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Ubud is a place where traditional Balinese culture imbues every waking moment, colorful offerings adorn the streets, and the hypnotic strains of gamelan are an ever-present soundtrack to everyday life.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Agung Rai Museum of Art

If you only visit one museum in Ubud, make it this one. Founder Agung Rai built his fortune selling Balinese artwork to foreigners in the 1970s, and…

Neka Art Museum

Offering an excellent introduction to Balinese art, the top-notch collection is displayed in a series of pavilions and halls. Don't miss the multiroom…

Ubud Monkey Forest

This cool and dense swath of jungle officially houses three holy temples. The sanctuary is inhabited by a band of over 600 grey-haired and greedy long…

Every evening beginning after 5pm, up to 20,000 big herons fly in to Petulu, a village about 2.5km north of Jl Raya Ubud, squabbling over the prime…

Pura Taman Saraswati

Waters from the temple at the rear of this site feed the pond in the front, which overflows with pretty lotus blossoms. There are carvings that honour…

Museum Puri Lukisan

It was in Ubud that the modern Balinese art movement started, when artists first began to abandon purely religious themes and court subjects for scenes of…

Ubud Palace

This modest palace and its temple, Puri Saren Agung, share a compound in the heart of Ubud. Most of its structures were built after the 1917 earthquake…

Pura Gunung Lebah

This old temple, which sits on a jutting rock at the confluence of two tributaries of Sungai Cerik (campuan means 'two rivers'), has recently benefited…

Latest stories from Ubud

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In the last thirty years Rosita Boland has visited some of the most remote parts of the globe, carrying little more than a battered rucksack and a diary…

May 12, 2015 • 5 min read

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Ubud, Bali – The Ultimate Ubud Travel Guide

Ubud is one of the most popular destinations to visit in Bali, Indonesia. From incredible waterfalls and rice terraces, to volcano hikes, yoga classes and massages, find out the top things to do, places to visit, eat, drink, and of course, a few of my special tips for travelling around the region in my Ubud blog! 

Ubud is one of those super cool towns I’d read about before I visited Bali in Indonesia . Friends raved about the natural beauty, the spas, food, waterfalls, day trips, yoga and more. I felt like everyone had a favourite spot in the area, and feeling cynical I wondered whether it was going to be horribly overhyped and touristy!

You know what? It really wasn’t. I mean, there were plenty of people visiting but it didn’t have that horrible touristy vibe where you feel like all real culture has been lost. It lived up to the hype, and perhaps even surpassed beyond my expectations.

It’s also incredibly budget-friendly. So after spending so many enjoyable days there, I wanted to write this Ubud travel blog with a few of my top places to visit and things to do. Some are obvious (hello rice terraces and waterfalls!) and some are places that I discovered with my friends and couldn’t wait to share!

Planning your trip to Bali? Here are a few quick highlights:

Top Things To Do In Ubud, Bali – The Ultimate Ubud Guide 

Tegalalang rice terraces.

Ubud’s most iconic photos are of the beautiful lush rice paddies to the north of the town. They’re as stunning as the photos, and the green is so bright, you feel like you’ve cranked up the saturation!

You can enter free of charge, but to continue to different sections, you’ll pay small fees (a few IDR). You can also pay to have photos at the famous Love Bali sign or to pose with one of the workers in the famous hats!

Mount Batur Sunrise Trek  

Easily one of the most challenging things I did during my time in Indonesia, but also the most rewarding. I’d recommend this hike to everyone – all fitness levels, all holiday styles.

You can find out more about it in my post here, but I think the photos probably tell you everything you need to know! While it’s not IN Ubud, the tours run from the town daily.

Toya Devasya Hot Springs  

I visited these hot springs just after completing the Mount Batur sunrise trek . The series of swimming pools were located right on the lake, making it a truly spectacular place to reflect on an adventurous morning.

While I visited as part of a tour, you could hop on a scooter to visit the area.

The Elephant Cave (Goa Gajah)

Goa Gajah (aka the Elephant Cave) is an ancient temple built in the 9th century. There are lots of carvings on the stone on the entrance to the cave.

The actual cave itself is tiny! In front of the cave is a large bathing pool featuring five statues depicting Hindu angels holding vases that act as waterspouts. There are also beautiful gardens to explore. Entrance fee: 15,000 IDR.

Top tip: There are plenty of people selling sarongs outside saying you need one to enter, but they actually include one in the price of your ticket, so don’t be fooled!

Goa Rang Reng Waterfall

I remember the moment we arrived at this waterfall, and what a moment it was! Beautiful cascading falls splashing down the rock edge, with a large pool to bathe in at the top. It’s a steep (and often slippery) climb up to the top, but there’s a rope to help steady you.

To reach the falls you walk through stunning jungle trail lovely trail, plus there’s a cave to explore too! When I visited there were about 8 other people there, and at one point we had it all to ourselves.

Tegenungan Waterfall

The most famous waterfall near Ubud, Tegenungan is very impressive! It’s a great place to cool off on a sticky day, but at this one, be prepared for the crowds. Entrance fee: 10,000 IDR but you’ll pay around 10,000 extra to visit the other side.

  A post shared by #balipunyacerita (@bali_punya_cerita) on Apr 22, 2017 at 6:00pm PDT

Monkey Forest, Ubud

I was a little apprehensive about visiting Ubud’s famous Monkey Forest as I’d heard so many stories about monkeys grabbing phones, sunglasses and more. Then days before our visit, two monkeys had started going at it on someone’s head! There are over 700 monkeys in the forest and plenty had adorable little babies.

It’s also worth mentioning there are plenty of monkeys around the entrance and causing chaos along the main road. It’s not a zoo – they’re free to roam where they wish, but no doubt enjoy the forest for the food that’s fed to them by tourists each day. I’d assumed the monkeys were the main thing to see here, but there were three lovely temples, a river and of course the beautiful forest full of tall trees and banyans to explore too. Entrance fee: 50,000 IDR.

Yoga in Ubud

With Ubud being such a beautiful, peaceful region, full of nature, it’s no wonder many flock there for relaxation and mindfulness. While I don’t claim to be a yogi, The Yoga Barn came highly recommended by friends and travellers I met along the way. Daily classes run from 7am until 8pm and there are options for all abilities and styles.

They also run retreats if you’re looking for a more focused approach. Prices start from 130,000 IDR (approx. £7.60) for a one-off visit, but you’ll pay less if you book more classes.

Where next in Indonesia? Find out about travel in the Gili Islands , Yogyakarta , Jakarta , Bandung  and Raja Ampat .

Top Places To Eat And Drink In Ubud

There are so many cafes, restaurants and bars in Ubud, and many of them are excellent. The area is famous for its vegan/healthy foods, but there’s plenty of great satay, nasi goreng (fried rice) and mie goreng (fried noodles) on offer too! You’ll also find plenty of western-style restaurants if you’re craving a little taste of home.

Ubud and Digital Nomads

It’s also worth mentioning that Ubud is a popular town for digital nomads, so there are lots of cafes with excellent coffee and strong wifi, where they’re happy for you to sit for hours nursing one cup of coffee! My travel buddy Emily put together a great round up of the best cafes to work from in Ubud , so check that out if you’re looking for somewhere to pitch up for the day!

This was one of my favourite spots in Ubud. I started the day heading to their café across the river, only to discover they’d moved to a new location right in the town. This beautiful garden-like café was being finished (we watched as fish were brought to their new pool at the edge of the seating area!) It’s Instagram-friendly (check out the décor), has a delicious healthy menu of juices, brunch dishes and great coffee.

I loved the relaxed vibe, in particular the lounge area upstairs where people were tapping away on laptops while lazing on gigantic cushions. Oh and once you’ve finished upstairs, the more adventurous out there can slide down the fireman’s pole! Prices weren’t too bad wither – I enjoyed a huge salad plus an iced latte for 114,000 IDR (approx. £6.70).

Warung Bendega

The food here was absolutely delicious. We enjoyed Thai lime chicken, ayam jejurek (a flavoursome chicken dish) and ayam rica rica (a spicy chilli chicken dish). It’s a tourist restaurant but the food was good, atmosphere relaxed and prices were reasonable.

Mama’s Warung

I’d been told this was home to some of the best satay sauce in Ubud, and wow was it good! It’s a tiny restaurant, and very basic in style – more of a lunch place than a dinner place.

I started with an amazing ginger, lime and mint drink – so good I ordered a second glass. We had a generous portion of fried spring rolls (of course with Mama’s famous peanut sauce!), deep fried aubergine and a large mie goreng (fried noodles). A meal for three with drinks came to 186,000 – just over £10! What a bargain!

Burger Shop

This little restaurant caught my eye several times with its big menu of burgers and tasty looking shoestring fries. After completing the huge challenge of climbing Mount Batur, we decided to reward ourselves here – and the burgers certainly didn’t disappoint!

Chill Out Bar and Restaurant

While I heard this was a buzzy place in the evenings with live music and alcoholic drinks, it’s a relaxed spot in the day with good Wi-Fi and delicious milkshakes, plus they bring you free tortilla chips to ward off any hunger pangs!

Ubud Hotels: Where To Stay In Ubud

When it comes to Ubud accommodation, this is a town where you get a lot for your money. While there are a few larger hotels out of town (including luxury brands Viceroy and Four Seasons), the majority in the town centre are small guesthouses, villas and B&Bs.

Many have pools, great facilities and include breakfast. To be honest, I was surprised that there were so many Ubud hotels with private pools – it really is an amazing place for value!

READ MORE:  Where To Stay In Bali – Whole Island Guide (Budget – Luxury)

Budget ubud hotels (under £40 per night).

This is a great town if you’re on a budget. You can stay in an Ubud hostel for as little as £5 a night, so it’s no wonder a lot of backpackers enjoy this part of Bali. Time to reveal the best places to stay in Ubud on a budget.

Permana Ubud Cottage – we spent our time at this small hotel overlooking the rice paddies. For 300,000 IDR a night for a double room (approx. £17), we enjoyed a complimentary breakfast on our terrace each day, and had access to a cute outdoor pool.

Check availability and latest prices here .

Siwaya Villa – Rent your own beautiful villa for as little as £40 a night. With a great pool and set in the rice paddies, it’s a little slice of Bali paradise! It’s a short walk into the centre of Ubud, so you can enjoy the peace and quiet or immerse yourself in the busy town depending on what you fancy.

Check availability and latest prices here.

In Da Lodge – Without a doubt, this is one of the cheapest places to stay in Ubud (when I looked there were beds in dorms available for as little as £3 per night!). This hostel is right in the centre of Ubud and offers pretty standard hostel amenities – dorms, bathrooms and communal areas. It’s a great place to meet other solo travellers and even has a pool – amazing value for the price.

READ MORE: Ubud Hotels – Where To Stay In Ubud, Bali 

Mid-price hotels in ubud, bali (£40 – £100 per night)  .

Biyukukung Suite and Spa, Ubud – Ten minutes from Ubud’s Monkey Forest, this collection of bamboo overlooks the Balinese rice fields. For the price, this is a pretty luxurious option, with a pool and a few restaurants on site.

Alamdini Resort Ubud – The suites at this beautiful new Ubud resort get great reviews. They look lovely and luxurious, with balconies overlooking the jungle. There’s a large outdoor pool overlooking lush tropical greenery, and it’s just a short walk to the centre of Ubud for shopping and restaurant options.

Artotel Haniman Ubud – Just a short walk from the Monkey Forest, this modern hotel is clean and new, with a restaurant and swimming pool. Compared to a lot of Ubud’s hotels this is different, with its quirky arty theme and colourful works on the walls. I love the look of their spacious studios with balconies – looks like the perfect option for couples looking for somewhere to stay in Ubud.

Luxury Hotels In Ubud, Bali (£100+ per night)

Bali is a popular honeymoon destination, and when you see some of these luxury Ubud hotels you’ll understand why!

Adiwana Resort Jembawan – This is one of the best resorts in Ubud, especially if you want to be close to the town centre. Luxurious and smart, there’s a wonderful pool, spa options and yoga on site. It’s also moments from Ubud Palace, so perfect for walking into town for meals and shopping, or to check out attractions like the Monkey Forest.

READ MORE: Top Things To Do In Ubud: The Best Tours, Attractions And Activities

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan – One of Ubud’s most luxurious hotels, the Four Seasons Resort Bali is a ten-minute drive from the centre of town. It’s located in the most stunning area of jungle, and has world-class facilities including beautiful infinity pools, spacious villas, a top spa and great restaurant options. This is my top honeymoon resort recommendation too, as I’d say it’s one of the most unique places to stay in Ubud. Just look at it!

KajaNe Mua Ubud Villas And Hotel – Another amazing town centre option, this 5-star villa resort is on Monkey Forest Road, moments from Ubud Palace. The rooms are super smart, service is next level plus there’s a great pool, spa and gardens.

Hanging Gardens Of Bali – One of the best resorts in Ubud, this five-star hotel really is stunning! That infinity pool!! Accommodation here is in villas which have large terraces or balconies with views of the jungle. There’s also a spa, restaurant and bar. This is another super special place to stay in Ubud, especially if you’re on honeymoon.

Komaneka at Bisma Ubud – This beautiful hillside Ubud hotel offers clear views of Campuhan River, coconut plantations and rice fields. Along with smart, spacious rooms, the resort has two outdoor pools, a restaurant, and a spa. The suites look particularly nice!

Viceroy Bali – Another five-star Ubud hotel, Viceroy Bali is located up in the highlands of Ubud. Stay in a luxurious villas with your own private pool or take a dip in the hotel’s main infinity pool overlooking the lush jungle. Hotel experiences like this come at a premium, but if you’re looking for one of the best places to stay in Ubud, then this might just be it!

Spas In Ubud

Ubud is overrun with spas! I read it was one of the massage capitals of the world when you look at the ratio of masseurs to visitors. It’s a town where it’s easy to walk into a spa and be lying down for a massage in a matter of minutes. One thing I’d say is that quality REALLY varies. I was hoping to include a few links to my top spa experiences in Ubud (after all I had two massages and a pedicure in just a few days!) but I don’t know whether I’d truly recommend the experiences, and I always like to be totally honest.

Prices start around 55,000 IDR for an hour’s massage (£3.20) and go up to prices in the million rupiahs (£70+). Obviously the more expensive massages are in more luxurious settings, but a lot of it is about the masseur you get.

I visited Pratama Spa in Ubud for a full body massage and a pedicure. It cost 125,000 IDR in total (around £7.50) so it was incredibly cheap. The massage was good and the pedicure pretty average. The overall experience wasn’t that relaxing, so if that’s why you’re visiting, I’d pay a little more for a more pleasant setting.

I also visited Glory Spa in Ubud, which was very close to where we were staying. My partner and I enjoyed a couple’s massage for 80,000 IDR each (approx £4.70). While it was nice to be in the same room as him, my masseuse had extremely long, sharp fingernails, and it really wasn’t very comfortable.

My partner however, loved his massage, and claimed it was one of the best he’d ever had… so it really does depend who you get! I hope you have better luck than me!

Travel In Ubud

Scooters are really popular in Indonesia, and you can rent one for a day for around 30,000-50,000 IDR (just a few £/$s!) Lots of tourists ride them and no one travels all that fast. Saying that, there are accidents frequently and police crack down on tourists who aren’t obeying the rules.

Several people got stopped in Ubud for a very unclear right hand turn that wasn’t permitted. Quality varies too, and one of the ones we rented struggled to get up hills. Ubud and the surroundings is quite hilly, so take that into account if you’re a new driver.

Taxi service Uber works in Ubud and generally works out significantly cheaper than local taxis. Locals haven’t embraced the service, and as a result they’re not permitted in some areas. You may have to choose a pick up location away from major hotels or shops. We had a few problems when travelling by Uber in Bali.

Despite always opting to pay by account, one driver suggested we pay in cash in the vehicle (no doubt we would have been charged twice). Travelling to Uluwatu, we were dropped at our destination only to discover the driver hadn’t ended the journey so was charging us for his return journey. Be aware and ready to check whether you’ve been charged correctly!

If you’re happier travelling by car, you could look at hiring a vehicle for your trip. After checking a few sites, I found some really good offers on Holiday Autos .

Using Mobile Phones In Ubud

I have a mobile (cell phone) contract with Three , which is absolutely amazing for travel. Their Feel At Home plan works in 42 countries, allowing you to use your phone tariff as normal when you’re away. Thankfully, Indonesia is on the list, so Three is perfect for anyone spending time in Bali.

I hope some of this info helps you travel around Ubud in Bali. Let me know if you have any questions!

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

6 thoughts on “Ubud, Bali – The Ultimate Ubud Travel Guide”

Ubud is just amazing!

It’s gorgeous isn’t it!! I loved it there – such happy memories!

Love all the activities you’ve mentioned here. Many happy memories of climbing Mount Batur for the sunrise, and of the Monkey Forest. When I arrived in Ubud I was mostly taken aback by the amazing cafes and restaurants though! After two months travelling through South East Asia in remote places my eyes opened wide at the sight and smell and taste of feta cheese and chilled white wine. The restaurants you mention above sound fab and I need a visit again soon!

Wow yes I know what you mean! The restaurants in Ubud were fab and multicultural too. Ahhh such happy memories for me too!

Thanks so much for this post! I haven’t been to Ubud before so I’ve essentially got majority of this on my list to see/do – now the question is HOW to fit it all in! Sarah

I know Sarah – sometimes it’s so hard to choose when you only have limited time! I’d definitely say the rice terraces and Mount Batur! Love it there – have a great time!

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15 Best Things To Do in Ubud, Bali

Located in the center of beautiful Bali lies the popular art city of Ubud. Surrounded by stunning rice terraces, countless waterfalls, yoga retreats, and the towering Mount Batur, it’s one of the most incredible locations on the island. Everyone spends their time differently here, from relaxing in an eco-retreat and exploring the lush nature to visiting holy water temples. Spend a few days of your Bali itinerary in the heart of the island, and discover all the best things to do in Ubud.

Things to do in Ubud, Bali

The creative and cultural hub of Ubud lies in the center of the island, known for its beautiful green rice paddies and lush jungles. It’s one of the most sought-after locations, with many people visiting for the city’s incredible natural scenery and peaceful surrounding atmosphere.

Swim in natural pools under tall waterfalls, roam through the surrounding green lands, and discover the impressive Balinese culture by visiting the area’s temples. There are many things to do in Ubud, Bali. 

Tip: Ubud also makes a good location to base yourself in Bali, as it’s easy to visit other incredible places such as mountainous Munduk , Mount Batur , lush Sidemen , or the bustling Canggu .

Hotels in Ubud 😴

1. Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Rise and shine early to visit one of the most magical valleys of Bali, the Tegalalang Rice Terraces. Here, countless layers of rice fields spread across the hills, lined by the island’s luscious jungles. Visit when the sun’s barely risen, covering the fields in beautiful light.

The valley lies an easy 20-minute drive north of Ubud and is a great place to wander around for an hour or two. Walk through the lush paddies and explore the different levels, taking in the stunning views of the area as you go. Make sure to bring your camera, as you’ll surely want to snap some pictures on your route! 

Here are all your hotel options in Ubud.

Keep in mind that these are active farming lands; respect the workers and stay on the paths throughout the entire valley. On the outskirts, you’ll find the iconic jungle swings and plenty of small cafes, both with stunning views over the rice terraces.

See tickets and availability for a private tour of Ubud

Due to its popularity, it’s best to visit the terraces in the morning (before 10 AM) to avoid the bigger crowds. The entrance is easily located on the side of the road, from where you’ll walk down into the valley towards the Tegalalang rice terraces.

Read more about: visiting the Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Ubud, Bali

2. The Holy Spring Water of Pura Tirta Empul

Pura Tirta Empul is a sacred temple complex known for its holy spring water, fresh from the ground. The water here is believed to have healing powers, making it a popular place amongst locals and tourists looking to cleanse themselves in the pools.

 If you’d like to join in with this important purification ritual, dip your head under the 30 different stations, moving from left to right. The temple is dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu god of water, and lies about half an hour from Ubud. Entrance to the temple costs 50,000 IDR (3,30 USD). 

See availability for a Shamanic healing tour to Tirta Empul

Apart from the holy water pools, you can explore the other beautiful structures of the complex, from golden shrines to courtyards. The temple also organizes several ceremonies and festivals throughout the year, offering you a glimpse into the rich Balinese culture. 

Tip: Visitors are expected to dress respectfully, so nearly every temple provides sarongs to use inside the complex. Be mindful of the temple’s sacred nature and join in with its peaceful quietness.

3. Ancient Bali: Pura Gunung Kawi

Pura Gunung Kawi is an archeological site in Bali known for its ancient temple complex. About 1000 years ago, these temples and houses were carved out of rocks as people didn’t know how to construct the buildings. It’s believed to be one of the oldest and largest monuments on the island! 

The 7-meter-high shrines cut out of the rock give a unique glimpse into Balinese architecture of the past. Walk down a long flight of stairs to reach the lush river valley below to admire these ancient remnants, taking in the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding rice paddies. Pura Gunung Kawi lies about 20 minutes outside of Ubud and costs 50,000 IDR (3,30 USD) to enter.

4. Monkey Forest Ubud

One of the best things to do in Ubud is to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Ubud Monkey Forest . Located in the center of town, you’ll find a beautiful park without a fence, where loads of monkeys spend their day. Though, even if you don’t like the monkeys, the park makes a must-do in Ubud for its grand rainforest and beautiful walkways alone.

Escape the buzz of the town and delve into a natural oasis full of stunning temples, serene rivers, ancient trees, and hundreds of cheeky monkeys. This is a great place to observe the animals up close and watch as they interact with one another. Expect to spend about 2 hours here, walking around the park. The entrance fee is 50,000 IDR (3,30 USD). Alternatively, book a combo tour of Ubud’s most popular sites, including the Monkey Forest.

The Monkeys 

Since the monkeys roam freely here, it’s a wonderful opportunity to see the animals in their natural surroundings. Hundreds of long-tailed grey macaques roam around the Ubud Monkey Forest, and since there are no fences, the monkeys happily live here by choice. 

They’re not really interested in you but always remember that they’re wild animals, so make sure to stick to the park’s rules. This is a must-do on any Bali itinerary . 

Read more: The complete guide to the Ubud Monkey Forest

5. Campuhan Ridge Walk

Around sunset, go on a beautiful hike over Campuhan Ridge. This 2-kilometer trail lies close to the center of Ubud and is the perfect way to end a day full of sightseeing. While you peacefully wind down, take in the panoramic views of the surrounding jungle-covered hills of Ubud, Bali. 

The trail starts at the Campuhan Bridge, next to the Pura Gunung Lebah temple, where the two rivers meet. From there, you can follow the trail as it winds through lush scenery, rice paddies, and small villages. This is a popular activity for locals and visitors alike, and you’ll see people walking their dogs, going for a run, or taking lovely pictures. Walking the trail is a free thing to do in Ubud.

6. Visit the Waterfalls

Bali is known to have some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Indonesia , with many of them located in the center of the island. Because of this, chasing waterfalls is one of the best things to do in Ubud to experience the beauty of the island’s natural surroundings.

Wear comfortable shoes to walk down the steep (sometimes slippery) paths towards the falls, and spend a few hours swimming in the refreshing mountain streams.

Kanto Lampo 

The Kanto Lampo waterfall, about 40 minutes outside of Ubud, is a huge beautiful wall of water and a popular one to climb up on. Locals like to hang around here on the weekends, swimming in the small pool area in front of the rocks. Take your time at this beautiful spot; jump in the water, enjoy a relaxing swim, and shower under the falls. 

This is a popular waterfall in Bali, so we recommend visiting on a weekday when there’ll be fewer people. From the parking lot, it’s only a 3-minute walk down.

Read more: The best waterfalls in Bali

Tibumana Waterfall 

Only 15 minutes further from Kanto Lampo lies the secluded and powerful Tibumama waterfall. After an easy walk down, you’ll be rewarded with refreshing water to cool off in. However, be careful, as the force of the falling water is usually very strong here. The entrance to the waterfall is 10,000 IDR (0,65 USD). 

Tegenungan Waterfall

The Tegenungan waterfall is the closest waterfall to Ubud, located just a 15-minute drive away. It’s known for its 15-meter-tall stream that flows over a cliff, plummeting into a large pool below.

To get to the falls, you’ll have to walk down a steep flight of stairs. Once there, enjoy the fresh spray of the water and the lush surroundings. There are a few viewpoints around the waterfall, offering a different look at the natural scenery. The entrance to the waterfall is 15,000 IDR (1 USD). 

Good to know: Bali has a big problem with trash. Try to be mindful of your surroundings and the environment, and clean up after yourself. Learn more about sustainable travel .

Book a day tour to multiple falls in Ubud here

7. Goa Gajah, Elephant Cave

Don’t worry – no elephants or animal abuse here! This small temple, with a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist architecture, features an elephant statue carved into the rock’s face instead. 

Goa Gajah is an impressive meditation cave and an important cultural site in Bali, made entirely by hand. It’s easy to get there from Ubud, as it lies only 6 kilometers south of the city. Admire all the intricate carvings and learn more about Bali’s history while you make your way across the grounds. 

Tickets: Entrance costs 50,000 IDR (3.30 USD) per person, and you can borrow a sarong for free near the ticket counter inside.

8. Ubud Water Palace

In the center of Ubud’s town, surrounded by water and beautiful pink lotus flowers, lies the Hindu water palace, the Saraswati temple. It’s dedicated to the Hindu goddess of knowledge, arts, and learning and makes a must-do in Ubud, Bali . Explore the temple grounds, admiring the different shrines, statues, and water gardens.

 You’ll find the temple hidden behind Starbucks, with its intricate carvings and beautiful pavilions sticking out above the other buildings. If you can, revisit at night when dance performances are often held. The entrance to the temple is free.

9. Tubing or White Water Rafting

Tubing and white water rafting are two very popular things to do in Ubud. Whether you’re solo or together with a group, you’ll mingle with the rest during these adventurous activities. Going down the Ayung River is a great and exciting experience – we loved tubing with our friends! You can book this tour directly through our friend Yande below.

Float down gently in a large inflatable tube, allowing the river to guide you while you enjoy the stunning scenery. Or, navigate the river on an inflatable raft with an experienced guide, tackling the river rapids as they change class. Both tours usually take about 6 hours (8 AM – 2 PM) and cost between 445,000 IDR (30 USD) and 600,000 IDR (40 USD).

See tickets and availability for a white water rafting tour in Ubud

10. Relax at a Pool Bar

After your day of thrilling activities and a dose of natural gems, relax and unwind at one of the many pool bars in Ubud, Bali. The incredible views over the city’s lush rice paddies and surrounding forests make this a popular activity to do in town. A few of our favorite bars with a pool in Ubud were: 

• Wanna Jungle Pool
• Kelapa Muda Ubud Pool Bar
• Folk Pool & Gardens
• Jungle Fish

Sip on a refreshing drink while you soak in an infinity pool overlooking the gorgeous river valley below. Many pools have loungers, sunbeds, and umbrellas, making it an ideal spot for a break to soak up the sun.

11. Shop at the Ubud Art Market

Every day in the heart of town, you’ll find the vibrant and popular Ubud Market. Depending on the time you visit during the day, you can find different products here.

The traditional market is in full swing from 3 AM till 8 AM, where lots of veggies and meat are sold. However, at 9 AM, the market changes to the lively Art Market, where you can find everything from handbags and kitchenware to decorations and souvenirs.

It’s here where the ‘Ubud bag’ comes from, now a worldwide fashion item. As a result, every shop sells these pretty bags. Take your time as you stroll through the busy alleys, admiring all the different handmade crafts and local artworks. 

Good to know: They’re currently (2023) working on rebuilding the Ubud Market, so most vendors have temporarily moved to the Ubud Central Parking Lot in the nearby Sambahan area.

Visit the Art Market on this combi tour of Ubud

12. Ubud Rice Fields Walk

One of the lesser-known things to do in Ubud is to go on the relaxing rice field walk. This 45-minute route runs across a path between the stunning rice fields and farms outside Ubud, Bali. Though it’s right in the center of town, it’s not very well known as it lies hidden between all the other highlights of Ubud. Here’s the exact route .

Soak up Ubud’s tranquil beauty and stunning natural surroundings while you make your way across the path. Walking between the rice fields offers a chance to connect with the local culture and learn more about the Balinese agriculture traditions. 

Dinner between the rice fields 

While en route through the Ubud rice fields, stop halfway to have a delicious dinner at Sari Organik or Sweet Orange Restaurant. Both of these restaurants are in the best dinner spot in Ubud, with incredible views over the lush rice paddies. Enjoy local classics such as Nasi Goreng while you watch the green fields turn into a golden orange during sunset. 

Also read: The best things to do in Amed, Bali

13. Stay at a Bamboo House

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in the jungle-covered hills or a private villa with a pool overlooking lush rice terraces, there’s no limit to accommodation options in Ubud, Bali. For a unique experience, spend a few nights in a bamboo house in Bali tucked between the diverse landscapes of central Bali. 

More about the best bamboo houses in Bali .

From cozy budget-friendly cabins to grand works of art capable of housing big groups of friends, there’s a bamboo house for everyone. These incredible hotels are known for their open-air concepts, gorgeous details, and perfect hanging nets that look out over the stunning surroundings. Built only with natural resources, they make the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Bali’s busier towns. 

14. Hike up Mt. Batur

Hike to the top of the sacred volcano of Mount Batur to be rewarded with incredible 360-degree views over Bali. It rises high above the surrounding landscapes, making it the perfect spot to watch the sunrise. Look out onto beautiful pink and orange clouds that float far below or watch how endless valleys lie between the island’s green jungles.

The relatively easy hike requires an early start, with most tour companies picking you up around 2 AM. This leaves plenty of time to drive to the trailhead and trek up the mountain for sunrise. Depending on your fitness level, reaching the summit takes roughly two hours, making it a 4-hour round-trip journey.  

Tip: You can also visit Pinggan, a rural farming village on a mountain ridge with many viewpoints overlooking Mount Batur. Here, you’ll see some spectacular views of the mountain instead. This is a relaxed morning alternative to the two-hour hike up Mount Batur.

Guided Tour 

It’s required to hire a local guide or book a tour to get up the mountain. Although it’s generally very safe (the last eruption was over 20 years ago) and easy, a tour takes all the hassle out of the experience. Your guide will collect you from your accommodation, provide useful equipment, and tell you their expert local knowledge. Breakfast and a nice cup of hot coffee at the summit are also included!

Tip: Wear warm layers and good hiking shoes, and make sure you bring plenty of water and some snacks.

15. Join a Cooking Class

Indonesians have an incredibly delicious and unique cuisine, making it a must-try when visiting the country. Learn more about the Balinese culture and the island’s traditional cooking methods by joining a cooking class in Ubud. 

Start with a visit to the local market, where you’ll pick up all the ingredients needed for the dishes you’ll be making later on. An experienced chef will share the secrets of great Balinese food and guide you in making delicious authentic meals. This is a fantastic opportunity to try new foods. Moreover, you’ll bring home a new culinary skill set – the perfect souvenir!

See availability for a traditional cooking class in Ubud

Best Cafes and Restaurants in Ubud, Bali

From colorful ‘Bali bowls’ full of fresh fruit to tasty Nasi Goreng or Gado Gado, there are many authentic Indonesian dishes to try in Bali. Because of its popularity, you’ll find many great warungs (family restaurants) and international restaurants in Ubud. A few of our favorites are:

• Kebun bistro (Mediterranean)
• Warung Pondok Madu (great Indonesian food)
• Lazy Cats Cafe

Spend your days hopping around the island’s center, discovering cute cafes, and trying different dishes.

Where to Stay in Ubud

Though Ubud makes a great day trip destination, the surrounding rivers, rice field views, and jungle vibes also make it an amazing spot to spend a few days. There are some beautiful and affordable hotels in Ubud and the surrounding villages, as well as a great choice of hostels .

Stay in the center of Ubud if you’re looking to do some shopping and want to be close to most restaurants. Choose the village of Penestanan for more tranquility, or spend your days lounging in a beautiful bamboo villa in the lush region of Tegalalang.

Read: The best places to stay in Bali

How Many Days in Ubud?

A minimum of 3 – 4 days is plenty to fully experience what the bustling central town of Ubud has to offer. This way, you’ll have enough time to explore the beautiful temples, lush rice paddies, waterfalls, and other natural gems, as well as experience the local culture. Though many travelers also use it as a base to explore other locations on the island. 

Also read: 3-week Bali itinerary

How to Visit Ubud

Ubud lies a 1-hour drive from Bali’s International Airport and visitor favorites Canggu and Seminyak . However, the roads are busy, so it usually takes a little longer. 

Rent a car or motorcycle, book a tour, or arrange a private car or taxi to get to the lively center of Ubud. A slightly more affordable option is to book a shared van from the airport, which leaves several times a day. 

There’s also a public bus that operates between Denpasar and Ubud, meant to decrease the number of on-road vehicles. The Teman Bus runs daily from 5 AM to 7 PM, and you can book tickets through their app.

Getting Around

The town of Ubud is very walkable, with many incredible things to do in the center. Most roads are one-way because it can get quite crowded, especially in the high season with lots of people visiting. 

Ubud’s central location is also very convenient if you’re looking to explore the stunning surrounding areas. Within an hour or two, you can be swimming under waterfalls, rafting on strong river currents, or hiking up the grand Mount Batur for beautiful sunrise views.

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By Motorbike

If you’re an experienced driver, you can travel around Ubud by motorbike. Wind your way through lush rice fields and over streets lined with palms as you explore the surrounding regions. The roads in Bali are relatively good, and motorbike rental costs about 50,000 – 100,000 IDR (3 – 7 USD) per day. 

Book your scooter rental in advance

By Private Driver or Tour

Private drivers in Bali are a great option if you don’t want the hassle of organizing your own travel. Decide where you want to go and what you want to see, and your driver can make it happen! Alternatively, book a guided tour which usually includes several points and a local guide. 

How Much Does Ubud Cost?

Though it’s a popular tourist destination, Ubud can be very affordable depending on where you stay and eat. There are many well-priced accommodations in and around town, and a full plate of delicious food can cost you as little as 2 USD at a local warung. Prices may be slightly higher during the high season (June – August). 

Costs of Traveling in Ubud

Travel on a budget in Ubud, from $100 − $180 USD weekly per person, mid-range $390 − $1050 USD, and high-end from $930 − $1440 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $20 − $100 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $5 − $15 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $3 − $10 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $30 − $50 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $2 − $40 USD
• Activities: $2 − $10 USD See tickets & tours
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit Ubud, Bali 

The best time to visit Bali is between May and July and September and October when the weather is good, and the island sees less rain. However, this is also the busiest time in Bali as it’s when most people visit.

Ubud is a great destination throughout the year, except when Bali’s rainy (green) season comes (December – February). Weather-wise, Ubud is best visited between June and September when the days are warm but the nights much cooler.

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Tegalalang Rice Terrace at Ubud, Bali

8 best places to stay in bali: top areas and hotels, indonesia travel guide: the ultimate itinerary to bali, java & flores.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

How did you guys manage getting your luggage from place to place with a scooter? And did you rent a scooter in one town and drop it off in another? (Such as ubud – amed) I’m just having a hard time organizing the logistics of the 3 week Bali itinerary

Hey! Best is to rent a scooter locally and return it after a few days and take a taxi to the next spot where you rent a motorbike again.

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Plan Your Trip to Ubud: Best of Ubud Tourism

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Ubud Is Great For

Tranquil temples and holy sites.

Diving into the legacy of Balinese art

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• The Kayon Resort
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• Adiwana Bisma
• The Udaya Resorts & Spa
• Adiwana Unagi Suites
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• Kepitu Restaurant At The Kayon Resort
• AKAR by K Club Ubud
• Ely's Kitchen Ubud
• Campuhan Ridge Walk
• Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
• Ubud Traditional Art Market
• Ubud Traditional Spa
• Tegenungan Waterfall
• Ubud Tour - Best of Ubud - All Inclusive
• ATV Quad Bike Through Tunnel and Waterfall in Bali
• Tanah Lot & North Bali Tour - Scenic Journey
• Monkey Forest, Temple, Waterfall, Rice Terrace & Art Villages
• ATV Quad Bike Bali with Waterfall Gorilla Cave and Lunch

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Popular categories, 4 days in ubud: the perfect ubud itinerary for first-timers.

By: Charlotte · Last updated 25. March 2024 · In: Bali , Indonesia , Travel

Are you wondering how to spend your 4 days in Ubud? Well, look no further. After traveling in Bali for 14 years, I have put together what I consider to be the ultimate Ubud itinerary for first-timers .

This 4-day Ubud itinerary is the perfect mix of nature, culture, healthy eating and even some shopping. It includes all the best things to do in Ubud, in addition to how to get around Ubud, the best time to visit and what to expect.

Article overview

4 days in Ubud itinerary overview

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Day 1 – Early morning stroll on Campuhan Ridge Walk, stop by Juwuk Manis, shop at Ubud Art Market, visit Ubud Water Palace and the Sacred Monkey Forest.

Day 2 – Explore Tegalalang Rice Terraces and Gunug Kawi Temple in the morning, then make your own jewelry in a silver-smith class.

Day 3 – It’s all about the waterfalls. Visit 3 of Ubud’s most beautiful waterfalls, Kanto Lampo, Tibumana and Tukad Cepung. And stop by Goa Gaja on your way home.

Day 4 – Join a cycling tour on the backroads of Ubud, one of my all-time favorite experiences in Bali. (alternative cooking class if you can’t do a bike tour.)

+ Read about the 4-day retreat I did in Ubud which is the most transformational experience I’ve ever had. But first, let’s take a look at the things you should know before you visit Ubud.

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Best Time to Visit Ubud

The best time to visit Ubud is during the dry season , which typically runs from April to October . During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, with little to no rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the rice paddies.

I would normally advise you to visit Bali between February and May, however, keep in mind that Ubud is still very humid in February and March.

It is worth noting that the dry season is also the peak season, meaning that the town can get crowded and prices for accommodation and activities can be higher than at other times of the year. If you’re looking for a more peaceful experience, consider visiting during the shoulder season , October/November and February/March.

During the shoulder season, you may experience occasional rain showers, but the weather is generally mild and pleasant. Additionally, there are fewer tourists, making it easier to explore the town and its surrounding areas without the crowds.

If you’re planning to visit Ubud during the rainy season in Bali , which runs from November to March, be prepared for heavy rainfall and occasional flooding. While the rain can make the rice paddies and waterfalls more stunning, it can also make outdoor activities challenging and sometimes dangerous.

Yes, 4 days is the perfect amount of time to experience all the best things to do in and around Ubud. You will get a little taste of everything, from waterfalls and rice fields to markets and different classes where you can learn new skills.

How to get to Ubud

Ubud is located approximately 40 kilometers northeast of Bali’s international airport, Ngurah Rai, roughly a 1 hour and 45-minute drive. From Canggu , a popular surfing destination, expect to spend around 1 hour and 15 minutes on the road.

And to reach Ubud from Uluwatu on the south coast, where you find all the best beaches in Bali , takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.

While driving in Bali takes a while, Ubud is easily accessible from all parts of the island, making it an ideal base for exploring areas such as north and East Bali .

I don’t know about you but after traveling for 16+ hours I’m not in the mood to bargain with drivers. The arrivals hall at Ngurah Rai Airport can be overwhelming with lots of private drivers, taxi drivers and companies pushing their services on you.

🌟 Pro tip >> To make your arrival in Bali as smooth as possible, I recommend booking this driver in advance . They will wait for you with a sign in arrivals and they’ll know exactly where to take you. You also have the option to add a local sim card at checkout. Super convenient!

Booking this retreat is single-handedly the best decision and the best money I’ve ever spent on myself. I was a little unsure whether or not to spend money on a retreat in Ubud since I’ve been there so many times and I usually like to plan my own itineraries. But I’m so glad I did!

Spend your days doing yoga, meditating, exploring hidden gems, eating the most delicious food (even if you’re not vegan, I’m not), learning new skills and joining in on sacred Balinese rituals. Oksana tailors your retreat to your preferences and will give you experiences you didn’t even realize you were looking for.

It was exactly the reset I needed after a few hard years in life. I’m almost crying writing this, just because of how much I needed this healing experience.

If you don’t feel like planning your own Ubud itinerary, if you feel stuck or like you need to be pampered, this is the experience for you. It is so much more than a retreat, it’s truly a VIP experience. And that comes from me who usually travels on a budget and doesn’t necessarily enjoy a lot of attention.

But don’t just take my word for it, be sure to read the incredible reviews .

The retreat includes:

• Daily personalized yoga class
• Meditation and pranayama sessions
• Dessert and chocolate-making workshop
• Workshop on preparing raw vegan meals
• Visit the holy temple of Tirta Empul
• A pampering spa treatment
• Daily meals with desserts
• 3 nights of lodging

🌟 Check price and availability here >> 4-Day Personalized Wellness Retreat in Ubud

How to get around Ubud

I highly recommend you rent a scooter to get the most out of your 4 days in Ubud . It is one of my favorite places in Bali to drive by myself. I love zipping around on the backroads feeling the sun on my skin and the wind in my hair.

You can easily ask your accommodation to arrange a scooter for you, or motorbike as the locals call them. It usually costs around 75.000 IDR a day, if you rent for longer periods of time you can bargain the price down a bit. You can also book a scooter in advance online.

Just make sure your travel insurance covers you and look out for scams run by both the police and renters. You can read more about it in my articles about common scams in Bali and things not to do in Bali .

Scooter delivery

Get a scooter delivered to your hotel or homestay. That way you don’t run the risk of being told that there are no more scooters available. It doesn’t get more convenient. All of this is included in the rental:

• Helmet for maximum 2 persons
• full tank of gas (petrol) upon delivery
• 24/7 road-side assistance
• Mobile phone holder
• First-aid kit and rain poncho (for maximum 2 people)

🌟 Check price and availability here >> Scooter rental with delivery

When I’m doing day trips to different parts of the island or covering a lot of places, I often  book this driver . You can, of course, drive your scooter as well, however, for longer distances I prefer to enjoy the landscape from the comfort of an air-conditioned car.

Also, parking isn’t always easy on the island, so that way the driver takes care of parking while you can focus on enjoying beautiful Bali.

It’s the perfect option if it’s your first time in Bali and there are a lot of places on your  Bali bucket list .

When I'm doing day trips, traveling across the island and on days it's supposed to rain, I often book this driver.

This is a super affordable full-day customizable tour, which means you have the driver for 10 hours and you can go where you want.

How to spend 4 days in Ubud

4 days is the perfect amount of time to experience all the highlights Ubud has to offer.

There’s a reason why Ubud is called the green heart of Bali. It is lush, vibrantly green and rich with cultural heritage. Traditional Balinese craftsmen, with skills passed down through generations, call these parts home.

Woodcarvers, painters, silversmiths, mask makers and other artisans can be found in Ubud and the surrounding villages. The passion and love for their art and culture are what make this part of the island so special.

Central Ubud is made up of one very busy one-way road, lined with shops, restaurants and people everywhere. At the south end, you’ll find the Sacred Monkey Forest and at the north end along Jl. Raya Ubud the Royal Palace and Ubud Market.

Along this one-way road called Jl. Monkey Forest and on roads that run off it and parallel to is where you’ll find most restaurants and cafés. Ubud really is a haven for vegetarians and vegans, as meat-free options are available everywhere.

The first day of this 4-day Ubud itinerary is all about getting to know the town. I have included all the highlights and most popular attractions in central Ubud.

Campuhan Ridge Walk

A morning or afternoon stroll on the Campuhan Ridge Walk is a definite must while in Ubud. It’s free, you get a workout and some of the best photo ops on the island, all in the most amazing setting. Think lush green rolling hills with the odd palm tree and yellow butterflies flying everywhere.

The only downside is that it gets incredibly hot during the day, so I would recommend going as early as you can manage, maybe even before breakfast. It’s the perfect way to start the day.

You’ll find the starting point of the walk to the left of the entrance to Warwick Ibah Luxury Villas and Spa, just follow the path over the bridge and past the temple.

Subak Juwuk Manis

Can you believe this place exists just off the busy Jalan Raya Ubud? Ok, it might look a little grey and gloomy in these photos, but we visited in the midst of the rainy season in the afternoon.

Blink once and you will miss the old sign saying “Subak Juwuk Manis (Rice Field) Ubud” pointing down an alley. Follow the path until you think you shouldn’t go any further because it looks a bit sketchy, then keep going past an abandoned house and you will soon see green everywhere.

We didn’t encounter many other tourists on this walk, just some ducks and a couple of workers. A pro tip is to pop in on your way back to town from the Campuhan Ridge Walk.

Ubud art market

Head back to your hotel or homestay for breakfast, or stop by a cute cafe like Zest , then make your way to the market.

Ubud Art Market is one of the most popular attractions in Ubud, known for its wide variety of traditional Balinese handicrafts and souvenirs such as handmade batik fabrics, wood carvings, jewelry, paintings and much more.

The vendors at the market are friendly and welcoming, and you can negotiate prices to get a good deal. The earlier you get there, the better the deal. As the first sale bless the day ahead.

Opening hours: Every day from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (some stalls open even earlier and close when there are no more people around)

Entrance fee: It is free to visit Ubud Art Market.

Saraswati temple

When you’re all shopped out, continue to Ubud Water Palace, also known as Saraswati Temple, a beautiful Hindu temple located in the heart of Ubud.

The temple is dedicated to the goddess of knowledge, arts, and wisdom, Saraswati. The temple is known for its stunning architecture, with intricate carvings and beautiful lotus ponds that surround the main temple building. 

Opening hours: 7:00 am – 5:00 pm

Entrance fee: It is free to visit Saraswati Temple in Ubud

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Before dinner, spend the afternoon at the Sacred Monkey Forest located south in central Ubud.

As I’ve had my share of monkey encounters at the monkey temple down in Uluwatu, I didn’t expect much when we headed to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud. But wow was I in for a surprise, this place is so much more than just the monkeys.

It really felt like we stepped into an enchanted forest. With 115 different species of trees and three temples dating back to the 14th century, the complex is huge, so be sure to explore every nook and cranny to get the most out of your visit.

Don’t bring anything into the forest other than your camera, as the monkeys will steal it. I’ve seen the sneaky little creatures open backpacks, take sandals off the feet of grown men and keys out of people’s pockets. As the number of people visiting the forest continues to increase, about 10,000 people a month as of now, so does the aggressive behavior of the monkeys.

If you bring any food or buy the bananas being sold in the forest they will attack you until they’re sure they’ve got everything. Don’t try to hide it under your clothes, trust me they’ll find it. Sometimes you’ll be fine and get some great photos but sometimes people get bitten. I’ve seen a few bloody hands and legs around the island, so remember to be careful and use common sense.

Opening hours: The Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud is open daily from 9:00 am – 6:00 pm. The ticket office closes at 5:00 pm.

Entrance fee: 80.000 IDR for adults and 60.000 IDR for children.

Tegalalang Rice Terraces

If you’ve seen any photos from Ubud, chances are it’s of the Tegalalang Rice Terraces. Along with the Sacred Monkey Forest, Tegalalang is the most iconic of all the attractions in the area, maybe also in Bali.

That means everyone wants to get a glimpse of it, so it gets extremely crowded. I would recommend visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon to escape both the crowds and the midday heat.

From the top of the road, you get stunning panoramic views of the terraces, which is really an irrigation system called Subak dating back to the 8th century. Be sure to not only settle for the view, venture deep into the jungle to take in and appreciate this ancient form of engineering. And don’t miss the stunning Tegalalang sunrise photo spot you see below.

The drive up from central Ubud takes about 20 minutes and is mostly straightforward, so even if you’re not the most experienced on a motorbike you should be fine.

Opening hours: 6:00 am – 6:00 pm (it says online that the opening hours are from 8:0 am, however, when we got there at 6:00 there were several open entrances).

Entrance fee: 15.000 IDR per person in addition to several checkpoints throughout the rice terraces.

Gunung Kawi temple

Continue your morning at Pura Gunung Kawi , an ancient temple set in a beautiful valley surrounded by lush green rice paddies in the small town of Tampaksiring, northeast of central Ubud. It is one of Bali’s most important historical sites and is believed to have been built in the 11th century.

The temple complex consists of 10 rock-cut shrines, which are carved into the side of a steep cliff face. Each shrine is around 7 meters tall and is beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and reliefs. It is dedicated to King Anak Wungsu and his wives, and it is believed that the shrines were built to honor them after their death.

I suggest getting there when they open so you can take in the beauty in peace and quiet as the sun rises. When you’re there all alone it truly feels like a magical place, I could’ve wandered around the stunning grounds for hours and hours.

Opening hours: Every day from 7:00 am – 6:00 pm.

Entrance fee: 50.000 IDR per person.

Head back into town and enjoy lunch at Yellow Flower Cafe , a hidden gem in Penestanan.

Ubud Silver-smith Class

One of the more unusual things to do in Bali , or at least something you probably didn’t think about doing, is joining a silver-smith class. I love wearing the wave ring that I made with my mum in our class.

Ubud is known for its rich artistic heritage, and silversmithing is a centuries-old craft that has been passed down from generation to generation.

In this popular silversmith class , you’ll learn the basics of metalworking, including how to shape and mold silver into beautiful pieces of jewelry. You’ll also get to work with local artisans who will teach you the intricacies of Balinese design and techniques.

Not only will you come away with a new skill and a unique piece of jewelry, but you’ll also have a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating these beautiful pieces. So much fun!

You can choose between a class in the afternoon or in the evening. You also have the option to add transport and other activities such as a cooking class or a village tour.

🌟 My top pick for unusual things to do in Ubud >>  3-hour Ubud silversmith class

Day 3 of this Ubud itinerary is all about incredible waterfalls. Ubud is located within an hour of 80% of the best waterfalls in Bali, so dedicating a day to chasing waterfalls is a no-brainer.

As mentioned earlier, you can rent a scooter, hire a private driver for the day, or alternatively join the popular guided tour below.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Ubud Waterfalls private tour

Don’t want to do any planning? This affordable private guided tour includes 4 of the best waterfalls around Ubud. Tucak Cepung, Tibumana, Kanto Lampo and Tegenungan Waterfall.

>> Check price and availability here <<

If you end up going by yourself, I would say that Tegenungan Waterfall isn’t really worth it. I mean, it is the largest waterfall close to Ubud, but it is also very commercialized with tons and tons of visitors every day. So I would prioritize the lesser-known ones.

Be sure to check out my complete guide to all the best waterfalls in Ubud to pick out your favorites. In the map below you can see the distances to all the waterfalls from central Ubud.

If you have some time in the afternoon, stop by Goa Gajah or the Elephant Cave if you will, located an easy 10-minute drive southeast of Ubud. and just a few minutes from Kanto Lampo and Goa Rang Reng Waterfalls.

Some say it was built during the 11th century as a place for meditation and some say it dates back to as early as the 9th century. You enter the t-shaped cave through the mouth of a demon and inside you’ll find different stone carvings and shrines.

Outside in the courtyard, there’s a holy pond with six Hindu angels, where worshippers will rinse off and purify themselves. The temple isn’t among the grandest on the island, but it’s still a fun place to visit and it’s easily reached from central Ubud.

Goa Gajah opening hours: Every day from 8:00 am – 4:30 pm.

Entrance fee: 50.000 IDR for adults and 25.000 IDr for children.

Day four of this Ubud itinerary is all about exploring the backroads and experiencing daily life in Bali. The people and places you won’t see on your own.

Jegeg Bali Cycling Tour

It was hard to decide on which tour operator to choose for our cycling tour in Ubud. After hours on Tripadvisor going through photos and reviews, we landed on the family-owned business Jegeg Bali Cycling . Their small groups (we were only four people) and the price of 45 dollars were the deciding factors.

We got picked up at our hotel in the morning and then headed to have breakfast overlooking the spectacular volcanic caldera of Mt. Batur with its crater lake. After that, we went to a coffee plantation and then started the cycling part of the day.

It was mostly downhill, so you’ll be able to do it even if you’re not in the greatest shape. We felt safe throughout the whole tour as Putu’s uncle would drive ahead and stop traffic for us if necessary.

The best part of the whole day was getting to come inside their family compound to enjoy a traditional Balinese meal. I thought I already was quite knowledgeable about Balinese culture, but we learned so much from our guide Putu who spoke very good English and was happy to explain everything we wanted to know.

At the end, we received a gift, a beautiful shirt, made in the neighboring village. Putu explained that since they earned a lot of money from us they wanted to pay it forward and then give something back. Gotta love the Balinese people. One of my best days in Bali so far.

If you prefer to do a cycling tour on an electric bike instead, I recommend this popular 3-hour tour .

Alternative: Cooking class

If you don’t feel like cycling or are even more interested in learning how to cook delicious Balinese food, I highly recommend this cooking class .

Southeast Asian food, Indonesian in particular, is at the top of my list when I think of delicious food. Mie Goreng , chicken sate, Lumpia and Tempe, it makes my mouth water just thinking about it. So what can be better than a cooking class where you can learn to make all this yumminess at home?

You will prepare 3 starters, 4 main courses and 1 authentic dessert. The cooking class also includes a transfer from your hotel, a visit to the local market and a rice plantation. This is one of the activities you can do during midday when it’s too hot to do anything else.

Where to stay in Ubud

Where you’d want to stay while in Ubud depends on how much time you have to spend in the area. If you only have a couple of days, I would stay in a homestay on one of the smaller roads off of Monkey Forest Road. That way you can walk to a lot of attractions and restaurants while getting a taste of real Balinese life from the family you’re staying with.

In the photo below you can see us having breakfast on the balcony of our homestay, Jawi House & Painter, which we found on Airbnb. We had a great time there much thanks to our host Putu. She arranged drivers, motorbikes, sarongs for the temples and even bought us a traditional Balinese meal on our last day.

If you have some more time I would suggest staying in a villa up in Penestanan, which is a little village about a 20-minute walk out of Ubud town. Penestanan is known as a quiet artist community and is popular with expats and digital nomads. It’s the perfect place from which to explore all the beauty the area has to offer.

If you’re looking for budget hotels, check out Agoda . I almost exclusively book hotels through their site whenever I’m in Southeast Asia, as some of the cheapest places are only listed on there.

One of my favorite budget hotels in Penestanan is  Gerebig Bungalows . The gardens and pool area are gorgeously green, with pathways leading through a rice field. Here you’ll experience the true Ubud feeling of peace and serenity. For about $30 you get a double room with garden view, free breakfast and wifi. Now that’s what I call a great deal!

On the other side of town, the incredibly stunning  Green Bird Villas  are definitely worth checking out! A superior double will only set you back about $50 and that includes free breakfast, wifi, TV, AC ++ If you add another $20 you’ll get the deluxe room with a large bathroom and view of the awesome pool.

During our most recent trip to Bali, we booked four nights at the beautiful Green House . We had been to central Ubud many times before, so staying in the calm rice fields halfway between Tegalalang and the center of town, was such a nice break from the normal Bali craziness.

And did I mention there is a swing in the garden overlooking a lush green rice terrace!? It doesn’t get much better really. So instead of queuing up and paying for the touristy swing in Tegalalang, book a stay with Green House and take as many photos on the swing as you’d like at no extra charge.

Frequently Asked Questions

I recommend spending at least two days in Ubud, ideally four if possible. In four days you will get to fully experience its culture, nature and spirituality. However, if you have even more time, you can easily spend a week or more in Ubud without getting bored.

Yes, there are so many amazing things to do and experience in Ubud. You can visit temples, rice terraces, waterfalls and museums. You can also do yoga, meditation, cooking classes and spa treatments. Ubud is also known for its art galleries, handicraft markets and organic cafes.

Yes, if you work remotely or for yourself, there’s no better place to be than Bali. And Ubud has long been the co-working capital on the island with creatives from all over flocking to spaces like Hubud and Outpost. These days Canggu’s coworking spaces are the only ones that can compete with Ubud.

With rates starting at $12 a day for a working space with high-speed wifi, it should be doable for most.

Some of the must-see temples in Ubud are the Ubud Palace, Saraswati Temple, Goa Gajah, Gunung Kawi and Tirta Empul. Each temple has its own unique architecture, history and significance.

It depends on what you are looking for. Ubud is more cultural, spiritual and surrounded by nature, while Canggu is a laid-back surf town with beaches, cool cafés and a vibrant nightlife.

If you want to relax, rejuvenate and connect with nature, Ubud is a better choice. If you want to surf, party and socialize, Canggu is a better choice.

But hopefully, you’ll have time to explore both. You can read more about how I recommend you spend your first trip to the island in my ultimate two-week Bali itinerary .

My two favorite day trips to take from Ubud are:

North Bali – Sekumpul Waterfall , Banyumala Waterfall and Ulun Danu Beratan Temple and Jatiluwih Rice Terraces .

East Bali – Pura Lempuyang , Taman Ujung Water Palace , Bukit Cinta Mt. Agung Viewpoint and Sidemen Village.

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About Charlotte

Charlotte is the passionate traveler and online business coach behind Sunshine Seeker. She started working as a content creator on Instagram in 2014, before social media was even a thing, and as a travel blogger in 2015. Over the past 14 years she has explored 45+ countries and lived in Oslo, Kraków, Bali and Lombok. Every month she helps more than 50,000 people plan their adventures and learn how to create more freedom by working online.

You’ll Also Love

11. May 2016 at 19:02

Omg omg omg! I’ve just discovered your blog and I could cry with how perfect it is! It’s just stunning – your photos are beautiful, the content is amazing! I think you’ve just become my favourite blogger within 10 minutes haha you deserve so much more recognition!

12. May 2016 at 12:32

Thank you so much for the kind words Sasha! It really means a lot! I’ll check yours out now 😉

17. May 2016 at 03:11

I saw the rice terrace pictures all over Instagram, but I had no idea where they were taken (apart from in Bali). Nice to know it is the Tegalalang Rice Terraces. Love your photography so much by the way. 🙂

17. May 2016 at 20:25

Thanks Anne, that means a lot 🙂

14. June 2016 at 03:20

This couldn’t have come at a better time for me, as I fly to Ubud tomorrow! And your blog is just a perfect start for me. Love your pictures too, all very inspiring. Look forward to reading more on your site and following your journey.

14. June 2016 at 09:26

Thank you for your comment Sophie, I’m so happy to hear that! Hope you’ll have a great time in Ubud. Your page looks great too, I’m checking it out now. Feel free to ask if you have any questions 😉

7. July 2016 at 11:19

Hi Charlotte, Great post! I was wondering whether you give me some details regarding the scooter/motorbike rental such as whether to book in advance (and where) or to find smth directly upon arrival. Or maybe you can mention the company/contact of the place you found yours. Help is appreciated. Thanks. Regards from Berlin

7. July 2016 at 20:04

Hi Andreea! Thanks for your comment! I always rent a motorbike from my accommodation, that’s just the easiest. Just ask for one when you arrive. Almost all hotels and even homestays have motorbikes for rent. Other that that you’ll find a rental place on every corner, no huge rental companies. Everyone in Bali knows someone who rents out motorbikes 😉 Hope you’ll have a great trip!

1. October 2016 at 11:15

I love everything about this. I’m going to Bali beginning of November and I have most of this on my list and I can’t wait to experience it all! What did you wear throughout your trip? I’m concerned about the bugs and am thinking yoga pants or something but I don’t want to be hot all the time. Any suggestions?

1. October 2016 at 23:08

How fun! You’re gonna to have such a great time! During the day I always wear a little sundress, because it’s just too hot and humid for anything else. In the evening I usually wear some kind of thin/flowy pants or a long dress. They have a lot of cheap pants and dresses in the souvenir stalls all over the island. So don’t worry if you can’t find anything before you go 😉 Hope this helps, have a great time!

9. October 2016 at 12:45

Hi there! Amazing post, thanks for all the tips! Curious about transport options – we are too nervous to ride a scooter; did you see many taxis available? In other parts of bali, the blue taxis are everywhere…curious if they have a presence in Ubud. Thanks!

10. October 2016 at 18:03

Thanks Diana 🙂 I haven’t got any experience with taxis in Ubud. We used private drivers and Uber when not driving ourselves. But there were always people on the street asking if we needed a driver, so transportation is not hard to find. Quite cheap as well, as long as you remember to bargain!

11. November 2016 at 16:59

I loved Ubud. The ridge walk is fun, the dance show is amazing and the riceterrace and waterfall are beautiful. What an incredible city 🙂 I did not go to the Gunung Kawi, maybe next time LOL 🙂 x

12. November 2016 at 23:41

I know, Ubud is amazing! Yes you should definitely go to Gunung Kawi next time 😉

9. April 2017 at 09:46

love your post. thank you

9. April 2017 at 21:45

Thanks Joana 🙂

31. May 2017 at 15:35

Thank you for your blog! I travel to ubud tomorrow & I feel confident with your informative experience!

31. May 2017 at 22:11

Happy I could help! Thank you for stopping by Aislinh 🙂

19. September 2017 at 13:54

I loveee Ubud! Been living in Bali and never bored visiting this place, looking forward to see more of Ubud. Great shots !!

19. September 2017 at 21:12

Thanks for the lovely comment Aileen 🙂

13. July 2018 at 12:17

Lovely post! Those cooking classes look amazing. I wish I would have found your post a bit earlier because we’re atm in Bali but have booked a hotel that’s located in Jimbaran. However, we’re planning to do a one-day-visit to Ubud so I’m sure you’re tips will be helpful then. 🙂 Ps. Pinned this in Pinterest to make sure I won’t loose it!

14. July 2018 at 18:53

Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Nora! You should definitely go on a day trip to Ubud. But the west coast of the Bukit Peninsula is my favorite part of Bali, and you can easily explore the area from Jimbaran 😉

14. August 2018 at 06:13

I am SO happy that I discovered your blog!!!! My boyfriend and I visited Ubud for just one day and I can’t wait to go back and stay longer. We plan on going back in April ! Bali really is a magical place :))) I’m hoping after a year of blogging I can retire there hahaha!!

14. August 2018 at 14:12

Thank you for such a lovely comment, Laura! It’s great that you’re going back, Ubud is amazing. Early Bali retirement sounds like a plan ?

18. August 2018 at 11:58

Just a tip, if you are booking on-line without seeing a place…..Ubud, because of it’s lush green and rainy weather, creates a lot of mold and mildew.

So if you have asthma or other breathing difficulties….make sure to ask for a room that is mold free.

24. April 2019 at 16:32

So funny, I booked the same exact room with Putu! Great, post, looking forward to visiting next week 🙂

26. April 2019 at 13:35

Cool 😀 I’m sure you’re gonna love it! Putu is the best

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13 Things to Do in Ubud in Bali (Plus Tips for Avoiding the Crowds)

Ubud is one of the cornerstone tourist destinations in Bali, and often touted as the cultural capital of the island. Here is my Ubud travel guide to help you plan your perfect Bali trip.

Ubud is famous for its emerald cascading rice terraces in nearby Tegallalang, thousands upon thousands of gilded Hindu shrines, powerful waterfalls and art museums.

It is one of those destinations that has become almost synonymous with Bali as a whole, and it is therefore unsurprising that its streets are saturated with tourists seeking out a little piece of that Ubud magic – you’ll be hard-pressed to find a Bali itinerary that doesn’t include Ubud as one of the stops.

Though Ubud itself is not huge, the main hub is bustling with swarms of pedestrians popping in and out of cafes, souvenir shops, yoga studios, boutique labels and restaurants.

While we certainly knew of Ubud’s reputation as a soulful and popular place to visit in Bali, we were somewhat caught off guard by exactly how crowded it was – especially after our contrasting time in the peaceful mountains of Munduk . I’m told that the small town was once far sleepier, before it became the sleek and sophisticated tourism epicenter it has developed into.

This is not necessarily a negative – especially when Ubud is in a destination where tourism brings huge income and job opportunities for the community. It simply demanded a change in mindset – I booked a boutique hotel in the heart of Ubud and had ( naively ) envisioned a slow-moving, jungle-framed village filled with yoga retreats. And while that world certainly still exists within Ubud, you’ll need to venture away from the busy nucleus from time-to-time to experience that side of the cultural capital.

The good news is: it’s not difficult to steer clear of the crowds if you know where to go. Planning a trip and want to know what to do in Ubud? Read on for the top things to do in Ubud and how to make the most of your time there.

You may also enjoy: Planning a trip to Bali and not sure where to start? Here is my easy 2 week Bali itinerary for first time visitors

Where is Ubud in Bali?

Ubud is located in central Bali, about an hour and a half’s drive away from Ngurah Rai International Airport near Denpasar. It is directly north of Sanur and south of Munduk and Bedugul .

Wondering how to get to Ubud? First you’ll need to travel to the island of Bali by flying into Ngurah Rai International Airport near Denpasar. An airport transfer from the airport to Ubud costs approximately 300-350,000 IDR (US$25 or so) and takes 1-1.5 hours from door-to-door depending on where in Ubud you are headed and what time you are driving. The streets of Ubud are narrow with lots of cars when entering or exiting central Ubud, so be prepared to hit bottleneck traffic.

I recommend getting in touch with Sudewa/Ani (Whatsapp at +62 819 9845 3366 ) or Gede (Whatsapp at +62 812 3689 2841 ) for any long-distance transfers in Bali. We found that their rates were fair, vehicles are clean and they can also provide a forward-facing car seat if you are traveling to Bali with kids or babies.

Travel tips for visiting  Ubud in Bali

First time to Ubud or Bali? Here’s what you need to know before you go.

✈️ The main airport in Bali is Ngurah Rai International Airport.  Many airlines fly direct to Bali, and a 30-day tourist visa-on-arrival is available for passport holders from  more than 80 countries .

The Bali visa fee is US$35 or 500,000 IDR, and can be paid by Visa (not American Express). Children and babies are charged the same fee. As of November 2022, you can also apply for an electronic visa ahead of your trip here . You may be eligible for the visa exemption arrangement if you hold an ASEAN member country passport including those from Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Save yourself some time by completing the electronic customs declaration ahead of your Bali trip  here . As of February 14th 2024 you will also be required to pay a 150,000 IDR (approximately US$10) “tourism levy” to be used towards the conservation of Bali’s nature and support sustainable tourism – this fee is in addition to the visa-on-arrival fee. You should arrange to pay this fee online before your trip, though certain exemptions apply (diplomatic visa, Golden visa and student visa etc.) and must be applied for 1 month in advance. Read more here .

💱 The currency is the Indonesian rupiah and the exchange rate is approximately US$1/1 Euro: 15,000 IDR or AUD$1: 10,000 IDR.  There are ATMs in the airport where you can withdraw a small sum to get you started, and then you can visit brick-and-mortar money exchange places once you are in Ubud. Legitimate currency exchange shops in Bali advertise the rates clearly and do not charge a commission – we had a great experience with this money exchange shop on the main street through Ubud. The majority of hotels, tourist restaurants and supermarkets accept credit card payments, though you will still need cash to pay drivers and for tips.

You pretty much never have to pay full price for admissions tickets in Bali as most tour operators, car charters, spas and major attractions are listed on Klook. Before you book anything for your Ubud itinerary click here and search for places you want to go, and book online for discounted entry  or head on over here to  read more about how to use Klook  to book travel experiences.

📱 Buy a local Indonesian SIM card . The easiest way to do that is via Klook – you can get a 35 GB (US$12) or 51 GB (US$13) data-only SIM card and pick it up from the airport on arrival or have it delivered to your hotel. You will need to provide certain information including your passport copy.  Buy your local Bali SIM card here . Everyone in Bali including hotels, taxi drivers, spas and equipment rental companies use Whatsapp to communicate, so make sure you have stable internet access throughout your Bali trip.

🏖️ The best time to visit Bali  is typically considered to be during the summer months between July to early September, which means this is the peak travel season in Bali and the island receives the highest volume of tourists during these months – many hotels are fully booked and the atmosphere is buzzing. This is the dry season and Bali typically receives lower rainfall during these months. The rainy season in Bali usually runs during the winter months from December to February. Want to avoid the crowds in Ubud? Consider visiting in the shoulder months in May, June and September.

That being said, there is no “bad” time to visit Bali. One thing to note for first time visitors to Bali is that  Nyepi , New Year’s day in the Balinese calendar, falls in March (the date changes each year) and during this day the island observes complete silence. Shops and businesses close for the day, and everybody (including tourists) is expected to stay indoors as part of the ritual. The airport is no exception – there are no arrivals and departures on the day of Nyepi and some hotels may not facilitate check-ins and outs during this day.

Another major holiday to take note of is Galungan and Kuningan, a Hindu celebration which takes place every 210 days. The two major events are 10 days apart, and many Balinese Hindus will spend the festival visiting family temples – many government offices will be closed on Galungan and Kuningan, and some major religious landmarks (like Pura Lempuyang in East Bali ) may close for ceremonies or have different opening and closing times. It is a beautiful time to be in Bali, when all the streets are lined with towering bamboo penjors.

👚 What to wear in Bali:  The majority of the population on the island are Hindu, and the dress code in Bali is typically fairly relaxed. Beach and vacation wear is the norm, so go ahead and pack your dresses, shorts and crop tops. There is, however, an exception – if you plan on visiting any temple or shrine (of which there are many in Ubud) you will need to cover your legs with a sarong and make sure that your shoulders are also covered. You will also notice that most women in Bali dress conservatively, even donning gorgeous traditional attire on certain days during the week and to partake in religious ceremonies – to be respectful, I would recommend that you dress on the conservative side when out and about around town outside of your resort or hotel.

Planning on heading inland to chase waterfalls in the mountains of Bali before or after visiting Ubud? The temperature can fluctuate significantly over the course of just a couple of hours, so make sure you bring some warm clothes.

🗓️ How many days to spend in Ubud:  For a first time visitor I would recommend spending no fewer than 3 days, maybe 4 days in Ubud if you plan on exploring the surrounding areas and waterfalls. It may appear small, but there’s a lot of ground to cover and plenty of things to do in Ubud that will keep you on the move.

🚁 Flying a drone in Ubud:  You can fly a small drone in Bali for recreational, non-commercial purposes without a license as long as you follow  a few important guidelines . Most temples and places of worship forbid the use of drones, and many hotels and day clubs in Ubud will have their own policies for drone usage on their property, so it’s best to check ahead before you launch your UAV.

Safety in Bali

The vast majority of visits to Bali are trouble free, and tourism is a major source of revenue for the island. Violent crime against foreigners occurs infrequently, but petty crime including bag and phone snatching is not uncommon. You should keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas. There are a number of  common scams in Bali : if an offer seems “too good to be true”, it could be part of a scam.

Most well-known waterfalls in Ubud have ticket booths with posted prices – if you are asked to pay extra fees it may not be a legitimate request.

I recommend taking certain precautions such as pre-booking airport transportation with a reliable car service and driver, watching your drink when you are out and about, and letting friends and family know of your travel plans and hotel contact information. Read more about safety in Indonesia and Bali by clicking  here  and  here . Here is more information about  local laws and customs in Indonesia .

How to get around Ubud  in Bali

The best way to get around Ubud is either by local taxi, scooter rental or on foot. While local ride-sharing companies like Grab, GoJek and Bluebird used to be visibly unwelcome in Ubud, as of August 2022 we were able to use Grab in most areas of Ubud with no issues – usually it takes no more than 10 minutes for the driver to show up.

Here is another one of my top Bali travel tips: when you find a driver you like, get their contact information and add them to Whatsapp so that you can get in touch with them directly. In addition to Gede who I mentioned above for transport between areas in Bali, we used Nyoman for short trips within Ubud – he was always fairly punctual and friendly, and can give you a good rate if you book him for a few hours at a time. You can reach Nyoman via Whatsapp at  +62 813 3855 9491. We paid approximately 250,000 IDR for 3 hours of private car service within Ubud (mostly within the city center), just make sure that you agree on a price with your driver ahead of time.

Another popular option for getting around Ubud is by scooter, but you may want to consider this option carefully if you are not confident driving a scooter – the roads in Ubud are narrow and there are often pedestrians trying to narrowly avoid traffic on the non-existent sidewalks. Even the smallest of loose rocks can cause a serious accident (like it did for us towards the end of our trip in Uluwatu)!

My husband has the proper international motorcycle certifications and license, and we paid approximately 70,000 IDR/day for scooter rental in Ubud (the daily rate varies across Bali). We had a good experience with Aloha Scooter Rental in Ubud and paid an additional 20,000 IDR for delivery of the scooter to our hotel. Ensure that your scooter rental comes with helmets, that you note any existing damage/scratches and that you have the proper international driving license in case you are stopped by the local authorities.

It is also possible to hire a car in Bali but you should know that parking can be an issue and that not all hotels will offer parking; it is also not recommended unless you have experience navigating very narrow streets filled with scooters zooming by. Your international driving permit may require further endorsement by the local authorities, and you should double check that your travel insurance covers any motor vehicle accidents overseas. Have all your ducks in a row? Great! Looking for the best prices for rental car companies around the world?   Click here to book your rental car ahead of your Bali trip.   Bookings can be cancelled or amended if your plans change!

Where to stay in Ubud in Bali

Looking for the best accommodation in Ubud? For first-time visitors traveling to Ubud I recommend staying near the centre of town so that you can easily walk to the various Ubud tourist attractions and restaurants.

Origin Ubud was our home for 4 days in Ubud, and boy did we feel right at home in this cozy boutique hotel. Origin Ubud was just a 10-minute walk from the main stretch where the majority of restaurants and bars are located. We absolutely loved the daily breakfast by the pool – such a treat! You can order breakfast a day in advance and choose a delivery time.

The villas are extremely spacious, but some areas could do with touch-ups and a little TLC; nevertheless, a great boutique hotel that has a very reasonable price tag in Ubud. If you are sensitive to noise ask for one of the lower villas situated furthest away from the main road as it is located opposite an incredible active temple that regularly hosts religious ceremonies for the local community. Don’t miss the hypnotizing Kecak fire dance show – staff can help arrange tickets!

We appreciated the warm hospitality and would not hesitate to recommend based on the property’s staff, location and value for money – this is one of the best Ubud hotels with a private pool in the heart of town. It is perfect for couples and independent travelers – click here to check availability and rates at Origin Ubud or head over here to see more hotel options in Ubud .

If you are traveling with young children who are very mobile you should be aware that there is not a lot of common area for them to run around in, nor is there a kids club or on-site restaurant/other facilities. There is an excellent laundry just up the street ( Seaweed Laundry ) which we used during our stay in Ubud.

Booking tip: Sort by “Distance from city centre” if you want to be within walking distance of the majority of restaurants and shops in Ubud. Don’t underestimate the amount of time it takes to travel into the city centre – it can take a while traveling 2-3 KM in Ubud as there is lots of traffic and many one-way streets.

You might also want to check out Airbnb if you are traveling with friends to Ubud as there are plenty of Ubud villa options available outside of the city centre (however you’ll want to double check if meals are served on-site or whether you will head out for meals). We mostly used Booking.com for this Bali 2 week itinerary as the cancellation policies tend to be a little more flexible.

Interested in checking out other options for accommodation in Ubud? Here are some other highly-rated hotels in the area – we also personally considered staying at these Ubud boutique hotels: 11 on Kajeng : Located in the heart of Ubud, 11 on Kajeng is a 10-minute walk from the Ubud Palace and Saraswati Temple. The décor is a curious blend of modern meets traditional Balinese, and reviewers love the pool and spacious rooms. Despite its proximity to the Ubud city centre, most people say it is quiet and peaceful. This may not suit you if you or a travel companion has any mobility issues as you will need to walk up lots of stairs to get to the rooms. Click here to check rates and availability at 11 on Kajeng. The Sankara Resort : If you aren’t fussed about staying near Ubud town, then consider staying at this boutique hotel 15 minutes by car from the city centre. This beautiful property has a fantastic on-site spa, and is away from the hustle and bustle. There is also a shuttle service into town if you want to visit the main Ubud attractions. Click here to check rates and availability at The Sankara Resort. Sapodilla Ubud : Sapodilla is one of the top-rated boutique hotels in Ubud. It features a large outdoor pool, a free shuttle service and spacious, brightly-lit rooms. Reviewers love the attentive team, excellent food and say that it feels like an oasis away from the crowds. Click here to check rates and availability at Sapodilla Ubud.

The best things to do in Ubud in Bali

You could easily spend up to a week in Ubud as a first-time visitor, there is an infinite number of things to see and places to visit in Ubud. From the lush jungle waterfalls to sophisticated day clubs overlooking jewel-toned rice terraces, here are some of the best things to do during your Ubud trip.

1. Watch a Kecak fire and trance dance

A Kecak dance is a form of traditional Balinese Hindu dance and drama that typically tells the story of Rama’s triumph over Rahwana and his demons. Though the most famous Kecak dance in Bali takes place in Uluwatu overlooking the ocean, there are a number of temples in Ubud that also put on this captivating performance.

As night falls, dozens of Kecak dancers chant in unison, seemingly never taking a breath as performers in elaborate costumes act out King Rama being led away from Sita by a golden deer, who is actually Rahwana’s evil servant in disguise.

Eventually, the lovely Sita is kidnapped by Rahwana and taken away to his kingdom. Rama sends his trusted general, the Hindu monkey god Hanuman, to hand over Rama’s ring to Sita and destroy the park where Sita is being held hostage.

Finally, a battle ensues and Rama kills the evil Rahwana – a testament that good always prevails over evil.

The hour-long performance takes place on Sunday and Tuesday evenings at 7 PM at Pura Dalem Gede (across the street from Origin Ubud ). Tickets are available at 100,000 IDR per person, and seats are limited – I highly recommend getting there early to secure a good seat.

The Kecak dance was one of the most fascinating traditional Balinese performances that I had the privilege of watching during our Ubud trip. Is it touristy? Yes. Is it amazing? Also yes. It is also far less crowded than the Uluwatu Kecak fire dance so if your heart is set on watching this amazing Balinese cultural performance make sure you set aside an evening in Ubud!

2. Visit the Tegallalang rice terraces

Spending an afternoon at the Tegallalang rice fields is one of the top things to do in Ubud. Visitors from all across the island head to the lush UNESCO-listed rice terraces for the amazing views and to hike down the elevation and walk among the emerald fields.

The Tegallalang rice terraces follows the traditional “ Subak ” irrigation system, and is reachable by car or scooter from Ubud – the drive will take you approximately 20 minutes or so.

The main street of Tegallalang is lined with plenty of tourist cafes, restaurants and photo parks – this is where you’ll find a plethora of “Bali swings”.

Prefer to sit back and take it all in over a glass of wine or some lunch? Head straight to Tis Cafe , a gorgeous bamboo-built restaurant complete with an infinity pool and rope swing. The service was impeccable and the atmosphere was incredibly laid back – unlike some of the other more Insta-famous Tegallalang day clubs in the area.

Did you know that there are also rice paddies in Canggu near the beach? Read my Canggu travel guide here to get the lowdown on where to stay in Canggu and the best things to do.

Looking for boutique Ubud accommodation in the heart of downtown? Check out the individual pool villas at Origin Ubud . We loved the privacy of the 1-bedroom villa and enjoyed a delicious breakfast served poolside each morning. Click here to check availability and rates at Origin Ubud or head over here to see more hotel options in Ubud . Want to explore more Ubud hotel options? We also considered staying at 11 on Kajeng (a small boutique hotel within walking distance of the Ubud Palace and Saraswati Temple), The Sankara Resort (beautiful hotel with an excellent on-site spa, provides a shuttle service into town) and Sapodilla Ubud (one of the top-rated boutique hotels in Ubud).

3. Observe the purification rituals at Pura Tirta Empul

You can combine a trip to the Tegallalang rice terraces with your visit to Pura Tirta Empul water temple , both of which are located north of Ubud town.

The stunning Tirta Empul is one of the most sacred water temples in Bali and one of the top places to visit near Ubud. Dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, Tirta Empul features holy springs with water that is believed to purify devotees in a ritual known as “melukat”.

Each day, rain or shine, thousands of Balinese and Hindu worshippers queue in pools to dip their heads in spring water that flows out of nearly 30 spouts. Once they have immersed their heads and hair in the water from one spout and prayed, they move onto the next until they have cleansed under each spot (with the exception of two which are only to be used for the dead).

We rode through a thunderstorm to get to Pura Tirta Empul, and were privileged to observe the holy cleansing ritual as hundreds of devotees offered prayers under the pouring rain – it was a humbling experience and one I won’t soon forget.

The dress code for entering Tirta Empul temple is strict – you must wear a sarong (long pants that cover the knees will not suffice) which can be rented at the temple. The entry fee is 50,000 IDR for adults and parking costs extra. You should also be aware that like many other Hindu temples around Bali, women are requested not to enter during menstruation.

We also noticed that there were many tourists partaking in the melukat purification ritual as part of a tour – while it seems to be possible, I did not feel comfortable partaking as a non-Hindu. There is a lot of debate about the commercialization of religious ceremonies such as the melukat (similar to partaking in alms giving if you are not Buddhist ); if you are not Hindu, I encourage you to do your due diligence and put in some thought before you sign up for a tour that offers this as a tourist “experience”.

4. Do the Campuhan Ridge Walk

The Campuhan Ridge Walk (or Bukit Campuhan) is a fairly leisurely nature walk that begins just outside of Ubud’s main centre, and is one of the most popular places to visit in Ubud.

The scenic walk is approximately 2 kilometres long along a stone-paved path (not stroller-friendly), with a number of small rest stops and shops offering refreshments on the way.

The best time to do the Campuhan Ridge Walk is in the early morning or afternoon, when the heat of the mid-day sun isn’t beating down – the trail is not shaded so make sure you bring a hat and wear proper walking shoes as it can get steamy.

If you are hiking the Campuhan Ridge with young children I would recommend bringing a lightweight carrier – you can always turn back after 10-15 minutes and head back to the beginning of the trail if you don’t want to complete the entire walk.

5. Stop at the Saraswati Temple / Ubud Water Palace

Pura Taman Saraswati temple is a stunning Hindu temple in Ubud dedicated to the goddness of knowledge, Saraswati (or Sarasvati). Featuring an enchanting lotus pond, it is also sometimes referred to as the Ubud Water Palace.

It is located right in the heart of Ubud town (right behind Starbucks) and around the corner from the Ubud Palace. There is no entrance fee and worth a quick stop – you are not allowed to enter beyond the lotus pond area into the temple interiors.

Looking for the perfectly located Ubud accommodation in the heart of downtown? Check out the individual pool villas at Origin Ubud . We loved having breakfast served poolside each morning and the spacious, brightly-lit rooms. Click here to check availability and rates at Origin Ubud or head over here to see more hotel options in Ubud . Want to explore more Ubud hotel options? We also considered staying at 11 on Kajeng (a small boutique hotel within walking distance of the Ubud Palace and Saraswati Temple), The Sankara Resort (beautiful hotel with an excellent on-site spa, provides a shuttle service into town) and Sapodilla Ubud (one of the top-rated boutique hotels in Ubud).

6. Walk through the grounds of the Ubud Palace

Ubud Palace , or Puri Saren Agung, was once the official residence of the royal family of Ubud.

This historic landmark is conveniently located in Ubud town and, like the Saraswati Temple, has no entrance fee. It’s one of the most popular and well-known tourist attractions in Ubud.

As the grounds are not sprawling, you can explore Ubud Palace within 10-15 minutes as most interior locations are not open to tourists.

The palace hosts cultural performances in the evening, and tickets for the show can be bought at the gate.

7. Explore Goa Gajah elephant cave

The ancient Goa Gajah temple complex is a 15-20 minute car or scooter ride away from Ubud town. Though it is a fairly prominent and well-known Ubud attraction, the grounds are sprawling and there were only a handful of other tourists when we were there.

It is most well known for the intricately-carved devil face whose mouth serves as a doorway into the inner sanctum.

You can walk through the menacing portal – while the interior of the cave is fairly basic, it is not uncommon to see delicate floral offerings left within.

Directly in front of the cave is a large communal bath area which was unearthed in the 1950s featuring half a dozen rock statues of women, possibly Hindu deities, pouring water from jars.

In order to enter Goa Gajah you will need to purchase a ticket which costs 50,000 IDR per adult – this includes sarong rental which is required for entry. Don’t get pressured into purchasing a sarong from the souvenir shops! Parking costs extra at 2,000 IDR for scooters, so bring some small notes.

8. Lounge at a day club in Ubud

Honestly, a trip to Ubud just wouldn’t feel complete without some R&R at one of the amazing day clubs in the area, and you should definitely set aside some time during your Bali itinerary to lounge at an Ubud pool club.

Here’s the thing, the vast majority of Ubud tourists tend to flock towards the big-name Ubud day clubs – but there are actually a whole host of alternative options if you’re looking to spend a day in Ubud away from the crowds.

We loved our time at Kelapa Muda, Adidarma and Tis Cafe – all of these Ubud pool clubs have an on-site restaurant and fabulous pool to frolic in.

Kelapa Muda , or “young coconut”, is a stunning pool club in Ubud surrounded by rice paddies and palm trees. This was the perfect place to take our baby in Ubud – there is a small children’s playground, are willing to prepare off-menu kid’s items and the staff were so incredibly warm and hospitable.

The swim-up bar is a winner for grown-ups, and we were all-too-happy to spend our afternoons here lounging and sipping on drinks.

Adidarma , while perhaps more traditional in its architecture, has a lovely pool with built-in cabanas and a bamboo-built restaurant on-site. The food was some of the best we had in Ubud, and the staff were extremely friendly as well.

Tis Cafe in Tegallalang is a sophisticated and relaxing pool club overlooking the rice paddies. The food is fab and the setting and views really can’t be beat!

Ready to visit Ubud? Look for a hotel near downtown Ubud if you are a first-time visitor and want easy access to restaurants and bars. Head over here to see highly-rated hotel options in Ubud , or check out Origin Ubud – a boutique hotel in Ubud that offers the best of both worlds – it’s private and away from the hustle and bustle, but within walking distance to the main Ubud strip. We also considered staying at 11 on Kajeng (a boutique hotel within walking distance of Ubud town), The Sankara Resort (beautiful hotel outside the city centre with an on-site spa) and Sapodilla Ubud (a stunning hotel surrounded by lush greenery).

9. Drop in to a Yoga class

Like Canggu , Ubud has a strong Yoga community and is considered one of the top Yoga destinations in the world .

Yoga practitioners travel to Ubud to join in workshops and retreats led by some of the most popular Yoga teachers who travel from all over the world to share their teachings in Bali.

Wondering where to go in Ubud to practice Yoga? There are several wonderful yoga studios in Ubud to choose from, and all of them offer drop-in classes or you can buy a multi-class pass if you are spending more time in Ubud.

The Yoga Barn is a popular studio that offers a whole array of different classes, workshops and yoga trainings. The complex has its own on-site café, accommodation and spa, and also hosts ecstatic dance and community kirtan events.

Radiantly Alive Yoga studio in Ubud is another reputable and popular option for Yoga lovers – they have a diverse class offering everything from acroyoga and Vinyasa to myofascial release Yin and Kundalini.

10. Go for a dip in a jungle waterfall

Ubud is surrounded by waterfalls enveloped by lush jungle. The good news is that the top Ubud waterfalls are easy to reach – most are within a 30 minute to 1 hour-long drive away from the town centre. The bad news is that they can get extremely crowded.

After our time in Munduk I was, quite frankly, shocked by the ridiculous queues of people waiting up to an hour at Kanto Lampo waterfall for their turn to take photos in a series of poses in the exact same spot as the last person.

There was barely a second to spare to take a photo of the Kanto Lanto waterfall itself without a person in it – this is the best that I managed with the help of long exposure and some minor editing.

To avoid the crowds at the waterfalls in Ubud you will need to wake up bright and early to enjoy the peace and quiet, or travel to Ubud outside of the peak season which typically runs from June to August.

In addition to Kanto Lanto which is easily accessible from Ubud (only about 30 minutes away – entry costs 20,000 IDR), some other Ubud waterfalls to add to your Ubud itinerary include Tegenungang Waterfall (about 30 minutes from Ubud – there is also a pool club named Omma which overloks the waterfall), Tibumana Waterfall (45 minutes from Ubud), Tukad Cepung Waterfall (1 hour from Ubud) and Leke Leke Waterfall (just over an hour from Ubud).

Have more time in Ubud? You might also consider venturing to East Bali for a day trip to visit some of the island’s most important temples and former water palaces. Here is my East Bali day trip itinerary .

11. Get your caffeine fix

Coffee is taken very seriously in this neck of the jungle. Some of the best coffee in Bali is served in Ubud.

We especially loved the (seriously strong) flat whites from Ubud Coffee Roastery in the heart of downtown Ubud (limited seating), as well as the coffee from Gangga Coffee just outside of the main strip. I also heard great things about Seniman but didn’t get a chance to stop by this time around.

12. Wind down with a relaxing massage

The cherry on the cake of our 4 days in Ubud was a traditional Balinese massage at Radha Spa at The Sankara .

The stunning couple’s treatment room was light-filled and it felt as though we were in the depths of the forest with the lush garden.

After the spa treatment you can use the hotel’s pool or opt for a flower bath (at an additional cost). You can also book massages in Ubud at Kamandalu, Maya Ubud and Chapung Wellness – most will include a day pass to allow you to use their pool and other facilities.

13. Go on a sunrise trek up Mount Batur

Hiking up Mount Batur (AKA the Kintamani volcano) to watch the sunrise is one of the top things to do in Ubud. Most Mount Batur tour operators pick up hikers from Ubud sometime between 1:30-2 AM in the morning, and the trek begins at approximately 4 AM to ensure that you get to the top in time for the sunrise.

We had a toddler in tow, and let’s be honest – I’m not a huge fan of hiking, so gave this a miss. However lots of friends who have done the Mount Batur sunrise hike speak highly of the experience!

Ready to visit Ubud? Look for a hotel near downtown Ubud if you are a first-time visitor and want easy access to restaurants and bars. Head over here to see highly-rated hotel options in Ubud , or check out Origin Ubud – a boutique hotel in Ubud that offers the best of both worlds – it’s private and away from the hustle and bustle, but within walking distance to the main Ubud strip. It is perfect for couples and solo travelers! We also considered staying at 11 on Kajeng (a boutique hotel within walking distance of Ubud town), The Sankara Resort (beautiful hotel outside the city centre with an on-site spa) and Sapodilla Ubud (a stunning hotel surrounded by lush greenery).

Travel tips for visiting Ubud with a baby

Heading to Ubud with kids? There are a few things you should know first. Families traveling with young children to Ubud will love the child-friendly pool clubs in the area, waterfalls which are easy-to-reach from the centre of town, and walking down the rice terraces at Tegallalang. I even saw a few older children having a blast watching the traditional Kecak fire dance show in the evening.

Here are some additional tips for visiting Ubud with children:

Worried about bringing too much luggage?  You can rent any baby gear including travel cots and car seats for around US$5 or AU$7 a day. We used  Bali Baby Hire  – it was easy to coordinate the equipment booking via e-mail and they even dropped off and picked up all the gear for us (for an extra fee).

Book a driver with a child car seat.  I recommend getting in touch with Gede (number at the top of this Ubud travel guide) who can provide a forward-facing child car/booster seat. If you need a rear-facing baby car seat for younger children book one for your trip via Bali Baby Hire.

Stock up on diapers and baby food in Ubud.  You can easily buy diapers and baby food from Pepito Andong Ubud about 10 minutes away from the main strip.

Be prepared if your baby gets sick in Bali.  Many Ubud hotels will have a pediatrician on call, make sure you ask if your baby requires medical attention. Otherwise, head straight to BIMC private hospital in Ubud. You can also buy baby paracetamol in liquid form from Guardian pharmacies.

Many hotels may not have a cot, or may be adults-only.  Double check with hotels if they are able to provide a cot, as they might not even if the hotel’s booking page says that they can.  Origin Ubud  were able to provide a wooden cot in the room, though we opted to use our own rented travel cot.

Some, but not all, restaurants and day clubs in Bali have high chairs.  If you are looking for kid-friendly cafes and restaurants in Ubud I recommend Milk & Madu (however it does not have any outdoor play area like the ones in Canggu) or Kelapa Muda. If you are not sure whether a restaurant in Ubud has a high chair consider bringing along a portable travel high chair like the Totseat or Bumbo booster.

Last but absolutely not least, here is my top tip for traveling to Ubud with kids: need an extra pair of hands to wrangle your little one?  There are many experienced nannies in Bali  who you can hire by the hour (or day, or even your whole trip) to help you out so that you can actually sit down and eat your meal, go for a surf, practice yoga or go for a massage.

I highly recommend getting in touch with Febri from Feby’lous Bali Nanny or Ani from Mom’s Nanny Care – we have personally used both services. We were set up with Ani who looked after our baby in Canggu, Ubud and Uluwatu during our 2 weeks in Bali.

Get in touch with Febri or Ani as soon as you know your dates for visiting Ubud as good nannies are in high demand! The rates are extremely reasonable – 75,000 IDR (US$5 or AU$7) per hour and up with a minimum of 5-6 hours per day. There is an extra fuel surcharge to help cover the cost of the commute to Ubud (many nannies are based in and around Denpasar).

Ready to visit Ubud? If you want easy access to restaurants and bars check out Origin Ubud – a boutique hotel that offers the best of both worlds – it’s private and away from the hustle and bustle, but within walking distance to the main Ubud strip. We also considered staying at 11 on Kajeng (a boutique hotel within walking distance of Ubud town), The Sankara Resort (beautiful hotel outside the city centre with an on-site spa) and Sapodilla Ubud (a stunning hotel surrounded by lush greenery). You can also head over here to explore other highly-rated hotel options in Ubud .

Where to go after Ubud

We traveled to Ubud after spending time in Munduk and Canggu. You could, however, kick off your time in Bali in Ubud. Planning your Bali itinerary and not sure where to go after Ubud? Here are a few options:

Ubud to Munduk : Munduk in northern Bali is a quiet mountain town that remains somewhat off-the-beaten-path. It is surrounded by dozens of waterfalls and is a stone’s throw from one of the holiest Hindu water temples in Bali – Pura Ulun Danu Beratan. Munduk is located approximately 70 kilometres or two hours by car from Ubud. Read my Munduk travel guide here .

Ubud to Uluwatu : Uluwatu in the southern Bukit Peninsula is popular for its white sand beaches, world-class surf and picturesque clifftop views. Uluwatu is only 55 kilometres or so from Ubud but the road into Uluwatu through Denpasar is often crowded with heavy traffic, so you can expect the drive from Ubud to Uluwatu to take over two hours. Read my Uluwatu travel guide here .

Ubud to Canggu: Canggu  is one of the top beach destinations in Bali and a great place to begin or end your Bali 2 week itinerary. Canggu is only 30 kilometres or an hour by car from Ubud. Read my Canggu travel guide here .

Ubud to Sanur: The coastal beach town is an underrated Bali destination, popular with families and people looking for a less frenetic pace and fewer crowds. Sanur is about an hour by car from Ubud. Read my Sanur travel guide here .

I hope this guide to Ubud in Bali helps you to plan your perfect getaway!

You may also enjoy these reads:

• It can be overwhelming planning a trip to Bali. Here is a 2 week Bali itinerary to get you started , complete with trip extension options
• Headed to the mountains of northern Bali before or after Ubud?  Here is my Munduk travel guide
• East Bali is home to some of the island’s most iconic landmarks. Here is my guide to planning a day trip to East Bali
• Canggu is a wonderful Bali beach destination for solo travelers, couples and families alike. Read my Canggu travel guide for first-time visitors
• The stunning Bukit Peninsula has plenty to offer beyond the peeling surf – check out my Uluwatu travel guide for more details
• Sanur is often overlooked with a reputation for being “too sleepy” but it is incredibly underrated. Read my guide to the top things to do in Sanur to plan your trip to this east coast beach town
• Southeast Asia is one of the most exciting regions, but there are many common misconceptions about this part of the world.  Read this before you travel to Southeast Asia!

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Ubud, Bali: Planning Your Trip

 Ana Alarcon / TripSavvy

Ubud, Bali , once a mostly serene “hippie” destination for travelers interested in yoga, healthy food, and fresh air, has grown into one of the busiest and most popular destinations in Bali . Elizabeth Gilbert’s book "Eat, Pray, Love"—and the 2010 film of the same name—permanently pushed Ubud to the forefront of the tourist radar.

But despite its popularity, green rice terraces still cling to the edges of town, defiant against impending development. Vegetarian eateries and hipster cafes serving excellent coffee abound. Boutique shops showcase Bali’s famous craftsmanship and work from local artists. Hindu architecture and peaceful temples compensate for increased consumerism with an air of ancient authority.

You’ll want a few days to get the most from a visit to Ubud. These tips will expedite the process of getting to know Bali’s cultural epicenter.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ubud is during the summer months of June, July and August, when the weather is driest and the days are sunny.

Language: Being the cultural center of Bali, you will hear plenty of English spoken here. However, the majority of people in Ubud will be fluent in either Bahasa Indonesian or Balinese.

Currency:  Rupiah.

Getting Around:  Offers will come in abundance from private drivers as you walk around Ubud. If you need one, rather than accepting offers on the street, ask at your reception. They'll inevitably have a family member willing to drive you, and there will be a lot more accountability. Negotiate a rate and details before setting out. The ride sharing app Grab is popular on Bali; it's convenient for getting around by car. Because of trouble from the local taxi mafia, your driver may act "low key" or want to collect you somewhere other than at the main entrance of the hotel.

Travel Tip: Despite the tranquil reputation of Ubud, simply walking around town is often frustrating. Jammed traffic—vehicles and pedestrians—and severely broken sidewalks require a bit of energy to navigate. The sidewalks around Ubud are notoriously uneven and damaged; broken drainage holes with jagged metal bars pose hazards that injure travelers every year. You may find yourself wishing you had packed combat boots rather than flip-flops . Before stepping off the sidewalk to avoid an obstacle, cast a quick glance over your shoulder to ensure that an impatient motorbike driver isn’t zipping along the curb in your direction. People often drive the wrong way on Ubud's one-way streets.

Things to Do

Bali's coasts are great for sand and sunsets, but Ubud is arguably the cultural, artistic, and holistic heart of Bali. You could spend weeks taking advantage of the many health-improving options before starting on all the sights and activities.

• For first-timers, the premier of all things to do in Ubud is to visit the Monkey Forest . The green sanctuary occupies the southwest corner of Ubud, but the resident macaques roam freely, sometimes bullying passerby and making raids on nearby shops. Opportunities for up-close photos abound, just watch out for your camera!
• Seeing a traditional Balinese dance performance in Ubud is almost compulsory. Yes, the shows are touristy; regardless, they're entertaining and memorable. The nightly shows are easy to find and feature talented performers in colorful costumes.
• Yoga is ubiquitous in Ubud. Whether you're a pro or just curious, there are endless opportunities for taking advantage of cheap sessions in beautiful settings. A single yoga class is usually US $10 or less; it gets even cheaper if you purchase a pass or bundle of several classes. The Yoga Barn is by far the largest and most popular place for travelers to try yoga, but there are many other options.
• The Betel Nut on Jalan Raya Ubud to the west of Ubud's town center is a beautiful venue that often hosts cultural events. Check their schedule for documentary screenings, poetry readings, and special events.
• The Ubud Art Market , at the corner of Jalan Ubud Raya and Jalan Monkey Forest, is an outdoor art clearinghouse. It opens early (6 a.m). Get there in the morning and be prepared to negotiate for inexpensive gifts, souvenirs, and handmade goods. But don't believe for a minute that every wooden object on display was made by an artist in Bali; much of it is imported from elsewhere in Asia.
• Ubud is home to many beautiful Hindu temples , although they may be closed for prayer times and special days on the Hindu calendar. Don’t wear shorts if you plan to explore the temples. Men and women are expected to cover themselves with a sarong; some temples provide them for free at the entrance while others will rent you one for a small fee. Always remove your shoes before entering a religious place.

What to Eat and Drink

Ubud is blessed with an abundance of good eateries, vegetarian cafes, juice shops, and European-style restaurants. You won’t have any trouble finding healthy food, although menus are a little pricey compared to the rest of Indonesia.

For a cheap, authentic Indonesian meal , consider eating in the local warungs or find a Padang rumah makan (eating house). You can enjoy a plate of rice, piece of fish or chicken, vegetables, boiled egg, and fried tempeh for around 25,000 rupiah (US $2) or less! Look for eateries with food displayed in the window; simply point at what you want to put on your plate of rice.

Make sure to watch out for arak , a locally produced spirit often the primary alcohol found in happy hour drinks because it's so cheap. Call it Indonesia's "moonshine." Sadly, methanol poison from drinking arak is responsible for the deaths of locals and tourists each year .

• Padang Food: Warung Masakan Minang Halal is a simple-but-excellent Padang eatery on the north end of Jalan Hanoman (left side when facing Jalan Raya Ubud, the main road).
• Traditional Roast Pig: To sample babi guling (roast pig) prepared deliciously the Balinese way, get to Warung Ibu Oka. The simple restaurant was made famous by the late Anthony Bourdain . It's only open four hours a day; pigs are stuffed with herbs and roasted off site. Don't expect to eat anything else there other than babi guling and the sides that accompany!
• Balinese Food: For a healthy, very affordable meal of local tempeh and nasi campur (mixed vegetables on rice), check out Warung Biah Biah on Jalan Goutama. If it's too busy, which it often is, try any of the nearby eateries on the same street — competition is fierce.
• Vegan Food: For the healthiest vegan options and medicinal teas in town, Seeds of Life (also on Jalan Goutama) is the most unique of Ubud's many places to eat healing food.
• Western Food: The Italian-run Buonasera just down the street from Seeds of Life serves the best brick-oven pizza in town with a glass of red wine.
• Bars: Unlike Gili Trawangan in nearby Lombok's Gili Islands , Ubud isn’t exactly a “party” destination. Regardless, you’ll find a handful of fun bars to socialize in. CP Lounge is a large, popular, late-night place with hookah pipes, live entertainment, pool tables, open-air hangouts, and an enclosed dance floor with a DJ.

Where to Stay

As a major tourist destination, Ubud boasts a wide variety of accommodations, from villas and lodges to boutique hotels. Just 20 minutes north of Ubud, the Capella Ubud offers 22 luxurious one-bedroom suites with sprawling outdoor decks and private plunge pools, featuring bold patterns and design quirks like brass monkeys lining the roof. Other great luxury options include the relaxed, sun-filled COMO Uma Ubud and the Viceroy Bali in Ubud's nearby Valley of the Kings. For an adults-only option, the 11 on Kajeng is walking distance from both the town center and the Juwuk Manis rice paddies. And for the budget-minded, the Sri Ratih Cottages offer rustic charm and breathtaking views just minutes away from all of the action.

Culture and Customs

Ubud is an artistic town, and craftsmanship is part of its identity. A large community of artists and craftsmen call Ubud home as well as many talented metalsmiths and jewelers. Numerous galleries are situated around town. On the fringes of Ubud, hand-carved goods are literally piled outside of workshops; many will offer you discounts (and shipping) on sizable works. If you own a stone and have considered commissioning someone to create a custom piece of jewelery, Ubud is a good place to do so.

Money Saving Tips

• Unlike in other parts of Southeast Asia, minimarts along Jalan Monkey Forest don't have consistent pricing. A Coke or bottle of water in "tourist" minimarts may cost as much as three times more than regular price at a shop literally two doors down.
• If yoga is going to be a big part of your visit to Ubud, ask up front about booking a package or bundle of lessons rather than paying each time. You'll often receive a discount for committing to several classes; sometimes accommodation is discounted with yoga bundles at places such as  Yoga Barn .
• Many homestays and guesthouses in Ubud  offer free breakfast—choose a place that does and take advantage!
• Grab a ridesharing app in Southeast Asia similar to Uber and Lyft, allows you to pay drivers in cash rather than through the app.
• Travelers often visit the same places in Bali and may be going your direction. Ask around to see if anyone is interested in sharing a private taxi to split costs and cut down on traffic.
• The airport serves as somewhat of a hub for public buses. If you absolutely can't get a ride somewhere, you can always get back to the airport then go onward from there.
• Using an ATM attached to a bank branch is always the safest as there is less chance that a card-skimming device has been installed . Also, ATMs that are physically near their bank sometimes offer higher daily limits and a better chance of getting your card back in the event it is captured.
• ATMs often display the currency denominations available. Whenever possible, use machines that dispense 50,000-rupiah banknotes: they are easier to break than the 100,000-rupiah notes. Paying for a cheap coffee with a 100,000-rupiah note is bad form ; vendors may have to run for change.
• If renting a motorbike, fuel up at proper petrol stations rather than buying bottles of gasoline from vendors on the side of the road to save money and get better performance.
• In Indonesia, you can begin a transaction by asking bisa kurang? (sounds like: bee-sah koo-rong) or “Can discount?” Sometimes you'll receive a smile and small discount right at the start!

Bali Guide: Planning Your Trip

8 Days in Indonesia: A Travel Itinerary From Jakarta to Bali

10 Common Scams in Bali

Shopping at the Ubud Art Market, Central Bali

Shopping in Ubud and Around Central Bali

How to Go Shopping in Bali

Bali's Regions & Beaches, Decoded

10 Things to Do in Ubud, Bali

The 10 Best Yoga Retreats in Bali

Warung Ibu Oka: an Authentic Balinese Dining Experience

How to Spend One Week in Bali

10 Foods to Try in Bali

10 Best Things to Do in South Bali

What $100 Can Get You in Southeast Asia

The 10 Best Restaurants in Bali

Guide to Bali's Watersports Hotspot Tanjung Benoa

Ultimate Ubud 4-Day Itinerary: A Complete Guide

Are you planning a trip to Bali? One of the most popular locations is Ubud, and even though it’s a dynamic place, it’s still a gem, which we loved! You’ll need a few days to explore the town and surrounding areas, so I thought a Ubud 4-day itinerary would help you plan an epic holiday in Bali. We lived in Bali for six months, and although we were based in Canggu, we visited Ubud a few times; it’s one of my favorite places! Well, to be honest, Bali was great. In this post, I’m sharing the ultimate, or at least what I consider the top, 4-day Ubud itinerary. I’m also including personal insights, tour recommendations, and a few other topics to help you plan an epic trip!

This is a guest post by Abigail Dalton. Abigail  is the owner and creator behind  I’m Going On An Adventure . She focuses on budget travel and outdoor adventure, giving first-hand experiences to help her readers plan their perfect travel and make the best memories.

Summary: Ubud 4-Day Itinerary

Campuhan Ridge, Ubud

• Day 1: Ubud Town – Spend the day visiting Campuhan Ridge Walk, Kajeng Rice Fields, Ubud Art Market, Ubud Water Palace (Saraswati Lotus Temple), Ubud Royal Palace and the Sacred Monkey Forest.
• Day 2: Ubud Bike Tour – Tegalalang Rice Terraces , villages and local crafts; finish with a Balinese massage in Ubud
• Day 3: Purification Ceremony at Taman Beji Waterfall, Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu and Goa Gajah Cave Sanctuary
• Day 4: Waterfall & Temple Visits – Pura Lempuyang Temple, Tirta Gangga (Water Palace), Pura Tirta Empul Temple, Tukad Cepung Waterfall, Tibumana Waterfall, Tegenungan Waterfall and Kanto Lampo Waterfall

For the best holiday, I recommend booking a couple of Bali tours and, if you have time, visiting some lesser-known spots as well as the more popular hangouts. 4-days in Ubud is a reasonable amount of time, but consider visiting other gems like Amed or Medewi as well.

Planning Your 4 Days In Ubud

Before we dive in, I want to go over some things worth considering when planning a trip to Bali in Indonesia . Firstly, Bali has become a popular holiday destination, meaning it attracts large crowds. Even though it’s still a beautiful destination, you won’t be getting paradise for yourselves. It’s essential to have realistic expectations, so you’re not disappointed.

Jalan Bisma in Ubud and Hindu statues

Questions to think about when planning your trip:

• When are you planning to visit, and for how long are you traveling? Depending on the time of year you visit, the island can look and feel very different!
• Are you comfortable riding a scooter? Or would you prefer private transportation? Consider this carefully, as it may impact the feasibility of some of the activities listed in this itinerary.
• What are the top attractions and activities you want to experience in Ubud? Ubud is a treasure trove of culture and fun,  so it’s challenging to see it all. If you only have four days in Ubud, you’ll have to choose your favorites carefully.
• Where should you stay in Ubud, and what type of accommodation suits your needs? Ubud is teeming with fantastic hotels. You’ll find budget stays at luxury resorts, but staying central is crucial to having the best experience.
• What is the budget for your trip? Bali can be affordable if you’re consciously budgeting, but it’s easy to blow the budget, too. Keep this in mind when choosing activities.
• What type of travel insurance will you be purchasing? Depending on which activities you choose to do, some insurance doesn’t cover high-risk sports.

After you’ve considered these questions, you’ll be on your way to planning a great visit to Bali. 

As for your 4 days in Ubud, let’s crack on; the itinerary below is how I would’ve chosen to spend my time if I had known what I know now from living there.

Ubud 4-Day Itinerary: Day 1

Ubud Town: Campuhan Ridge Walk – Kajeng Rice Fields – Ubud Art Market –  Ubud Water Palace (Saraswati Lotus Temple) – Ubud Royal Palace – Sacred Monkey Forest.

It’s only fitting that you spend your first day exploring Ubud Town. This will fit into most schedules should you arrive early in the morning or the night before. Central Ubud is not big, and you can visit all these attractions in a day.

Campuhan Ridge Walk

If you’ve got a full day to explore, I would recommend visiting Campuhan Ridge Walk in the morning. This is when there are fewer crowds; you’re more likely to see locals walking their dogs instead. 

The morning also brings cooler temperatures, and early morning Ubud was always a favorite of ours; visit for sunrise to make it even better!

Once you reach the end of the ridge (start at the south end), you’ll enter a small community that sells local arts and crafts; this is quite an artistic area of Ubud. Follow the road through, and you’ll come out at rice fields. There are many small warungs within the fields, and they are great places to grab breakfast.

Afterwards, you can either walk back along the ridge or jump in a taxi to take you back to central Ubud. I suggest you download the Gojek or Grab ride-hail app (it’s the same as Uber) for ease. If you end up in remote areas, you can also request a scooter taxi through the same service!

Ubud Water Palace (Saraswati Lotus Temple) & Ubud Royal Palace

Once back in central Ubud, enjoy the rest of your morning by visiting top sites like the Water Palace and Ubud’s Royal Palace. They are very close to each other, so you can easily walk between them. 

The Royal Palace was the residence of the royal family of Ubud until the early 20th century. It was built in the 18th century. It’s a charming attraction known for its traditional Balinese architecture and intricate carvings. 

Today, it serves as a cultural center and a venue for traditional dance performances, which you can book for evening entertainment. Keep in mind it’s also referred to as Puri Saren Agung if you see that somewhere and get confused.

The Ubud Water Palace, also known as Pura Taman Saraswati, is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Saraswati, who is the goddess of knowledge, music, and art. It was built in the early 20th century by the prince of Ubud.

Unluckily for us, when we visited, it was closed for maintenance, so we never got to enter! Even so, the temple is surrounded by a beautiful lotus pond, which makes it a popular spot for photography. It’s also known for its intricate carvings and traditional Balinese architecture.

I suggest going to Ubud Royal Palace first and then the Water Palace as it’s closer to the next attraction: Kajeng Rice Fields. 

Kajeng Rice Fields

Kajeng Rice Fields is a beautiful hidden gem in the centre of Ubud, or at least they were when we visited! Currently, I think they have become better known, but people still opt to visit the larger rice terraces and forget about these. 

Located in the heart of Ubud, these are picturesque rice fields where you can walk around and engage with local farmers. It was one of the highlights of our trips to Ubud.

Kajeng rice fields

These rice fields join the larger Juwuk Manis Rice Fields, although there is a shorter circular path you can follow, which I recommend. Otherwise, you’ll end up way out of town, near the rice fields you visited at breakfast at the end of Campuhan Ridge, but on the other side of the river!

There are a few warungs and restaurants attached to hotels located within these rice fields, which are perfect for grabbing lunch. A favorite is Sweet Orange Warung; I suggest stopping by and refilling while taking in the tranquil surroundings.

Sacred Monkey Forest

• Closes at 5:00 pm

Once back in central Ubud, heading to the Sacred Monkey Forest is the next best thing. You can walk; it’s simply at the end of one long road: JL. Monkey Forest. However, your feet might be tired by this point, so it’s easiest to jump in a taxi.

Ubud Monkey Forest

Sacred Monkey Forest is a Hindu temple complex set within the lush jungle and home to hundreds of macaque monkeys. They aren’t the friendliest and will rob you blind if given the opportunity; they like phones and hats, so be warned!

There are other animals here as well, such as deer and many beautiful birds. That said, the monkeys are cute, especially the babies.

Ubud Art Market

Closes are 6:00 pm

The final point of call on your first day in Ubud is the Art Market or street market. You likely would have seen it when visiting the Royal Palace as it’s directly opposite, but I’ve left it till last so you don’t have to lug your purchases around with you all day; you’re welcome!

The Ubud Art Market is excellent. You’ll find all things boho and crafty: food, clothes, souvenirs, jewellery and nick-nacks of all sorts. If you’re planning on buying, be sure to pack some reusable bags in your day packs. Bali has a huge pollution problem!

For dinner, there are a few great places nearby. Depending on how much local food you ate during the day, you might want something closer to home. Some suggestions are Milk & Madu, La Barraca, or Taco & Grill.

Ubud 4-Day Itinerary: Day 2

Ubud Bike Tour: Tegalalang Rice Terraces – Villages and Local Crafts – Balinese massage in Ubud

Ubud Bike tour

Tegalalang rice terraces near Ubud, Bali

One of the best things we did in Bali was go on a scooter road trip around the island. Although it’s not quite the same as a bicycle, we were able to visit authentic Bali towns, explore rural villages, enjoy beautiful scenery, and learn about Balinese culture and traditions.

If you’re only visiting Bali for a few days, a Bali bike tour should be top of your list for all the reasons mentioned above! You’ll get a local guide who knows the area and can guide you through untouched parts of Ubud. Visiting such areas will be a truly fulfilling experience!

The best bike tours include visits to volcanoes, rural villages, waterfalls, and the famous UNESCO rice terraces; some are even on e-bikes, so make the most of your day by choosing one of those that include these attractions. 

I recommend the Downhill Bike Tour with Rice Terraces and Meal. 

Balinese Massage

Sinar Spa, Ubud

There’s nothing better than being pampered, and I love a good massage. After your day of riding, if you feel like you need a little R&R, and let’s be honest, you probably will, head out for a Balinese massage! 

It’s a traditional Indonesian healing technique that combines elements of acupressure, reflexology, and aromatherapy. It is a type of deep-tissue massage that typically involves long, sweeping strokes, deep kneading, and gentle stretching of the muscles.

The history of Balinese massage dates back to ancient times when it was used as a form of healing for warriors and royalty. But, these days, it has become a popular spa treatment around the world.

The best part is that in Bali, Balinese massages are super affordable! We went to one at the end of Kajeng Village just before the start of the rice fields: Juwuk Manis Massage Ubud.

Ubud 4-Day Itinerary: Day 3

Purification Ceremony – Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu – Goa Gajah Cave Sanctuary

The best way to complete day three is to hire a scooter and go about the sites independently. 

This will give you time at each attraction without feeling rushed. If you don’t fancy renting a scooter in Bali, you can always hire a private driver for the day. Luckily, this is very affordable in Bali, and many companies offer this service.

Purification Ceremony

Day three and you absolutely have to experience a Balinese Purification Ceremony . These are known as Melukat ceremonies, which are believed to purify the mind, body, and soul. It’s an essential part of the Hindu Balinese culture, which dominates the island of Gods.

There are many locations throughout the island where it’s possible to partake in this ceremony, the most popular being Tirta Empul temple, a wonderful temple in Southeast Asia . We decided to visit Taman Beji Waterfall and think it’s one of the better spots.

A traditional ceremony includes prayers, offerings, and purification rituals. They differ slightly depending on location, but at Beji Waterfall, one of the final steps is to enter the waterfall and scream as loudly as possible to release negative energies. 

It was a surreal experience and one we highly recommend!

Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu

About 15km outside of central Ubud is this ancient water temple. It’s built around a natural spring and is another site for purification rituals; when we visited, many locals were bathing and performing the ritual. However, we didn’t see too many tourists; it’s definitely a more tranquil temple that is very suitable for conscious travelers who like to explore more of the beaten path places. 

The small temple complex is surrounded by lush tropical gardens and a pond filled with koi fish, the reason for visiting. It’s a lovely temple, although it is unkept in comparison to some of the more significant sites. 

You are able to explore the temple complex, the entrance fee is 30,000 IDR (about £1.50), but keep in mind that to enter beyond the pond, proper dress is required. It’s recommended to wear a sarong or sash (included in the fee), so make sure you pack one. Otherwise, it is possible to rent these from outside the temple or purchase them from the nearby shops.

Alternatively, you can visit Titra Empul temple, which isn’t far away (or both if you have time).

Goa Gajah Cave Sanctuary

The last stop for the day should be Goa Gajah Cave Sanctuary, also known as the Elephant Cave. It’s a historic cave temple located in Bedulu Village near central Ubud, so it’s a nice place to finish the day.

It’s believed to have been built in the 9th century as a spiritual place for meditation and worship. The cave is covered in carvings and sculptures that depict various Hindu and Buddhist symbols and mythological creatures.

Interestingly, the entrance to the cave is designed to resemble the mouth of a demon, with a large statue of a demon-like creature guarding the gate, which costs 15,000 IDR to enter.

It’s a popular tourist destination and used to be on the UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE tentative list so it would be a great addition to your Ubud itinerary. 

Ubud 4-Day Itinerary: Day 4

Waterfall & Temple Visits: Pura Lempuyang Temple – Tirta Gangga (Water Palace) – Tirta Empul Temple – Tukad Cepung Waterfall

For your final day, I suggest booking a temple and waterfall tour. There are many available, but try to book one, which will take you to the remaining must-visit sites, such as Pura Lempuyang temple, Tirta Gangga, and a waterfall. If you haven’t already visited Tirta Empul temple, today is a good day to head there.

I recommend the Bali Instagram: Gate of Heaven Temple Tour , which includes all the above locations.

Alternatively, you could continue exploring independently on a scooter. However, you’ll be covering quite a lot of distance, and so a car is better. Another option is a private customizable day tour.

Pura Lempuyang Temple

Better known as Heaven Gate, this is a temple to visit in the morning before the clouds set in above Mount Agung, Bali’s tallest volcano. It’s a small temple, and the main reason to visit it is to grab a shot between the gates with the volcano in the background.

Tirta Gangga & Tirta Empul

Tirta Empul, Ubud, Bali

These two are beautiful water temples; Tirta Gangga is famous for its stepping stones and koi fish, while Tirta Empul is where you’ll find the majority of purification ceremonies taking place. They are both bust attractions, although still lovely to visit, just expect crowds so you’re not disappointed!  

→ Also read: Everything you need to know about Banjar Hot Springs in the north of Bali

Tukad Cepung Waterfall

One of our favorite waterfalls, Tukad Cepung, takes a little work to reach, but it’s worthwhile. Nestled within the jungle in a fissure cave, you’ll find the waterfall has a charming appeal. It’s surrounded by huge boulders, with a small stream running through the lush overgrowth. 

The whole site is quite lovely to explore, with a few other smaller waterfalls around. Back at the top, there are a handful of local warungs with seating overlooking the canopy below.

Other significant waterfalls to visit include Tibumana Waterfall, Tegenungan Waterfall, and Kanto Lampo Waterfall.

Where To Stay In Ubud

Ubud is a fantastic location in Bali to base yourself for an epic holiday. It’s central, an hour from the airport, and surrounded by lush jungle and ancient temples. It’s the cultural hub of Bali and a very relaxing spot to visit.

To make sure you have the best holiday, it’s essential to choose the suitable accommodation for you. There are lots of options, from guest houses and hostels aimed at backpackers and budget travelers to luxury villas and resorts with private pools and breathtaking views.

Since Ubud is in the hills, it’s worth remembering that it’s not close to the ocean. Due to this, I suggest booking accommodation with a swimming pool if possible!

To help you choose, I’ve found three options to browse through, depending on your budget.

• Top-end option: Five elements Retreat Bali
• Mid-range option: Parvati Retreat
• Budget option: Jero Ratna Homestay

Best Time To Visit Ubud

Tirta Empul near Ubud, Bali

Bali has two seasons: wet and dry. It’s possible to visit throughout the year, although during the wet season, expect short sudden bursts of rainfall, usually in the afternoons and evenings. It can be a beautiful time to visit, especially if you’re looking for wildlife encounters as they become more active this time of year.

For beach holidays, consider visiting during the dry period, so you’re not disappointed. Keep in mind that during peak season, the price of activities and attractions does increase. 

The peak season runs from April to September, with the wet season starting in October and lasting until May. 

Are 4 Days Enough Time In Ubud?

Four days are enough to visit the top sites in Ubud. It’s not enough for a whole holiday to Bali, but for Ubud, you will be fine. Generally, a 10 to 14-day holiday in Bali is sufficient to have a fulfilling trip but if you like to travel slowly , consider staying for at least a month.

How To Get To Ubud From Airport

Ubud is around 1 hour 15 minutes from Bali’s international airport. There are numerous ways to reach the town, and it’s not necessary to pre-book a transfer, although this can save time and hassle.

Private Car Hire

A lot of visitors will opt for a private car transfer. This is the most convenient way of reaching Ubud but usually the most expensive. However, Bali is affordable, so even a costly option isn’t necessarily going to be too expensive.

I recommend this private Bali airport transfer from Kirana Tour.

Ride-Sharing Apps

When we are in Bali, we use Gojek to book our taxis. They work like Uber; however, they are frowned upon by the local Bluebird taxi services. Sometimes, they refuse to enter the airport, so if you plan to use them, you might have to walk to the car park to meet them.

Personally, I think they are the best way to get from A to B. You will know exactly what you’re paying before you travel, and they are readily available.

Bluebird Taxis is the local taxi service; in all honesty, we have never used them, so I can’t tell you for sure if they are good. From reading reviews, they seem to be reliable and reputable. You can grab them from the taxi rank outside the airport.

Airport Shuttle

If you have already booked your accommodation, they will likely offer an airport shuttle service. This is usually the most cost-effective option, although the Gojek could work out cheaper depending on your accommodation. 

Some hotels will offer a free airport transfer; for others, you will have to pay an additional charge. If you choose this option, you’ll have to email the hotel before your arrival to arrange the shuttle.

How To Explore Ubud

Rice terraces at the end of Campuhan Ridge

Central Ubud is pretty easy to explore on foot; in fact, it’s the best way, as any other method is not practical. Traffic can get nasty, especially during rush hours. 

For exploring attractions outside of central Ubud, renting a scooter is the most efficient. 

However, some of you might prefer something else. It’s also possible to use taxis to take you to sites or, as I mentioned earlier, hire a private driver for the day. Some people also arrange for a private driver for the entirety of their holiday; this is also a feasible option. 

Finally, you can use tours to explore Ubud, which includes transfers to and from attractions.

In Summary: Ubud 4-days Itinerary

As always, I leave you with a few final thoughts for your 4-days in Ubud itinerary. The biggest takeaway is to remember that Ubud is a popular destination, and you must prepare for crowds, especially if you visit during peak season.

As for the attractions I’ve listed in this Ubud itinerary, and after spending a lot of time in Bali, I honestly believe that they are the best sites to visit if you only have four days. They will provide you with a variety of cultural, educational, and fun experiences so you will have a fulfilling holiday. 

Remember, Bali has a unique culture, and it’s important to respect their religion; always cover your knees when visiting sacred sites. We loved eating in the warungs, and if you’re a little foodie like us, be sure to check them out too; there is one in central Ubud we recommend: Warung Makan Bu Rus! 

Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you click on them, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Fancy more Indonesia travel advice?

• How to Take the Ferry from Bali to Lombok
• Munduk Waterfalls: The Ultimate Guide to Three Hidden Gems
• Munduk Bali: 11 Great Things to Do in 2023!
• Komodo Island Tours: 9 Best Options to Book Your Trip!
• December 16, 2023

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A guide to exploring Ubud, Bali

Updated On 28th February, 2024

Ubud, located in the central foothills of the Gianyar Regency, was my favourite spot during my January 2017 exploration of the tropical island we know as Bali. I’ve been to Bali three times now and each time I’ve loved a different spot more significantly than others. This is the ultimate guide to Ubud, for those of you wanting to visit when you go to Bali.

Ubud, for me, encompasses a lot of what I see as ‘authentic Bali’, from its visual presentation to the interactions and experiences on offer in this gorgeous village. Don’t get me wrong, you have your Western establishments popping up, but they are hard to avoid these days. Somehow, even though it’s become the thriving destination that it is, Ubud has wonderfully managed to hold to so many of its roots .

Host to some of Bali’s most iconic landscapes and known as the  spiritual home  of the island, your adventures here in Ubud wouldn’t be complete without a wander around the  rice paddies,  lunch at one of the many stunning  raw food restaurants , a stroll around Ubud  market , or an afternoon  wandering around the temples .

Ubud makes for a perfect  relaxing getaway  and would be my number one recommendation in Bali. It’s a destination that, for a longer adventure, would partner nicely with one of the nearby tropical islands such as Nusa Lembongan, Gili or Lombok.

Here’s the ultimate guide to exploring Bali, Indonesia.

A complete guide to Ubud, Bali…

EXPLORE BALI ON MY BLOG HERE

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

Where to stay in Ubud…

Whether you’re looking for an  exclusive villa overlooking the rice paddies , a  basic bed in the hustle and bustle  of Ubud’s activity, or a villa for you and your loved ones… Ubud can cater to everyone.

Central Ubud is pretty jam-packed and is an awesome place to stay if you only have a couple of days and would rather not rent a motorbike to get around. If you locate yourself centrally, most of the main attractions are within walking distance as it’s a pretty small village. Then you can just hop in a taxi or on the back of a moped for a couple of other excursions, should you wish.

If you’re looking for something with a little more space and landscape, then try the neighbouring villages of Penastanan or Nyuh Kuning too. Honestly, it won’t take long before you fall in love with somewhere on this beautiful island.

Looking for a hostel?

You can grab a hostel for as little as £3 a night, though most of them lie between £5-8 per person / night. Type  Ubud into HostelWorld here  and have a browse at the gorgeous locations on offer.

Looking for a hotel or a villa?

See Trip Advisor’s top 10 Ubud hotels here.

Looking for an Airbnb?

As always, unless you are a solo traveller or particularly fancy hostel life,  I recommend starting your search on AirBnb . In Bali, you get incredible value for money and can bag yourself some  unique experiences  via AirBnb. I use it all the time!

Get £30 off your first Airbnb booking here.

My recommendation: Cito’s Guesthouse

Prices from 200,000 IDR (£11 a night). There are different grade rooms, the one below is £22 a night (private bathroom, breakfast and balcony included) which split between the two of you is just £11 each.

Book our room here on Airbnb

Check out my top tips for staying in hostels here, as well as my hostel packing list.

If you want a unique place to stay in Bali, try one of these Bali AirBnbs.

Getting around Ubud…

As I mentioned previously, if you stay in central Ubud you won’t need to sort transport unless you are unable to walk. Exploring the town can be done easily in a day and you’ll only need transport when heading afield for activities or landscapes such as the Tegallalang rice paddy or Mount Batur.

If you fancy getting local or you are staying just outside of town, then hiring a motorbike or scooter is a great idea. It’s not too hard to drive in Ubud compared to the main roads in Bali, so it’s a great and very cheap option that will prove super convenient and efficient for exploring Ubud and the surrounding areas.

You can hire a scooter (that fits 2 people on) for around 60,000IDR a day (about £3.50).

Here are 20 travel tips you MUST know before you go to Bali!

Here’s a complete guide to Seminyak, Bali.

How much should I budget for Ubud?

See my guide to budgeting for Bali here  and have a look at how much meals and activities will cost you!

SEE ALL MY YOUTUBE TRAVEL VIDEOS HERE

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

For advice on travelling on a budget, check out  these top tips! 

