1 month bali trip

The Perfect 1 Week, 2 Weeks, & 1 Month Bali, Indonesia Travel Itinerary

Last Updated On: September 8, 2023

Bali, the island of the Gods, is one of my favorite places in the world for so many different reasons. The perfect combination of incredible scenery, vibrant culture, beautiful rice terraces, and delicious cuisine makes it hold a special place in my heart. I’ve visited Bali three times now and have even lived in Bali for a few months during COVID times (read about why I love living in Bali) . Bali has quickly become one of the top digital nomad hotspots with areas like Canggu and Berawa offering the perfect blend of island beauty and working environment.

Bali is in my opinion the ultimate Instagram island. I don’t just say that because of its natural beauty, but because of how beautiful the Balinese people have made some places. If you want to take nice pictures of nature or of yourself, Bali is the one stop shop for you. Just look at this photo in Nusa Penida for example!

Bali is an enormous island to the point that I wouldn’t even consider it an island anymore. There is an insane amount of things to do and see that I can’t begin to summarize everything in one post. Whether you’re visiting Bali for a honeymoon , a standard two week vacation, or planning to stay for longer, this post will help you plan your perfect trip.

How long to spend in Bali?

There is no perfect amount of time to spend in Bali because I literally have lived here for a half year. Bali kind of sucks you in with its low cost of living, high quality of services and goods, natural beauty, and just the perfect scene.

If you’re planning to stay for a long time and work as a digital nomad, this post will be great for inspiration but you probably don’t need to meticulously plan a trip.

However, if you’re planning a vacation to the island of the Gods, then you should plan to stay at least one week. Two weeks would of course be the optimal amount of time to spend in Bali and with three weeks, you can really relax and see more of the nearby islands. I know most people take one to three week vacations around the world so I will help you plan accordingly with this itinerary!

Bali is a huge island first and foremost. It is almost 6,000 square km being 160km wide and 120km long. It is double the size of Luxembourg and larger than the US state of Delaware. Not only is it large, but there are so many different highlights and amazing things to see in this island that you can’t hope to see it all with such short time. There are some things more worth seeing than others in my opinion and hopefully this guide will help you choose those things.

Best Time of year to visit Bali

Bali is located just south of the equator and enjoys warm tropical weather year round. There are only two seasons: Dry season between April and November, and rainy season between December and March.

The rainy seasons in Bali are not as bad or as extreme as other parts of Indonesia. I think the island being sandwiched between Java and Lombok provide some sort of shelter from the storms. Bali is also not as humid as other tropical destinations I’ve been which makes it much more enjoyable. Rainy season normally means isolated storms throughout the day with hot temperatures. It rarely just rains for days on end but it can happen.

I’ve visited during rainy and dry seasons and there are advantages to both. Dry season sees much less rain, beautiful sunsets but with bigger crowds. June to September, and December for the holidays are very busy months for the island. During the rainy season months of January to March, the crowds are less meaning you can enjoy some of Bali’s most popular sights with more peace.

Where I went in Bali

I lived in Bali for a few months so I was able to explore most of the touristy areas of the island as well as nearby islands. If you only have a few weeks to visit Bali, I’d recommend focusing on a few different areas that I will go over later in this post.

I think if I were to plan a 2-3 week itinerary, it would look something like the following:

How to get around in Bali?

Bali is an island for scooters. There is no public transportation to speak of and everyone uses scooters. Renting a car in Bali is of course possible but a traffic nightmare especially during touristy times.

The roads in Bali are very small and is certainly not big enough for how busy Bali has become. You’ll want the ability to park and maneuver freely around traffic which only comes with having a scooter. If you have never driven a scooter before, I’d recommend practicing beforehand as it can get a bit stressful.

If you are not keen to rent a scooter, then you can simply use Gojek which is the Uber of Indonesia to get from place to place. The prices are very cheap. For example, a Gojek from the airport to Canggu is about 100k IDR ($7.5).

Alternatively, if you want to spend a little more, then you should definitely consider a private driver in Bali for the day. A private driver will be able to take you to all the sights you want and stay in the car while you go explore. When you return, you know you’ll be comfortable in an AC’d car while it drives you to the next place!

Is it safe to drive a scooter in Bali?

As I’ve mentioned before, Bali runs on scooters. Everyone uses them, locals and foreigners alike. It’s by far the best way to get around the island. Bali traffic is known to be horrendous which I can attest to. People can be slightly aggressive while driving so you really need to be comfortable with your own skills.

Driving a scooter itself is not difficult in my opinion but you must be okay dealing with the traffic and the driving style of Bali. I don’t think it is overly crazy but it just depends on yourself. I actually drove a scooter for the first time in Bali. I didn’t find it to be too overwhelming and survived to tell the tale.

Day 1-4: Canggu

Upon landing in Bali, the first stop to visit is Canggu. Canggu is the bustling expat and digital nomad area that is vibrant and full of life. This isn’t the place for your typical Bali experience aka rice fields and beaches. However, Canggu is the perfect place to situate yourself for a few days while getting used to the Bali vibe.

canggu remote working digital nomad villa

Canggu is the ultimate place for restaurants, cafes, and beach bars. Canggu has an insane amount of amazing cafes serving delicious coffees and brunch style foods with an unmatched ambiance. If you are into taking photos of restaurants and your food, there is no place that will match the opportunities you get in Canggu.

In fact, I would say that Canggu has more beautiful and Instagram ready cafes per square kilometer than anywhere else in the world. Popular places like Suka, Milk and Madu, Crate, Copenhagen, Nook, Avocado Factory and literally countless more will keep you occupied for months. Canggu’s cafes are also entirely remote work / digital nomad friendly which I write about in my best cafes to work from in Canggu post.

You might read this and scoff a bit. I did the same thing. But after spending a few months hanging out in Canggu, I didn’t want to leave. For the quality and for the price of what you get, you can’t find this in many other parts of the world.

Canggu is home to some of the best restaurants in Bali so make sure to read through my list to plan your trip!

Have a drink on Echo Beach

Echo Beach is where all the people hang out for a drink while watching the sunset. This long strip of black sand beach is filled with chilled beach bars and restaurants alike where you can enjoy the sunset.

If you want something with a bit more atmosphere, visit the famous La Brisa beach club for the full experience. Otherwise, simply walk next door to La Brisa and grab a bean bag at any of the surfer bars where beers are a casual 30k IDR and coconuts are 20k IDR.

Take a half day trip to Tanah Lot

If you’re staying in the Canggu/Pererenan area, a visit to the famous Tanah Lot temple is a must. The Tanah Lot is one of the most visited temples in Bali. It’s located right on the water situated perfectly up rocky steps overlooking the ocean. Tanah Lot means land on the sea which perfectly sums up this temple.

It’s not as impressive as other temples in Bali like the Lempuyang temple in the far east but it is easily accessible and its location on the water is unique.

Day 4-8: Ubud and the rice terraces

After you’ve had your cafe and beach life in Canggu, it’s time to make a move to Ubud. Ubud is world famous for its incredible rice fields, yoga retreats, and spiritual environment. Although it’s long been popular, it was probably made even more popular by the movie Eat, Pray Love. Ubud is one of the highlights for most travelers to Ubud and it’s not something you should miss.

Tegalalang Rice Fields

You’ve surely seen plenty of photos throughout the years with Bali’s famous rice terraces. There are so many in Bali but the most popular and most easily accessible is Tegalalang rice terrace outside of Ubud.

You can reach these iconic multi level rice terraces by Gojek or scooter from Ubud. There are many restaurants and cafes overlooking the terraces as it has become quite commercialized in recent years. It is free to walk inside the rice terraces and take photos to your desire. There are also a bunch of Bali swings famous for their photogenic qualities.

These rice terraces are not just for show however. They are actually there to produce rice and you’ll find many farmers working the fields. Don’t be disrespectful and get in their way just to take a bunch of photos.

Depending on the time of year you visit, the rice terraces will be more green. At the beginning of the season, you’ll mostly just find soil and water in the terraces which don’t photograph as well.

Jatiluwih Rice Fields

If you think Tegalalang rice fields are nice, you’ve seen nothing yet. If you want the most beautiful rice fields in all of Bali, you’ll need to go to Jatiluwih. The rice fields here are expansive and vast, with sweeping views throughout the valley. Mount Batur and Agung can also be seen from the rice fields.

It’s realy not a close comparison between the rice fields around Ubud and Jatiluwih; Jatiluwih is just vastly more beautiful. From Ubud, you’ll need to take a scooter roughly 1 hour which is about the same time as it takes from Canggu. You can do this as a day trip from Canggu or from Ubud, it is up to you!

Just look at the beautiful photos!

Karsa Spa for the ultimate massage

Bali and Thailand alike is famous for its spas and massages. I actually prefer the traditional Balinese massage to the Thai style messages. There is no better place in Bali to get a quintessential massage than at Karsa Spa.

Located just north of Ubud, this spa is located on the rice fields and has some of the most beautiful grounds for a spa I’ve seen. As soon as you enter, you feel relaxed and at ease with the surroundings. The massage rooms are all outdoor with very inviting baths, showers, and massage beds. The massages themselves are among the best I’ve had in Bali.

Before COVID, I tried coming here and was told there was a 1 month waiting list for a massage. Yes, one month for a massage! Absolutely crazy but that’s how popular the place was.

During COVID, business here plummeted so I was able to make a reservation on the same day.

Sarawasti Temple in Ubud

Saraswati temple Kingdom of Ubud is dedicated to honor the Hindu Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of learning, literature and art. This temple is very beautiful and artistic, so many tourists who come to see its charm, but for purposes of worship. Pura Taman Saraswati has a water garden and lotus pond at the center of its attraction as a tourist attraction.

This temple is decorated with so many fine carvings and inside there Padmasana shrine located in the northeast, but it also contained bale barong, giant masks, statues of Goddess Saraswati and the statue of the devil Jero Gede Mecaling as high as 3 meters in front of the temple.

Campuhan Ridge Walk

The Campuhan Ridge Walk is arguably the best known Ubud trek and with good reason. The sparse crowds and the aesthetically rich vistas remind one of why people from around the world come to Bali. The trail starts at the historical origin of Ubud, the confluence (or Campuhan) of the Wos Rivers.

All in all, the hike can be done in a few hours and offers you splendid views of the rice terraces

Ubud Monkey Forest

One of the most popular and well known activities in Bali is the Ubud Monkey Forest. The Monkey Forest is a natural sanctuary for the Balinese long tailed macaque. Despite the many tourists, visiting the Monkey Forest Ubud is a truly wonderful experience. There are over 600 macaques living in the forest, mostly frolicking in groups, lounging, or annoying (or stubbornly ignoring) tourists.

Affenwald von Ubud, Ubud - Tickets & Eintrittskarten | GetYourGuide

The monkeys in the forest are used to visitors and are not afraid of contact . Which basically means they want to steal something from you. All kinds of bottles, food, hats and sunglasses are very popular, as well as the expensive camera.

Caution is therefore required, because if the monkeys smell prey, they can become rabid . It has also happened that a tourist has been bitten in a duel for the camera.

Before you enter the park, simply hand in any superfluous things at the entrance, make sure to stow your sunglasses, hat and anything else that is dangling on the outside of the backpack inside the backpack. You should be aware that the monkeys aren’t toys.

I avoided visiting the monkey forest during COVID times because the lack of tourists has resulted in lack of food (sad) for the monkeys. I’ve heard they’ve become more aggressive and with so few tourists, it was just asking for trouble.

Day Trip to the Lempuyang Temple

One of the most popular things to do in Bali is a day trip to the ultra famous Lempuyang Temple.

This temple is located on the far east side of Bali and is a 1h drive from Ubud. You’ve probably seen many photos of this temple. You can organize this trip with a group tour, or you can simply drive here with a scooter.

The pictures look absolutely insane and a bit unreal. This perfect reflection (is it really water) between these towering pillars with Mount Agung in the background looks like something straight out of Photoshop.

Entrance fee for Lempuyang Temple

To enter Lempuyang temple, you’ll have to pay for a bus transportation at the entrance of the temple. This bus travels 2km up a very steep hill to the famous gates. You cannot do this drive on your own and you must pay for the bus. In pre-covid times, big busses would funnel hundreds of tourists to the attraction. The cost was 50k IDR per person for this bus ride.

Once you arrive at the gates, you’ll need to pay another 100k IDR to enter the temple and take the famous photos!

Taking your famous Lempoyang Temple Photo

Once you enter the temple, you’ll see that there is of course no perfectly flooded reflection pool next to the gates. It’s just a bunch of people lined up waiting to get their photos taken. There is a photographer in the middle that is taking all of the photos with everyone’s smartphones.

He takes a piece of glass and very strategically holds it above your phone’s camera lens which creates the illusion that there is a perfect reflection. It’s absolutely genius because the photos do turn out ridiculously cool. Whomever thought to do this is a total genius. On par with the treehouse builder in Nusa Penida if I am to compare it.

In normal pre-COVID times, you can expect to wait 2-3 hours for your photo to be taken.

Tirta Gangga Temple

Shortly before the Lempoyang Temple is the famous Tirta Gangga Temple. It was a former palace used by royals in the past. Nowadays, it is famous for its ultra picturesque pond with a seemingly endless amount of koi fish to boot.

There are small platforms where you can walk out into the pond. The fish here are used to people feeding them so they will know to follow you in return for food. Makes for really nice photos.

Day 8-10: Sideman & Selat Area

Ubud is the most popular nature area of Bali. It’s famous for its ricefields, yoga studios, and tranquility but unfortunately it is also a huge tourist attraction.

If you truly want to get away from it all and be one with nature, then I’d recommend traveling further east from Ubud into the SIdeman area. A few days here and you’ll totally forget that Bali is busy and crowded. Most of the island is quite remote and the natural beauty of the island can’t e denied.

Staying at the Camaya Bamboo House

I spent two nights in the Sideman area staying at the ultra famous Camaya Bamboo House . These houses are famous and have been on numerous travel magazines as some of the most beautiful Airbnbs in the world.

They also made the netbeds famous all over Bali and the photos you can take from this beautiful property are amazing.

Montana Cafe For a view of Mount Batur

On the way to Sideman from Ubud, you’ll pass through the north of Bali which affords you absolutely amazing views of Mount Batur. The best place to view this mountain is from Montana Cafe. They serve amazing breakfasts and coffee with a dead on view of the mountain.

They even have a net bed where you can surely take some very Instagrammable photos overlooking Mount Batur.

Day 10-13: Uluwatu

Uluwatu is located in the southern tip of Bali and is one of the most beautiful parts of the island. It offers a totally different vibe compared to areas like Canggu/Seminyak and a completely different vibe to the jungles around Ubud.

Uluwatu is known for its beautiful long sandy beaches, cliffs, surfing, and upscale resorts. Uluwatu is definitely the spot to be if you’re looking for the big resorts and upscale hotels.

Visiting the Edge Day Spa

Uluwatu Temple

Pura Luhur Uluwatu is considered one of the six most important and most beautiful temples in Bali. Built in the 11th century, the temple is dedicated to the sea goddess Dewi and is said to protect the southern peninsula of Bali from demons. Like Tanah Lot , it is one of the seven sea temples that line the southwest coast of Bali.

To say it straight away: I wasn’t blown away by the temple. However, the location on the gigantic cliffs overlooking the sea is fantastic. So fantastic that wedding couples like to be photographed here in front of the sunset. The bad thing is that you can’t even visit the actual temple. So it’s more the environment that makes the attraction.

Sunset dinner at Jimbaran beach

Jimbaran Beach is famous for its plethora of outdoor seafood restaurants on the beach. They cook seafood in open air grill areas where you can choose your seafood before it is cooked. Before COVID, Jimbaran beach was always packed with locals and tourists alike.

The food is actually quite good depending on which restaurant you visit. I went to The Cuisine Cafe which was delicious.

Day 13-16: Nusa Penida

Bali actually is host to a few smaller islands nearby. To Bali’s southeast are the Nusa islands comprising Nusa Penida , Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan. I’ll summarize the itinerary here but make sure to read my full post on the Nusa islands if you are planning to come here.

For the next part of the itinerary, it is time to take a ferry over to the absolutely breathtaking island of Nusa Penida. I call Nusa Penida the ultimate Instagram island because you’ll find beautiful viewpoints everywhere you go.

Nusa Penida is also famous for its scuba diving which attracts Mola Mola and manta rays at different parts of the year. It’s not as good as the diving in Komodo National Park in my opinion but it is certainly one of the better places to dive in the world.

Bali to Nusa Penida Ferry schedule

There are multiple ferry companies that run this route. The times are constantly changing so there are not many totally reliable time schedules online. When you arrive at Sanur port, you’ll see a bunch of different booths selling ferry tickets. Just ask around to get the ferry leaving the soonest.

When I went to Nusa Penida in Jan 2022, the ferries left multiple times a day in the morning and afternoons. I took the afternoon ferry around 14:00. I know for sure there are ferry departures in the mornings around 7am and 8am. These are perfect for day trippers to Nusa Penida (more info on this later).

You’ll also find multiple departures coming back to Bali from Nusa Penida.

Cost of the Nusa Penida ferry ticket

The ferry tickets vary depending on the company you choose. I paid 240k IDR for round trip ferry tickets which was cheaper than buying two one way tickets.

The return ticket was flexible as I didn’t know how long I wanted to spend on the island.

I would recommend reserving tickets beforehand during high season months. As I was traveling around COVID, there was no problem getting tickets upon arrival.

Diamond Beach and thousand island viewpoint

Without a doubt, the most famous attraction of Nusa Penida is Diamond Beach. Located on the southeast of the island, you’ll need to drive about 40 minutes from the port town to reach this beautiful beach.

Diamond Beach is absolutely stunning. The white sand beach is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. There are also small rock cliffs all around the beach adding to its stunning beauty.

There are stairs built into the cliffside allowing you to walk down to the beach. These stairs are also where you can take some of the most stunning photos in Bali. You’ll also find a Bali swing as you descend the stairs where you can take beautiful photos as you look out into the ocean.

Once you get down to the beach, you’ll be greeted with crystal clear blue waters and incredible beaches. The waves can be strong at times so make sure to watch yourself.

This beach can get very busy during normal times with international and domestic tourists alike. The best time to visit this beach is in the late morning before the huge swaths of day trippers make their way over.

Nusa Penida Instagram Tree House

Located a few minutes from the Diamond beach is perhaps the most photogenic spot in all of Nusa Penida and perhaps even all of Bali.

The Rumah Pohon treehouse is one of the most well known sights in all of Nusa Penida and it was seeing the photos and videos of this tree house that really blew my mind originally when planning my trip to Nusa Penida. I really needed to see what all the fuss was about with this house!

Rumah Pohon treehouse nusa penida bali instagram

This treehouse is located on the cliffs with one of the most perfect views of the ocean. The Rumah Pohon treehouse is located in the same area as the “thousand island viewpoint” which is just one of the many stunning viewpoints in Nusa Penida. I actually found the views of Diamond beach to be more stunning but you’re coming here for the treehouse so that’s what you need to focus on.

To get here, you’ll need to park at the thousand island viewpoint entrance. You’ll pay the 10k IDR to enter the area and walk down about 200 stairs to where you’ll finally be greeted with this tree house.

While this picture might look like you’re in the middle of nowhere at the most picturesque treehouse of all time, that is sadly not the case. What you don’t see from these incredible photos are the people behind it collecting money in order to sit on its steps to take your photo. Yes, you’ll need to pay 50k IDR in order to take these photos! This is quite a lot but it doesn’t matter because people line up to get their photos taken .

As I visited during COVID, there was no one else here but the two guys told me that in normal times, people would line up for hours in the unforgiving heat to get their photos taken. There would be hundreds of people here waiting to get their photos taken!

The best time of day to visit the Rumah Pohon treehouse is definitely in the morning. The sunrise here is absolutely beautiful and you’ll want the rays of the sun to really light up your photo in the morning. They open at 6am and I would highly recommend coming here before 7am to get the best photos!

Kelingking Beach

Kelingking beach is yet another incredible viewpoint that is not to be missed. This actually might be my favorite view of the island and it’s not hard to see why this is the ultimate Instagram island.

You’ll see absolutely incredible views here of the rocky cliffs extending out into the sea surrounded by beautiful beaches and incredible water color. This place really reminded me a lot of the Ionian islands in Greece but maybe just a little more stunning!

From the top of the viewpoint, you are hundreds of meters above sea level. There are very narrow and steep stairs that lead you down to a beach that is as secluded as it is beautiful.

Visit the Gili Islands

The Gili islands are a collection of three small islands in the Lombok province just east of Bali. These three islands: Gili Trawangan (Gili T), Gili Meno, and Gili Air are a very popular group of islands that are perfect for getting away from the huge island of Bali.

I felt that Bali at times was just too big and getting from one area to another took forever. I suppose I had prepared myself for an “island” getaway but in reality, it’s anything but that. The Gili islands are just what you’re looking for in this case.

The three Gili islands are tiny. So tiny that scooters are forbidden on the islands and the only way to get around are by bicycle or horse carriages. Yes, I’m not joking.

The Gili islands are totally different from Bali! In normal times, Gili T is known as the party island with plenty of backpackers, scuba divers, and everything in between. There is a huge selection of bars and clubs on the island that will keep the party going until the early hours.

Gili Meno has become the couples honeymooner island with a more laid back pace of life with the famous underwater statues. Finally, Gili Air is something in between the two islands.

All of the islands have beautiful beaches and is more reminiscent of a traditional beach vacation. Normally, I would never go to Gili T as I’m too old to be partying with college kids until the early morning. However, I did come to Gili T during the COVID pandemic and it was completely dead which made it much more relaxing than in normal times. It was a bit too dead though to the point that there was literally nothing going on. A zombie village almost.

eri_kawagirl: Gili Meno island, Indonézia ?? Underwater statues #dnescestujem

How to get from Bali to Gili Islands

In normal times, there are regular ferries running from Bali to Gili at numerous times of the day. There are departures from Sanur and Pedang Bai with the ferries taking about 2 hours one way.

You can buy your tickets at just about any tourism agent stores or websties. Most tickets will include the cost of the ferry ticket as well as a shuttle transfer to the ferry station. You can expect to pay about 750k IDR per person round trip which includes the ferry ticket and the shuttle transfer.

Bonus: Extend your trip to Komodo National Park

If you have even more time to dedicate to Indonesia and are a big fan of scuba diving, then you must visit Komodo National Park. Komodo is world famous for its scuba diving and it is in my opinion one of the best in the world. The amount of marine life, beautiful corals, and manta rays will really blow you away.

In addition, Komodo is as beautiful underwater as it is above water. The mountain and desert landscape juxtaposed with the turquoise water is something special indeed.

Komodo National Park Batu Balong manta rays

I spent a lot of time in Komodo doing my divemaster certification so make sure to read my Komodo Scuba Diving guide if you’re keen.

Bonus 2: Extend your trip to Raja Ampat National Park

Komodo and Raja Ampat are easily up there as two of the best places to dive in the world. You won’t find much better than this in the world. If you’ve only dived in the Caribbean or Hawaii for example, it literally does not compare whatsoever to diving in Indonesia. Rajat Ampat is one of the most beautiful places in the world and if you get a chance, a visit will surely be worthwhile.

The best way to see Raja Ampat is by a liveaboard that sails through the archipelago visiting numerous dive sites and above ground activities. You actually don’t even need to dive to go on these liveaboards but rather just opt to snorkel and participate in hikes instead.

Otherwise, you could easily book a few nights at one of the numerous homestays or eco lodges in the area. From these lodging options, you can book a day trip to the numerous beautiful sights the park has to offer.

Bali two week Itinerary Day by Day Summary

Here I will summarize my Bali itinerary on a day by day basis. Again, this itinerary is just one of countless options you have at structuring your tirp.

Day 1: Arrive in Bali, transfer to Canggu Day 2: Full day Canggu Day 3: Full day Canggu Day 4: Canggu to Ubud Day 5: Stay in Ubud, visit the rice terraces, swing, and town of Ubud Day 6: Stay in Ubud, visit the rice terraces, swing, and town of Ubud Day 7: Ubud to Lempoyang Temple Day Trip Day 8: Sideman Day 9: Sideman Day 10: Uluwatu/Nusa Dua Day 11: Uluwatu/Nusa Dua Day 12: Uluwatu/Nusa Dua Day 13: Nusa Penida Day 14: Nusa Penida Day 15: Nusa Penida Day 16: Back to Bali and fly home

Bali 10 day Itinerary

If you’re visiting for a week and a half, this is still a decent amount of time to see the main highlights of Bali. I would structure my trip a bit differently. Remember, driving a scooter will make everything move much quicker and you’ll see much more!

Bali Resort and Instagram Itinerary

If you’re visiting Bali but want more of a traditional resort vacation type of experience, then I would recommend skipping places like Canggu. While Canggu is my favorite to stay for an extended period of time, it doesn’t offer the typical vacation vibes that you can get from staying in south.

The most beautiful and luxurious hotels in Bali are in Uluwatu and Nusa Dua. You’ll find large resorts like the Istana, The Edge, Bvlgari, Six Senses etc.

Day 1: Arrive in Bali, transfer to Uluwatu Day 2: Uluwatu Resort Day 3: Uluwatu Resort Day 4: Uluwatu Resort Day 5: Transfer to Ubud Day 6: Full day in Ubud Day 7: Full day in Ubud Day 8: Day trip to Lempoyang Temple Day 9: Day trip to Nusa Penida Day 10: Transfer home

Continue Reading:

The Perfect Bali, Indonesia Honeymoon Itinerary
Hotel Review: Tropical Glamping In Nusa Penida
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: Skip Ubud’s Tegalalang And Visit Bali’s Most Beautiful Rice Fields
The Ultimate Nusa Penida Travel And Diving Guide
The Ultimate Bali Neighborhood Guide: Where To Stay In Bali
Why I Love Living In Bali, Indonesia
Hotel Review: The Kayon Jungle Resort In Ubud, Bali

The Absolute Best Cafes In Ubud, Bali (2024)

Review Of The Camaya Bamboo House: Bali’s Ultimate Boutique Hotel
Cost Of Living In Bali: How Much It Costs Me To Live The Digital Nomad Life (2024)
The Best Beaches In Lombok: 8 Beaches For Paradise On Earth
Where To Stay In Canggu, Bali: Best Villas And Hotels For All Budgets
The Ultimate Guide To the Best Gyms In Bali: Canggu, Seminyak, Kuta, Ubud (Updated 2024)
Singapore Island Hopping: Visiting St John’s and Kusu Island

Honest Review: Atlas Super Club in Bali is The Best Place to Party

Gym Review: Wrong Gym Pererenan, Bali

The Perfect Sri Lanka Travel Itinerary: One Week, 10 days, and Two Weeks

Trekking With Orangutans in Sumatra: The Ultimate Guide

The Perfect Fiji Honeymoon Itinerary: One To Two Weeks

Where to Go in Bali: 1 Month Bali Itinerary Trip

18:07, 27 Oct 2022

Bali, a God Island, was everybody’s favourite place for several reasons. The combination of stunning scenery, lively cultures, beautiful rice fields, and delicious cuisine is something people are very grateful for. Whoever you are, a month in Bali is a month well spent. To help you out, we have a one-month Bali Itinerary for your best trip below. Let’s check it out!

Week 1: Canggu and Seminyak

Source: Freepik

To start your first Bali Itinerary, you can visit Canggu and Seminyak since the two places are neighbours. Both are the place to go if you are looking for trendy beaches with restaurants, bars, day and night clubs. If you want to eat well, Seminyak’s restaurants are the best in Bali.

Differences Between Canggu and Seminyak

However, there are differences between Canggu and Seminyak:

Seminyak is the busiest of these two destinations. It’s famous for its restaurants, designer shops, and luxury hotels, making it somewhat crowded.
Canggu, on the other hand, is much quieter and the town is surrounded by beautiful green rice fields so you never feel far from nature. Despite recent development, the whole place has managed to maintain a more traditional feel.

Choosing between the hustle and bustle of Seminyak and the more relaxed atmosphere of Canggu is a matter of personal preference, both have plenty of options for shopping, surfing, relaxing on beaches and spas, and finding great bars.

Also read: Top 5 Spots with Stunning Sunsets in Canggu

Week 2: Ubud

The second week you must visit for your one month Bali itinerary trip is Ubud. Ubud has a reputation for being the hippie capital of Bali. Canggu and Seminyak had popular clubs, but Ubud has the most luxurious tourist facility, Yoga Barn.

Ubud is an easy and relaxing place. If you like to party, explore Seminyak and Canggu before heading to Ubud. End the day with a massage, yoga or a meal at one of Ubud’s finest restaurants.

You’ll find streets lined with art galleries, wholesome cafes, yoga studios, and the creepy luxury shops that have managed to creep in over the years.

Ubud is also a great base for exploring other cultural heritage sites in Bali. It is a short drive from Tirta Empul, Gunung Kawi, and Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), three of the island’s most important and interesting religious sites.

Week 3: Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan

The Nusas are as beautiful a paradise as one could hope for. It’s a short boat ride from Bali, but it’s a far cry from the commercial and urbanization you’re probably used to. In The Nusas, you are truly disconnected from the outside world.

The water is clear, the jungle is dense, and the scenery is amazing. There are many things you can do on each island.

First, Nusa Penida is the largest but remains largely untouched apart from a few popular tourist attractions.
Nusa Lembongan, to say the least, is by far the most evolved.
Nusa Ceningan can be reached on foot or by motorbike across the yellow bridge that leads to Nusa Lembongan.

A week is enough here, but you can stay longer. Being cut off from the rest of the world is a beautiful and rare thing to do nowadays.

Week 4: Uluwatu

Uluwatu is the most beautiful place on the island. The endless cliffs crashing with extravagant waves you would expect from a place like Bali is breathtaking. Whether you go to Uluwatu Temple or Omnia, the cliffs are always there.

The sunset from Uluwatu Temple is the best you’ll ever see in your life. So, make sure to arrive on time for the breathtaking views and you can take some pictures for your memories. Also, Uluwatu is a shorter drive to the airport than other cities in Bali, so it’s a good city to end your one month itinerary trip in Bali.

Highly commited and passionate individual. Indah is an adaptive and responsible person who always eager to learn new things. She started her writing journey since Senior High School and currently she’s interested in SEO Content Writer, Copywriting, and Content Creation.

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Bali may not be a big island, but it is the kind of place you could spend a lifetime and still feel like you have barely scratched the surface.

A month may not seem like long enough (is any amount of time long enough when you are on a tropical island?!), but, with some careful planning, you should be able to get a good taste of all the island has to offer.

To help you out, I have put together a quick itinerary that, hopefully, has something for everyone, whether you are looking for mountains to climb, beaches to relax on, or towns to party it up!

How to Spend a Month in Bali

Nights 1 – 5: seminyak / canggu.

To start your adventure, I would recommend staying in the south of Bali. First of all, you’ll be close to the airport meaning you won’t have won’t have the hassle of a long drive when you get there.

Secondly, this is the part of Bali where most visitors choose to stay, there are plenty of things to see and do and it is great place to get acclimatized before heading off to explore the rest of the island.

Seminyak and neighbouring Canggu are two of Bali’s trendiest and most stylish neighbourhoods, both of which are known for their beach clubs, boutique shops where you can pick up Bali jewelry , and vibrant nightlife scenes. There are a couple of differences though that you may want consider.

Image credit: Andreia (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr

Differences Between Seminyak and Canggu

Seminyak is definitely the livelier of these destinations; it’s famous for its restaurants, designer stores and expensive hotels, and is a bit more at the centre of the action being so close Legian and Kuta (two of Bali’s other popular destinations).

Canggu, on the other hand, is a lot more quiet, and the town is surrounded by beautiful green paddy fields, meaning you never feel too far from nature. Despite recent development the whole place has managed to retain something of a more traditional feel.

Deciding between the hustle and bustle of Seminyak or Canggu’s more laid back vibe really is a matter of personal taste, but, both will give you plenty of chances to shop, surf, relax on the beach, or in a spa, and find some great bars / clubs to party the night away.

Our personal picks:

✯ Where to stay: Villa Zenitude

✯ Don’t miss: Tanah Lot – Bali’s famous water temple.

Nights 6 – 10: Ubud

Now that you’ve settled in, bought a few sarongs and knocked back a few Bintangs, its time for a bit of culture! For your second port of call, I’m suggesting you head into the highlands and check out some of the Balinese interior.

Unfortunately it does mean giving up the beaches (sob!) for a few days, but you’ll exchange them for rainforest, waterfalls and stunning mountains. The most popular town in this part of the island is Ubud.

Ubud is considered the cultural heart of Bali – basically, if you are looking to ‘find yourself’ then this is the place to go. In the early 20th century Ubud became renowned as a retreat for artists, local and foreign alike, and it has maintained a strong connection with the arts ever since.

What You’ll Find in Ubud

You will find the streets lined with art galleries, healthy cafes, yoga studios and the odd high-end store that has somehow managed to creep in during the last few years.

Ubud is also a great base from which to explore some of Bali’s other cultural gems, it is just a short drive from Tirta Empul, Gunung Kawi and Goa Gajah (the Elephant Cave), three of the most important, and interesting, religious sites on the island.

If you want to get up close to some Indonesian wildlife, the Monkey Forest, Elephant Safari and Bird Park are all close by Alternatively, if you would prefer a more action packed day, book a quad biking tour through the jungle, or go whitewater rafting down the beautiful Ayung river.

✯ Where to stay: Ulun Ubud Resort

✯ Don’t miss: The Ubud Royal Palace – go for one of the evening performances of Balinese traditional dance to get the full experience.

Nights 11 – 14: Lovina

Although the drive from Ubud to Lovina can be done in to 2 – 3 hours (depending on traffic and road conditions), it’s well worth setting aside a whole day for the journey, as it will involve travelling through some of the most beautiful parts of Bali.

Spend a few hours in Bedugul (take a jacket though; this is one of the few parts of Bali that is always chilly!), and the temple on the lake (Pura Ulun Danu). This is one on the most photographed in Bali, and the beautiful botanical gardens have a brilliant treetop adventure course.

The pace of life is noticeably slower on Bali’s north coast than it is further down south and it’s a great place to relax and soak up some of the island’s natural beauty.

Image credit: Shawn Huang (CC BY-ND 2.0) via Flickr

Things to Do From Lavina

Lovina is made up of 7 traditional villages and is famous for its black sand beaches. The focal point is at Kalibukbuk (look out for the dolphin statue), where you will find art markets, restaurants and a few bars.

Once you are done exploring Lovina itself, go west along the coast towards Gilimanuk to explore the West Bali National Park, or head up into the hills in search of waterfalls (Sekumpul and Gitgit are two of the most well known).

If you are into diving, go to Pemuteran Beach where you can dive on a submerged Hindu temple (it looks ancient but was actually constructed only a few years ago as part of a unique reef conservation programme).

✯ Where to stay: Puri Mangga Sea View Resort and Spa

✯ Don’t miss: Lovina Dolphin Tour – get out on the water to see the local dolphins at sunrise.

Nights 15 – 18: Amed

When the time comes to say goodbye to Lovina, jump on the coast road and head East. The journey to Amed will take you a couple of hours but its a pleasant drive on a good road, with mountains on one side and the sea on the other.

Amed itself is comprised of several sleepy fishing villages strung out along a 14km stretch of Bali’s east coast. The black sand beach is lined with colourful outriggers and the majestic Mount Agung (Bali’s biggest volcano) provides a dramatic backdrop.

Tourist development only began here a few years ago, and, although it is gaining in popularity, the area still has much to offer for those looking for a taste of traditional Balinese life.

Image credit: Tiomax80 (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr

Things to Do in Amed

Popular activities include learning about traditional salt production and doing spot of early morning fishing with one of the local fishermen, but, the real star of the show here is diving. Amed is known to have some of the best coral reefs in Bali and the waters just offshore are teeming with tropical marine life.

Experienced scuba divers come from far and wide to explore Amed’s underwater world, whilst those who prefer to stick to snorkelling can still see some amazing sites (no need to get a boat, you can just walk in off the beach).

If you fancy a day trip, the royal water palace of Tirta Gangga, with its beautiful gardens, is just 30 minutes away by car. Alternatively, you could head over to Mount Agung, either to climb the mountain, or, to visit Bali’s mother temple, Bersakih.

Just remember that Mount Agung has been active in recent months and check to see if there is an exclusion zone in place before you set off.

✯ Where to stay: Palm Garden Amed Beach & Spa Resort

✯ Don’t miss: The USS Liberty – dive on a WWII era shipwreck.

Nights 19 – 22: Nusa Lembongan

The Nusa Islands (Lembongan, Ceningan and Penida) are just a short boat ride from the Balinese mainland. Reaching them from Amed takes about an hour and a half, you will need to go by car to Pandang Bai and from their catch one of the daily public ferries.

The lifestyle on all three islands is often described as similar to how Bali itself was 30 years ago. You won’t find much in the way of nightlife (although there are a few bars and restaurants), but you will get the chance to explore an area of incredible natural beauty – dramatic coastline, mangrove forests and lagoons with the bluest water imaginable. Popular activities include, diving, hiking and cliff jumping.

I would recommend staying on Lembongan, it is the most popular of the islands and is connected to Ceningan by a bridge, giving you two islands for the price of one (if you want to go over to Penida, it is just a 20 minute boat ride away)!

Accommodation is amazingly cheap, you will find plenty of perfectly nice, but ‘no-frills’, double rooms for as little as $15 AUD per night. If you’re not afraid of spending the big money, you can get yourself a lovely room in a 4* resort, overlooking the ocean, for the princely sum of $45 AUD per night!

✯ Where to stay: Harta Lembongan Villas

✯ Don’t miss: Sunset at the Devil’s Tears on Ceningan

Nights 23 – 28: Nusa Dua / Tanjung Benoa

Finish off the trip by spending the last few days relaxing on the beautiful golden sand beaches of the Benoa peninsula.

Nusa Dua was one of the first parts of Bali to be developed for tourism, it is a small enclave of high-end resorts as well as a shopping centre, restaurants, a theatre and art gallery; some say it is a little sterile, but it is not without its charms.

If you would prefer a bit more local flavour, go to neighbouring Tanjung Benoa, you will still get the great resorts (along with a few cheaper accommodation options) but the street life is a little livelier.

The beach is great for water-sports and, at high tide, the water will be thronging with jetskis, banana boats and parasailors. At low tide, you can walk out to the reef, and there is no better way to spend the afternoon than strolling along the beach path, calling in at the odd beach bar on the way.

Other nearby places include Uluwatu (a well known clifftop temple) and Jimbaran, home to the famous Jimbaran seafood restaurants. As another plus, you will be close enough to all the main shopping centres of the south, perfect if you are still regretting not buying that designer handbag your saw in the first week.

Conveniently Ngurah Rai airport is only a 25 minute drive away, allowing you to absolutely maximise your beach time, before you have to leave for your flight and finally say goodbye to Bali.

✯ Where to stay: Nusa Dua Beach Hotel and Spa

✯ Don’t miss: All you can eat buffet brunch at the 5* Mulia resort

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Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild ; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

14 Comments

Oh…must be tough! But, I think I can hack it.

I know right haha, can’t beat a month in Bali :D

I definitely loved Nusa Dua/Nusa Lembongan and the north part of Bali. Way less people and felt more authentic.

Totally with you on that, I’ve found that even in the most well traveled destinations (like Bali), there are still always very authentic, local places if you know where to look :)

We have plans to make our first visit to Bali this year. Thanks for the great tips.

Have a fabulous time! Glad we could help :)

Great article. How about the Gilli Islands?

Glad you enjoyed it Ali :) Absolutely, I can highly recommend the Gilli Islands – we have a post on the islands here if you would like to read it too: https://www.mappingmegan.com/guide-to-the-gili-islands-indonesia/

Hope that helps – happy travels!

I would love to spend some time in Bali!

2020 is your year!

Hi Meg, Just found your great blog – so helpful for first and likely only trip to Bali. We’re planning on a month from Canada. November in our part of Canada is awful – dark by 4:30, dreary, first snowstorms etc so we’d prefer to be away. Is Bali still OK weather wise or would be better in October. I know Aussies go in droves to Bali in October but we’re retired teachers, love kids and Aussies are always fun. Advice? Next, we only snorkel so hopefully Lovina and Amed are still worth it? I don’t see Aling-aling anywhere or Leke Leke Waterfall or Campuhan Ridge Walk. Is there a reason they’re not on your suggested list? And Kintamani looks gorgeous too? Is it because we just can’t everything? Lastly, we love the beach, having none here, and would like to spend some time on a white sandy beach. Thought of Gili T. Where would you cut in order to add Gili T? The Pondok Santi looks amazing. Thank you

Hi Charles, thanks for reading, so glad our blog could be helpful for you :)

Yes, Aussies usually flood into Bali, though it’s likely we’re not going anywhere internationally this year, so you might have a rare opportunity to enjoy it without the normally huge crowds. Weather in October is amazing, around 27 degrees (celcius) every day and you benefit from the most daylight of the year. There’s really nothing wrong with November but as you get more towards the middle of the month it starts to be higher chances of rain. If you do have the choice, I’d pick October, but it’ll be amazing regardless :)

Absolutely re Lovina and Amed for snorkeling, and there’s the Tulamben wreck as well which you can do as a day trip from Amed and is a really unique experience. Not many places in the world you can go shipwreck snorkeling! Definitely there are some amazing waterefalls around Bali, for me it just came down to what you can fit into the time, but if you can move around your itinerary to prioritize those in, absolutely re being worthwhile. There’s definitely time within this itinerary though to fit in the Campuhan Ridge walk into one of the days in Ubud.

If you’re a fan of white sand beaches, Gili T will be paradise for you! You’ll love it! Most people catch the ferry to Gili T, you can also pay more for the fast boats. You can get boats from a few different towns so you could add this into the itinerary whenever you felt like it might be nice to change it up, whether that’s at the start, middle, or the end – can get the ferry from Serangan which is close to Nusa Dua, or Padang Bai which is an hour from Ubud, or catch one from Amed :)

Hope that helps, and hope you have an amazing time!

This is so amazing. I would love to do the same in November 2021.

Have a great trip! So glad the post was helpful :)

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Discover the World; Discover Yourself. Mapping personal evolution through adventure travel. We are Megan and Mike and have been traveling & blogging since 2007 inspiring travel and change!

I am Megan Jerrard, professional travel blogger/journalist with a focus on adventure, discovery, immersion and inspiring you to explore!

Best Time to Visit Bali: Month by Month Breakdown

Bali is one of the most popular islands in Southeast Asia, and deciding the best time to visit Bali is going to affect not only the weather you experience but also how many other tourists are there with you.

Like most of tropical Indonesia, Bali only really has two seasons throughout the year, the dry season and the wet season.

All year-round, it’s hot, and for many, Bali can be visited any time of the year, but between November and March, you can expect downpours most days during the wet season.

April to October is the dry season and you can expect larger crowds and higher prices but the weather will be perfect.

Often, the best time to visit Bali is a trade-off between the weather and the number of visitors.

To help you to plan your trip, here’s our guide on the best time to visit Bali.

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Indonesia (Country Guide)

Table of Contents

Bali Dry Season

LIna Stock of Divergent Travelers enjoying a beach in Bali

The dry season is the best time to visit Bali when it comes to the weather because for half of the year you can expect beautiful clear skies and almost no rainfall.

The dry season in Bali runs from May to October, although this can vary each year. The peak months are the height of the Balinese winter, which is June, July, and August.

May in Bali

May is the start of the official dry season in Bali, but you can still expect a mixed bag when it comes to the weather.

One year it could be raining all through May but the next it can be dry from as early as April.

If it does rain in May though it’s guaranteed to just be a few light showers, and this is the best time to visit before you hit the high season from June to August.

Prices will be lower in May and with the better weather, it’s a good time to start diving and snorkeling, as the water visibility clears up.

It’s getting cooler too and less humid, so a hike to the summit of Bali’s mysterious volcano, Mount Batur, can be a great activity in May, as you’ll miss the crowds and enjoy better conditions for hiking.

June in Bali

June is the start of the high season in Bali, although it’s not quite as busy a month as July and August. The weather is likely to be perfect with temperatures averaging in the mid-twenties and humidity low.

You’ll have to be really unlucky to see even a light rain shower, so it’s a great time to hit up the beaches and make the most of the clear skies and sunshine.

Prices start to climb in June, but you’ll miss the worst of the high season which picks up towards the end of the month when the European summer holidays begin in earnest.

In June you should visit the more touristy attractions such as the famous temples in the south – Uluwatu for instance – or the increasingly popular Nusa Islands before the summer crowds make their appearance.

July in Bali

July is usually the busiest month to visit Bali, but for good reason, and that’s because you’ll be enjoying the best weather of the year.

But as well as enjoying sunny, clear skies and zero rain, you’ll be sharing the beaches and resorts with hundreds of thousands of holidaymakers. People flock here from Europe, America and more than anywhere else, from Australia.

Prices will be higher for flights and hotels, but if you do want to escape the crowds then head north.

This is a great time to experience a side of Bali that most miss, and by exploring the black sand beaches of Amed or the coast and jungle of Bali Barat National Park, you’ll see how the south of Bali was a few decades previously.

August in Bali

LIna Stock of Divergent Travelers Adventure Travel blog enjoying a luxury resort in Bali

Much like July, August is always super busy in Bali. The weather is again beautiful, with clear skies and sunny days, and it’s a great time for lounging on beaches and drinking cold Bintang Beers.

If you want to escape the holiday crowds though then plan a trip north, and visit the beautiful coastline in more rustic destinations such as Lovina or Amed, where tourism has only recently begun to develop.

There are great snorkeling and diving up north too, including some famous shipwrecks, and as it’s the height of the dry season the water will be beautifully clear.

September in Bali

September can be the best time to visit Bali if you want a great mix of good weather and smaller crowds.

Things will still be busy and flights will be more expensive than the later shoulder season months. But you’ll save money compared to the true high season and have fewer people around when you explore touristy destinations such as Ubud, Kuta or the Nusa Islands.

October in Bali

October is a great shoulder season month, but the dry weather is coming to a close. There are more and more rainy days, but these can be unpredictable.

If you’re in Bali for two weeks, you’ll most likely have enough dry days to make the most of your visit.

Enjoy the south and the more traditional beach areas, get cultural in Ubud or escape to the north to see a wilder side of the island.

Bali Wet Season

The wet season in Bali runs from November through to April, corresponding with the southern hemisphere summer and fall.

It’s tropical, and that means that while it does rain hard when it rains, showers and storms are brief but fierce.

The rainy season can be a great time to miss the crowds but give December and January a miss because these two months are still incredibly popular despite the wet weather.

November in Bali

Lina Stock of Divergent Travelers Adventure Travel blog at a luxury resort in Bali

November is when the rainy season starts in Bali, but just how much rain there will be, can vary.

You’ll have good odds of having lovely sunny days still, and it’s a great time to visit because you’ll miss the Christmas crowds who are just around the corner.

You can get wonderful deals on flights and hotels through November, and you’ll still be able to snorkel and dive before the water gets too cloudy from the rains.

It’s getting hotter, but take a trip to the summit of Mount Batur and you’ll be able to cool down after a challenging hike to the top of Bali’s iconic volcano.

December in Bali

December is usually the rainiest month of the year, and weather-wise, this really is not the best time to visit Bali.

The tourist crowds would beg to differ though because while you might get soaked, it’s also incredibly warm still.

That draws over the Christmas crowds seeking winter sun from Europe and North America , and it still brings over the Aussie crowds looking for a cheap getaway.

It’s a lively time to be in Bali, and it’s not a bad place at all to spend Christmas and New Year, but be prepared for high prices and lots of other travelers and tourists.

January in Bali

January can be just as busy as December and unfortunately, just as rainy. This is the height of the wet season, but again, it doesn’t put off the crowds.

If you do visit, then the southern beaches and classic resort areas are best avoided. Head north instead, and find a bit more peace and quiet in the lesser-visited parts of Bali.

February in Bali

In February, the weather starts to cool down slightly and the rainy days begin to disappear, but it’s still very much the wet season.

It’s a great shoulder season month, right after the Christmas crowds go home, and you can enjoy many of Bali’s best sights with fewer people around.

Head to the waterfalls, as they will be in their element, and the jungle will be lush and green from all the rainfall over the last few months.

March in Bali

Shoulder season in Bali - Street with no travelers

March can be a wet month or it can be a dry month, the weather gods in Bali are unpredictable this time of the year.

It will be a quiet month on the tourism front though and that makes it the best time to visit Bali if you’re a fan of shoulder season travel.

The Christmas and New Year crowds are long gone, and the dry season tourists are a few months away.

You can get great deals on flights and resorts if you book in advance, and you’ll find that lots of beach areas in the south such as Kuta, Seminyak or Canggu are quieter.

This is Bali though, so if you’re here for the social aspects then there are always other travelers around to hang out with.

April in Bali

April is a great shoulder month, but be careful of the Easter Holidays in Australia or Europe, as Bali becomes a popular holiday break destination during this time of the year.

You could enjoy almost all sunny days or conversely it could also rain a lot, but that’s the gamble in April as the rainy season draws to a close.

It’s the tail end of the wet season though and Bali will be blooming, making this a great month to visit the waterfalls and the rice paddies before they start to dry out again.

Visit Ubud for cultural festivals and then hike through the rice terraces nearby.

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

Backpacking Bali Travel Guide 2024

Let me whisk you away for a moment. Are you ready?

Picture wind in your hair as you speed down a road that is surrounded by rice fields, glistening the most intense green you’ve ever seen.

Picture sand between your toes and water droplets dripping on your hands from an ice-cold coconut as you watch the skies go pink and purple and baby-blue above the ocean.

Picture stretching out to a downward dog as you hear the waves crash somewhere in the distance.

These are completely normal, everyday experiences in Bali. They’re not even up top in what this little island has to offer.

Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world which is why I was really unsure I would EVER visit Bali. Hadn’t I already seen the whole place on Instagram?

I promise you that you have not.

When you’re planning to backpack Bali on a budget, it’s important to know what to do. Where to go? What to do? Where do all the cool people hang?

This budget travel guide to Bali covers everything and more that you need to know for your trip. Soon you’ll be more than prepared for this amazing island.

A girl standing near Sekumpul Waterfall in bali indonesia

Why Go Backpacking in Bali?

Bali has a lot more to do than most islands of its size. Here you can eat, drink, lounge, surf, explore, relax, hike, dive, and much, much more all within the course of a week or two.

You could start your morning with a surf in the salty waves; spend the day driving from waterfall to waterfall; then end the night in a spectacular sunset with a cold beer (or a fresh coconut for ya health nuts). That is, before you hit the nightlife. Live music in a speakeasy? Stand-up comedy? Open-mic poetry? Getting absolutely shitface-wasted and dancing on the beach?

That’s just one day of Bali travel. This place is a paradise both inside and out.

People who come to Bali swear that there’s some special magic in the air. It’s the kind of sparkles that get travellers to come here “for a week” – next thing you know, you’ve applied for a two-year visa.

It helps that the lifestyle is fucking good. As a backpacker, I’m sure you can appreciate a sliver of hardcore rest&relaxation among your busy itinerary. Soak in a flower bath, get massaged for hours, or hit the gym – and all this for ultra-cheaply.

There is so much to do and see in Bali that trying to take part in everything may seem overwhelming at first. Luckily, this budget travel guide to Bali is here to help you sort through everything.

Prepare to rock out amigos. I’ll show you my favourite places to chill, party, eat and explore in Bali 🙂

Best Itineraries for Backpacking Bali

With so much to do, where do you start a Bali budget trip?

Lucky for you, I’ve created a few itineraries that show you a few of Bali’s best sides. Hopefully you’ll stick around and stay for a few weeks at least to check out all the best things to see in Bali!

Distances here are not insurmountable; the points in these itineraries are just 1-2 hours apart. If you’re brave enough to take a scooter to the infamous Bali roads, you’ll be backpacking Bali in no time at all.

5 Days Travel Itinerary for Bali: A Party Trip to Bali

Only have a few days to travel in Bali? No problem! With this 5-day itinerary for Bali, you’ll still get a taster of the Island of Gods.

A lot of backpackers end up in Kuta , but, frankly, I fucking hate Kuta. It’s tacky, busy and basically just a drinking area for young backpackers.

Of course if that’s what you’re after… then Kuta is an excellent spot to hang out at for a night or two.

After this, move on to Canggu to rest your hungover head on the beaches and instagrammable cafés for a bit. (Although you can also easily base yourself in Canggu for the whole thing and just go to Kuta to party.) If you need to get out, visit Tanah Lot to the north of Canggu.

Then head to the Bukit Peninsula, AKA Uluwatu. It’s possible to visit as a day trip but the cliffs offer some of the best sunset views on the island, so I recommend spending at least a night there! Plus, it’s closer to the airport than Canggu. Visit Uluwatu Temple and the famously beautiful beaches.

1 Week Travel Itinerary for Bali: The Highlands and the North

Many travellers argue that backpacking Ubud and the lush mountains of northern Bali require their own separate itinerary and for good reason – there’s so much to do here! Go rambling in the rice terraces; visit the many volcanoes in Indonesia ; have a spa day in one of the many jungle retreats… there are a lot of options.

For this 7-day itinerary for Bali, Ubud will be your primary base of operation. The town itself has stuff to see and explore for at least a day, and you can easily find tons of good day trips around there – just take your pick.

From Ubud, travel to north Bali to Lake Batur where you can climb Mount Batur at sunrise. It’s easily one of the top things to do in Bali! Lastly, travel down through the island to Canggu for a least day or two. Because if you went to Bali and didn’t even see one beach, did you even go to Bali?

1 Month Travel Itinerary for Bali: The Grand Tour

Got a whole month to spare for backpacking Bali? Good. This itinerary will take you all over: you’ll see the jungles, volcanoes, temples, beaches, dive bars, everything you can imagine!

Once you land, head to Uluwatu . Surf, enjoy sunsets, chill on hidden beaches, and visit some of Bali’s best temples.

From there, head to Sanur . You can spend a couple of days there but mainly it’s important as the port to the Nusa Islands. Base yourself on Nusa Lembongan from where it’s super easy to also check out Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida.

Return to the mainland and make your way to Kuta or Seminyak – if you want to party. If not, you can easily skip it and head right down to Canggu .

From Canggu, it’s an easy way up to Ubud and all of its surrounding waterfalls and jungle treks. Next, you’ll make your way to northern Bali; but make a quick stop in Bedugul . Here you’ll get to see the awesome Pura Ulun Danu Beratan temple and the nearby mountain lakes.

Spend a couple of days Munduk which IMHO is the best place for hiking in Bali.

Next up: Lovina . There’s not much to see so one or two nights is enough but it IS worth a stop to see the dolphins. From Lovina, travel to the mountainous Kintamani area to climb Mount Batur.

All righty. Had enough of mountains? Pop by in Sideman to hang out in some more nature before ending up in Amed on the coast. If you still have time, make a stop in Candidasa or Padang Bai, but eventually this itinerary is closing in Denpasar from where you can easily get to the airport.

Best Places to Visit in Bali

Now it’s time to cover the best places to visit in Bali more in-depth, so you know exactly where to go during your trip. From the most popular destinations to some hidden gems , this is where to go backpacking in Bali.

Note that the towns on the south coast of Bali are pretty much blended together with no visible city borders. Each area has a bit of a different vibe to others, though. My best advice is to base yourself in Canggu and commute from there to wherever you want to go!

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Backpacking Canggu

Visiting Canggu is my FAVOURITE thing in Bali! It feels worlds away from the chaotic, congested streets of Kuta and Legian. It’s still not quiet, though. This is where lots of expats and digital nomads in Bali have hung their hats so there’s always something going on.

Between yoga studios, vegan restaurants, a great surf beach, awesome nightlife, famous gyms… I fucking love it here. There’s just so much to do in Canggu ! Canggu is a village with a big city heart.

(Note: When people say “Canggu”, they usually mean all the other areas surrounding it, too. It’s a little bit confusing but if you hear people talk about Berawa, Pererenan or Umalas, you can just assume it’s Canggu-adjacent.)

Canggu has many beaches that have become popular for their surf as well as sunsets. Granted, they’re not super pretty – but they’re great for grabbing a sunset coconut. Echo Beach is the most famous of these, but Batu Bolong and Berawa Beach are good as well.

Some of the best bars in Canggu are Black Sand Brewery (great craft beers!), La Brisa (best shisha), and The Lawn (awesome place for sunset cocktails!) All these spots are pricey for Bali standards though so if you’re backpacking Bali on a budget, join the crowds at seedy dive bars, in front of mini-marts, or the bar at your awesome Canggu hostel .

If you’re a Digital Nomad visiting Bali, make sure to head down to Tribal Hostel for some networking, slamming the keyboard, chilling in the pool or sipping on a cold coconut from the bar. It recently opened its dorm and private rooms as well, so you can even make this your base for adventures on the island.

One of the top things to do in Canggu is to just hang out in cafés and restaurants. Canggu has an incredibly diverse and delicious food scene and the best coffee in Bali!

Don’t miss out on driving through “The Shortcut”, an infamous rice paddy road connecting central Canggu and Berawa. It used to topple careless foreigners and car drivers over all the time, but as of January 2022, Canggu’s once most-dangerous road has been re-paved and it’s sexier than ever.

When visiting Canggu, take a day trip to Tanah Lot . This temple is located on a rocky outcropping on the coast and it is one of the best things to do in Bali.

Backpacking Ubud

Ubud is the primary base for backpackers to explore the highlands of Bali. The “green heart of Bali” is a very lush and beautiful place, close to some of Bali’s best rice terraces, temples, waterfalls, and mountains.

Ubud itself is a collection of a dozen or so villages and all of them come together to form a decent-sized community. If you’re wondering where to stay in Ubud , keeping it central is a good idea.

Ubud is absolutely jam-packed with temples that come in all shapes and sizes. Nowhere else in Bali can you find so many religious sites and in such great propensity.

You have the epic Goa Gajah, Pura Kehen, the humble Yeh Pulu, and the Tirta Emplus, which has been the setting for many an Instagram snap. My real favourite is Gunung Kawi, mostly for its expansiveness but also for its ambience.

a couple taking a selfie with a monkey in the monkey forest of ubud, bali

Ubud’s Monkey Forest is very popular to visit for very obvious reasons – here, monkeys run freely among the wooded grounds and play with visitors. Be careful though: monkeys are fuckers and they will steal your snacks, iPhone, and probably soul, too.

Be sure to visit the Neka Art Gallery, Setiadarma House, Ubud Palace, and the Agung Rai Museum for some prime culture. Many of the best hostels in Ubud are within walking distance from its top attractions.

Ubud is all about the nature. You probably already know the Tegallalang rice terraces and the Campuhan Ridge Walk from Instagram but in real life , they’re also gorgeous. Just get up early to avoid crowds!

This town is also known for its hippies. Spiritual backpackers will feel right at home here, and it offers some of the best yoga in Bali.

Backpacking Kuta

Located west of Denpasar is one the longest and most developed areas on the entire island. Consisting of Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak, these buzzing neighborhoods offer not only lots to do but some of the best places to stay in Bali on a budget if you’re young and wanna drink a lot. Here you’ll find the bulk of shops and restaurants on the island as well as some of the most popular beaches.

Kuta definitely has a reputation for being pretty debaucherous and grimy. All of Kuta’s neighbourhoods are lined with countless dive bars, and by night wasted drinkers stumble around, trying their hardest not to fall off their motorbike taxis.

If you’re looking for the best parties in Bali, you’ll definitely find many of them here in Kuta. If this is your jam, book into a party hostel in Kuta and have yourself an absolute blast.

A group of friends talking outside a cafe holding surfboards.

It’s hard to say which bars are the best bars in Kuta. The beach bars are numerous and somewhat generic, though Sam’s Bar and the Capil Beach Bar do stand out. In the interior of the neighbourhood, you have classic establishments like Paddy’s Pub, Deejay Club, VH Bali, and the Hard Rock that are generally the go-to spots.

As mentioned before, nearly all of Kuta’s bars will have a certain seediness to them whether you like that kind of thing or not – there are a lot of working girls around, try not to be a dick and if you’re going to interact, treat these ladies of the night kindly.

Kuta also has a number of spas and yoga studios in addition to an impressive beach. Visiting any one of these makes for a good way to weather the massive hangovers. The beach itself is long and actually very nice although crowded. Kuta Beach still remains one of the best places to surf in Bali so long as you don’t mind sharing the beach.

Backpacking Seminyak and Legian

Seminyak is the most upscale area on the western beach stretch that includes Kuta and Legian.

This neighborhood is by far the most orderly of the three and has the most luxurious accommodations and restaurants. Prices here are consequently the highest of the three as well. But don’t worry – you’ll still find some cheaper backpacker hostels in Seminyak .

The beach here is still top quality but not so good for surfing.

Seminyak’s bars are well known for being very chique places where people like to go and be seen. Among the most famous establishments are Ku De Ta, Potato Head, Woo Bar, and La Favela, though there are many, many more worth mentioning (if we had more time!)

Be sure to dress nicely as it’s a bit fancier here than Kuta – I was turned away from one place on account of a tank top.

a coconut full of coconut water at a beach bar in Bali

If you’re finding staying in Seminyak a bit to bougie for your tastes, head a little south to the neighbourhood of Legian . Legian is great because it has a little bit of everything: some shopping here, some bars there, and plenty of beach in between. The vibes are not too extreme and the energy here feels much more stable.

The beaches of Legian are well kept and somewhat laidback. They are definitely more like Kuta than Seminyak though, with lots of shacks and happy hour offerings.

The shopping in Legian is diverse and you can find just about anything here. There are plenty of boutiques that sell more than just the usual Bintang shirts and phallic souvenirs though you can still find plenty of those latter items in Legian. Overall, prices in Legian are only slightly higher than those Kuta but less than Seminyak.

Bar-wise, Legian almost blends seemingly into Kuta as they’re very close to one another. Zanzibar Beach Front, Bounty Discotheque, Engine Room, and Sky Garden all worth visiting.

Backpacking Uluwatu & the Bukit Peninsula

Uluwatu is a surfer mecca! Located on the southern tip of the island, Uluwatu has legendary surf, gorgeous temples, and some of the most beautiful beaches in Bali. Uluwatu is, for lack of better terms, simply stunning and just really fucking cool.

Note: Again, the backpackers of Bali tend to simplify names. The whole area is known as Bukit Peninsula and Uluwatu is just a small part of it but pretty much everyone just refers to the whole deal as Uluwatu, so you should too 🙂

The landscape is distinctly more rugged and arid than the rest of Bali. Here you will find epic coastal cliffs and hidden coves that are just waiting to be explored. Some of the best beaches in Uluwatu include Nyang Nyang Beach, Balangan Beach, Bingin, Padang-Padang, and Suluban Beach , among others.

The waves in Uluwatu should be irresistible to big wave surfers. If you’re a beginner, stay out of the water! These waves are for experienced surfers – if you’re just learning, head down to Batu Bolong in Canggu.

One of the best things to see in Uluwatu is definitely on the western edge of the peninsula – an area that is referred to locally as “ Blue Point .” Built among the cliffs overlooking the sea, the hotels here are a pretty awesome sight. Grabbing a drink and watching the surfers catch waves as the sun sets is one of the best things to do in Bali as night approaches.

Also, you can’t miss Pura Uluwatu. This complex, perched precariously on the edge of a cliff, is one of the most impressive temples in Bali. Try to catch a kecak dance ceremony here.

On the eastern side of the Bukit Peninsula is the ultra-exclusive Nusa Dua area. It’s a gated community and pretty much a bore if you’re travelling Bali on a shoestring budget. If you’ve got some dough to spend, though, the fancy resorts can treat you like royalty.

Renting a villa in Uluwatu is quite heavy on the budget but luckily there are plenty of cheaper backpacker hostels in Uluwatu for those on a Bali budget trip.

Backpacking Sanur

Sanur is one of the oldest resort areas in Bali and maintains a pretty relaxed atmosphere. As such, Sanur is more popular with the middle-aged crowd and/or those with families who are just trying to avoid dealing with the madness of the western beaches.

Like any beachside resort worth two shits, Sanur has some great beaches to chill on. These beaches are notably devoid of the bars that litter the western shores, and are instead replaced by a well-maintained promenade.

This paved path is great for early morning jogs as well as bike rides with the family. Watersports – in particular, kitesurfing – are very popular activities in Sanur. Note that because it faces the east, sunrises are better than sunsets in Sanur.

Thanks to its central location in east Bali, Sanur is a great place to organize dive trips. The diving around Sanur specifically isn’t all that great but many of the island’s top dive instructors are in this area, so it still makes sense to organize dives here.

There are a couple of non-beach related activities around Sanur worth checking out. The La Mayeur Museum is a lovely gallery (and former residence) that exhibits the works of Belgian impressionist Adrien Jean La Mayeur. There is a beautiful Orchid Garden in Sanur as well as the Pura Blanjong , which is home to the extremely important Prasati Blanjong stone pillar.

One of my favourite secret-not-so-secret things to do in Bali is located right outside of Sanur – the Taman Festival park . This abandoned theme park is awesome for a couple of hours of urban exploring!

Sanur is also the gateway to Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida, both of which are among the best places to visit in Bali!

Backpacking Amed

Once one of the sleepiest, most impoverished fishing villages in Bali, Amed is now becoming one of the most popular diving destinations on the island! Set against the inspiring Mt. Agung, Amed has some of the best scuba diving and snorkelling in Bali, in addition to some stunning scenery.

Amed’s main attractions are mostly ocean-oriented. Between Amed and the local community of Tulambed , there are a plethora of dive sites to visit. There are several dive operators within either town that can organize trips out to the sites easily and affordably.

The USS Liberty wreck is one of the most awesome dive sites in the area as it has become a menagerie for aquatic life. There’s another popular wreck in Lipah Bay (known as the Japanese wreck which is also very accessible to snorkelers) and a contemporary “underwater gallery” in Jemeluk Bay .

Girl looks over view of Lake Kawaguchiko and Fuji-san in Japan.

The scenery around Amed is some of the best in Bali. Views of Mt. Agung are plentiful especially around Jemeluk Bay. There’s a place in Jemeluk that is particularly exposed to the mountain and it’s become popular with locals for its great sunset views. Its name is (not surprisingly) Sunset Point . You can see the sunset from a stand-up paddleboard in the bay or sip on a Bintang at the local bar (seats fill up quick!).

If you’re feeling invigorated by Mt. Agung , why not considered visiting or even climbing it?! Mt. Agung is only within an hour’s drive of Amed. The holiest temple on the island, Pura Besakih , is also located at the base of the mighty mountain.

Amed is also the best place to stay if you want to visit the famous Lempuyang temple. But don’t stick to the boring Insta-photos at the first gates – climb the hill to see a dozen other temples!

Backpacking Lovina

Located in northern Bali, Lovina is perhaps the most laidback of all the beach destinations on the island. Once a singular resort, named Lovina by a king, the term Lovina has come to refer to a greater collection of villages that have all become popular with travellers.

The black-sand beaches around Lovina are very calm, both in terms of crowds and tides, when compared to the more southern beaches. Because of the calm sea, diving and snorkelling are also popular activities.

a sign that says Kroya waterfall, with the waterfall in the background

Dolphin sightings are frequent in these waters as well, so much so that these animals have become a mascot of sorts in town. The famous Dolphin Statue crowns the central village of Lovina, which is officially called Kalibukbuk . Take an early-morning dolphin cruise, you won’t regret it!

What really sets Lovina apart from the rest of Bali are the nearby waterfalls. These cascades are the best on the island and exploring them is one of the most fun things to do in Bali. Popular falls include Gitgit, Aling-Aling, Singsing, Sekumpul, and Blahmantung .

Some other attractions around Lovina are the Air Panas Banjar hot springs and Brahmavihara-Arama Buddhist temple.

Backpacking Denpasar

Denpasar is Bali’s fast-paced and densely inhabited capital. Most who are backpacking around Bali just pass through here on their way to somewhere else and don’t see much of the city.

And to be honest – that’s the best thing to do. Denpasar doesn’t have a beach, it’s chaotic and heavily trafficked, and just not what you probably came to Bali for.

Still, it’s not all tragic. Denpasar has many temples, museums, and cultural centres to visit. It also has the best movie theatres in Bali in case you were craving a little normalcy during your backpacking trip. My best advice would be to base yourself along the coast – Kuta, Seminyak or Canggu – and drive up to Denpasar for the day.

a traditional balinese statue in denpasar, bali, Indonesia

Lapangan Puputan Margarana is probably the most prominent and important landmark in the area. At the centre is a large monument that commemorates Balinese independence through the celebration of the puputans – the original Balinese fighters who committed suicide to combat the Dutch.

Near the Puputan is the Bali Museum , which has a great collection of Balinese artefacts. Though the Bali Museum is perhaps the largest, there are several others that you can visit in Denpasar, including the Sidik Jari Museum , the Wedhi Budaya Cultural Centre , and the Interactive Art Museum .

Also worth seeing is the Taman Budaya Art Center – this building has a large amphitheatre that hosts many performances including dancing and music. This site is also the centre of the Bali Arts Festival.

Finally, there are a few noteworthy temples around Denpasar. Pura Sakenan, Pura Agung Jagatnata, and Pura Maospahit are all charming little shrines. The old Palace of Satria , once a royal residence, now serves as a holy place as well.

Backpacking Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida

For those looking to get away from the madness of mainland Bali, to find an island escape from a bigger island escape if you will, the Nusa Islands make for an awesome respite. Let the island hopping begin!

The Nusa Archipelago is composed of three islands: Lembongan, Penida, and Ceningan . Each one has different sorts of attractions and varying levels of development – Lembongan has the most infrastructure while Penida has the least; Ceningan is connected to Lembongan by a famous yellow bridge and is practically an extension of the island.

You can catch a boat between Lembongan and Penida easily; it takes only ten minutes. Lembongan has the best accommodation and restaurant options so that’s why I’d recommend staying in Nusa Lembongan .

Each of the islands has a similar ultra-rugged topography; think Uluwatu but more rough and epic. Rising prominently from the sea, these islands are protected by sheer, sometimes crazy coastal cliffs that are awe-inspiring to see. What few beaches there are usually hidden away from sight and are totally pristine. Finally, the water surrounding the islands is probably the deepest cerulean that I’ve ever seen.

a girl climbing down to a famous beach with cliffs and clear blue ocean in nusa penida

There are a couple of settlements spread throughout the islands that are like more down-tempo versions of Bali’s touristy areas. In these, you’ll find the usual joints like beach bars, organic cafes, and yoga studios. Lembongan has a tiny but active expat community as well, mostly centred around surfing and scuba diving.

You can start exploring the islands and visiting popular locations like the Devil’s Tear on Nusa Lembongan or the Blue Lagoon on Ceningan but be sure to blaze your own trail sometimes.

Being a much larger island, Nusa Penida has way more to see than its neighbours. The beaches of Atuh, Suwehan, Panadan, and Kelingking Beach are all worth seeing. My personal favourite was Diamond Beach. Nusa Penida is also the best place to see and swim with manta rays – and it’s absolutely magical.

Getting to the Nusas only takes about half an hour on a boat from Sanur or Padang Bai so I highly recommend checking them out if you have 2-3 days to spare in your Bali itinerary.

Off the Beaten Path in Bali

Between all of the traffic, resorts, and developments, there are definitely moments where Bali can feel less chilled than you expected. Thankfully, there are still parts of the island that are relatively untouched by mass tourism; places where you can really unwind and let your feet roam wherever they want.

Bedugul : Okay, this mountain village is not exactly offbeat – it’s home to Pura Ulun Danu Beratan , a water temple that is literally one of the most famous sights in Bali. Most people just stop by for the temple (and the Insta-famous giant gate that is, in fact, just a gate to a golf resort). However, it’s worth sticking around for at least one night. You can visit the Botanical Gardens, hike Mount Catur, drive up to the nearby twin lakes Tamblingan and Buyan, and explore the multitude of nearby waterfalls.

a girl walking on a log in front of pejeng kelod waterfall in bali indonesia

Munduk : Munduk is one of the best mountain getaways in Bali, and probably among the best places for hiking in Bali. This little mountain village is surrounded by green jungles and gorgeous waterfalls. Plus, since it’s up in the mountains, the crisp air offers some much-needed relief from the stifling Bali heat.

Sideman : Gorgeous and quiet, this area in east Bali is known for endless rice fields and epic views of Mount Agung. Check out some temples or hunt down waterfalls! My favourites in the area are Tukad Cepung and Gembleng waterfall.

West Bali national park: Still off the beaten path, maybe because it’s pretty damn far from everything else: 1.5 hours from Lovina and 5 hours from Canggu. This area of Bali is gorgeous, though. West Bali has some of the most unique nature in Bali, including flora and fauna that are not found anywhere else, and incredible snorkelling spots. If you’re planning to take a ferry to Java next, the park is basically on your route anyway, so it’s definitely worth a visit.

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Top Things to Do in Bali

Bali has oodles of awesome stuff to see and do, so where do you even start? Here is my shortlist of the ten coolest things to do in Bali for tourists, backpackers, and adventurous travellers alike. Don’t worry – all of these things are possible to try out, even if you’re travelling Bali on a budget!

1. Spoil the Hell out of Yourself

a girl going a yoga handstand on a beach

Whether you find your inner zen at a beach bar or in a yoga studio, Bali has no shortage of ways to relax. The best way to really pamper yourself is a spa day. Get a Balinese massage; they’re like 6 bucks an hour, making luxury very attainable even for backpackers on Bali on a budget. Go to a breathwork session or take a dip in an ice bath. Or try out a flower bath – it might sound ridiculous but it’s incredibly relaxing.

2. Go Surfing – or Watch the Pros

Bali has some of the best surf in the entire world and so attracts some of the greatest talents. Take a shot at riding some truly tubular waves or, if you’re not feeling up to it, just kick back and watch the pros while you sip your cocktail.

3. Visit One of the Many Temples

Bali is home to dozens of temples and each one has something unique to offer. Be sure to visit at least a few while staying on the island. Many travellers have even taken it upon themselves to see them all (on a pilgrimage of sorts) while backpacking in Bali.

a hindu temple in northen bali, indonesia

4. Get Fit!

Without a doubt, Bali is one of the best places in the world to get fit. With plenty of tasty, healthy eating options, yoga centres, world-class gyms and the best Crossfit Box in Asia – Crossfit Wanderlust – it’s truly my favourite place in the world to settle down and get fit.

Or, if you’re just passing through, almost any gyms will also allow drop-ins for a class 🙂

5. Do Go Chasing Waterfalls

Resist the urge to burst into the TLC song as you make your way from waterfall to waterfall. Bali has HEAPS.

Bali’s most famous waterfalls are also unfortunately super crowded. Come with patience; if you want your picture taken, you sometimes have to wait for an hour. Or even better: get up ultra-early to beat the crowds. The sun in Bali rises at 6am, no excuses 😉

a bintang beer, with a waterfall in the background in indonesia

6. Swim with Manta Rays

Bali is an absolute wonderland for underwater life. Wanna see squid? Check. Whale sharks? Check. Rare, funky-looking fish? Check, check.

One of my favourite experiences has been swimming with manta rays in Nusa Penida’s Manta Point. These gentle giants are breathtaking, and you can easily spot them even with a snorkel – no diving needed!

a guy putting on snorkeling gear to swim in the ocean with manta rays in nusa penida island , indonesia

7. Hike Mount Batur at Sunrise

A sunrise hike to Mount Batur is by far one of the most fun things you can do in Bali. You do have to get up at 4 a.m. but once you reach the top and can spot the shape of Mount Rinjani in the distance – that’s why life is worth living, babey.

8. Grab a Sunset Beach Coconut in Canggu or Uluwatu

The western beaches of Bali are renowned for offering some of the best sunset views in Southeast Asia. Whatever you may be doing, be it lounging at a beach bar or hanging out on a surfboard, be sure to stop what you’re doing and tune into the setting sun. And make sure to order an ice-cold kelapa to go with it.

9. Walk through the Hills and Rice Paddies

There’s something enchanting about the highlands of Ubud. The way the morning light reflects in the rice paddies, the occasional mist that settles in the trees, the ethereal sounds that the jungle emits; few places in the world can imitate these aspects of Bali. Just go for a walk around and feel the magic.

a girl on a swing with a white dress on and a flower in her hand with rice fields and palm trees in the background

10. Immerse yourself in Balinese culture!

As a Hindu island in the middle of Muslim-dominated Indonesia, Bali is a bit of a cultural microcosm. Its religion, stories and history are truly some of the most fascinating in the world.

Take part in a Bali festival – there always seems to be one going on – or just start conversing with locals to get to grips with this unique island.

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Backpacker Accommodation in Bali

I know all you budget backpackers are wondering, is Bali cheap? Sure, it is a little pricier than some other places in Southeast Asia but still very budget-friendly compared to Europe or the USA.

Private villas are the best places to stay in Bali if you’re craving a bit of luxury – a backpacker probably can’t afford a villa in most other places in the world. They are usually very well maintained, comfortable and well serviced. However, they are still the pricier option, especially in the Canggu-Seminyak-Kuta axel.

You can also book a bungalow in the middle of the jungle that has next to nothing except for good views and vibes, or a fancy Bali treehouse overlooking ocean views! Either way, whilst these are not exactly cheap accommodation options, they ARE super good value and a very unique experience to have.

a treehouse in the jungle of bali, indonesia

If you’re not going to stay in a hostel, your best option is to stay at one of the epic Airbnbs in Bali .

Hostels in Bali can be a very, very good time depending on what you want. The ones around Kuta will obviously be more party-centric while those in Ubud will be more laid-back, with plenty of epic surf hostels thrown in the mix. There are a couple of hostels located off the beaten track that will be very low-key and finding these are half the fun!

Hostels are the best option for backpackers on a budget in Bali. A dorm bed usually costs around $10 USD per night but you can definitely dig deep and find something even cheaper than that.

Staying in a hostel doesn’t mean living without any luxuries. There are plenty of amazing places that offer you some real bang for your buck. Take Tribal Bali for example – a hostel specifically built for Digital Nomads and backpackers that value quality and comfort, located just minutes from the beach and amazing cafes.

Another great option for staying in a backpacking Bali budget are cheap guesthouses. You can easily find a very decent private room for as low as ten bucks a night, and guesthouses often also come with an attached pool. All the luxury for a fraction of the price!

You can also find cheap villas in areas outside the main tourist spots. Villas in Kerobokan , for example, are more affordable than the center of Seminyak.

The Best Places to Stay in Bali

Bali has many a town to lay down your backpack for a bit. Here are the best places to stay in Bali on a budget, featuring the best backpacker hostels in Bali and a few epic Airbnbs!

Backpacking Bali Costs

Bali is one of the most affordable luxury destinations in the world where even the most frugal of backpackers can find awesome lodges for a decent price.

How much does it cost to travel in Bali ? For the average backpacker, a comfortable daily budget for backpacking Bali would be around $30-$50 per day . This will get you a dorm bed, food, transport, and leave plenty for beer and attractions. A 1 month in Bali budget could be as low as 1,000 USD.

Personally, though, my Bali travel costs ended up being significantly more because I was eating in awesome healthy restaurants and well… partying.

Broke backpackers can also thrive in Bali, though. If you use a scooter to get around, stay in cheap hostels in Bali, eat mostly local food and don’t want to splurge for expensive activities like surfing or diving, your daily budget could be even around $20 USD.

a girl smiling walking down a paved path down a cliff to a beach in nusa penida

Aside from Couchsurfing or camping , backpacker hostels or cheap guesthouses are the best budget accommodation options in Bali. For less than $10/day, you can stay at a good hostel in Bali; paying anything more than this could land you in some pretty spectacular digs.

Local food is inexpensive in Bali. A meal at a warung – a local restaurant – costs about $2-4 USD.

If you eat in Western restaurants, expect to pay a whole lot more. It’s easy to spend $20-30 USD on food only if you don’t watch it! Hunt around for deals – lots of places do breakfast + coffee combos for just a few dollars.

I highly recommend eating out while backpacking in Bali. Going out to a nice restaurant is still comparatively cheaper than in the West, and Bali – especially Canggu – has INCREDIBLE food.

If you insist on getting drivers around the island, your transportation budget will definitely be big. Public transportation isn’t really a thing in Bali, other than around the capital Denpasar.

The absolute best and cheapest way to get around is to rent a scooter. A daily rent for the smallest bikes could be as low as $5. It’s best to rent for a whole week or a month, then you can easily find a bike for $40-50 for a month. This is your trustiest steed for all the adventures around the island 🙂

If you’re not super comfortable on a bike, you also have the option for motorbike taxis. A 10-minute ride on one costs about a dollar.

This is where it’s very easy to blow up your budget!

A small local beer, Bintang, costs about $2.

Beer prices in Bali in nicer places can be double that, though, so if you’re backpacking Bali on a budget, avoid the fancy schmanzy spots.

Cocktails are expensive – importing booze to Bali is pricey so fancy drinks come with a price as well. If someplace is offering drinks too cheaply, you should actually be cautious since “fake alcohol” has sometimes been a problem and caused some cases of alcohol poisoning.

Another point that can make or break your budget…

There are heaps of free or ultra-cheap things to do in Bali. For example, waterfalls are either free to enter or cost about a dollar. No problem there.

Gym classes can be kinda pricey on a shoestring budget, about $10 a pop. Of course, you could just go to a weightlifting gym for way cheaper than that.

If you want to try surfing, diving, paragliding or any other fun special activities, prepare to throw some more money in.

Bali Daily Budget

Whether you’re a broke backpacker backpacking Bali on a shoestring budget or a bougie babe trying to get the best value for your money, you can definitely travel Bali. Here are some example budgets of expenses in Bali.

Money in Bali

The official currency of Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). In February 2022, the exchange rate of the Rupiah is roughly 1 USD=15,000 Rupiah. Yes, for just a hundred USD, you could be an Indonesian millionaire!

Due to huge economic inflation in the past, the Indonesia Rupiah has lost value over the years and as such is now printed in the thousands. Most Indonesians completely disregard the last 3 zeroes anyway; often you’ll just end up bartering as if those last 3 zeros didn’t exist.

For example, if you offer someone 10, they’ll understand that you mean 10,000.

Money changers are ubiquitous in the urban areas and offer different rates. Walk around and find the best rates for your particular currency. Be mindful of shady dealers who don’t post their rates. Also, note that older USD bills are no longer accepted.

a large amount of Indonesian Rupiah in Bali

ATMs are widely available in Bali, especially in busier areas. If you think you’re going somewhere pretty remote, it’s definitely best to take out cash in the city beforehand.

Many people have reported fraudulent charges though after using a random ATM. When withdrawing cash, it’s usually best to use the ATMs inside banks. Many unfortunate travellers have also got their cards swallowed up by greedy ATMs so make sure you’ve got a couple of cards with you!

Speaking of travel banking like a pro…

For all matters of finance and accounting on the road, The Broke Backpacker strongly recommends Wise – The Artist Formerly Known as Transferwise! Our favourite online platform for holding funds, transferring money, and even paying for goods, Wise is a 100% FREE platform with considerably lower fees than Paypal or traditional banks. But the real question is… is it better than Western Union? Yes, it most certainly is.

Travel Tips – Bali on a Budget

Bali is cheap – but there’s no reason you shouldn’t get even cheaper. There are tricks to make your pennies go EVEN further!

Try out these budget tips, tested and tried by years of budget backpacking :

a girl holding a surfboard on top of her head as she walks up the stairs with the beach and palm trees in the background

Camp: With plenty of gorgeous places, Bali can be a great place to camp in rural areas. Or, if you’re feeling really adventurous and want to save some cash, consider picking up a backpacking hammock.
Cook your own food: If you are on a tight budget, you can save money by cooking your own food. I recommend bringing a portable backpacking stove.
Find deals: TONS of places do promos and specials. Ask around, and you might find breakfast and coffee for just a few dollars!
Book your transportation early: Both plane and bus tickets are much cheaper if you purchase them in advance.
Couchsurf: Balinese are awesome, and I am so grateful I was able to explore its cities with local friends. Check out couchsurfing to make some real friendships and see this country from the perspective of locals.
Pack a travel water bottle and save money every day! Tap water in Bali is not drinkable but every guest house and villa will have a water cooler where you can fill up.

Why You Should Travel to Bali with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful!

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Tl;dr – STOP USING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC! If you’d like some more tips on how to save the world , be sure to watch the video below.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress rigorously from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Best Time to Travel to Bali

The island really has one of the best climates on the planet and, for this reason: you can visit Bali any time of the year .

Bali only has two distinct seasons: the rainy season and the windy season.

driving through the flooded streets of Bali during rainy season

The rainy season runs officially from December to March. In the past few years, though, the rain’s got a little funny, and the season might even run from October to April.

Look, it’s not that bad. Travelling Bali during the rainy season can still be a super great experience. Sometimes it rains an entire day straight with no relief, but often the doom&gloom only happen in the evening, leaving mornings for exploring.

When it rains, it RAINS. Streets flood, sometimes villas flood, and the thunderstorms are fucking intense.

IMHO, the windy season (AKA the dry season) is the absolute best time to visit Bali. It runs from about April to November, and it’s considerably drier than the rainy season. Sometimes it doesn’t rain at all for days or even weeks. It’s a breezier time to be in Bali as the wind takes away the worst of the tropical heat and humidity.

Plus, the wind means kites – and the Balinese kites are a really remarkable thing. You’ll see them in swarms in the sky day and night (night kites have LED lights), and there’s even a kite festival in Sanur.

Temperatures barely fluctuate throughout the year but they can feel higher when it’s more humid.

Bali’s meteorological consistency is very apparent on a macro level e.g. the whole island is subject to the same lovely weather. On a micro level though there are some unique weather conditions in Bali.

The highlands of Bali (i.e. the regions around Ubud and Bedugul) can receive rain at any time of the year. The mountains, in general, are less hot and humid than the lowlands, and in the evenings you should arm yourself with a sweater or a jacket.

Note on Nyepi:

Nyepi, or the Balinese Day of Silence, is a truly unique day in the Balinese calendar. It is a day when the entire island stops and quiets for 24 hours – literally.

No electronic lights are allowed on, no loud speaking or music either, and you are absolutely forbidden to go out to the streets. (This means no food delivery either – get ready for a home-cooked meal!) Even the airport stops.

Nyepi can be a super magical and unique thing to experience in Bali and a good moment to be quiet and reflect during your backpacking trip, but if you’re on a tight schedule, you should absolutely avoid Nyepi since you won’t be able to leave your accommodation at all.

Nyepi usually takes place some time in March.

What to Pack for Bali

When it comes to crafting the perfect Bali packing list , you might be interested in a few tips. On every adventure, there are six things I never go travelling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl GeoPress Water Filter and Purifier Bottle

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Staying Safe in Bali

Bali is one of the most popular places in the world to travel to, and as such suffers from many of the blessings and sins that come from rampant tourism. Now don’t get stressed – Bali is safe to travel . However, you should never go off to the world without taking some precautions.

Scams and theft are the most common form of crime in Bali. Both of these are avoidable with common sense. Be sure to keep your personal items close at hand and be alert in dangerous places e.g. dark alleyways and shady businesses. You could also consider getting a money belt !

Lots of phones get stolen in Bali. This is not Brazil; you’re not gonna get mugged for your valuables, and it’s totally OK to have your phone out on the street to check for directions or whatever. Just take note of motorbikes driving by as they are sometimes known to snatch phones off people’s hands. And if you’re driving yourself, for hell’s sake, don’t keep your phone in the glovebox. At night especially it’s best to keep your bag under the seat.

The biggest hazard to your safety is the traffic. It’s INSANE in Bali. It looks scary but it’s actually pretty much more dangerous being a pedestrian than driving yourself. Serious accidents are rare but little bumps and scratches do happen a lot. Wear your helmet!!!

a girl taking a selfie wearing a helmet as she rides on the back of a scooter.

In terms of natural hazards, there are some. Small earthquakes happen a lot and are pretty much harmless. Part of Bali is in the tsunami zone but that kind of an event would be extremely unlikely. Mount Agung, the biggest mountain in Bali, is an active volcano. It last erupted a few years ago but you know, it’s a possibility.

The seas around Bali are very strong and can carry you away very quickly – exercise greater caution and look out for warning signs when entering the water around Bali.

Watch out for monkeys. They’re generally chill except for the ones at Ubud’s monkey temple, which are total bastards. They may steal your sunglasses, and they may bite. If you get bitten by a monkey (or any other animals in Bali for that matter), go get treated for rabies!

In general though, Bali is safe – just take normal backpacker’s safety precautions .

Sex, Drugs and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Bali

Let’s be frank: Bali is kind of a shitshow at times. Though what do you expect when you throw a bunch of backpackers, Australian holidayers, and overly-welcoming locals on the same island?!

Before you start to think that Bali is Hamsterdam and there are no rules, some things need to be said.

Indonesia, on a federal level, is very, very anti-drug. Do NOT get caught with drugs in Indonesia.

Many have probably already heard this, but there are cases where tourists are incarcerated or even sentenced to death for drug possession. People have been locked up just for having a joint on them, and unlike other Southeast Asian countries, the police in Indonesia are not so easy to bribe.

Taking drugs on the road is fun but in Bali it’s too much of a hassle and not worth the risk. If you want to smoke – take a boat to the Gili Islands or track down a reggae bar. Always party responsibly.

Young backpackers dancing on a bar whilst partying in Cambodia, Southeast Asia

So, on to alcohol. Indonesia is a mostly-Muslim country with Bali being a little hedonistic oasis in the middle of it all. Drinking is fine in Bali, and both foreigners and Indonesian do it rampantly (too much, some might say). Domestic beer and imported spirits are readily available and safe to drink. Drinking is however pretty expensive in Bali.

Special caution should be noted around local moonshine. As the government doesn’t make alcohol production easy on an industrial scale, many local businesses have turned to making their own. These brews aren’t made with the safest standards and may cause serious alcohol poisoning. Take caution if someone hands you something mysterious or if your mixed drink tastes funny.

Just a note on dating: for those looking for some love or sex on the road , Bali might be an island paradise for you. The dating scene here is as much of a shitshow as the party scene in general but hey, you were gonna have to experience your first threesome some time anyway.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Bali

Just ’cause you’re lounging in an island paradise, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be prepped for a rainier day. Did you sprain your toe surfing? Get into a scooter crash? Medical care in Bali is expensive without insurance. Don’t become another GoFundMe going around local Facebook groups – take care of yourself beforehand.

A savvy backpacker should always consider getting a comprehensive travel insurance policy before leaving home.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

How to Get into Bali

Arriving in Bali is very easy.

Those arriving internationally will have to arrive by plane, passing through customs in either Ngurah Rai International Airport or another Indonesian airport. Those arriving by sea will have slightly more options and flexibility.

Most people backpacking Bali will arrive directly at Ngurah Rai Airport in Denpasar via an international destination. When you arrive, travellers will have to pass through customs and get an Indonesian visa if they haven’t already done so.

a girl smiling and making a silly face taking a selfie with a local in indonesia

If you’re coming in from elsewhere in Indonesia, you can fly in. Often you also have the option to arrive on a ferry. Boats ply the waters between Java, Lombok, and Bali frequently via individual ports. Note that punctuality and to some extent safety are questionable standards on these boats.

Entry Requirements for Bali

Since 2016, Bali is now among one of the Indonesian ports of entry that dispenses free visas on arrival for tourists. These visas are available to more than 100 nationalities and have certain requirements – the most important being that the traveller must only be visiting for tourism purposes and cannot stay longer than 30 days. Extensions are not possible with free VOAs.

Those who wish to go backpacking longer in Bali and Indonesia must apply for a standard visa in advance which can then be extended. For more information on official visa regulations in Bali, please refer to this website here .

an air asia airplane at the airport with the sun setting in the background

I found that I was able to convert my 2 month tourist visa to a social visa once in the country through a visa agent (cost about $30 for each month) and thus stay for up to six months.

Note that you DO NOT want to overstay your visa even a little bit. The day you arrive and the day you leave are included in the duration of the visa. Each day of overstaying is fined 1,000,000 IDR – about $60 USD.

How to Get Around Bali

Bali can seem like an overly chaotic mess of scooters, taxis, and minibuses at times. The south coast and its towns are a special hellscape for traffic.

There is a certain method to this madness, though. You won’t notice it until you’re driving in Bali yourself but there is a rhythm to the chase of the road, and you soon learn to go with its flow.

Travelling by Scooter in Bali

As part of a Southeastern Asian nation, the scooter is king when it comes to getting around in Bali. Driving one is super simple so anyone can pick it up, and it’s the option that offers you the most freedom and fun.

Most hotels will have a personal fleet of scooters available to rent; otherwise, there are several shops around. You can normally get a scooter for around 70,000 Rupiah a day. This can be even cheaper if you rent it for a week or a month.

two girls on a scooter in Bali, Indonesia holding a small dog and with a surfboard hanging on the side of the scooter

I highly recommend getting a scooter in Canggu, for example, driving it all over the island on your adventures, then returning it to Canggu at the end of your holiday.

Just note that you’re required to have an international driver’s licence in Bali. Literally no rental place will care if you don’t have one but I HIGHLY recommend having one anyway: if you get stopped by the police without a valid licence, you’ll either get fined or have to bribe your way out, and if you get into a crash, your insurance won’t cover your costs if you were driving without a valid licence.

Other Forms of Transportation in Bali

Taxi – Bali does have its regular taxis and motorbike taxis. They also have a legit taxi mafia that likes to overcharge tourists. Download a rideshare app instead. In Bali, the ones used are called Grab and Gojek (Gojek is a brilliant name – “ojek” in Indonesian means “motorbike taxi”.)

Motorbike taxis are the best way to get around city clusters but if you’re headed further, say, Kintamani, you could consider hiring a driver if you’re not comfortable driving yourself. You can also get a one-way car ride through Grab and Gojek to nearer destinations.

Car – Yes, people do rent their own cars here, but I do not recommend this if you can just stay upright on a scooter. The roads in Bali are narrow and congested, and taking a car anywhere takes 3x longer than a scooter.

Walking – Don’t even dream it. There are some sporadic sidewalk areas, otherwise you’re always in danger of getting mowed down by erratic drivers!

Hitchhiking in Bali

Hitchhiking in Bali and Indonesia uses a different method for hailing a car. No one uses their thumb in Indonesia but instead waves or maybe points their thumb to the ground.

Never use your left hand as, since this is a Muslim nation, it is considered the “unclean” one. Try to learn a bit of Bahasa Indonesia or Balinese as well; doing so will make your life much easier.

These cultural differences aside, hitchhiking is as straightforward in Bali as anywhere else.

To be fair – I’ve never heard of anyone hitchhiking in Bali. It’s not much of a thing here. You could always try it but be prepared that finding a lift might be tough. Not because drivers aren’t friendly – they’re SUPER friendly – but because most vehicles on the road are motorcycles, tourists in hired cars and small trucks with no space for an extra passenger.

Onwards Travel from Bali

Bali is actually an excellent starting point if you’re looking to explore more of Indonesia. Which you should – it’s an awesome place.

Note that when you get your visa for Bali, it’s valid for all of Indonesia! Just don’t overstay 😉

The Gili Islands – A group of 3 islands off the coast of Lombok that could easily rival Bali in terms of beauty and good times. Direct ferries are available from Padang Bai, Bali, and there are great hostels on all Gili Islands . The main island is Gili Trawangan , known as the party island; as such, it’s the most popular among backpackers. Gili Meno is the laid-back island more popular with families and couples. Gili Air is a chill island where you can snorkel and trip on shrooms.

Lombok – Backpacking Lombok is great for grand adventures. You can take a 3-hour ferry or fly cheaply from Denpasar to get to this island that’s more arid and underdeveloped than Bali. The main draw is Mount Rinjani , a gorgeous volcano trek. Kuta (not to be confused with Kuta, Bali) is an awesome little surfer village in the south with amazing beaches.

mount rinjani summit lombok backpacking bali

Flores – Beyond Lombok is Flores, which is even wilder and more sparsely populated than Lombok. It contains some of the most beautiful places in Indonesia including Komodo Island, Kelimutu, and Bajawa . Flores can be reached by plane or long-distance ferry. Taking a cruise around the Komodo Islands is one of the best things to do in Indonesia!

Internationally , Bali is also an excellent launchpad for other adventures around Southeast Asia and Oceania. Bali’s international airport operates cheap flights to all other nearby destinations. Bali is just the start of the adventure!

Java – The most populated island in Indonesia is Java, easily accessed from Bali. Jakarta is its most famous city but don’t skip visiting Yogyakarta either. Backpackers can catch a direct bus at Ubung terminal in Denpasar, which includes the ferry across the narrow strait and arrives in Surabaya. Travellers can also stop short in Probolinggo for Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park for some grade-A hiking.

Backpacking Singapore
Backpacking Malaysia
Backpacking the Philippines
Backpacking Australia
Backpacking New Zealand

Working in Bali

Listen, let’s be honest – actually, legally working in Bali is kinda tough. To get a real work visa, you need to be employed by an Indonesian employer. This can be tough to find since Westerners are usually more expensive to hire than Indonesians.

It’s not impossible, though, and there are possibilities to work for example in teaching English or as a trainer at a gym. For these kinds of jobs, you don’t really even need to know Indonesian (although it’s good form that you do).

Most foreigners that come to Bali and want to stay long-term legally while also working end up starting their own companies. Note that this is different from being a digital nomad – to be able to start a business in Indonesia, you also need a suitable visa. Bureaucratically it’s a little tricky navigating the whole start-up process in Bali but tons of foreigners have done it before so it’s not impossible at all.

The Digital Nomad Scene in Bali

Bali is arguably THE hottest hub for digital nomads in the world right now (according to recent digital nomad trends ).

And who could blame the nomads? The weather is tropical all year-round, the community is maybe the biggest and most stable in the world, and there are heaps of great places to work from. Being a digital nomad in Bali is a blast – if you’re a nomad, your road is bound to lead here eventually.

The internet coverage in Bali is also great. I still recommend getting a SIM card, too; Indosat and Telkomsel are two of the most common ones. You can find SIM cards and packages in many convenience stores or franchises around Bali.

If you’re looking for a place to try out the remote work lifestyle, Canggu and Ubud are some of your best bets. There are several co-working spaces in both towns and more cafes than you can count, giving you tons of options for places to be productive.

And if you’re looking for the perfect place to live, work, play and stay in beautiful Bali… Boy, do I have the spot for you. Introducing Tribal Bali – Bali’s first custom-designed, purpose-built co-working hostel. This is the place where backpacker babes, aspiring entrepreneurs, adventurous explorers and vagabond hustlers alike come together to work, eat, play and fall in love… well, at least with the absolutely fantastic coffee and beautiful views!

Mingle, share inspiration and find your tribe whilst working in the TREMENDOUSLY FUCKING HUGE co-working space and shooting a game of pool on Tribal’s electric pink billiards table. There’s a gigantic pool as well so it’s always time for a refreshing dip to break up the day’s hustle, brainstorming, work, and games…

With epic food, legendary coffee, awesome cocktails (Tribal Tonics are the best signature cocktails you’ve ever had in a hostel – I guarantee you that!) and a dedicated co-working space , this is the place where digital nomads want to be when visiting Bali. If you love the site and want to support Will, swing on by next time you’re in Bali 😉

Volunteer in Bali

Volunteering overseas is a great way to experience a culture whilst doing some good in the world. There are lots of different volunteer projects in Bali that you can join ranging from teaching, animal care and agriculture to pretty much anything!

Volunteers are always appreciated in Bali. Cultural exchanges and language teaching are the main areas where volunteers can make a difference to local communities. Other opportunities include helping on eco-farms, as well as assisting in guesthouses and hospitality. Most nationalities won’t need a visa to volunteer in Bali for less than 30 days, but you’ll need a KITAS permit and a temporary stay visa to volunteer long-term.

If you just wanna do something good on your holiday without much of a commitment, join a beach clean up for an afternoon. There are also lots of charity events like brunches, runs and comedy nights that help you put a little bit of money in the neediest pockets.

My favourite platform for finding volunteer opportunities is Worldpackers. They’re not only a great company that cares about their people, they’re also actively creating a community of volunteers just like you!

Volunteer programs that are run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers and platforms like Workaway are usually very well-managed and reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering do stay vigilant, especially when working with animals or children.

Balinese Culture

Balinese culture is a very distinct demographic within Indonesia that places great emphasis on religion, community, and tradition.

Due in part to their sense of the collective whole and to the doctrines of their religion, Balinese people are extremely friendly and modest people. Those backpacking through Bali will find locals to be gentle and very helpful. I made some good Balinese friends during my time there.

There is a very strong sense of community in Bali. In the early days of the island, Balinese communities ended up forming subaks – kind of like co-ops – in order to coordinate and regulate rice paddy yields, which in turn raised the quality of life for the local population. These days, this sense of cooperation manifests itself in other more contemporary ways.

Canang sari, a traditional hindu offering in bali, indonesia

Balinese people are very serious about their culture and go through great pains to make sure it’s preserved. Festivals in Bali are regularly organized to excite locals and tourists alike. The arts are highly valued in Balinese society as well, mostly because of their historical significance but also because creativity is actually seen as pious in the eyes of the gods.

No other aspect of this unique culture is more valued than religion. The gods are still all-powerful in Bali and the people pray to them very frequently. You’ll see little offerings absolutely everywhere: left at intersections, on doorsteps, and in altars that almost every house in Bali has in their yard.

Don’t feel bad if you accidentally trample over an offering on the road. The Balinese believe that when an offering is left out, whatever happens to it is what the gods meant to happen. So, as wild as it sounds, driving your scooter over an offering is not actually disrespectful.

Balinese Travel Phrases

Bahasa Indonesia is the official language of Indonesia and is universally understood throughout the country, including Bali. Note that “bahasa” is just the Indonesian word for “language”. However, most people use the word “bahasa” alone to just refer to Indonesian .

But did you know that Bali also has its own traditional language called Balinese? This fascinating language is very distinct from Bahasa Indonesia and the two are actually unintelligible to each other. Traditional Balinese isn’t used as much these days as the standardized Bahasa Indonesia is the dominant language. In fact, the script is becoming so uncommon in day-to-day life that most people can only speak Balinese, not read it.

English is widely understood in the tourist centres in Bali thanks in part to the hyper-developed tourism infrastructure and the inflated presence of Westerners. However, not nearly everyone speaks it even in the cities.

I’ve listed some travel phrases in Balinese below. If you really want to impress some people in the villages, throw in a phrase or two. You should know though that especially in the cities – Denpasar, Uluwatu, Canggu – there are HEAPS of Indonesians that are NOT Balinese. So, these here phrases are more for funzies; it’s usually better to use Bahasa Indonesia.

Inggih – Yes
Ten – No
Rahajeng Semeng – Good Morning
Rahajeng Wengi – Good Evening
Suksma – Thank you
Punapi gatra? – How are you?
Tiang becik-becik – I am fine
Tidak ada kantong plastik – No plastic bag
Tidak ada jerami silahkan – No straw please
Tolong, jangan gunakan sendok garpu plastik – No plastic cutlery please
Tiang uling… – I am from…
Aji kuda niki? – How much?
Angayu bagia kacunduk sareng ragane – Pleasure to meet you

What to Eat in Bali

With a liberal use of spices and ingredients, Balinese food is hugely varied and somewhat unique. The cuisine is similar to that found in the rest of Indonesia and, in some ways, Hindi cooking albeit with a few caveats.

In Bali, you’ll see pork on the menu quite often, which is unheard of in the rest of Indonesia. Likewise, you’ll see that Balinese cuisine is very meat-centric, which is somewhat converse to many Hindi culinary traditions.

Like its culture, Balinese cooking is a synthesis of many styles that forms its own culinary gestalt.

(Don’t worry, vegans – there are heaps of places that cater to you too. These are not just Western restaurants but Balinese local food also has stuff to offer.)

a traditional plate of indonesian food called nasi goreng, with fried rice, a fried egg, chicken, and peanut sauce

Most restaurants in Bali will have a diverse selection of dishes to choose from. When backpacking in Bali, we wholeheartedly suggest staying away from the touristy restaurants and eating at the local spots, which are referred to as warungs . The food will be more authentic and less expensive. (Restaurant prices in Bali can really drive up your budget.)

Rice ( nasi ) is the most ubiquitous ingredient in Balinese cooking and most dishes will include it.

Food carts base most of their dishes around rice and will serve them in paper cones. You’ll easily recognize the food carts trolling around the beaches and streets by their appearance. Referred to as kaki lima , or “five legs,” the food carts will have 3 legs/wheels in addition to the owner’s own 2 legs.

Must-Try Dishes in Bali

These dishes are both delicious and friendly to people backpacking Bali on a budget.

Babi Guling – slow-roasted pig
Satay – grilled meat skewers
Betutu – stuffed duck or chicken
Nasi Goreng – fried rice
Lawar – minced meat and veggies w/ coconut
Urab – mixed vegetables
Tum – mixed ingredients prepared in banana leaves
Mie Goreng – fried noodles
Ayam bubur – Chicken porridge

A Brief History of Bali

The first mentions of the island of “Bali” date back to around the end of the first millennium AD when the name Bali Dwipa appeared in various inscriptions including the Blanjong pillar.

Two monkeys are perched atop a traditional Balinese statue in the Monkey Forest, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia.

Archaeological evidence places its origins at much early dates; all the way back to the Neolithic era when the various Austronesian peoples of the Pacific began to migrate in great numbers. Many nomads from now modern Taiwan, the Philippines, and South China settled in Bali at this time.

Following the Bronze Age, Bali developed into a respectable kingdom near the turn of the first millennia. It was during this time that it was introduced to the Buddhist and Hindu religions. The latter in particular was the aftereffect of Bali’s relationship with the much larger Majapahit Empire, which, at the time, controlled Java and would establish a Hindu colony on Bali.

It was also during this time that many of the prevailing Balinese traditions that we know of today were established. Subaks were formed and Hinduism became the dominant religion.

When the Majapahit Empire collapsed at the end of the 15th century, much of the Javanese Hindu community fled to Bali, thus solidifying the religion.

During the mid-19th century, following the race to colonize the East Indies, the Dutch set their eyes on Bali. Using false pretences, the Dutch harassed the Balinese and eventually laid siege to the island at the turn of century.

Facing their inevitable doom at the hands of the powerful Europeans, the Balinese royalty committed mass suicide in an act known as the puputan . To this day, the puputan is one of Bali’s proudest moments.

In the following years, Bali’s history echoed much of that of Indonesia. It came under occupation by the Japanese during WWII, thus ending Dutch colonialism, and following the war fought for its independence again.

Some Unique Experiences in Bali

Bali has no shortage of cool things to do and keep you entertained for days. Many backpackers come to Bali specifically to experience these things! Here are a few of them, and the best places to try them out.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Practicing Yoga in Bali

a guy sitting on his yoga mat about to start a yoga class

It’s no secret that Bali is one of the most famous and romanticized places on the planet to study yoga.

Whilst there are yoga studios everywhere in Bali, there are places where they’re more concentrated than average. Ubud is often considered ground-zero for everything yoga in Bali and there are sessions being held in every corner of the city, from high-end resorts to parks and cafes. This is the place to explore stranger forms of yoga from acro yoga to laughter yoga.

If this sounds like a bit much, it is – Ubud is the spiritual centre for hippies and energy healers in Bali, which is fantastic for others in the same tribe. For the more spiritually challenged of us, Ubudian antics can be kinda WTF. Still, it’s a fun time.

All of the other backpacker-favoured spots in Bali also have plenty of yoga studios where you can attend classes. In the Canggu area, the more popular yoga studios include Samadi and Serenity. My favourite is Udara in Munggu – a 15-minute drive from Canggu, it’s located right by the sea and on top of “normal” yoga, also does aerial yoga classes (as well as sound healing and ecstatic dancing).

In Uluwatu, I recommend checking out the daily morning yoga classes at Mana!

If you’d like to get a yoga teacher’s license in Bali, inquire with Santosha Institute – they organize regular teacher courses on Nusa Lembongan.

Surfing in Bali

Bali is a mecca for surfers. The seas offer some of the longest, largest, and most consistent waves in the world. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, surfing is one of the most fun things to do in Bali.

There are plenty of surf shacks offering informal lessons but from experience, these teachers are more concerned with getting you to stand on the board than actually teaching you.

If you want to learn how to surf, I recommend finding a teacher that comes recommended.

2 girls holding surfboards headed to the beach

Best Surf Spots in Bali :

Kuta – The original “surfer’s paradise” on Bali. Relatively gentle waves. Busy as fuck.
Canggu – Offers waves for all skill levels. Barrels can be intense.
Padang Padang – Located between Bingin and Uluwatu. Famous for its long, consistent barrels. More for experienced surfers but there are some gentle breaks.
Uluwatu – Not only some of the greatest waves in Bali but some of the best scenery as well!
Dreamland – Long stretches of sand that are great for surfers and bathers.
Medewi – Some of the longest waves in Bali and a great spot for beginners.

Diving and Snorkelling in Bali

Bali, in addition to much of Indonesia, is a part of the greater Coral Triangle of the East Indies, which is one of the most ecologically diverse places on the entire planet. For this reason, scuba diving in Bali is world-class and will stun even the most seasoned of divemasters.

For divers, the waters around Bali are popular for their warmth and plethora of marine biology. Common sightings while diving in Bali include parrotfish, several varieties of shark, turtle, stingrays, moray eels, and the elusive mola-mola.

Many of the island’s most popular dive sites are on the eastern part of the island around Amed. Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, and Menjangan Island also offer great diving opportunities.

The sea currents around Bali can be very strong. If you’re thinking about going diving in Bali, be sure to check ocean conditions.

Snorkelling is also an option around Bali; the waters are plenty clear for you to spot some awesome marine life even closer to the surface. Or, combine the two – Bali is an epic place to learn how to freedive .

Best Dive Spots in Bali :

Amed – Ground Zero for Bali’s diving culture. Offers a wide range of marine biology, conditions, and topography. Appropriate for all skill levels.
Tulamben – Famous for the many shipwrecks that have now become marine menageries. