIVED in Bali in December & January (known as the wettest months of the year), and I barely even noticed the rain.

Yes, some days were worse than others, but more often than not – every day was beautifully sunny blue skies and perfect beach weather.

According to Bali.com, “ The best time to come to Bali is April, May, June and September, just before and just after high season. It’s still the dry season, it’s slightly less humid, and room prices and villa rentals can be 30-50% cheaper than during high season. Many shops offer sales and promotions, restaurants are less crowded in those mid-season months, and in general, Bali is a bit more relaxed. October is not too bad either, still much less rain than November (usually, check the rainfall chart).”

I agree with that statement for sure, but traveling to Bali during Christmas time & New Year’s Eve can be an incredible experience. I spent Christmas Day lounging at a day club and absolutely loved it!  

IS BALI A DANGEROUS PLACE TO VISIT?

Absolutely not! Bali is completely safe to visit, and I’ve honestly never felt like I was in any danger while there. While just like a vacation to anywhere in the world, you want to make sure you’re traveling wisely and acting responsibly.

The only dangerous or unsafe behavior I’ve heard of is from “motorcycle thieves or purse-snatchers.” These are people that will try and grab purses or backpacks from people while riding on the back of a motorcycle. But as long as you pay attention to your belongings, nothing bad will happen.  

What I will  say in this section, though, is that you NEED to be extremely careful if you decide to rent a scooter in Bali. I’d say that’s actually the most dangerous thing on the island! I drive very cautiously when riding my moto , and I’ve never been in an accident (knock on wood), but I’ve had several friends end up in the hospital with serious injuries.

Nevertheless, I wouldn’t let that stop you from enjoying the feeling of exploring the island on two wheels. The scooter rides through rice terraces are one of my favorite things about living in Bali, and it’s a great, cheap, and efficient way to experience Bali. Just make sure the person driving is confident and skilled. You should also avoid driving during peak traffic hours.

Best Bali Trip Travel Insurance

I never travel anywhere without booking a travel insurance policy . This is essential for all Bali visitors!

So I’ll repeat…

Please, do NOT visit Bali WITHOUT Travel Insurance!

It’s unfortunately all too common that people come to Bali, get into a scooter accident, and end up needing a lot of medical attention. This, as you can imagine, is not cheap, and while the Bintangs and good vibes are, don’t expect medical treatment as a foreigner to also be of great value! These bills will add up, and sometimes they won’t even operate before they know you’re covered.

I’ve had at least 4 friends now get in serious accidents, but only half of them had travel insurance to cover their needs. Trust me – especially if you plan on driving or getting on the back of a moto (which you most likely will), you’ll want peace of mind to make sure you’re covered.

You also need to consider other issues that could arise, such as theft, boat sinking or water damage, or catching dengue. Trust me when I say these warnings aren’t to scare you, but real-life examples I’ve seen during my time in Bali.

I highly recommend HeyMondo due to its extensive range of cover for all situations and trip lengths. Their fair pricing and handy app allow you to manage any claims within the app and access free assistance online. This means you don’t need to rack up an expensive phone bill in Indonesia, where the charges are steep!

Nowadays, I would never travel without insurance again, especially after hearing so many of those (expensive and dangerous) horror stories from other travelers I’ve met. So, whether you need a single trip cover for two weeks in Bali or an affordable annual cover for multiple trips worldwide, be sure to buy your travel insurance before you travel, knowing that HeyMondo has your back.

Still, planning your trip? You can always get a no-commitment travel insurance quote now, so you know how much extra to budget for your vacation!

WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR A TRIP TO BALI? A BASIC PACKING LIST

One of the things I love about Bali is that you really don’t need to bring all that much — especially if you’re just on a quick 10-day or two-week holiday. Also, shopping in Bali is fantastic. You’ll want to bring back a separate suitcase filled with souvenirs and clothing.

Here are a few items I think are essential for your travels to Bali!  

• Clothing: You’ll want a couple of pairs of shorts, swim trunks, t-shirts, sandals, and comfortable adventure shoes. Add one or two fancier outfits for dinners or nightlife too. Everyone will have different styles or preferences, but my main clothing tip would be to keep it light. Quick-drying clothes will be helpful, mainly because you will sweat up a storm.  
• Portable charger: Anker PowerCore Portable Charger  is one of the smallest and lightest power banks available. I carry this with me everywhere I go because I’m using my iPhone a bit more than I care to admit! Well, when you’re exploring Bali, you’ll definitely want a portable charger.
• Microfiber towel: This Rainleaf MicroFiber Towel  is budget-friendly and stylish. Plus, a quick-drying towel is a must for visiting Bali. You’ll find yourself hiking, sweating, and swimming often – and you’re really going to want one of these. I just bought one of these myself, and it’s the #1 best seller on Amazon!
• Quality sunscreen: The sun is super intense in Bali, and you’ll be out in the sun often during this Bali itinerary. So, make sure you buy some decent sunscreen before you get to Bali because it costs SO much more out there for some reason. I personally use this Neutrogena Lightweight & Water Resistant SPF,  and I love it!
• Mosquito repellent: Unfortunately, mosquitos are flying all over the place in Bali. And you really want to protect yourself when you go on long adventures. I recommend this Mosquito Repellent Bracelet . If you’re just shopping around Seminyak or chilling in Canggu, I wouldn’t worry too much, but if you’re out in nature, definitely put some on!  
• Go Pro: The GoPro Hero 11 is my favorite adventure camera, and I’m truly blown away by the hyper-smooth stability that the GoPro Hero 11 offers. You can take some epic images with this, and it’ll also be perfect for all the underwater or snorkeling shots you’ll want. For the aspiring content creators out there, combine it with a TELESIN Dome Port  for some unique, fun, and creative shots!
• Waterproof phone case: No matter what kind of phone you have, you really want to protect it during your trip. This itinerary is pretty active, and if you don’t have a supportive phone case, like the JOTO Universal Waterproof Phone , I bet you’ll be paying for some phone repairs!  
• Power adapter: Last but certainly not least, this Universal Power Adapter  is just a basic travel essential that you’ll want to pick up one of these before your trip to Bali. I personally love this one and would definitely recommend it!  

THE ULTIMATE BALI TRIP ITINERARY | PLANNING A TRIP TO BALI

Alright, let’s dive into my guide for my extensive Bali holiday itinerary!

10 DAYS & TWO-WEEKS IN BALI ITINERARY

The way I’ve set up this 10-day itinerary is that it’s all focused on Bali. But if you have a full two weeks, I’ve included a trip to the Gili Islands too.

I think it’s best to do it this way because when you book round-trip boat transfers to Gili Trawangan, you can have them drop you off directly at the airport, depending on your schedule. You can book day trips or rent scooters to explore nearby attractions when you’re based in one place for a bit longer.

One thing I think is important about traveling around Bali is avoiding checking in and out of hotels and Airbnb’s every couple of days. That’s why I’ve put at least 3+ nights in each place, and you’ll get a better feeling for the area.  

The full itinerary is below, but here’s an overview of my recommended route so you can start planning:

• Uluwatu (3 Nights)
• Canggu (3 Nights)
• Ubud (4 Nights)
• Gili Islands (3-4 Nights for Two-Week Itinerary)

You might not have the time, energy, or money to do everything on this Bali itinerary, but I wanted to include as much information as possible. So without further ado, let’s get down to the day-to-day itinerary activities!!

BEST PLACES TO STAY ON THIS ITINERARY FOR BALI

Bali is home to some of the world’s most gorgeous luxury resorts and private villas but also has an extensive variety of mid-range hotels and backpacker hostels. It depends on your budget and how much you want to spend. I’ve compiled a fun selection of my top recommended accommodation for each destination on my Bali itinerary. I know you’ll enjoy your stay at any of the options below:

WHERE TO STAY IN ULUWATU

Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu : Consistently reviewed as one of the best values in Bali, get treated like royalty here without breaking the bank. There’s a gorgeous sun terrace with a swimming pool, extremely clean and comfortable rooms, and impeccable service!  

Six Senses Uluwatu : This brand new 5-Star Luxury Resort in Uluwatu will certainly provide an unforgettable stay, but rooms here are costly. Its cliffside location, delicious cuisine, and immaculate attention would make for an exceptional first hotel on the island.    

Home-Bience  Hostel : If you’re a backpacker on a tight budget in Bali, look no further than staying here at Home-Bience Hostel. While it has a shared kitchen and barbeque facilities, you can also get a varied breakfast at an affordable rate too.

WHERE TO STAY IN CANGGU

Theanna Eco Villa and Spa : Top-notch luxury at bargain prices! Once you step foot inside this eco resort, you’ll fall into a state of complete tranquility. It’s consistently rated and reviewed as the best hotel and resort in Canggu, with excellent value for money and world-class service.

Kosone Hostel | Alternative Beach : I was living in Canggu when this opened (early 2019), and I’d say it’s the best hostel in Canggu! It’s got a fabulous pool with a swim-up bar, DJs spinning music all day, delicious food, comfortable beds, and rooftop jacuzzis. Do I need to say anymore? Trust me – if you’re a backpacker in Canggu, stay here!  

WHERE TO STAY IN UBUD

Hanging Gardens of Bali | Ubud’s Premiere Luxury Resort : This is the jungle resort of your dreams! “Located just 30-minute drive from the Ubud’s town center and nestled deep in the heart of Ubud’s rich rainforest preserve, this enchanting five-star luxury resort on 3.2 hectares has 44 private suites and individual villas.”  

Visesa Ubud Resort : This best-seller luxury resort has fantastic prices for the comfort you’ll receive. The villas are absolutely stunning, the staff goes above and beyond, and it has pretty much everything you look for in a resort in Ubud. Delicious food, gorgeous views, shuttle services to the center, and a full spa await you.

Wayan’s Family Hostel Ubud : If you’re looking for an excellent but cheap hostel in Ubud, look no money than this charming family-run guesthouse. It has a magnificent backpacker atmosphere, is a beautiful property, and you’ll fall in love with the staff!

WHERE TO STAY ON GILI TRAWANGAN

Pearl Of Trawangan Resort : There are tons of beautiful resorts on the Gili Islands, but this is easily my favorite! It has an unbeatable beachfront location near the main promenade. The stunning property would be an excellent pick for your time in paradise!!

Gili Castle (formerly known as Gili Backpackers) : This is where I worked when I lived on Gili T, and I’ve got nothing but fond memories of this backpacker hostel! They organize awesome parties and pub crawls, which make it easy to meet fellow travelers. There is a pool with a rock climbing wall, and all the facilities are comfortable. I’d highly recommend staying here for young travelers on a budget.

BALI ITINERARY DAY 1: INTRODUCTION TO BALI = ULUWATU BLISS (3+ NIGHTS)

Honestly, there is no better place to begin your Bali vacation than down in Uluwatu , which is at the southern tip of the island!

It’s my personal favorite area in Bali, world-famous for its surf competitions, has a really fun nightlife scene, and is undoubtedly the best part of the island for watching the sunset. Uluwatu is a place that will certainly leave an impression and will keep you coming back for more! Here you can spend your days relaxing on the beach, swimming in infinity pools, lounging at day clubs, surfing gnarly waves, or riding a scooter along epic coastlines.  

It also has a perfectly relaxed atmosphere that I absolutely love, and I could easily see myself living in Uluwatu for a couple of months sometime in the future. There really is no shortage of amazing things to do in Uluwatu , which I’ve discussed for day 2. Since it’s your first day on the island, take the evening to relax at your resort, enjoy a lovely evening meal, and hopefully conquer any jet lag you’re feeling.  

If you’re up for it, you could enjoy dinner and cocktails your first evening having dinner soaking up the vibe. I recommend one of Jimbaran Bay’s cliffside restaurants or candlelit dinners on Jimbaran Bay, about a 15-20 minute drive from Uluwatu.

“Perched atop distinctive rock formations along Jimbaran’s pristine sunset coast, Rock Bar Bali is widely respected as one of the globe’s most popular sunset, cocktail, and entertainment venues. Showcasing unparalleled views from 14 meters above the Indian Ocean, Rock Bar is accessible via AYANA’s dramatic cliffside inclinator. Featuring a glamorous sunset vibe, and a seductive after-dark ambiance, listen to premier international DJs as they heighten your experience from a custom DJ booth carved directly into the cliff face”.

BALI ITINERARY DAY 2: ULUWATU BEACH EXPLORATIONS & NIGHTLIFE

Everyone will be different, depending on how you want to spend your Bali vacation. Do you want to treat this as a relaxing holiday, or are you more adventurous? Do you want to be surrounded by people and experience luxurious beach clubs, or do you prefer solitude and exploring quieter areas?

No matter what kind of traveler you are, I’ve listed a few of my favorite activities in Uluwatu and the south coast of Bali, and I’m sure this will keep you super busy.

ULUWATU HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Visit the Uluwatu Temple: “This one of six key temples believed to be Bali’s spiritual pillars, and is renowned for its magnificent location, perched on top of a steep cliff approximately 70 meters above sea level.”  After your tour of the Uluwatu Temple, I’d also suggest checking out the Kecak Fire Dance if you’re there simultaneously. It’s a unique cultural fire and traditional Balinese dance show that is definitely a superb experience.
• Watch the professional surfers at Uluwatu Beach: There are tons of different bars and restaurants to choose from, but sit back, grab a Bintang (local beer), and watch from above while these pros amaze you with their skills.  
• Explore all the beautiful beaches around Uluwatu: You’re spoiled for choice here with beaches like Suluban Beach, Padang Padang, Dreamland Beach, Bingin Beach, Melasti Beach, Green Bowl Beach, and Pandawa Beach.
• Never miss a sunset. Uluwatu is home to the most magical sunsets practically every evening, so make sure you plan accordingly! Find an infinity pool, rooftop bar, or restaurant terrace, and soak it up!
• Check out a day club: Sundays Beach Club, Finns Beach Club, OMNIA, Karma Beach Club, etc. Honestly, there are tons of epic places to spend a day, but they can be a bit pricey if you’re a backpacker on a budget!  
• Sunday nights at Single Fin: This is one of the most legendary parties on the island, but they only really happen on Sunday night. Don’t get me wrong, Single Fin is an awesome bar & restaurant every night of the week, but definitely, don’t miss the Sunday night party.  
• Spend Saturday nights at Padang Padang Beach: There’s a really cool beach party every Saturday night with reggae and electronic music, lively crowds, and a unique location!  
• Rent a moto to explore it all easily: Uluwatu is one of the best areas on the island to adventure around on a moto! You can rent one for as little as $4 per day, the roads never seem too busy, and it’s just a great feeling!  
• Enjoy a meal at Cashew Tree: This will always be one of my favorite restaurants in all of Bali! They’ve got deliciously healthy smoothies, a large menu, and affordable prices. It’s a backpacker favorite as well, located nearby Bingin’ Beach.  

Check out my article about the best things to do in Uluwatu for more information. All I know is that it’s simply a breathtaking area of Bali, and it might just be hard to leave.

BALI ITINERARY DAY 3: NUSA ISLANDS DAY-TRIPPING

Located just a short 20-30 minute speedboat ride off the coast of Bali are three idyllic islands: Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, and Nusa Penida.

They are all absolutely gorgeous and have unbelievable beaches, landscapes, and some of the best snorkeling or scuba-diving in the country. I’ll talk about this at the bottom of this article, but a substitution would be spending several days on one of these islands if you care a lot about these water activities.

I think it’s a really fun and fantastic day trip since it’s just off the coast, and you can see a lot and still make it back to Uluwatu for sunset cocktails — that is if you have the energy!

There are tons of options, but here are a few of the best sellers. It really just depends if you’re more into beaches, viewpoints, swimming, or snorkeling.

BEST OF NUSA PENIDA PRIVATE FULL-DAY TOUR

Review: “Climb aboard a fast boat at Sanur Beach and cross the sea to Toyapakeh on the small island of Nusa Penida. Meet your local host on arrival and begin your private day tour. Visit the famous Kelingking Beach for the chance to take photos of the most beautiful spot on the island. Marvel at the cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean, and then continue to Pasih Uug (Broken Beach) and the natural pool of Angel’s Billabong. Experience the peace and quiet of one of the less visited spots on Nusa Penida before going to the popular beach at Crystal Bay, known for its great diving and snorkeling opportunities.”  

Price:   $33

Read Reviews & Check the Availability

FROM BALI: SNORKELING DAY TRIP TO NUSA LEMBONGAN

Review: “Discover an island paradise off the south coast of Bali and snorkel at 3 different spots around the islands of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida in the Indian Ocean. Marvel at the wide variety of tropical fish and live coral flora and fauna.”

Price:   $68

FULL-DAY SNORKELING TRIP TO NUSA PENIDA & MANTA POINT

Review: “Nusa Penida is a perfect spot for snorkeling and exploring marine life as you’ll see on this full-day trip. Spot the ocean sunfish, or mola mola and the great manta rays on some of the most amazing drift dives in Indonesia. Board the boat at Sanur Beach for the ride to Nusa Penida and your first snorkeling session of the day at Manta Point. Marvel at the majestic manta rays, which grow up to 6 meters in length. Take some time to enjoy a swim or to relax on the boat, before your second snorkeling session. Afterwards, savor a delicious lunch on the boat.”   

Price:  $132

Check out this epic YouTube Video about Nusa Penida for some travel inspiration!

BALI ITINERARY DAY 4: CANGGU CHILLIN & BAR HOPPING

In only a few short years, Canggu has quickly become popular and overthrown Seminyak as “the place to be”  in Bali. It’s changed drastically since my first visit in 2015. Since then, it has   become a digital nomad hotspot loaded with trendy cafes, co-working spaces, yoga studios, beach clubs, funky bars, surf camps, and thousands of people enjoying the Canggu lifestyle!   

I was fortunate to live in Canggu for a couple of months this year, and it really is a must-visit in Bali. Here’s what you should add to your Bali itinerary for 4 days.

CANGGU HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Eat at as many different cafes as possible: Canggu is easily one of the top “foodie hotspots” I’ve ever visited in my entire life. There are literally dozens of places you should try! A couple of my personal favorites are Milk & Madu, The Shady Shack, Motion Cafe, Peleton Supershop, Cinta Cafe, and Milu by Nook.
• Take a surfing lesson: If you’re new to the sport, Canggu can be an excellent place to learn the basics of surfing! While the waves can be a bit rough on some days, the surf camps are awesome in Canggu and will be a great way to spend a couple of hours. Take this tour  as an introduction to the sport.
• Watch the sunset every night on the beach: There are tons of different little local bars & restaurants along the beach, and they tend to put out bean bags and tables during the sunset. Grab a coconut and a beer, and watch the sky change colors to gorgeous orange and pink hues.
• Relax & swim at Alternative Beach Pool & Hostel: This venue is becoming super popular in Canggu. It’s got a perfect temperature pool, decent food options, and a nice sandy vibe hence the name.
• Spend a luxurious day at Finns Beach Club: If you’re not on the strictest budget, why not book a daybed at Finn’s for an easygoing day at a gorgeous venue?
• Stop by AMO Spa for one of their famous facials, relaxing massages, and an Epsom salt jacuzzi session: I’m sad I didn’t discover this place sooner because it ended up being one of my favorite spots in Canggu. The sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, and cold plunge circuit are an outstanding endorphin rush!
• Go Canggu nightlife bar hopping: There are plenty of places to visit whether you go for drinks at Old Man’s, cocktails at La Brisa, or find your way to the hidden bar in the supermarket along the  “Canggu shortcut.”  Other really awesome bars I enjoy are The Lawn (awesome pool included), Pretty Poison, and Deus Ex Machina! You can check out this article about the best bars in Canggu for more information on the nightlife!

Check out this epic YouTube video for some more Canggu Travel Information & Inspiration!

BALI ITINERARY DAY 5: SURF, EAT, REPEAT & TANAH LOT TEMPLE SUNSET

Spend another day exploring everything (mainly the cafes) that Canggu has to offer. Do some yoga, surf, hit a co-working space, cross-fit, join a beach clean up, and more!

For sunset, I’d recommend renting a moto and driving down the road (only 20-25 minutes) to the Tanah Lot Temple . It’s one of Bali’s most important landmarks, famed for its unique offshore setting and sunset backdrops. It’s an ancient Hindu shrine perched on top of an outcrop amidst constantly crashing waves.

There’s a small entrance fee of 60,000 IDR ($4 USD), and you can easily spend an hour or two walking around the coastline and enjoying the scenic views.  

BALI ITINERARY DAY 6: SEMINYAK SHOPPING, DAY CLUBS & NIGHTLIFE

Continuing on with this Bali trip planning, I’d recommend making the short drive from Canggu down to Seminyak for a day of shopping and beach clubs. Seminyak is one of the fancier and more developed regions on the island and is full of awesome things to do, places to eat, and fantastic souvenir shopping!  

Now, on this itinerary, I’ve only listed one day in Seminyak because the last time I visited, I felt it was starting to get a bit too overcrowded. Still, you could easily stay here for several days and explore everything this place offers.

SEMINYAK HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Souvenir shop til’ you drop: For me, I think the Seminyak, Legian, and Kuta area is the best for buying all your souvenirs in Bali. Just remember to haggle, or the locals will take you for a ride. Most prices in all the souvenir stalls are negotiable!
• Visit Potato Head Beach Club: I’ve visited the world-famous Potato Head several times, and it remains one of my favorite spots in Seminyak! It’s a gorgeous beachfront property, has tons of fancy daybeds and loungers, and the food is absolutely delicious! While Potato Head Beach Club is a bit costly (for Bali standards), it’s worth stopping by for a swim, a meal, and a beer. There’s a lively atmosphere, and it can be a great place to meet people – especially around the swim-up bar.
• Relax on bean bags and under umbrellas at La Plancha Seminyak: One of the most colorful bars & restaurants on the beach you’ll ever see. During sunset, they’ve got a fun DJ spinning, decent prices, and an overall fantastic vibe you’re guaranteed to love!
• Pool party at Mrs. Sippy: This is the largest saltwater pool and one of the best pool party hotspots in Bali! Sippy regularly has international DJs come to perform (I saw Pete Tong there earlier this year), and you’ll love watching people jump from the high platform all day long.
• Grab a cup of coffee at Revolver: If you’re a coffee snob, you have to try a cup from Revolver, known to be the best coffee in Seminyak!
• Party it up at the Legendary Nightlife: Kuta & Seminyak are two areas that are quite popular for their bar and nightclub scene. Here are a few of my favorite spots: Motel Mexicola, SkyGarden, Ku De Ta, Cocoon, Woobar, and JENJA.

SEMINYAK TOURS

Seminyak balinese cooking class & market tour.

Review:   “Learn how to cook authentic Balinese dishes with your friendly and experienced local chefs in Seminyak. Join this fun cooking course and bring back some Balinese recipes and newly acquired skills from this 4.5-hour cooking class.”   

Price:   $35.00

Read Reviews & Check the Availability  

BALI ITINERARY DAY 7: UBUD CAFES, MONKEYS, TEMPLES, AND YOGA

Now that you’ve gotten plenty of time to explore Bali’s popular beach areas, the time has come to make the hour’s drive up to the cultural and spiritual capital of Bali.

Many people plan a trip to Bali and immediately add Ubud to their itinerary. That’s because there is truly something magical in the air at Ubud. The minute you step foot in this town, you will slowly start to feel your stress & worries float away.

Ubud is also a fantastic jumping-off point for adventuring around the rest of the island.

UBUD HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

For your first day in Ubud, though, here’s what I would suggest crossing off your bucket list!

• Try out trendy cafes, vegan eats & smoothie bowls: Ubud is another incredible destination for food, and you could easily spend 3 days here eating at as many places as possible and still only scratch the surface. A few of my favorites you MUST TRY are ZEST, Sayuri Healing Food, Alchemy, KAFE, and Clear Cafe.
• Get up close and personal with monkeys: Well, strolling through the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is the best place to do it. Just be careful. The monkeys at this magical sanctuary  aren’t always as friendly as you’d hope! It’s centrally located in town, super cheap, and a super fun way to spend an hour.
• Legends of the Hidden Temples: Rent a moto, and explore as many of the beautiful temples in the Ubud area as possible. There are literally dozens, and all of them are gorgeous. A few top picks are Pura Tirta Empul, Pura Taman Saraswati, and Goa Gajah!
• Do some Y-O-G-A: There are some fantastic yoga studios in Ubud, and even if it’s not your thing, I’d recommend trying it out. My first experience with Bikram yoga was in Ubud, and it was a sweaty experience I’ll never forget.  
• Ubud Art Market and beyond: Strolling around downtown Ubud has some really fantastic shopping opportunities. You can find some awesome stuff from the traditional art market, souvenir stalls, and trendy fashion stalls here.

 UBUD TOURS

Ubud balinese cooking class at an organic farm.

Review: “Discover the culinary secrets of Bali at an exclusive cooking class at an organic farm in the lush tropics surrounding Ubud. Visit a local market and experience everyday life, before preparing a regular or vegetarian meal with the help of a chef.”  

BALI ITINERARY DAY 8: TEGALALANG RICE TERRACES, BALI SWING & CAMPUHAN RIDGE WALK

Ubud still has so many places to teach you about Balinese culture and beauty, like the Tegalalang Rice Terraces and the famous swings that almost every influencer has taken pictures at while visiting Bali. These are all ideal for your second day here.

HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Visit the rice terraces: Located just a quick twenty-minute scooter ride from downtown Ubud is the Instagram-famous and undeniably gorgeous Tegalalang Rice Terraces . It’s one of the most stunning tourist destinations in Bali and will certainly impress you with its sprawling views of lush green valleys, rice paddies, and towering palm trees! It’s completely free to walk through, but I would bring money for any Bali swings you want to do, coconuts, cold drinks, meals, etc.

• Catch the rice terrace sunrises: If you’re willing to wake up early, watching the sunrise & witnessing the light rays shine through the palm trees is a sight you must see to believe! It’ll be one of the most peaceful ways to start your day, and then you can spend the next 3-4 hours exploring the area. If you head there around mid-day, though, expect big crowds and intense humidity (which can make for some sweaty explorations)!

When you’re done hiking around the rice terraces, I’d recommend picking one of the restaurants up at the top for a bite to eat! It’s a pretty epic place to enjoy a refreshing smoothie bowl & fresh coconut water!

• Terrace River Pool Swing: A few minutes from the main rice terraces is this super fun zip-lining and Bali Swing mini-amusement park called Terrace River Pool Swing . It’s also free to walk through and take photos, but you’ll have to pay if you want to do any of the activities. My friend Vanessa and I spent a good hour here and loved it!  

• Campuhan Ridge Walk: The Campuhan Ridge Walk is the best-known Ubud hiking trail and is a fantastic place to stroll during the sunset (or any time of the day, really). The sparse crowds and the aesthetically rich vistas will remind you why people worldwide come to Bali. The trail starts at the historical origin of Ubud, the confluence (or Campuhan) of the Wos Rivers. You’ll get some epic hilltop views as you stroll along the nice paved trail and will be surrounded by Ubud rice fields and a deep gorge with a river rushing through it. It’s only about 1.5 kilometers long, so it is popular as a place to work up a sweat. If you’re not too exhausted after exploring the rice terraces, I would say this is an absolute must-do in Ubud!  

Check out this video for a bit of travel inspiration and what to expect!

BALI ITINERARY DAY 9: MT. BATUR SUNRISE HIKE & SPA RELAXATION RECOVERY

Admire the panoramic view of the three volcanoes of Mt. Agung, Mt. Abang, and Mt. Rinjani in Lombok in the majestic sunrise over the clouds from the crater of Mt. Batur!

For adventure travelers, I’d highly recommend waking up super early and beginning the trek to the top of Mt. Batur to witness one of the most magnificent sunrises you will ever see!  

Fair warning, though, this hike is known to be a bit intense and is not for the faint-hearted. Unfortunately, this is one of the few main activities I haven’t gotten the chance to do myself yet, but everyone speaks so highly of it!

There are a few different tours to choose from, and it just depends on what piques your interest the most! Read through some of their itineraries, and browse through all their company reviews.  

• Mount Batur Sunrise Trek with Breakfast
• Mount Batur Sunrise Trek with Hidden Waterfall
• Mount Batur Sunrise Trek & Hot Springs

“Head up the mountain along a less-crowded hiking trail that follows the volcano’s eastern slope. During the ascent, you’ll trek along a 3-kilometer-long trail. The trail is of moderate difficulty, and passes through lush tropical jungles. On reaching the top you’ll enjoy breakfast cooked by steam from the volcano. Sip hot tea or coffee at leisure while watching the magical sunrise. Afterwards, your trek continues to the main crater rim of the volcano, at 1,717 meters above sea level. Take a different route down the mountain, starting from the southwestern crater rim. The journey ends with a chance to soak in the crystal-clear waters of a hot spring to soothe away any aches and pains you may have.”  

UBUD SPA RECOVERY HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

After an early morning wake-up and a long day of climbing up a volcano, you will be ready for a little bit of #self-care and pampering! Ubud was the first time I booked a full-day spa package, and the overall experience blew me away.

I only paid $120 USD, but I received a body scrub, 60-minute massage, herbal bath, healthy lunch, manicure, and pedicure!! It was called DIVINE PAMPERING!!

• Relax at Tasku Spa: Countless different spas in Ubud would be perfect, but I went to Taksu Spa | Ubud’s Premiere Wellness Center  for my spa treatment. They didn’t pay me to say this or anything. I just loved my experience and would highly recommend it to fellow travelers! If you’re looking for something a bit cheaper, though, you can visit any of the smaller massage parlors spread around the town!

BALI ITINERARY DAY 10: HANDARA GATE, LAKE BATAN & ULUN DANU BERATAN TEMPLE & SEKUMPUL WATERFALL

Next up on this ultimate Bali itinerary is to book a day trip, hire a private driver, or rent some scooters and explore north Bali! There’s quite a lot to see up there, and it will definitely be a pretty solid day of adventures.  

NORTH BALI HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Handara Gate : Make a quick stop over at this iconic “Bali Gate,” which is actually the entrance to a golf course. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and is a breathtaking view of green scenery and the gigantic exotic traditional Balinese gate as your backdrop.

• Lake Beratan: This is where you’ll visit the majestic Ulun Danu Beratan Temple sitting on a small island on the lake, just as you’ve seen in the postcards and Instagram shots of Bali. This lakeside temple was constructed in honor of Dewi Danu, the lake goddess, formed by a volcanic eruption 30,000 years ago.

• Sekumpul Waterfall: Quite commonly called the best waterfall in Bali. It’s just a 40-minute drive from the lake and is the perfect place to spend a few hours! Just don’t forget your GoPro!  
• Banyumala Twin Waterfall: “This stunningly beautiful waterfall is perfect for a quiet and peaceful afternoon in the arms of Mother Nature. The natural pool is inviting with its translucent turquoise waters. Swim in tranquility, listen to the thunderous roar of cascading waters, and take in the sights of the vibrant greenery. Although no picture will ever do this natural wonder justice, that shouldn’t stop you from that perfect Instagram shot!”
• Rent a scooter: If you’re confident on a scooter, I would 100% recommend you explore by yourself. The roads are all really scenic, and I loved my experience just whippin’ around the North. It’s higher elevation, which means it’s less hot, and the way the clouds sit upon the hills is majestic!  

NORTH OF BALI TOURS

Northern charm: lake bratan, handara gate, waterfall & swing.

This tour company offers a trip that goes to most of these places and would be a great way to see everything with a professional guide. The price includes all entrance fees (which can actually add up) and has excellent reviews!  

HIRE A CAR WITH A PRIVATE DRIVER FOR 10 HOURS

I remember when I first visited Bali and discovered you could hire a car with a driver to take you anywhere you wanted to go for less than $50! It’s such a fantastic deal, especially if you’re traveling with a significant other or a group of friends!  

Price:   $45.00

BALI ITINERARY DAYS 11-14: EXPERIENCE PARADISE ON THE GILI ISLANDS

Now, if you’ve got more than 10 days in Bali, this is where I’d suggest sailing over to the Gili Islands — one of my favorite destinations in Indonesia! I actually spent a few months living on Gili Trawangan working at a party hostel back in 2015, and it was one of the highlights of my time backpacking through Southeast Asia.

A trip to the Gili Islands is a trip to paradise! The color of the water here will honestly leave you speechless, and I’m just obsessed with the fact that pretty much anytime you go snorkeling/ scuba-diving out there, you’ll be swimming with turtles. There is top-notch nightlife, incredible restaurants, a relaxed atmosphere, gorgeous villas, and the most jaw-dropping sunsets every night!!

Here is a quick breakdown of every island:

• Gili Trawangan = Party Island
• Gili Meno = Honeymoon Island
• Gili Air = Best of Both Worlds / Family Friendly

To get to the Gili Islands, you’ll need to talk to any travel agent in Ubud to organize the hotel pick-up and transfer schedule. You can pick various times, but I’d recommend doing the earliest one possible. It’s a couple hours’ drive to the port and then another couple of hours to the islands!

GILI ISLANDS HIGHLIGHTS & THINGS TO DO

• Go snorkeling or scuba-diving every day: The water is crystal clear here, and you can see some pretty awesome marine life just off the shores of each of the three islands! For scuba divers, make sure you chat with some of the dive centers to discuss the best dive sites!
• Watch the sunset every night: Grab a cocktail or a coconut at one of the many beach bars, and watch while the sky dips beneath the horizon in the future and lights up the sky in pretty much every color of the rainbow.
• Party it up: Gili Trawangan is easily one of the best party islands in Southeast Asia , and you can find yourself bar hopping every night if you want to.
• Bike ride around the island: There are no cars on the Gili’s, so I’d recommend renting a bike for at least one day and riding all the way around the island!  
• Enjoy a psychedelic experience: You may or may not be interested in this, but you can buy magic mushrooms in Indonesia quite easily! They’re readily available at many beach bars and shops, and they’re a super fun way to spend a few hours!    

ARRIVAL AT BALI DENPASAR AIRPORT

Once you’ve landed in Bali, successfully made it through immigration and customs, and collected your bags – you’ll need to get your transportation sorted to your first hotel. I must warn you that Bali’s worst part is the Ngurah Rai International Airport !  

You will be harassed by countless people asking you for a taxi, which can be overwhelming after a long-haul flight. That’s why I’d strongly suggest booking a Bali Airport Private Transfer beforehand!   

There are tons of different Bali transfer companies, and most hotels will offer this service (but charge way too much), but I really love this one through Get Your Guide – Bali Airport Private Transfer ! I’ve personally used this service before, and for only $18, it’s a pretty fantastic deal!

It’s really nice to have this all handled before arriving at the airport because it makes for a stress-free arrival! Most Bali car drivers are super friendly and are happy to chat about their favorite things on the island, food, etc.

BEST ITINERARY FOR BALI SUBSTITUTIONS

Alright, so I know I just went over so much information, but now I’m offering up a few other possible Bali itinerary ideas! The truth is that every traveler is a bit different, and there is no right way to spend 10 days or two weeks exploring Bali!  

• Spend more time on the Nusa Islands: With fantastic marine biodiversity, rugged landscapes, and pristine beaches – taking the ferry over to the Nusa Islands and spending 3-4 days over here would be a great option.
• Book a few nights at Mt. Kintamani instead of Ubud: This is a really gorgeous part of Bali, and you wouldn’t believe some of the gorgeous resorts up there. It’ll also make the sunrise hike a lot easier, and you could even attempt to do it on your own to save money!

• Relax & slow down in Sanur: This sleepy coastal town was one of the very first places I visited in Bali, and I honestly loved it. While it may not have the gorgeous coastlines like in Uluwatu or the trendy cafes in Canggu, it’s definitely a comfortable spot with some lively resorts, beautiful white sand beaches, and a nice relaxing vibe. There’s great souvenir shopping, an awesome night market, and overall a solid place to spend a few days!  

BALI ITINERARY TRAVEL TIPS

Bring an international driver’s license.

Fair warning – there’s a good chance that you will get pulled over while driving around Bali! The local cops in Bali are, well… they can be rather CORRUPT. Not all of them, but there’s a huge issue with cops extorting cash from tourists!  

I’ve been harassed almost every time I drive around Bali (for longer-distance trips), but if you have the proper paperwork and an International Driver’s License , you shouldn’t have any problems. Most of the time, they are just security checkpoints on major roads.

If you do get pulled over and they are giving you a difficult time… just try and BRIBE THEM. Hand them over a 50,000 IDR bill, and then show them an empty wall! Simply drive off, and see if that works.

BE CAREFUL WITH THE MONEY EXCHANGE PLACES

They are notorious on the island for scamming tourists, so my recommendation would be to just use the ATMs to get your money. Also, make sure you bring a credit card with no international withdrawal fees! Most tour agencies, restaurants, and bars accept credit cards these days!

DON’T TRUST THE MONKEYS

If this is your first time traveling through Southeast Asia, you might not understand how evil monkeys can actually be! Don’t have any loose jewelry around them, don’t smile at them, don’t look at them directly in the eyes, etc. Just be super cautious with them!  

Check out these YouTube videos below for First Time Travelers to Bali!

HOW TO GET AROUND IN BALI

Use a rideshare app.

There are three main Rideshare apps in Bali: UBER, GOJEK, and GRAB! Download all three of these before landing, and you’ll always be able to find a ride. I’ve never had any issues using any of these platforms, and it is definitely the easiest way to get around. You can even call a MOTO GoJek, and they’ll offer you a helmet, and you sit behind them!  

RENT A SCOOTER

Scooters are an extremely popular way for travelers in Bali to explore the island. Especially around Canggu, Uluwatu, and Ubud – it makes a huge difference if you have your own moto !  

HIRE A PRIVATE DRIVER

For $40-$60 per day, you can Hire a Private Driver (depending on how long you hire for)! For example, if you’re booking a taxi from Uluwatu to Canggu, why not just hire the driver for the entire day, and go explore as much as possible? It really just depends on how you want to spend your days!  

INTERESTED IN SCUBA DIVING?

If you’ve found yourself with some more time to gallivant around Indonesia, I’d highly recommend booking a flight from Bali to Labuan Bajo. So you can visit the wondrous Komodo National Park  and experience some of the world’s most unbelievable marine biodiversity and scuba-diving.  

I’ve now visited Komodo two different times, and it is a remarkable destination that deserves a place on every traveler’s bucket list! Komodo National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve!  

The color and clarity of the water are stunning, the landscape is completely gorgeous, and getting up close and personal with Komodo Dragons is an experience you’ll never forget. But the real magic begins when you strap on your fins and snorkel mask and start exploring the underwater scenery!

It really is the best snorkeling and scuba-diving I’ve witnessed in my life! It’s also one of the best places to do a liveaboard in Southeast Asia, as the prices are relatively affordable (compared to other popular scuba destinations).  

Check out these Komodo National Park liveaboards to view dates, prices, and availability to see if you can squeeze one into your Bali itinerary!

• Adelaar Liveaboard (Bali – Komodo)
• Moana Liveaboard
• Indo Aggressor (Komodo National Park)

PURCHASE THE BALI LONELY PLANET & POCKETBOOK

No matter how long your Bali vacation is, I’d also recommend picking up one of the Bali Lonely Planet Travel Guide Books ! They are honestly loaded with insider tips, restaurant recommendations, and fun day ideas! I know I’ve gone into a  lot of detail in this post (so maybe you should bookmark this for your trip), but these are always handy!  

PLANNING A TRIP TO BALI, INDONESIA & SOUTHEAST ASIA?

I’ve spent a lot of time backpacking around this marvelous region of the world, and I’ve written a rather large amount to help you figure out your ideal upcoming vacation! Look through some of my favorite articles below, and feel free to contact me if you have any questions about my Bali itinerary travel guide!

Further Reading:

• The Ultimate Ubud Itinerary | 3 Days In Bali’s Hidden Paradise
• Top 12 Music Festivals In Bali To Experience This Year
• The Ultimate Backpackers Guide to Gili Trawangan, Indonesia
• 17 Amazing Things To Do On Gili Trawangan
• The 7 Best Places to Eat on Gili Trawangan
• Komodo Island Trip Review | Sailing from Lombok to Flores
• The 5 Best Places to Trip on Magic Mushrooms in Southeast Asia
• The 15 Best Places to Party in Southeast Asia
• 20 Best Beaches In Malaysia | Beach Resorts & Islands
• The 20 Best Beaches In Vietnam | Epic Islands, Beach Resorts + Hotels
• The 20 Best Beaches in Sri Lanka
• Thailand Itinerary | 10 Days In The Land Of Smiles

THANKS FOR READING MY BALI ITINERARY TRAVEL GUIDE!!

Share this bali trip planner with your squad.

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Looking for sample itinerary on your trip to Bali? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ox35Xqg55OI&t=755s

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Southeast Asia

The best of Bali: top ways to find your own piece of paradise

Oct 29, 2023 • 9 min read

Surfing the "pipeline" at Padang Padang is just one way to get the Bali feeling © Wonderful Nature / Shutterstock

With its unique Hindu culture, dramatic tropical landscapes and long tradition of delightful hospitality, Bali is one of the most exciting places for activities on the planet.

Whether you like to surf, practice yoga, trek on volcanoes, dive pristine reefs or go white-water rafting, Bali offers all sorts of dynamic and fascinating experiences. On the “island of the gods,” you’ll find an opportunity for relaxation and pampering, too – it's not all about adventure and adrenaline.

To get you started, here's our pick of the best things to do on a trip to Bali.

Grab a surfboard and catch the Bali pipeline

Bali is celebrated as one of the top spots for surfing on the planet. While the island is legendary for world-class waves such as Uluwatu, Padang Padang (“the Balinese Pipeline”) and the aptly named Impossibles, countless other spots are perfect for intermediate surfers or beginners.

Canggu and Kuta Beach are the best hubs on the island for novice surfers. Canggu has plenty of board rental stands and surf schools offering lessons; check out Echo Beach for relatively mellow waves where you can find your feet. More board rental places and surf schools can be found along Kuta Beach, and the waves here are – under normal circumstances – even more chilled for learning.

However, a lot of beginners find out the hard way that high tide at Kuta brings steep, heavy shore-breakers that are often challenging even for experienced surfers. Aim to have your lessons close to low tide and save the tougher waves for later in your surfing career.

If you'd rather escape the crowds, Medewi in West Bali is one of Bali’s least-known waves. The point itself is covered in boulders, so it’s best for intermediate or experienced surfers, but you'll find 10km (6.2mi) of sandy-bottom beach breaks on either side of Medewi that rarely see another surfer.

Raft the white waters of the Ayung Valley

Jungle rivers cascade down from the volcanic highlands in the center of Bali, carving great ravines that are one of the most unexpected features of Bali’s geography. The southern hills are quite densely populated with these rivers, and rafting is often the best way to experience still-unspoiled jungle canyons.

Bali’s rivers may not offer the world’s most challenging rapids, but what you lose in adrenaline, you gain in the sheer pleasure of seeing the Ubud area from a totally unexpected angle. It’s hard to believe that such pristine forest valleys can exist just a stone’s throw from bustling Ubud town.

Mason Adventures is one of the most reputable rafting companies and runs the longest rafting trips along the Ayung Valley, clocking in at 12km (7.5mi). You can combine an Ayung Valley rafting trip with a 30km (18.5mi) mountain bike tour that runs almost entirely downhill.

Go on “safari” in Bali’s wild west

It's different in West Bali. Away from the crowds, you can watch in awe as critically endangered Bali starlings flit overhead while wild ebony leaf monkeys loop through the canopy and giant monitor lizards flick their tongues to taste the air. Herds of Menjangan deer even come right up to the beach bungalows – they’re famous for coming to cool their heels in the shallows.  

You can only visit West Bali National Park with a guide, but even if you’re traveling independently outside the reserve, it’s impossible to shake the impression that West Bali has something fundamentally “wild” about it. To catch the mood, try trekking in the surprisingly arid hills of the cactus country or along the vineyard-filled north coast, or watch macaques run free at the many temples in the area.

Just east of the national park boundary, The Menjangan is the most unexpectedly wild resort on the entire island. Even if you’re not staying here, you can rent cycles and book guided walks and horse-riding and birdwatching tours.

Align your chakras and live the yogi dream

Yoga has been practiced on the Hindu island of Bali for over 1000 years, but the boom years for commercial yoga began in the early years of this century. Ubud in particular has made a name for itself as Southeast Asia's yoga capital.

Yoga Barn , which began with one humble yoga shall (practice space) in 2007, has grown to become a fixture on the Ubud scene, with seven studios running a whopping 130 classes a week. There’s a restaurant, a cafe, a yoga store and even accommodations for students who come here for teacher training or specialist courses.

More low-key, offering only 60 classes a week, Radiantly Alive has become a firm favorite with local yogis in the know. It’s located on a quiet alleyway in the old town and is popular with students who enjoy a more intimate, communal atmosphere. Radiantly Alive also has a yoga studio in Canggu.

Dive Bali’s tropical waters surrounded by splendor

Lying at the center of the Coral Triangle, Indonesia boasts some of the richest marine habitats on the planet, and Bali has its share of top diving and snorkeling spots. The entire north coast, which is spared the waves of the south, is a watery wonderland for diving and snorkeling aficionados. The island of Nusa Lembongan is a good place to start; Bali Hai runs diving day trips to “Manta Alley” and other local sites, as well as full PADI certification courses.

Menjangan Island off Bali’s northwest tip also offers world-class diving without the crowds. You'll see the entire spectrum of reef fish alongside turtles, reef sharks and, if you’re lucky, dolphins and whale sharks. The Menjangan rents kayaks and can arrange guided diving and snorkeling trips to the island.

Chill out at a private Bali beach club

Bali is famed for its beaches, and the island has a surprising number of wild, often deserted strands alongside busy “town beaches” such as Kuta, Seminyak and Canggu. If you tire of the crowded sand, a day at a private beach club can be an unforgettable experience.

Potato Head in Seminyak has become a Balinese icon. Much more than just a beach club, this lively spot has two infinity pools, a music venue and several landmark restaurants, including Ijen, Bali’s first zero-waste restaurant. Along the beach from Potato Head, Mrs Sippy boasts Bali’s biggest saltwater pool and brands itself as a Mediterranean-inspired oasis.

Over at Canggu, Finns Beach Club has become a Bali institution, with five bars (including two sunken pool bars), three restaurants and a live music space, all spread across a beautifully designed property between two pools and the ocean.

If you’re in Sanur, check out Byrdhouse Beach Club , a vibrant extension to the lovely Segara Village Hotel , run by the same local family since the 1950s. Byrdhouse features a 25m-long infinity pool, spacious beachfront lawns, quality dining spaces and what is probably the best Jacuzzi cocktail bar you’ll ever find.

Pamper yourself in a holistic Bali spa

Whether you choose to bliss out with an après-surf massage on the beach or have a marathon all-day pampering session in a five-star spa, Bali takes vacation relaxation to the next level. Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan and Fivelements Retreat near Ubud are open to non-guests and rank among the best spa and wellness retreats on the planet.

The Sacred River Spa at the Four Seasons has it all: spa treatments, traditional healers and chakra ceremonies in spellbinding surroundings overlooking the Ayung Valley. Fivelements specializes in holistic treatments inspired by Balinese traditions, with a focus on plant-based cuisine, sacred arts and romantic day experiences that are perfect for couples. Both spots also offer yoga and other wellness packages.

Glo Spa Bali is also highly recommended for its massages and beauty treatments, which attract plenty of repeat visitors. If you’re traveling on a budget, head to one of the Yes Spa Bali establishments in Kuta or Legian, where you can enjoy excellent traditional Balinese massages for less than US$8.

Walk with pink buffaloes on a paddy field tour

Water buffalo have become increasingly rare in Bali since mechanized farm tools took the place of plows, but you can still spot a few of Bali's rare pink buffalo hard at work in the fields, particularly in West Bali. Join a half-day guided paddy walk with pink buffaloes near Pekutatan for fascinating insights into the role that these magnificent creatures play in the rice-growing cycle, and the complex rituals behind rice farming on the island.

Climb up Batur volcano at sunrise

The 1717m (5633ft) summit of the Batur volcano is perhaps the best place to take in the sunrise on an island that Indian statesman Jawaharlal Nehru called the “morning of the world.” From the crater rim, the view takes in Mt. Agung – the island’s highest peak and the spiritual abode of the gods in Balinese culture – and Mt. Rinjani on distant Lombok .

You’ll have to set your alarm incredibly early to witness the splendor. Most tours start with a hotel pickup between 1am and 2am so hikers can complete the 3.5km (2.2mi) trek and be up at the summit by sunrise.

Photograph Asia’s most colorful traditional fishing fleet

The fleet of selerek (traditional Balinese fishing boats) at Perancak inlet are one of the most astounding – and least known – sights on the entire island. Looking like day-glow Viking longboats with curiously decorated crow’s nests (many shaped like chariots) and longtail engines spiking out from their vibrantly colorful hulls, these boats will astound any visitor who takes the trouble to reach this unspoiled corner of West Bali.

Stroll across the emerald expanses of Jatiluwih Paddies

Lying just 15km (9.3mi) north of Ubud, the pretty rice terraces of Tegallalang are a prime tourist destination. But with each passing year, more development comes to Tegallalang, and at sunset especially, it’s hard to soak up the beauty of the valley with all the noise from honking tour buses.

For a better introduction to the great paddy landscapes that cover less-visited parts of Bali, head for the immense Jatiluwih terraces, around 40km (25 miles) northwest. This idyllic stretch of countryside is perfect for wandering alone, but consider hiring a local guide if you want to understand the intricacies of the 1000-year-old subak irrigation system , which is inscribed on Unesco’s cultural heritage list.

This article was first published August 2012 and updated October 2023

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19 Best Things to Do in Bali

By Travis Levius

There’s an unspoken rule in Bali: Where there are iconic ancient Hindu temples and tropical panoramas, a deluge of tourists is sure to follow. But don’t let this deter you from exploring the Indonesian island’s largess of cultural treasures—sites like the cliffside Uluwatu Temple and the sacred pools of Tirta Empul maintain their enrapturing qualities no matter the visitor count. If you need a primer on Bali’s essential sights (with tips to side-step the madding crowd) along with a few hidden and up-and-coming gems, you've come to the right place. Here is our list of the very best things to do in Bali.

Click the link to read our complete Bali guide .

Nyang Nyang Beach Arrow

In Bali, the words “south” and “secluded” are rarely uttered in the same sentence, but Nyang Nyang Beach, in Uluwatu, indeed fills the bill. White sands, greenery-lined cliffs, and the astonishing absence of crowds await—if you're dedicated enough to find it. Who knows, you might get lucky and have the coast all to yourself. If you’ve lamented how overrun Bali’s main beaches have become nowadays, Nyang Nyang is the respite you’ve been looking for.

Gunung Kawi Temple Arrow

Gunung Kawi is an 11th-century complex of courtyards and cliff-carved shrines along the Pakerisan River, near Ubud . Theories and myths surround the ancient Hindu site—legend has it that a ferocious warrior named Kebo Iwa carved the intricate reliefs with his fingernails, for instance—which adds to its allure. Getting down to this jungle-enshrouded marvel will require some serious walking (there are some 300 steps), but the reward—especially in the quieter morning hours—is immense.

Sukawati Art Market Arrow

Sukawati Art Market is a cheaper and quieter alternative to nearby Ubud Market and other popular locales in southern Bali. There is an impressive array of handcrafted artworks for sale, from framed paintings of local farm life to large wooden sculptures of Hindu deities. Without the intimidating crowds, it’s an ideal place to flex your bargaining skills on vibrant patterned dresses and accessories, home goods, and tote bags for all tastes.

Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall Arrow

Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall, a recently opened Northern Bali attraction, is a little hard to get to. You'll need to drive at least 90 minutes from Ubud and take a winding, 20-minute hike through a banana plantation. But once you've completed the journey, you'll be rewarded handsomely with a lush forest hiding a quartet of grand waterfalls that are somehow not overrun by crowds. The main waterfall is the most spectacular—a verdant rock amphitheater with misty streams cascading down to a shallow pool.

Laura Kiniry

Stacey Lastoe

Jemima Sissons

Mount Batur Arrow

On an island full of natural beauty, Mount Batur (or “Gunung Batur”) and its serene surroundings might be the most dramatic destination of all. The 5,600-foot volcanic marvel contains Bali’s largest crater lake—a splendid cycling site and slopes ripe for hiking with picturesque villages along the way. The sunrise, as seen from the peak, is spectacular. Not for the faint of heart—or anyone who loathes early-morning wake-up calls—the ascent takes around two hours. But once you’ve reached the top, you might witness one of the most majestic mist-sheathed vistas you’ve ever seen.

Pura Lempuyang Luhur Arrow

Located far from the tourist hubbub of Ubud , Lempuyang Temple is a sacred seven-temple complex in eastern Bali best known for the Gateway to Heaven that perfectly frames the formidable Mount Agung, the island’s tallest peak. This is one of the most majestic sights in Bali—come for sunrise for the best, least crowdede results—and it’s also a significant Hindu temple. Entrance requires a donation, a sarong (also available on loan), and a 40,000 rupiah ($3) round-trip jeep shuttle up the steep mountainside.

Tukad Cepung Waterfall Arrow

Tukad Cepung, located in East Bali, is one of the island’s most photogenic falls, a small site leaving a major impression on travelers willing to scale the numerous steps and crossings to see it. The trump card here is drawcard is the natural light show which occurs in the earlier portion of the day. Arrive mid- to late morning for less crowded encounters, as snap-happy tourists start to flood the area by noon.

Ubud Monkey Forest Arrow

This tourist magnet might look like an open-air zoo attraction, but Ubud Monkey Forest is actually a holy site with a 1000-plus band of long-tailed Balinese macaques in their natural habitat. As cantankerous as some of the monkeys can be—dangling jewelry, bags, and conspicuous food will invite aggressive sticky fingers—the primates are considered sacred by Balinese Hindus who come to pray in the complex's three ancient temples.

Beji Guwang Hidden Canyon Arrow

Beji Guwang Hidden Canyon, a Sukawati-based ravine and sacred Balinese site, feels hidden in plain sight. Beyond the ticketed entrance is a series of mid-rise canyons lining the Oos River: prepare to climb, wade, swim, and scale your way through a rocky-tropical landscape not seen anywhere else on the island. Guides are necessary for safety and if possible, avoid rainy season as the currents can rise to dangerous levels—the canyon closes on days when it’s especially hazardous.

Menjangan Island Arrow

Making up part of the West Bali National Park, Menjangan Island is a tiny, less-trodden gem eight miles off the northwestern coast of Bali. Nicknamed “Deer Island” for the numerous Javan rusa deer ambling about, it’s uncrowded and largely uninhabited, and its fringing coral reefs make it among the best diving and snorkeling spots in Greater Bali. On land, wild but approachable deer sashay around the island and take chest-high dips in the beach water.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace Arrow

Tegalalang Rice Terrace, 20 minutes north of Ubud , is one of Bali’s most photogenic—and most-visited—destinations. The UNESCO World Heritage Site contains wide, undulating layers of rice paddies, kept alive by an ancient, sophisticated irrigation system and farmers who tend the terraces just as previous generations have done for millennia. You can explore this area freely. Take a short stroll or navigate its entire length; descend to some of the lower slopes (if the farmers don’t mind) for a different vantage point; or grab a seat at an open-air cafe when you need a break.

Uluwatu Temple Arrow

Uluwatu Temple, in Bali’s extreme south in Pecatu Village, is a crucial ancient site that has protected Hindu islanders from evil spirits since 900 AD. Its location is the main draw for tourists: some 230 feet up on a precipitous cliff’s edge, with the powerful waves of Uluwatu Beach lapping at its base. The sunsets here are among Bali’s most sensational. As an add-on, the daily kecak dance performances (about $7), with chants, costumed performances, and rings of fire, make the setting even more enchanting.

Tirta Empul Arrow

Tirta Empul (“Holy Spring”), an important sacred water temple for more than 1,000 years, contains a warren of shrines, gates, courtyards, and purification pools where Balinese Hindus “baptize” themselves underneath a succession of waterspouts. Equally popular with travelers, the temple commands a 15,000 rupiah ($1) entry fee and the wearing of a sarong.

Banyumala Twin Waterfalls Arrow

Tucked deep in the lush North Bali highlands are the Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, a mighty pair of 11-story-tall falls that cascade into a natural pool. The far-out location—at least two hours from the main drags of Ubud and Seminyak—and the steep hike keep the crowds delightfully low. This spot is perfect for anyone in search of Bali’s raw natural beauty—sans the typical tourist pack. Come early to maximize your time.

Thomas Beach Arrow

Thomas Beach, located in the south of Bali not far from Uluwatu, is a long, sprawling, white-sand beach flanked by willowy palm trees. It's managed to keep itself a well-guarded secret, drawing only the most curious travelers. The steps down to the beach put some visitors off—those who do manage them will find all the more space to spread out and sip on fresh coconut water from one of the vendors.

Tirta Gangga Arrow

Although Tirta Gangga ($2 entry), a former palace turned lavish water gardens, looks like it has existed for several centuries, it was actually conceived in 1946 by the royal Karangasem family. But its far-reaching east Bali location hasn’t stopped travelers from exploring its magical fountains, shrubs, sculptures, and flowers, or positioning themselves on the octagonal stepping stones and feeding the carp. There are also stone spring water pools and you can even swim in one of them.

Echo Beach Arrow

Echo Beach, Batu Bolong' s immediate northern neighbor, shares a lot of its attributes; among them, charcoal brown sand, stellar surf breaks, and bounteous eating and drinking options. But Echo feels less developed, and the waves are bigger and better for surf enthusiasts. Locals and an increasing number of tourists are congregating here more, but you’ll still have ample breathing space to lay, gaze, meander, or dip your toes in the water.

Sekumpul Waterfall Arrow

If exploring Bali’s paradiscal scenery is a priority, a visit to Sekumpul Waterfall is practically essential. It is considered by many to be the island’s finest waterfall destination. Like most North Bali waterfalls, accessing Sekumpul will require some sweat. It’ll take around an hour to walk the trails and make your way down the verdant ravine, but once you do you'll be rewarded with a vast expanse of idyllic tropical landscapes, and grand-scale falls, which appear to pour from the heavens.  

Pantai Pasir Putih Arrow

Wedged between two headlands, Pantai Pasir Putih (or White Sand Beach) is known as one of Bali’s best “secret” beaches—though the word has definitely gotten out. Those in the know travel here to east Bali to enjoy a more laid-back experience and access to perfectly blue waters—attributes hard to come by in the popular western beaches. The water is more than fine: the clarity is among the best seen around the island, and is calm enough for leisurely swims and snorkels.

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Travel Itineraries | Luxury Travel | Travel Tips

The Best of Bali – Indonesia in 9 Days | Travel Itinerary + Guide

Unveil the enchanting allure of Bali , where vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and culinary delights converge to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Our meticulously crafted 9-day Bali travel itinerary , covering some of the best places to visit in Bali and the best things to do in Bali , invites you to immerse yourself in the heart of this Indonesian gem, exploring diverse locales that range from the cultural haven of Ubud to the beachside bliss of Seminyak .

Indulge in exhilarating outdoor adventures, savour authentic Balinese and international cuisine, and bask in the island’s natural beauty. Whether you’re trekking at dawn to witness the sunrise from the majestic Mount Batur , relishing the laid-back island vibes of Gili Trawangan , or catching waves during a surfing lesson on Kuta Beach , Bali promises an extraordinary journey filled with unforgettable moments.

Join us as we guide you through the best sights, activities, and dining experiences that Bali has to offer, ensuring that your Bali getaway is not just a vacation but a remarkable odyssey. Discover why Bali is often referred to as the “ Island of the Gods ” as you explore its wonders day by day in this 9 Day Bali Trip Itinerary.

Welcome to your Bali adventure of a lifetime!

PS – Before you head to Bali and discover the beauty of the Top Sights and Attractions in Bali , during your 9 Day Bali Travel Itinerary , as  listed below, check out these 20+ Travel Hacks and Resources , that will help you plan better for a trip and ultimately elevate your Travel experience to a different level all together.

Day 1 – Arrival | Dive into the Culture in Ubud

Day 2 – ubud | rice terraces and countryside cycling, day 3 – ubud | sunrise atop mount batur, day 4 – gili trawangan | island paradise, day 5 – gili trawangan | island adventures, day 6 – seminyak | beachside bliss and partying, day 7 – nusa penida day trip | instagrammable locations, day 8 – kuta beach | surfing adventure, day 9 – departure | farewell to bali, top sights and attractions in bali, eat these local dishes in bali, where to stay in bali, things to buy in bali –  your bali shopping guide, ➡️ do indians need a visa for bali, ➡️ what’s the best time to visit bali, ➡️ what should i pack for bali, ➡️ what should i wear in bali, ➡️ is bali a safe destination for travellers, ➡️ what currency is used in bali, and where can i exchange money, ➡️ what are the must-visit attractions in bali, ➡️ is it safe to drink tap water in bali, ➡️ what’s the local language in bali, and do people speak english, ➡️ what are some of the most common terms and phrases in the local language in bali, ➡️ are there vegetarian and vegan food options in bali, ➡️ what are the best indian restaurants in bali, ➡️ what are the cultural norms and etiquette to follow in bali, ➡️ is bali an expensive destination for travellers, ➡️ can i use my credit card in bali, ➡️ how can i get around bali, ➡️ what should i do in case of a medical emergency in bali, 9 day bali travel itinerary – summarised, share this:, bali trip itinerary – 9 days in paradise.

• Morning: After landing at Bali Airport, make your way to Ubud. You can download GRAB or GoJek – the best travel planning mobile apps in South East Asia, and book your cheap taxi to Ubud from Bali Airport. After checking into your Ubud Hotel, you can Begin your Balinese adventure at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary . Wander among ancient temples and lush jungle while curious monkeys play around you.
• Afternoon: Dive into the heart of Ubud’s cultural scene by exploring its traditional markets, including the Ubud Art Market . Pick up unique handcrafted souvenirs and immerse yourself in the vibrant local atmosphere.
• Evening: As the sun sets, head to the Ubud Palace for a mesmerising traditional Balinese dance performance.

Traditional Balinese Dance Performance at Ubud Palace ☑️

• Morning: Explore the breathtaking Tegallalang Rice Terraces . Stand in awe of the emerald green stepped fields that are iconic to Bali, and tick off the famous Bali Swing photoshoot here. Then make your way to a Coffee Plantation and try over 12 varieties of Coffee and Tea, including the World’s Most Expensive Coffee – Luwak Coffee, also known as cat poo coffee. You’ll also learn the different steps followed in the production of Luwak Coffee. The next stop will be for Brunch in Kintamani Bali overlooking the majestic Mount Kintamani Volcano.
• Afternoon: Post brunch, its time to feel the wind in your hair as you embark on a Bali Countryside Cycling Tour . Pedal through charming villages, lush rice fields, bamboo forests and meet friendly locals along the way. You will even get the chance to visit the village of Penglipuran , which has been rated as one of the Cleanest Villages in the World.
• Evening: Relish some free time for relaxation or choose to explore more of Ubud, perhaps visiting an art gallery or enjoying a spa treatment.

Get clicked at the Insta Famous Bali Swings ☑️

Bali Countryside Cycling Tour with a visit to Penglipuran Village and Bamboo Forest ☑️

• Early Morning: Begin your day with an adrenaline-pumping adventure – the famous Mt Batur Sunrise Trek . Watch as the sun paints the sky with vibrant hues while enjoying breakfast with a view.
• Late Morning: Descend from the volcano hike and return to your Ubud hotel for a well-deserved rest.
• Afternoon: If you’re up for more adventure, explore nearby attractions like the natural hot springs at Toya Devasya or go on the Tirta Empul Temple Tour by GetYourGuide.
• Evening: Head to the popular club – Cretya Ubud for an epic Sundowner and reflect on your incredible sunrise experience while enjoying a tranquil evening in Ubud.

Witness a glorious Sunrise from Mt Batur ☑️

• Morning: Travel from Ubud to Gili Trawangan by speedboat, where paradise awaits.
• Afternoon: On arrival in Gili Trawangan , make your way to your Gili Trawangan hotel, such as Gili Beachfront Suites , by walking or by hopping onto a cidmo *horse – drawn carriage). Post check in, take your time to soak in the beauty of Gili Trawangan. You can choose to just relax by the beach, or even jump into the crystal clear waters for a quick swim.
• Evening: Experience the island’s laid-back charm, vibrant night life and diverse cuisine at the Gili Trawangan night market or at any of the numerous lively Gili T bars and restaurants.

PS – The island of Gili Trawangan, is known as the Party Island, so be prepared to let yourself loose, and just party the night away.

Chill by the beach in Gili Trawangan overlooking pristine blue waters ☑️

Try out local Indonesian delicacies ☑️

• Morning: After a leisure breakfast go Scuba Diving in Gili Trawangan or hop on to a boat for the popular 3 island Snorkelling Tour . Don’t forget to check out the famous BASK Nest – the Gili Meno Underwater Statues.
• Afternoon: Explore the island’s charms on a bicycle, Indulge in more beach time or head towards the west side of Gili Trawangan for the best sunset vibes.
• Evening: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife on Gili Trawangan. Dance under the stars and make new friends from around the world.

Scuba Diving in Gili Islands ☑️ | Finding Nemo ☑️

Sundowner in Gili Trawangan ☑️ | Shopping at Gili T Night Market ☑️

• Morning: Return to Bali by speedboat and head from Padang Bai to your Bali hotel in Seminyak/Kuta. Post check in, head to the beach and sink your toes into the golden sands and relax to the sound of the waves.
• Late Afternoon and Evening: Head to any of the popular and famous beach clubs of Bali such as Potato Head Beach Club. Soak into the vibes, enjoy the delectable dishes and craft fully concocted cocktails, as you enjoy a beautiful Bali Sunset. Post sundowner, the atmosphere of Potato Head Beach Club completely transforms, and becomes even more lively, making this one of the best things to do in Bali.

Sundowner at Potato Head Beach Club ☑️

• Morning: Get transferred from your hotel in Seminyak/Kuta to Sanur to embark on a thrilling ferry ride to Nusa Penida for the Nusa Penida Day Trip .
• Day Trip Highlights: Explore Angel’s Billabong – a natural infinity pool, Broken Beach – a surreal coastal formation, the mesmerising Kelingking Beach with its T-Rex shaped cliffs. and relax at Crystal Bay.
• Evening: Take the speedboat ferry back from Nusa Penida to Sanur, and Return to Seminyak/Kuta to enjoy a leisurely evening. Or you can head to the Seminyak Flea Market or the Kuta Beach Street to indulge in some shopping therapy.

Visit Kelingking Beach and other highlights of Nusa Penida ☑️

• Morning: Ride the waves with a surfing lesson at Kuta Beach . Bali is renowned for its surf culture, and Kuta is a fantastic place for beginners to catch their first waves.
• Afternoon and Evening: Use this time to just soak in the Bali vibes by the beach. Later in the afternoon head to another famous beach club of Bali – Finns Beach Club , for a couple of drinks and an epic Bali sunset. Party the night away on the last day of this Epic 9 Day Bali Travel Itinerary, whilst enjoying the sumptuous food, and artisanal cocktails.

Party at Finns Beach Club – The Best Beach Club in Bali ☑️ | Photo by shawnanggg on Unsplash

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, consider some last-minute shopping for souvenirs or relaxing at the beach.
• Afternoon: Check out of your Bali hotel and head to the Bali Airport for your departure from this enchanting island.

After 9 beautiful days in paradise, this 9 Day Bali Travel Itinerary comes to an end. And it’s time to bid adieu to Bali, and fly out with with bucketloads of memories.

Pin this Bali Travel Itinerary and Guide and SAVE it for your Epic 9 Day Bali Trip.

• Uluwatu Temple: Explore this clifftop temple with dramatic views and attend the Kecak Fire Dance at sunset.
• Tanah Lot Temple: If time permits, do visit this iconic sea temple during low tide and add it to your Bali Travel Itinerary.
• Ubud Art Market: Browse art, textiles, and handicrafts made by local artisans.
• Tegenungan Waterfall: Take a refreshing dip in the pools beneath this beautiful waterfall near Ubud.
• Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: Explore another stunning rice terrace area, known for its UNESCO World Heritage status.
• Besakih Temple: Known as the Mother Temple of Bali , it’s the largest and holiest temple on the island, and should definitely find a spot on your 9 day Bali Travel Itinerary.
• Ulun Danu Beratan Temple – The iconic temple on the shores of Lake Beratan.

The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple – One of the Most Iconic Attractions of Bali | Photo by Guillaume Marques on Unsplash

Bali offers a diverse and flavourful culinary scene that combines traditional Indonesian dishes with international influences. And while you can get delectable dishes from International Cuisines, easily in Bali, in this Bali Travel Guide and 9 Day Bali Travel Itinerary , we recommend you that you try the local Indonesian cuisine as well, and appreciate the local flavours and culture even more.

To make your life easy, here are some local dishes and delicacies you can relish in Bali, as experimenting local dishes is one of the Best Things to do in Bali :

1. Nasi Goreng (Balinese Fried Rice): Nasi Goreng is a popular Indonesian dish consisting of fried rice mixed with vegetables, egg, and a choice of chicken, shrimp, or seafood. It’s often garnished with prawn crackers and a fried egg. (Vegetarian option available.)

2. Mie Goreng (Balinese Fried Noodles): Mie Goreng is a delightful stir-fried noodle dish that includes vegetables, soy sauce, and your choice of protein. It’s a flavourful alternative to fried rice. (Vegetarian option available.)

3. Nasi Campur (Balinese Mixed Rice): Nasi Campur features a small serving of steamed rice accompanied by an array of side dishes, including vegetables, peanuts, eggs, and a protein of your choice. Presentation can vary widely. (Vegetarian option available.)

4. Ayam Betutu (Balinese Stuffed Chicken): Ayam Betutu is a Balinese specialty that involves stuffing chicken with a blend of traditional herbs and spices, wrapping it in banana leaves, and slow-cooking it to perfection.

5. Bebek Betutu (Balinese Stuffed Duck): Similar to Ayam Betutu, but duck is the star of this dish. It’s seasoned, marinated, and slow-cooked to create a rich and flavorful dish.

6. Nasi Padang (Sumatran Feast): While originally from Sumatra, you can find Nasi Padang restaurants in Bali. It’s a hearty meal consisting of rice served with a variety of small dishes, including meats, vegetables, and curries.

7. Sate (Balinese Skewers): Sate are skewered and grilled meats, often served with a delectable peanut sauce. Varieties include Sate Ayam (chicken), Sate Babi (pork), and Sate Lilit (minced seafood).

8. Lawar (Balinese Vegetable Mix): Lawar is a traditional Balinese dish featuring finely chopped vegetables, coconut, and minced meat or fish. It’s seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a burst of flavors.

9. Babi Guling (Balinese Roast Pig): Babi Guling is a Balinese-style roast pig, usually reserved for special occasions. The pig is marinated with turmeric and spices, resulting in a flavorful and crispy skin.

10. Pisang Goreng (Balinese Banana Fritters): Pisang Goreng is a beloved snack made from deep-fried banana fritters, often dusted with sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. (Vegetarian)

11. Dadar Gulung (Balinese Green Pancakes): Dadar Gulung is a delightful dessert comprising green crepes rolled around a sweet coconut and palm sugar filling. It’s a visually appealing and delicious treat.(Vegetarian)

12. Kopi Tubruk (Balinese Coffee): Enjoy Balinese coffee, often served with palm sugar, known for its robust flavor and aroma, making it a must-try for coffee aficionados.

13. Es Campur (Balinese Mixed Ice): Satisfy your sweet tooth with Es Campur, a refreshing dessert that combines crushed ice with a medley of fruits, jellies, and sweet syrup.

Indulge in these mouthwatering Balinese dishes to savour the diverse and delectable flavours of this Indonesian paradise. Bali’s culinary scene offers a delightful blend of tastes and textures that cater to a wide range of palates.

Experiment with Local Flavours of Bali ☑️

Bali, which is one of the best solo trip destinations in South East Asia , is known for its rich culture and craftsmanship, making it a fantastic destination for souvenir shopping.

Here are some of the best souvenirs to buy from Bali, that we recommend in this Bali Travel Itinerary and 9 Day Bali trip guide:

• Balinese Handicrafts: Bali is famous for its intricate woodcarvings, stone carvings, and silver work. You can find beautifully carved masks, statues, and figurines that represent Balinese culture and mythology.
• Batik Fabric: Batik is a traditional Indonesian art of dyeing fabric. You can purchase batik clothing, sarongs, scarves, and tablecloths in vibrant colours and patterns.
• Jewellery : Bali is renowned for its silver jewellery. You can find exquisite silver necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings often featuring Balinese motifs and intricate designs.
• Traditional Balinese Paintings: Balinese artists create vibrant and colorful paintings that depict scenes from Balinese mythology, landscapes, and daily life. These make for beautiful wall art and souvenirs.
• Wayang Kulit (Shadow Puppets): Wayang Kulit are traditional Indonesian shadow puppets made of intricately carved leather. They are used in traditional performances and can be a unique and decorative souvenir.
• Traditional Masks: Balinese masks are not only beautiful but also have cultural significance. They are used in dances and ceremonies. A Balinese mask can be a striking decorative piece for your home.
• Luwak Coffee: Bali is known for its coffee, and Luwak coffee is a specialty. It’s made from beans that have been eaten and excreted by civet cats. The unique processing gives it a distinctive flavor.
• Spices and Seasonings: Balinese spices and seasonings, such as vanilla beans, cloves, and nutmeg, are of high quality and make excellent souvenirs for food enthusiasts.
• Traditional Balinese Textiles: Apart from batik, Bali also produces ikat and songket textiles. These can be purchased as fabric or in the form of clothing, bags, or accessories.
• Bali Fragrances: Bali is known for its fragrances, including incense, essential oils, and aromatic soaps. You can find unique scents like frangipani and sandalwood.
• Bali Coffee and Tea: Alongside Luwak coffee, you can buy a variety of locally grown coffee and tea as souvenirs. These come in attractive packaging and make for great gifts.
• Bali Bamboo Products: Bali is known for its sustainable bamboo products, including homeware, utensils, and even bamboo straws, which are eco-friendly and stylish.

When shopping for souvenirs in Bali, consider visiting local markets, art shops, and galleries to find authentic and high-quality items. Bargaining is common in markets, so don’t hesitate to negotiate the price to get the best deal.

Shopping in Bali ☑️

Bali Travel Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Answered

Travellers from India often have specific questions when planning a trip to Bali, given the cultural differences, visa requirements, and other considerations.

Here are some common FAQs related to Bali specially for Indian travellers:

Indian citizens can visit Bali with a Visa on Arrival for up to 30 days for tourism purposes. If you plan to stay longer, you may need to apply for a visa extension. You don’t need to show any documentation, you simply have to hand over your Passport along with the Bali Visa on Arrival (VoA) fees of 35 USD, at the Bali Immigration Counter.

Bali’s dry season, from April to September, is considered the best time to visit, with pleasant weather and lower chances of rain. However, Bali is a year-round destination, so the choice of when to visit depends on your preferences.

Pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a universal power adapter, mosquito repellent, and comfortable walking shoes.

Bali is a tropical destination, so lightweight and comfortable clothing is recommended. Modest clothing is appreciated when visiting temples, and it’s important to pack swimwear for beach activities.

Bali is generally safe for tourists. Exercise the same caution as you would in any other tourist destination, such as safeguarding your belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

The currency used in Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). You can exchange money at airports, banks, or currency exchange offices in tourist areas.

Bali offers numerous attractions, including the Ubud Monkey Forest, Tegallalang Rice Terraces , Uluwatu Temple, and stunning beaches like Kuta Beach and Seminyak Beach. Check here for more of the Best Sights and Attractions in Bali.

It’s best to drink bottled water to avoid any potential stomach issues. Bottled water is readily available and affordable.

The official language is Bahasa Indonesia, but many Balinese people working in the tourism industry speak English. Learning a few basic Indonesian phrases can be helpful and appreciated.

When traveling to Bali, it’s helpful to know some common terms and phrases in the local language, which is Bahasa Indonesia. While many people in Bali also speak English, using a few local phrases can enhance your travel experience and show respect for the local culture. Here are some common terms and phrases:

• Selamat Pagi (seh-LAH-maht PAH-gee) – Good morning.
• Selamat Siang (seh-LAH-maht SEE-ahng) – Good afternoon.
• Selamat Sore (seh-LAH-maht SOH-ray) – Good evening.
• Selamat Malam (seh-LAH-maht MAH-lahm) – Good night.
• Apa Kabar? (AH-pah KAH-bar) – How are you?
• Baik (BAH-eek) – Good, fine.
• Terima Kasih (tuh-REE-mah KAH-see) – Thank you.
• Sama Sama (SAH-mah SAH-mah) – You’re welcome.
• Permisi (pehr-MEE-see) – Excuse me.
• Maaf (MAH-ahf) – Sorry.
• Tidak (TEE-dahk) – No.
• Ya (YAH) – Yes.
• Tolong (TOH-lohng) – Please.
• Sampai Jumpa (SAHM-pahy JOOM-pah) – Goodbye.
• Saya (SAH-yah) – I, me.
• Nama Saya (NAH-mah SAH-yah) – My name is…
• Bisa bicara Bahasa Inggris? (BEE-sah BEE-CHAHR-ah BAH-hah-sah ING-griss?) – Can you speak English?
• Di mana…? (DEE MAH-nah) – Where is…?
• Berapa harganya? (BEH-rah-pah HAR-gah-nyah?) – How much is it?
• Tolong bantu saya (TOH-lohng BAHN-too SAH-yah) – Please help me.
• Ini enak (EE-nee EH-nahk) – This is delicious.
• Boleh minta bon? (BOH-leh MEEN-tah bohn?) – Can I have the bill/check?

Learning and using these basic phrases can enhance your interactions with locals and make your trip to Bali more enjoyable. Indonesians generally appreciate when travellers make an effort to speak their language, even if it’s just a few words.

Yes, Bali offers a wide range of vegetarian and vegan restaurants and menu options, especially in popular tourist areas like Ubud and Seminyak.

Travellers can find a variety of Indian restaurants in Bali, including in popular areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud. Indian cuisine is widely available, and many restaurants offer both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Here are our recommendations about The Best Indian Restaurants  in Bali – 

Ubud – Queen’s of India | Warung Ganesha | Ganesha Ek Sanskriti

Gili Trawangan – Pesona Lounge

Seminyak / Kuta – Indian Delites | Queen’s Tandoor | Kailash Parbat | Gateway of India | Spice Mantraa

Balinese culture values politeness and respect. It’s important to dress modestly when visiting temples, remove your shoes before entering someone’s home, and be mindful of local customs and traditions.

Bali is one of the most popular budget travel destinations in the World, and is quite affordable, specially for Indian travellers, especially when compared to some other international destinations. Accommodation, food, and transportation options vary, so budget-conscious travellers can find suitable options.

Credit cards are widely accepted in Bali, especially in tourist areas. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially for small purchases or in more remote areas.

Transportation options in Bali include taxis, ride-sharing apps, rental scooters, and private drivers. Be sure to negotiate taxi fares before starting your journey. We recommend you to download the best travel planning app in Bali – GRAB or GoJek.

Bali has medical facilities, but it’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. In case of an emergency, contact your embassy or consulate for assistance.

We hope that the FAQs, shared here in this Bali Travel Itinerary, should help everyone, specially Indian travellers plan a smoother and more enjoyable trip to Bali. It’s always a good idea to stay updated on travel advisories and guidelines, especially in light of changing conditions.

The Beauty of Tegallalang Rice Fields in Ubud | Photo by Frans Daniels on Unsplash

✴️ Day 1 – Arrival in Bali | Airport transfer from Bali Airport to Ubud | Check In at Ubud Hotel | Visit Monkey Forest Ubud and explore the traditional markets of Ubud including the Ubud Art Market

✴️ Day 2 – Visit Tegallalang Rice fields and tick off the Bali Swing experience | Enjoy brunch at Kintamani Bali overlooking the Kintamani Volcano | Bali Countryside Cycle Tour | Leisure time in Ubud

✴️ Day 3 –  Wake up at 2 AM to get picked up for the Mt Batur Sunrise Trek | Relax at the Ubud hotel | Optional visit to Tirta Empul temple | Sundowner at Cretya Ubud

✴️ Day 4 – Transfer from Ubud to Padang Bai Harbour | Speedboat transfer from Padang Bai to Gili Trawangan | Check in at hotel in Gili Trawangan | Day at leisure | Chase the famous Gili sunsets and enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Gili T

✴️ Day 5 – Go Scuba Diving in Gili Islands or do the 3 island Snorkelling Tour | Day at Leisure | Sundowner by the Beach | Visit the Gili Trawangan Night Market for local dinner.

✴️ Day 6 – Speedboat transfer from Gili T to Padang Bai harbour | Transfer from Padang Bai to your Bali hotel in Seminyak/Kuta | Check in at Hotel in Seminyak/Kuta | Day at leisure | Sundowner at Potato Head Beach Club

✴️ Day 7 – Transfer to Sanur from hotel | Speedboat from Sanur to Nusa Penida | Nusa Penida Day Trip | Return to Sanur and evening at leisure | Shopping at Seminyak Flea Market / Kuta Beach Road

✴️ Day 8 – Surfing lesson at Kuta Beach | Day at leisure | Evening at Finns Beach Club

✴️ Day 9 – Transfer from Seminyak/Kuta to Bali Airport | Departure from Bali by flight

This meticulously designed Bali trip itinerary combines cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, and beachside bliss to make your Bali experience truly magical. Let Bali’s charm enchant you, leaving you with lasting impressions of this remarkable destination. Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on the adventure of a lifetime – Bali awaits your arrival!

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7 Day Bali Itinerary: How To Spend A Week In Bali

By Kate Comer. This guide to one week itinerary for Bali contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Looking for a done-for-you 7 day Bali itinerary ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Bali is called the “Island of Gods,” which reflects the destination’s deep-rooted spirituality, unique cultural traditions, and awe-inspiring natural beauty — all of which combine to create a spiritual haven that captivates visitors from around the world.

In terms of natural beauty, Bali is renowned for its stunning landscapes, like lush rice paddies, volcanic mountains, pristine beaches, and ancient forests — all of which can be explored in a one week Bali itinerary.

In all honesty, there are so many amazing things to do in Bali that you could easily spend more than that; however, if you’re stretched for time and only have enough time for a one week trip to Bali, you can still have an incredible time.

How? Keep reading for the perfect Bali itinerary for 7 days!

Quick tip: The best way to get around Bali is by hiring a private driver. You can click here and click here for some of the top-rated options for this. Additionally, you can click here for a full list of Bali drivers .

Table of Contents

Free Resources For Your Bali Travel Itinerary

But first, before we go over a suggested Bali trip itinerary for 7 days , I invite you to grab Jessie’s free  Ultimate Travel Planning Kit  — which includes 40+ travel resources — from printables to quizzes to itineraries — all meant to help you explore the world beyond the guidebook!

Some highlights of the kit include:

• Free “Where Should You Travel Next?” personality quiz
• Pre-plotted Google Maps for 45+ destinations
• Printable travel journal with writing prompts
• Packing lists for different types of trips

Once you’ve grabbed your copy , keep reading to learn how to spend 7 days in Bali.

Where Is Bali?

Bali is located in the country of Indonesia in Asia . Actually, Indonesia is the largest country in Southeast Asia.

Situated 1 mile east of Java, Bali is one of Indonesia’s many islands. The largest of these islands are New Guinea, Borneo, Sumatra, Sulawesi, and Java, though the most visited by tourists is Bali.

This gorgeous Indonesian island has so much to do and see, and you’ll have no problem filling up 7 days in Bali with fun and memorable experiences.

Getting To Bali

The most common way to get to Bali is by flying to Ngurah Rai International Airport — also known as Denpasar International Airport (DPS) — located in the south of Bali in Kuta. It’s a modern airport serving both international and domestic flights.

Bali is also accessible by boat from neighboring islands including Lombok and the Gili Islands.

Getting Around Bali

Bali by motorbike.

One of the best ways to get around Bali is on a motorbike, which can also help you more easily navigate heavy traffic.

To ride legally in Bali you need a full motorbike license in your home country and you should also have travel insurance to ensure you are fully covered.

It is also important to wear a motorbike helmet and to be completely sober when you are in control of a motorbike.

Bali by private car

A much safer option is to hire a driver . There are many great local drivers in Bali that will do day trips or transfers to help you experience Bali, and they are often a wealth of local knowledge and can even act as tour guides to explain Bali culture.

Grab and Gojek are also handy apps to load onto your phone. You can then hire either a car or motorbike with a fully licensed driver to get you from Point A to Point B while you enjoy the scenery during your 7 days Bali itinerary.

Best Time To Visit Bali

Bali’s weather is divided into dry and wet seasons. The dry season usually goes from April to October and is a popular time to enjoy outdoor activities, explore the island’s stunning landscapes, or even book one of the many surf and yoga retreats in Bali .

On the other hand, Bali’s rainy season is from November to March.

It is generally humid and hot in Bali due to its closeness to the equator. Rain can happen at any time of year but usually passes very quickly.

Christmas and New Year are very popular times to visit Bali; however, it tends to be rainy and expensive. In my opinion, this is the worst time to visit Bali .

My pick for the best time to visit Bali is either May and June or September and October. During these times, the weather is fantastic and it’s shoulder season — meaning you can score great deals and avoid the crowds.

Now if you’re looking to explore local culture, the best time to visit Bali is for Nyepi Day , which takes place in March annually. Each year it falls in March; however, the date changes depending on when Bali’s New Year occurs.

Nyepi Day is the Balinese Day of Silence, and an amazing Ogoh Ogoh Parade is held on Nyepi Eve. During this time, the streets come alive with demonic statues created by the locals to frighten away the evil spirits.

Just note that the whole island shuts down for this event. The airport closes for 24 hours and everyone must remain in their accommodation — which offers the perfect time to relax. Often hotels will have Nyepi packages that include food from a set menu.

Is Bali Safe?

According to Travel Safe – Abroad , your chances of being a victim of a violent crime during your Bali trip are low; however, petty crime and theft are issues to be aware of.

Bag snatchings can occur in busy tourist areas, and it is always recommended to keep your valuables out of sight. Travel safety gear items like pickpocket-proof garments and hidden pocket scarves can help with this.

Also, riding a motorbike in the busy areas of Bali can be dangerous — especially if you are an inexperienced rider. On the quieter roads away from tourist areas of the southern area of Bali, riding a motorbike can be safer, but always wear a helmet.

Natural disasters can occur in Bali due to active volcanoes on the island. For instance, Mount Agung erupted again back in 2017 creating travel issues. As Mt Agung is in the east, there were no real disruptions to the tourist south of the island; however, flights had to be canceled on certain days depending on the ash cloud direction.

One Week In Bali Travel Map

To help give you a lay of the land, here is a map for visiting Bali. It includes most of the main points and activities mentioned in this 7 day Bali itinerary:

Click here for an interactive version of this Bali travel map .

7-Day Bali Itinerary: Quick Overview

Here is a quick look at our 7 day itinerary for Bali:

Day #1: Ubud

• Campuhan Ridge Walk
• Cafe Wayan & Bakery
• Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
• Hujan Locale

Day #2: Ubud

• Balinese cooking class
• Tegalang Rice Terraces
• Locavore Restaurant

Day #3: Sidemen

• Milk and Madu
• Kanto Lampo Waterfall (one of the most popular waterfalls near Ubud and Sidemen)
• Tegenungan Waterfall
• Omma Dayclub
• Gembleng Waterfall
• Air Terjun Kuning
• Wapa di Ume Sidemen
• Asri Dining by Samanvaya

Day #4: Sidemen

• Sunrise hike up Mount Batur
• Mount Batur Geopark (which includes Lake Batur and Mount Batur)
• Penelokan Main Road
• Lake Batur Loop Trail
• Besakih Temple

Day #5: Nusa Islands

• Kelingking Beach
• Broken Beach
• Yellow Bridge
• Devil’s Tears
• Panorama Point

Day #6: Munduk

• Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
• Lake Bratan
• Munduk Waterfalls Trail
• Hidden Strawberry Garden
• Rice Terrace Munduk Loop
• Bali Handara Gate
• Bali Twin Lakes Viewpoint
• Clouds Kitchen
• Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort & Spa

Day #7: Canggu

• Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
• Finns Beach Club

7-Day Bali Itinerary: Breakdown

To help you decide on the best things to do in Bali in one week, the following recommended itinerary introduces you to some of the island’s top experiences. Note that if you’d like to extend your trip, you can also check out this 2 week Bali itinerary .

Day 1: Explore Ubud on foot

We’ll kick off this 7 day itinerary in Bali in Ubud. Typically, it’s recommended to create at least a 2 or 3 day itinerary for Ubud .

Start your day with an early morning hike along the Campuhan Ridge Walk , a scenic trail that takes you through the picturesque landscapes of central Bali.

Along the way, you’ll take in stunning views of lush green hills, rice fields, and the Campuhan River Valley. As you stroll along the ridge, you’ll pass by charming Balinese villages, traditional houses, and small art galleries.

The best entry point to the walk is the entrance sign to the Ibah Villa & Suites on Jl Raya Campuhan. Follow the driveway down to the left and you will enter the trail once you pass the temple.

The Camuphan Ridge Walk is about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) in length and can take up to 1 hour for a return trip at a leisurely pace. There are plenty of photo opportunities along the way, and it is best to start early before the midday sun makes it too hot.

A 15-minute walk from the Campuhan Ridge Walk entrance is the Monkey Forest Road , which showcases many restaurants and shops.

For a traditional Balinese lunch, stop at Cafe Wayan & Bakery . Established in 1986, their lush backyard gardens are the perfect setting to enjoy delicious food and drinks. Make sure to order the Indonesian Sampler Plate to try a variety of local dishes.

After lunch, your next stop is the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary — which is sure to be a highlight of your Bali one week itinerary.

The new and improved visitor’s center explains why the sanctuary holds such great cultural and spiritual importance to the Balinese people. Not only is it home to several ancient temples and statues but it’s also inhabited by a large population of long-tailed macaques — which are considered sacred in Balinese culture.

By visiting the sanctuary, you can gain insight into Balinese Hinduism and witness the blend of nature and religion.

A small entrance fee allows you to wander around the forest and photograph the monkeys, majestic temples, and natural beauty of the place.

Tip: it is best to keep your loose items secured as the monkeys can be very cheeky and steal your things.

After a long day of walking and sightseeing in Bali, book a table to have dinner at Hujan Locale — one of celebrity Chef Will Meyrick’s restaurants. The family-style grazing menu showcases Indonesian and Southeast Asian street food-style dishes served in a contemporary style. And the cocktails are exceptional too!

Ubud Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Ubud . Ubud Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Ubud .

Day 2: Balinese cooking class & rice terrace visit

On the 5th day of your 7 day Bali itinerary, you can enjoy the experience of learning to cook local Balinese dishes at an Ubud cooking school .

There are a huge range of cooking schools in Bali and many will begin the day at a local market to buy fresh ingredients — which is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in local Balinese culture.

Once the market shopping is completed, the class returns to a local family compound to commence the preparation of Balinese dishes.

The host will share many tips and tricks to cook up the most delicious recipes that will become lunch to share with your new friends in the group. You might also walk away with a recipe book to take home.

After lunch, visit Bali’s famous Tegalang Rice Terraces (Sawah Terasering Tegalalang). Located in the village of Tegalalang in central Bali, the rice terraces are renowned for their stunning natural beauty and cultural significance.

The steepness of the rice terraces is amazing and you feel like you are in a natural amphitheater.

Along with getting to take incredible photos, other highlights of visiting the Tegalang Rice Terraces include the chance to meet local farmers, learn about the rice-growing process, and try your hand at farming.

Additionally, there are several cafes and restaurants overlooking the terraces, providing a serene setting to enjoy a meal while admiring the scenic landscapes.

Note that it can often get quite busy in the morning at the rice paddies. Luckily, taking a leisurely stroll through the terraces before sunset is a beautiful way to end the day and can help you beat the crowds.

A stay in Ubud is not complete without visiting Locavore Restaurant located in central Ubud on Jalan Dewisita. Established in 2013 by chefs Eelke Plasmeijer and Ray Adriansyah, Locavore celebrates local and sustainably grown food. The tasting menu changes every four months, making it perfect to visit again and again.

In terms of accommodation, there are many great hotels in Ubud, though a few personal favorites include Alaya Resort (CHSE Certified) and Wapa di Ume .

Day 3: Chase waterfalls in Bali

No one week in Bali itinerary would be complete without exploring Bali’s waterfalls, which is what you’ll focus on today. Milk and Madu in Ubud near the Ubud Royal Palace (Puri Saren Agung) is the perfect cafe to fuel your body for this beautiful yet busy day.

After breakfast, your first stop is Kanto Lampo Waterfall in Gianyar Regency, near Ubud. An easy walk down from the parking lot, Kanto Lampo Waterfall is perfect for all ages.

The waterfall is truly stunning, with a unique cascade that flows down a series of stepped rocks. Below, the waterfall creates several natural rock pools at different levels — offering the opportunity to take a refreshing dip.

You will get wet to get an incredible photo opportunity underneath the waterfall, so be sure to wear your swimsuit. Changing facilities are also available.

The next stop is Tegenungan Waterfall — known for its powerful surge of water flowing down from 25 meters (82 feet). Surrounded by lush tropical forests and featuring a natural swimming pool, it’s one of the top places to visit in Bali in 7 days.

Once you’re done, consider taking an elevator down to the adjacent Omma Dayclub . Here you can enjoy lunch, a swim in the pool, and amazing views of Tegenungan Waterfall.

Next up on your Bali 7-day itinerary is Gembleng Waterfall , located in the hills of Sidemen. Easy to access and explore, the clifftop waterfall pools are a fantastic place to swim and enjoy spectacular views.

Air Terjun Kuning is the last waterfall on our list — and this one includes a 15-minute descent down concrete steps. Along the way, you’ll take in beautiful jungle views. And because it’s lesser known, there is a good chance you’ll have it all to yourself!

Be careful while swimming in the waterfall’s rock pools; the current can get quite strong as the water rushes through the canyon.

For your accommodations, it’s recommended to stay at the beautiful Wapa di Ume Sidemen . Set amongst the gorgeous hills of Sidemen, it is a perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.

The village of Sidemen has a well-preserved cultural heritage, and you’ll be able to experience traditional Balinese culture and a more authentic way of life than many other Bali destinations.

Additionally, it’s surrounded by lush rice terraces, scenic valleys, and towering mountains for a look at the island’s gorgeous countryside.

When you get hungry, head to Asri Dining by Samanvaya for dinner, which focuses on Indonesian dishes made with fresh and local ingredients.

Sidemen Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Sidemen . Sidemen Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Sidemen .

Day 4: Adventures around Mount Batur

For today’s Bali itinerary, hire a driver and leave Sidemen around 5am to head to Kintamani . Here, you’ll visit the UNSECO World Heritage-listed Mount Batur Geopark — which includes Lake Batur and Mount Batur .

Many people enjoy doing a sunrise hike up Mount Batur , though note this will involve arriving into the area the night before. For the hike, you’ll get picked up from your hotel around 1:30am-2:30am in order to reach the summit for sunrise around 5:30am.

It’s a hard 5.8-mile (9.3-kilometer) hike, though if you’re up for the early start and the challenge, it can be worth it for the unique experience of watching an epic sunrise over Lake Batur from atop a volcano. Undoubtedly, it will be a highlight of your Bali 7 day tour.

Alternatively, you can enjoy a coffee at one of the many roadside cafes on Penelokan Main Road — like AKASA Kintamani Coffee or Montana Del Cafe — while the sunrises over Mount Batur.

On a clear day, you may also get a view of Mount Agung — an active volcano that is the highest point in Bali and the island’s most sacred mountain. Many visitors also enjoy hiking Mount Agung , though note it’s very challenging.

After sunrise, hire a local guide to hike around Lake Batur. The moderate 15.7-mile (25.3-kilometer) Lake Batur Loop Trail takes you around a lake inside the caldera of Mount Batur Volcano, which is quite a stunning sight. Feel free to do as much or as little of the trek as you wish.

After your hike, rent a canoe through C.Bali Canoeing & Cycling and enjoy paddling on beautiful Lake Batur alongside local fishermen.

For lunch, choose from one of the many local warungs (small local Balinese eateries), like Nasi Goreng or Nasi Campur , which are my personal favorites.

Finish your day of outdoor adventure by visiting the Mount Batur Geopark Museum , which explains in detail all the wonders of Lake and Mount Batur.

On the drive back to your accommodation in Sidemen, visit Besakih Temple (Pura Besakih). Sitting on the west slope of Mount Agung, it’s known as the largest and holiest temple of Balinese Hinduism.

The temple complex is made up of 23 separate temples, with Pura Penataran Agung being the largest and most important. The temples are amazing to explore and you could easily spend hours wandering this spiritual place in Bali.

Day 5: Day trip to the Nusa Islands

A trip to Bali should always include time at the Nusa Islands of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida . Most of the tours and fast boats to the Nusa Islands depart from Sanur Beach in northern Sanur.

The main reason to visit the Nusa Islands is for the laid-back vibe, beautiful beaches with palm trees, and amazing snorkeling. Moreover, it is quieter than Bali and the sunsets are spectacular.

They are both beautiful places to stay, but with only a 7 day trip to Bali, you will need to join a guided tour — like these top-rated options .

The boat ride over is a lot of fun and you can then take in beautiful views of Kelingking Beach and the fascinating Broken Beach on Nusa Penida Island.

Broken Beach is actually a phenomenon where a natural archway has formed, creating a circular hole in the cliffs that surround a turquoise-colored lagoon. The archway looks like a broken bridge.

If the weather permits, jump in the water for some swimming and snorkeling.

Once you’ve finished exploring Nusa Penida, tours typically take you by boat to Nusa Lembongan. Here you can check out the famous Yellow Bridge that links Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. The bridge can only be crossed on foot or by bike.

A short drive from the Yellow Bridge on Nusa Lembongan is Devil’s Tears — an interesting rock formation that puts on a spectacular show at high tide when the water blows 2-3 meters in the air. Just note that getting too close can be dangerous, so it’s best to watch from a safe distance.

At the end of the guided tour, enjoy fantastic views of Bali and Mount Agung from Panorama Point on Nusa Lembongan.

Included in the day trip to the Nusa Islands is the return fast boat trip to Sanur. With only 7 days to visit Bali, it is recommended to stay in Sanur after the guided tour.

One recommendation is to stay at the Segara Village Hotel in Sanur. The hotel is on the beach and is only a 20-minute leisurely walk along the water from the Sanur Port (Pelabuhan Sanur) boat arrival point.

Sanur Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Sanur . Sanur Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Sanur .

Day 6: Explore Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

After a delicious breakfast at the picturesque in-house restaurant Byrd House Bali at the Segara Village Hotel, today you’ll head to North Bali to the mountainous region of Bedugul .

Hire a driver or book a tour to visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple (Pura Ulun Danu Bratan), a Hindu temple that sits on the shores of Lake Bratan — a location that reflects the deep connection between the Balinese people and their natural environment.

Exploring the temple complex allows you to take in its striking architecture, gardens, several Merus (pagoda-like structures), shrines, and iconic tiered roofs. In fact, you can see these roofs reflected on Lake Bratan (Danau Beratan) — which is a great photo op!

Additionally, you can hire a boat to cruise around the lake. Seeing the temple from the water with the mist-covered mountains and lush greenery in the background is an awe-inspiring sight.

Next up on your Bali 7 day itinerary is Munduk — a village located in the highlands of Bali known for its scenic landscapes, lush rice terraces, waterfalls, and coffee plantations.

You can spend time exploring local nature through activities like hiking the Munduk Waterfalls Trail or the Rice Terrace Munduk Loop , or strawberry picking at one of the many local u-pick farms, like Hidden Strawberry Garden .

Close by to the strawberry farms is the stunning Bali Handara Gate . The gate is the entrance to the Handara Golf & Resort and is most famous as one of Bali’s top Instagram spots .

A short drive away is the Bali Twin Lakes Viewpoint  offering a view over the Twin Lakes : Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan. It’s a beautiful setting to enjoy a drink at one of the roadside stalls.

By now, you’re probably hungry. For a delicious Indonesian meal, head to Clouds Kitchen within the gorgeous Elevate by Hanging Gardens resort. It’s the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring Bali — and it features sweeping views too!

Since it’s a long drive to Munduk, it’s recommended to stay overnight. One of my personal favorite Bali accommodations in this area is the Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort & Spa , which offers the ultimate sunset views over northern Bali and East Java.

They have a working coffee plantation and so many activities to enjoy — from trekking to cycling to enjoying a Bali flower bath in their spa. The food served in their restaurants is also delicious.

Just be sure to pack something warm, as it can get chilly in the Munduk Hills.

Munduk Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Munduk . Munduk Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Munduk .

Day 7: Relax in Canggu

Wake up at Munduk Moding Plantation to the sound of silence and enjoy breakfast with views over the infinity pools.

Don’t forget to take a photo of yourself walking along the infinity pool edge, which creates an illusion that you are walking in the sky!

After checking out, make the drive down to Canggu , with a stop at the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces along the way.

Located in the coastal regency of Tabanan , the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces span over 600 hectares (1,483 acres). It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the harmonious coexistence between humans and nature and the usage of traditional Balinese agricultural practices.

It’s easy to explore the rice terraces on foot to enjoy the spectacular natural scenery and take photos.

Once you reach Canggu, treat yourself. After a busy week traveling Bali, relax at the VIP area of Finns Beach Club in Canggu — a lovely spot to chill out and enjoy an afternoon by the pool sipping cocktails. It’s also a great place to get a Balinese massage.

Remember to have your camera charged, as the sunsets here are spectacular.

Canggu Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Canggu . Canggu Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Canggu .

Best Tours In Bali

Short on time but want to make the most of your visit to Bali? Add the following top-rated experiences to your Bali 7-day itinerary.

These excursions are also great for those traveling solo in Bali , as they offer a fun way to make new friends:

• ️Nusa Penida by Private Boat: Snorkeling 4 Spots, Swim with Mantas & Land Tour (from Kota Denpasar)
• Best of Ubud: Monkey Forest, Temple, Waterfall, Rice Terrace & Art Villages (from Ubud)
• Bali ATV Ride & White Water Rafting (from Badung Regency)
• Gate of Heaven: East Bali Private Full Day Tour – All Inclusive (from Ubud)
• Best of Bali Waterfalls: Tibumana, Tukad Cepung & Tegenungan (from Denpasar)
• Bali Full-Day Water Temples and UNESCO Rice Terraces Tour (from Denpasar)

Click here for a full list of Bali tours .

Cost Of A 7-day Trip To Bali

Now that we’ve gone over what to do in Bali for a week, let’s discuss costs. The amount you spend in Bali for one week will depend on your budget and style of traveling. You can eat and stay in local places or you can splurge and stay at high-end 5-star Bali resorts.

Value for money is exceptional in Bali. You can live like a celebrity for a fraction of the price that it would cost in other parts of the world.

That being said, here is an estimate of what a Bali 7 days itinerary might cost. Note that prices are in USD:

Cost of accommodation in Bali

Homestays: A great way to explore Bali on a budget is to stay at local homestays. Prices vary between $70-$200 per week.

Budget hotels/villas: For access to a pool and clean rooms, you can expect to pay $250-$400 per week.

Mid-range hotels/villas: Great value options with resort-style facilities can be found for $550-$1500 per week. This can include many well-known hotel brands like IHG and Marriott International.

Luxury hotels/villas: Bali does 5-star luxury amazingly well! $2000-$7000 per week will provide you with the ultimate Bali stay.

This map   can help you compare your options for the best hotels in Bali. It’s set to show hotels and rentals in Ubud, but you can easily change this based on where you’re staying:

Cost of food in Bali

Eating in local Balinese warungs will set you back $2 for a nasi goreng (an Indonesian fried rice dish). Add a Bintang beer for $1.

Balinese cafes typically offer great service and are reasonably priced. For example, a burger is between $6-$10.

Higher-end restaurants will cost between $15-$35 for dishes that taste amazing.

Cost of transportation in Bali

Bali driver: Day trips cost about $60.

Grab or Gojek: A motorbike ride can cost between $0.50 to $5 depending on the distances covered.

Cost of activities in Bali

One of the best things to do in Bali is completely free: seeing a spectacular local sunrise or sunset ! The best sunrises are in Sanur and Nusa Dua. For the best sunsets, Canggu, Seminyak, Legian, Jimbaran, and Uluwatu are the places to be.

Shopping in the local markets you will find Bali souvenirs and clothes for $1-$10. Remember to barter.

Waterpark entry prices can range from $10-$40 per person, and fun tour activities like ATV riding cost between $60-$80.

Tips For Having An Amazing Week In Bali

Exploring Bali in one week will give you a small taste of this beautiful island. To help you make the most of your Bali 7-day itinerary, here are some tips:

Be polite. It is important to ask questions of the Balinese in a polite way and to always respect their culture. Always carry a sarong and keep shoulders covered at temples. Also, read the rules before entering temples as some customs can vary widely from Western society.

Know how to get around. Getting around Bali can take time due to traffic and in more rural areas, due to the road conditions. It is important to factor this in when planning your 7 days in Bali itinerary. Always choose places closer together so you spend less time traveling in the car each day.

Understand tipping guidelines. Tipping is not expected, as a service charge of 21% is often added; however, if you receive amazing service, tips are always welcome.

Barter at markets. Shopping at markets can be fun in Bali. Just be sure to barter and not walk out of the shop paying too much.

Travel Insurance For 7 Days In Bali

When visiting Bali — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Bali In 7 Days: Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoyed this one week itinerary for Bali!

Bali offers a diverse and captivating experience that leaves visitors enchanted with its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality.

Using the above 7-day Bali itinerary, you’ll be able to enjoy the best that this island paradise has to offer. Your heart and mind will be forever grateful.

What would you add to this 7 day Bali itinerary?

Enjoyed this itinerary for Bali in 7 days ? Pin it for later!

About The Author

Kate Comer is the creator of the travel blog Rolling Along With Kids , which aims to inspire families to travel to Bali, which she has visited over 13 times. Along with reading her Bali guides, you can connect with Kate via her Facebook group , Facebook page , and Instagram .

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Hello JESSIE,

Given information is very useful. We also visited Bali in July, just want to ask, have you also faced problems while converting money from local shops? People tried to cheat on us.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

How to Plan the Perfect Bali Itinerary (7 Days-3 Weeks)

By: Author Taylor Lorenz

Posted on Last updated: 10/25/2023

Bali is an idyllic island with a name so famous that many people often think that Bali is a country. It’s actually one of many islands that make up the incredibly diverse country of Indonesia and acts as a great jumping-off point for further travels to Lombok and Flores .

Bali is by far the most popular island, and where I called home multiple times during my travels. drawing The beaches, iconic rice terraces, jungle-covered volcanos, unique culture and heartwarming people are just a few of the Island of Gods perks.

Whether you’re a luxury traveler or a backpacker, this Bali itinerary guide will serve you well. I’ve detailed multiple options for you to pick and choose what serves your Bali vacation best. There’s no one-itinerary-fits-all here.

Planning a trip to Bali can be really daunting as there’s no set route or place or place to start. This Bali travel guide will tell you what to do in Bali, the places you must visit in Bali and the top things to do in Bali. It’s the ultimate Bali trip planner from someone who knows Bali well.

Table of Contents

Bali Fast Facts

Currency in Bali: Indonesia Rupiah Language:  Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia) which is spoken throughout Indonesia and Balinese Population:  4.2 million Religion: Balinese Hinduism (a mix of Buddhism and Shivaism)

Recommended Bali Tours

Skip planning your trip yourself with these top-rated tours around the country.

• Wanderlands Bali – 8 Days
• Bali Bucket List Boutique – 10 Days
• Bali One Life Adventures – 12 Days

Bali Itinerary

Creating a Bali itinerary can be very difficult because it really depends on what a person is looking for. Below I’ve created mini itineraries for each place recommending how long to stay and the top things to do. Unfortunately, there is no best itinerary for Bali as it really depends on what you want to do.

Bali Trip Itineraries by Length

Follow the order that each itinerary is listed in and you’ll have yourself a route! These itineraries move at a decent place so if you plan on relaxing more then drop one of the locations. If you want an itinerary for 4-5 days I recommend picking one or two spots maximum.

7 Day Itinerary

• Ubud (2 days)
• Uluwatu (2 days)
• Canggu (2 days)
• Nusa Penida (day trip)

10 Day Itinerary

• Ubud (3 days)
• Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan & Nusa Penida (3 days)

2 Week Itinerary

• Seminyak (1 day)
• Amed (day trip from Ubud)
• Gili Islands (2 days)
• Nusa Islands (3 days)

3 Week Itinerary

• Seminyak (2 days)
• Munduk (2 days)
• Lovina (2 days)
• Amed (2 days)
• Extra day to spend wherever you like!

Breakdown of my Bali Trip Itinerary

Ubud: 3-4 Days

Though easily a week could be spent in Ubud if you love wandering around, this cultural hub can be fully explored in just 3-4 days. Ubud is where you’ll do most of your Bali sightseeing.

DAY ONE:  Spend the day exploring around town. Hit up the Monkey Forest and make your way up Monkey Forest Road (watching out for the monkeys of course) where you can poke in and out of shops full of jewelry, souvenirs, local art and more. By the end of the road you’ll hit the Ubud Market where you can easily spend an hour or more.

After the market make sure you make it over to the Campuhan Ridge Walk for sunset over the green fields. Grab some food, there are lots of options nearby and head back to your accommodation.

DAY TWO:  Today is full of temple hopping and some waterfalls. Hire yourself a scooter, get a driver or do a tour. The first stop before it gets busy is Tirta Empul where you’ll get into the water and bless yourself under the holy water. Gunung Kawi is close by and is very Balinese with beautiful rice terraces surrounding it. Next are the stunning and most famous rice terraces on the island, Tegallalang Rice Terraces where you can spend some time taking pictures and trekking through the terraces.

After, make your way to Tibumana Waterfall, a pretty but simple waterfall that is easy to get to but not very touristy. The next waterfall, Tegenungan Waterfall, is big and powerful but touristy. On your way back to Ubud stop at Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave, another temple which I’m sure you’ve seen pictures of before.

DAY THREE: Day three is the day to spoil yourself. Get yourself into a spa where the low prices will have you getting multiple treatments. Indulge in a yoga class. The most famous yoga studio in all of Bali is located in Ubud, the Yoga Barn. I can vouch that the classes and spaces are excellent! In the morning or afternoon squeeze in a cooking class so you can try multiple dishes from traditional Balinese cuisine.

DAY FOUR:  Get up early and hike Mount Batur for sunrise . The second half of the day is either for sleeping or getting in some extra sightseeing. Some suggestions are visiting the Bali swing, stuffing your face with more great food, visiting the Bamboo Forest which is excellent for Instagram-worthy shots or watching a traditional Balinese dance.

READ MORE: 21 Incredible Things to do in Ubud &  Where to Stay in Ubud

Canggu: 2-3 Days

Canggu is a major chill out zone but it is easy to get caught here, there’s just something about the place that makes people want to stay longer.

DAY ONE:  Do what Canggu is best known for, hang out on the beach. If you can’t sit all day then catch a surf lesson or hit up a yoga class. Spend your evening at Old’s Man, the main bar in town or party at one of the nightly hot spots. Make sure you catch sunset on the beach. Most hostels will have a schedule up of when to go to Pretty Poison, Sand Bar and more for the best party.

DAY TWO:  Hit up the beach again or check out a beach club where you can live a little luxury without spending a fortune. Eat at some of the best spots in the area (the food here seriously does not disappoint) and do a mini shopping trip at the Love Anchor Market. For sunset visit the famous Tanah Lot just outside of Canggu, but we warned it will be busy. Then catch sunset on the beach.

DAY THREE:  Another day to relax, do another surf or yoga lesson and party. Find yourself on a rooftop pool, at a spa or back at the beach. Don’t forget to catch sunset again, Canggu seriously has the best sunsets!

READ MORE: 30 Cool Things to do in Canggu & Where to Stay in Canggu

Seminyak: 1-2 Days

If you’re not planning a relaxing holiday for a week then I would move through Seminyak quickly as the luxe lifestyle here has prices that add up quickly.

DAY ONE:  Today is a fun day, basically spend your time eating your through Seminyak at all of the trendy cafes and drinking at the stylish bars. Check out Bali’s very first speakeasy bar, Baker Street Social. But if you don’t just want to eat all day (who doesn’t?) then chill out with some massages. At night you can party at Sky Garden that’s open until 5AM and is often host to world famous DJ’s.

DAY TWO: Hit the beach or a beach club. Potato Head is one of Bali’s most famous beach clubs and it is fabulous. If you’re at the beach you can try your hand at a surfing lesson. If you need some more activities while in Seminyak then try a little retail therapy or visit the escape room or Museum Art Trick 3D. End your night at another hot spot to party at and don’t forget to enjoy a beautiful sunset on the beach!

READ MORE: 13 of the Finest Things to do in Seminyak & Where to Stay in Seminyak

Bukit Peninsula (Uluwatu): 2 Days

DAY ONE:  There is nothing better to do in Uluwatu than beach hop . You have so many choices, the most famous ones being Dreamland Beach, Padang Padang Beach (where a scene from Eat, Pray, Love was filmed and also some of the best parties) and Uluwatu Beach. However, my personal favourite is Melasti Beach and Nyang Nyang Beach is also awesome. Spend your evening at one of the most famous Bali attractions: Uluwatu Temple where you can see the sunset as you watch a Kecak dance, otherwise known a as a fire dance. Beware of the monkeys here.

DAY TWO:  Get active and get surfing or spend another day beach hopping. If you happen to be in Uluwatu on a Sunday then don’t miss the party at Single Fin. Even if you’re not here on a Sunday it’s worth a visit to Single Fin to watch sunset or to see the surfers during the day on the epic waves. There are also lots of pools that you can hang out at if you buy something or pay an entrance fee.

READ MORE: 10 Fantastic Things to do in Uluwatu & Where to Stay in Uluwatu

Nusa Dua: 2-3 Days

If you’re up for a quick visit as a globetrotter, 3 days is plenty, but this little paradise could easily be where to stay for a week if you want more of a holiday.

DAY ONE:  Visit the beaches where you can also eat and drink. The top ones to check out are Nusa Dua Beach and Geger Beach. Off of Nusa Dua Beach is a great snorkelling spot. Another water activity is witnessing the water blow, where water literally blows from a rock formation. In the evening you can catch a Cirque d’Soilel like show at Devdan Show .

DAY TWO:  Day two is for exploring. If you’re a shopping lover than stop at Bali Collection for a mix of stores. If you like culture then visit  Puja Mandala, a religious monument with temples, mosques and more. Or if you want to be active then join a cycling tour. In the evening you can stroll along the Nusa Dua Promenade.

DAY THREE: Feel like a real-life pirate and visit Pirates’ Bay, get back into the water for some water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing. Nusa Dua is full of entertainment! Lastly, you can check out the Surf n’ Turf park that has practice waves and instructors waiting for you.

READ MORE: 15 Awesome Things to do in Nusa Dua & Where to Stay in Nusa Dua

Nusa Islands: 1-5 Days

This group of three islands are absolutely stunning. Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan can be visited as day trips or you can choose to spend time on each island. I recommend spending more time on Nusa Penida (2-3 days) and less on Nusa Lembongan (1-2). Nusa Ceningan is so small it can be visited as part of your time on Nusa Lembongan as it’s connected by a yellow bridge which is a short walk or drive.

I have detailed itineraries for each island:

• Nusa Lembongan (most visited)
• Nusa Ceningan (smallest)
• Nuda Penida (largest and most scenic)

Kuta: 1-2 Days

Kuta is a love or hate kind of place. You either want to spend some time here or avoid it like the plague.

DAY ONE:  If you want some water entertainment for the day that doesn’t involve a beach then make your way to Waterbom Bali or Circus Waterpark. If that’s too western for you then head to Kuta Beach where you can also catch one of Bali’s best sunsets.

DAY TWO:  Day two is another day packed with entertainment. You have the option to visit Kuta Theater which has a magic show, Dream Museum Zone which has immersive life scale paintings, try the 5GX “reverse bungee’, get your surf on at Amanda Flow House, Upside Down World Bali (self-explanatory, I think), or Pandora Experience Bali.

READ MORE: 11 Entertaining Things to do in Kuta &  Where to Stay in Kuta

Munduk: 2-3 Days

Munduk is great to do as a couple day trip from Ubud or as a trip from Canggu to Ubud. There is a lot of driving involved but the scenery is beautiful! Grab a bike or a private driver and you’ll love the nature here.

DAY ONE:  You’ll spend a good chunk of today driving to the Munduk area but once there you can stop at some stunning waterfalls such as Munduk Waterfall, Gitgit Waterfall, Aling-Aling Waterfall, Banyumala Waterfall (if you only visit one, make it this one!) and Melating Waterfall. Spend the night in Munduk, trust me you’ll be tired.

DAY TWO:  If you choose to spend 3 days exploring Munduk then this is your hiking day. Get up early before the clouds roll in to see the epic views over the rolling hills and mountains. Guided tours are available.

DAY THREE:  This is the day you head back to Ubud or move onto Ubud from Canggu. Get up early again so you can get to the hot spots before the crowds appear. Stop at the Twin Lake Wanagiri Spot (that’s the name on Google Maps) for an Instagram heaven with a swing that has a view over one of the lakes.

Next visit some beautiful gates that are really only gates to a golf course (Handara Golf & Resort Bali). They’re still awesome though. Lastly, stop at one of the most famous temples on the island, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple that sits along a lake with the mountains in the background. There are also lots of viewpoints to stop at along the drive through the lakes.

READ MORE: 8 Magical Things to do in Munduk

Amed: 2 Days

Your time in Amed really varies depending on what you want to do. If you’re not diving then 2 days in fine to explore the basics, but if you want to spend more time in the water then budget time accordingly. You can also get scuba certified here.

DAY ONE:  Amed is small to explore so spend the day in the water or along the beach. Go snorkeling or free dive at the top sites. Chill out on the beach, pop your head into the few shops or enjoy some yoga. In the evening make your way to the best viewpoint in town, Jemeluk viewpoint for sunset and a tasty dinner or a few drinks.

DAY TWO: Day two involves a mini day trip to the most Instagramable spot on the entire island:  Lempuyang Luhur Temple . It’s famous for having the ‘Gates to Heaven’ that frames Mount Agung, Bali’s tallest volcano, in the background. It will take about half the day and the second half you can do activities from day one that didn’t get to.

Lovina: 1-2 Days

Lovina is worth a quick visit or can even be worked in as a stop on a trip to Munduk.

DAY ONE: Hangout on the black sand beach. Visit any waterfalls between Lovina and Munduk and hop into the freshwater springs or the Banjar hot springs…or both!

DAY TWO:  Go on a dolphin spotting tour , take a cooking class, visit Brahmavihara (a Buddhist temple) or spend even more time on the beach.

Best Time to Visit Bali

While Bali can be visit year-round there is definitely a best time to travel to Bali . Bali experiences only two seasons: wet season and dry season. The wet season, November to March, brings heavy rains but it never rains all day, mostly just showers for an hour or two during the day. The dry season, April to October has some rain but it is minimal and it is not uncommon to have dry days for weeks.

The temperature is consistent year-round with temperatures reaching as low as 23°C and highs of 34°C.

The busiest time of the year to visit in July and August so if you want to avoid crowds then the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons April-June and September-October. It’s a treat to visit in the spring as it’s just after the wet seasons has finished and the island is covered in lush greenery.

Bali Trip Budget

Bali can be a budget destination or it can be a luxury destination. The island has it all and you can choose how much money you want to spend. Though I found it slightly more expensive than other countries in Southeast Asia , I found Bali to be very flexible when it came to budgeting for accommodation, food and transport.

If you want to be tight $25USD day will get you by no problem but if you’re looking to be on a budget but with some wiggle room plan for $35-45USD a day. This is if you’re staying in hostels (100,000-150,000 a night), eating local food (15,000-50,000 per meal) and using budget apps to find transport which varies widely. Activities will fit into this budget but not daily.

If you want to live more comfortably, perhaps staying in a guesthouse, a cheap villa or hotel plan to spend $60-100USD per day. Accommodation in this range will cost you 300,000-600,000 per night.

On this budget you can eat all western food and enjoy the fancier restaurants with meals ranging from 100,000-350,000. Cocktails will run you anywhere from 70,000-200,000. You can also afford to take taxis or hire private drivers. You can also afford to do activities daily.

Activities range but typically cost between 100,000-300,000 with some costing more or else. Entering a temple is anywhere between 15,000-60,000, a yoga class is 100,000-130,000, a cooking class 300,000 and hiking Mount Batur 300,000.

Anything above $100USD a day you’ll be able to stay in hotels, resorts and enjoy the totally luxe things on the island. Though know that Bali is home to some of the most expensive hotels in the world!

How to Get to Bali

There are 3 ways to get to Bali: plane, boat and bus. The most popular way to get to Bali is by plane, flying into the Ngurah Rai International Airport or Denpasar International Airport. There is one Bali airport (two names) that serves Bali and is located in Denpasar.

By boat is also an option with the most common route being from Java, which is a common way for travellers to travel between the two major islands. Lastly, you can take the bus from Java’s capital of Jakarta which takes 23 hours.

Travelling Around Bali

Getting around Bali is easy and you have a few options. Unfortunately, there is no public transport in Bali so you will have to rely on private drivers and apps to find you drivers or drive a scooter.

Luckily it never takes more than 2 hours to get between destinations unless you are planning on travelling far across the island which shouldn’t be the case as there is plenty to see and you’ll want to make stops and stay in more than one or two areas.

To get from the Bali airport to where you are staying

It is best to have a transfer booked ahead of time before you get to Bali. Private airport transfers are very affordable which can be booked online. Many accommodations also offer transfers too.

To get from destination to destination

The cheapest way to move between different areas is to hire a Grab, Uber or Go-Jek (the Indonesian version of Grab/Uber). A price will be shown, however, drivers will always try and negotiate. This is normal so get your bargaining skills ready.

I recommend booking private drivers between destinations which are very affordable and less of a hassle.

The most expensive way is to hire a taxi, Blue Bird taxis are the main and trusted taxi company. Of course, if you’re comfortable driving a scooter with your baggage then you can hire a scooter and drive wherever you please.

There are some shuttles available, mostly from Ubud that are a cheaper shared option. If you’re taking a boat to the Nusa Islands, Lombok or the Gili Islands then transportation is usually organized and included in the price.

Getting around in an area

You can continue to hire cars or taxis or you can rent a scooter to scoot around to all of the highlights. Scooters cost 50,000-80,000 per day. Driving in Bali can be challenging because of traffic and I highly recommend only driving if you have experience . If you do not then either choose not to drive or practice somewhere quiet first. Through Go-Jek you can hire drivers to take you on a scooter which is a fraction of the price and extremely affordable.

READ MORE: 11 Common Southeast Asia Travel Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Travel Insurance

READ MORE: 51 Tips for Backpacking Southeast Asia

Where to Go in Bali

A quick overview in map form of where to go in Bali with more detailed descriptions of each place below.

This is the big question and often the most difficult part of travelling in Bali for people. It’s a large island, over 5,000 sq. km and there are many places to see in Bali. Below I’ve listed the highlights of the best places to visit in Bali and where to stay in Bali to help you decide which area or places you want to spend your time in. These are listed in no particular order.

Ubud is the most famous area in Bali and it’s here that you’ll recognize the rice fields from Eat, Pray Love . Ubud is a town located in the centre of the island and is most known for its culture and abundance of yoga studios and yoga retreats in Ubud . A stop here is in order if you want to see temples, traditional dancing and crafts and to shop. Just outside of Ubud are the most famous rice terraces and some of the islands most famous scenery.

READ MORE: 11 Best Yoga Retreats in Bali

Canggu is a digital nomad hub with lots of westerns living here permanently or spending a few months on the southern coast. Canggu has a distinct backpacker vibe as there are no resorts in the area (though it’s considered an up and coming resort area). It’s busy but also has black sand beaches and it’s easy to find a party. The areas biggest draw are its easy surfing waves, cheaper accommodation prices and Australian style cafes. It’s very common to find yoga here as well.

Seminyak is an area on Bali’s southern coast, next to Canggu that is known for its high-end luxury Bali resorts, villas and spas. There isn’t much to do in Seminyak as it’s an area to hang out and relax in. High-end shopping, excellent restaurants, beach clubs, bars and beach sunsets are most common as it’s popular for Bali nightlife. Surfing is also popular here. But don’t forget your wallet if you plan on visiting here!

Bukit Peninsula (Uluwatu)

The southern tip of Bali, Bukit Peninsula, is often referred to just as Uluwatu which is only one area of this area. It’s different from the rest of Bali because of its dramatic cliffs that plunge into the bluest waters found on the island. The area is well-known for its world-class surf breaks and white sand beaches, in which there are plenty to choose from. Travellers here most commonly stay at higher-end resorts or villas but it’s not hard to find cheaper accommodation and places to party with a high or low budget.

Nusa Dua is another resort area on Bali’s southern shores close to the Bukit Peninsula and opposite Uluwatu. It’s famed for its all-inclusive beach resorts which boast white sand and an 18-hole golf course. Shopping and relaxing are the main activities here but some cultural things can be done here too. It’s an excellent area for families.

Nusa Islands (Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Ceningan)

The Nusa Islands are not considered a part of Bali as they are actually three separate islands off of Bali’s southeast coast that make up the Nusa Penida District. They are extremely common to visit during a Bali trip because it takes only half an hour by speedboat to reach these stunning islands.

Nusa Penida is the largest with dramatic scenery and vibrant blue waters. Nusa Lembongan is the most popular and much smaller in size but is popular for diving and surfing. Nusa Ceningan is the smallest but is equally as beautiful.

Kuta was Bali’s first main tourist development and has since turned into a popular spot for partying and beach resorts. Travellers of all sorts come here to be entertained and catch the easy waves that are ideal for beginners. Located in central Bali, Kuta is often looked down upon from some travellers as being too touristy but it has all of the attractions that families, backpackers and luxury travellers could ever want.

Denpasar is the islands capital and often a place skipped by visitors. It’s a packed and chaotic area where over 1 million locals call home. On the east side you’ll find Sanur beach and in the centre you’ll find a hub of politics but also authentic restaurants, shopping and parks. Denpasar is also where the airport is located.

Munduk is a spot in central Bali that often goes unnoticed in travellers Bali itinerary. This mountain village is popular for its trekking through the hills and jungle surroundings. A trip to Munduk will ensure that you see waterfalls, visit lakes and escape from the sometimes overpowering heat.

Amed is made up of a long strip of local fishing villages along Bali’s less popular northern coast. If snorkelling and diving are you thing then make sure you check out the marine life off of Amed’s shores. Still relatively unknown, Amed is slowly making it’s spot on travellers radar, becoming more developed but still hanging onto its traditions. Stunningly clear waters, a beach, small town feels and the beginners of a yoga hub are all here.

Lovina is a very relaxed resort area in northern Bali that is too made up of a string of villages like Amed. It’s less touristy and quiet. A spot here is in order if you wish to get away from it all. Here you can spot dolphins, chill out and soak up the sun on the black sand beaches.

How Long to Spend in Bali?

On average, people who are vacationing in Bali spend 1 week and those who are travelling spend 2 weeks in Bali. I recommend this as the bare minimum. You will not be able to see all the places listed in this guide in 2 weeks, which is fine because some places are similar.

Have fun planning your Bali trip, I hope you fall in love with the island as much as I and so many others did!

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Bali Itinerary: Ultimate 7-Day Travel Guide

Bali is one of the most unique places on earth—a fusion of powerful spirituality, nature, activity, and entertainment. There’s something for every kind of traveler, whether it’s moments of reflection among remote rice terraces and ancient temples, reaching the peak of dramatic volcanos, surfing waves on sun-drenched shores, or enjoying the buzzing nightlife. This 7-day Bali itinerary includes highlights of the ‘Island of the Gods’, so you can experience everything Bali has to offer.

Ultimate 7-Day Bali Itinerary 

Seven days in Bali is the absolute minimum, as there is so much to see and do. Although a week may seem short, by using this step-by-step route, you can still get a real taste of the island. We’ve also included our recommendations for the best places to stay in each area, as well as transport options so you can get the most out of your time 7-day Bali itinerary.

Here are all your hotel options in Bali.

Day 1: Canggu or Seminyak

Canggu and Seminyak are Bali’s popular beach towns, less than an hour’s drive from the airport. Both spots have a lively social scene, great food, and fantastic surf and beaches.

Read: Best things to do in Canggu, Bali

Canggu is most famously known for its bohemian vibe, home to cute cafes, small boutiques, and one of the best surf scenes on the island. However, it can get pretty crowded during the high season. 

On the other hand, if you are after cheaper accommodation, you’re better off staying in Seminyak while following this Bali itinerary. This area also has more beautiful beaches and boasts some of the most popular beach clubs on the island.

Note: It is around a 20-minute drive between the two towns or a 40-minute walk along the beachfront.

What to do in the area

Beach and surf.

Canggu has some of the most popular waves in Bali! Although its black sand beaches aren’t the most beautiful, they’re a great place to watch the sun go down and see the surfers catch the last waves of the day. 

See availability for a surf lesson in Canggu

Alternatively, if you’re not that into surfing, Seminyak has white sand beaches where you can spend the day sunbathing and swimming before enjoying a spectacular sunset (one of the highlights of your 7 days in Bali!).

Beach Clubs

Canggu and Seminyak have a fantastic variety of beach clubs. Because of this, it’s an excellent place to start your 7-day Bali itinerary, particularly if you want to meet other travelers. 

In Canggu , head to La Brisa or The Lawn, which both have a chilled-out atmosphere and lovely ocean views. La Brisa also has a great Sunday farmers market, where you can browse stalls filled with fresh produce and cute handicrafts. 

In Seminyak, don’t miss a visit to Potato Head Beach Club or Mari Beach Club, which, apart from being fun places to hang out for the day, have some incredible design features!

Read: The Best things to do in Seminyak!

There is a fantastic food scene in both Canggu and Seminyak. Both towns have no shortage of trendy brunch spots and hipster cafes, while Seminyak is a little more high-end, with some spectacular restaurants right on the beach. The beach clubs in both towns are also great places to grab a poolside lunch, with ocean views and world-famous DJ sets.

Discover our favorite cafes and restaurants in Canggu

Tanah Lot Temple

Purah Tanah Lot is a stunning seaside temple in Canggu. The sacred site sits on top of a beautiful rock formation and is the best place to watch the sun go down. Come here at golden hour, and watch the waves crash beneath you and beautiful light flood the temple, which was built to honor the Balinese sea gods.

Entrance Fee: 60,000 IDR (4 USD)

How to Get to Canggu and Seminyak

Canggu and Seminyak are very close to one another, and both are easily reachable from Ngurah Rai International Airport. It will take around 35-45 minutes to drive to Seminyak and 45 minutes to an hour to reach Canggu. This is all dependent on traffic, particularly during the high season when you can expect queues. A taxi from the airport costs approximately 300,000 IDR (~ 20 USD).

Where to Stay in Canggu and Seminyak

Since you will probably spend most of your time at the beach on your Bali itinerary, it makes sense to base yourself in the coastal areas to save on transport. 

For Canggu, the most central places are Batu Bolong and Berewa, where there are loads of great cafes, restaurants, and beach clubs close by, as well as great surf spots.

Hotels in Canggu 😴

In Seminyak, stay around Jalan Kayu Aya street, also known as ‘Eat Street’, for its great variety of restaurants. This street is also just a 10-minute walk from the beach.

Hotels in Seminyak 😴

Day 2 + 3: Ubud

After a day by the beach, it’s time to head inland to check out the cultural and spiritual hub of Bali! There is so much to see and do in Ubud that it’s best to allocate at least two days on your 7-day Bali itinerary to enjoy its stunning natural scenery, fascinating culture, and lively art scene. It is also one of the more popular tourist destinations on the island, so we recommend hiring a driver for hassle-free exploring. 

Join a day tour exploring all the highlights of the Ubud are

These stunning rice terraces just 20 minutes from Ubud center are a must-see, with beautiful green valleys, towering palm trees, and multiple levels of beautifully tended paddies to explore. 

Read: The complete guide to the Tegalalang rice terraces

Ubud Art Market

The Ubud Art Market is held every day from 9 AM in the central square. The market is full of beautiful handmade goods like woven handbags, leather, and jewelry, most of which are made locally in nearby villages and make excellent souvenirs to take home.

Here are all your hotel options in Ubud

Campuhan Ridge or Rice Field Walk

One of the most popular things to do on any Bali itinerary is to visit Campuhan Ridge at sunset. This is a popular 2 km route to the next village that worms its way over the lush green hill. It is particularly popular with local people who come to exercise or walk their dogs. The place is also very sacred as it is the meeting point of two parallel rivers, and many come here to meditate or cleanse themselves in the water. 

Alternatively, take a peaceful wander through the rice fields, a 45-minute stroll where you can see the beautiful countryside and local life. Best of all, there are plenty of cafes along the route to stop and take in the serene surroundings. Read more about Ubud here .

Tirta Empul Temple

Pura Tirta Empul is an ancient Hindu water temple used for the sacred cleansing ritual known as melukat for over 1000 years. Bathing in the holy spring water is an incredibly unique experience for visitors to Ubud. The UNESCO world heritage site is one of the only temples in Bali where tourists are allowed to take part in this sacred ritual alongside locals.

Visit the Tirta Empul Temple on this cultural tour

Goa Raja Waterfall

This beautiful waterfall hidden inside a huge cave is a lovely place to spend an afternoon away from the heat. Take the short 15-minute hike to the cave along a small river, with moss-covered paths leading the way through the thick green jungle. Take a refreshing dip in this secluded spot away from the crowds, which is a 45-minute drive from the center of Ubud, and a must-see on your 7-day Bali itinerary. Book directly through our friend Yande .

Monkey Forest

The Monkey Forest is one of Bali’s most famous tourist destinations and for good reason. The sacred monkey sanctuary is home to over 700 long-tailed monkeys. They roam freely around the huge forest (a very special and spiritual place for the Balinese). You can easily spend over two hours here exploring the area, marveling at ancient trees and temples, and observing the monkeys playing. (Read more about visiting Ubud Monkey Forest on your 7 days in Bali)

How to Get from Canggu/Seminyak to Ubud

The drive from Canggu and Seminyak to Ubud takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. You can rent a scooter or a car (although traffic around Canggu is particularly bad), or you can take a taxi which will cost 10-20 USD. Using GoJek or Grab will be slightly cheaper.

Where to Stay in Ubud

There are many great accommodation options in the center of Ubud, where you are close to all the main tourist spots, shops, and restaurants. If you are looking for something a little more rural or unique, opt for something a little outside the center, close to the rice terraces, or at one of the bamboo houses in Bali .

Hotels in Ubud 😴

Day 4: Day Trip to Mount Batur from Ubud

The sacred volcanoes of Bali are a big part of what makes this island so unique, so climbing to the top of the Mount Batur volcano is a must-do on your 7-day Bali itinerary! The area around the mountain is absolutely stunning and offers a very different landscape from Ubud and the popular beach villages. Because of this, it is worth squeezing in a day trip here to see another side of the island. 

Read our complete 3-week Bali itinerary !

Sunrise or Sunset at Mt. Batur

This iconic trek to see the sun rise or set from the summit of Mount Batur is well worth the extra steps. At the peak, you will be met by spectacular views over the whole of Bali and incredible pink and gold colors washing over jungle valleys, tiny villages, and the amazing black lava fields of the volcano. It’s recommended to take this tour with a guide .

Natural Hot Springs

After a long hike, what’s better than a hot bath? These volcanic hot springs by the lake are geothermally heated and are a great place to soak your tired muscles while you take in the stunning views over shimmering Lake Batur. The outdoor infinity pools are the perfect place to relax for an hour or two and give you the chance to warm up in the cooler mountain air.

Coffee Farm

The Mount Batur region has a cooler climate and volcanic soil – which means delicious coffee! There are lots of plantations in the area, many of which offer tours so you can taste locally-grown brews. (Please skip the Luwak coffee as this is animal cruelty – see here )

How to Get from Ubud to Mount Batur

The best way to visit Mount Batur on your Bali itinerary is by booking a day trip with a tour company or hiring a private driver . This will include an experienced guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as transport between several spots in the Mount Batur area. This all-inclusive option takes the hassle out of the trip, so you can just enjoy the spectacular scenery.

Alternatively, you can rent a scooter yourself or hire a driver in Bali if you want more flexibility. The drive from Ubud takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Day 5: Day Trip to Nusa Penida (West Side)

Nusa Penida is the biggest of the Nusa Islands, an island paradise with crystal clear water, dramatic limestone cliffs, and stunning ocean views. Once the most underdeveloped of the islands, it is quickly gaining popularity among tourists and is one of the must-see destinations on your 7 days in Bali.

On this 7-day Bali itinerary, there is only time for a day trip, so it’s best to stick to the west side of the island close to the harbor. However, if you do have more time, it is worth staying a night or two to make the most of this serene island paradise. Join a day tour or hire a car once you reach Nusa Penida to explore all its hidden gems. 

Paluang Cliff & Kelingking Point

These are two spectacular viewpoints around 30 minutes from the harbor, which are your first impression of the island’s beauty! With expansive blue ocean, rocky headlands, and lush green jungle laid out before you, these secluded spots high on the clifftop are a great place to catch your breath and take in the incredible views.

Read: Tips for visiting Kelingking Beach

Broken Beach & Angel’s Billabong

These are two of the most beautiful and unmissable natural sights on Nusa Penida Island. Broken Beach has a rocky archway that acts as a natural bridge over the sea and has created a perfect circular bay; it’s an amazing spot for photos, as well as possible manta ray sightings!

Further up is Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool created by the tides, with crystal clear water and stunning ocean views.

Good to know: It is not recommended to enter the natural pool, as dangerous waves can suddenly crash over the side, even at low tide.

Crystal Bay

For the rest of the day, relax and unwind at Crystal Bay, a stunning white sandy beach lined with swaying palm trees, a beautiful green jungle backdrop, and rocky islands out in the water. This is the perfect place for an afternoon of sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. Plus, you can rent umbrellas and enjoy a few drinks at the few beach bars on the shoreline. Make sure to also keep an eye out for turtles and dolphins!

Visit all of these highlights of Nusa Penida on a day tour from Bali

How to Get from Ubud to Nusa Penida

You can book a taxi and ferry combination trip from Ubud, which takes around two and a half hours and costs roughly 15 USD. 

Book directly through our friend Yande or Book your ferry from Bali to Nusa Penida here

Alternatively, if you book a day tour, this will include hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as all your transport around the island.  This is a very convenient option for those following a shorter Bali itinerary (7 days).

Sleep in Uluwatu

Take the ferry back to the Sanur port, then head to Uluwatu down the coast – the final destination on your Bali itinerary!

Here are all your hotel options in Uluwatu

Day 6: Uluwatu

Uluwatu is a chilled-out surfers’ paradise on the south coast of Bali, far from the crowds of Canggu, Seminyak, and Kuta. The off-the-beaten-path destination is the perfect place to spend your last few days in Bali , surrounded by stunning white beaches and dramatic limestone cliffs.

Beaches in Uluwatu, Bali

Uluwatu boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Bali , most of which are not too crowded. This area also has some of the best waves in the world, so it is a great place to pick up a board and spend some time on the water—the perfect way to wind down your 7 days in Bali.

Read: 17 Best things to do in Uluwatu!

Kecak Fire Dance

The Kecak Fire Dance is a traditional Balinese ceremony that takes place every evening at sunset on Uluwatu Cliff. This is an unforgettable experience, and in our opinion, it is the best thing to do in Uluwatu. Local dancers tell stories through theater, movement, and song at the clifftop amphitheater of Uluwatu Temple, with an incredible ocean backdrop and stunning sunset vistas, and of course, a fire show! 

Buy your tickets to the Kecak Fire Dance in advance

How to Get from Nusa Penida to Uluwatu

Most boats from Nusa Penida go to Sanur, which can take anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on which service you take. From Sanur to Uluwatu, it is just under an hour’s drive. It’s best to book a tour for Nusa Penida, which will include pick and drop-off at your hotel. Book directly through our friend Yande

Where to Stay in Uluwatu on your Bali Itinerary

The best area to stay in Uluwatu is Pecatu, which is the most central, meaning you can get to most places within a 20-minute scooter ride. Choose accommodation close to Bingin Beach and Padang-Padang Beach, which are both beautiful spots for sunbathing and swimming if you’re short on time.

Hotels in Uluwatu 😴

Day 8 – Fly Out

After an action-packed week, take the last day of your Bali 7-day itinerary to relax and get ready for your flight home. From Uluwatu to the airport is just a 40-minute drive, so if you have an afternoon or evening flight, you can still enjoy most of the day here before heading off.

How to Get from Uluwatu to the Airport

The journey from Uluwatu to the airport takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. The best option is to book a taxi from your hotel or hostel, which will cost approximately 15 USD. Alternatively, if you’ve hired a car or motorcycle for your 7 days in Bali, you can simply drop it off at the airport before your flight.

How to Visit Bali in 7 Days

Denpasar-Ngurah Rai International Airport is where you will land when you first arrive in Bali. It’s located on the southern tip of the island, close to Canggu, Seminyak, and Uluwatu, making it a convenient place to start your Bali itinerary. If you are already traveling around Indonesia, you also have the option to take the ferry from Jakarta, Lombok, or the Gili Islands, among other places.

Getting Around Bali

Although Bali is relatively small, and driving distances can look very short on the map, be aware that traffic can increase traveling times significantly, especially during the high season (July and August).

By Private Driver

Renting a private car and driver is one of the best ways to follow a Bali itinerary, especially for day trips where you want to visit multiple destinations. The driver will wait for you at each place, and the price is set for the day, so there are no hidden costs!

Hiring a driver costs 550000 IDR to 1500000 IDR (~ 35-100 USD) per day and takes away the hassle of navigating, parking, and getting fuel.

When following this 7-day Bali itinerary, we advise you to book all transfers at once with a driver. Most people end up leaving Bali with the driver as their new friend!

By Motorbike

One of the best and most flexible ways to travel around Bali is by motorcycle. That way, you can explore the island at your own pace, and you can hop off whenever you want to take pictures or stop for lunch. Additionally, renting a scooter is affordable, with daily rates starting from as little as ~4 – 10 USD per day. 

The downside is that the streets will be very busy, especially during the high season. If you are not that confident on a scooter, you might prefer an alternative form of transport for your 7 days in Bali. 

Renting a car is a slightly safer option than a motorbike and an excellent choice for a small group with lots of luggage. Car rental costs around 30-60 USD daily and requires an international driver’s permit. Again, the roads can get busy during the high season, so if you are not a confident driver, consider hiring a private driver or taking taxis. 

By Taxi 

Taxis are an affordable and convenient way to get around for short distances on your Bali 8-day itinerary. However, always check that the meter is on or agree to a price beforehand! An even cheaper option is ride-sharing apps like Grab or Go-Jek, but these aren’t allowed in some areas.

For longer trips and for traveling between popular tourist attractions, it is better and cheaper to rent a private car and driver for the day. 

Read: Hiring a driver in Bali (all you need to know)

Booking Tours

Booking a tour is a good option for specific trips on your Bali 7-day itinerary. For example, the sunrise trek to Mount Batur or the day trip to Nusa Penida . Everything is included in the tour, including hotel pick-up and drop-off. It also normally includes a guide who can provide fascinating local insight into the area and culture that you wouldn’t get otherwise.

Our Favorite Accommodations 

Bali has loads of amazing accommodation options, from local homestays and lively budget hostels to stunning villas and luxury five-star resorts! Read about our favorite places to stay in Bali . Here are some of our favorites from every destination on this Bali itinerary:

• Canggu : Amar Boutique , Cali Villas , Guru Canggu
• Seminyak : The Legian , Elysian Boutique , Villa Air
• Ubud : Kayon Jungle Resort , Ubud Valley Boutique , Sapodilla Ubud
• Uluwatu : Padang Padang Inn , Bukal Sari , The Elementum

How Much Does 7 Days in Bali Cost?

The cost of your trip will depend on what time of year you visit, which part of the country you’re in, and what you like to spend your money on! However, Bali is generally a very affordable travel destination, and if you go outside of the high season months of July and August, you can find cheaper accommodation in most places. 

Costs of Traveling in Bali

Travel on a budget in Bali, from $230 − $430 USD weekly per person, mid-range $660 − $1020 USD, and high-end from $1040 − $1380 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $50 − $100 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $15 − $30 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $40 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $30 − $60 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $5 − $8 USD
• Activities: $5 − $20 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit Bali for 7 Days

The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season between April and October, when the weather is at its best for sightseeing, beach days, surfing, and diving. We recommend avoiding the high season of July and August when it gets very crowded on the island with local and international tourists, and prices go up.

The wet season is much quieter, accommodation is cheaper, and the countryside is lush and beautiful. However, you should be prepared for at least a few hours of rain a day!

Do I Need a Visa for 7 Days in Bali?

Most people will need a tourist visa to enter Bali. You can get a Visa on Arrival (VOA) when you land at the airport, which is valid for 30 days and costs 500,000 IDR (~ 33 USD). To avoid long queues at the airport, apply electronically at least 48 hours before you arrive. You can read about the full visa process here .

Get your visa for Bali in advance

Travel Insurance for Bali

Travel insurance is an essential purchase before any trip away, however short. Insurance will give you peace of mind during your Bali itinerary and can save you money in the long run if anything unexpected happens while you are away. You can buy single-trip insurance very cheaply, and there are plenty of options if you are traveling long-term, too. 

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Bali trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

Is it Safe in Bali?

Bali is generally a very safe place to travel and one of Indonesia’s safest destinations. There is a small level of petty crime, such as phone theft or pickpocketing, particularly in the more touristy areas, so just be sensible and wary of your belongings while out and about. 

Another thing to be aware of is volcanic activity. Although an eruption is very unlikely, check the local news or government website for warnings before attempting the hike up Mount Batur. 

Read: Top travel safety tips!

What to Pack for a 7-Day Bali Itinerary

There are two seasons in Bali, the wet and the dry, so your packing list may change depending on the time of year. However, the average temperature in Bali is a mild 79 °F (26 °C) all year round, so you don’t need to pack too much!

Bali Packing List

• Layers – Bringing different layers of clothing is a good idea, as temperatures can change when heading up into the mountains, especially at night. 
• Universal travel plug – Useful for any trip to ensure all your electronics can be charged.
• Raincoat – In the rainy season, this is an essential item in Bali! It may still come in handy during the dry season when there are occasional showers. 
• Hat – Essential for keeping the sun off your face while sightseeing, hiking, or simply sunbathing on the beach!
• Good footwear – Good hiking boots or sturdy sneakers/sandals are a must for your 7 days in Bali. A lot of the country is still unpaved, and you will need good shoes for hiking in the mountains or the rice paddies.

• Sarong – Most sacred temples require everyone to cover up their legs out of respect. There is often an option to rent these, but it’s good to have one packed just in case, even if it’s just to cover up from the sun!
• Microfibre towel – A small, lightweight towel is great for beach days and waterfall trips on your Bali itinerary, as they fit easily into a small bag and dry very quickly.  
• Camera – You need something to capture all the incredible sights – consider a waterproof camera or a GoPro for snorkeling and diving or for that perfect waterfall shot.
• Power bank – Helpful for day trips, mountain hikes, and power outages, a power bank is a great backup to have on hand.  Get one here .
• Small backpack – A small day bag or backpack is convenient for day trips, so you can just bring the essentials when following this Bali itinerary.

Packing Sustainable Items

• Insect repellent – Choose a non-toxic insect repellent that isn’t made with harmful chemicals like DEET.
• Sunscreen – Opt for a reef-safe sunscreen that is non-toxic and helps to protect marine life.
• Purifying water bottle – Unfortunately, tap water is unsafe to drink in Bali and may lead to the infamous ‘Bali Belly’.
• Stainless steel straw – Great for happy hour or beach-side coconuts, carrying a small stainless steel straw around with you will save on plastic.
• Reusable bags – Say no to plastic bags at local markets by keeping a few reusable bags on hand for your 7 days in Bali.

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15 Best Things To Do in Ubud, Bali

Taman ujung: visit the beautiful water palace in bali, tips for the most beautiful places on nusa penida, bali.

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Bali Travel Guide: The Ultimate Guide For A First Time Visitor

Have you ever dreamt of visiting an island that has it all— stunning beaches, lush greenery, amazing food, and friendly locals? If so, Bali is a beautiful paradise to visit. Every part of this land is deeply rooted with rich culture and tradition. This Indonesian island has something for everyone, and is a great destination for a relaxing vacation or an adventurous getaway. If you have some dream places to visit in Bali , you can customize your  Bali trip package .

Bali is an Indonesian island located in the westernmost end of the Lesser Sunda Islands, lying between Java to the west and Lombok to the east. Bali is 5780 km wide and features more than 10,000 temples and over 85 islands. It is one of the country's 33 provinces with the provincial capital at Denpasar towards the south of the island. Given its stunning natural surroundings and exotic beaches, the island draws up to 7 million foreign visitors each year.

Bali is a cultural melting pot, influenced by Hinduism and Buddhism. This makes for a fascinating cultural experience, to gain an insight about different religions and traditions. Every temple in Bali, whether it is the sea temple of Tanah Lot, the beautiful Besakih temple, or the enchanting Uluwatu temple, demonstrates the strong Balinese cultural influence. Bali's culture is unique and fascinating, and it is definitely worth experiencing.

Also Read: How to Reach Bali

It is no wonder that this Indonesian gem is a beautiful island paradise, giving spectacular natural beauty with a calm way of life. The place is home to some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world. From the world-famous Kuta Beach to the secluded Lombok beaches, the beaches in Bali are simply breathtaking to witness. With its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and exciting attractions, Bali is an unforgettable destination that should never be missed. 

Come to Bali and have the time of your life. From exhilarating Mount Batur hiking to exploring the Monkey Forest, Bali is a hub to endless fun and entertainment. There is so much to do here, from surfing and scuba diving to exploring ancient temples and hiking through stunning rice terraces. And of course, don't forget about the amazing food and nightlife. With so many mouth watering cuisines to choose from, you will be spoilt for choice. Whether you are looking for a relaxed vacation or an action-packed adventure, Bali has something for everyone. Last but not least, the people of Bali is incredibly friendly and welcoming. It's great if you are planning for a B ali family vacation !

Getting Around Bali

Public Transport

Traveling in bus is the best way to get around Bali. The tickets are cheaper and they are more reliable. It's a great choice if you're planning for cheap Bali packages . One of the popular bus service providers is Perama. They operate between all of the popular destinations in Bali and it is advised to book one day well in advance.

Taxi & Airport transfer

The most popular taxi service provider in Bali is Blue Bird Taxi. The cars are modern and they come with well-trained, decent English speaking drivers. For instant rides and advance bookings, call the company directly. Airport transfers are also offered by Blue Bird Taxis. Additionally, there is an air-conditioned bus service called Trans Sarbagita which helps in airport transfer.

Transport & city passes

Transport passes are the effective way to get around Bali at a cheaper price. The popular shuttle-service provider of Kura-Kura offers two types of passes: Kura Kura trip ticket and Kura Kura day pass. Based on your frequency of travel, you can choose between any of the two.

Driving & Car rental

Renting a car or a motorbike also allows you to explore Bali at your own pace. They are comparatively expensive than public transportation. And it is important to keep in mind the road rules and safety measures pertaining to Bali. Traffic in Bali is considered to be unpleasant and hence it will be wise to plan each day accordingly. Alternatively, you can hire a driver while renting the car.

Suggested Read: Best Things to do in Bali

What to Eat & Drink in Bali

Following the indigenous traditions, the Balinese Cuisine uses a lot of spices, fresh vegetables, meat, and fish. Though highly influenced by the Indonesian regional cuisine along with the Indian and the Chinese, the culinary traditions in Bali is a bit different from the rest of Indonesia.

Bebuk Betutu: Side Dishes are served in small portions before serving Nasi Padang, with rice prepared in different ways.

Mie Goreng: A spicy thin fried noodle dish with a combination of ingredients.

Arak: Balinese liquor made by distilling coconut palm wine, or wine made with black rice and coconut milk.

Teh Panas: A refreshing tea that is taken sans milk. Ask for the special ginger infused tea!

Pisang Goreng: Plantains covered in batter and fried deeply - consumed as an all time snack in Indonesia.

Bali Guling: Also known as suckling pig, it is stuffed of a spicy mix containing coriander seeds, lemongrass, pepper and garlic, and is roasted.

Balinese wine: A wine made from home-grown grapes in Bali - rose, red and white are popular varieties.

Kopi Bali: Finest of Indonesian coffee brewed to perfection. Great for when you need a caffeine hit. 

Check Out:   How to Reach Bali

Bali Travel Wisdom

Culture & etiquette.

Bali over the years has become a popular destination for travellers.Most places in Bali such as resorts and beaches do not have a strict dress code. Bali has predominantly a mix of Hindu and Muslim culture, that demands that visitors dress modestly in and around the temples and cultural centres. If you are dressed in shorts when visiting these places, ensure you carry a sarong or get one nearby.A namaste or greeting with folded hands is a most respectful way to greet people in Bali.

Major events & Public Holidays

The Bali Arts Festival is held in June, a must visit for the culture lovers for its performances and parades. Yet another festival you may catch a glimpse of in June and July is the Bali Kite Festival. Bali's most important festival is Galingan in April that will give a peek into their rituals.

Road rules and driving license

Indonesia follows left-hand side driving. Travellers require an International Driving License or a local Indonesian temporary license called SIM. While you can rent vehicles in Bali, the traffic conditions may not be very easy to drive in. Helmets are a must-have when riding two wheelers. If you are renting a two wheeler, remember that the Balinese don't like to honk! Check if your rental vehicle has been insured. While renting cars is possible, it is hassle free to rent a vehicle with a driver.

Know your Indonesian

Balinese and Indonesian are the languages spoken in Bali by the locals there. Owing to the wide expatriate and tourist community in Bali, the locals are quite comfortable with English which leaves no language barrier. Fun fact: Don't be surprised if are welcomed with ' Hey mate' as every year 600.000 to 700.000 Australians visit Bali as it's a popular tourist location among them! 

Welcome - Selamat Datang

Hello - Halo

Sorry - Maaf

Thank You - Terima kasih

How its going? - Bagaimana hal itu terjadi?

See you again - Sampai jumpa lagi

Bali Survival Guide

Electricity

• The power sockets in Bali are of Type C and Type F.
• The appliances used in India will require a power plug adapter for these socket types.
• The voltage here is 220 volts at 50 Hz and it is the same as that we have in India

Sim & Data Roaming

• When traveling to Bali, it is best suggested to bring an unlocked phone which is not bound to a single carrier.
• The major operators in Bali are Telkomsel (Simpati), Indosat, and XL.
• Get the Indosat Prepaid SIM Package at IDR 45.000 with 10 GB LTE Data Package.

Cash & Cards

• The local currency used in Bali is Indonesian Rupiah.
• A single meal cost for a person will be around 25500.00 Rp which is close to Rs 150
• Rp. 10, 000 - Rp. 50, 000 are sufficient for your daily transactions which includes your meal & other personal expenses
• We’d advise you to carry USDs while travelling to Bali. On reaching the Bali airport, you can exchange the USDs to IDRs.

Health & Insurance

• Although Insurance is not mandatory for Bali, it is advisable to carry one. While Bali has many clinics, the public hospitals are available only in regions like Denpasar, Kuta, Ubud, Nusa Dua and Seminyak.
• If purchasing medicines, prefer the Kimia Farma chain as they have fair prices and reliable stock.
• It is recommended you carry sunblock, wide brimmed hats and shades while stepping out in the sun. If you want to avoid the sun, avoid the beaches between 10 am and 2 pm - it is hottest then.
• Fair warning, there are many mosquitos in Bali. Protect yourself against them by carrying mosquito repellant.
• If you are bringing a sizeable amount of medicines, carry a doctor's certificate to avoid problems with the Customs.  

Emergency Contacts in Bali

Embassy of India in Bali

Jl. Raya Puputan No.163, Renon, Denpasar Sel., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80235, Indonesia

Ph no: +62-361-259502, Email: [email protected]

Police: 112, Ambulance: 118, Fire department: 113

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The ultimate guide to exploring Bali, Indonesia

Updated On 26th February, 2024

Bali is one of the most beautiful destinations in the world, it really is. Bali is an island that holds so many beautiful components beyond its wild lush tropics and beaches. I’m going to go through everything in this Bali guide. The local Balinese people are equally as treasured and are one of the reasons that this island feels so familiar every time I step foot back onto it.

I’ve visited Bali on four separate occasions over the last 6 years, watching word catch on and tourism increase in particular areas. I know there are so many rumours that Bali has been ‘ruined’ and that ‘it’s too touristy’ but I beg to differ.

Western culture is certainly changing things in areas like Seminyak and Canggu, but the stunning roots of Balinese culture still hold strong.

If you’re planning to head to Bali, take some time to explore beyond the Western resorts and establishments. Speak to the locals. Go on a road trip and discover some waterfalls. It’s a beautiful, beautiful island and I think it’s up to us to give back to the locals, to play a part in their community and not  just  take from their beautiful island.

EXPLORE BALI ON MY BLOG HERE

Other travel guides we think you will love…

• The best things to do in Bali
• The best time to go to Bali: Which month is best?
• Where to stay in Bali – see Bali on a map
• The best wellness things to do in Bali: The best retreats, cafes and spas
• The best places for brunch and coffee in Uluwatu, Bali
• A guide to exploring Ubud, Bali
• An Uluwatu Bali travel guide: The best things to do, see and eat

Where is Bali?

Bali is one of the most popular islands in Indonesia, located in South East Asia.

How much money should you save for Bali?

Bali is definitely not as cheap as it used to be, but when compared to the likes of Europe and America,  life here really does come come at a fraction of the price.

Bali is definitely a great option if you are looking for a gorgeous tropical holiday, without the price tag of the Maldives.

Check out my comprehensive guide to budgeting for Bali here , and you’ll be able to get an idea of just how much you’ll need to save and how much things cost out on the island.

When should you go to Bali? What’s the weather like in Bali?

In Bali, you can expect a tropical warm climate all year round. Rainfall is highest (rainy season) between November and March. The most popular time and drier months to come are June to August.

Of the four times I’ve explored in Bali, three of them have been between the months of December and March, during the rainy season. Should the ‘rainy season’ stop you from coming? Absolutely not. It feels hotter and more tropical for sure but the rain doesn’t ‘ruin’ your holiday. Rainfall is often short, it’s sometimes heavy but it passes. It’s warm rain and the rain is the reason the island is so lush! I love the odd day here in my wooden hut where I’m reading my book to the sound of the rain. On my last trip, I’d say we had 2 full days of rain and 7-8 overcast afternoons and showers in nearly 6 weeks!

Top tip: Don’t  always  trust your weather app!  The weather forecast often states tropical thunderstorms for Bali but quite often it can be said that whilst you’re sat on a beach with clear blue skies.

Still not sure when the best time to visit Bali is?  Check out this blog post.

How do you find accommodation in Bali?

Whilst Bali most certainly can be done on the cheaper side of things, there is definitely still a presence of your 5 star western resorts, should you seek them.  Booking.com  is always a great option to see what’s available in the area and to give you a good idea of the cheap and the luxury options available.

If you’re looking for some super unique and gorgeous experiences in Bali,  the Airbnb options  there are  out of this world . Split the cost of a villa between you and your friends and it works out a similar cost to that of a hostel. The value for money is madness. A lot of the villas come with personal cooks and drivers.

Get £15 of your first Airbnb stay here

If you are backpacking or you’re just an all round bargain hunter, then hostels or, more common here in Bali, Homestays are going to be your new best friend. A homestay is basically an accommodation run by locals. It may be multiple villas, a b+b or even a spare room in a house. They are dotted all over the streets – you really won’t struggle to find one. A few of them are advertised on the internet but a lot of them aren’t.

See my bucket list of Airbnb stays in Bali  here.

Not sure where to stay in Bali?  Check out this blog post to help you plan your Bali itinerary!

Areas in Bali to explore…

Perhaps  kickstart your Bali adventure inspiration  by popping over to my  ’10 amazing things to do in Bali’ blog post here.

It’s really hard to recommend a ‘single’ destination to head to in Bali, particularly as things change so quickly. When I first explored in 2013 I fell in love with Seminyak and now I totally avoid it when exploring Bali. That view changed in just 11 months and I returned rather taken aback by how much had been built and how crazy busy it was.

What I would say is, if you’re using travel blogs, make sure they are up to date… hence why I’m doing a new one now, in 2020.

The island is filled with so many gems beyond the ‘main areas. So whilst the below suggestions are absolutely valid and can cater for the most beautiful of stays, I highly suggest taking time, if you have it, to explore and go beyond the resorts whilst on the island.

Each corner of Bali offers something different and I’ve been to a fair few corners now so I’m going to go through each one and tell you just what you can expect there…

https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/embed?mid=1dpps-U8GK6A7NM28bHDkmOp1hNY0AGHb

Ubud is known as the  cultural hub of Bali with temples, holistic centres, yoga studios and local markets  on every street corner. With access to locally grown produce of every variety, it is here in Ubud that the vegan and raw dining culture was born. The food and drink options are incredible, as well as the options to explore the famous rice fields, the nearby Mt.Batur and the legendary Monkey Forest.

See my ultimate guide to Ubud here.

If you’re looking for wellness things to do in Bali,  check out this blog post.

As a result of the tourism takeover in Seminyak, the lime light seems to have now shifted over to Canggu, or  ‘the gu’  as locals call it. Canggu is the younger sibling of Seminyak, located just north of Seminyak on the west coast. Canggu is one of the  hottest spots on the island with surfers . If you go, you’ll most likely end up with a cocktail or two at Old Man’s as you watch the sun descend beyond the horizon.

See my complete guide to Canggu here .

Here are the best places for brunch and coffee in Canggu, Bali.

Considered one of the sleepier towns and host to many family orientated hotels, Sanur tends to be the underdog with young travellers. I absolutely love it here; it’s the perfect place for a more laid back Balinese experience. Plus, you are right on the gateway to the nearby islands of Nusa Archipelago, Lombok, Flores, Komodo and the Gili’s, all of which you can explore in a day trip or two.

See my complete guide to Sanur here .

Here are my  top tips for planning and researching your next adventure.

Uluwatu is home to some of the best surf breaks in Bali and to some of the most consistent, sought after reef breaks in the world. Located on the south of the island on the Western cliffs of the Bukit Peninsula, Uluwatu is where you’ll also find the Pura Luhur temple and some of the most exclusive hotels and restaurants on the island.

See my complete guide to Uluwatu  here.

Here are the best places for brunch and coffee in Uluwatu, Bali.

Seminyak is one of the closest towns to Denpasar airport (the main airport on the island) and is home to the likes of W Hotel. There’s only a few seconds per minute where you’ll be without the sound of the taxi horns. It’s busy to say the least but  the magic of the sunsets is undeniable . There are some absolutely delicious cafes and beach club vibes here too. I would suggest only staying a night or two if you decide to come here. In fact, Seminyak is perhaps a good place to kick start your adventure. If you’re backpacking – definitely check out my stay at  Umahku Hostel.

See my complete guide to Seminyak here.

Kuta is a pretty party orientated town. The energy centres around the Sky Garden which is a multi story club serving all-you-can-eat BBQs on the rooftop. I’m sure there are many that this would suit, but considering I had travelled from the other side of the world, I was looking for the magical, laid back island beachy vibes. Rumour has it that Kuta is the ‘Magaluf’ equivalent for Australians. Cheap flights, lots of booze and a nice climate. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!

Here are my  top tips for staying safe during solo travel.

Nusa Dua is an area of Bali with luxury 5* resorts that back onto the white sands of Nusa Dua beach. The hotels and restaurants are all at Western prices – even the water activities are on the pricey side. 

When staying in Nusa Dua, the best sunset is viewed at Jimbaran Beach where the sun sets into the sea (it doesn’t at Nusa as the coast is facing East). Jimbaran is worth a visit in itself. It’s known as  the place  to get your dose of fresh fish on the island. Kick back in one of the beach front restaurants here for sunset dins.

Here are my  22 top tips for travelling in Southeast Asia.

I haven’t actually explored much of the East, but no doubt at some point I will return to Bali. When I do, a road-trip up the east coast is at the top of my list. There are some gorgeous temples located up the coast alongside rice paddies spilling over countryside left, right and centre. Go and check them out for me and let me know what’s good.

Homesickness doesn’t have to ruin your trip!  Here are my top tips for overcoming homesickness when you’re travelling.

The first time I ever visited Bali we met a local in Kuta and persuaded him to take us to see some of Bali’s finest offerings. He took us to the very north of Bali, to Lovina, where we ate at a local warung before waking up at 4am and heading out to watch the dolphins at sunrise. It was magic.

Check out:  Banjar hotsprings, Banyumala waterfall, Bedugul, Banjar, and Sekumpul waterfalls.

I recently returned to the north to experience Spa Village Tembok (see my review  here ) which was just so relaxed. The North is completely untouched when compared to the rest of the island so if you’re looking for a more peaceful secluded experience… this could be a good stop off for you.

If you aren’t sure about whether you should solo travel, this is  how solo travel changed me and why I recommend it to everyone.

Basic itineraries for Bali…

A 1 week bali itinerary:.

• Spend three days in  Ubud  (take one morning to hike  Mt. Batur  at sunrise, followed by the hot springs)
• Head to  Sanur , hire a moped and float around the east coast for a couple of days. Serangen is an awesome spot to check out if you want to dive into the local culture.
• Get a boat over to the Nusa archipelago and kick back and relax in paradise for two or three days.

See my guide to Nusa Lembongan here.

See my guide to the Gili islands here.

A 2-week Bali itinerary:

• Spend four days in Ubud (take one morning to hike Mt. Batur at sunrise, followed by the hot springs)
• Take a day trip to Uluwatu or Canggu and learn how to surf!
• Hire a moped and float around the east and north coast for a few days. Check out the dolphins in Lovina! Serangen is also an awesome spot to check out if you want to dive into the local culture.
• Get a boat over to the Nusa archipelago and Gili Islands and kick back and relax in paradise for three days.
• Spend your last few days on Lombok.

Extending your trip beyond Bali..

Think about visiting…

• The Komodo Islands
• Nusa Lembongan.  Check out my guide  here  and my experience diving with Manta Rays  here .

If you love the water, check out  this post for how to get PADI certified! 

Here are  12 ways to improve your travel photography!

EXPLORE INDONESIA ON MY BLOG HERE

My top tips and travel hacks for Bali…

There are certainly some things worth knowing before heading out on your adventure to this Indonesian paradise. For example: Bali Belly. Bali belly is an unpleasant reaction a lot of international guests have to the local water here on the island. It is advised to not drink from the taps here but sometimes we accidentally do or food has traces of it and we get a poorly tummy. I’ve had it twice. Not fun.

Some Bali top tips from the Global Travellers family…

1. ‘If you do take taxis, take Bluebird taxis  (they’re a light blue colour with a blue bird on the roof). They are the safest and will always run the meter.’

Courtney  from  courtingthecoast.com  

2. ‘Download go jek, which is like an Indonesian Uber type app.  You can book cars, motorbike taxis and also it’ll tell you the approximate cost from place to place. That way you know roughly how much alternative taxis should be charging. It’s a useful tool to ensure you aren’t getting ripped off.’

3.  ‘ Attend a Balinese ceremony at an ashram or a retreat . It was the most magical experience I had. There are many different ones of course. At the one I attended we had a Guru (whose speech just blew me away) and musicians. We danced and sang and it was just incredible.’

Eliza  from  elitravelbug.com

4. ‘Bring red cordial and drink a glass a day.  My parents swear by this to help prevent Bali Belly.’

Courtney from  courtingthecoast.com

See my top tips and travel hacks for your adventure in Bali  here.

Have you been to Bali?

What were your favourite spots? I’d love to know!

Love as always + happy adventuring,

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

I can’t do this without you.

Pin and save this blog post for later…

IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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Exotic Java and Bali

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Strolling past lush rice paddies, walking up steaming volcanoes and venturing through ancient Hindu temples, we discover the best of Java and Bali on this tour taking in the highlights of Indonesia.

• Yogyakarta - Explore the cultural heartland of Java by cyclo-rickshaw
• Mount Bromo - Witness the sunrise from the peaks of surrounding volcanoes
• Ubud - Walk through rice paddies and discover the 'Monkey Temple' in this bohemian town.

Included meals

Breakfast: 13

Explore Tour Leader

Accommodation

10 nights comfortable hotel

1 nights simple hotel

2 nights comfortable lodge

Group Size:

Trip maximum 16 Explore Average 11

Itineraries on some departure dates may differ, please select the itinerary that you wish to explore.

Our tour starts late afternoon in Yogyakarta. Situated almost exactly halfway along the length of Java, in an area considered to be the heartland of the Javanese, Yogakarta is home to some of the island's oldest traditions and blessed with a rich, fertile soil from the volcanic ash. It is the cultural capital of Java, with a real mixture of cultural influences, including Hindu and Buddhist temples, dating from the 8th century, Islamic Palaces from the 18th century and Dutch colonial architecture that harks back to the days when the Netherlands held much of Java in its imperialistic grip.

For those arriving on time our Leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 6pm for the welcome meeting and for those that wish, there is the chance to go out for dinner. There are no other activities planned today, so you are free to arrive in Yogyakarta at any time. If you would like to receive an airport transfer today, you will need to arrive into Yogyakarta International Airport, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from our hotel. Should you miss the welcome meeting, your Leader will inform you of any essential information over breakfast on day two.

If your flight arrives earlier in the day, perhaps you might choose to visit Kraton Palace, wonder down Malioboro Street and try any of the fantastic street vendors, or explore a former colonial fortress, which now houses Fort Vredeburg Museum.

Accommodation:

Adhisthana Hotel Yogyakarta (or similar)

Grade: Comfortable Hotel

Single room available

Swimming pool available, meals provided: none.

This morning we enjoy a fun tour of Yogyakarta by 'becaks', a cycle rickshaw where the driver sits and peddles behind the passenger. The ride will take us to Taman Sari Water Castle. Built by Java's first ruling sultan, Mangkubumi, the palace lies at the heart of a walled city that houses tens of thousands of people, whilst parts of the outer walls are still occupied by Javanese royalty.

Later we drive out of the city, heading for the Hindu temple complex of the Prambanan Plain. This remarkable area is home to an incredible array of temples and palaces from the 8th and 9th centuries. We stay here to watch the sunset before returning to Yogyakarta.

Meals Provided: Breakfast

This morning we head west to Borobodur, the largest and most impressive Buddhist monument in the southern hemisphere. Constructed in the 8th century this incredible monument, a petrified vision of the Buddhist cosmos, was lost for 900 years when Mount Merapi erupted and covered Borobodur in a layer of volcanic ash. The structure itself is immense, a gigantic Buddhist stupa constructed from two million blocks that covers an area of 200sq metres and rises some 34.5 metres above the Kedu Plain. Older by nearly half a century than the site at Prambanan, Borobodur is believed to have been built on the top of the foundations for what was originally a temple dedicated to Shiva, abandoned by the Hindu Sanjayas when their Buddhist rivals the Saliendras swept through the Malay peninsula during the 8th century.

A combination of earthquakes, subsidence and the mass migration of the Javanese to the east of the island saw the temple abandoned sometime during the 9th century, to be rediscovered again later by the British. Substantial work has been carried out to salvage the exquisite carvings and designs that adorn the structure and we can wander through the site today and marvel at the incredible detail of its narrative panels, which detail everything from Buddhist doctrines to the daily life of the Javanese.

We return to Yogyakarta later in the afternoon. There is the opportunity to view a performance of Ramayana Ballet, an adaptation of the Hindu epic in the evening.

Leaving Yogyakarta this morning we make the short transfer to the station where we board the express train to the Javan city of Malang . The Malioboro Express takes around four hours to rumble through the heart of Java, sweeping past lush rice paddies, rural villages and through lively provincial towns that buzz with daily life. The carriages are air-conditioned with comfortable reclinable seats, power sockets and there are toilets at the end of each carriage.

The train is due into the city of Malang in the late afternoon. After some free time to freshen up, we head out this evening for a short orientation tour of Malang's charming colonial architecture, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

Regent's Park Hotel (or similar)

We make an early start this morning to visit the flower market in Malang before driving around 4 hours to Cemoro Lawang to bring us closer to Mount Bromo. We must change our vehicle for the last part of our journey as we head off the main road. We arrive in time for a late lunch break, after which our tour leader will take us for a three hour trek through the Sand Sea towards Mount Bromo. An early night is recommended in order to fully enjoy the rewarding Mount Bromo experience first thing in the morning.

Lava View Lodges (or similar)

Grade: Simple Hotel

Today, in the early hours of the morning, we take an excursion, by jeep and on foot, to the slopes of Mount Penanjakan (2770m) to marvel at the spectacular views of Mount Bromo crater at sunrise. We drive across the Sand Sea of the caldera towards the crater itself, admiring the beautiful pink glow of our surroundings as the sun slowly rises. Volcanoes have mystified man since the earliest of times, and with this breathtaking scene laid out before us this morning it is easy to understand why.

Mid morning we will continue our journey to Kalibaru.

Overall driving time approx. 7 hours.

Kalibaru Cottages (or similar)

We set off this morning to explore the plantation's extensive grounds on foot. This area is known locally to produce excellent nutmeg, cinnamon, pepper, cocoa, coffee and coconuts. We learn how each crop is grown and harvested, along with a demonstration of how palm sugar is processed, a staple ingredient in this part of the world. In the afternoon we continue our journey east, driving to the port town of Ketapang. It is from here we wave goodbye to Java and catch a ferry to our next Indonesian island, Bali. Once on the \ Hindu Island\ , we continue by bus, driving along the scenic coastal road to the relaxed beach-side town of Pemuteran.

Kubuku Lodge (or similar)

Grade: Comfortable Lodge

Pemuteran is a laid-back village located on Bali's northern coastline, tucked far away from the beach hot spots in the south. Its lack of surf means it's not a popular haunt for surfers either, but instead it is a perfect secluded spot for swimming and snorkelling. Pemuteran and its villagers have witnessed the effect of over-tourism in other resorts in Bali, and are taking active steps to avoid the same pitfalls. They have set up a community-wide initiative which tightly controls any building and development, and they operate a fascinating environmental project they call 'Bio Rocks'. Before being made illegal, vast swathes of the local coral had been destroyed by dynamite fishing, so the coral is now being grown back with the aid of a low-voltage electricity supply, returning at a rate estimated to be five times faster.

Today has been left free to explore the village or to relax on the beach and soak up Pemuteran's laid-back atmosphere. There are also a variety of optional excursions to choose from, including a half-day snorkelling trip or a mangrove walk.

There is a further free morning in Pemuteran today, and after lunch we continue along the scenic coastal road before turning inland. The road begins to twist and turn through the forest until we reach the small farming community of Munduk. The town enjoys an enviable position sitting higher in altitude than most of the island, and the cooler climes offer some respite from Bali's humidity. Munduk is home to a community of farmers that serve the myriad of surrounding plantations and rice paddies, and we hope to arrive in time for a sundowner as we climb to a viewpoint to watch the day turn to night and the sun dip into the forests below.

Puri Lumbung (or similar)

As far as tourism is concerned, Munduk very much sits in the shadows of its more popular cousin Ubud. Its small village offers few familiar concessions to modern tourists, but its surrounding countryside hides towering waterfalls, lush rice paddies and colourful plantations, and this morning we set off on foot to explore these surroundings. Our walk takes us through plantations of banana, cocoa and coffee, where we learn how the locals grow, harvest and sell these vital crops to support their families, and have been doing so for generations. We continue the walk through forests before reaching the impressive Melanting and Munduk waterfalls, which offer a great place to break for a snack and for photo opportunities. We continue back to Munduk village where we end the morning's walk, a total of around four hours and six kilometres.

After lunch, we continue our drive down through the island's lush centre to the beating heart of Bali's bohemian culture, Ubud.

Overall driving time approx. 5 hours.

Sri Aksata Ubud Resort (or similar)

After being picked up at our hotel, we will be driven to the start point of our bike ride. From here, we will head downhill along off the beaten track village roads. We will immerse ourselves in the typical Balinese daily life and relish the captivating countryside scenery. Our route will take us through lush, forested areas and plantations brimming with Balinese crops. As we continue, we'll pass through small villages and traverse lush-green rice paddies. Along the way we will visit a Balinese home, an up-close and personal glimpse of how the Balinese live their lives. Depending on the season, we might take a short walk through the rice paddies, witnessing villagers engaged in the age-old practices of planting and harvesting rice. The ride is 3 hours long and mostly on flat or downhill terrain. We will enjoy lunch served at the local restaurant before returning to town.

The rest of the day is free to further. There's the option to visit some of the various handicraft workshops for which Ubud is famous, or cultural sites such as the Goa Gajah cave, Yeh Pulu rock carvings and the Pejeng Temple. Balinese art reflects many of the traditions and culture of the islands, recounting religious and historical epics, elements of puppet theatre and even real life, and in Ubud you can find some of the finest examples of the work anywhere in the archipelago.

Meals Provided: Breakfast & Lunch

We start our day with an orientation walk around the rice paddy fields, learning about local farming techniques and the life of the farmers here. Later this morning we leave Ubud and make the one hour journey to our final stop at Sanur on Bali's south east coast, where we find white sand beaches. Sanur has a village feel and while there are several hotels and resorts it retains a certain charm. There are plenty of small shops for souvenir shopping, a selection of restaurants both on the main street and on the palm fringed beach front.

Puri Sading (or similar)

Your time is free today to enjoy this small beach resort. Optional excursions for those who wish to be more active include excursions to explore either east or south Bali.

Our tour ends after breakfast, but depending on flight times there may be the opportunity to enjoy the beach this morning for one last time.

Trip information

Lying on the equator, Indonesia stays hot all year round, with daytime temperatures in the 80's (26°-28°C). Humidity is usually high. The wet seasons are roughly: Java- October to April; Bali- November to May; starting later the further east you travel. Nights are much cooler in the mountains than on the plains. Sea breezes normally keep the coastal strips of the islands from becoming too uncomfortable.

Time difference to GMT

2 Pin Round

Islam, Christian, Hindu

Indonesian (official), numerous regional dialects, Sundanese, Javanese and some English.

Optional activities The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these tour notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations. Please note: These activities are booked and paid for locally and do not form part of your Explore holiday contract.

Yogyakarta - Ramayana Ballet - dance performance £20.00 (£27 with dinner included) Ubud - Kecak and fire dance show £5.00 Pemuteran - Mangrove walk at Wst Bali National Park from £36 (minimum 2 people). Snorkeling at Menjangan National Park from £45 (minimum 2 people). Sanur - East Bali tour visiting Goa Lawa bat cave, Tirtagangga water palace and Tenganan village - £30, Temple tour of South Bali taking in Taman Ayun and Taman Lot including a Barong dance performance - £35.

The region is tropical (humid) and days can be very hot. Casual clothes are the most practical, whilst tight fitting garments should be avoided. Please bring long skirts, trousers and shirts to cover yourself fully in order to respect local sensibilities and please bear in mind that short shorts are generally unacceptable. Bring some warmer clothing for the time spent at higher altitudes and if you intend (conditions allowing) to climb Mount Ijen (optional). Light rain gear and/or an umbrella is excellent in sticky, tropical conditions. A sunhat is essential.

Comfortable walking shoes, trainers and sandals.

Luggage: On tour

We recommend you bring a daypack and one main piece of luggage, you'll be required to carry your own luggage in places, so don't overload yourself. For our night on Bromo we won't have access to our main luggage, so you will need to pack your daypack with one nights essentials.

Binoculars, torch, water bottle, insect repellent, high factor suncream (at least factor 15), good quality sunglasses and a lip salve with sun protection. You may also wish to bring your own snorkel and mask for Lovina Beach.

Food and drink The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may charge more.

Foreign exchange, transport information.

Bus, Ferry, Rickshaw

Government Travel Safety Advice

Under 18 immigration guidance.

Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under 18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.

Price Guarantee

Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the circumstances. However, please note that if you voluntarily make any changes to your booking including changing your trip or departure date, any additional costs or charges incurred will not be covered. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing information. Booking Conditions  

Visa and Passport Information

Indonesia: British nationals travelling to Indonesia for tourism purposes can apply for a visa on arrival at a cost of IDR 500,000. Other nationalities may require a visa or may travel visa free for up to 30 days. Please check your government advice. If travelling on a free visa you must also exit via one of the approved ports - including international airports in Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Bali, Medan, Surabaya and Batam, and sea ports in Batam and Bintan. All passports must have at least 6 months validity remaining after departure from Indonesia. The Bali Provincial Government introduced a tourist levy of IDR 150,000 per person to all foreign tourists arriving in Bali. We recommend making the payment online prior to arrival. A QR code will be sent to you by email for scanning upon arrival. For more information and payment please visit https://lovebali.baliprov.go.id/.

If you do require assistance in obtaining a visa then you may be able to apply through Explore's recommended visa service in the UK, Travcour. See www.travcour.com to download the relevant visa application for your trip, if applicable (UK citizens only), along with details of how to apply for your visa through Travcour. The Team at Travcour will be happy to answer specific questions relating to visa applications, please call them directly on 0208 5431846 . It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity for your chosen destination.  

Booking conditions

Minimum age restrictions, your safety and enjoyment on tour, your tour leader, find out more about trip transfer terms and conditions before you book. booking a land only package with explore.

Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements. Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information.  You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.

Joining Tour Abroad

Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive and depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates. The complimentary transfers will be arranged from the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the ending point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both. The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at the designated airport or train station.  

Free transfers are not available for Polar customers.

If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking.   For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here

It is a condition of booking with Explore that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your policy includes medical emergency helicopter evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the entire duration of your holiday. If you are trekking at altitude please ensure that there is no upper altitude limit which may limit or exclude cover for your trip. The cost of many of our Polar Voyages will exceed the capped amount covered by standard insurance premiums and you will be required to pay an additional premium to cover the full value of your trip. Please ensure that you are covered for the full amount of your holiday cost, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy. Medical and repatriation insurance cover is not mandatory for UK residents who are travelling on trips within the United Kingdom. Read more information about what travel insurance is required.

Flight information

Flight information.

You are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.

Booking a flight inclusive package with Explore

We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.

On our website we display the price of the tour only. Please call us or select the flight option during the online checkout to receive a quote for a flight inclusive package. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.

Vaccinations

Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against malaria, tetanus, infectious hepatitis, typhoid and polio. Consult your travel clinic for latest advice on Malaria and Zika Virus. Please take preventative measures to avoid mosquito bites - these include mosquito repellent as well as long trousers and long sleeve shirts to cover up when necessary. Although not compulsory, travellers may wish to immunise themselves against Japanese encephalitis. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at Explore Travel Health and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.

Why book this trip

Dates, prices and booking, add a flight with explore.

• Full Explore refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
• Carbon neutral flights – Gold Standard offsetting included
• Rearranged flights and transfers in the event of delays, missed connections, or cancellations (including accommodation overseas)
• ATOL protected
• No surcharge guarantee

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