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Bali – Island of Gods

Bali is unique, Bali is unmatched

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

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

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The Ultimate Quick-Guide to Bali in 3 minutes

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

Bali - Must Know & Facts

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

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

Click for updated VISA regulations per country

TRAVEL REGULATIONS

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

Click for updated TRAVEL regulations

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

• Check the Visa Regulations that apply to your nationality - Visa Regulations
• Check the general travel regulation & requirements you must follow before your arrival - Travel Regulations
• Fill in the custom declaration form for Indonesia BEFOE arrival (for available 72 hours before your arrival)
• Since 30.Aug every international traveler needs to fill in a health pass form due to MPOX. 
• Choose the season and best month for you to visit Bali - Weather Guide
• Become aware of the different destinations and what they offer. Each region is very different (nature, climate, hotels, "crowds", prices, transportation facilities, suitable for families, etc) - Destination Guide
• Get familiar a bit with the unique culture and customs - Culture Guide
• Book hotels and Villas that are well located according to your needs. Always check the map and understand walking distance to beach, attractions, restaurants etc). What looks nearby might not be, and an hotel calling itself X Seminyak, might not be really in Seminyak - Book Hotels & Book Villas
• Make a list of what you would like to do and experience. Bali offers hundreds of things to do, visit and explore and see how far these attractions and sites are away from your hotel location. Understanding how to get from A to B can make or break a holiday. Check out our Transportation Guide and plan beforehand - Transportation Guide
• Rent a scooter if you can drive one, which would male it much more easy to get from A to B - Scooter Rental
• Make sure you get online in Bali and get a Data package - SIM & e-SIM cards
• Browse through our travel guide and find out more about Bali and how to get ready - Travel Guide
• Last but not least: Get good deals and choose quality experiences - BaliCard Selection and Discounts on 100 villas, plenty of activities.

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

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

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

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

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Something for everyone

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

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

Tropical Climate

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

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

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

As long as you can.

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

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

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

Mid-Segment 3 to 4*

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

Luxury Segment 5* (Bali-Lux)

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

The Bali-Supreme Experience - The Best of the Best

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More about Transportation in Bali

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

International Driving License Online Application

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

More about the people and the culture of Bali

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

Basic Bahasa Indonesia Vocabulary 

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

Trekking Tours to Bali's Sacred Mountains

Travel Itinerary Suggestions for visiting Bali for the first time

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

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

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

More on Bali's Nightlife, Clubbing and Party Scene

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

Bali's Guide to How to Behave and Cultural Guidelines

Depends on how one defines a paradise

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

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

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

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

More on safety and health in Bali

Bali Destination Guide - Where to Stay in Bali

These are the most popular and best areas to stay and visit in Bali. Each destination in Bali is quite different and unique. It's good to get familiar with these areas before booking your hotel and choosing your itinerary. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Legian Good mix of family friendly and going-out options

Sanur Quiet beaches, family friendly, beautiful restaurants & hotels

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

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

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

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

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

3 Nusa Islands Lembongan, Ceningan, Penida - Diving, Nature, B lue Sea, White Beaches. Paradise

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

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

Padangbai & Harbour Small, quiet coastal town with good diving. Ferry terminal and speed boats to Lombok, Gilis

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

Gili Islands Paradise without cars, Party on Trawangan, Meno & Air are quiet.

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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 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.

Plan Your Bali Trip

Editor Hotel Recommendations

The Best Things to Do in Bali

Editor Recommendations

The Best Places to Eat and Drink in Bali

Editor Restaurant and Bar Recommendations

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More Destinations

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

Oct 29, 2023 • 8 min read

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

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

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

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

Grab a surfboard and catch the Bali pipeline

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

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

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

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

Raft the white waters of the Ayung Valley

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

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

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

Go on “safari” in Bali’s wild west

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

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

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

Align your chakras and live the yogi dream

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

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

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

Dive Bali’s tropical waters surrounded by splendor

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

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

Chill out at a private Bali beach club

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

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

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

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

Pamper yourself in a holistic Bali spa

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

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

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

Walk with pink buffaloes on a paddy field tour

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

Climb up Batur volcano at sunrise

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

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

Photograph Asia’s most colorful traditional fishing fleet

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

Stroll across the emerald expanses of Jatiluwih Paddies

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

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

This article was first published Aug 23, 2012 and updated Oct 29, 2023.

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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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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

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!

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.

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.

The Best of Bali

This trip will take you from the modern-day Bali to the traditional one. Bali has many adventures to offer, tour the countryside with a Vespa or glide through the hidden canyons. You will also be able to enjoy visits to enchanting villages, where you can take in the local way of life.

Java and Lombok - culture and beaches

Start your trip in Yogyakarta (also called Jogja) with its rich cultural past such as the Borobudur temple. From there continue to hike Mount Bromo and explore more of East Java in Malang and Surabaya. End your trip on the dreamy beaches of Kuta/Lombok, dubbed 'the next Bali'.

Singapore & Bali - A Unique Exploration

Combine Southeast Asia's smallest country Singapore with its largest country: Indonesia. Spend a few days exploring the metropolis before flying to the magical island of Bali. Temples, volcanoes and ceremonies are part of your itinerary, as are the gorgeous beaches of Nusa Lembongan.

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? Start with how many days is best to spend in Bali , and get in touch with our local experts who will assist you with every step of the planning process.

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 . Also read our breakdown of just how many days it's optimal to spend in Bali .

#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”.

Looking for more ideas for a relaxing holiday? Discover tranquillity in our list of the 20 most relaxing destinations for holidays .

#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.

Rough Guides tip: Check out our 6 expertly-crafted 14-day itineraries that allow you to combine your visit to Bali with other stunning destinations in Indonesia.

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.

Ready to explore Bali? Plan your transportation with our in-depth guide .

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 11.06.2024

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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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Best of Bali

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• in Capella Ubud- Bali
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• # 1 in Kuta
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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 .

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

By: Author Taylor Lorenz

Posted on Last updated: 10/25/2023

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Bali Fast Facts

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

Recommended Bali Tours

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

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

Bali Itinerary

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

Bali Trip Itineraries by Length

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

7 Day Itinerary

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

10 Day Itinerary

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

2 Week Itinerary

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

3 Week Itinerary

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

Breakdown of my Bali Trip Itinerary

Ubud: 3-4 Days

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Canggu: 2-3 Days

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

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

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

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

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

Seminyak: 1-2 Days

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

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

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

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

Bukit Peninsula (Uluwatu): 2 Days

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

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

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

Nusa Dua: 2-3 Days

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

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

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

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

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

Nusa Islands: 1-5 Days

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

I have detailed itineraries for each island:

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

Kuta: 1-2 Days

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

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

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

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

Munduk: 2-3 Days

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE: 8 Magical Things to do in Munduk

Amed: 2 Days

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

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

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

Lovina: 1-2 Days

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Bali

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

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

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

Bali Trip Budget

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Get to Bali

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

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

Travelling Around Bali

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

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

To get from the Bali airport to where you are staying

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

To get from destination to destination

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

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

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

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

Getting around in an area

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

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

Travel Insurance

READ MORE: 51 Tips for Backpacking Southeast Asia

Where to Go in Bali

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

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

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

READ MORE: 11 Best Yoga Retreats in Bali

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

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

Bukit Peninsula (Uluwatu)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Long to Spend in Bali?

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

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

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Bali 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

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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Southeast Asia

Latest Travel Regulations to Enter Bali as of 1 December 2022

You know what time it is? Yes, #ItstimeforBali! The President of Indonesia, Joko Widodo, imposed new regulations for those who are planning to travel to Bali. Since 14 October 2021, Bali has been gradually opening its doors to international tourists. On 3 February  2022, the inaugural commercial flight of Garuda Indonesia Airline carrying international tourists landed in Bali from Narita, Japan. By relaxing the travel restrictions to Bali, the Indonesian Government hopes that this move will be able to revitalize the country’s tourism.

On 7 March 2022, the government also applied a quarantine-free trial period and a Visa On Arrival (VOA) program for 23 selected countries. The list of countries was then extended to 42 on 22 March 2022, 43 countries on 6 April 2022, 60 countries on 28 April 2022,  72 countries on 30 May 2022, and then 75 countries on 27 July 2022. There are currently 86 countries listed based on the update on 23 September 2022.

On 10 November 2022, the government also launched an Electronic Visa on Arrive (eVOA) program to provide foreign travelers with an easier entry process. According to the Circular Letter of the Directorate General of Immigration No. IMI-0794.GR.01.01 of 2022 concerning the Immigration Policy regarding Electronic Visit Visa Services, Visit Visa on Arrival Services, and Free Visit Visa to Support Sustainable Tourism during the Covid-19 Pandemic, as of 1 December 2022, there are 86 countries eligible for the eVOA program.

Another great news to be noted is that from 18 May 2022, no RT-PCR test results are required to be taken prior to departure from the country or region of origin . 

In addition, the government has also launched Second Home Visa , Immigration on Shipping (IoS) , and recently, Electronic Visa on Arrival (eVOA) , which was effective from 10 November 2022. 

The Indonesian Government will ensure to keep their utmost efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19, namely by maintaining the  status as one of countries with the highest vaccination rates, as well as the country that consistently provides safety protocols for all visitors. As of 18 May 2022, Bali is one of the top 3 provinces with highest vaccination rates and also one of the highest numbers of CHSE certifications. 

1. Pre-departure Preparation

Before departing to Bali, you need to prepare yourself with the information about the Visa and requirements to enter Indonesia.

Entering with Visa on Arrival and Visa Exemption Facility

According to the Circular Letter of the Directorate General of Immigration No. IMI-0708.GR.01.01 of 2022 concerning the Ease of Immigration to Support Sustainable Tourism during the COVID-19 Pandemic effective from 23 September 2022, there are 86 countries that are eligible for VIsa on Arrival (VOA) program. 

In addition, according to the  Circular Letter of the Directorate General of Immigration No. IMI-0708.GR.01.01 of 2022 concerning the Ease of Immigration to Support Sustainable Tourism during the COVID-19 Pandemic effective from 23 September 2022, the Indonesian government has also implemented a Visa Exemption Arrangement facility to 9 countries.

More details about the eligible countries, updated rules, regulations, and ports of entries for Visa On Arrival and Visa Exemption Facilities can be read on this link and can be summarized as follows:

• Passport (diplomatic/official/ordinary) that is valid for a minimum of 6 (six) months,
• A return ticket or a pass to continue the trip to another country, and
• Proof of payment of PNBP Visa on Arrival of 500,000 IDR (in the case of applying for a Visa on Arrival for Leisure Purpose)
• The entry stamp on the granting of a Visit Visa Exemption or Visa on Arrival for Leisure Purpose will be valid as a Visit Stay Permit with the certain period, as follows: a) Visit Visa Exemption: maximum 30 days and cannot be extended. b) Visa on Arrival: maximum of 30 days and can be extended once for another 30 days at the Immigration Office in the area where the foreign national lives. 
• Visit Visa Exemption or Visa on Arrival for Leisure Purpose can also be granted for foreign nationals on official visit or government duties to attend international events, for which shall be applied additional requirement: to enclose an invitation letter issued by the Indonesian government to attend the international conferences/trials/meetings.
• The provision of Visit Visa Exemption or Visa on Arrival for Leisure Purpose as stipulated above applies to holders of diplomatic passports, service passports, or ordinary/general passports.

Entering with eVOA

You can visit this link to find out more information about eVOA, as well as this page to gather the details about eVOA registration .

2. Arrival protocols

When you have arrived in Bali, there are several measures you need to take before you can continue your trip. According to the Circular Letter of the COVID-19 Task Force Number 25 of 2022 concerning Health Protocols for International Travel during the COVID-19 Pandemic, as of 31 August 2022, all international travelers, whether they are Indonesian citizens or foreign nationals, should comply with all the detailed regulations on this link .

The protocols can be summarized as follows:

1. All foreign travelers (foreign nationals) who will enter the territory of the Republic of Indonesia shall adjust their travel documents to ensure compliance with the provisions regarding the foreign travelers allowed to enter the territory of Indonesia, which includes Covid-19 vaccination certificates, recommended health protocols, along with the use of  PeduliLindungi  application while in Indonesia. Provisions for RT-PCR examination and quarantine period are not required except under certain conditions.

2. Foreign travelers must show a card/certificate (physical or digital) proving that you have received two doses of COVID-19 vaccine administered at least 14 days before departure.

Foreign travelers who undergo post-COVID recovery are allowed to continue the journey by attaching a doctor's certificate from the Government Hospital of the country of departure or the ministry that carries out government affairs in the health sector in the country of departure stating that the person concerned is no longer actively transmitting COVID-19 or the COVID-19 recovery certificate;

Foreign travelers with special health conditions or comorbidities that cause travelers to have not and/or unable to receive the COVID-19 vaccination, are allowed to continue the journey by attaching a doctor's certificate from the Government Hospital from the country of departure, stating that the person concerned has not and/or is unable to take part in the COVID-19 vaccination.

3. Upon arrival at the entry points, foreign travelers must undergo a COVID-19 symptom check, including a body temperature check, with the following conditions :

If there is no symptom of COVID-19 and body temperature is below 37.5 degrees Celsius:  no need to undergo RT-PCR examination upon arrival

If there is any symptom of COVID-19 or body temperature above 37.5 degrees Celsius:  must undergo RT-PCR examination upon arrival. 

4. As a requirement for domestic travel or departure abroad from Indonesia, international travelers with the status of Indonesian citizens aged 18 years and above must present a card/certificate (physical or digital) of receiving the second dose of COVID-19 vaccine displayed through the PeduliLindungi application. You can check out this link to find out about the detailed regulations for domestic travel.

5. The provision regarding the period of isolation (quarantine) no longer applies. All foreign travelers without symptoms related to COVID-19 and whose body temperature is below 37.5 degrees Celsius are able to continue their journey. However, it is highly recommended to monitor their health independently.

6. Health protocols must meet these requirements:

Wearing 3 ply of fabric mask or medical grade mask, covering nose, mouth, and chin at indoor settings or any crowded situations;

Replacing the mask regularly within every 4 hours, and dispose the waste in the proper place;

Washing hands regularly with water and soap or hand sanitizers;

Maintaining social distance for a minimum of 1.5 meters and avoiding crowds; and

Keeping in mind that it is advised not to have one-way or two-way communication by telephone or in person throughout the trip using public transportation modes of land, rail, sea, river, lake, ferry, and air.

7. The above policies are temporary and will be readjusted according to global health developments.

Please make sure that you are tested by  the affiliated laboratories  so that the results will be directly connected to the PeduliLindungi app.

Furthermore, you can  visit here  to get a one stop service for your travel requirements in Bali. Kindly  click here  to browse all the accommodations and tourism destinations in Bali that have been granted the CHSE (Cleanliness, Health, Safety, and Environmental Sustainability) certification. Beside booking at your favorite accommodation among the listed hotels, villas, and resorts, come check out these  Live on Board  providers for new exciting experiences.

Remember to always comply with all the health protocols while enjoying the best of Bali again. Do keep yourself updated with the latest information about traveling regulations in Bali by checking out  this page .

Come follow our Instagram  @wonderfulindonesia , Facebook  @WonderfulIndonesia , Twitter  @wonderfulid , TikTok  @wonderfulid , and our Youtube  Wonderful Indonesia  to keep an eye out on the latest news about Indonesia’s tourism as well as awe-inspiring trip ideas.

*Disclaimer: This article was updated on January 16, 2023. Due to the dynamic nature of travel regulations, please stay updated and confirm your itinerary with your chosen travel providers.

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An essential guide to Bali for first-time visitors

Everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to this tropical paradise

Sure, Eat, Pray, Love might have given you some itinerary stops. But chances are, you switched off the movie at the end with a whole load of bucket list items and not much else.

Like all good scouts will tell you, failing to prepare is preparing to fail. And the best way to make the most of Indonesia’s most popular island is by establishing the essentials before you venture to paradise. Namely: where to go, when to go, and what to bring. 

Heading to Bali for the first time? We’ve got you covered with the most frequently asked questions by travellers.

RECOMMENDED: The absolute best things to do in Bali  and The best hotels in Bali from luxury resorts to affordable stays

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Frequently asked questions

When's the best time to visit bali.

Short answer: April to October. 

Bali's tropical climate means it’s hot and humid all year round, but it has two distinct seasons: wet and dry. The April to October dry season is the busiest of the year, with endless sunshine, perfect waves for surfers, and prime adventuring conditions. 

But don’t totally rule out the wet season (November to March) if you prefer a quieter experience and cheaper rates. Sure, you’ll get some rain (okay, a lot of rain), but it often comes in short, sharp bursts. 

The island’s natural beauty can be even more striking when it’s dripping in a fresh post-rain glow. Just give yourself a little extra leeway for things like volcano hikes and boat trips. Sometimes, during particularly heavy rain, boats and excursions can be cancelled for a few days. And it would be a real shame if you found yourself stranded in this tropical paradise for longer, right?

Which part of Bali should I stay in?

Sure, it's a cliche, but Bali’s got something for everyone.

Seminyak & Canggu: If you’re after beach clubs, world-class restaurants, and boutique shopping, these are your spots. Seminyak is the glossier older sibling, while Canggu is the more laid-back surfer cousin. Both are brilliant for catching sunsets with a cocktail in hand. 

Ubud: Dreaming of serene jungle escapes and spiritual healing? Ubud’s your go-to. This place is a yoga lover’s paradise, full of wellness retreats, meditation spots, and art galleries. Make sure to squeeze in a visit to the famous Monkey Forest – just hold on to your sunglasses. 

From Ubud, you can also drive north up to Kintamani, where you’ll find Mount Batur. If you’re spending longer in Bali, check into one of Kintamani’s hotels above the clouds for a (literal) breath of fresh air in a slightly less-visited location. 

Uluwatu & Jimbaran: Down south, you’ve got dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and some of Bali’s most breathtaking views. Uluwatu is a surfer’s haven, with the island's best waves and sunsets to match. Jimbaran is more about laid-back luxury. Expect quiet, pristine beaches and fresh seafood served up in front of the ocean.

Nusa Dua & Sanur: If you’re looking for calm, family-friendly vibes, Nusa Dua and Sanur are ideal. Nusa Dua is home to many of Bali’s luxury resorts, with gorgeous private beaches. 

Sanur is more understated but just as peaceful—perfect for cycling along the beach promenade or chilling out on Bali’s less chaotic coast. It’s also the launchpad for Bali's nearby islands, Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida. If you've got the time, it's worth spending a few days exploring those.

Do I need a visa for Bali?

For tourists from many countries, including most of Europe, Australia, and the US, you get a Visa on Arrival (VoA) for $35 USD, allowing you to stay for up to 30 days. This can also be extended once for an additional 30 days if you’re not quite ready to say goodbye.

If you plan to stay longer or have special requirements, you might want to look into a B211 visa, which lasts for up to six months. 

These are typically processed with a visa agency: Bali Visas is one of the most popular and reliable options around. Make sure you check the latest regulations before you go – Bali is constantly updating its rules.

What’s the currency in Bali?

Wondered what it's like to be a millionaire? Welcome to the world of Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) where you'll casually drop a 50,000 note on a drink or two. 

The exchange rate fluctuates, but generally, $1 USD is around 15,000 IDR and £1 is around 20,000 IDR. A Bintang beer might cost you 25,000 IDR (roughly $1.50 USD / £1.20), while a meal in one of Canggu or Nusa Dua's fancy restaurants can set you back 200,000 IDR ($13 USD / £10) or more.

While Bali's main tourist hubs take cards, you'll want to bring cash for eating at warungs (small, locally owned restaurants), tipping local drivers, heading off the beaten track, or making other small transactions.

There are ATMs all over the place, but it's safest to use the ones attached to banks. There are also currency conversion shops in all the main towns, but be sure to count your money before you leave as these spots are renowned for scams. 

What should I pack for Bali?

Think: tropical island chic with a dash of practical adventuring. 

Bali is hot and humid, so loose, lightweight clothes are key. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses for sun protection. If you're heading up north or hiking a volcano, bring a jacket for the cooler temperatures. 

Also, pack a sarong to be used as a beach cover-up, a towel, or to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples. 

Mosquito repellent is non-negotiable. Bali’s lush, tropical environment means mosquitos are always around, so arm yourself with a good repellent. Dengue fever doesn't discriminate. 

Protect your skin and Bali’s coral reefs by opting for eco-friendly sunscreen. While you can buy it on the island, it's typically far cheaper to buy it at home. 

Bali is on a mission to reduce single-use plastic, so do your bit by carrying a reusable water bottle. Many cafes and hotels now offer filtered water refills.

Explore Bali

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The 11 most unforgettable beaches in Bali

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• Asia Pacific

A First-Timer’s Guide to the Best Spots in Bali, Indonesia

by Erin Van Der Meer

Photograph by Erin Van Der Meer

Make a splash at Mrs Sippy. (Photo: Courtesy of Mrs Sippy)

Bali was once a magnet for backpackers and surfers drawn to the Indonesian island’s tropical climate, friendly locals, and laid-back vibe. But in recent years, a wave of stylish hotels and hip eateries have sprung up to cater to an increasingly sophisticated crowd.

From flashy Seminyak to bohemian Canggu, peaceful yoga hub Ubud and surfer’s paradise Uluwatu, there’s much to uncover.

Seminyak’s unofficial motto is ‘swim, eat, drink, repeat.’ It’s home to Bali’s most sophisticated restaurant scene, not to mention some of the most stylish hotels on the island.

Mama San is a modern South East Asian spot with mouth-watering food and cocktails—order the crispy lemongrass chicken with green mango papaya som tum and sweet chilli sauce. For a day club vibe, try out Mrs Sippy, a bar/restaurant/pool combo where the menu diverges from your typical deckchair fare with dishes like pumpkin, kale and ricotta salad.

Meanwhile, new addition Da Maria aims to ‘bring the Amalfi Coast to Bali.’ The Instagram-able space serves up Napoli-approved pizza and a mostly Italian drinks list, including pinot grigio, chianti, and apertivo.

If a quintessential Seminyak experience is what you’re after, head to the glamorous Potato Head Beach Club . Go early go nab a spot for sunset and while you wait, you can hang by the pool as the waves crash on the rocks below, snacking on authentic Indonesian cuisine.

For a slower pace than Seminyak, head about half an hour up the coast to Canggu, a five-mile stretch of killer surf break and fishing villages that offers a more authentic experience of the ‘real’ Bali.

Cycling through rice fields and wandering around markets are the two main activities here aside from surfing, swimming, and eating—of course. Canggu is a hipster café dream; smoothies, acai bowls, and avocado toast, as well as nutritious modern takes on Indonesian fare reign supreme at cool kid spots like Crate Café, Betelnut Café, Milk & Madu , Poke Poke, and Deus Café .

At sunset head to The Lawn , a sprawling stretch of grass overlooking the ocean where you can enjoy food and drinks on an array of mats and cushions on the ground, or on the large deck strung with fairy lights.

For fine-dining, don’t miss Sangsaka ‘s modern take on traditional Indonesian cuisine; order the charred wagyu beef with coconut curry, or charcoal chicken with turmeric and baby beans.

An hour north of Seminyak and away from the coast is Ubud, famous for its green hills, Hindu temples, and terraced rice paddies, as well as a yoga scene that’s been booming since Elizabeth Gilbert wrote about the area in Eat, Pray, Love .

Locavore spots rule the fine-dining scene in Ubud, where local ingredients are prepared and presented in an uber-modern style by world-class chefs, and buzzy ingredients like duck eggs, wildflowers, and fermented produce make the menu.

For a more casual atmosphere, go for crispy skin chicken and spare ribs at Urbana. Either way, you can burn off your meal with a next-day sunrise hike to Mount Batur (the 2 a.m. start time is worth it), a stroll along the Campuhan Ridge Walk (refuel at Karsa Cafe at the end of the trail), a visit to Tirta Empul Temple where locals worship in the water, or shopping for locally-made goods such as silk scarves and woven bags at the Ubud Art Market opposite the Royal Palace.

Beloved by board riders thanks to reliably good surf breaks, Uluwatu—on Bali’s southwest peninsula—has a look and feel entirely different from that of Seminyak or Canggu.

Single Fin Bar is an Uluwatu institution, especially in the afternoon when flip-flop clad surfers and land-dwellers alike gather to sink cold Bintangs as the sun sets. The menu consists of standard pub fare like fried noodles, pizza and burgers.

If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, go for drinks and dinner at Rock Bar. Accessible only by an inclinator due to its location—it’s nestled on a rock formation that juts out from the coastline—the 360-degree ocean views, soundtrack of crashing waves, and the innovative cocktail menu (trust us and go for the lychee martini) make it an unparalleled experience in Bali, if not the world.

Dine on a seafood-driven menu of fish, grilled octopus, shrimp and lobster with a Greek influence—don’t skip the Greek dips and salads, as well as the sargali rolls stuffed with pistachios and walnuts for dessert.

While you’re in town, don’t forget to visit Dreamland Beach, arguably the most stunning stretch of white sand in the area, and visit the ancient Uluwatu Temple. Just make sure you hold tight to your things—the monkeys that inhabit the temple are known to snatch up unaware tourists’ belongings.

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Mercure Resort Sanur

Beachfront bali bliss with two pools, spa & oceanfront restaurants.

Immerse yourself in the tranquil allure of Bali at this beachfront beauty located on the island’s serene eastern coastline. This lush retreat offers an authentic Balinese experience, surrounded by verdant tropical gardens and the shimmering Indian Ocean. Dine on traditional Indonesian cuisine at the onsite Pandawa Restaurant, or sip on refreshing cocktails at The Breeze Bar.

Sanjivani Spa will eliminate any kind of stress with Balinese massages that are deep rooted in Ayurvedic science. Flip a coin and choose which pool to jump into or head to the beach for some Vitamin Sea. A short stroll away, discover Sanur’s vibrant local markets, artisan boutiques and charming eateries. For the adventurous, the nearby Le Mayeur Museum and Blanjong Temple offer a fascinating glimpse into Bali’s rich cultural heritage.