bali indonesia travel guide

12 things to know before going to Bali, Indonesia

Jan 18, 2024 • 8 min read

These top tips for visiting Bali can help you plan the perfect trip © Klaus Vedfelt / Getty Images

The Indonesian island of Bali is a sun-soaked paradise that attracts every type of traveler, from budget-conscious backpackers to luxury jet-setters.

But – as with any destination – the vast majority of travelers (especially first-timers) will have a number of questions, whether it's "Can unmarried couples stay together in Bali?" (an increasingly common one in the light of recently-introduced new rules for tourists in Bali, which we'll get to later) or "What should I wear?"

Thankfully, Bali is one of the easiest destinations to explore, although its size – the island covers 5776 sq km (2230 sq miles) – means travelers should take the time to think about what they want to see and do relatively early on. For example, places such as Seminyak , with its beach clubs and five-star hotels, tend to become somewhat crowded during peak season, while more rural destinations, such as Ubud , might well require a longer taxi journey  but are absolutely worth the effort, especially for those keen to avoid the crowds.

It's also worth bearing in mind that Bali is one of Asia's safest destinations. As with any holiday hot spot, there are always going to be certain things we can do to ensure we stay safe while traveling, but crackdowns on petty theft and bad behavior have all helped transform the island into a wonderfully family-friendly destination .

Here are our top tips for anyone heading to Bali.

1. Check your vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to Indonesia

There are no mandatory vaccinations for visitors to Bali (barring the need for travelers arriving from countries with a high yellow fever transmission risk to carry a yellow fever vaccination certificate), although Hepatitis A, typhoid and tetanus are often recommended. Bali falls into the "low to no risk" category when it comes to malaria.

Rabies remains a big problem in Indonesia, and although it claims fewer lives in Bali than elsewhere (according to the World Health Organization, 11 people died from rabies in the first half of 2023), it still exists, and the rabies vaccination is worth considering. Working out what vaccinations you need for a holiday to Bali is mostly a personal choice, but if you have concerns, contact your local physician for the latest guidance.

2. Bring a reusable bottle

One of the most asked questions by tourists: "Is Bali's tap water safe to drink?" The short answer is "no." Stick to bottled water or, better still, bring a bottle with a built-in water filtering membrane. Purchasing bottled water – especially in restaurants – can quickly become expensive, which is another reason we're fans of reusable filtered ones, such as Larq and Lifestraw. These are also handy when it comes to purifying water used for cleaning fruits and vegetables. Additionally, try to steer clear of ice and use bottled water to brush your teeth.

3. Don't write off the rainy season

Having a rough idea of when dry and rainy seasons fall is undoubtedly something that is useful to know before heading to Indonesia . But bear with us – Bali's rainy season, which takes place between October and April, is a great time to visit. It's typified by short, sharp showers that often only last a few minutes. And in addition to the fact that prices for everything – from regional airfares to hotels – plummet, the island becomes wonderfully lush, the weather is still warm (typically hovering between 24°C/75°F and 29°C/85°F), and the main tourist attractions are blissfully crowd-free. You'll also find it easier to snap up places on excursions, such as snorkeling tours and guided hikes.

4. Buy some bug spray

To be clear, Bali doesn't have a major mosquito problem, but like anywhere in Southeast Asia, these pesky biting bugs love the occasional bloodsucking session – in the case of Bali, particularly during the rainy season between November and April. Lighten the load on your wallet by purchasing your repellent in Bali and opting for bug sprays made in Asia. Popular (and much cheaper) Asian brands you'll find throughout Indonesia include Soffell (snap up the surprisingly pleasant floral-scented version if you can).

5. Avoid traveling during peak times

Traffic in Bali can be horrendous – especially around busier spots such as Denpasar and Kuta – and estimated journey times on apps like Google Maps or Grab are notoriously unreliable. Peak times tend to be 6am to 8am (but roads often remain busy until 10am when day-trippers head out) and 4pm to 7pm. Allow plenty of time to get from A to B, especially when heading to the airport.

6. Pack clothes that will cover you up for when you're not on the beach

In Bali, skimpy swimwear is fine for the beach, but definitely not for trips to a supermarket or restaurant.

Men and women need to ensure their shoulders and upper legs are covered when visiting religious sites, although most of these places will have sarongs for visitors to borrow. Pack like a pro by taking a light cotton scarf that can double as a sarong if you visit a temple or other religious site, and a pair of light cotton trousers (bonus points if they've got a built-in mosquito repellent), which will protect you from bites while also providing enough coverage at sites where tiny denim shorts or a vest just won't cut it.

7. Behave respectfully

Various media reports might give the impression it's easy to get into trouble in Bali, but it's not. In reality, you just need to be sensible: don't do drugs (being caught with under a gram of cannabis will land you in prison), be respectful and dress appropriately at religious sites, don't ride a motorbike or moped without a helmet (Bali's police have recently started cracking down especially hard on foreign moped drivers), and treat locals with respect.

8. Locals will be keen to share their knowledge with you

Staying at a hotel with a concierge or a friendly receptionist? Feel free to grill them about the best local bar, beach or restaurant. The Balinese are incredibly proud of their island  – don't be surprised if the bartender at your favorite beach bar ends up inviting you to their home for dinner with their family – and love nothing more than telling visitors about their favorite beach, nature walk or temple.

9. Eat, drink, stay and shop locally

Don't be afraid to go local, whether this means eating at tiny family-run restaurants or opting for local drink brands. You'll pay less and enjoy delicious local dishes, and you'll be contributing directly to the local economy, too. These days, even the smallest restaurants, bars and independent hotels will be listed on online review sites such as Zomato (especially popular in Asia), and a quick glance should tell you whether the business in question is reputable or not.

10. Carry some loose change

Many businesses in Bali will take payment by card, but there are still plenty of places that only take cash. These include temples, smaller souvenir shops and beachfront masseuses (which, by the way, offer some of the best massages going). ATMs on the island can be unreliable and are also few and far between in some areas. Additionally, don't assume you'll always have the mobile data you'll need to book a ride-share taxi. If you need to hail a tuk-tuk or taxi from the side of the road, it's highly likely you'll need to pay in cash.

When using ATMs, opt for ones connected with major banks (in Indonesia, these include BNI, Bank Mandiri, BCA and CIMB Niaga) to avoid withdrawal fees and remember that Indonesian ATMs issue the cash first, so don't forget to wait for your card to appear.

11. Get around by moped (but always wear a helmet)

Mopeds are the cheapest way to get around Bali  and often – especially during rush hour in places such as Kuta – the quickest, too. They're also offered as a mode of transport by Grab and Gojek (Bali's most popular ride-sharing apps), and prices for journeys via mopeds are significantly cheaper than those made by car. Just remember to check the reviews of your chosen driver and always wear a helmet (the driver will typically provide one). Avoid hailing scooter taxis on the street – you won't be able to check their credentials, and, in reality, Grab and Gojek have so many scooter drivers (both identifiable for their bright green jackets) that there's simply no need.

12. There is a no-sex-before-marriage law

In December 2022, the Indonesian government brought in a new law that forbids sex outside of marriage. Technically, this law applies to visitors as well as locals.

At the time, it was announced that the legislation won't be introduced until late 2025. Since then, Bali's governor has said that the law – dubbed by some newspapers as the "Bali bonk ban"– won't apply to tourists and, additionally, guilty parties can only be reported by spouses, parents or children. In summary, the law represents a worrying development for human rights in Indonesia, but it's not one that is likely to affect tourists.

This article was first published May 30, 2019 and updated Jan 18, 2024.

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Bali Travel Guide

Nowhere on the planet offers the same combination of surfing, spirituality and sun-kissed sybaritic pleasure as Bali. On the Island of the Gods, fresh ideas arrive like waves, creating a glorious cocktail of cultures and influences. A stay here might mean tropical brutalism of The Slow in Canggu or mod-Balinese bamboo pods at Ubud’s Bambu Indah. It might mean kicking back with Canggu’s clean-living nomads, Seminyak’s style-conscious surfers, or Ubud’s smart crowd, who eat at Noma-ish Locavore and roll their eyes at the mention of Eat, Pray, Love . Either way, everyone and everything is welcome.

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Bali Is One of the Most Instagrammable Islands in the World, With Stunning Beaches, Emerald Jungles, and Luxury Villas

These are the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do in Bali.

• Best Hotels & Resorts

Things to Do

Best shopping, best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, neighborhoods to visit, how to get around.

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As magical destinations go, Bali is definitely up there. There are the awe-inspiring temples in the tens of thousands — literally — and near-daily ceremonies: vivid, multi-sensory, and loud, accompanied by chanting and clanging gamelan . Add to that endless beaches trimmed in aquamarine surf, pulsing with relentlessly curling waves topped with dancing surfers. There are miles and miles of verdant rice paddies, terraced so immaculately they've become iconic. And don't forget canang sari , the prolific flower-laden offerings blessed and placed seemingly everywhere daily on the so-called "Island of Gods."

"From its pristine beaches to lush landscapes, cultural treasures, and thrilling adventures, Bali will resonate with every traveler," Giordano Faggioli, the general manager of Ayana Estate, told Travel + Leisure. "Guests can seek relaxation, exploration, spiritual rejuvenation, or adrenaline-pumping pursuits that harmoniously offer an unforgettable experience."

Bali has an energy about it that acts as a siren song to woo-woo wellness practitioners, design buffs, and carousing Gen Z-ers in equal numbers, along with stoked surfers, spiritual pilgrims, yogis, beach lovers, plus plenty of celebrities and influencers to boot. And the most fulfilling and thrilling Bali holidays include a few locations, so don't stress about picking just one vibe or scene — it's best to combine a few, or two if you're short on time.

"Guests can tailor their Bali experience based on personal preferences," Faggioli said. "My suggestion is to scale the heights of Mount Batur to witness a captivating sunrise over the island’s volcanic terrain. Immerse in the local community and Balinese everyday life at Sukowati market." Enjoy island time and the locals who are overwhelmingly generous, sweet, and genuine. All factors considered, it's nearly impossible not to leave Bali feeling far better — happier, healthier, and definitely more tan — than when you landed.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Four seasons resort bali at sayan.

It's obvious you're somewhere special right upon arrival at this John Heah–designed resort . The standalone villas (each with a private pool) and suites have slept everyone from the Obamas to Julia Roberts. River rafting, cycling, and other adventurous cultural tours are on offer, but the resort environment — with its pools, flavorful food, and entertainment — is so alluring it's tempting to just relax, too.

Capella Ubud

As resort concepts go, Capella Ubud, voted one of the best resorts in Indonesia in 2022 by T+L readers , is truly one-of-a-kind. Its 22 one-bedroom tented and batik-draped retreats, hand-painted Mads Lange restaurant, and even saltwater pool all float over the jungle floor — not one tree was cut as the whimsical Bill Bensley creations were constructed.

Katamama Suites at Desa Potato Head

An artisanal theme pervades this brick-clad Brutalist boutique hotel that manages to be a quiet respite in the heart of lively Seminyak. It all celebrates Indonesia's rich traditions of craft through a midcentury-esque lens. Tear yourself away from the long turquoise pool to hit the beach, just a few minutes away, or some of the hundreds of shops and restaurants within walking distance.

Como Uma Canggu

This airy modern beachfront resort occupies prime real estate in Canggu, easy walking—or scooting—distance to all the town's hot spots. Hopeful surfers should book lessons with the consummate professionals at Tropicsurf onsite, while the wellness-minded have their choice of Pilates, yoga, a Jungle Sports studio, and a comprehensive spa.

Uluwatu Surf Villas

If paradisiacal views are what you crave, Uluwatu Surf Villas has you covered. The legendary surfers' resort perched above those famously large waves (there's a set of private steps down) offers traditionally Balinese-designed thatched-roof cliff-front villas as well as a collection of newer architectural masterpieces, each one with its own unique tropical modern vibe.

Ayana Villas

Feel like you're the only one in Bali with a stay at Ayana Villas , a resort made up of 78 private villas, each with its own plunge pools. Ocean views, flowering gardens, and utter romance abound at this chic resort, making it an ideal spot for honeymooners to come to bask in that new love glow.

Read More: T+L Readers' 5 Favorite Resorts in Indonesia of 2023

Ride a Bike Through Rice Fields

There's no question about the iconic status of Tegallalang, the flawless and highly photogenic rice terraces curving around hillsides and irrigated by the subak system, which has UNESCO status. As good as that hot spot is, the more intimate way to experience the ubiquitous emerald paddies is by bicycle, which many Ubud hotels and tour companies offer led by local guides.

Try Surfing

Bali's reputation as a surf destination is well earned, thanks to its rich assortment of not only professional-grade waves (see the aquamarine behemoths rolling in like corduroy in Keramas and Uluwatu, where Kelly Slater surfs) but also beginner-level breaks like Baby Padang at Padang Padang Beach and Batu Bolong in Canggu. There are fantastic surf camps and instructors across the island.

Visit Hindu Temples

Bali's transcendent charm is rooted in its tens of thousands of Hindu temples, and there are many worth visiting for a dose of impressively ornate architecture and mystical ambiance. Some of the most iconic on the island are Pura Tirta Empul ( pura means "temple"), where you can bathe and bless yourself in holy spring waters spouting from carved stone; Pura Besakih, the largest and holiest of them all; and Pura Luhur Uluwatu, the clifftop sea temple where each sunset draws tourists for flashy yet authentic kecak (fire) dances.

Take a Yoga Class at The Yoga Barn

Ubud is associated with all things spiritual, and high vibe, and its multitude of yoga studios and movement centers are evidence. Practitioners can find more than 100 classes per week at The Yoga Barn , an epicenter of yin, vinyasa, Hatha, and kundalini, plus meditation, sound healing, and ecstatic dance.

Gaya Ceramic

The founders of this celebrated ceramic design studio are an Italian expat couple, but their ultra-skilled team of some 100 craftsmen are overwhelmingly Balinese. It's impossible to leave the showroom empty-handed, thanks to its proliferation of glamorous handmade dishes and decor.

Canaan x Rou

This petite shop packs a major punch with tightly curated and oftentimes collaborative goods made by Balinese artisans, think placemats, eye-catching brass cutlery, and a plant-dyed shibori clothing collection. Beautiful gifts — for yourself and also loved ones back home—include signature Canaan candles, artisanal fans from Yogyakarta, and Cisco & the Sun's wabi sabi–inspired ceramics.

Magali Pascal

Ethereal, elegant, and earthy womenswear can be found at this Canggu boutique . The eponymous label began on Bali in 2005 and marries an effortless French sensibility with a cool-girl palette ideal for island holidays.

You don't need to be a pro in the waves to embark on a spree at this beloved surf shop . A reclaimed joglo house holds dozens of slick, technicolor surfboards — finely crafted by sought-after shapers — along with Drifter's own brand of art-emblazoned tees, international bikini collections, original artwork, boho jewelry, ocean-themed books, and far more.

With a name meaning "tribe" in Bahasa Indonesia, Kaum is a concept born of its culinary team's deep exploration of Indonesia's super diverse archipelago and its tribes' cooking and catching methods (fishing and spear hunting to name a few adventures). A sampling of fiery sambals is a great way to start feasting on rich regional dishes made of specialty ingredients sourced as locally as possible.

It's not too extreme an exaggeration to call Ubud a mecca for vegans, and this plant-, root- and shoot-slinging destination is like the high temple in the lush jungle. Zest , the chic, plant-powered restaurant appropriately hugs a living frangipani tree and offers up colorful, organic fare from jackfruit steaks to pizzas and cassava fettuccini alongside a lively community and creative, island-grown cocktails and tonics.

Hujan Locale

Casually elegant and tucked away like a well-kept secret amid Ubud's busy streets, this eatery is a perfect blend of warung (a basic Indonesian cafe or small restaurant) and fine dining restaurant. Sit near one of many open windows for views of a classic Balinese neighborhood while sipping vibrant cocktails (think Carrot Mai Tais and Butterfly Pea Martinis).

Chef's Table at Sokasi

Intimate dinners at Sokasi — the curvaceous bamboo pavilion perched above the rushing Ayung River at the Four Seasons in Sayan — are all about preserving the island's time-intensive culinary heritage. Arrive early for a peek at the pig roasting over a coconut wood fire before tucking into rich, forgotten recipes featuring flavors like wild ginger and klengis (an extract from hand-making coconut oil).

Cuca Restaurant Bali

Tapas in Indonesia sounds random but dreamed up and prepared with quality produce and products sourced from the archipelago by chef Kevin Cherkas (whose CV includes several Michelin three-star restaurants), it's flawless. The nine-course tasting menu at Cuca is a favorite at this vegetarian-friendly fine-dining spot. And though its ingredients evoke Indonesia, the plates are all over the map: sticky eggplant sushi, BBQ octopus, Turkish meatballs, moussaka, and crispy fried chicken.

Daniel Gorostieta/Travel + Leisure

The best time to visit Bali is during both the summer holiday months and the local festive season.

The biggest holiday of the year is Nyepi , which happens in March and involves fantastical parades of men and boys hauling ogoh-ogoh (huge handmade demon dolls) the night before a 24-hour silent day, on which even the airport falls quiet, and planes don't take off or land, and the use of electricity and vehicles is forbidden. For that period, tourists must stay on the grounds of their accommodations, but it's a beautiful opportunity to experience Balinese culture as well as epic stargazing. Surfers will find the best waves on the west coast of Bali from May to October, at which point the winds shift and it improves on the eastern side.

"Being an equatorial getaway boasting a consistently delightful climate, this destination attracts globetrotters from across the world, regardless of whether it's the dry or rainy season," Faggioli shared. "Nevertheless, my ultimate preference rests with the period spanning from June to August. During these months, the sun graces the skies daily, and the weather is very nice."

Bali doesn't experience four seasons in the same way we do. Instead, there are just two: rainy and dry. When it rains, it really pours, but there can also be beautiful days during that humid period, from November to March. April to October tends to be far drier and equally hot, though nights can feel quite cool. Daytime temperatures hover in the high 70s and 80s Fahrenheit year-round.

Plane: Because Bali is an island, the practical to get there is by plane. Visitors will fly into its one international airport, Denpasar-Ngurah Rai International Airport, which services flights from all over the world.

Ferry: There are also plentiful ferries that travel from the mainland of Indonesia to Bali. See all the available ferry terminals and times here .

Cruise: One more option is to book a cruise that stops in Bali as one of its ports of call. Several cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises , make stops here.

This is Bali's most known beach neighborhood, and without a doubt, its busiest. There are literally countless places to shop, eat, and drink along its vibrant, crowded streets, not to mention hundreds of deluxe villas and many luxury hotels. Partying isn't contained to after-dark hours — beach clubs like Potato Head and Ku De Ta are popular at all times of day and night.

Think of Canggu as the newer Seminyak — super hip and, in recent years, where a burst of development has occurred, bringing this seaside beach town plenty of cool little boutiques. Plus, loads of eateries and bars are helmed by chefs from around the world, bringing not only international flavors but aesthetics.

Ever since Elizabeth Gilbert's " Eat Pray Love" threw Ubud (pronounced oo-bood ) into the spotlight, it's become almost every tourist's definition of Bali. That's ironic considering the island is known for its beaches, and this busy, sprawling town full of yoga studios, vegan cafes, shops, spas, and markets is a 30-minute motorbike ride from the nearest stretch of sand. Still, it's probably the most popular stop in Bali, a great jumping-off point for temple visits, hikes (Mt. Batur is lovely at sunrise), visits with healers, coffee ( kopi ) tastings, and a serious dose of culture.

If you surf, you've already heard of Uluwatu. Besides its epic waves, the southwesternmost tip of Bali is famed for Pura Uluwatu, the clifftop Hindu temple where monkeys cause mischief as sarong-clad visitors take in panoramic sunsets. Uluwatu and its neighboring surf towns of Padang Padang and Bingin are lower key than Canggu, with more dramatically beautiful beaches (most of which require a decent number of steps to access) and a laid-back but luscious restaurant and cafe scene.

Nusa Lembongan

This tiny island off the southeastern coast is technically part of Bali (along with the even teenier Nusa Ceningan and much larger but less developed Nusa Penida), but is about 20 years behind developmentally, which means it's a bit closer to the storied Bali of yore. Still, there are already plenty of Instagrammable hotels and eateries here, so if you're keen for some scuba diving, snorkeling, or more surf, it makes for a fun few-day spinoff (the fast boat from Sanur or Serangan takes about 30 minutes).

Motorbike : Bali does not have a public transit system in the Western sense — there are some buses, but not reliable or advised. Instead, the ubiquitous motorbikes that flood every street (and sometimes sidewalk) are the primary mode of transportation. There are plentiful rental services to assist in finding the bike for you. Taxi: If the idea of riding one stresses you out (and it should a bit, the experience is not for the timid), there are plentiful taxis for hire. Uber is not available in Bali, so go with a local service instead.

Private car: There are also abundant private cars with gracious Balinese drivers who will happily be on call to ferry you around the island, many of whom double as casual tour guides.

Rental cars: Almost every rental car service operates in Bali and is available from the airport. If you plan to see a lot of the area it is a good idea to rent your own car, or like the above, hire a private driver, to take you around.

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• How to pack light for your trip
• How to plan your trip our tips

Why is Bali worth visiting?

Bali, a tropical paradise and spiritual haven, is home to stunning beaches, lush jungles, majestic volcanos, and plunging waterfalls. With such a variety of landscapes, it’s a dream come true for every type of traveler, whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping activities, cultural temple visits, or island-hopping adventures.

Is Bali cheap to visit?

Experience the tropical paradise of Bali without breaking the bank! Although there are some more luxurious (and expensive) spots on the island, you can still find mouthwatering street food for under $10 or stay in beautiful bamboo houses in Bali for under $50 a night, making it very accessible for those on a budget.

Can I drink tap water in Bali?

Drinking tap water in Bali is not recommended. However, there are plenty of other great options to stay hydrated! Choose an eco-friendly option, using a reusable water bottle with an in-built filter system or refilling at restaurants with filtered water.

Do I need a visa for traveling in Bali?

Great news! Travelers can explore Bali with a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for up to 30 days. And to make it even easier, you can now apply online beforehand. Cruise through customs and dive straight into Bali’s wonders!

Tip: Check your country’s entry requirements well in advance, as some places are subject to stricter visa rules.

What language do they speak in Bali?

In Bali, the language is the beautiful Bahasa Indonesia. Make your travel experience even more memorable by engaging with locals through words, offering a warm “Selamat Pagi” (good morning) as you explore this captivating island.

Do I need travel insurance for Bali?

Travel insurance is an absolute must in Bali! It protects you against unexpected events, whether that’s a flight cancellation, lost luggage, or medical care. Jump on that motorbike and explore the island worry-free!

Is Bali safe?

While Bali is generally safe, some petty crime does occur. It’s always good to exercise caution by leaving any valuables at home and keeping an eye on your belongings. However, in general, Bali’s warm hospitality means you can explore worry-free!

What power plug type does Bali have?

The plug standard in Bali is a two-pin plug for a socket, also known as plug type F and type C. Stay connected In Bali by purchasing an adaptor. Don’t worry if you forget; you can easily buy one at the airport or local stores on the island.

Why do people love Bali?

Bali is loved by people worldwide for its breathtaking diversity. Whether you’re looking for relaxed beach clubs in Seminyak, cultural markets in Ubud, or marine adventures in the turquoise waves of Nusa Penida, this island offers experiences for every traveler.

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‘Paradise’ is the word on every traveler’s lips as soon as they witness the picture-perfect scenery that Bali has to offer. There is some kind of wonderland for everyone on vacation in Bali, from world-famous surf spots and laidback beach bars to impressive waterfalls adjacent to luscious paddy fields.

How to Plan Your Trip to Bali

Follow our Bali travel guides to plan the ultimate trip! Whether you’re backpacking around the island and looking for affordable and lively destinations, or you’re on your honeymoon in Bali , we’ve got you covered with a variety of informative guides. Discover the best places in Bali, or check out our 7-day Bali itinerary .

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Best Time to Visit Bali

Planning your perfect Bali holiday? Find out about the weather in Bali to choose the best time to explore this enchanting island!

Dry Season (April-October): The best time to visit Bali is in the dry season (also the high season), which brings clear skies and sunny days. Although there may be more crowds during this time, it’s ideal for beach lovers and ocean adventurers, with the best surfing conditions, particularly on the west coast. During these months, you can also witness fantastic cultural festivals, like Galungan and Kuningan, which really bring the island to life.

Wet Season (November-March) : Although you can expect downpours, the rainy season is a beautiful time to visit Bali, when the island becomes its most green and luscious. It’s also an excellent time for budget travelers and backpacking in Bali, as it’s considered the low season, with fewer crowds and lower prices. Although it may rain most days, this tropical goodness only lasts a few hours, and you can typically expect sunshine again later in the day. What’s more, these rains mean you can see the rivers and waterfalls in Bali at their most powerful.

Best time to visit Bali for activities: If surfing is your thing, head to Bali between May and September when waves are at their best. Culture vultures should plan around the best festivals in Bali. For example, the Bali Kite Festival or the Arts Festival that take place in the summer months.

Whatever you’re looking for, every season in Bali has its charm, so whether you’re chasing waves, adrenaline adventures, or sunny beach days, you’ll find the perfect time to delve into Bali’s magic. Get ready to create unforgettable memories in this tropical paradise!

Coastlines and Beaches in Bali

The vibrant, luscious greens of Bali’s jungles and paddy fields are beautifully complemented by its fantastic coastline and neighboring islands. Whether it’s the spectacular cliffs and crashing emerald waves of Uluwatu or the long beaches bouncing with live music in Canggu , there are plenty of beach spots to choose from on your vacation in Bali.

Head offshore to the incredible islands surrounding Bali to fulfill paradise dreams! Discover tiny islands with white sand and clear oceans. Some of the best places to visit in Bali are Gili Air or Gili Meno, where it’s easy to see turtles, colorful corals, and tropical fish. Here, experience the simple pleasures of a world without cars and only gentle walks through palm tree forests and fallen coconuts. For something a little more adventurous, experience the exhilarating island of Nusa Penida , an island home to extraordinary cliffs, swelling oceans, and mammoth manta rays.

Food, Culture, and Religion in Bali

Aptly named as the ‘Island of the Gods’, Bali showcases a unique sense of spirituality that’s deeply rooted in Hinduism among predominantly Muslim Indonesia. As such, different religions, cultures, and customs live happily side by side, always with a smile and a deep appreciation for the enjoyment of life. It is this joy, peace, and unique philosophy of life that makes Bali so special. Not only that but also the countless beautiful temples and colorful shrines, often surrounded by wonderful nature and wild monkeys. Places like Ubud are the ultimate jungle oasis of tranquility and calm.

Bali’s culinary scene is one of the best in the world, offering a mix of aromatic meat dishes and vegetarian delights. Enjoy delicious rice dishes like Nasi Goreng and Nasi Campur or succulent Satay skewers. As it’s a tropical island, you’ll also find plenty of fresh seafood and tropical fruits to snack on while you enjoy this beautiful paradise.

Why You Should Travel to Bali

It’s certainly easy to see how Bali has been elevated to its status as one of the best holiday destinations in the world. The island will steal hearts, captivate imaginations, and continuously tempt travelers to return for more, time and time again.

Its diversity is what’s most compelling, with adventures for every type of traveler. Some of the best things to do in Bali include exploring the crater’s edge and hiking epic volcanos, ziplining through gorges, and swimming with turtles.

When you’re done with activities on your Bali holiday, there’s plenty of relaxation to be had, whether that’s swinging in hammocks under coconut trees, enjoying healing Balinese spa treatments, or savoring candlelit dinners under the stars.

Safety and Travel Advice in Bali

Travelers who want to vacation in Bali, a magical island paradise in Indonesia, should take the necessary precautions to enjoy a safe trip. The following information, given by the government of Indonesia, helps visitors get the most out of their journey.

Natural Disasters: Although natural disasters happen infrequently in Bali, the island is prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity. Stay informed by registering with your embassy to receive emergency updates on your trip.

Crime and safety in Bali: While Bali is generally safe, petty theft can happen. Exercise caution by keeping valuables secure and leaving any important belongings at home. Like any destination, we recommend avoiding isolated areas at night and sticking to well-lit spots with more people.

Learn more about travel safety

Traffic in Bali: Traffic in Bali can be chaotic. The island’s infrastructure and population are rapidly growing, meaning there can be traffic congestion and queues. Although it’s very normal to use scooters and motorbikes, always wear a helmet and protective clothing, and ensure you have travel insurance. During the rainy season, be aware of road conditions, as the tarmac can be slippery.

Cultural Sensitivity: Bali is named ‘Island of the Gods’ for its rich culture and spirituality. Please make sure to always respect local customs, be that wearing appropriate clothing or asking permission to take photos of locals.

Travel Insurance: One of the most important things you need to do before your Bali holiday is purchase travel insurance. Although Bali itself is safe, there is potential for accidents – for example, an injury after surfing, a canceled flight, or lost baggage. Check out these best travel insurances .

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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Hi! This guide has been really useful. But I would love some advice on how to book some of the hotels, trips etc, And can I do this with a flight included? I am a 53 year old female who will be travelling alone and as you may have guessed I have only ever been on package holidays before but would love to do Bali on a multi hotel basis to ensure I see as much as possible in either 2 or 3 weeks. Look forward to some replies – all advice welcomed xx

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A complete guide to Bali, Indonesia

Updated On 1st February, 2024

Bali  is one of the most beautiful destinations in the world, it really is. I want to prove that to you in this Bali travel guide.

This island in Indonesia is host so many beautiful components beyond its wildly lush tropics and beaches. The local Balinese people are equally as treasurable as  the incredible activities on offer in Bali  and are one of the reasons that this island feels so familiar every time I step foot back onto it. This post serves as  the  ultimate  Bali,  Indonesia travel guide to help you with planning your dream trip from  when is best to visit Bali  and  where to stay in Bali  all the way to local guides to  Ubud ,  Canggu  and  Uluwatu.

See my  guide to budgeting for Bali here.

Has Bali been ruined by tourists?

I’ve visited Bali on four separate occasions over the last 6 years. Yes, I’ve certainly watched 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’. However, I still believe Bali is beautiful and there is local culture to be discovered.

Western culture is certainly changing things in areas like  Seminyak  and  Canggu  but the stunning roots of Balinese culture and of the island’s offerings are still in abundance to find. In this Bali Indonesia travel guide, you will get an overview of all the areas to enable you to choose the spots most suited to your taste, be it surfing, rice terraces, a hotel on the beach or a mixture of all of the above. This travel guide is for everyone and guarantees you have the best time in Bali, Indonesia.

If you’re  planning a trip to Bali , I highly recommend that you 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 part in their community and to not  just  take from their beautiful island.

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

Okay, let’s get to it…

EXPLORE INDONESIA ON MY BLOG HERE

The ultimate travel guide to exploring Bali, Indonesia

Where is bali.

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

Where should you explore in Bali?

It’s hard to recommend a ‘single’ destination for your trip to Bali, particularly as things change so quickly on this gorgeous island. When I first explored in 2013 I fell in love with Seminyak. Now I totally avoid it when exploring Bali. That view changed in 11 months. I returned rather taken aback by how much had been built and how busy it was. The same happened with Canggu and Uluwatu is next up IMO. Word catches on, the land gets bought up and development increases! The best places to go with maximum authenticity in Bali change quickly.

What I would say is, if you’re using travel blogs for Bali travel tips, make sure they are up to date. This blog post has been updated in 2022. If you have more up-to-date information to share, please comment, and we will check it out and update the post!

Truth is, every corner of Bali offers something different. As I’ve been to a fair few corners now, I’m going to go through each one and tell you just what you can expect there…

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

How much money should you save for Bali?

Bali is definitely not as cheap as it was when I visited five years ago. But. when compared to the likes of Europe and the 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, 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 from June to August. See  ‘When is best to visit Bali?’ blog post here.

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 ‘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. I’d say we’ve 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 say that whilst you’re sat on a beach with clear blue skies.

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 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, because they are run by locals, aren’t.

See my bucket list of Airbnb stays in Bali  here.

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.

As I mentioned previously, the island is filled with so many gems beyond the ‘main area’s. So whilst the below travel tips 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.

Ubud is known as the  cultural hub of Bali with temples, holistic centres, yoga studios and local markets  on every corner of the street. 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.
• Check out my hike up Mt Batur here.

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  and 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. Don’t forget a visit to Tanah Lot, one of the most popular temples on the island!

• See my complete guide to Canggu here
• Check out the best brunch and coffee spots in Canggu here
• Looking for a luxury stay in Canggu?  Check out my review of Hotel Tugu, Canggu.

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 Gilis , all of which you can explore in a day trip or two.

• See my complete guide to Sanur here

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. This surf town is located on the south of the island on the Western cliffs of the Bukit Peninsula. Here 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 explore Uluwatu here.
• Check out my coffee and brunch guide to Uluwatu here.

Seminyak is one of the closest towns to Denpasar airport (the main airport on the island) and 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’d suggest only staying a night or two, perhaps 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!

Nusa Dua is an area of Bali with luxury 5* resorts that back onto the white sandy 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.

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

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. Check out the dolphins in Lovina!
• Get a boat over to the  Nusa archipelago  and kick back and relax in paradise for two or three days.

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!
• Head to  Sanur , hire a moped and float around the east and north coast for a couple of days. Check out the dolphins in Lovina!
• Get a boat over to the  Nusa archipelago  and kick back and relax in paradise for three days.
• Spend your last few days on Lombok.

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

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 .

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

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. You’re advised not to drink from the taps, but it can happen by accident (e.g. if it’s used in cooking or as ice). Then you can get a bad tummy. I’ve had it twice. Not fun.

There are many top tips I have to share with you for your adventure in Bali…

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.

EXPLORE BALI ON MY BLOG HERE

Have you been to Bali?

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

Love as always + happy adventuring,

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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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Bali Travel Guide and Tips: How to Plan the Perfect Bali Itinerary

Home | Travel | Asia | Indonesia | Bali | Bali Travel Guide and Tips: How to Plan the Perfect Bali Itinerary

Traveling to Bali  was the main reason I visited Asia for the first time. The incredible photos I had seen of the green rice terraces instantly convinced me to take a  trip to Bali.

However, since I was traveling so far, I thought it would be a good idea to visit other countries and areas of Indonesia during my  trip to Southeast Asia . Ultimately, as time was limited, I spent  7 days in Bali,  following the advice Dan had given me after his  vacation in Bali  a few months before.

How to plan the perfect Bali Itinerary

To help you  plan a trip to Bali,  we have compiled everything you need to know before you go to this magical island of Indonesia.

This is our  Ultimate Bali Travel Guide  and the first Capture the Atlas post that you should read if you’re going to travel to Bali. From here, you’ll find links to other specific articles about Bali that we’ve written (you can see the full list at the end).

Additionally, we’ll share some  essential Bali travel tips  for first-time visitors. But before you start  planning a Bali itinerary , are you sure you want to go there?

Bali vacation – Why you need to travel to Bali

I can assure you that  Bali is still worth visiting  even if nowadays it’s very touristy. It’s a great destination for all kinds of travelers. I went  backpacking in Bali , but some friends went to  Bali on their honeymoon,  and we all came back delighted.

Without a doubt, the best thing about spending a  holiday in Bali  is experiencing a new culture, and Bali is the island of smiles; it’s impossible not to fall in love with its people and their way of life.

Holiday in Bali, the guide that helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Bali

  On the other hand, you should know that the influx of  tourists in Bali  has not stopped growing, and thanks to this, the Balinese live much better than locals in other, poorer islands of Indonesia. However, there are also some drawbacks to  tourism in Bali.  It’s important that we, who are lucky enough to travel to the Island of the Gods, practice  responsible tourism in Bali  so that we can all continue enjoying the island in the future.

Traveling to Bali  is simply a unique experience, and I hope to help you make it unforgettable with this  Bali trip planner.

How to plan a trip to Bali – The best Bali itinerary

Planning a trip to Bali  is not complicated, since you can book almost everything online, and there is a lot of information everywhere. In general, to  plan a trip to Bali , follow these ten steps:

• Things to do in Bali: Check out the best places to visit.
• Best Bali itinerary: Choose the best Bali itinerary according to the days you have.
• Best time to visit Bali: When to go to Bali depending on your interests.
• Cheap flights to Bali: Where to get the best deals.
• Hotels and Villas in Bali: Best areas and accommodations.
• How to get around Bali:  Scooter rental in Bali or private driver.
• Best tours in Bali:  Tours that will save you time and money.
• How much cost for a vacation to Bali:  Currency, prices, and money per day.
• Bali visa information:  Check that you have the necessary documentation.
• Safety in Bali:  Vaccines, malaria tablets and travel insurance.

In addition, at the end of this article, we’ll give you other  Bali Travel Tips : Internet access, restaurants, driving in Bali, and more.

Bali travel guide (Indonesia) –Essential Bali travel tips

In this Bali travel guide, we walk you through every step of planning your trip to Bali.  You’ll find a lot of useful tips based on our own experience, along with some anecdotes of our trips to Bali .

1. Best places to visit in Bali

There are so many places you can’t miss on the Island of the Gods that it’s difficult to choose. To help you out, we’ve written a list of  60 things to do in Bali , Indonesia, so you don’t miss a thing.

To sum it up, these are the most important attractions to visit during your trip to Bali.

Best temples in Bali

Without a doubt, there is nothing like  Bali temples,  so the first thing you have to do is pinpoint the most important ones.

First Bali Travel Tip: Don’t try to visit all the temples

• Besakih Temple: Mother Temple. The biggest temple in Bali.
• Ulun Danu Beratan:  The most photographed temple in Bali, on Lake Bratan.
• Pura Luhur Uluwatu:  Temple on a cliff. An ideal place to watch the sunset.
• Tanah Lot:  Bali’s most touristy temple, only accessible at low tide.
• Lempuyang Temple:  Temple of the Gates to Heaven.

There are more than 1,000 temples in Bali, so one of the most well known  tips for traveling to Bali  is not to get frustrated if you can’t see them all. Even so, I leave you with a slightly more extensive list of  temples in Bali that I recommend you visit.

Best rice terraces in Bali

The rice terraces are the best of Bali. Rice is the base ingredient in Balinese cuisine, and as such, rural life revolves around the cultivation of this cereal. If you choose the  best time to visit Bali,  you’ll be rewarded with green rice paddies and unforgettable landscapes.

Although there are many rice terraces in Bali, these are the best ones:

Bali Travel Guide (Indonesia): Visiting the Tegalalang is one of the main things to do in Bali

• Tegalalang:  The most popular rice paddies in Bali.
• Jatiluwih:  Considered a World Heritage Site by  UNESCO .

Best villages in Bali

The traditional villages are something you must visit in Bali because they are full of art and good vibes. While there, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to learn more about Balinese culture and traditions.

Ubud market, a must-visit in Bali  

• Ubud:  Bali artistic and cultural center. Check our complete list of things to do in Ubud.
• Penglipuran:  Traditional village ideal for learning about Balinese culture.
• Canggu:  Coastal town very popular for its perfect waves for surfing.

Best beaches in Bali

Taking a  trip to Southeast Asia  and not planning some time at the beach is a sin. Most of Bali’s best beaches aren’t found on the main island, but rather, on the small islands surrounding Bali. These are the beaches that you should not miss.

Kelingking Beach: don’t miss it on your trip to Bali

• Kelingking Beach:  You’ll find some of the best beaches in Bali on the Nusa Islands.
• Balagan Beach:  One of the many turquoise beaches in the Uluwatu area.
• Jimbaran Beach:  The best beach to eat fresh fish with incredible views.
• Pasut Beach:  Black sand beach where you will find a famous crooked palm tree.
• Kuta:  Popular surfing beach among Australian tourists. Party destination.
• Seminyak:  Very popular at sunset, with beautiful beach clubs.

Best volcanoes in Bali

Bali is a volcanic island that has a lot of activity. Additionally, the volcanoes of Bali are not just part of the landscape. The religion, customs, and traditions of the Balinese people are intimately linked with the volcanoes of the island.

Sunrise at Batur Volcano: Best tour to take in Bali

• Mt Batur:  From the summit, you can see the best sunrise in Bali.
• Agung:  Highest volcano in Bali. The last time it erupted was in 2017.

Best waterfalls in Bali

Visiting the waterfalls of Bali is the best way to get out of the stifling heat. You can even take a dip in some of them. Although most are far from the most touristy sites, on  this tour  you can see three of the most important Bali waterfalls.

Include at least one waterfall in your Bali itinerary

• Nung Nung:  Bali’s most popular waterfall, which is 230 ft tall.
• Tukad Cepung:  This waterfall is hidden in a cave.
• Banyumala:  It is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali.
• Tegenungan:  The best waterfall to bathe in in Bali.

Other things to do in Bali

The list is endless! But below you will find the five best things to see in Bali.

Tips for traveling to Bali: Beware of Monkey Forest inhabitants

• Monkey Forest:  The best place to have fun watching the monkeys of Bali.
• Wanagiri Hidden Hill:  Place full of swings, and straw baskets overlooking the great lakes of Bedugul.
• Karang Boma Cliff:  Cliffs located south of Bali from which you can watch the sunset.

In addition, I advise you to use this  map of Bali   to help you figure out where the places we’re talking about are. With this map, you’re totally ready to  plan the best Bali itinerary .

2. Best Bali itinerary

To plan a  trip to Bali , once you know what you want to do and where the different attractions are located, it’s time to choose the  best Bali itinerary . Since the road conditions are not as good as  Google Maps  says, another of our  tips for traveling to Bali  is to leave plenty of time to travel from one place to another.

How many days do you need to visit Bali?

In my opinion, the  minimum number of days to spend in Bali  is four days. With this time and good planning, you can see most of the  essentials places to visit in Bali.  However, unless it’s impossible to book more days for Bali, I recommend you spend at least  one week in Bali.  If you don’t have that much time and still want to visit the landmarks, check out these  top-rated tours in Bali.

One-week Bali itinerary idea

This is  the best Bali itinerary  if you only have 7 days:

• Day 1: Arrive in  Ubud . Beginning of your 7-day Bali trip.
• Day 2: Tegalalang  rice terraces and Ubud surroundings.
• Day 3: Sunset hike at  Batur . The best of my one-week Bali tour.
• Day 4: Eastern Temples of Bali –  Besakih, Lempuyang  and  Tirta Gangga.
• Day 5: Ulun Danu Beratan.  Essential temple to visit in Bali in 7 days.
• Day 6: Taman Ayun Temple,  Tanah Lot  and Canggu.
• Day 7: Jimbaran  and  Uluwatu . End of your trip to Bali in a week.

Best Bali itinerary for one week

10-day Bali itinerary idea

If you only have 10 days, this it the  Bali itinerary I recommend  you do:

• Day 1:  Beginning of your trip to Bali in 10 days.
• Day 2: Batur  sunrise tour.
• Day 3:   Besakih,  Tirta Gangga,  Lempuyang  and Amed.
• Day 4: Tegalalang  and surroundings of Ubud.
• Day 5: Pura Ulun Danu Bratan  and Bedugul waterfalls.
• Day 6: Jatiluwih,  Pasut beach,  Tanah Lot  and Seminyak.
• Day 7: Nusa Lembongan  and Nusa Ceningan.
• Day 8: Nusa Penida.
• Day 9:  Uluwatu.
• Day 10: Jimbaran.

Best 10-day Bali itinerary

  I hope you find these  Bali itinerary ideas  useful !

3. Best time to visit Bali

Many people ask us  when to visit Bali,  and the answer always varies. It’s not the same for someone who’s very interested in seeing green rice paddies as it is for someone whose reason to travel to Bali is to surf, so we tell you in more detail about  the best time to go to Bali  in this article.

Best time to visit Bali if you want to surf

Most agree that  the best time to visit Bali  is from April to November, coinciding with the dry season. The  monsoon in Bali  is from the end of October until April.

What you should know about  the weather in Bali  is that, unlike other places in Southeast Asia, the monsoon on this island is quite mild, so you can consider any time a good time to visit Bali.

The  high season of Bali  is considered July, August, and also Christmas, when many tourists decide to spend the holiday season on this island .

4. Flights to Bali, Indonesia

Once you’re sure about the Bali itinerary you want to take, it’s time to book your  flights to Bali.

In my case, I usually book flights three months in advance, since it is statistically when they are cheapest.

The  Bali airport  that all international flights arrive at is the  Ngurah Rai International Airport,  which is very close to Denpasar, the capital of Bali.

Sometimes, you’ll find it difficult to get  direct flights to Bali.  Most of the time, you will need to make a connection at the Shanghai or Dubai airport.

I usually use Kiwi.com  to find the best combination, since you can activate an alert to be notified if the  price of flights to Bali  drops. The cheapest airline to travel to Bali is usually China Eastern Airlines, although sometimes cheap flights to Bali can also be found with Qatar Airways or Emirates.

In my case, I flew with Qatar but used the following  trick to find cheap flights to Bali .

Cheap flights to Bali

To get the cheapest flights to Asia from the US, you must know they arrive at the airports of Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Kuala Lumpur, so I recommend you take a flight from your home country to one of these airports and from there, take a local flight to Denpasar Airport,  since they are the cheapest connections to Bali.

In addition to getting a cheap flight to Bali, you can visit these cities.

In my case, I flew to  Singapore  before going to Bali and came back through  Kuala Lumpur , and although it was not the cheapest way to get to Bali since I took two one-way flights instead of one round-trip, it was worth it .

5. Where to stay in Bali

If you already know the exact dates of your trip and your Bali itinerary is ready, it’s time to book your  hotels in Bali.

My next  Bali travel tip  is that you stay in Ubud. Although there are plenty of accommodation options in Bali, Ubud is my favorite area if you plan to take some of the essential tours. For example, to  climb Mt. Batur  or visit the  eastern temples , this area is the best. These are my  recommended accommodations in Ubud  according to your budget.

PREMIUM OPTION

Ulun ubud resort.

Ulun Ubud Resort , located in Sanggingan, 3 miles from the Ubud temple, is the perfect hotel for even the most demanding guests. The rooms have a modern Balinese style and your  pool in the middle of the Bali jungle  will make you never want to return from your vacation.

Ulun Ubud Resort

ADIWANA MONKEY FOREST

Adiwana Monkey Forest is located 1 mile from the Ubud market. This hotel has 21 suites, which mix the charm of the Monkey Forest with the indigenous culture of the area.  Wondering where to stay in Bali ? If you want greater immersion in Balinese culture, this is one of the best hotels thanks to its healthy and traditional gastronomic offerings.

Adiwana Monkey Forest

STANDARD OPTION

B saya villas.

B Saya Villas is a complex that has simple, traditional-style villas with wooden furniture. Since it’s located among rice fields, you’ll have fantastic sunset views from your terrace. In addition, every morning, they organize yoga sessions. For me, it’s one of the  best accommodations in Bali , with prices starting at $40 per night.

B Saya Villas

LOW COST OPTION

Teja home stay.

Teja Home Stay is located near the Ubud art market. This family business is one of the  most popular hotels in Bali . It stands out for its garden surrounded by fountains, where you can see exotic birds. It offers rooms from $20 per night with continental breakfast included.

Teja Home Stay

In addition, in the surroundings of Ubud, you can find some of the  best villas in Bali,   at a lower price than you could imagine. If you’ve dreamed of sleeping in the middle of the jungle or enjoying breakfast in your private infinity pool, this is the best place.

Where to stay in Bali: there are luxury villas in Bali for less than $100

Another of the places where I recommend staying for a few days is in the southern area, in Uluwatu, where some of the best  hotels in Bali are located.  Additionally, you’ll get better access to other tourist attractions that are in this area, such as, for example, some of the  best beaches in Bali.  These are our four  recommended accommodations in Uluwatu:

ANANTARA ULUWATU BALI RESORT

Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort is one of the most exclusive accommodations in Bali and is located in a unique enclave near the Pura Uluwatu temple and Nusa Dua beach. The resort offers views of the Indian Ocean from all angles, as well as rooms and villas in a contemporary Balinese style with direct access to an infinity pool and a balcony with jacuzzi.

Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort

RENAISSANCE BALI ULUWATU RESORT & SPA

This modern luxury resort in Bali is surrounded by hills. Both its rooms and the infinity pool have incredible views of the jungle and the ocean. At Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa staff can provide information about the history of the indigenous people in the area, and you can even relax with a spa session.

Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa

TORAJA BAMBU BOUTIQUE HOTEL

As its name suggests, this eleven-room boutique hotel is built with bamboo. Toraja Bambu Boutique promises a totally immersive experience. Its rooms have traditional Indonesian interior and exterior finishes, and overlook the pool and jungle.

Toraja Bambu Boutique

PADANG-PADANG INN

Padang-Padang Inn is a three-star hotel that stands out for its proximity to Padang-Padang beach, famous for its slanting palm tree. A great low-priced option, it has an attractive pool, and car and bicycle rental service.

Padang-Padang Inn

Ubud and Uluwatu  are my two favorites, but there are other  areas to stay in Bali  that I recommend.

6. How to get around Bali

When planning a  trip to Bali,  one of the main concerns is usually the best way to travel around Bali. Here, we bring you four options that will depend a bit on your budget and interests.

Transfers in Bali

Booking  transfers in Bali  can be a good option to  go from Denpasar airport to Ubud  and other areas of the island. However, it can be difficult to book transfers in Bali. If that  is the case, you’ll need to rent your own vehicle or hire a private driver  directly for all the transfers you have to do during the day, which will save you some money.

Even if you plan to  rent a scooter in Bali,  I recommend you don’t do it at Denpasar Airport. It’s better to book a transfer from Bali Airport to Ubud or to the area where you’re going to spend the first day of your trip in Bali and familiarize yourself with traffic before driving.

We booked the first  transfer from Denpasar to Ubud   here,  since the price was the cheapest we found. In addition, we liked our driver so much that we hired him as a private driver for the next few days of our trip to Bali.

Scooter rental in Bali

Dan rode a scooter during his  trip to Bali  and wrote a guide with everything you need to know if you are  renting a motorcycle in Bali.  Some of the  tips for traveling to Bali  that he gives in that guide are:

• Learn how to ride a scooter before traveling to Bali
• Drive like the Balinese if you don’t want the police to fine you
• Take your international driver’s license with you
• Always wear a helmet
• Hire good  travel insurance to Bali

Another of the best Bali travel tips: Hire travel insurance

Car rental in Bali

Renting a car in Bali  is another option, which neither Dan nor I have tried, so we can’t tell you about our experience. However, in my case, I did look at this alternative when I was planning my trip to Bali, and it seemed quite expensive, so in the end, I ended up discarding it.

Also, you should keep in mind that Bali is made for scooters, and traffic jams can sometimes be horrible. If scooters are not your thing, I advise you to  hire a private driver  in Bali before renting your own car.

Private driver in Bali

It is, undoubtedly, the most comfortable option but also the most expensive. Normally you can  hire a private driver in Bali  for hours (10 hours) and during that time, they will take you wherever you need. We had booked a private driver  here,  but when we met our driver during the  transfer from the airport to Ubud , we liked him so much that we canceled the other reservation.

However, some friends, who went on a honeymoon to Bali a few months after my trip, hired the driver through that platform, and they told me the service was great.

GRAB – Uber in Bali

  Before traveling to Bali, Dan recommended I download an app similar to Uber or Lyft and told me that it worked pretty well in Bali for short journeys.

However, I tried to use it during my trip, and there were almost never any drivers nearby.

I could only use it once in Ubud, and the driver told me that  local taxi drivers had declared war on this application,  since the prices were much lower than those that the taxi drivers charged tourists. In any case, I encourage you to try it and tell me how it goes in the comment section.

Public Transportation in Bali

Although  there is public transportation in Bali,  it’s slow, and there is little information about it online. It’s true that it’s the best way to travel to Bali on a budget, but I don’t recommend it if you are going to spend a short time on the island.

The most common means of transport are the  Kura Kura,  small green buses, the  Bemo , a kind of van, and the  Trans Sarbagita,  conventional blue buses.

To know  how to get from one place to another in Bali via local transport , it’s best to check with your accommodation .

7. Best tours in Bali

My next  tip for traveling to Bali,  if you don’t want to rent a car or scooter or hire an expensive private driver either, is to book some tours, especially to those areas of Bali that are more inaccessible or where going with a local guide is mandatory. You will also need to hire tours or ferries to visit one of the archipelagos of paradise islands that surround Bali.

Visiting the Gili Islands   is probably one of the most popular excursions, so we’ve written a small guide to tell you the best things to do and which one to visit. We decided on  Gili Trawangan.

Visiting the Gili Islands is highly recommended during your vacation in Bali

In addition, in this article on the  best tours in Bali ,  I recommend 4 excursions with which you can visit the most important places in Bali in only four days. In summary, these are the Bali tours that I recommend:

• Sunrise on the Batur volcano:  The best tour I did during my trip.
• Ubud Surroundings:  Best tour to visit the rice terraces of Tegalalang and Goa Gajah.
• Pura Ulun Danu Bratan + Jatiluwih + Tanah Lot:  The most complete tour in Bali.
• Eastern Temples:  The tour that won’t miss the Pura Besakih and Pura Lempuyang temples.
• Uluwatu and Jimbaran:  Tour of southern Bali. Beaches, traditional dance, and seafood.
• Nusa Lembongan:  Round-trip speedboat to Nusa Lembongan with pickup at your hotel in Bali.
• Nusa Penida:  Round-trip speedboat to Nusa Penida with pickup at your hotel in Bali.
• Gili Islands:  Round-trip speedboat to Gili Trawangan or Gili Air with pickup at your Bali hotel.

8. Currency in Bali (Indonesia) – How much does it cost for a vacation to Bali

The currency in Bali (Indonesia)  is the Indonesian rupee, and currently, $1 is equivalent to 14,200 IDR. That means you will have to handle much higher figures than you’re used to. Even if everything seems expensive, once you make the currency exchange, it may be much less than you’d imagined.

A trick that I recommend you do is to make a note of the most common exchanges ($1 -14.2k IDR, $2 -28.3k IDR, $5 -70.8k IDR, $10 -142k IDR, $50 -709k IDR, etc.) In this way, over the first days of your trip, you can quickly learn  how much things cost in Bali.

I assure you that in two or three days you’ll have gotten used to Balinese currency and you won’t need to consult your notes anymore.

In most places, you can  pay with a debit/credit card in Bali,  although be careful because your bank can charge you extra for the currency exchange.

However, keep in mind that there are small shops that may not accept card payment. Therefore, it’s always advisable to carry some  cash in Bali.

Currency exchange in Bali

If you plan to ex change money in Bali,  I advise you to check how much the real exchange is before accepting any offer made to you by any  Bali money changers.

ATMs in Bali

There are many  ATMs in Bali , especially in tourist areas. Even if you travel to more remote places, such as the Gili Islands, you’ll still find ATMs on each island.

In addition, ATMs in Bali don’t charge a surcharge fee, so if you withdraw from any ATM in Bali, the only fee you need to pay is the one that your bank charges you.

Prices in Bali

Although it is a cheap country,  Bali is the most touristy island in Indonesia,  so you can find hotels from less than $10 to luxury villas for more than $1000 (there are also  very cheap villas in Bali ). To answer the question of whether  Bali is expensive or cheap  depends more on who answers it than on the island itself.

If you go  backpacking in Bali,  you can survive on less than $10 a day. However, if you’re planning a  honeymoon in Bali , plan at least $200 per person per day.

That’s why  Bali is such a popular tourist destination:  whatever your budget is, it’s a good option.

How much is a Bali vacation?

This table can give you an approximation of  how much it costs for a vacation to Bali.

Consider the  backpacking budget for Bali  if you’re traveling long-term and not spending much is essential for you. If you don’t mind staying in less comfortable hotels and you prefer to use local transport and reach the sights on your own without hiring any tours, your vacation to Bali will cost around $30 per day, plus flights.

The  standard budget  is the one for most travelers in Bali. If you’re visiting the island for a few days and want to see almost everything in a very short time, you’ll need to hire some tours. As for accommodation, if you prefer to book amazing hotels for a very low price that’s impossible to find in other parts of the world, plan $135 per day plus flights.

The  premium budget  is for those who are traveling for a special occasion, honeymoons in Bali, or for all those who can afford it. If you want to experience staying in one of the  best villas in Bali , hire  private tours in Bali  and of course, eat in the best restaurants, plan $270 per day plus flights .

9. Bali visa information

If you are from one of these  169 countries  and are only spending a  holiday in Bali (less than 30 days),  you have visa exception. Just check that your passport doesn’t expire in the next six months from when you enter the country and that you have a couple of blank pages so that they can stamp it and give you an  “admission permit.”

If you want to spend more time, you’ll need a visa for Bali.

Social cultural visa for Indonesia

If you plan to  stay more than 30 days in Bali,  the best option is to process a  social cultural visa for Bali  at the Indonesian embassy in your home country.

This visa will last 60 days, but you can extend it for up to 6 months. The price is $50 plus the renewal fee if you would like to stay for more than 60 days.

You can find more information on how to process your visa  here.

Visa on arrival (VOA)

If you think you’ll stay for less than 30 days in Bali but you aren’t sure, I recommend you apply for your visa on arrival (VOA) at the arrival airport. This visa only allows you to stay in Bali for 30 days, but, one week before it expires,  you can extend it for another 30 days . If you enter Bali without paying the VOA, you will not be able to extend your permit.

The price of the Bali visa on arrival is $35 and you can get it directly at the airport upon arrival. To renew it, you will have to go to immigration several times, so some travelers prefer to hire an agency directly to manage it, although it’s usually more expensive.

Another option, if you’ve run out of time for renewal or did not request your VOA upon your arrival in Indonesia, is to  leave and re-enter the country  (either with the visa exception to Bali or with the VOA). You can do it even on the same day, and you will have another 30 days in Bali, although this is perhaps the most expensive option. In addition, it is very likely that they will ask for your flight out of the country to verify that you don’t intend to stay in Indonesia longer .

10. Is Bali safe to visit?

Although when talking about  security in Bali,  you might think about  terrorist attacks, earthquakes, and tsunamis in Bali , the truth is that this is not what you should worry about.

Apart from natural disasters, which can occur virtually anywhere in the world,  Bali is one of the safest islands in Indonesia.  Even so, you always must take certain precautions.

Both Dan and I have had personal experiences with  accidents in Bali.

During my trip to Bali,  a monkey bit me  in the  Monkey Forest  of Ubud (it wasn’t a serious incident, but I got quite scared). There are also many tourists who have been robbed by these monkeys and those of Uluwatu. They have learned to get food by stealing and then giving back tourists’ belongings.

Be careful with the monkeys and follow our Bali travel tips

On the other hand, a friend of Dan had an  accident with a scooter in Bali . But, luckily, he had bought good  travel insurance to Indonesia  that helped him with everything.

We also have some friends who were robbed of some of the money they had left in their hotel room and others who had their backpack taken while they were eating in a warung (you have to be careful about  pickpockets in Bali ).

It’s also no wonder that you can get sick even if you have been careful enough to  drink bottled water in Bali.

Long story short,  Bali is not dangerous, but you must be careful. If you are traveling on a budget buy the cheapest travel insurance plan.

Bali travel insurance

Although  Bali is safe,  you can always experience unforeseen events, so if you want peace of mind, you should buy  travel insurance to Bali.

We recommend Heymondo , but first, compare the  best travel insurance companies  on the market.

5% OFF your travel insurance

Vaccines in Bali

There are no  mandatory vaccines for Bali,  although the  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  advise getting vaccinated for Tetanus, Hepatitis A, and Typhus. In any case, I always advise you to go to your health center so they can give you some recommendations.

Malaria in Bali

There isn’t a high  risk of malaria in Bali,  although there is in some rural areas of Indonesia. Please share your itinerary with your doctor and check if you need to take malaria tablets for Bali .

Other Bali Travel Tips

Finally, here are some other  Bali Travel Tips.  If you have any other questions, leave them in the comments section, so we can add them to this part of the article.

Where to eat in Bali

The best place to  eat in Bali  is in warungs, small family restaurants where you can try the delicious  cuisine of Bali.

Where to eat in Bali: You can’t miss the best warungs on the island

The best known Balinese recipe is  Nasi Goreng, fried rice with eggs and vegetables that can be accompanied by meat or seafood. I loved it!

The  best restaurants in Bali  that I tried during my trip are located in  Ubud.

Best SIM cards for Bali

It’s very easy to get internet connection in Indonesia . However, if you prefer having mobile data, I recommend you order one of these SIM cards for Indonesia .

Driving in Bali

Riding a motorcycle  is one of the  best options to explore Bali.  However, I recommend you not do so without first following our  advice to rent a scooter in Bali.

Additionally, it’s essential that you get an  International Driver ’ s License for Bali,  since, although you won’t need to show it when renting your scooter, the police can pull you over and fine you without it.

Supermarkets and shops in Bali

If you’re taking a long-term trip to Bali, you may want to cook instead of eating out every day. In this case, I recommend you go to the  local markets  that open in the morning and usually have fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, etc.

There are also  large supermarkets  where you can buy absolutely everything: from personal grooming items to drinks and food. The best known are Coco, Bintang, and Pepito.

You can also find  small local stores  where you can buy a snack or soda — some of these are  open 24 hours a day.

What is the religion in Bali?

Religion in Bali  plays a very important role in local Balinese life. Bali is the only island in Indonesia where  Hinduism is the main religion.  In most parts of Indonesia, most people are Muslims. In Bali, however, “Balinese Hinduism” is practiced, where Hindu and animist beliefs are mixed with the worship of Buddhist saints.

They believe in Karma,  and because of that, Bali is called the “Island of Smiles,” but if you want to learn more about the  culture of Bali,  I recommend  this tour.

Please  respect the religion of Bali and its customs.  You may be surprised at the beginning by the amount of  Canang  sari,  which you will find on the floor, in the temples, and even at the counters of stores and hotel desks.

These offerings are made daily with flower petals, rice, lime leaves, and incense. It is true that they usually attract insects and generate a lot of dirt on the streets of Bali, but they are really important for locals and much less harmful than the plastic waste that others leave.

What clothes to wear in Bali Temples

You don’t need to remove your shoes  before entering a temple in Bali. However, in some temples, you’ll be asked to  cover your legs with a Sarong , whether you are a man or a woman.

A curious fact is that if you are a woman, in some temples, there are signs that ask you not to enter the temple  if you are on your period.

What is the official language of Bali?

The  official language of Bali  is  Indonesian , although  Balinese  is also spoken. A large part of the population  also speaks English,  especially those whose jobs are related to tourism and hospitality.

Where should I stay in Bali?

Ubud  is one of the  best areas to stay in Bali.  In  Kuta  and  Seminyak , there are also many accommodation options, although the best area to stay in luxury resorts in Bali is  Nusa Dua.

Uluwatu  is also a good place to sleep in Bali and visit its best beaches, and other option would be  Bedugul,  to visit the most remote areas of the island.

Responsible tourism in Bali

Finally, I don’t want to end this article on  tips for traveling to Bali  without asking you to be a  responsible traveler.

Please, don’t hire tours in which animals are mistreated. Although there have never been elephants in Bali, it’s a shame to see how there are places with elephants in enclosures that are called “Sanctuaries.” This is done to attract tourists who, while thinking that they’re doing a good deed, are actually promoting a business that’s cruel to animals.

Elephant rides in Bali  are not fun. These poor animals have been tortured for years so that tourists can pay to get on their backs for a while. Any place where you can interact with wild animals is a place where  nature is not respected. Keep wildlife wild!

Please, there are a million  things to do in Bali .  You don’t need to add any activity that involves domesticated wild animals to  make your trip to Bali a unique experience.

Essential Map for your trip to Bali

That’s all! Here is a  map of Bali  that will help you figure out where the main attractions are.

I hope you find this article useful to  plan your trip to Bali , but before you go, here are the essentials for your trip to Bali.

Essentials to save on your trip to Bali

Check the best no-foreign transaction fee credit cards .

Find the BEST DEALS for the top accommodation options in Bali .

Get a 5% discount on your travel insurance for Bali .

Check the best tours in Bali to make the most of your time HERE and HERE .

CHEAP FERRIES from Bali (hotel pick-up not included).

If you have any questions when planning a trip to bali, leave us a comment. See you soon!

Ascen Aynat

8 replies on “ Bali Travel Guide and Tips: How to Plan the Perfect Bali Itinerary ”

I’ve found this information really useful. I cancelled a holiday here several years ago and went to Thailand instead, I absolutely love Thailand but would like to visit Bali after reading the information. It sounds like a week is enough to visit the most important cultural sites and would like to team it with another destination, any suggestions?

There are much more to see within Indonesia apart from Bali. I recommend checking Yogyakarta .

Let me know if you have any questions, Ascen

Great Article. Really useful. You have covered all the things for a perfect vacation.

thanks Raj! Have a nice trip to Bali!

Great article, thanks for sharing this! I visited Bali, Penida and the Gili Islands in February before quarantaine. Their are so much things to do and see on the Islands. I travelled the Islands with The 7 Holiday and they exceeded my expectations! I really had a wonderful and unique experience! The locals are so kind and helpful. I am curious to travel the rest of Indonesia as well.

Thanks for your message Ann, I’m happy you found our Bali travel guide useful!

As you said, there are so many things to do in Bali and surrrounding islands…if we speak about Indonesia you could spend months or even years visiting all the islands and wonders. We’d also love to travel back there and visit new islands, everything over there is so peaceful and beautiful 😉

Awesome article, strike to the point, thanks for sharing

Thank you! I hope you enjoy your trip to Bali 🙂

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BALI IN 6 NIGHTS – THE ULTIMATE BALI TRAVEL GUIDE

When dreaming of Asian adventures, who doesn’t think of Bali? The island of Gods captures the hearts of many travelers, most of them returning a few times a year to soak in the island paradise’s energizing vibe. Whether you are a Bali regular on the hunt for inspiration outside your well known and beloved paths or planning your first trip to one of Indonesia’s most famous islands – you cannot miss our Ultimate Bali Travel Guide, outlining the perfect  6 NIGHTS IN BALI .

Time to get out your holiday notebook!

DAY 1 – UBUD

Welcome to Ubud! Bali’s jungle paradise promises an exciting mix of all things relaxing and outdoorsy. Whether you are the active type whose perfect holiday exists of hiking, cycling and water rafting or if you just want to leave the world behind and sink in a bathtub filled with flower petals – Ubud has you covered.

Once you’re settled in your hotel, go for a stroll around the city center – simply follow Jalan Monkey Forest, to soak in Bali’s enchanting smells for first impressions. Visit the ‘Monkey Forest’ located in a jungle setting with monkeys freely running around. Watch your belongings while venturing around or the jungle creatures will be the new owners of your beloved sunnies and jewels and quickly empty your water bottle.

Venture further to Ubud’s magical Tegallang rice terrace  to soak in the calming and mesmerizing views overlooking the jungle. To complete your first day you can’t miss out on venturing down the Campuhan ridge walk ! To make things easier, you can book an Ubud private tour online  and experience all the Ubud highlights hassle free. 

WHERE TO EAT:

LUNCH:  Folk Kitchen & Espresso  

Address:  Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud Contact:  +62 361 9080 888 Instagram:  @folkubud

When in Ubud, lunching at one of Bali’s best cafés , Folk Kitchen & Espresso, is mandatory! Think an Indonesian head chef with a passion for organic food, interior based on Balinese heritage pieces and a menu overflowing with mouth-watering goodness!

DINNER: Bird’s Nest at Kupu Kupu Barong

Address:  Jalan Kedewatan, Ubud Contact:  [email protected] Instagram: @kupubarong

Spoil your loved one with this outstanding dining experience overlooking the lush rainforest of Northern Bali. ‘Bird’s Nest’ is sitting on the edge, making you feel like you are floating over the Ayung River Valley. Treat yourself to the mouth-wathering dinner menu featuring their famed salmon & sea scallops carpaccio, but also including plenty of vegetarian options.

WHERE TO SLEEP:

Budget:  Sri Ratih Cottages

Address:  Jl. Campuhan 1, Penestanan Kelod, Ubud Contact:  [email protected]

Nestled on the lush outskirts of jungle town Ubud lies Sri Ratih Cottages, a beautiful boutique hotel of 30 rooms with modern Balinese design, a surrounding calming rainforest atmosphere, and the warm hospitality of the staff. The spacious rooms are situated around the inviting waters of the swimming pool which sits at the centre of well-kept tropical gardens, offering a very welcome cool oasis in the tropical heat!

• Prices start from 77US$ per night for a double room including breakfast.

Luxe:  Bisma Eight

Address:  Jl. Bisma, Ubud Contact:  [email protected] Instagram:  @bismaeight

The luxury boutique hotel is set within the natural and cultural heart of Ubud. Rooted in the artisan heritage of central Bali, Bisma Eight is not your usual image of hotels in Ubud. Modern aesthetics of its 38 suites blend in seamlessly with the jungle surroundings – choose between Garden, Canopy and Forest for your enchanted stay. Indulge in Bisma Eight’s fine cuisine with homegrown herbs, veggies and fruits on their rooftop and laze by one of the world’s most tantalising infinity pools.

In-house complimentary activities include amongst others yoga, Balinese dancing classes, leisure cycling and a traditional Balinese cooking class. If you wish to explore more of Bali’s jungle, join their bespoke ‘The Bedugul We Love’ tour!

• Prices start from 217US$ per night for a Garden Suite including breakfast.

DAY 2 – UBUD  

After a night of blissful sleep to the sounds of the jungle, an action-packed day awaits you! Chasing waterfalls is a must-do while staying in Ubud. You are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing where to go but we have you covered. Browse this travel guide to Southeast Asia’s most stunning waterfalls  and have fun picking your favourite Bali ones!

A visit to Ubud wouldn’t be complete without taking part in a yoga class. The calming jungle surroundings and highly certified teachers coming to Ubud from all over the world make sure that passionate yogis but also beginners will have an unforgettable experience. Click  here  to discover the best yoga studios in Ubud.

If you’re after an experience off the beaten tracks, you should treat yourself to high tea at the luxury tents from  Escape Nomade . Being a showroom for their unique products (imagine being able to take one with you on your travels!), they also offer Picnic Lunch and Dining Within Tent experiences!

Never will you have felt more like a true explorer on a jungle safari!

LUNCH:   SARI ORGANIK

Address:  Jl. Subak Sok Wayah, Ubud Bookings:  +62 361 972087 Opening Hours:  Daily, 8am – 8pm

Right next to Café Pomegranate you can find another Ubud must-visit, Sari Organik. Head towards Campuhan bridge when coming from Ubud Palace. Just before the road turns into a green oasis with huge trees hanging over the road, you turn right up a road that looks more like a driveway.

Whether you’re a salad addict (there more than 10 different variations to be found in their extensive menu) or want to share a table loaded with tapa-like dishes, one of the best organic cafés in Bali will have you covered.

DINNER: Kubu at Mandapa – a Ritz Carlton Reserve

Address:  Jalan Kedewatan, Banjar Kedewatan, Ubud Contact:  [email protected] Instagram: @kubuatmandapa

Named after the traditional huts used by Balinese rice farmers, Mandapa’s signature dinner-only venue Kubu is a must-visit if you’re looking for a dreamy setting next to the soothing Ayung river combined with state-of-the-art fine dining Mediterranean-European cuisine. You can choose between sophisticated a-la-carte options or specially tailored degustation menus. A must-try: their Wagyu beef rib eye with braised tongue, celeriac and truffle jus. Book a table early when you’re after being seated in one of their signature cocoons.

Budget:    Calma Ubud

Address:  Jl Tirta Tawar, Br Kutuh Kaje, Ubud Contact: [email protected] Instagram: @calma_ubud

Situated near a tranquil Balinese village only a few minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Ubud, this unique private resort sits effortlessly amongst nature, overlooking a lush valley, emerald green rice terraces and spectacular sunsets. Calma Ubud’s ten individually styled guest rooms and suites deliver a warm and welcoming family atmosphere. Contemporary tropical architectural features combined with Balinese craftsmanship and a careful attention to detail, make it your blissful home away from home!

• Prices start from 107US$ per night for a double room including breakfast.

Luxe:   Four Seasons Sayan

Address:  Jl. Raya Sayan, Sayan, Ubud Contact:  +62 (361) 977577 Instagram: @fsbali

If you are looking  to revitalize in a lush and intimate paradise in pure luxury, the resort’s 18 spacious suites and 42 private villas reflecting the island’s natural, serene beauty will have you covered. Each of Four Seasons Sayan’s suites and villas are a beautiful design blend of contemporary and traditional Balinese pieces. Get lost in their 7 hectare garden sanctuary where you can find up to 1,000 different bird species and join one of their Full moon yoga lessons –  purnama  is a sacred day in Bali, when Balinese-Hindus honor ancestral gods and thank them for their protection with offerings and ceremonies across the island.

• Prices start from 498US$ per night for a one bedroom suite.

Skip a busy night out and get an early night’s sleep – as you will have to get up at 2am the next morning!

It’s almost unforgivable to skip climbing one of Bali’s volcanoes. You can book a fully guided tour  including hotel pick up and drop-off, breakfast, flash lights and a dedicated personal tour guide. The ascent at  Mount Batur only takes between 1.5 and 2 hours and happens during the night – think fresh mountain air so don’t forget to bring along warm clothing.  Greet the new day with sunrise and a sparkle in your eyes!

Enjoy the scenic ride back to your hotel and take a well-deserved nap before venturing to hip and buzzing coastal town Seminyak.

DAY 3 – SEMINYAK  

Leave the quietness of the jungle behind and venture to Seminyak – one of Asia’s hippest food and shopping meccas located along Bali’s west coast.

Whether you decide to play it low and spend the day at one of Bali’s Best Beach Clubs or you shop up a storm along Jalan Oberoi and Jalan Raya Seminyak – the buzzing coastal town will have you covered.

Our MUST-DO’s on an afternoon in Seminyak:

1. It would be a crime to not go café hopping in Seminyak – click here to browse Bali’s 30 best cafés for never-ending inspiration!

2. A Bali holiday would also not be complete without shopping up a storm at the amazing Bali-based and brands the island has to offer.

Address:  Jl. Laksmana 54, Seminyak Opening Hours: Daily,   9.30am – 9.30pm Instagram: @beachgoldbali

This family-run resort wear brand with a garment history of over 25 years in Indonesia and focus on responsible, ethical and socially conscious practices, creates all designs and the pieces itself in Bali, supporting local garment and textile artisans. It’s very likely you might find yourself leaving the store with packed bags – as their chic yet casual pieces are easy-to-wear everyday wardrobe staples. Take the Bali holiday feeling home with you with their soft flowing hand printed voiles, crepes and locally spun fabrics which form the basis for all of their collections.

SANCERRE THE BRAND

Address:  Jalan Seminyak 2A (Corner of Kunti) ,  Jalan Kayu Jati 2A (close to Grocer & Grind) and  Jalan Batu Belig (next to Watercress) Opening Hours:  Daily,   9.00am – 9.00pm Instagram: @sancerre_bali

Sancerre brings the spirit of international, bohemian wanderlust into every day style, inspired by the creative and beautiful tropical lifestyle of their island home, Bali. Sancerre, which was born from a journey through France and a gift of a medallion, and offers high-quality but affordable style essentials – all using only the best materials showcasing the unique artistry of Indonesian craftsmanship. Their bright Seminyak shops provide a romantic setting to spend some time trying on hand embroidered kaftans or embellished dresses and tops perfect for casual wear or for dressing up on a night out. A must buy for many visitors are the bright and colourful Sancerre original Chandi bracelets sterling silver charms – the original Sancerre product and where the story begun.

Address:  Jl. Munduk Catu No. 1, Canggu (next to Gypsy Bali) Opening hours: Daily, 10am – 9pm Instagram: @les.basics

If you’re after a more sophisticated and trendy Bali souvenir than the usual, you cannot go past Les Basics store in Canggu. Founded by the Bali-based, French-Canadian babe Frédérique Lessard , you’ll find plain wardrobe staples (think linen, super soft cotton and bamboo fabric) and the iconic “The Sunday Life” print you’ll surely have come across when venturing around Canggu. Also stocking the island’s finest bikini, leather and jewellery brands, it’s a one-stop destination for stepping up your holiday wardrobe game.

Get a massage at SPRING SPA

Address:  Jl. Kayu Jati No.8, Seminyak Contact: Click here to book an appointment. Instagram: @spring_spa

Voted Asia’s Best Day Spa in the 2016 World Spa Awards, you can cannot go past this pamper paradise with its airy above-the-clouds feeling! Bring your best friend and take your mani-and-pedi appointment to the next level whilst indulging in one of their detoxing juices. You won’t help but Instagram the experience in their clean yet sophisticated interior!

Grab a sunset drink at THE LAWN CANGGU

Address: Click here for the exact location on Batu Bolong beach. Contact:  [email protected] Instagram: @thelawncanggu

When venturing around the Gu, sunsets on  The Lawn  cannot be missed. Recently re-opened, it still has its signature beanbags and outdoor carpets on – well, the lawn – making it the perfect go-to place for a boho picnic, or simply lounging gracefully with a coconut in your hand.

Enjoy their delicious selection of lunch and dinner options (our favourite: truffled Mac’n’Cheese balls!) in their seated dining area or score a front row seat on their rooftop – prime views of the surf guaranteed!

WHERE TO EAT  

LUNCH: Milk & Madu  

Address:  Jl. Raya Pantai Berawa No.52, Canggu Instagram: @milkandmadu

Super Brekky Bowl for breakfast, Mexican Salad for lunch and a wood-oven fired pizza for dinner? Milk & Madu makes sure to deliver the goods for every meal of the day and has you covered with their savoury and generous plates made from the heart. Located in central Berawa it’s only a short drive from both Canggu and Seminyak.

Grab your friends and head to their newly opened venue  Ulekan  to indulge in mouthwatering Indonesian cuisine in a stunning interior setting just off Jalan Pantai Berawa in Canggu.

DINNER:    Barbacoa

Address:  Jalan Petitenget 14, Seminyak Contact:  [email protected] Instagram: @barbacoabali

As soon as you step into this spacious warehouse setting, you will be inspired by its unique mosaic tiled floors and loft-style design. Try stopping in for lunch to enjoy the beautiful green backyard views! Located on Jalan Petitenget, Barbacoa specialises in BBQ wood fired and charcoal meats with a Mexican influence.  We advise to book a table in advance if you don’t want to miss out on an amazing dinner in a lively atmosphere!

Budget: Uma Karan

Address:  Jalan Bidadari III / 8, Seminyak Contact:  [email protected] Facebook: Uma Karan Seminyak

If a friend asked you to describe the unique boutique hotel Uma Karan in four words they would be chic, affordable, friendly and location. Earthy, natural materials blend in seamlessly with calming colours used around the property. A sun drenched bathroom with skylight roof, wide living spaces and a bed with high quality bedding and linen, make sure you have a blissful retreat in the heart of busy Seminyak.

• Prices start from 75US$ per night for a double room.

Luxe: One Eleven Bali

Address:  Jl. Pangkung Sari No.3, Seminyak Contact: [email protected] Instagram: @111resorts

Book yourself into one of these nine 1-bedroom villas located just off the main street in Seminyak at One Eleven Bali if you want to be close to all hotspots yet be able to retreat to your own spacious private villa with a pool and in-villa spa. Offering impeccable service in the surroundings of stunning interior design, you cannot go past One Eleven when looking for a place to stay with your loved one in downtown Seminyak.

• Prices start from 440US$ per night for a one bedroom villa with private pool including breakfast.

Browse more stunning villas in our  15 Best Seminyak Villas  list!

DAY 4 – SEMINYAK 

After indulging in breakfast – most likely consisting of mouthwatering smoothie bowls with a fresh coconut – discover the adventurous side in you and rent a scooter to beat traffic. Don’t worry – it looks more hectic than it actually is, think ‘organised chaos’.

The perfect day around Seminyak has to include:

• Relaxing at one of Bali’s famed beach clubs treating yourself to afternoon beachfront cocktails or retreat to your own private villa pool  to get lost in your latest novel.
• Venturing to the hip neighbouring surfer town Canggu offering a plethora of healthy cafés, beach bars and sunset spots. 
• Joining a yoga lesson – from Ashtanga to Bikram, Seminyak’s has some of  the island’s best yoga studios waiting for you to get bendy.
• Taking a beginners surfing lesson. Most of Bali’s west coast beaches along Seminyak and Legian offer great conditions for surf newbies. Simply ask a local surfboard rental to help you out!

BREAKFAST:   Elgin Avenue  

Address:  Jalan Mertanadi, Kerobokan Instagram: @elginavenue

Hop on your scooter and treat yourself to a meal at Elgin Avenue Café, just around the corner from famed Jalan Petitenget. Be prepared to find a well-thought-out menu with brunch classics as well as their signature Crispy Eggs Benedict (you’ll be spoilt for life) along with some of the best coffee you’ll have during your Bali holiday!

LUNCH: Saigon Street Bali 

Address:  Jalan Petitenget No. 77X, Seminyak Contact: Click here to book a table. Instagram: @saigonstreetbali

Situated in the heart of dining street Petitenget, Saigon Street Bali serves traditional Vietnamese dishes from the streets of Saigon and Hue with a never-seen-before twist. The healthy and light to-be-shared dishes will excite your taste buds whilst you soak up the 80ies vibe surrounded by the photogenic settings of the bright Saigon lights.

DINNER:   Urchin Raw & Grill 

Address:  Jalan Laksmana 22, Seminyak Contact:  [email protected] Instagram: @urchin_bali

Located in the front of Seminyak institution The Colony Hotel, Urchin offers an innovative seafood menu (note: lobster roll), with beautifully crafted raw dishes. Its grilled meats are also sensational in appearance and on the palate. The restaurant features an inviting open kitchen, allowing you to sit back sipping your personal sommelier recommended wine while watching the master chefs in action.

Budget: Brown Feather

Address:  Jalan Batu Belig No.100, Seminyak Instagram: @thegalahotels

This unique, eco-friendly designed boutique hotel is located on up and coming shopping and dining strip Jalan Batu Belig, just around the corner from downtown Petitenget. Retreat from Seminyak’s hustle and bustle into the tranquil environment of this exotic location even while relaxing in your room. Take your relaxation to the next level with a warm bubble bath using the Brown Feather house-range amenities! A sandy brownstone exterior adorned with lush greenery and hints of vivid local flora welcomes you to this private boutique oasis in Seminyak.

• Prices start from 50US$ per night for a double room.

Luxe:    The Colony Hotel  

Address:  Jl. Laksmana No.22, Seminyak Contact:  [email protected] Instagram: @thecolonyhotelbali

Located in a prime Seminyak location, a mere 120metres from the beach and only around the corner from busy Oberoi street, make The Colony Hotel Bali the perfect place to stay. Whether you decide to explore beach-side or go shopping crazy (no one blames you, it’s Bali after all!), you can always retreat to your heavenly sanctuary within a few minutes walk or cab ride. Choose from a large selection of different room types such as Superior Room and Grand Suite and treat yourself to a famed ‘Dancing Fingers’ within the boutique hotel after a long day!

• Prices start from 140US$ per night for a superior room.

DAY 5 – ULUWATU 

Pay a visit to your favorite Bali café  on your last morning in Seminyak – your body and mind will thank you later! H aul a registered BlueBird taxi or order your usual #Uber to venture down south to Bali’s Bukit peninsula. Beach paradise awaits!

Spend the rest of the day soaking in the dazzling clifftop views and watch the sun set on the endless horizon – find our two favourites for Bali’s best views below!

Coco & Poké at Single Fins 

Address: Single Fin, Pantai Suluban, Jl. Labuan Sait, Uluwatu Instagram: @cocopokebali

Located within iconic Single Fin, this newly added yumminess outlet serves traditional poke bowls, salad bowls and the world’s first vegan and bio-fermented coconut soft serve, CocoWhip. Grab your lunchtime favourite and enjoy the insane views over the soaring cliffs and blue waters of Uluwatu, pro surfers included!

Address:  Jl. Pantai Cemongkak, Uluwatu Contact:  +62 85100803416 Instagram: @elkabronbali

Perched 50 meters above sea level on the cliffs of Uluwatu, El Kabron Spanish Restaurant Cliff Club has one of the most secluded sunsets on the island of gods. Get ready to experience a truly Spanish atmosphere including Ibiza house music vibes and delicious seafood, paella and tapas dishes as well as a breathtaking 180-degree view of the Indian Ocean. With 365 days of astonishing sunsets, you cannot miss out on this exquisite Spanish dinner experience in one of Bali’s prime locations, and chill till late to international tunes.

Budget: Melali Bingin  

Address:  Jalan Melali, Gang Pirta, Bingin Contact:  [email protected] Instagram: @melalibingin +

This hidden gem is only a short walk from beautiful Bingin Beach and offers two unique sunset suites as well as one private pool villa. When entering the boutique stay through its large Balinese wooden door, a lush tropical garden, an inviting pool and the warm smiles of their friendly staff awaits you. You shouldn’t miss their breakfast: with a large variety from smoothie bowls to smashed avocado. This will be one of your best Bali meals!

Tucked away on a local street, it’s the perfect place to relax, unwind and feel at home away from home.

• Prices start from 105US$ per night for a sunset suite.

Luxe:   Uluwatu Surf Villas

Address: Jalan Pantai Suluban, Uluwatu Contact:  [email protected] Instagram: @uluwatusurfvillas

You have come to the right place if you’re after luxury Balinese style accommodation overlooking world class surf breaks and Indian ocean sunsets. The six villas (3- and 4-bedroom options) as well as their bungalow, loft room and two suit rooms leave plenty of choice for the perfect accommodation type – romantic getaway or surf trip with friends?

Treat yourself to delicious in-villa dining, hop in their salt water pools for a sunset swim after you climbed the private beach access back up, most likely with one of their free rental surfboards in hand. Must-Do: join their Morning Light Yoga class to fully relax and unwind.

• Prices start from 150US$ per night for a suite room.

DAY 6 – ULUWATU 

Be prepared for a full day of beach hopping, feasting and exploring! Hop on your scooter (don’t forget to wear a helmet!) and discover Bali’s white sandy beaches with glistening blue waters – you will be spoilt for choice with our 10 BEST BEACHES IN BALI guide.

MUST-DO’S IN ULUWATU:

1. Spend the day at Sundays Beach Club . Dreaming of Bali evokes pictures of white sandy beaches and glistening waters – a t one of Bali’s best beach clubs this dream becomes reality. The luxury beach front oasis offers the most picturesque backdrop for the perfect day out in Bali with a food menu to-die-for!

2. Go sun baking and for a swim at Thomas Beach for the ‘hidden gem’ feel and its picturesque shot from above. 

3. Take a beginners surf lesson at Bingin Beach  – for the non-surfers, rent snorkelling gear or a stand up paddle board.

4. Visit the ancient Hindu Uluwatu Temple.  Watch out for the cheeky monkeys!

5. Join the crowd at hip surfer hangout Single Fin’s for the incredible view and treat yourself to a cocktail while watching the sun set over the horizon.

Budget:   Le Yanandra Bali

Address: Jalan Pantai Balangan, Uluwatu Contact:  [email protected] Instagram: @le_yandandra_bali

Located a mere 300 metres from pictures Balangan beach, lies this bungalow accommodation paradise. Built with typically Balinese materials combined with a French touch, you’ll quickly feel at home when lounging on your private terrace over looking the pool. Their luxury bungalows accommodates up to 4 people, making it the perfect choice for a friends getaway! Sit back, relax and enjoy the prime sunset views from their lounge!

• Prices start from 113US$ per night for a bungalow.

LUXE:   THE UNGASAN CLIFFTOP RESORT

Address:  Jalan Pantai Selatan Gau. Ungasan 80362 Bali, Indonesia Bookings:  [email protected] Instagram:  @theungasan

The Ungasan Clifftop Resort offers one of the most stunning, undisturbed views over Bali’s mesmerising coastline and beyond. Offering a selection of 7 unique villas, tennis court, putting green, helicopter pad, 2 amazing restaurants, gym with a view, Vela Spa as well as one of  Bali’s best beach clubs   Sunday’s Beach Club  – this has to be your best choice when travelling to Bali’s south.

Get pampered by their dedicated personal service in a pure luxury setting within your private accommodation. Whether you are planning a family getaway, your wedding with the most stunning backdrop, or simply seek to unwind in discreet luxury by spoiling yourself with a stay in one of their 1-bedroom villas – The Ungasan will make sure your holiday in Bali will be unforgettable.

• Prices start from 550US$ per night for a one bedroom garden villa.

DAY 7 – ULUWATU 

Time flies when you are having fun! On your last day in Bali it’s all about soaking in the island’s best before bidding farewell!

• Treat yourself to a spa treatment at Senses Spa at La Joya Biu Biu . Must-Do and one of the most iconic Bali photo opps:  book 30mins in their stunning and famous jaccuzi atop the cliff.
• Go for a last dip in the ocean at picturesque Balangan beach with its photogenic row of palm trees offering the perfect backdrop for a last nostalgic snap.
• Have a smoothie, coffee or ice cold Bintang and watch the surfing at  Blue Point Beach .
• Treat yourself to one last Bali dinner at Di Mare restaurant at Karma Kandara . 

The best way to make the most out of your time in Bali is with Klook experiences . It’s your one stop tour shop for just about everything you can do in Bali for the best price and convenience.

HUNGRY IN BALI – THE ULTIMATE BALI DINING GUIDE WITH UNIQUE PRIVILEGES

Our guide directs you and your travel partners in crime to Bali’s 60 hottest must-visit venues as well as 3 heavenly spas that cannot be missed across Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud and the Bukit Peninsula.

But the best is yet to come – each venue offers a unique privilege when presenting your  HUNGRY IN BALI   premium print hard copy  or  e-book  before ordering. Receive 2-for-1 main dishes and spa treatments, complimentary cocktails, free cake and ice cream (you heard right!) and many more unique privileges across Bali’s best restaurants, hippest cafes, trendiest beach clubs and most relaxing spas.

So we not only guide you to the hottest places in Bali – but we also help you to  save up to 10 00USD  on your Bali trip! Keep on reading for a sneak peek into  HUNGRY IN BALI ‘s unique privileges that will await you at the island’s most famed venues.

KEEP ON GETTING INSPIRED

THE BEST WELLNESS RESORTS IN BALI

THE BEST LUXURY VILLAS IN ULUWATU

THE BEST FINE DINING RESTAURANTS IN DUBAI

THE BEST WEDDING VENUES IN THAILAND

Bali is a place people picture when they hear the word “paradise.” You know, white-sand beaches lined with coconut palms and crystalline waters. You might be surprised arriving in Bali how unlike this the tourist areas are, but all the more reason to get out of the madness of Kuta, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua. The highlands, west Bali, and the east coast have so much natural beauty and culture to offer. And the people of Bali are some of the most fcommunity-minded folks you’ll ever meet.

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Photo By Tukang Photo Stock/Shutterstock

When’s the best time to go to Bali?

Bali has only two seasons, wet and dry. From September to April it rains—not monsoonlike as in India, but rainstorms are common most afternoons. May through August is drier and sometimes called “kite season” because of the cool breezes. Mid-December to mid-January and June to September are popular with tourists, which means higher prices and sometimes heavy traffic.

How to get around Bali

Ngurah Rai International Airport is the only airport in Bali. It’s located in Tuban, next to the tourist hub of Kuta, and about 15 to 20 minutes from the resorts of Nusa Dua and Jimbaran. The town of Ubud is about an hour away depending on traffic and time of day, but a new toll road opened in 2013, and it shaves off about 20 minutes, if your driver uses it.

Bali has become an island packed full of motorbikes and cars. Only recently has the government introduced public buses, but the system isn’t of much use to tourists, as the buses only go up and down the main bypass. The best ways to get around are to rent a motorbike or hire a driver with a car. A motorbike should cost no more than $4 a day, and a car with driver will cost about $45 for a whole day. If you do choose to ride a motorbike, wear a helmet and be aware that many of Bali’s drivers don’t take road laws all that seriously.

Can’t miss things to do in Bali

The rice terraces of Jatihluwih are often missed by tourists but offer one of the most breathtaking sights in Bali. Take a walk along the paths and stop at one of the tiny warungs selling drinks. Breathe in the wonderful, cool, fresh air. This is Bali at its most natural.

Food and drink to try in Bali

With a primarily Hindu population, Bali’s food centers around pork. Ceremonial dishes like lawar (a spicy chopped pork, vegetable, and coconut mixture) and babi guling (spit-roasted suckling pig) are the most traditional of Bali’s dishes, but many elements of Indonesian cuisine are also used. Food cooked in Balinese homes can be oily and spicy, but restaurants and hotels often serve more westernized versions that are easier on the belly. For vegetarians, delicious tofu, tempeh, and vegetable dishes are available everywhere. Street food like satay, martabak (an omelette with vegetables or meat inside), and boiled or grilled corn are cheap and sold everywhere. Arak and tuak are the local tipples, made by tapping palm trees, but quality and taste vary greatly.

Culture in Bali

Offerings are laid daily in the morning and evening to appease the gods and spirits that the Balinese believe exist in every part of nature. In addition to the numerous village temples, each house has its own temple. Dance, music, painting, and carving are important arts, practiced the same way they have been for centuries. Some say the island’s culture is being watered down by tourism, but in every part of Balinese life, community—meaning temples and ceremonial duties—continue to come first before all else.

Bali is an island constantly buzzing with ceremonies and festivals. Not a day goes by when you don’t see people in their temple clothes carrying offerings somewhere. The most important festival is Galungan, held every 210 days. On this day the gods descend to check that everyone is behaving and then ascend 10 days later on Kuningan. Temples are adorned and piled high with offerings, and the streets are lined with penjor (tall bamboo poles decorated outside each house). Balinese New Year, or Nyepi, which usually falls in March, is also a very important day.

Practical Information

- Visa requirements vary depending on your citizenship but Americans traveling to Bali just need a passport--unless they’re staying longer than 30 days. - The Balinese people usually speak both Balinese and Indonesian. - The currency is the Indonesian Rupiah. - As for plugging in your hair dryer or chargers, the voltage is 230V which works on appliances that range from 220V to 240V, but you’ll need a two-pin plug adapter.

Local travel tips for Bali

Bargaining is expected when you shop in Bali, but sometimes visitors think this means getting the price down as low as you possibly can. Yes, sellers see a foreign face and start ridiculously high, but do agree to a price that is mutually beneficial. Mentally set the price you wouldn’t mind paying, then walk away if you don’t get that price.

Guide Editor

Hannah Wijana

Bali Travel Guide

Bali Indonesia is travel heaven for luxury seekers and budget backpackers alike. There's something for everyone here.

Adventure lovers in Bali will have easy access to waterfalls , jungles, cliffs, volcanoes, and more. Or, if you're the more laid back type, Bali has beaches , temples , and rice terraces for you, along with an endless supply of good restaurants and massages.

If any of that sounds nice, then you will fall in love with Bali and its people. Read through this complete Bali travel guide for more info on what to expect!

Quick Facts

Indonesian, Balinese & English

Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

Ngurah Rai International (DPS)

Visa free access or VOA for 160+ countries

Tropical; warm & humid year round. Dry season is April - Nov

Power Plugs

Grab , Go-Jek

Where Is Bali?

First things first -- where is Bali on the world map?

Bali is a small island located in the country of Indonesia (in Southeast Asia). Indonesia is made up of more than 17,000 islands, and it's surrounded by Malaysia , the  Philippines , Papua New Guinea, and Australia.

Bali is a fairly small island, located just to the right of  Java , the 5th largest island in Indonesia. These two islands—Bali and Java—were connected by land in centuries past.

Location of Bali in Indonesia (© Wikimedia)

Bali island has a modern and efficient airport nowadays. In fact, it's one of my favorite airports in Southeast Asia! Based on customer satisfaction levels, the Bali airport was even rated the world's third best by Airport Council International in 2016.

The Denpasar International Airport (code: DPS) is also known as Ngurah Rai International Airport. It served more than 24 million passengers in 2019, but everything is operated quite smoothly so you'd never know the airport is that busy!

There are direct flights to Bali from Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and other places around the world.

Unfortunately, there are still no direct flights from the United States to Bali, but American travelers can transit through places like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Taipei, or Tokyo first, and then hop on a connecting flight to Bali.

Shop Now: Bali flights at Skyscanner

Bali is a tropical island, so the weather is hot and humid year round.

It has a rainy season that runs from November to April, and a dry season that runs from April to November. It’s still very possible to visit Bali in the rainy season, but give yourself some buffer days in case of bad weather.

The best time to visit Bali depends on what you’re looking for. The nicest weather is during the dry season, when it's generally sunny and windy.

However, Bali is less crowded during the wet season, and the rain is mostly in the evenings or at night, so it's usually not too disruptive anyway.

The famous Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Ubud, Bali

Is Bali Safe?

Bali is a very safe place to travel. Violent crime is rare, and murders are almost unheard of. Drive-by phone snatchings do happen from time to time, so just remember to put away your phone when you’re by a busy road with passing motorbikes.

The biggest safety risks in Bali and Indonesia are probably motorbike accidents and natural threats. I’d stay away from motorbikes here unless you’re an experienced driver in Southeast Asia.

There are several types of venomous snakes in Bali , but they're not common to see in the tourist areas, even if you go hiking. If you see a snake, treat it with caution!

Bali was visited by more than 6 million people in 2019, making it the most popular tourist destination in Indonesia by a long shot (although there are lots of other great  islands and places to visit in Indonesia ).

The Balinese locals are known for their warmth, and they’re very friendly and welcoming to foreigners.

The Ulun Danu Bratan Temple on a lake is one of Bali's most iconic landmarks.

It's really easy to travel Bali on a budget, with hostels available from 75k Rupiah ($5 USD) and private hotels from 150k . Meals are also cheap, costing as little as 15k to 75k Rupiah ($1 to $5 USD) in some 'warungs' (little family owned restaurants).

Transportation in Bali is generally by motorbike or car, and these can be rented, but hiring a private driver is also cheap, safe, and convenient.

I'd also recommend downloading the transportation apps Grab and Go-Jek ; these are great for short taxi rides and getting around in town. You can even order food with the apps and have it delivered to your hotel.

The locals in Bali speak mainly the Indonesian and Balinese languages, although many of them are also fluent in English.

You definitely don’t need to learn Indonesian to visit Bali, although it’s polite and fun to learn at least a little bit of Bahasa.

Things To Do In Bali

There’s something in Bali for every kind of traveler.

Adventure lovers will have access to all kinds of hikes and scenery, with  waterfalls , jungles, cliffs,  volcanoes , and more. You can do rafting, ATVs, jet skiing, hot air balloons, and scenic helicopter flights.

Or, if you’re the more laid back type, Bali has  beaches , clubs, markets,  temples , and  rice terraces  for you, along with an endless supply of good restaurants and massages. The local food is amazing, and you can also find lots of western food as well.

Wildlife can be seen at places like the  Ubud Monkey Forest , the  Mason Elephant Park ,  Bali Zoo , Bali Bird Park,  Bali Butterfly Park ,  Bali Sea Turtle Society , and West Bali National Park. You can also go snorkeling or scuba diving and see all kinds of colorful fish and coral.

You can find a wide variety of nice handmade crafts in Bali like wood carvings, paintings, and rattan bags, and Bali is also known for coffee beans, spices, oils, lace, ceramics, and silverworks.

See the sections below for more ideas of what to do in Bali.

Waterfalls In Bali

Bali has dozens of nice waterfalls to see in every corner of the island, and many of them are easy to reach from popular areas like Ubud.

Some of the best waterfall hikes in Bali are well known tourist spots, while others are hidden gems with no people. North Bali has many of the biggest waterfalls on the island.

The most famous waterfall in Bali is Tegenungan Waterfall , but it's not really the greatest. Two of our favorites are Sekumpul Waterfall and Banyumala Waterfall.

Read More:  Bali Waterfalls Guide

Bali has dozens of nice waterfalls to see

Bali Beaches

In spite of what some people might say, Bali does have great beaches, but the very best beaches in Bali aren’t exactly obvious to the tourist crowds.

The really amazing ones are waiting in remote corners of the island, or hiding at the bottom of rocky cliffs, so you have to track them down and find them with some effort, but that’s all part of the fun.

The majority of Bali’s most spectacular beaches are in the Uluwatu area (far south coast) or on  Nusa Penida , a small island that’s considered part of Bali and  can be reached pretty easily on your own  or even  on a day trip .

Read More:  Bali Beach Guide

There are some beautiful beaches in Bali , especially in Uluwatu and Nusa Penida .

Bali Temples

In contrast to most of Indonesia, which is generally Muslim, Bali is a Hindu-majority island.

There are dozens of old Hindu temples to explore in Bali, and most of them are open to tourists as long as you're respectful.

The architecture and history behind some of these is pretty neat, so it’s a good idea to see at least a couple of them on your trip to Bali.

In my opinion, the most interesting temples are in Ubud and the surrounding area.

Read More:  Bali Temple Guide

Nusa Penida Island

The beautiful, exotic island of Nusa Penida lies just 25 kilometers from Bali.

This is a much smaller island than Bali, but it has some of the most amazing scenery in the entire Bali province (which it’s part of).

The island can be visited on a day trip from Bali (same day return), but I think it’s better to stay and spend at least a few days sightseeing. There are so many good photo spots, hikes, and other things to do in Nusa Penida!

Read More:  Nusa Penida Island

The T-Rex shaped Kelingking Cliff in Nusa Penida is one of the most famous views anywhere in Bali.

Areas Of Bali

Tourism in Bali is divided into a handful of main areas, each with their own vibe and personality:

• Kuta. The center of noisy mass tourism and overdevelopment. You won't find peace and quiet here, but it's a popular place for shopping and nightlife. • Canggu. The popular new hangout for young people and digital nomads. Canggu is known for surfing and all kinds of hip cafes and beach bars. • Seminyak. One of the most expensive areas of Bali. It's a west-facing beach area with nice sunsets, luxury hotels, villas, and spas, as well as high-end shopping and restaurants. • Ubud . The main cultural center and heart of the island. Ubud is full of interesting markets, palaces, jungles, and temples to see, and of course lots of great cafes, restaurants and comfy luxury hotels. • Sanur . A more laidback beachside town, which is known for being one of the most quiet and family friendly areas of Bali. Great sunrises. • Uluwatu . A scenic, hilly area in the southwest corner of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula. It’s named for a famous temple perched on the cliffs. This area is known for its blue waves, white sand beaches, impressive sea cliffs, quality surfing, and fancy beach clubs. • Nusa Dua. A family friendly resort area in the far southeast corner of Bali. This area is known for fancy hotels and nice white sand beaches.

Destinations

Pick an area of Bali to start exploring!

Central Bali

Nusa penida, bali by drone, where to stay.

Some top hotel picks in Bali Indonesia

Bali is known for its hotel industry, with lots of comfy accommodation to fit every budget, from backpackers to luxury travelers.

Most tourists stay in the Kuta area for nightlife and shopping, Ubud for cultural sights and rice terraces, Canggu for hip cafes, and Uluwatu for beaches and surfing, while the Sanur area is known for being quiet and family friendly.

Here are some hotel recommendations for your first trip to Bali:

The Kayon Resort (Ubud)

Adiwana unagi suites (ubud), umah dajane guesthouse (ubud), tempekan hotel (uluwatu), green escape eco resort (uluwatu), villa santai (uluwatu).

This Bali travel guide contains affiliate links. Whenever you buy something through one of these, I may get a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

As an affiliate, I only recommend products and services that I feel are high quality and helpful to my readers.

Nusa Penida Guide

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Feel free to contact me if you have travel questions, comments, or suggestions! I'll try to get back to you!

Bali   Travel Guide

Why Go To Bali

Known as the "Island of the Gods" for its devotion to Hinduism – best seen in its many temples, scattered across the whole island – Bali is something of a heaven on earth. Smoking volcanoes wrapped in green canopies, sandy shores fading into turquoise waters and cascading waterfalls surrounded by jungle make up the landscape here, and it rarely disappoints.

There's something for everyone in this lush, exotic paradise – from luxury travelers who come for the oceanfront resorts to adventurers looking to scale one of several volcanoes (including the famous Mount Batur, in Kintamani ). In the south, resort towns such as Kuta , Seminyak , Canggu and Uluwatu boast buzzing nightlife, trendy beach clubs and world-class surfing, while the north offers plenty for culture vultures and those looking to see less touristy spots.

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• # 5 in Best Honeymoon Destinations for 2024
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Best of Bali

Best hotels in bali.

• in Capella Ubud- Bali
• in The Elysian Boutique Villa Hotel
• in Villa de daun

Best Things to Do in Bali

• # 1 in Kuta
• # 2 in Nusa Dua
• # 3 in Kintamani

Popular Tours

? Nusa Penida by Private Boat - Snorkeling 4 spots, Swim with Mantas + Land Tour

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from $ 107.50

All-Inclusive Ubud Private Tour

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from $ 90.00

ATV Quad Bike Bali with Waterfall Gorilla Cave and Lunch

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from $ 36.00

Bali Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Bali is between April and October, during the dry season, when you can expect warm, sunny days and low humidity. The offseason (from November to March) can be a great time to travel if you want to escape the crowds; downpours are often heavy but short-lived. Thanks to Bali's location close to the equator, in the southern hemisphere, daytime temperatures hover around the low 80s year-round, with only humidity and precipitation patterns changing. The lack of rain during the summer season makes Bali more comfortable for beachgoers.

Weather in Bali

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Check out remote neighbors The Gili Islands are about a 90-minute speedboat ride from Bali's east coast and offer pristine sands and zero traffic. There are no motorized vehicles, so you can cycle around on two wheels or hop on a horse and cart to explore.

Know culinary favorites In southern Bali, seafood is king. In central Bali, the local specialty is babi guling , or suckling pig slow-roasted on an open fire. You'll also find nasi goreng (fried rice with chicken and egg), mie goreng (stir-fried noodles) and chicken sate (satay) with peanut sauce on almost every local menu.

Nyepi is Bali's most important Hindu holiday Nyepi, or the "Day of Silence", marks the Balinese New Year, which falls in mid-March. On the day itself, everyone stays inside and is expected to remain silent. Businesses, schools, roads and the airport close for 24 hours. It's a magical, spiritual experience, with exuberant parades and festivities throughout the island in the days leading up to it.

How to Save Money in Bali

Book a local guest house Bali's luxury resorts and big-name brands can be pricey, but local guest houses and homestays often offer excellent value for money, so it's worth widening your search.

Be prepared to barter If you're shopping at one of Bali's many markets, you can normally barter to get a good price.

Eat at warungs Bali has plenty in the way of fancy beach clubs and high-end restaurants (which still offer excellent value compared to the U.S.), but if you want to save a little more, look for warung s. These are small, family-owned cafes/restaurants that normally offer lower prices.

Culture & Customs

As an island in Indonesia, the official (and dominant) language in Bali is Indonesian. However, you'll still hear Balinese (a Malayo-Polynesian language) being spoken by some locals. Because international tourism plays a key role in Bali's economy, English is widely spoken in larger towns and cities. That means you shouldn't have a problem getting around, buying souvenirs or ordering food.

The currency in Bali is the Indonesian rupiah. Since the rupiah to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates,  be sure to check the current exchange rate before you go. For reference, $1 is equal to approximately 15,500 rupiahs.

In terms of religion, Bali is unique among the Indonesian islands, which are mostly Islamic. Hinduism is the predominant religion in Bali. Most of the temples found here are sacred Hindu sites, so be respectful of the customs you'll witness, such as praying in pools of water. To get a sense for the island's unique religion, it's well worth visiting some of Bali's temples.

What to Eat

Bali's cuisine scene is heavily Indonesian, with Chinese and Indian influences. Most dishes include rice, vegetables and meat or fish – and plenty of spice. Many meals feature base gede – a spice paste that usually consists of garlic, red chilies, nutmeg, turmeric, coriander, ginger, shrimp paste, coconut oil and bay leaves. There are several standout dishes that travelers should sample. Nasi goreng (fried rice with egg and chicken), mie goreng (fried noodles) and gado-gado (vegetables and tofu in peanut sauce) feature on almost every Indonesian menu. Order babi guling (turning pig) and you'll get a plate of tender roasted meat that's also crispy and caramelized. Bebek betutu is a spice-rubbed, slow-roasted duck often cooked in banana leaves. The satay (or sate ) in Bali includes strips of chicken, pork, fish or tofu placed on skewers and grilled over a hot flame, usually served with peanut sauce.

When it comes to restaurants, local warungs – family-run, affordable eateries – are the best places to find classic Indonesian dishes, while restaurants along the coast dish out casual meals with beautiful beach views. For upscale, international cuisine, there are plenty of great restaurants in and around the main resort areas – especially Ubud, Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu and Uluwatu. Expect everything from Japanese and Indian to Mexican and Italian, with prices at a fraction of what you'd pay back home.

Getting Around Bali

The best way to get around Bali is by hired car or scooter. Hiring a car and driver grants you the freedom of roaming around the island without the hassle of having to drive yourself. Traveling by scooter is also very popular – but take care on the busy roads, and be prepared to weave through chaotic traffic (especially around the southerly resort towns of Kuta , Canggu and Seminyak ). Alternatively, car and scooter taxis are easy to come by and relatively cheap, especially in the south, and can be booked on the Grab or Gojek apps. If you're visiting neighboring islands such as Nusa Penida , Nusa Lembongan and the Gilis, there are speedboats and ferries from Bali ports including Sanur and Padangbai.

Most travelers arrive through I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), which is located between Kuta and Jimbaran on the island's southern tip. To reach your hotel, check in advance to see if there's a complimentary resort shuttle available. Some hotels also provide private transportation for a fee. If you plan to take a taxi, you'll prepay your fare at the airport's taxi counter. Fares range widely depending on your destination, but expect to pay around 120,000 to 150,000 rupiahs ($8 to $10) if you're going to Kuta or Seminyak and around 300,000 rupiahs (about $20) if you're going to Ubud.

Entry & Exit Requirements

Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least six months from when you enter the country and have at least two blank passport pages. You need a visa to enter Indonesia; you can get a 30-day visitor visa on arrival at the airport in Bali for 500,000 rupiahs (around $32). The temporary visa applies to tourist and short business trips only. If you are coming to Indonesia for more than 30 days, you either need to apply for a special visa prior to arrival, or extend the visa once in the country (local agencies in the main resort towns can arrange this). For more information, check out the U.S. Department of State's  website .

You'll enjoy peace and quiet, plus the gorgeous beach scene, at Nusa Dua .

Explore More of Bali

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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Bali Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 23, 2023

Bali is a budget backpacker paradise. It’s one of the most popular destinations in Indonesia and a hub for travelers, yoga lovers, honeymooners, and digital nomads alike.

Not only does it cater to the budget-savvy vagabond, but the island offers plenty of options for the more affluent traveler as well.

While visiting Bali has become clichéd (many people visit to have an “Eat, Pray, Love” experience), I still find the island to be beautiful, budget-friendly, and full of things to do. The countryside is beautiful, the beaches ( outside of Kuta ) are picture perfect, there is great hiking, friendly locals, world-class dining, and it’s inexpensive.

I spent a month exploring the island and would happily go back and explore it again.

The trick to traveling Bali is to get away from Ubud and Kuta. Once you do so, you find a much calmer, cheaper, and less-busy island worth exploring where the touts don’t bother you and the empty beaches are yours to enjoy.

This travel guide to Bali can help you make the most of your visit, save money, get off the beaten path, and have the trip of a lifetime!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Bali

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Bali

1. Go scuba diving

While snorkeling is always an option here, Bali is best known for its phenomenal dive spots. The reefs here are beautiful and there is an amazing variety of fish to see. The wreck of a US cargo ship, Liberty, is a highly recommended spot, as is Manta Point off Nusa Penida. Mola mola (ocean sunfish) season runs from July to October and is also very popular with divers. Prices vary depending on the dive site location and where you’re staying, but expect to pay at least 1,500,000 IDR for a two-tank dive.

2. Visit a Hindu temple

The island of Bali is covered in temples. There are at least three in every city and they are considered to be the most iconic attractions. The most prominent temples are the nine directional temples (built for pilgrimages and which allow tourist entry except to the inner sanctum) and the Besakih Temple (Mother Temple) to the east of the island. Mother Temple is a huge temple complex located on the sacred Mount Agung, an active volcano. The climb takes several hours, and most people arrange this as a tour since you need a vehicle to reach the trailhead. Prices start around 320,000 IDR per person. Since it is a holy mountain, climbing can be off-limits during certain times of the year.

3. Take a trip to Nusa Lembongan

Located right off the coast of Bali, this little island is a good alternative to the craziness that is Bali. In fact, it’s where lots of residents go to escape! Nusa Penida is the most developed of the three Nusa islands and you can actually cross to Nusa Ceningan via a bright yellow footbridge. The beaches aren’t great here but the surfing is really good, with some of the best breaks in Bali. The diving is also excellent here and it’s cheaper than on the mainland.

4. Learn about Balinese Culture in Ubud

Ubud is the second most popular tourist area and it can get crazy busy, but it’s still the best place to learn about Balinese culture. There are a number of beautiful temples, numerous historical sites, dance shows, and some of the best food on the island. Head to Tegalalang Village to see the famous rice terraces as well as interact with the local farmers and artists who live there.

5. Hike Mount Batur

Many travelers hike up this 1,700-meter (5,577-foot) volcano for the sweeping vistas and stunning sunrise it offers. The climb only takes a couple of hours, and there are plenty of guides available to lead the way (you have to use a guide to be allowed to climb). Expect to pay around 400,000 IDR per person for a guide.

Other Things to See and Do in Bali

1. try some adventure sports.

There are tons of adventurous activities to do in Bali. You can go paragliding, white water rafting, hiking, mountain biking, ATVing, horseback riding, jungle trekking, and even treetop zip-lining. Prices vary, though they are all quite affordable. Paragliding, for example, costs around 650,000 IDR per person for a tandem glide while zip-lining costs around 1,300,000 IDR.

2. Visit the hot springs

There are several hot springs on the island where you can relax and pamper yourself. In the northeastern mountains, there are some on the shores of Lake Batur. Another good spot is Air Banjar, which is located on the northern coast of the island near Lovina. It is incredibly energizing to sit in these natural pools while you take in the lush, beautiful landscape all around you. Admission varies but expect to pay around 200,000 IDR.

3. Visit the spa

Bali is the perfect place to re-energize by pampering yourself and releasing bottled-up stress and tension. Balinese massage is one of the most relaxing in the world, and there are a number of Balinese spa treatments which involve the use of various herbs and spices. Prices vary depending on what you purchase but expect to pay at least 200,000 IDR for a massage (it should cost less on the beach).

4. Party in Kuta

Kuta is kind of like the Tijuana of Bali. The streets are narrow here and there are hundreds of stalls selling faux-brand ripoffs and novelty souvenirs. There are plenty of hostels and lots of bars that cater to the younger backpacker crowd. If you’re looking to party, this is the best spot on the island to do so. Personally, I hate Kuta and think there are a lot of better places on the island. But if you want to party on a budget, this is the place.

5. Watch the monkeys

Located in Ubud, the Ubud Monkey Forest is a nature reserve and sacred area with temples. It’s very touristy, and a lot of people break the rules and feed the monkeys, which teaches them bad habits so don’t do that! Still, it’s exciting to watch all of the long-tailed macaques running around and playing with each other. Admission is 80,000 IDR.

6. Watch a Buffalo Race

Chances are, after a few days in Bali, you will have seen the water buffalo working in the various fields. In Negara, locals riding chariots race buffaloes every second Sunday from July to October. Negara is a bit out of the way and the races take place at 7am, so you probably should arrange accommodation for the night before. Nevertheless, it’s a peculiar spectacle and something you won’t likely see anywhere else!

7. Stretch it out

There are tons of world-class yoga retreat centers all around Bali, offering both single classes and multi-day retreats as well as training courses. If you need to relax, destress, and stay healthy this is a great place to do it! Expect to pay around 4,750,000 IDR for a 3-day retreat and upwards of 40,000,000 IDR for a 200-hour teacher training course. Drop-in classes are usually around 150,000 IDR.

8. Take a surfing lesson

You don’t even have to leave the airport to know that Bali is a surfing destination; you’ll see tons of surfboards being picked up at baggage claim. The best thing about surfing in Bali is that there’s something on offer for all abilities and on any stretch of the coast. Bring your own board or hire one for 150,000 IDR per day. If you’re new to surfing, a one-hour lesson costs around 350,000 IDR (including a board rental).

9. Learn to cook

The food scene in Bali has developed a lot in recent years and you can easily find some really high-quality restaurants all over the island. Sometimes getting back to the basics is best, though, and nothing really beats learning how to make authentic local dishes liked nasi goreng (fried rice), satay (skewered grilled meat with a peanut sauce), or sambal (a chili sauce or paste) so you can recreate the dishes when you’re back at home. Class lengths vary between a short 2-hour class all the way up to a 9-hour full-day class including a market visit. Classes cost around 350,000 IDR.

10. Join a beach clean-up

The amount of trash that ends up on Bali’s beaches is infuriating. Use your time to give back to the local community by joining a beach clean-up. There are clean-ups all over the island so it’s easy to find one close to where you’re staying. If you’re visiting in February, One Island One Voice organizes Bali’s biggest annual clean-up, with some 70,000 people spread out over 560 locations.

  For more information on other destinations in Indonesia, check out these guides:

• Gili Islands Travel Guide

Bali Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels usually cost around 75,000-200,000 IDR per night but they can be found as low as 55,000 IDR in the shoulder-season. Most hostels don’t offer private rooms, though free WiFi and free breakfast are generally included.

If you are looking for a cheap guesthouse or a budget hotel, expect to pay around 375,000-800,000 IDR per night for a double room. This generally includes free WiFi and breakfast. For a hotel with a pool, expect to spend at least 600,000 IDR per night.

Airbnb is available here too, with prices starting at around 350,000 IDR per night for an entire home or apartment. Private rooms cost around 180,000 IDR per night. Be sure to book your Airbnb in advance, otherwise, expect these prices to double (or triple).

If you’re looking for luxury, Bali also has some of the most expensive hotels in the world, many costing over 13,000,000 IDR per night.

Food – Lots of dishes here have a rice (nasi) or noodle (mie) base and, in some cases, that’s the whole dish, such as with nasi ayam (chicken rice). Be sure to try the Balinese take on satay (where the meat is minced and wrapped on skewers) and babi guling , a delicious suckling pig that is roasted for hours. Another popular choice is oxtail soup. Be mindful that the food here can be a little spicy.

Local cuisine is extremely cheap, usually under 10,000 IDR for street food. A basic restaurant meal costs closer to 25,000 IDR. Western food is a lot more expensive but is still affordable at around 125,000 IDR for a meal and a drink.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 55,000 IDR for a combo meal deal while a beer at the bar is around 45,000 IDR. Expect to pay 17,000 IDR for a bottle of water.

If you plan on cooking your own meals, a week’s worth of groceries costs between 500,000-700,000 IDR. Be sure to stick to local food items, as imported foods like wine, cheese, chicken, and beef are super expensive. Buying them often ruins your budget.

Bali Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 425,000 IDR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat some street food, cook some meals, rent a bicycle to get around, and do a few activities like hiking or seeing a Balinese dance. It’s really easy to do Bali on a budget if you stay in cheap guesthouses, eat local, and stick to the less expensive activities.

On a mid-range budget of 1,100,000 IDR per day, you can eat out at more restaurants, stay in a budget hotel or a private hostel room, rent a scooter to get around, drink more, enjoy some massages, and take more tours.

On a “luxury” budget of 2,350,000 IDR or more per day, you can stay at a nicer hotel or villa, take taxis or private minivans around the island, eat Western food, drink more, and do any adventure activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury, however. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in IDR.

Bali Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Bali can be as cheap or as expensive as you want it to be. This is the land of cheap backpackers, honeymooners, top-of-the-line expensive resorts, and yoga retreats. It caters to every travel style. If you’re looking to save money while visiting, here are some tips and tricks that help you lower your costs:

• Eat local food – You can pick up tasty local fare for around 10,000-15,000 IDR. Stay far away from Western restaurants if you want to save money!
• Bargain – Nothing is ever at face value in Indonesia. Bargain hard and bargain often. Don’t ever pay the first price you were quoted (but don’t be a jerk either).
• Head north – The southern area of Bali (Kuta, Ubud, Seminyak) is the most popular (and most expensive) part of the island. If you head to the beaches in the north or northeast part of Bali, prices are much cheaper and you can find better deals on accommodation.
• Save money on rideshares – Uber and Grab are cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to wait for a bus or pay for a taxi. Just be aware that Ubers can be much harder to find in quieter areas.
• Drink cheap – Save money on alcohol by hitting the happy hours or just buying your drinks at a local store instead of the bar. This is the cheapest way to drink.
• Bring a filtered water bottle – Bali has a waste problem, and much of it gets burned. You’ll see (and smell) it during your visit. Bring a reusable water bottle with a filter to save money — and the environment. I like Lifestraw .

Where to Stay in Bali

Bali has tons of fun, affordable, and social hostels and guesthouses. Here are my favorites places to stay on the island:

• Tribal Bali (Canggu)
• PADI Backpackers House (Ubud)
• Kememai Hostel (Ubud)
• Warung Coco Hostel (Kuta)
• M Boutique Hostel (Seminyak)
• Capsule Hotel Bali – New Seminyak (Seminyak)

For more recommendations, check out this list of the best hostels in Bali.

How to Get Around Bali

Bemos & buses – Bemos are a minibus or a van that carries around 12 people in very tight quarters. They’re not widely used by visitors because they’re usually real time consuming. However, they’re cheap and most rides are around 5,000 IDR.

Tourist buses are a great way to get around, and they’re very affordable. They usually have air-conditioning, and some have Wi-Fi. There are signs in most areas offering these services. Kura-Kura Bus and Perama are the two biggest tourist bus operators. Kuta to Lovina costs 250,000 IDR, while Denpasar to Kuta is just 30,000 IDR. Kuta to Ubud is 100,000 IDR.

Taxis – Taxis are essential for getting around Bali, and they’re cheap. The starting rate is around 7,000 IDR and then 5,000-15,000 IDR per kilometer. You can also find drivers all over the island willing to take you wherever you want to go. A car from Ubud to Padangbai (where you get the boat to Lombok and Gili) costs around 300,000 IDR while an airport transfer to Seminyak or Canggu should cost around the same.

Bluebird Taxis are available in most places, and they’re the most dependable company for metered taxis and English-speaking drivers. There’s a smartphone app that makes ordering a taxi simple and convenient.

Grab (an Uber offspring) is a household name in Southeast Asia. It, too, is convenient, but it sometimes costs even more than a taxi. Go-Jek is a similar option and it also offers motorbike ride shares.

Bicycle – Bicycles are available for rent all around the island, usually costing 50,000 IDR per day for a basic bicycle.

Motorcycles and scooters – Motorbikes are quintessential to the Bali experience, and it’s not uncommon to see whole families riding one together! Motorbikes are so common here because they make it easier to weave in and out of congested traffic.

Scooter rentals are available around the island for as little as 90,000 IDR per day while motorbikes cost about 300,000 IDR a day. You should be an experienced driver for this option though as accidents are very common.

Ferry – Getting to and from Bali is easy via ferry. Ferries start around 15,000 IDR for a ticket from East Java to West Bali, and the rates go up from there for other routes. Bali (Padang Bai) to Lombok is about 500,000 IDR (one way) on the fast ferry or 60,000 IDR on the slow boat (which takes around 8 hours), while Bali to the Gili Islands is 300,000-350,000 IDR (one way) on a speedboat.

When to Go to Bali

Bali has a warm, tropical climate year-round with just two seasons: wet and dry. The dry season lasts from April to September while the rainy season occurs from October to the end of March. The average daily temperature year-round is 28°C (80°F). The high season is from July and August as well as through the Easter holidays and Christmas holidays (about December 11th to January 1st). Bali is busiest during this time, and prices are the highest.

In Bali’s mountainous areas, temperatures are much cooler and there is more rainfall than along the coast. If you plan on spending time in the mountains you need to pack appropriate clothing.

Overall, the best time to visit is between May and September when it’s dry and sunny. It’s still pleasant to visit during the rainy season as rainfall usually comes as fast and intense downpours that only last a few hours. In Bali, the extremes between seasons aren’t drastic.

The dry season is the best time to climb the volcanoes, participate in water sports, and the best time to dive is from April to September.

How to Stay Safe in Bali

Bali is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo — as violent crime is rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Indonesia. Theft is also very common on public transit. It’s easy for thieves to grab your wallet or purse when you’re distracted by all the chaos around you. Stay alert and always keep your valuables out of reach.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here but the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). There’s a lot of partying here so you’ll want to keep an eye out at night. There are countless solo female travel blogs out there that can give you specific information on how to stay safe.

Credit card fraud is common in Indonesia so it’s always best to pay with cash when possible. To avoid getting your information stolen at an ATM, enter a reputable bank to withdraw money from there.

When out and about, make sure you don’t keep all your cash on you. Take what you need for the day and keep the rest secure in your accommodation just to be safe.

If you take a taxi, remember that not all prices in Bali are fixed. Make sure the driver turns on the meter when you get in, or agree on the price upfront to avoid any misunderstandings.

To avoid some of the common scams on the island, read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

When in doubt, always trust your instincts. If a taxi driver seems shady, get out. If your hotel or accommodation is seedier than you thought, go somewhere else. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of an emergency.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Bali Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Bali Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Indonesia and Bali travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

A Visitor’s Guide to the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Kuta Beach: The Worst Place in Bali

How to Visit Borobudur in Indonesia

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Matt Mickiewicz

Trip Provider took us far off the beaten tourist path in Bali, and arranged a unique and very special experience far away from the tourist crowds that we w...

Fringed by dramatic coast, glorious sandy beaches and world-class surf, Bali is the jewel of the Indonesian archipelago. Extending less than 153km at its widest point, this volcanic island is popular with everyone from backpackers and high-end travellers to divers and sun-worshippers. As Southeast Asia’s only predominately Hindu society, religious observance still permeates every aspect of life here. Beyond the stunning resorts, amazing restaurants and relaxing spas of Southern Bali and Ubud , Bali's original charm still flourishes amongst its terraced rice paddies, evocative temples and vibrant festivals.

The best travel tips for visiting Bali

Best things to do in bali, where to stay in bali, best restaurants and bars, how to get here, tips for getting a bali visa, how many days do you need in bali, tips for getting around, best time to visit bali, travel ideas for indonesia, created by local experts.

6 days  / from 830 USD

Bali's Beaches and Temples

Experience Bali's brilliant beaches and temples with this stunning trip. Marvel at ancient temples like Tanah Lot and Pura Besakih, soak in stunning sunsets, stroll bare-footed along the best beaches in Bali and haggle at local markets – experience all of this, and much more, with this unique trip!

10 days  / from 1600 USD

Rest and Relaxation in Bali and Lombok

This unique trip will take you to some of Bali and Lombok's most traditional places. Look forward to driving through tropical landscapes and spending time in villages nestled in scenic spots of traditional luxury with infinity pools and stunning vistas over the ocean.

10 days  / from 2100 USD

Royal Bali - Culture & Beaches

Enjoy a luxurious stay in Bali, with hand-picked 5 Star Hotels. This trip includes privately guided tours as well as leisure time, ideal for families with kids. Highlights include sea temple Tanah Lot, Jatiluwih rice terraces and Uluwatu temple with its famous Kecak dance.

Make a beeline for the coast between Seminyak and Canggu. Loaded with fine beach bars, ideal for a sundowner or two, this is the Bali with its hair let down. Peek into the uber-luxe Potato Head in Seminyak and it's unlikely you'll leave for several hours.

The jaw-dropping seascape from Pura Luhur Uluwatu should get some of your attention, though. As should the impossibly green rice terraces around Sidemen and Tirtagangga. Wow. To get away from it all, head along the narrow and winding Amed coastal road to Ujung. This glorious, high-level track offers some of the most dramatic scenery in Indonesia . Its hills sweep up for hundreds of metres from the coast. Plus, no other tourists.

Bali has plenty of things for children to do as well. Aside from the beach and other water-based activities in the southern resorts, Bali’s Waterbom Park is fun for all ages. In Ubud there’s Swing Heaven with jungle swings and beds enjoying stunning views of the Ayung river. Surfing, mountain-biking, whitewater rafting and horseriding will tire out teens, whilst the Bird and Reptile parks in Batubulan and the Bali Safari and Marine Park in Gianyar are ideal for budding David Attenboroughs.

Planning a trip to Bali? Perhaps our local experts in Bali can help you!

Bali rice terraces ©Shutterstock

It’s not possible to see everything that Bali has to offer in a single trip – and we don’t suggest you try. But from seeing the sunrise from the top of ancient volcanoes to snorkelling along the dramatic easternmost coastline, Bali's best things to do are varied and venturous. Save space for visiting Hindu temples, admiring Balinese art and at least one spa treatment.

Travel tip - make sure you don't miss our article about the best tours in Bali

Every trip to Bali is unique and that's why it's essential to stay protected. With our go-to travel insurance provider, Heymondo , you get great value and 24/7 support wherever you are.

#1 Summit Gunung Batur for sunrise

On a clear day, no scenery in Bali can match that of the Batur area. With its volcanic peaks and silver-turquoise crater lake, the scale and spectacle of this landscape remain unrivalled. The best way to see it is from the top of Bali’s most climbed mountain, the 1717m-high Gunung Batur (Mount Batur).

Wisps of sulphurous smoke still drift from smaller cones on the slopes of this ancient volcano, which last erupted in 2000. Given the scenery, it’s no surprise that this is one of Bali’s most popular tourist destinations. Most only visit on a day trip but stay overnight in either lakeside Toya Bungkah or Kedisan and hike to the summit to experience the magic of the scenery at sunrise. A guide is essential for sunrise treks. Use the Association of Mount Batur Trekking Guides, which has offices in Toya Bungkah and Pura Jati.

© Shutterstock

#2 Attend a religious festival at a temple

Religious ceremonies and festivals remain central to Balinese life and every one of Bali’s thousands of Hindu temples holds at least one annual festival to entertain the gods with processions and offerings. Spend more than a few days on the island and you are likely to spot locals heading to one. Visitors are welcome too but must follow certain etiquette: dress modestly; wear a sarong and a ceremonial sash; and treat shrines with due deference.

Events to look out for include: Nyepi (March or April), a major purification ritual that frightens away evil spirits with drums, gongs, cymbals, firecrackers and huge papier-mâché monsters ( ogoh-ogoh ); and Galungan, an annual ten-day festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil when the ancestral souls are thought to visit earth. The latter includes elaborate preparations such as penyor (bamboo poles hung with offerings) that arch over the road.

Looking for more tips? Make sure to read our Bali travel tips .

Balinese women in traditional costume carry offerings on their heads for a Hindu ceremony © Denis Moskvinov / Shutterstock

#3 Dive or snorkel along the Amed coast

The peaceful bays, clear waters and undulating topography of the Amed Coast stretch for some 15km stretch from Culik to Aas in the far east of Bali. A little off the beaten track, divers and snorkellers are being enticed by the region’s impressive offshore reefs, wreck dives, submerged canyons, manta rays and oceanic sunfish.

Facilities are mushrooming along the coast with accommodation now available in every village bay. Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is now a popular pastime here and progressive beach outlets rent them. You'll also find plenty of yoga classes this way, too. Divers should aim for Jemeluk, which has dive centres and a travellers’ vibe, and is a good choice if you don’t have your own transport. Banyuning, meanwhile, is better for snorkelling.

View of Agung volcano from the ocean, Amed coast, Karangasem Regency, Bali, Indonesia © Shutterstock

#4 Admire classical Kamasan art

Semarapura in southeast Bali became a centre of the arts towards the end of the seventeenth century, when Bali’s Majapahit rulers relocated here from their court at Gelgel. The small town remains a hotbed of artistic creativity

Inside the Taman Gili palace gardens, the historic Kerta Gosa (Hall of Justice) has nine levels of paintings. The pictures of gruesome punishments on its ceiling are one of only two examples of wayang -style paintings still in situ in Bali.

Nearby is the exceptional Nyoman Gunarsa Museum, which houses Bali’s best collection of historic Kamasan art. Highlights include several 10m-long ider ider (ceremonial banners depicting mythological tales). The art here is supplemented by elaborate antique doors, carved gamelan ornaments and examples of wayang kulit puppets that echo the origins of the classical style. There are several paintings by the museum founder, Nyoman Gunarsa, one of Bali’s foremost modern artists.

Taman Gili, Klungkung © Shutterstock

#5 Surf some waves at Uluwatu

Bali’s volcanic reef-fringed coastline has made the island one of the world’s great surfing centres, with a reputation for producing consistent tubes and waves. There are also plenty of gentler beach breaks, which are ideal for beginners. If you want to surf, go from April to October when the southeast trade winds blow offshore, fanning the waves off Bali’s southwest coast.

The best-known and most challenging of the southwestern breaks are around Uluwatu on the Bukit Peninsula – at Balangan, Dreamland, Bingin, Padang Padang and Suluban. Small, surfer-oriented resorts have grown up around each one. Novice and less confident surfers should start with the breaks around Kuta, Canggu and Medewi.

#6 Pamper yourself with a Balinese boreh at a spa

And relax! Jamu (herbal medicines) and massages using oils and pastes made from locally-grown plants have long played an important role in traditional Indonesian health care. Dozens of spas across Bali now offer traditional beauty treatments, particularly around Seminyak, Petitenget and Ubud.

Indonesia's best-known traditional treatment is the Javanese exfoliation rub, mandi lulur , in which you’re painted and then massaged with a turmeric-based paste. Such is its apparent power to beautify, Javanese brides are said to have a treatment each day for the forty days before their wedding ceremonies.

Another popular body wrap is the Balinese boreh , a warming blend of cloves, pepper and cardamom, that is said to improve circulation and invigorate muscles. Most scrub treatments include a gentle Balinese-style massage and a moisturizing “milk bath”.

#7 Snap a shot of Pura Tanah Lot, Bali’s most photographed temple

Marooned on a craggy, wave-lashed rock just off the southwest coast, Pura Tanah Lot is one of the island’s holiest temples for the Balinese and one of its busiest tourist sites too.

Fringed by white surf and black sand, its multitiered shrines are an unofficial symbol of Bali, appearing on countless souvenirs. Said to have been founded by the Hindu priest Nirartha, who sailed to Bali from Java during the sixteenth century, Pura Tanah Lot now draws Instagrammers and influencers in equal measure.

Only devotees are allowed to climb the stairway carved from the rock face and enter the compounds – everyone else is confined to the grey beach beneath the rock (which gets submerged at high tide). For the best photos, climb up to the mainland clifftop. Follow the path northwest for a panoramic view of the Bukit plateau on Bali’s southernmost tip.

Tanah Lot Temple, Bali © Shutterstock

#8 Bike through the terraced rice paddies of Ubud

Inland Ubud and its surrounding area form Bali’s cultural heartland, home to a huge number of temples, museums and art galleries. The town hosts Balinese dance shows nightly and has a wealth of craft studios that provide absorbing shopping, too.

As well as traditional ceremonies and daily rituals, many come to Ubud for its surrounding terraced rice paddies. These emerald terraces and coconut groves, framed by distant volcanoes, are best seen on two feet or two wheels.

Hiking and biking in the countryside surrounding Ubud gives you a real sense of how Bali once was before tourism went big time here. At the confluence of the Wos Barat and the Wos Timor rivers, the two-hour Campuhan Ridge Walk is doable by bike and offers arresting views and an endless carpet of alangalang grass swaying in the breeze.

Ubud rice fields © Shutterstock

#9 Explore West Bali National Park

West Bali National Park is a stunning natural gem located on the island of Bali, Indonesia. The park boasts a diverse range of ecosystems, including dense forests, savannahs, and pristine beaches.

Visitors can experience Bali's unique flora and fauna, including the endangered Bali Starling bird and the elusive Javanese leopard. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, bird watching, snorkeling, and diving.

Visitors can also explore the park's cultural heritage, with ancient temples and traditional villages nearby. With its natural beauty and abundant wildlife, West Bali National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the best of Bali's wilderness.

Javanese leopard in Bali © Shutterstock

#10 Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Ubud Monkey Forest is a popular destination in Bali that offers a unique and exciting experience for visitors. The forest is home to over 700 long-tailed macaques that are known for their playful behaviour and curious nature. Visitors can watch these monkeys swinging from tree to tree, interacting with each other and even approaching visitors for food.

Apart from the monkey sightings, the forest is also a serene oasis of tropical plants, ancient temples, and calming streams, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) in Sacred Monkey Forest, Ubud, Indonesia © Shutterstock

#11 Take a yoga class

Embark on a transformative journey for mind, body, and soul amidst the lush tropical paradise of Bali, where ancient traditions and serene landscapes converge to create the perfect backdrop for a yoga class like no other. Renowned as a global hub for yoga and wellness, Bali offers a myriad of options for practitioners of all levels, from seasoned yogis to beginners seeking to find inner harmony.

Picture yourself gracefully flowing through sun salutations as gentle ocean breezes brush against your skin, or meditating amidst emerald rice terraces, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. Whether you seek a vibrant and energetic practice or a more introspective and restorative experience, Bali's vibrant yoga community welcomes you with open arms.

Make sure to read our article about the best yoga retreats in Bali and also check our Bali Yoga Retreat trip

Yoga practicing © Shutterstock

#12 Explore Bali's best temples

Visiting the enchanting island of Bali offers an extraordinary opportunity to immerse oneself in its rich spiritual heritage, with its collection of breathtaking temples that exude tranquility and mystique. A pilgrimage to Bali's best temples is a transformative journey that unveils the island's deep-rooted cultural traditions.

Start your odyssey by exploring the iconic Pura Besakih, Bali's Mother Temple, nestled on the slopes of Mount Agung. Its grandeur and the spiritual energy it emanates are awe-inspiring. Next, venture to the exquisite Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, gracefully floating on Lake Bratan, a sight that evokes a sense of serenity and reverence.

Continue your exploration with a visit to the majestic sea temple of Tanah Lot, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop, where you can witness awe-inspiring sunsets. Conclude your temple odyssey with Pura Luhur Uluwatu, located atop soaring cliffs, providing breathtaking vistas of the Indian Ocean.

Interested in more temples? Make sure to read all about the best temples in Bali .

Pura Luhur Uluwatu, Bali © Shutterstock

#13 Climb Mount Agung

As the highest peak on the island, Mount Agung stands as a formidable challenge, both physically and spiritually. The ascent begins under a starlit sky, guided by experienced climbers who navigate the winding trails through lush forests and volcanic terrain.

As dawn breaks, a surreal panorama unfolds, revealing the breathtaking beauty of Bali from a vantage point like no other. The arduous trek reaches its pinnacle as you stand triumphantly on the summit, immersed in a surreal landscape of swirling clouds and the awe-inspiring sight of the sprawling island below. The sense of accomplishment and connection to nature's raw power is overwhelming, as the sacred mountain holds deep spiritual significance for the Balinese people.

Descending the volcano, you carry with you memories etched in your heart and a newfound appreciation for the indomitable spirit of Bali's natural wonders. Climbing Mount Agung is an experience you'll never forget.

Main Bali temple Pura Besakih at the foot of the volcano Agung © Yolya Ilyasova/Shutterstock

#14 Discover Bali's best beaches

We must be honest here. You won't find the countries best beaches on Bali. Yes, the island has amazing beaches, but the best beaches are found at Nusa Penida , Maluku , Sumbawa , Sulawesi and Raja Ampat . But it doesn't mean you can't spend a day on a tropical beach on Bali.

Bali's pristine beaches are renowned worldwide for their idyllic atmosphere, making them a must stop for beach enthusiasts. One of the island's most famous coastal gems is Seminyak Beach, a haven for sun-seekers, offering luxurious beach clubs, trendy resorts, and breathtaking sunsets. For those in search of a tranquil escape, Nusa Dua Beach is a haven of serenity, boasting pristine stretches of white sand and crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Further north, the iconic Lovina Beach and Pemuteran Beach awaits, renowned for its black volcanic sand and the chance to witness playful dolphins dancing in the morning sun. And make sure you don't miss Amed's beach.

Aerial view of Pemuteran green coastline in Bali © Shutterstock

#15 Visit the Gili's from Bali

Visiting the stunning Gili Islands from Bali is a popular and convenient option for travellers seeking a tranquil island escape. Located just off the northwest coast of Lombok, these three picturesque islands—Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno—offer pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a laid-back atmosphere that is hard to resist.

Getting to the Gili Islands from Bali is relatively straightforward. From Bali, you can take a fast boat or a speedboat from various departure points such as Padang Bai or Serangan. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the sea conditions and the chosen departure point.

Once you arrive at one of the Gili Islands, you can embrace the unhurried island life and explore the unique character of each island. Gili Trawangan is known for its vibrant nightlife, bustling markets, and a wide range of accommodation options. Gili Air offers a balance between tranquility and amenities, with charming beachside cafes and excellent snorkeling spots. Gili Meno, the smallest of the three islands, is an untouched paradise with serene beaches and a perfect setting for romantic getaways.

Gili Meno @Shutterstock

The overall standard of accommodation on Bali is very high. Even basic lodgings are generally enticing. Where to stay is usually determined by your budget but the island has plenty of cheap options from losmen (a term that literally means homestay but commonly describes any inexpensive accommodation) to hostels in key backpacker hangouts like Kuta.

Nearly all other accommodation falls into the hotel category, most of which offer air conditioning and a swimming pool. Bali does boutique hotels very well: small, intimate places, often with gorgeous rural views and tasteful Balinese furnishings. Suites on the island's super-luxury hotels tend to have private plunge pools and living areas.

Make sure to read our article about the best areas to stay in Bali .

Where to stay in the South

You’re spoilt for choice for accommodation in South Bali. Most in Kuta is of the cheap and cheerful variety: hostels, losmen , and somewhat dated mid-range places. The accommodation in Legian, Seminyak and Kerobokan is more expensive and chicer. Canggu has more villas for rent than hotels or guesthouses, but there are some highly characterful places.

Check the best accommodation in the south of Bali .

Where to stay in Ubud and central

Ubud has an incredible choice of accommodation. Most family homestays are in traditional compounds and have real Balinese charm. Mid-range hotels often have pools and a dash of artistic style, while upscale options are wonderfully luxurious, many with rice paddy or river views. For a stunning river valley location, the Ayung River hotels, 6km or so west of Ubud, are perfect.

Check the best accommodation aroung Ubud .

Where to stay in the East

The main tourist hubs in East Bali are along the coasts. Candidasa is a low-key resort with good facilities and handy transport connections. Nearby, funky little Padang Bai is a port for boats to the Gili Islands and Lombok, and also makes a decent base in its own right. The biggest-hitting dive centres, though, are on the east coast, at Amed, which has lots of accommodation and plenty of reefs close to shore.

Check the best accommodation in the east of Bali .

Where to stay in the North

If you want to climb Gunung Batur, you can base yourself in Toya Bungkah, or Buahan and Songan, south of Kedisan. Hotels in this highland region do not have as high standards as those in more mainstream tourist areas. Many owners were subsistence farmers a generation ago. The cooler, cloud-capped hills of Danau Brata attracts some visitors (it goes down to 10˚C at night, so don't expect fans or air-conditioning), but most people visiting North Bali stay in Munduk as the accommodation is generally high.

Check the best accommodation in the north of Bali .

Pura Ulun Danu temple panorama at sunrise on a lake Bratan @Shutterstock

Best places to stay

Bambu Indah , Ubud. Probably Bali’s most unique place to stay, and the antithesis of the corporate five-star hotel. This is perhaps the most environmentally conscious hotel in Indonesia, built entirely from natural materials, while the 30m pool is river-fed and chlorine-free, and there are organic vegetable patches rather than manicured gardens. Guests get to revel in the epic views over the Ayung valley and stay in traditional Javanese teak houses, or startling mod-meets-trad bamboo creations. There’s fine food, attentive service and a wonderful chillout zone by the riverbank below.

Menjangan Dynasty , West Bali. Introducing glamping (glamourous-camping) to Bali – and we're glad they did – fabulous one- and two-bedroom luxury tents are situated on 16ha on a protected bay that is ideal for swimming and sunsets. Its Pasir Putih Beach Club – diving and watersports, spa, beachside pool and restaurant – are also open to non-guests.

Griya Valud , East Bali . Away from the main "hotel street" and across from eye-popping rice fields, two cottages and four attached rooms are a haven away from home. Excellent personal service provided by Made, the caretaker, and the best food anywhere in Bali.

Balinese cuisine is spicy, sweet and incredibly varied with rich curries, fragrant soups, delicious noodle dishes, steamed vegetables and Chinese-style stir-fries all competing for your tummy’s attention. The more local you go, the more authentic the meal.

In the main tourist regions, most restaurants tend to serve more generic Indonesian food and a multitude of Western and Asian dishes. For really genuine Balinese food, head to night markets and warung (simple local cafés).

Mozaic, Ubud This multi-award-winning restaurant showcases the talents of French-American chef Chris Salans. The French- and Asian-inspired dishes change regularly but include favourites such as Kintamani — suckling pork with Javanese pomelo purée or splash out on a 6-course grand menu. Reservations essential.

Warung Makan Pak, Ubud Some of the most economical food around Ubud is served at this low-key establishment: try the tasty house speciality, nasi campur ayam.

One Eyed Jack, Canggu Established by an ex-Nobu chef, One Eyed Jack features stupendous Japanese fusion cooking. Choose from the small plates menu, with highlights including crispy soft-shell crab sliders, black cod tacos, kelp salad and yakitori bites. There’s a good choice of sake too.

Sardine, Kerobokan Gorgeous imaginative cuisine in a bamboo bale-style structure beside a ricefield. Fish and seafood dominate the menu, with the dishes changing daily depending on the catch – miso-grilled mahi-mahi, Jimbaran-style fish and organic salads are typical.

Café Wayan, Ubud An Ubud visit is not complete without at least one stop at the iconic Café Wayan which has served scrumptious food for over 30 years. The menus contain everything you're hungry for, from traditional cuisine to sandwiches and cocktails. Sunday evenings there's a mouth-watering Balinese buffet.

Sage, Nyuhkuning Located on a corner plot, this vegan-vegetarian place has an outstanding selection of healthy dishes including “Go Jolly Green salad” (with kale, spinach and tempeh), great jackfruit tacos and wonderful juices. The attractive premises are light and airy and staff are sweet.

Nasi goreng is one of Bali's best dishes to try © vlena / Shutterstock

There’s no shortage of international and domestic flights to Bali’s only airport, Ngurah Rai International Airport – officially referred to as Denpasar (DPS) – 3km south of Kuta.

Flying to Bali

There are no nonstop flights from the UK or Ireland to Bali. Singapore Airlines and Emirates offer some of the fastest London–Denpasar flights; all require a brief transfer but can get you to Bali in as little as 17 hours.

There’s a big choice of flights to Bali from North America, although none are direct. Flights from the west coast go via Taipei, Seoul, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur, with connections to Bali in around 24 hours. From the east coast, airlines go via Tokyo (14 hours) or Bangkok (20 hours).

Scores of flights head to Bali from Australia with Quantas, Virgin Australia and Malindo Air, and low-cost carriers such as Jetstar and Garuda. Air New Zealand has (seasonal, May to October) direct flights to Bali from Auckland (9 hours).

From South Africa to Bali you’ll need to change in Singapore with Singapore Airlines, or Dubai with Emirates. Usually takes 18-22 hours

Getting to Bali by boat

Huge public inter-island ferries connect Bali with nearby islands, including Lombok and Java. They run frequently and regularly, day and night. However, they aren't particularly concerned with safety standards.

Many private small, expensive fast boats connect the Balinese mainland with the Gili Islands, Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida and Bangsal in Lombok. There are also smaller, slower boat services to Nusa Lembongan from Bali and from mainland Lombok to all three Gili Islands. A regular ferry runs from Padang Bai on Bali to Nusa Penida.

Find out more about how to get to Indonesia .

When visiting Bali, as well as Indonesia in general, it is essential for travellers to ensure they have the appropriate documentation, such as a valid passport. The Visa on Arrival is often the preferred choice for many visitors as it is available to over 90 nationalities.

Upon arrival in Bali, this visa can be obtained at immigration counters for a fee of 35 USD. Typically, it grants a 30-day stay, but it can be extended up to 60 days if necessary.

Make sure to read our article on how to obtain a Bali visa .

For a comprehensive trip around Bali, you will need around three weeks to do the island justice. From volcanic foothills and cultural hubs to idyllic tropical beaches and bustling cities, there's plenty to keep you occupied.

Set aside some time for sunbathing and surfing too but try and be flexible with any plans you make. There are plenty of places that will tempt you to extend your stay – we're looking at you, Nusa Lembongan.

The highlights of any itinerary will include the magnificent Pura Uluwatu temple on Bukit Peninsula, a chance to choose your own party in Kuta, Legian or Seminyak, plus the surf beaches of Canggu.

Photographers can't miss Pura Tanah Lot, a temple perched on a spectacular rocky crag, whilst Bali’s artistic hub, laidback Ubud, is known to steal hearts. Give yourself at least three days here.

No Bali trip would be complete without some hiking. We'd aim for a sunrise trek up volcanic Gunung Batur – followed by a dip in the hot springs at Danau Batur lake. Alternatively (or additionally), head to the dramatic, 3031m-high Gunung Agung volcano, home to many important religious sites, most notably Besakih, the Mother Temple.

Looking for inspiration for your trip? Talk to our Indonesian travel experts .

Motorbikes can handy to get around Bali if you're confident on two wheels © keulefm / 37 images

Bali is small enough to traverse in a few hours by road. However, a lack of street names and traffic congestion – particularly in Southern Bali and Ubud – can make things confusing for self-drivers.

Buses and bemos

With no railways, public transport on Bali is mainly buses and bemos (minibuses on set, long-distance routes). Although inexpensive, neither offers much comfort. Very few travellers bother with it. Bemos don’t have fixed timetables and generally leave every hour or so (or when full). You can pick up both buses and bemos from bus terminals in bigger towns or flag them down on the road.

Tourist shuttle buses

Bali has tourist shuttle buses that operate between major destinations. These are more expensive than buses and bemos but more convenient.

The taxi trade in Bali is notorious, and its workings are very complicated. Essentially there are three kinds of taxi: local drivers who almost never use a meter; taxis like Blue Bird which always use a meter; and ride-hailing-app taxis that you order on your smartphone (and pay for in cash). In some areas, like Kuta or Denpasar, all three kinds operate. In Ubud, the local taxi cartel blocks all metered outgoing services. In other regions, it’s a grey area.

Ride-hail apps

Cheap, app-based taxi services in Bali include Gojek (motorcycle), GoCar (car), GoRide (car) and Grab (car).

Cars and motorbikes

Cars and motorbikes are available to rent across Bali. You can also rent cars or motorbikes with a driver.

Located eight degrees south of the equator, Bali has consistent year-round temperatures, averaging 27°C in Bali’s coastal areas and the hills around Ubud and 22°C in the central volcanoes around Kintamani.

The best time to visit is April and May as it avoids both the monsoon season (October to March) and peak tourist seasons (mid-June to mid-September; plus the Christmas–New Year period). The other peak season to be aware of is Idul Fitry (Eid al-Fitri, usually May–June). Prices rocket and rooms can be fully booked for weeks in advance.

Bali's monsoon season brings rain, wind and intense humidity. It is both unrewarding and dangerous to go mountain climbing during this period.

You should also be prepared to get rained on in Ubud at any time of year. Not that the prospect of a daily rainstorm outside of the monsoon season should put you off: you’re far more likely to get an hour-long downpour than days of drizzle. The rain is more refreshing than off-putting.

Find out more about the best time to visit Bali .

Plan your trip to Bali with the Rough Guide to Bali and Lombok .

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

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Well, I just love Bali so much, and we fell in love with the culture, people, the food. Everything was just amazing. I feel like in Bali, you can find serenity anywhere, literally. It's our favorite place that we've been to on our entire trip.

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17 Things You Should Know Before Booking A Trip To Bali

B ali is a wonderful place to go since there's something there for everyone to enjoy, but there are some things a person should know before they plan a trip there. For example, those who are on a budget might want to know which hotels are the most highly rated and affordable ones in Bali .

Furthermore, some travelers might be interested in finding out which hotels are the most expensive ones in the area . Additionally, those who go there should know that there are some sacred mountains in Bali that they can check out during their stay.

However, those are not the only things one should know before they plan on traveling to Bali, so it is important for visitors to do some research on the area before they go. Bali is a stunning place, and in order to have the perfect trip there are just a few things to consider.

UPDATE: 2023/05/31 14:54 EST BY KHYATI DAND

More Things To Know Before Booking A Trip To Bali

Bali's lush forests, bubbling waterfalls, sweeping mountains, sacred temples, luxury wellness resorts, and sandy beaches attract thousands of visitors each month. As with any holiday destination, however, it's important to know a few things about Bali before visitors decide to cross the island off their bucket list. This list was updated to include more tips that future travelers will be glad they knew about before booking their flight ticket to the beautiful Indonesian island.

Related: 9 Things To Do In Bali: Complete Guide To The Island Of The Gods

Say Goodbye To Uber

The streets of Bali are packed with motorbikes not just because it's a fun way to travel, but also because it is a necessity. Uber doesn't exist in Bali, public buses tend to crawl at a snail's pace, and private taxi hires tend to be pretty costly. This is why motorbikes and scooters rule in Bali. Visitors can rent their own two-wheelers for nominal charges or download Grab and Gojek which are both Bali's versions of on-demand Ubers.

Gojek also doubles up as a food delivery app and the platform also offers a bike-sharing option alongside car rides.

Make Peace With The Monkeys

While the Ubud Monkey Forest and the Monkey Temple in Uluwatu are popular haunts for monkey spotting in Bali, the little creatures can be found all over the island and they're quite the pranksters! Food should be eaten in front of them at one's own risk, hotel doors and windows should be locked when not in the room, bags must never be left unattended, and it's best to hold onto one's personal belongings when out and about in Bali because there's nothing a Balinese monkey won't run away with -- including the sunglasses on the top of a none the wiser tourist's head.

• Hang Out With Monkeys In Their Sanctuary: Ubud Monkey Forest
• Address: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

Don't Fall For Tourist Price Tags (And Don't Be Afraid To Bargain)

Bali has a sea of opulent five-star wellness resorts which is why several shopping and dining spots cater to the affluent clientele and price their wares accordingly. Even temples are known to double their entrance fees for tourists! Don't fall for these traps as there are plenty of free attractions and good quality dining options as well as markets to shop from for travelers on a budget . Besides, most street sellers and small boutique owners are almost always willing to strike up a good deal so don't be afraid to bargain a little.

• Best Place To Shop On A Budget: Sukawati Art Market
• Address: Jalan Raya Sukawati, Sukawati, Kec. Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80582, Indonesia

There's No Place Like Home

Where a traveler is based should definitely be considered before booking a trip to Bali. Canggu is a party town that is super wild and the perfect spot to learn how to surf and dance until the wee hours. Ubud is a yogi haven in the jungle where travelers can visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary and the Saraswati Water Temple. Another killer destination is Uluwatu where pro surfers shred, and beach babes lay their heads.

• Ubud Lodging: Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel
• Address: Jl. Raya Pengosekan Ubud No.63, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

Not Every Beach Is Created Equal

Before flying to Bali for fun in the sun travelers must know that while the island is home to dozens of beautiful beaches, not all of them are selfie-worthy. Adventurous travelers should take a trek to the hidden gem, Nyang Nyang Beach for a special day away from the hustle and bustle of the must-visit surfer paradise of Uluwatu. For those who are here to lay out during the day and party at night head to Canggu. The local beach is perfect for beginners and is an incredible place to watch the sunset with a Bintang in hand.

• Surf Lessons In Canggu: In Da Surf Camp & School Canggu Bali
• Address: Jl. Kayu Tulang Gg. Ebony, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia

RELATED: Island Escape: These Are The 10 Most Beautiful Beaches In Bali

​​​​​​

Dress To Impress (Respectfully)

One might think that if they go to Bali, it is perfectly fine for them to wear beach attire everywhere. However, that is actually not the case. Balinese people dress conservatively, and it is disrespectful to show too much skin in temples. There are many bars, restaurants, and even some clubs that have a dress code as well.

So, people who are planning to visit Bali might want to consider packing a few different kinds of items to wear during their stay including shawls for women and pants for men. Visitors can always call places they wish to go to and find out if they have a dress code.

• Best Club In Bali: Single Fin In Uluwatu
• Address: Uluwatu, Pantai Suluban, Jl. Labuansait, Pecatu, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia

Bring An Umbrella-Ella-Ella

Travelers might be interested in knowing which stylish hotels in Bali are affordable , but that is not the only useful bit of information that they need to know. For example, something else a person should consider when they are thinking about planning a trip to Bali is that there might be rain. Those who go during Bali's off-season are likely to encounter rain during their stay. January, February, and October are months when it rains a lot in Bali. That shouldn't deter travelers though, visiting in the off-season offers a much more authentic experience on the island.

• Best Hotel Rain Or Shine: Hanging Gardens Of Bali
• Address: Buahan, Payangan, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80571, Indonesia

RELATED: When Should You Visit Bali? Here Is Everything To Know

Don't Be Surprised If It's Standing Room Only

Bali's busy, there's no two ways around it. Swarms of tourists visit the island year-round. In 2022 1.19 million visitors came to soak up the sights and sun. Travelers should mentally prepare themselves for long lines at every location they've seen on Instagram and if they're there to surf it may take a while to catch a wave of their own. With that being said, plenty of destinations on the island are off the beaten track such as Sidemen or Semarapura which is an awesome alternative to Ubud.

• Guide To Semarapura : Travel Guide
• Directions From Kuta: Map To Semarapura

Volcanoes Erupting Can Mean A No-Go

There are lots of luxury resorts in Bali that are super fun and relaxing places for everyone who visits them, but there are other things people should consider before going to Bali as well. For example, there are quite a few active volcanoes on the island. In fact, one of the volcanoes in Bali is called Mount Batur , and it is one of the most active volcanoes in Indonesia. This particular volcano has been known to erupt every few years.

• Mount Batur Tour: Sunrise Trekking With Breakfast
• Address: Banjar, Jl. Serongga Jl. Bukit Catu No.Ds, Songan A, Kec. Kintamani, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80614, Indonesia

Look Both Ways Before You Cross The Street In Bali

There are lots of amazing facts about Bali, but there are also some things that travelers who go there might not enjoy. Traffic is no joke on the island. In fact, sometimes the traffic in Bali is bad even when it is not rush hour. It can be hard for people to get somewhere on time. Travelers should consider this when they are thinking about booking a trip there. Safety precautions should also be taken. For instance, travelers should always wear a helmet and never drive while intoxicated.

• Scooter Rental: Surya Scooter Rental In Kuta
• Address: Jln Legian No.493, Legian, Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80361, Indonesia

Using the ridesharing service Gojek while in Bali is a game changer while visiting the island. Rides are super affordable and the drivers know how to maneuver anything that comes their way.

RELATED: This Tour Will Take You Through Bali's Most Famous Instagrammable Spots

Who Let The Dogs Out?

Puppy problems can arise while traveling Bali. While stray dogs are unquestionably adorable and most are total snuggle bunnies travelers should be cautious. Many dogs wander the streets and beaches of Bali , and they should be treated with respect. Tourists should give pups their distance since some dogs can be aggressive. Additionally, Bali dogs are very protective, and some people believe that they use specific barks for various kinds of threats that they might encounter, including snakes.

• Animal Sanctuary: Bali Wildlife Rescue Centre, Friend of the National Parks Foundation
• Address: Banjar Dukuh, Jl. Teratai No.49, Dauh Peken, Tabanan, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82113, Indonesia

It's hard not to fall in love with the furry friends that call Bali home. A great way to support them is to donate or adopt from various agencies on the island including Bali Dogs Association.

Bali Belly's Nothing To Be Worried About

Some travelers may have heard of "Bali Belly" or how visitors should be concerned about food poisoning while on the island. An upset tummy can ruin a trip, but it's easy to avoid. Tourists should only drink bottled water (also a good idea to use it when brushing their teeth), eat fruits with a peel...and then peel it before eating, and generally use common sense like they would anywhere. Local Indonesian cuisine is delicious and should be consumed by visitors. The fear of getting sick is a colonialist (and xenophobic) hangover that's grosser than any toilet emergency.

• Canggu's Best Warung: Warung Bu Mi
• Address: Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong No.52, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia

"Warung" is the Indonesian word for a small restaurant or kiosk. There are a variety of homemade foods to choose from and customers can pick and choose what they want to pile on their plate before sitting down. Warungs are also super affordable on top of offering the best cuisine on the island.

Leaving Tips Is Not Expected In Certain Places (But That Doesn't Mean You Shouldn't)

Leaving a tip is something many people do all over the world, but whether or not to tip when abroad in a murky subject. Those who choose to visit some of the small restaurants that are located there need to know that customers are not expected to leave tips there. But that is not the case for bars. Lots of people who work in bars in Bali depend on the tips that they receive. Whether or not it is suggested, the right thing to do is always to err on the side of generosity. The minimum wage in Bali is around $140 a month and as a guest to the island travelers should always tip.

• The Home Of Tattoo Taco Tuesday (Tip Please!) : Deus Ex Machina - Temple of Enthusiasm
• Address: Jl. Pantai Batu Mejan No.8, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia

Bring Your Best Hiking Boots (Or Sandals With Support)

Those who are thinking about going on a trip to Bali should make a list of the things that they will need to take with them beforehand. One of the things they should make sure to bring is a good pair of shoes because visitors tend to do a lot of walking when they visit Bali. Also, some of the walking that travelers do there is on very uneven steps, so it is important for people to have good pairs of shoes to wear when they go there. Hiking boots, supportive sandals with straps, and sneakers are all good options to throw in a backpack in addition to flip-flops.

• Best Hike Bali: Sekumpul Waterfalls Hike
• Address: Jalan Air Terjun Desa Sekumpul Kecamatan Sawan Kabupaten Buleleng, Kota Singaraja, Bali 81171, Indonesia

Leeches In Bali May Want To Suck Your Blood

Bali's beautiful, but the leeches in Bali are certainly not cute. Seeing a leech is not exactly uncommon in Bali (bummer). But the good news is that there are things travelers can do to keep the leeches away, or at least stop them in their tracks before they are out for blood. Wearing leech socks is a good idea . One can also tuck their pants into boots. If a person is not wearing a pair of boots, they can tuck their pants into their socks.

• Bali Outdoor Wear Shop: Arei Store Bali 2
• Address: Jl. Teuku Umar, Dauh Puri Kauh, Kec. Denpasar Bar., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80113, Indonesia

Bali Is A Great Place For Cheap Massages

There are a lot of really fun and relaxing things one can do when they take a trip to Bali, and one of those things is getting a massage. But the best part of that is the fact that massages are actually pretty affordable there. Additionally, some spas offer much more than a massage. Many of them offer customers a great view while they are getting their massages, and some even offer refreshments as well, such as a cup of tea.

• Bali's Best Massage: Putu Parwati Massage
• Address: Jl. Suweta No.45, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

RELATED: Tips, Tricks & Advice For Traveling Solo In Bali

Visitors Need To Cover Up If They Wish To Visit The Temples

There are more than 20,000 temples located in Bali, and lots of tourists enjoy visiting them. Travelers are expected to cover up before entering the temples. They should have shirts that cover their shoulders as well as their upper arms. Additionally, visitors need to wear something that covers their legs, such as a temple scarf or a sarong. It is important to respect customs like this when visiting Bali. Hinduism is the primary religion on the island and as an outsider, it is wise and polite to research temple etiquette before arriving at any holy location.

• Bali's Top Temple: Tanah Lot Temple
• Address: 93HP+GPH, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82121, Indonesia

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