Restaurants I loved in Ubud…

The food in Bali is my favourite in the entire world.  Hands down. Straight up. Without a shadow of a doubt.

They have the most gorgeous selections of tropical fruits, raw produce, superfood specialities and remedies. You won’t walk far without a ‘raw cafe’ coming into view and this means you can eat the yummiest food in the entire world and feel incredible for it afterwards. What’s even better is the prices. Sure, a lot of the ‘raw cafes’ have Western owners, but prices are still cheap compared to the likes of Australia and London, and with it, you get their incredible knowledge and cooking skills.

In between these dreamy cafes, you will find an abundance of Warungs (snack huts), where you can indulge in the finest Indonesian cuisine too. A combination of Nasi Gorengs and dragonfruit açai bowls is what I call heaven.

Some of my favourites in Ubud for lunch or dinner:

• Raw Food Cafe and Tonic Bar
• Seeds of Life
• The All Coconut Cafe
• Wayans Warung (great local Indonesian dishes)

Coffee spots I love in Ubud:

• Revive coffee (need a scooter to get to it)
• Temu coffee (they serve with Oatly too!)

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

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

The best things to do in Ubud…

As well as incredible food, landscapes and culture, Ubud is a hub of activity and adventure that will keep you occupied for days.

During your time in Ubud consider…

• Walking the Campuhan Ridge Walk through the rice fields.
• Climbing Mount Batur

I highly recommend doing this at sunrise and going to the hot springs nearby afterwards.

See my  18 hiking tips for beginners here.

See my Mount Batur adventure here.

• Joining a cycling tour of the rice paddies.

Here’s a complete guide to Uluwatu, Bali.

• Taking an Indonesian cooking class.

Here’s a complete guide to Sanur, Bali.

• Wandering around the Ubud market.

Here’s a complete guide to Canggu, Bali.

• Visiting one of Ubud’s temples.

Including: Pura Taman, Gunung Kawi Sebatu, Gunung Kawi, Goa Gaja, Tirta Empul.

• Taking a yoga class at Radiantly Alive or The Yoga Barn.

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

• Exploring the work and landscape of Tegallalang Rice Field.

• Hiring Hari for the day and having him show you all the local spots.

We had Hari as our tour guide for the day and he took us through all the rice fields, explaining and showing us all that grows in the wild and all the natural remedies this island provides to its people. He is an absolute sunshine of a human and you can book him and his car for a day of tailored adventures.

Drop him a WhatsApp on +62 813-3855-5633 or Instagram @hari_made_

Send him my love!

Before you visit Bali, check out my  22 top tips for travelling in Southeast Asia.

• Checking out the cheeky monkeys in Ubud’s Monkey Forest.

Make sure you take your sunglasses off of your head, secure your bag and hold on to your cameras!

Here’s the ultimate Bali bucket list, with the best things to do in Bali!

Want to know more about Bali?  Check out my complete guide to visiting Bali here .

Have you been to Ubud?

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

Love as always + happy adventuring,

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

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

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

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Ubud travel blog — the ultimate ubud travel guide & what to do in ubud for first-timers.

Ubud is the top famous destination in Bali. When it comes to Bali, people think that there is only the sea, but really, Bali has everything: forests, mountains, sea, magnificent Hindus temples… To me, Ubud is so beautiful, it is not natural that tourists like to come to Ubud so much. Ubud – Peaceful but not boring. So, is Ubud worth visiting, what to do in Ubud, how to go to Ubud and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Ubud Bali for the first-time? Let’s check out our Ubud travel blog (Ubud Bali travel blog, Ubud Bali blog, Ubud blog) with the fullest Ubud travel guide (Ubud guide, Ubud Bali guide, Ubud Bali travel guide, guide to Ubud Bali) from how to get to Ubud, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit, what to eat and top things to do in Ubud to find out the answer!

• Ubud bali travel guide — 5 activities you should not miss while visiting Ubud, Bali
• Bali things to do — Top 10 Bali activities & attractions you should try
• 8 best & top things to do in Ubud, Bali
• When is the best time to visit Bali? — The best, worst, cheapest time & what is the best month to travel to Bali
• Bali itinerary 8 days — How to spend 8 days in Bali (8 days 7 nights in Bali) pefectly?

Ubud is beautiful with the gentle, peaceful life, Ubud is lovely with the friendliness of its people, Ubud is beautiful in its fresh atmosphere, beautiful in its cool year-round temperature, beautiful by its ancient architecture. In short, it’s fine for me to live in Ubud forever (but I’ll miss Vietnamese food).

The only minus point of Ubud is the food. Ubud cuisine is similar to Bali. It is not too diverse, if not a bit boring :D.

Ubud blog: When to come?

To know good time to come to Bali in general and Ubud in particular, I had a detailed post, you can see View .

Ubud travel guide: How to get to Ubud?

Ubud is about 1~1 hour 30 minutes drive from Bali airport (Ngurah Rai International Airport) about 35~40km. To getting to Ubud, you usually go by Taxi or Grab, Gojek, transfer services or a private car. I don’t recommend going by taxi because it’s often a rip off, overcharging and the price is also expensive.

Online taxi is the number 1 choice, the cheapest but also the most difficult to call because if you pay attention, you will see a lot of signs banning online taxis. If you stand at a traditional taxi parking and catch an online taxi, they will not dare to park to pick you up, they are afraid of being… punched. It’s a truth, I’m not kidding.

I heard the online driver say that. It seems to be really scary because when I begged for a long time, he dared to come in to pick me up, not forgetting to instruct “whoever asks, say I’m a private driver, the hotel car comes to pick me up”. When he came to pick me up, a traditional taxi driver asked the driver, looked at him, his face turned pale, and his body trembled, really poor. At that time, I thought, if my driver was beaten, I would jump out to protect him, so I was always ready to fight =))))).

But fortunately the people here are not as weird as ours, so my online driver said for a while, the traditional taxi driver also believed and let it go. Back to commuting, I recommend finding a private driver.

Before going just talk to the driver via his Facebook or Whatsapp about the destination, price, pick up time is ok. I went from the airport to Ubud, the driver took 250,000 IDR (first he asked 350,000). It is important to always bargain, take the price at Grab as a standard.

This is my driver contact – he’s quite good, but sometimes he likes to shoot the breeze too much =)))

I Made Rudi Awan: https://www.facebook.com/imade.rudiawan

In addition, I want to suggest you a very good transfer service from Klook. It’s also a private transfer service, you will be picked up right at the airport, no need to go to outside, the price is also quite pleasant. You can refer to here .

You also need a SIM card or portable WiFi device , it’s easily to buy right at the airport or at home before you go.

Ubud travel blog: Where to stay in Ubud?

Ubud has many good, beautiful and cheap places to stay. If you have a good budget, you can find houses in the forest (very nice for virtual living, taking pictures).

If you want to stay cheap, just stay around the center of Ubud for convenience. Also, many people suggest Tegallalang Rice Terrace, but I find it quite far from central Ubud.

The hotel I stayed Dewangga Ubud ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ). The price is quite affordable, not too far from the center, about 5 minutes walk to the Ubud central market, the room is nothing special, not too clean but not too dirty, the owner is friendly.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• The Sankara Resort Ubud by Pramana ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Kaamala Resort Ubud ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• The Udaya Resorts & Spa ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Adiwana Suweta ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Adiwana Unagi Suites ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• The Kayon Resort ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Adiwana Bisma Ubud ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Check out more top and best hotels in Ubud on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Ubud Bali blog: Dining in Ubud

Like some previous articles, I just summarize a few notes. Food in Ubud is also cheap, it is a bit more expensive than other places. If you want to eat cheap, just go to some restaurants named Warung to come and eat.

On average, a meal is about 25,000~30,000 IDR/person, adding drink is about 50,000 IDR. The downside is that the food doesn’t have many options, mainly chicken dishes, it will get bored very quickly.

Option 2 is to eat at restaurants – the food is diverse, a little cleaner, but the price is also quite high because it’s mainly focus on tourist. On average, 2~3 times more than Warung, so if you’re poor like me, you’ll only eat in occasionally, otherwise you’ll just eat instant noodles at the end of the trip :)))

In addition, I heard the driver Awan say that Bali has very famous specialty called Babi Guling (roasted suckling pig), and Ubud is the place where the best and most expensive Babi Guling. But unfortunately, I didn’t know soon so I didn’t try to try it. Listening to Awan say, the price is about 80,000~90,000 IDR/serving.

Ubud guide: Where to go, what to do in Ubud and things to do in Ubud

I will list here some must-go places and things to do in Ubud.

Near the center of Ubud

Sacred monkey forest sanctuary.

Address: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia Hours: 9AM–5PM Ticket price: 70,000 IDR

Monkey forest in Ubud is very famous. Right next to the center of Ubud is a forest, a temple of monkeys. Forests and trees are also typical in Bali, so many trees that make you always feel cool. Exploring the monkey forest is an experience not to be missed in Ubud, but you must be especially careful with the Monkeys, they can stealing things, glasses,…

The day I went, there was a monkey who tried to steal my wife’s belongings and failed because I prevented it, he bared his teeth and turned to chase me, demanding to bite.

In Vietnam, I don’t mind giving it a shot, monkey :)). From the monkey forest walking down, there is a waterfall, a beautiful bridge like in a fairy tale.

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)

Address: Bedulu, Blahbatuh, Gianyar Regency, Bali, Indonesia Hours: Open 24 hours Ticket price: 50,000 IDR

Because it’s famous in Ubud, I just came to tell you, it’s nothing. In addition to the surrounding scenery, there is a small cave inside with 3 altars (probably worshiping the elephant god).

In general, the tickets are not cheap, but the visit is not very impressive :)). You note that most of the temple tickets include free Sarong, so anyone who invites to rent, you should ignore.

Tegenungan and Kanto Lampo Waterfall

Ticket price: 20,000 IDR

Tegenungan Waterfall (Address: Jl. Ir. Sutami, Kemenuh, Kec. Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80581, Indonesia/Hours: 6:30AM–6:30PM) is not the most beautiful waterfall, but it is the most attractive destination, probably because it is quite spectacular and easy to reach. Tegenungan Waterfall is right near Ubud, about 20~30 minutes by car (10km). However, a common thing of visiting the waterfall is that you should not come in the rainy season because if there is a flash flood, it is very dangerous. Tegenungan waterfall is very beautiful, the water flow is very strong, standing 15m away is also wet by steam :)).

To reach the waterfall, you will have to climb down quite deep and it is quite tiring to climb up :)). Should wear a bathing suit, this place is also very nice spot to take pictures. There is also Kanto Lampo waterfall (Address: Jl. Kaliasem lingk.kelod kangin, Beng, Kec. Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80513, Indonesia/Hours: 7AM–5:30PM) closer to Ubud, but few people suggest coming because it wasn’t the prettiest, I was going to go at first but lack of time so I gave up.

Campuhan Ridge Walk

Address: Kelusa, Payangan, Jl. Raya Campuhan, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia Hours: Open 24 hours Ticket price: Free

It is not correct to say far from the center, taking the Ubud market as a landmark, Campuhan Ridge Walk is about 1.5~2km away. If you can rent a bicycle, cycling here is quite enjoyable. I walked from the hotel take a long time and when I got back I was exhausted, looking for a taxi to return and swear there was no taxi. There are a few taxi stands but prices are expensive. From the taxi stand to my hotel just 1km but it demanded 120,000 IDR.

They calculate that the return distance, they have to go further (OMG, the taxi driver also calculates his way back =))). You should come in the morning for cool air, in the afternoon, after 3pm to avoid the heat, but don’t come too late because if in the dark to take pictures is not good but mosquito bites =)))).

Far away from Ubud

Tukad cepung waterfall.

Address: Central parkir waterfall tukad cepung, Jl. Tembuku, Tembuku, Kec. Tembuku, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80671, Indonesia Hours: 8AM–6PM Ticket price: 15,000 IDR

Cepung Waterfall is not near Ubud, but if you have time, you should go because it is very beautiful and not too crowded like Tegenungan. Cepung Waterfall is not majestic but what makes it beautiful is that it’s in a cave, so you look at the pictures to make it easier to understand hehee.

Pura Tirta Empul

Address: Jl. Tirta, Manukaya, Kec. Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80552, Indonesia Hours: 8AM–6PM Ticket price: 50,000 IDR

Tirta Empul Temple is famous in Bali for its sacredness, it is said to be very sacred. People often come here to bathe in the sacred water. As in the picture people are bathing in natural water (spring water flowing from mountain, very cold).

Each faucet that comes out has a different prayer meaning (health, money, luck,…) and often people here they queue to be washed, showered at all faucets. They even bring their children to take a bath, but because of the long queue, the water was cold, so everyone was shivering and feeling sorry for them.

I say shower, but actually sprinkle water on my head, wash my face, not bathe regularly because it’s a sacred water source, so no one would pee in the pond or do anything stupid :v, there are still fish in the pond.

In addition, I came on the full moon day of the month, so people went to pray crowded, but it was empty on weekdays.

Note that the entrance fee includes free sarong (to wrap your body), but if you want to take a bath, you have to rent another sarong for 10,000 IDR, if you rent a locker, add 15,000 IDR.

Tegallalang Rice Terrace

Address: Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561, Indonesia Hours: 8AM–6PM Ticket price: 10,000 IDR

I don’t know I have to pay for a ticket but the driver take us to the parking lot and asked 10,000 IDR each person. Tegallalang Rice Terrace is a very famous terraced field in Bali. But coming here is quite unlucky because like I went in early May, the rice season has turned yellow and some of the fields have been harvested, so it doesn’t look very nice.

But to be honest, if it’s the most beautiful season, the terraced fields here still have to call the fields in the Northwest of Vietnam by “uncle”, rice terraces in Mu Cang Chai in Vietnam is ten thousand times more beautiful. In Tegallalang, there are some swing activities and take pictures in the bird’s nests.

I didn’t play, so I don’t know the price. On the way through the fields, there will be farmers who ask to donate to the box because you will pass through their field or cross their bridge.

Hotels in Tegallalang also have many beautiful hotels like movies. But for me personally, this is a destination not to be missed because… it’s famous. But the impression is not very impressive.

Zen hideaway

Address: Jalan Dewi Saraswati, Banjar Tegalkuning, Bongkasa Pertiwi, Abiansemal, Badung Regency, Bali 80352, Indonesia

If you research, look at photos of Bali, you will definitely see pictures taken in bird’s nests, swings in the woods, terraces… Zen hideaway is the most famous place for those.

I am not interested in these games, my wife has also tried swinging in Nusa Penida, the nest is everywhere in Bali so it is not really attractive and ignore this. That’s why there are no pictures here in addition some in the internet.

In addition to above things to do and where to go, you can also go to the Ubud market to buy souvenirs, take a stroll around Ubud, hang out at some bars to explore Ubud nightlife…

In summary, Ubud is a destination to stay for about 3, 4 days to feel the peace here. Rest assured that there are not many places of interest but still you will not get bored. If Ubud had a delicious cuisine like Vietnam, I’d forget the way back :))

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Bali you can refer to

• Bali All Time Favourites Private Day Trip
• Bali Private UNESCO Heritage Sites Trip
• Nusa Penida Full Day Trip from Bali
• Bali Swing and Waterfall Full Day Tour in Ubud
• Bali Instagram Tour
• Private Ngurah Rai Airport Transfers (DPS) for Bali
• Private Sightseeing Custom Tour for Bali
• Tanah Lot Sunset Tour
• Private Sightseeing Custom Tour for Ubud & Surroundings
• Bali Private Car Charter
• 3G/4G Prepaid SIM Card (DPS Airport Pick Up) for Bali
• 4G Portable WiFi for Bali
• 4G LTE WiFi (MNL Delivery) for Asia

Are you looking for more Bali travel guide and top things to do in Bali: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Bali itinerary 8 days — How to spend 8 days in Bali (8 days 7 nights in Bali) pefectly? And more here .

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Asia , Indonesia , Itineraries · October 9, 2020

Ubud Itinerary: The Perfect 3 Days in Ubud

With all the things to do and see, planning the perfect Ubud itinerary can be quite overwhelming. Follow my detailed 3 days Ubud itinerary to discover the best things to do in Ubud – from temples to waterfalls to rice fields and more!

If you are planning a trip to Bali, you’re definitely going to want to spend some time in Ubud! Home to lush jungles dotted with waterfalls, centuries-old temples, bustling markets, and scenic rice fields, it’s not hard to see why Ubud is such a popular go-to spot! 

Located in the mountainous regions of central Bali, Ubud is the island’s cultural hub. Despite being one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island, Ubud has retained its charm and is just the place to get away from the party crowds of Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

In this 3 days Ubud Itinerary, I’ve narrowed down the top things to do in Ubud. I’ve also included top tips to help you navigate this gorgeous town, when to visit, where to stay and much more. With that said, feel free to tailor this guide to suit your needs and preferences.

Ready to plan an epic Ubud itinerary? Read along to discover all of Ubud’s best bits and find out what to do in Ubud in 3 days!

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

3 Days in Ubud Essentials

Before you visit Ubud, read my super detailed one week Bali itinerary . It includes all the must-see sights and is filled with useful tips to help you plan your visit. Also, read my guide on Ubud’s best restaurants to find the most delicious grub in town and this guide to Ubud’s best waterfalls ! 

Along with the tips above, here are a few more things you’ll need to guarantee an epic Ubud itinerary. 

• Find the best hotels, villas, resorts, or backpackers in Ubud here . Or check out my super detailed guide on the best places to stay in Ubud .
• Grab a  pocket WIFI  or  4G SIM card  for pick-up at the airport to ensure a seamless internet connection. 
• Book a transfer from the airport  to save time and get to your accommodation, stress-free.
• It’s always hot in Bali, so remember to include light, breathable clothes in your packing list . Make sure also to bring  sunscreen ,  mosquito repellant , a  travel adapter , and a small travel umbrella with you.  
• Visiting all the gorgeous temples is one of the top things to do in Ubud. With that said, it’s important to be respectful. Most temples require wearing a sarong and sometimes even a sash. While it is possible to rent sarongs at most temples, it’s a good idea to have one handy with you.  Here’s a great one . 
• If you don’t feel like bothering with all the nitty-gritty logistics,  this tour  is just the answer. It includes all the highlights, and you won’t have to plan a thing!

How to get to Ubud from Denpasar International Airport

Ngurah Rai International Airport, also called Denpasar Airport, is the main gateway to Bali, and has taxis and buses ready to transport you to all corners of the island. 

Ubud is located 38km north of the airport, and it takes 1-2 hours (depending on the traffic) to reach the center of town. To get to Ubud, you could take a taxi, connecting bus, or private transfer. With that said, the  easiest and fastest way to get to Ubud from Denpasar airport  is with a private transfer. If you haven’t booked one directly through your hotel, book a  discounted transfer here.

Travel Tips: There is no direct bus to Ubud, which means you’ll need to take two different buses to reach the town. Also, if you opt to take a taxi, make sure to book one via the official taxi counter to avoid being ripped off. 

How to get around during your Ubud Itinerary

While it’s easy to explore the center of town on foot, you’ll need transport further afield to access all the beautiful places in Ubud. Here are the best ways to get around.

SCOOTER:  The easiest way to get around Ubud is by scooter. You can  rent a scooter  for next to nothing a day, and it’s a fun way to explore Bali’s interior at your leisure. With that said, though, I only recommend this option is you are accustomed to driving a moped and have an international driver’s license to do so. 

PRIVATE DRIVER:  If you’re not comfortable on a scooter,  booking a private charter  is your best bet. The great part about having a driver is that you won’t need to worry about navigating Bali’s chaotic streets or figuring out all the nitty-gritty logistics. Instead, you can sit back and enjoy the scenery while still having the luxury of planning your itinerary. Packages usually cover 10 hours, so you could easily do as much (or as little) as you like! 

SHUTTLE BUS:  The Kura Kura tourist shuttle bus is great budget-friendly if you want to see a bit more of Bali. There are eight routes, and it’s easy to  book 1,2, or 3 day passes . Just keep in mind that traveling times are likely to be much longer. Find out more about the routes/ schedules  here . 

TAXI:  Taxis can be pricey in Ubud. Moreover, Bali’s drivers are notorious for ripping tourists off. If you must take a taxi, go with Blue Bird . They are  the most reputable taxi service on the island. While  GoJek  and  Grab  are popular ride-sharing services in Bali, it is usually a bit harder to book a ride with either of them in Ubud. 

ALSO READ: The Perfect 2 Week Indonesia Itinerary for First Timers .

When to Visit Ubud for 3 days or more

Like elsewhere in Bali, Ubud has a hot tropical climate, and it is often quite humid. Since Ubud is in a mountainous region, the town is blessed with slightly cooler temperatures. With that said, expect average temperatures in the upper twenties to mid-thirties throughout the year. 

The  best time to visit Ubud is during the dry season , which runs  from May to September . The warmest month in Ubud is October, and the coolest month is July. July to August  is the peak season and it can get crowded quickly. Luckily, there’s lots to see and do in Ubud so it’s quite easy to get away from the crowds. 

The  rainy season starts in October and runs through to April , with December, January, and February seeing the most rainfall. Since frequent downpours aren’t uncommon, it’s best to avoid planning an Ubud trip during this time. 

Ubud Accommodation: Best Places to Stay

Whether you have 3 days in Ubud or many, the town has stacks of accommodation options to match all kinds of budgets. If you plan on getting around on foot, it’s best to stay somewhere central close to the markets, shops, restaurants, and bars. Of course, for those looking to unwind in idyllic settings, there are tons of secluded places to stay at, too. Here are my top recommendations on where to stay during your Ubud 3 day itinerary.

For the ultimate luxury experience, you don’t need to look much further than  Maya Ubud Resort & Spa . Located only 30 minutes’ drive from central Ubud, this 5-star resort is tucked away from Ubud’s chaotic streets, yet close enough to all the action.

Perched atop a hillside, overlooking a lush river valley, the Maya arguably has one of the most beautiful settings imaginable! The resort boasts gorgeous Balinese-styled villas, a luxurious spa, a fitness center, and two shimmering pools in addition to the picture-perfect scenery. Make sure to order the delectable floating breakfast and enjoy a flower bath during your stay!  Check rates or read reviews here .

Affordable Luxury

If you’re looking for a posh stay at surprisingly affordable rates,  Adiwana Unagi Suites Hotel  ticks all the boxes of the perfect base.

Featuring elegant, spacious rooms overlooking the lush jungle and neatly-kept gardens, Adiwana Hotel is a tranquil oasis located less than 2km from central Ubud. There’s also a swimming pool, spa, yoga studio, fitness center, and onsite golf course to while away the time.  Check availability & rates here.

Located less than 1km from the Ubud Traditional Art Market,  Kano Sari Resort Villa  is the perfect base for mid-range travelers looking for a luxe stay without the hefty price tag.

With friendly staff, top-quality facilities, and six beautifully modern Balinese-style rooms, Kano Villa offers a peaceful stay in a beautiful setting. There’s also a lovely outdoor pool with a bar, a souvenir shop, and many restaurants nearby!  See rates or read reviews here .

Located just a short stroll from Ubud’s lively streets,  Desak Putu Putera  is the ideal choice for budget travelers looking for something more than a hostel.

The rooms feature simple Balinese finishes and are spacious and clean. The lovely garden featuring a glimmering pool is the perfect spot to unwind after a day out exploring all of Ubud’s highlights. Do try the banana pancakes for breakfast! They are delicious!  See availability and rates here .

In a rush? Save this Ubud Bali itinerary to read later.

The Perfect 3 Days Ubud Itinerary – Quick Overview

Ubud packs the perfect mix of culture, architecture, adrenaline-pumping activities, natural scenery, and delicious food. It’s also home to some of Indonesia’s most fascinating landmarks ! While I recommend the bare minimum of 3 days in Ubud, you should definitely stay longer if you can! Here’s a quick look at what’s covered in this Ubud itinerary.

Day 1 in Ubud:  Wander along the Campuhan Ridge Walk, then explore Ubud’s colorful streets and temples by popping in at Ubud Palace, Ubud Water Temple, Ubud Art Market, and the Monkey Forest. 

Ubud Day 2:  Catch the sunrise atop Mount Batur, then head out to the Floating Water Temple and end the day relaxing at a Spa.

Day 3 in Ubud:  Visit the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces and Puri Tirta Empul Temple, then cool off at Tegenungan Waterfall, and finally join a fun Balinese Cooking Class.

Ubud Itinerary Day 1: Explore Ubud Center

Kick start your 3 days Ubud itinerary by exploring all the colorful streets of Ubud center. Enjoy a gentle walk about, pop by temples, rice fields, bustling markets, and even a forest full of cheeky monkeys! 

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes because you’ve got much ground to cover today! 

Campuhan Ridge Walk

The first stop on your Ubud itinerary is the lovely Campuhan Ridge Walk. Don’t worry, it’s a very mellow hike and only takes about 1 hour to complete. What really makes this trail so special is that it’s a great introduction to Ubud’s ridiculously beautiful scenery. Along the way, you’ll have scenic views of lush hills, sweeping rice fields, and swaying palms in the distance. Can you imagine a more idyllic way to start your day?

Oh, and travel tip – If time permits, come back at the day’s close for one of the best sunsets in Bali !

Visit the Ubud Palace

Next up on your Ubud 3 days itinerary, head over to the Ubud Palace. As one of the most iconic sights in town, the Ubud Palace (or Puri Saren Agung) is a must-see in Ubud. 

Located a short stroll from the Ubud Art Market, it is a great place to get a quick glimpse into the royal family’s former daily life and Balinese culture. It’s also the perfect locale to snap some colorful pictures of the intricate architecture and lovely courtyards. Only a small portion of the palace is open to the public, so it does get crowded quickly. Make sure to visit early before the crowds set in. 

Alternatively, come in the evening to enjoy the traditional dance performances held here. Tickets for the show cost IDR 100,000 and can be bought at the entrance. The show starts at 7:30 pm and lasts 1.5 hours. 

Explore the Water Palace

A short stroll from Ubud Palace, you’ll find Saraswati Temple, also known as the Water Palace. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Ubud, and for very good reason. 

Boasting beautifully intricate architecture and deep-rooted history, Saraswati is an important religious site in Bali revered for its beautiful setting. Besides being dedicated to the Hindu goddess of knowledge and arts, perhaps the most striking feature of this temple is the tranquil pond filled with hundreds of blooming lotus flowers.

After strolling the grounds, don’t miss grabbing a bite or enjoying a smoothie at the Lotus Cafe, right in front of the temple. 

Shop till you drop at Ubud Market

No visit to Ubud would be complete without browsing the Ubud Market. Running along Jalan Raya , just across from the Water Palace, the market is the perfect place to pick up a few bargains, practice your haggling skills and enjoy a gentle walkabout.

There are tons of cute shops, stalls, and vendors to peruse. Moreover, you can find just about anything from colorful handicrafts and bags, to artworks, clothes and Bali souvenirs here!

Wander through the Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Visiting the Monkey Forest Sanctuary is one of the best things to do in Ubud. Set in a lush jungle full of towering trees, moss-covered statues, and three Hindi temples, it is a great place to quickly immerse yourself in nature right in the heart of Ubud.

Besides the incredible setting, there is yet another reason to visit here. And that is to see troops of cheeky macaques monkeys up-close! Visiting the Monkey Forest is a fun trip for the whole family and definitely deserves a spot on you list of things to do in Bali with kids . Just make sure to read the  safety guidelines  posted at the entrance. It’s also a good idea to  bring absolutely nothing with you  when you visit here as the monkeys are notorious for snatching visitors’ belongings!  

If you’re not  joining a day tour , remember to bring IDR 80,000 with for the entrance fee.

Ubud Itinerary Day 2: Hiking and Temples 

On day 2 of your 3 day Ubud itinerary, get up early to catch the best sunrise in Ubud! Afterward, explore the floating temple and finally treat yourself to a pamper session at a posh spa!   

Do the Mount Batur Sunrise Trek

If there is one thing that should be on any Bali bucket list, it’s a hike up Mount Batur! While you’ll need to wake up ridiculously early to do this hike (think 1-2 am), it will arguably be one of the highlights on your 3 days Ubud itinerary! 

Mount Batur is an active volcano with a large crater at the top and located about an hour’s drive from Ubud. The area is blessed with stunning natural scenery, amazing views, and is, of course, the best sunrise viewing spot in all of Ubud! 

Before you attempt this hike though, you should know that it’s quite a challenging trek, and it takes about 2 hours to reach the summit. With that said, though, once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with picture-perfect views no matter which way you turn! The best part? You’ll get to watch the epic sunrise as you enjoy a delicious breakfast in an insanely stunning setting! There are lots of tour options available, but this  Mount Batur trekking experience  rocks!

Just a heads-up: I strongly advise only attempting this hike if you are confident in your hiking abilities and fit enough to do so. Also,  wear sturdy footwear  or even better  hiking boots  as the trail is rocky and slippery! 

Explore Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Next up on your Ubud itinerary is one of Bali’s most iconic temples — Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, often also called Bedugul Temple.

With majestic mountains creating an epic backdrop and a glimmering lake, Bedugul Temple has one of the most beautiful settings you’ll ever see. Besides getting lost in the lush greenery, there are also several courtyards packed to the brim with antique statues and shrines. But even on top of that, the star attraction here is undoubtedly the 17th-century temple built right on Beratan lake’s edge. If you happen to visit during high tide, you’ll get to see the temple “floating” on the water! 

The temple entrance fee is IDR 50,000, and it takes approximately 1h30 to get there. It’s easy to get there with a transfer or on a  private guided tour . 

Relax at a Spa 

After a day out exploring all of Ubud’s attractions, it’s time to unwind with a lavish pamper session. And the best way to do just that is with a relaxing spa treatment! The best part? Ubud is jam-packed with gorgeous spas where it’s easy to get anything from a traditional full-body Balinese massage, facial, body treatment, and a manicure or pedicure. 

For the ultimate relaxation experience,  book a spa treatment  at the uber-luxe Maya Resort. Some of their best selling packages include a chocolate body mask, Balinese massage and a riverside massage with a gorgeous view! 

If you’re looking for a few more options, consider one of these best Ubud spas:

• Forest Spa :  Rejuvenate your body, mind, and soul amidst lush jungle. Afterward, snap a selfie in the hotel’s impressive jungle swing!  Read reviews here . 
• Chapung Wellness Spa  offers a full range of treatments amid the most tranquil natural surroundings imaginable. Afterward, head to the poolside bar to catch an epic sunset and cool off in the gorgeous infinity pool.  Book a pampering session here . 
• For something a bit more traditional,  book a massage  at the charming Ubud Traditional Spa . 

Ubud Itinerary Day 3: Rice Terraces, Waterfalls, and Relaxation

The final day of your Ubud itinerary is all about nature and relaxation! Wander through Ubud’s dreamy rice terraces, drop by Ubud’s best waterfalls, visit the “holy water temple”, and finally end the day with a fun cooking class! 

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

On your last day in Ubud, head over to one of the most beautiful places in Ubud – the Tegalalang Rice Terrace. Make sure to get an early start to beat the heat and the crowds! 

Tagalalang is a popular spot among Instagrammers, sunrise chasers, and nature lovers. And for very good reason. It’s an extremely beautiful setting home to cascading rice fields, swaying palm trees, and lush jungle. Besides all the awesome photos to take, it’s also a great place to take a stroll. Afterward, be sure to grab a bite or freshly cracked coconut at one of the cute cafes overlooking the valley.

Just a head’s up, you’ll need to pay IDR 20,000 to enjoy this little slice of paradise. As already mentioned, come first thing because there are always a lot of people here! Oh and, if your schedule is flexible, the Bali swing is a cool add-on to do here too.

Visit the Pura Tirta Empul Temple 

Not too far from the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, you’ll find Pura Tirta Empul. Often also called the “Holy Spring Water Temple,” Tirta Empul is a sprawling complex housing several soothing pools revered for its holy waters and intricately sculpted spouting fountains. It’s a huge must-do in Ubud, so make sure not to miss it during your 3 day itinerary! 

Thousands of pilgrims and devotees come from near and far every year to do spiritual cleansing in the holy waters found here. While it is possible to  join a cleansing ceremony , make sure to check the procedure with your guide first. Oh, and remember to bring a spare set of clothes and a towel! Like elsewhere in Ubud, you’ll need to wear a sarong to enter the grounds. If you forgot to bring one along, you can rent one at the temple’s entrance. 

The admission fee for Pura Tirta Empul Temple is IDR 15,000, and it is open from 8 am to 6 pm. 

Tegenungan Waterfall 

You cannot visit Ubud without checking out at least one of its gorgeous waterfalls . And, Tegenungan is hands-down a must-see! 

The waterfall is 15m tall, and it’s a great place to take a refreshing dip in the cool waters, take some incredible photos, unwind, or simply take in all the beautiful greenery. Don’t forget your  camera , hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses! 

The entrance fee for Tegenungan is IDR 20,000, and it’s best to visit here as early as possible to enjoy the falls sans the crowds. If you prefer to see the falls with a guide, here’s a fun  full-day tour  that includes a few other must-see spots in Ubud. 

Travel Tip:  For those looking for something a bit more off-the-beaten-path, this  full-day hidden waterfalls tour  is just the answer! 

There are stacks of other incredible waterfalls in Ubud, so if your itinerary is flexible, here are a few other epic falls to check out. 

• Air Terjun Tibumana
• Goa Rang Reng Waterfall
• Manuaba Waterfall
• Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
• Pengempu Waterfall
• Sumampan Waterfall
• Leke Leke Waterfall

Ubud Cooking Class

If you love cooking or simply keen on learning a new skill,  joining a cooking class  is the perfect way to end your 3 days Ubud itinerary! 

Besides creating and sampling nine signature Balinese dishes, you’ll learn quite a bit about the history of each dish, and get to choose your ingredients at the local market! The class lasts about 5 hours, and it is loads of fun!

Travel tip:  Want to take your culinary skills (and Instagram) to the next level? Check out this  authentic cooking class  held at one of Ubud’s top-notch eateries!

Need more options for your Ubud itinerary?

If you still have some free time during your 3 days in Ubud, here are a few more options to add to your list of Ubud things to do:

• Explore the Elephant Cave : Goa Gajah is a beautiful little temple revered for its unique stone carvings and cave paintings located just on Ubud’s outskirts. Make sure to snap a selfie with the elephant carved into the cave’s rock face at the entrance, which is believed to date back to the 11 th century! Here’s a  great tour  that includes a few other hotspots like Hidden Canyon, Tegenungan Waterfall, and more!
• Bali Swing:  The Bali swing is one of the most instagrammable places in Ubud! It’s always crowded, so make sure to  book a ticket  well in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Museum Puri Lukisan:  A lovely little museum housing traditional Balinese artworks, beautiful woodcarvings, and several exhibition rooms to browse. Admission is IDR 50,000, and the museum is open from 9 am – 6 pm.  Grab a ticket here to skip the lines.
• Take a yoga class:  Yoga is quite a popular thing to do in Ubud. There are lots of retreats to choose from, ranging in length and difficulty level.  This one , in particular, is quite a hotspot.
• Neka Art Museum:  Neka Museum is a popular spot among art enthusiasts. The museum houses various modern and ancient pieces, including paintings, jewelry, metalwork, and textiles. 
• Snack your way through Gianyar Night Market:  If you love a good night market, then don’t miss this one! Located on Ubud’s outskirts, Gianyar Night Market is a great place to browse, fill your belly with delicious street food, and shop for quirky Bali souvenirs.  

3 Days Ubud Itinerary Conclusion

As you can see, there are many amazing places to visit and things to do in Ubud! I hope this Ubud itinerary will come in handy when planning your trip to this beautiful part of Bali!

That wraps up this Ubud 3 day itinerary! Have you visited Ubud yet? Feel free to share your top tips, best things to do, places to stay, and everything in between below! 

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4D3N Bali Itinerary — The Ultimate Ubud Getaway Guide

Get to know this quieter, but just as exciting, part of Bali!

Good food, cheap flights, and gorgeous villas, Bali needs no introduction to Singaporeans. Since the country reopened to travellers once again, we decided we’d explore further north in Ubud to escape from the crowds.

Read more: One-Week Bali Itinerary — The Lesser Known Side Most Tourists Miss

Pre-trip Essentials

Pre-departure test: Not required from Singapore since 18 May 2022 Visa: Singaporeans can visit visa-free for 30 days Transport: Most tourists rent a car or bikes ( moped ) from ~S$10/day or get around with ride hailing services. For budget travellers, local buses are also available — eight buses that run across Bali costing from Rp20,000 (~S$1.90) a trip. Connectivity: XL Axiata, 15GB for Rp250,000 (~S$23) — available at the airport after immigration [UPDATE] Tourism tax: Starting 14 Feb 2024, all foreigners entering Bali via land or domestic flights (including children) have to pay  Rp150,000 (~S$12.80) in tourism tax . You can do so via the Love Bali website or app before the trip.

Accommodation in Ubud

Located in Kenderan Village, we stayed at Aksari Ubud Resort that’s 25 minutes away from Central Ubud. The resort comes with an infinity pool that overlooks a green valley and a lush forest.

And, compared to bustling areas like Canggu and Seminyak, it’s relatively cheaper to stay in Ubud!

Cost: From ~S$225/night (up to 2 pax) How to get there: 15min drive from Tegallang Rice Terrace ( Google Maps )

*Pro-tip: Quote “CITIXPLORE” for up to S$100 off Traveloka app bookings with Citi Credit Cards.

Read more: Ultimate Bali Accommodation Guide — Value for Money Hostels to Affordably Luxurious Villas

Day 1: Explore Ubud’s Neighbourhood

We planned our itinerary to arrive in Bali in the morning, giving us plenty of time to explore Central Ubud after checking in.

The Ubud Royal Palace (Puri Saren Agung)

This popular landmark in Central Ubud was built in the 1900s for the Ubud royal family. Tour the palace grounds and you’ll find lots of intricate art carved into the walls and doorways of this historic site.

*Pro-tip: Head there in the evening for the traditional Balinese dance performance at 7:30PM daily (Rp100,000, ~S$9)

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 8AM – 7PM How to get there: 1min walk from Ubud Art Market ( Google Maps )

Saraswati Temple

This temple is dedicated to Saraswati, a Hindu goddess that inspires creativity. The name loosely translates to She Who Has an Abundance of Water , which could be why the temple is also known as the Ubud Water Palace.

Origin story aside, this place of worship is beautiful to see. The lily ponds leading to the temple make it a popular photo spot too.

*Pro-tip: Enjoy an iced frappuccino at the two-storey Starbucks by the entrance where you’ll have an aerial view of the temple grounds.

Photo credit: Iris via Google Reviews

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 7AM – 5PM How to get there: 3min walk from Ubud Royal Palace ( Google Maps )

Campuhan Ridge Walk

Wrap up day one with a quick stroll at Campuhan Ridge Walk , one of the best places to enjoy a Balinese sunset.

The hike takes about an hour one way and most of the path is paved and fairly flat.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Starting point (South): F7W3+HW Sayan, Gianyar Regency, Bali, Indonesia ( Google Maps ) Starting point (North): G744+39P, Jl. Bangkiang Sidem, Keliki, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561, Indonesia ( Google Maps )

*Pro-tip: After your hike, order in dinner from the comfort of your villa — get local favourites like Babi Guling and Martabak from food delivery services!

Day 2: Immerse Yourself in Ubud’s Captivating Outdoors

Your itinerary isn’t complete without visiting these epic waterfalls in Bali!

Tibumana Waterfall

Photo credit: @mathias.explores via Instagram

How about exploring something a bit more hidden? Head past Apuan Village’s endless rice fields and check out the elusive Tibumana Waterfall . Lush forests encircle these mesmerising falls making it feel like a private lagoon.

From the entrance, it’s a 15-minute walk down past the rice paddies!

*Pro-tip: Rent a locker for Rp5,000 (~S$0.45) to explore the falls hands-free.

Entrance fee: Rp20,000 (~S$2) Opening hours: 7AM – 6PM How to get there: 5min drive from Taman Sari Waterfall and Natural Pool ( Google Maps )

Kanto Lampo Waterfall

The Kanto Lampo Waterfall is easily accessible from Ubud. It’s a 30-minute drive from Central Ubud and a 10-minute hike down from the entrance.

Once a hidden gem, this waterfall has gained a lot more attention over the years — everyone wants a picture with its majestic cascading falls and unique rock formations. So, it’s best to be there earlier in the morning to avoid the queues!

Entrance fee: Rp20,000 (~S$2) Opening hours: 6:30AM – 5:30PM How to get there: 5min drive from Gianyar Culture Hall ( Google Maps )

Tegenungan Waterfall

Photo credit: @digitaltravelcouple via Instagram

Possibly the most famous waterfall in Bali, Tegenungan’s massive cascades are the did-you-really-go-to-Bali-if-you-didn’t-visit-this-waterfall spot. So don’t be shocked to see crowds by late morning.

However, this 25m high waterfall is still worth a trip down, especially at sunrise, as the morning sun creates an epic spotlight on the falls.

While it’s possible to swim in Tegenungan’s waters, you might want to know that the water first passes through the paddy fields so it can carry manure — maybe best appreciated from land 😬

Entrance fee: Rp20,000 (~S$2) Opening hours: 6:30AM – 6:30PM How to get there: 7min walk from Kemenuh Butterfly Park ( Google Maps )

*Pro-tip: Hit all three falls in one day with this waterfall tour which offers both pickup and drop-off, with an additional visit to a coffee plantation ☕️

Bali Waterfall Tour Cost: From ~S$60/pax Pickup point: Anywhere in Ubud, Sanur, Seminyak, Canggu, Legian, Kuta, Nusa Dua, and Jimbaran area

Alas Harum’s Rice Terraces

Ubud is known for its epic rice terraces. And at Alas Harum , they’ve turned a large plot of it into a giant playground 🤩

Try fun activities like the iconic Bali swing (Rp176,250 or ~S$15) and sky-biking where you cycle in the air over the terraces (Rp235,000 or ~S$20). Or, explore the terraces and discover all of the amazing photo spots set up throughout!

We ended our day relaxing at the luxurious in-house terrace club, Cretya Ubud . It feels exactly like a beach club but instead of vast ocean views, you get panoramic views of the rice terraces from the infinity pool. It’s also the perfect place to catch the sunset 😍

Cost: From ~S$19/pax (inclusive of extreme swing) Opening hours: 7AM – 7PM Address: 1min walk from Cretya Ubud ( Google Maps )

*Pro-tip: Use your Citi Credit Card to book your activities via the Traveloka App and quote “ CITIXPLORE ” for up to S$100 off!

Day 3: Dive into Bali’s Food Culture

If you love the Bali cafe scene, here are some stylish coffee spots in Ubud to add to your Bali itinerary.

Milk & Madu Ubud

Milk & Madu serves classic cafe foods for a fraction of the price. The menu offers everything from elaborate Poke bowls to tall burgers and gourmet pizzas.

We got the Madu Smash Burger and the Four Cheese Pizza. It was more than enough to fill the both of us! Not forgetting their delicious iced lattes to wash it all down 🙌🏼

And their glasshouse design is just as aesthetic as their food!

Cost: ~Rp140,000/entree (~S$12) Opening hours: 7AM – 10PM How to get there: 2min walk from Ubud Art Market ( Google Maps )

Titik Temu Coffee

Just a stone’s throw away from Milk & Madu is an underrated two-storey cafe. Titik Temu checked all our boxes — food: 10/10, vibes: 10/10 and price point: 11/10!

We really enjoyed their Aglio Olio, but the true stunner was their creamy scrambled eggs — a big serving of fluffy goodness accompanied by sauteed mushrooms, smoked beef, and toast.

I’m not exaggerating but I still think about it every now and then 🤤

Cost: ~Rp40,000/snack Opening hours: 8AM – 10PM How to get there: 2min walk from Ubud Royal Palace ( Google Maps )

Read more: The Ultimate Bali Food Guide: 21 Things To Eat in Seminyak, Ubud and Nusa Dua

Compound’s Warung

Photo credit: @compoundswarung via Instagram

For more local flavour, visit Compound’s Warung — their five-star Google reviews speak for themselves!

Situated in a traditional Balinese hut, this warung (small, family-owned business) serves some of the best local dishes like Nasi Campur and Mie Goreng . And they offer vegan options too!

After a hearty meal, step outside and meet the friendly free-roaming bunnies in the garden 🐰

Cost: ~Rp30,000/entree Opening hours: 9AM – 10PM How to get there: 4min walk from Ubud Art Market ( Google Maps )

*Pro-tip: As most restaurants accept cashless payment, pay for meals with your Citi PremierMiles Card and earn 2 Citi Miles with every S$1 foreign currency spend.

Local Cooking Clas s

You might not be able to dabao (takeaway) food back home but you can learn to make your favourite Balinese dishes from Tanah Gajah ‘s Executive Chef Dean Nor .

From Indonesian Rujak to Mie Goreng, Chef Dean shows you step by step how to prepare and cook each dish. Don’t worry about taking notes — you get to bring back a copy of all the recipes along with an apron.

You’ll also tour a garden where you can sample the very produce, herbs, and spices used in their dishes!

At the end, enjoy the entire spread prepared by the hotel chefs at the restaurant.

Cost: From ~S$85/pax Class hours: 12PM – 2PM Address: 10min drive from Agung Rai Museum of Art ( Google Maps )

Day 4: Unwind Before Your Flight Home

End off your trip with the ultimate pamper session at Kaveri Spa .

Take your pick of a warm tub filled with flowers, a detoxing body scrub, or a 90-minute full-body massage! We couldn’t decide so we got all three with the Kaveri package 🤪

I felt like a Disney princess soaking in the flower bath 🌺 and being pampered with the Kaveri Royal Massage. Not gonna lie, I was really tempted to miss my flight and book round two 😂

Cost: From ~S$155/pax (for a package) Opening hours: 9AM – 9PM How to get there: 14min walk from Muse Cafe and Art ( Google Maps )

Read more: 5D Bali Itinerary: The Best of Bali For The Adventurous — Ubud, Seminyak, Nusa Dua

Pro-tips for Planning Your Next Bali Itinerary

I was so excited to return to Bali after many years and exploring parts I’d not visited before! And we could thoroughly enjoy our trip knowing everything was in place before our flight. Here are some tips for planning your next Bali itinerary:

1) Collect all those loyalty rewards: Rack up miles by booking your flights and accommodations with the Citi PremierMiles Card — it earns you 1.2 Citi miles with every S$1 local spend. And when making payments overseas, we got 2 Citi miles with every S$1 spent!

The best part is Citi Miles has no expiry date 🥳

2) Pre-book your activities: Bali is a hot destination right now so be sure you’ve got the essentials like accommodation, airport transfer and activities pre-booked. We had ours booked with the Traveloka app , which even offers flights!

Get discounts of up to S$100 off (with minimum spend) Traveloka app bookings when you use the promo code “ CITIXPLORE ” — valid till 31 March 2024

*Pro-tip: When booking flights on Traveloka, input your preferred airline frequent flyer number or ID to earn miles on top of Traveloka Points!

3) Bring more cash. Most cafes accept cards, but waterfalls and other attractions only accept cash. So, it’s good to have more cash in hand.

4) Check your accommodation address : Although our resort has ‘Ubud’ in its name, it’s not written in the address so we didn’t know it wasn’t within Central Ubud. We still loved the quiet and serenity away from the centre, but if you prefer staying closer to the cafes and bars, make sure your address has ‘Ubud’ in it!

5) Pre-pay tourism tax: Starting 14 Feb 2024, all foreigners would have to pay Rp150,000 (~S$12.80) in tourism tax to enter the island. Skip the lines at the airline counters by paying for it in advance via the Love Bali website or app.

Planning an itinerary for your next trip to Bali? Share with us your questions below!

This post was brought to you by Citi Credit Cards and Traveloka .

@thetravelintern Head out of the city to these epic sights less than 3hrs away! #tiktoktravel #bangkok #mygallery #tiktoksg #fyp #poppoppop #sgfyp #learningisfun ♬ POP! – NAYEON

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How To Visit The Ubud Palace In Bali (Puri Saren Agung)

The Ubud Palace is an old building complex in Bali with some fantastic carvings and courtyards.

Also known as Puri Saren Agung , this is an important historical landmark for the Balinese and it’s also very accessible, with some great spots for taking ‘Bali-esque’ cultural photos.

The Ubud Royal Palace is a great place to visit in combination with the Ubud market and town center attractions like Saraswati Temple .

Table of Contents show 1) Where To Stay 2) The Ubud Palace 3) Opening Hours & Entrance Fees 4) How To Get There 5) More Bali Temples 6) Bali Private Driver & Motorbike Rental 7) Ubud Hotels

Where To Stay

The Kayon Resort

Adiwana Unagi Suites

Pondok Serayu

Umah Dajane Guesthouse

The Ubud Palace

The Ubud Royal Palace, also known by its Indonesian name Puri Saren Agung , was an important building in the 1800s, when the top Balinese artists were flocking to Ubud to show off their skills.

Don’t expect something huge and grand like Buckingham Palace. This is more of a mini palace, and you could walk through the whole thing in 15 minutes.

Still, there’s a lot of great art and culture to soak up here, so take it slowly and pay attention to the details.

The real Ubud monkey.

The palace has a temple too (of course), but they don’t let tourists go inside, so you’ll have to settle with taking pics of the doorway from the outside.

Morning is the best time to visit Ubud Palace, because it gets pretty crowded with tourists by noon. The whole place is free to visit.

Opening Hours & Entrance Fees

• Opening Hours: 7 AM – 5 PM daily
• Entrance Fee: Free

How To Get There

The Ubud Palace is located in the town center of Ubud, just a short walk from the Ubud market.

More Bali Temples

Looking for more information on the best temples in Bali , Indonesia?

Check out my Bali Temple Guide for a complete list with photos, maps, and more!  

Bali Private Driver & Motorbike Rental

If you want to explore Bali in the comfort and safety of a private car with an English speaking driver, my top recommendation would be GetYourGuide .

Their price is 650k Rupiah ($45 USD) for a full day of driving and sightseeing in Bali (up to 10 hours) for 1-5 passengers. That's the total price for the whole car + driver + petrol! It's a great deal. They also offer affordable hotel transfers from the airport.

If you'd rather travel by motorbike, they have that too. Their scooter rentals start at 140k Rupiah (~$9) and include a helmet, rain coat, and free delivery in the south Bali area.

We've used GetYourGuide for lots of tours and activities around the world, and they're great! Highly recommended.

Book Now: Bali Private Driver / Scooter Rental  

Ubud Hotels

• Ubud Travel Guide - Best Things To Do In Ubud Bali
• 3-Day Ubud Itinerary - Touring Bali's Cultural Center
• Ubud Temple Guide - Best Temples In Ubud Bali
• Ubud Waterfall Guide - Best Waterfalls Near Ubud Bali
• Bali Beach Guide - The Best Beaches In Bali
• Bali Waterfalls Guide - The Best Waterfalls In Bali
• Bali Temple Guide - The Best Temples In Bali
• Most Beautiful Indonesian Islands - Best Places To Visit In Indonesia
• Bali Travel Guide - Info, Pictures, & Blog

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Ubud Travel Guide

Ubud is often described as the cultural heart of Bali. It’s common to see a Balinese ceremony during your time in Ubud, which is a special experience to have. Ubud village itself can be quite busy but surrounding Ubud you will find beautiful green seas of rice fields. 

This is one place you should definitely stay when on your Bali holiday. For at least a few days. There’s something about it. It forces you to slow down, look at things differently. Ubud village may be quite touristy but that’s exactly why I think a day trip doesn’t do it justice. It’s in the evening or early morning when you get to really see Ubud. And if you stay in the beautiful surrounds of Ubud you will have all the peace you need. 

Ubud village is full of restaurants, yoga studios, spa’s and shops. You’ll walk past temples and wander through markets. Although it’s still busy, attracts a lot of tourists and has heavy traffic at times, somehow you end up forgetting about this. The food here ranges from local warungs to fine dining, with a lot of vegetarian and vegan options.

There are so many things to do in Ubud. From getting a massage, eating, doing a cooking lesson, shopping, visiting an art gallery or learning some local arts and crafts. The local Ubud market is also excellent. From walking through the rice fields, to whitewater rafting. There are also lots of tours and day trips available here. If you want to experience Bali’s beautiful scenery, culture and meet the locals, try a bicycle tour through the villages.

What’s Nearby? 

Bali Airport is 1.5 – 2 hrs away.  Sanur is about 1 hr away. Padang Bai is about 1.5 – 2 hrs away.  Kuta / Seminyak / Legian are about 1.5 – 2 hrs away. 

From Ubud you can hire a private driver and explore surrounding areas, including rice fields, waterfalls, Bedugal, Beratan Lake, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan Temple and Munduk.

FEEL // Healthy, Nature, Cultural.

BEST FOR //  Rice fields, Scenery, Yoga, Food, Boutique Shops, Spas, Art Galleries, Learning Balinese art and craft.

LOCATION //  Located in central Bali.

GET THERE // Ubud is about 1.5 – 2 hours from the airport, depending on traffic. You can get a taxi from the official airport stand at the airport when you arrive, or arrange a transfer with your hotel. If you’re coming from another area in Bali, you can take a taxi or a private driver if you want to stop off along the way.

GET AROUND //  The best way to get around Ubud is by walking. If you want to go further outside Ubud you can use the local village transport service (make sure to arrange a price beforehand) or hire a private driver for a half day or full day. If you’re staying at a hotel surrounding Ubud, they may offer a free shuttle service into the village.

THE UGLY TRUTH //  Traffic can be quite congested in the village. There are a lot of tourists here.

THE SILVER LINING //  If you stay in the village, you can walk everywhere so traffic isn’t really a problem. So many cheap spas. The scenery is peacefully beautiful. Lot’s of healthy options (spa’s, teas, food, yoga etc). Full of culture.

ACCOMMODATION //  Luxury, mid-range and budget accommodation options. Read More .

TYPE OF HOLIDAY // Fun, Friends, Family, Couples, Luxury, Romantic, Weddings, Honeymoons

READ MORE // Find all of our Ubud Blog Posts here .

WHERE TO STAY IN UBUD

UBUD FIELD GUIDE

WHERE TO EAT IN UBUD

THINGS TO DO IN UBUD

26 Comments

One of the best websites I have found to research Bali, thank guys!

Thanks so much Hannah hope you have a great trip :)

I came across many blogs about traveling to Bali. Your blog was THE BEST and BEAUTIFUL. Me and my wife are leaving to Bali in 2 days. We have booked a travel guide to take us to the Ulun Danu Temple, Tanah Lot temple with Sunset, Mount Batur Trek, Tegenunga waterfall, Tibubene waterfall, Spice Garden, Nusa Penida. It is a 4 day trip. Have we missed anything that we must see? Please advise.

Hi, Thank you so much for your comment, that means so much to us :) Sorry to get to it too late, hope you both had an amazing time!

Hi Mandy & Chris!

I love your website! The best I’ve come across in my planning. I’m going solo in June & have booked 3 days in Seminyak & 5 days in Ubud. After reading your site, I don’t know if I should change it to spend more time in Seminyak…?

Also, do you think there would be an issue catching a morning flight from Ubud or would you recommend staying the night before in Seminyak?

Hi Jess, Thanks so much that means a lot :) 3 days in Seminyak and 5 days in Ubud sounds great. It just depends if you want more beach/cafe/shops time (Seminyak) or more cultural/nature time (Ubud). As for the morning flight from Ubud, as long as you leave more than enough time it should be fine, so make sure to leave an extra hour or more than what you think. I always prefer staying closer to the airport so I don’t need to think about it, but staying the night before in Seminyak might seem like too much moving. But as you’re wanting to spend longer in Seminyak, it could be a good option for you too ;) Basically, either way can work! Hope you have a great trip :)

Thank you! I’m interested in outdoor activities like snorkelling & white water rafting. Are there any good places ot trips I can do while in Ubud or Seminyak?

Hi Jess, Whitewater rafting would be best when you’re in Ubud. We have actually never done rafting in Bali but Sobek Rafting has consistently great reviews. https://balisobek.com/Rafting.asp Another activity from Ubud that we have loved is bike riding. There are many companies and hotels that will do a good one. (Bali Eco-Cycle is a good one). https://www.baliecocycling.com/ With Snorkelling, I would say you would need to do a day trip or stay overnight somewhere like Amed, Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, Gili’s. Other areas you can still snorkel but depending on where, you may not see much corals or fish. From Seminyak there some great cooking classes (Bumbu Bali) and you could do a surf lesson or just visit some of the beaches in the Bukit Peninsular/Uluwatu area. Enjoy your trip!

Hi Guys, next week my partner and I are going for our week long trip in Bali and are spending the first night in Kuta before transferring to Ubud as we arrive in the airport at night time. Our Villa has offered a one way shuttle to pick us up from Kuta and take us to the Villa in Ubud for 400,000IPR but I feel this is a little steep. How do you guys recommend getting from Kuta to Ubud in the cheapest, but most reliable way? xx

Hi Phoebe, Thanks for your comment, looking at the date you will have been and gone already, hope you had an amazing trip :) Did you end up using the villa transfer? If not what price were you able to get from Kuta to Ubud?

Hey there Mandy and Chris! Yours is certainly one of the most beautifully scripted blogs. And Bali through your eyes seems a whole lot of fun. I was wondering what would be a good means of travelling around; a metered taxi do you suggest? (And how much do they charge per kilometre?) Cheers

Thanks for your comments we appreciate your words Bali is definitely a fun place :) We generally use Bluebird Taxis where we can. They are easy and the meter is fare. Just make sure the meter is on and you have small change. The meter starts at 7,000 IDR and is then 6,500 per kilometre. In Ubud, however, there are no taxis. They can drop off (if you come from elsewhere) but cant pick up a fare. In Ubud, they have a village private driver system. It might seem like you are getting into anyone’s car but this is the way. Generally, all cars and drivers are nice enough. Just negotiate a price first (ask you accommodation what to expect to get back from Ubud village to the hotel for example). Let us know if you have any more question :) Have a fun trip!

Your blog is excellent! Do you think is a safe place to travel by single.?

Hi Patrizia, Thanks so much :) I think travelling solo you need to be careful no matter where you go, but we have personally not had any problems in Bali. As long as you stay in reputable accommodation, use bluebird taxis, and of course all other common sense things when travelling solo, I’m sure you will have a great trip :)

Hi guys, It’s a great blog with great tips, thank you!

How is Ubud it in terms of the mosquitos? Did you get vaccinations or were you taken the malaria tablest? I will be staying in a no con dorm for a week. Thanks a mil. Nat

Hi Nat, thanks so much :) It’s best to see your doctor before a trip to Bali to just check on the latest advice, but every time we have gone, the best thing to do is use mosquito repellent with DEET and cover up to prevent any bites, I think the biggest risk in Bali is Dengue. We have never been advised to take Malaria tablets in Bali, it’s not usually required but again just check with your doctor first. Have a great trip :)

Hello My husband and I are leaving today for Bali :) We will be staying 10 days in a villa in Seminyak. We have 5 days remaining where we aren’t sure where we should go. Any suggestions? We were thinking 3 days Nusa Dua , 2 days Ubud? We wanted to stay longer in Ubud however I have heard due to rainy season we may get confined to our hotel/villa? thoughts?

Hi, hope you’re enjoying Bali!

Nusa Dua is nice for big resorts and as a base, and for less waves at the beach, but if you wanted to stay somewhere else near the beach I would also explore Jimbaran or Uluwatu too, as they have a nice laid back feel with seafood dinners and markets etc. You could definitely spend the 5 days in Ubud too. We were in Ubud during rainy season, and over a week, it rained on about 2 days for a couple hours each time. It can of course rain more, or less, it’s a little unpredictable. It has never ‘dampened’ any of our time there though ;) When it rains, it’s a good time to get a massage!

I am looking into Ubud & Seminyak for my honeymoon this November, but I’m concerned about the weather. Any thoughts/suggestions about traveling to Bali during “rainy season”?

Hi Cali, We are in Bali at the moment and it is rainy season. In 2 weeks, it’s rained 4 times but for half an hour each. We have barely noticed it, otherwise the days are hot and sunny. Having said that, it can rain more, but it can also rain in the dry season. Our last dry season trip it rained every day for a week?! So it can be unpredictable, but I don’t think you should be too concerned about it, when it rains here it doesn’t usually last long. Hope this helps and have an amazing honeymoon :) let us know if you have any other questions…

I’m planning a vacation for my parents’ 25th wedding anniversary in Bali. I see a lot of ideas for youngsters, but finding a hard time curating something for them on a more relaxed and laid back note. Any help will be greatly appreciated! :)

Hi Meghana, There are so many options for all types of travellers in Bali :) If they want something more relaxed, perhaps staying in a beautiful resort (Bali has so many!) in a couple of locations, so they can relax at the resort or get out and about too. Ubud and Jimbaran would be a nice mixture of beach and natural scenery. We recently stayed at Padma Resort Ubud and that would be a great option. Getting a private driver for the day would also be nice so they can different areas, and they can self-pace it. Hope this helps, let me know if you have any other questions and hope they have a great trip :)

Hi guys, We are planning a 3-4 week stay in Bali next April/May. We love the sound of Ubud and we are thinking of basing ourselves there for the duration with side trips to other places on the island during our stay. We are thinking of checking out AirBnB places. Any thoughts? Thanks in advance.

Hi Tracey & Della, We love Ubud and it would be great to spend a lot of your time here. A few things to think about: 1. If you stay in Ubud for the entire month and do day trips to other areas, it may take you on average 2hrs or more to get to places like Seminyak, Jimbaran, Uluwatu etc. So if you wanted to go to other areas, perhaps staying 1 – 2 weeks in these areas then spend 2 – 3 weeks in Ubud would cut down driving time and transport costs, and probably be less stressful. 2. If you plan to spend the majority of your holiday in Ubud, just make sure you pick the location that’s right for you. You can stay in Ubud town, which is busier but also more convenient in terms of getting to restaurants, shops, massages etc. The other option is on the outskirts of Ubud which is more relaxing/tranquil, but you would also need transport to get into the town. If you stay with Airbnb in the outskirts, make sure you have transport available.

As for Airbnb, I think this would be a great option, especially if you’re staying a bit longer as you can get cheaper weekly rates. You may also have a kitchen to cook and some more space. But again, just check the location, because this will have a huge impact on your holiday if you’re going to be there for a few weeks.

Hope you have an amazing time in Bali :) Let us know if you have any other questions.

I’m planning on landing at like 9pm and then getting to my hostel in Ubud, do you think this would be a dangerous move? Or really expensive?

Hi Tom, If you land at 9 pm you may not get out of the airport straight away, then around 1.5 – 2 hrs to get to Ubud. So you might not get there til after midnight. The price should be the same, airport taxi to Ubud is 195,000 IDR. However, this might not be the nicest way to start your holiday, but it’s definitely do-able. The other option would be to stay nearby for the first night or two, in places such as Seminyak, Jimbaran, Kuta, Legian etc. Have a great time in Bali, let us know if you have any other questions :)

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Ubud, Indonesia

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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...

Inland Ubud and the surrounding area form Bali’s cultural heartland. Ubud is home to a huge number of temples, museums and art galleries. Next to that, it's one of Asia’s leading yoga centres. Its wealth of craft studios offer some absorbing shopping. Ubud also hosts nightly Balinese dance shows and it's a great place to see traditional ceremonies and daily rituals, too. Ubud’s lovely location becomes even prettier beyond the main centre. Set amid lush, terraced rice paddies, there’s plenty of scope for hikes and bicycle rides. For a sense of traditional Bali , visit the arty Penestanan or the Bronze Age relics of Pejeng.

Discover the Cultural Heart of Bali

Things to do in ubud, best areas to stay in ubud, best restaurants and bars, how to get around, how many days do you need in ubud, best time to visit ubud, how to get here, tailor-made travel itineraries for indonesia, created by local experts.

6 days  / from 830 USD

Bali's Beaches and Temples

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

10 days  / from 1600 USD

Rest and Relaxation in Bali and Lombok

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

10 days  / from 2100 USD

Royal Bali - Culture & Beaches

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

As well as the bounteous natural beauty, Ubud is where some of Bali's cultural greats gathered. Head to Neka Art Museum to see some of the best Balinese paintings on the island. And if that gets you in the mood for having a go yourself, there are plenty of classes on offer in Ubud. Try your hand at batik painting, silversmithing, or Balinese cookery.

Ubud is also a fab place to tickle the senses. The echoing melodies of the gamelan (Indonesian percussion) accompany traditional dance performances each night, but Mother Nature is just as evocative. Get wooed by the elusive Bali starlings at Bali Bird Park, a beautifully-landscaped aviary.

Else descend the 315 steps to reach the impressive eleventh-century Gunung Kawi. These beguiling rock-cut “tombs” are in the valley of the sacred Pakrisan River.

Ubud surrounded by emerald-green rice paddies © Chisanu LIENGPAN / Alamy Stock Photo

Ubud is a great place for those who are interested in Balinese arts and traditions. There are lots of things to do, even if you visit for just a day. People still make art, dance, and play music there. Every day there is usually some kind of religious festival going on too.

Ubud is also known as a spiritual tourist destination where visitors can practice yoga and meditation or visit healers. The village has grown over time to include many nearby places like organic cafés, bungalows by the river, craft shops, spas and treatment centers, chic homes for expats, and hotels with beautiful views.

#1 Walk through the rice paddies of Ubud

Around Ubud, there are a few interesting paths to walk through the rice paddies. These paths look like the traditional paintings of Walter Spies. The track sometimes gets hard to follow, but it is gorgeous with views of Gunung Agung (if the clouds are not in the way). You can see farmers wearing conical hats working in the sparkling rice fields with the mountain in the background.

Cutting across the rice fields, the track becomes totally indistinct at times. But these narrow paths that run along the top of the dykes look out across to the amazing Gunung Agung (cloud cover permitting) as conical-hatted farmers work in the glittering rice paddies With the mountain in the background.

#2 Visit the Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)

Uncover the mysteries of the Goa Gajah, an ancient archaeological site located just outside Ubud. Step into a realm of spirituality as you venture into the cave adorned with mystical carvings and bathing pools. Explore the lush grounds and discover the intricate stone sculptures that tell tales of Bali's rich cultural heritage.

The entrance to the elephant cave "Goa Gajah" on the Indonesian island of Bali © Shutterstock

#3 Explore the Tegenungan Waterfall:

Located just a short drive from Ubud, the Tegenungan Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction with a powerful cascade of water surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can take a refreshing swim in the waterfall's pool or relax and enjoy the peaceful ambience.

#4 Take a cultural class like batik painting

With so many creative types in residence, Ubud is a great place to learn something new: there are tourist-oriented courses in everything from batik to yoga. In addition to the more formal venues, it’s always worth asking for advice from the more traditional homestays, whose managers are often dancers, musicians or painters.

ARMA Cultural Workshops offer 2-3-hour museum-endorsed classes in ancient Balinese culture. Think Balinese painting, woodcarving, batik, gamelan , dance and theatre, silver, basket-weaving, traditional architecture, Hinduism, and astrology. Other arresting courses to try include batik, woodcarving, classical painting, and basketry.

Try your hands at batik painting, an Indonesian art technique © Prarinya / Shutterstock

#5 Admire Balinese paintings at Neka Art Museum

Containing the island’s most comprehensive collection of paintings from across Bali’s various artistic styles, Neka Art Museum is a series of pavilions on the main Campuhan/Sanggingan road. English-language labels are posted beside the paintings, with Balinese, expatriate and visiting artists all represented.

The best artworks to see include Rajapala Steals Sulasih’s Clothes and The Pandawa Brothers in Disguise. Both were painted by Ida Bagus Rai. Found in the Balinese Painting Hall, they are fine examples of Kamasan-style works that mix classical elements with more modern sensuality. The bold, Dutch expressionist, Arie Smit, has many striking paintings in the second pavilion, including A Tropical Garden By the Sea. The third pavilion, meanwhile, has an archive of black-and-white photographs from Bali in the 1930s and 1940s, taken by the American Robert Koke.

#6 Discover the Ubud Traditional Market

Engage in a vibrant sensory experience at the Ubud Traditional Market. Stroll through the bustling market stalls, where local vendors offer a colourful array of handicrafts, textiles, artwork, and traditional Balinese souvenirs. Bargain with the friendly shopkeepers and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this cultural hub.

Ubud market is a famous market in Bali © Shutterstock

#7 Immerse in Balinese Culture at the Ubud Palace

The Ubud Palace, also known as Puri Saren Agung, is a cultural hub where visitors can experience Balinese traditional dance performances, art exhibitions, and royal events. The palace's intricate carvings and beautiful architecture offer a glimpse into the island's rich history and culture.

#8 Take in a traditional dance performance in Ubud

As an important centre of Balinese dance and gamelan , watching a traditional dance performance is one the best things to do in Ubud. As these evocative shows, gods and demons flirt and fight by torchlight to the sounds of the gamelan . There are as many as nine different dance shows each night in the area with the tourist office arranging free transport to any venues outside of Ubud.

The best dances to catch include the Kecak (Monkey Dance) and the Barong (Lion Dance). These are the most accessible and visually interesting. The Legong, which enacts several traditional stories, is more refined and understated. Another show worth seeking out in Ubud is the unique all-female Kecak Srikandi.

Ubud is the best place in Bali to see traditional dance shows © Katiekk / Shutterstock

#9 Massage or meditate to calm your mind, body and spirit

As Bali’s centre for holistic practices and alternative therapies, so one of the best things to do in spiritual-minded Ubud is to have a massage. There are plenty of traditional spa and beauty treatments available at locations across the town, including day spas and full-on health resorts. As well as the usual massages, facials, hair treatments, manicures and pedicures, look out for treatments using jamu , pastes made from the likes of turmeric, ginger, galangal and garlic, which are all said to have healing properties.

Ubud is one of Asia’s foremost yoga communities, too. It has many resident and visiting devotees, plus more than a dozen schools in the area. There are scores of instructors offering everything from hatha and vinyasa flow yoga sessions to pilates, capoeira, dance and meditation, too.

Ubud is the best place in Bali for massages and meditation © Shutterstock

#10 Indulge in Balinese Cuisine

No trip to Ubud is complete without indulging in the tantalizing flavours of Balinese cuisine. Enjoy a tantalizing blend of aromatic spice and fresh ingredients, creating a delightful culinary journey for the taste buds. While here, you'll want to try authentic dishes such as Babi Guling (suckling pig), Bebek Betutu (smoked duck), and Nasi Campur (mixed rice) at local warungs (eateries).

Ubud has an incredible choice of accommodation. Most family homestays are in traditional compounds and have real Balinese charm. Artistic, mid-range hotels often have pools, while upscale options are luxurious, many with rice paddy or river views.

Central Ubud

The 1km-long Jl Monkey Forest is the most central and commercial part of town, while the smaller roads, such as Jl Karna, Jl Maruti, Jl Gootama, Jl Kajeng and Jl Bisma, are more peaceful.

Find the best accommodation in Central Ubud.

Peliatan , 1.6km southeast of the Ubud market, harbours a couple of excellent places to stay. Nyuhkuning, Padang Tegal and Pengosekan are peaceful southern settlements. Sambahan is just north of central Ubud.

West of central Ubud, the hotels in Sanggingan are reached via busy Jl Raya Ubud; some offer free transfers. This is where the Ayung Valley is. If you’re staying in Keliki or Payangan you’ll probably need transport.

Sayan ( find accommodation ), Penestanan ( find accommodation ) and Singakerta, west and south of central Ubud, are dotted with ultra-luxe resorts and villas. It has some good mid-range accommodation options, too.

Best places to stay in Ubud

KajaNe Mua , Central Ubud Popular resort with villa compounds offering one to four rooms, all with private pools.

Wapa di Ume , Sambahan The attention to detail is flawless at this beautiful natural chic hotel where each room has a rice paddy view. There’s a fine pool, spa, restaurant with stunning vistas, and free yoga classes.

Ubud is a great place to try traditional, healthy Indonesian food like nasi goreng © Shutterstock

The best restaurants in Ubud are healthy. If you like your food vegan, organic and raw, Ubud will be heaven: it’s probably Asia’s healthy eating epicentre. Or if barbecued meats and pizza are more to your taste, you’ll eat well here too. Factor in Japanese, Chinese, Italian, French, a slew of delis, and of course, Indonesian and Balinese restaurants and there’s an amazing selection. Many restaurants outside central Ubud offer free pick-ups if you call up advance.

With that in mind it’s no surprise that the bars in Ubud are no hotbed of hedonistic nightlife. Most tourists go to an early-evening Balinese dance performance before catching last orders at a restaurant at around 9pm. The bar scene is pretty sedate, so choose a live music night at one of the town’s restaurants or bars to be sure of a decent crowd.

• Café Wayan No Ubud visit is complete without at least one stop at the iconic Café Wayan which has served scrumptious food for over 30 years. There's a mouth-watering Balinese buffet on Sunday evenings.
• Ibu Oka Another Ubud icon, this open-sided warung attracts queues of diners for it’s always flavoursome babi guling (suckling pig). There are a couple of other branches around town too. Get there early.
• No Mas Bar Stylish bar with a social vibe, vintagey decor, rotating live bands and DJs and killer cocktails (try a Pickleback – whisky and home-made juice).

Walking is the best way to get around Ubud © robertharding / Alamy Stock Photo

Ubud is a popular city in Bali and there are enough options to get around. If you are concentrating on the city only, you can see most things on foot. If you feel comfortable enough, renting a motorbike is a great way to explore Ubud and around.

Getting around by bemo

Public bemos are good for short hops: to the Neka Art Museum; for Pengosekan or Peliatan (any bemo heading for Batubulan); and to Petulu (use the orange bemos to Pujung).

Getting around by taxi

There are no metered taxis in Ubud (the local transport touts prevent them from operating), so you have to bargain with the transport touts who hang around every corner. Most outlying hotels provide free transport to and from central Ubud.

Getting around by car or motorbike

Most transport touts and tour agencies in central Ubud offer car and motorbike rentals. One reputable outfit includes Bali Ari Tours & Driver. If driving northwards (i.e. uphill) to Kintamani or to the north coast, it’s worth getting something more powerful than the cheapest Jimny.

Tegenungan Waterfall on the Petanu River, Kemenuh Village, Bali © Shutterstock

Getting around by bike

Bicycles are an excellent way to get around if you avoid the busier roads; they can be rented from numerous outlets along Jl Raya Ubud and Jl Monkey Forest.

Getting around on foot

The most enjoyable way of seeing Ubud and its immediate environs is on foot via the tracks through the rice paddies and the narrow streets.

Depending on how much you plan to relax – and it's worth taking time out to have a massage or spa treatment here – you're likely to want to spend three or four days in Ubud.

You need at least a day to take in Museum Puri Lukisan, Neka Art Museum, Ubud Art Market and Ubud Palace. Start day two with a walk through the rice paddies, before visiting Bali Bird Park and enjoying a spa treatment. Take in a dance show in the evening. Day three should include the Gunung Kawi tombs and the Blanco Renaissance Museum, the former home of the flamboyant Catalan artist Antonio Blanco. If you've got an extra day, both the Ubud Monkey Forest and Petulu’s white heron sanctuary are worth adding to your itinerary.

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

Ubud is great for most of the year but expect it to rain © Akhmad Dody Firmansyah / Shutterstock

Ubud offers warm, year-round temperatures that average 26°C in town and the surrounding hills. But visitors should also expect rain here throughout the year. Bali is subject to an annual monsoon season (October to March) that brings intense downpours, high winds, and humidity. We don't advise mountain climbing during the monsoon season.

Bali's peak tourist season is from April to August with hotel rack rates at their highest in June and July. In Ubud, the Christmas–New Year period is very busy so book months in advance where possible. Idul Fitry (Eid al-Fitri, usually May–June) is typically popular as well. Pack for tropical downpours whenever you visit Ubud.

Find out more about the b est time to visit Bali and Indonesia in general.

Puri Saren Agung, The Rotal Palace in Ubud, Bali © Shutterstock

Located in central Bali, the best way of getting to Ubud is usually via shuttle bus or bemo (minibus).

Getting from the airport to Ubud

Bali’s only airport, Ngurah Rai International Airport (referred to as Denpasar), is 35km south of Ubud. The easiest way to get from Ngurah Rai Airport is by shuttle bus or taxi.

Getting to Ubud by shuttle bus

Bali’s ubiquitous shuttle bus operator, Perama, serves all major tourist destinations on the island. Tickets are available from Perama’s Ubud office, inconveniently located in Padang Tegal at the far southern end of Jl Hanoman, 2.5km from the central market. You can buy tickets from the tourist office and some travel agencies too. Other shuttle bus companies may offer more convenient services: the tourist office keeps an up-to-date list of operators and sells tickets.

Getting to Ubud by bemo

A limited number of bemo services run to/from Ubud, normally departing every 30min or so from about 6am until around 2pm, then at least hourly until about 5pm. They all leave from the central market on Jl Raya Ubud.

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

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updated 26.04.2021

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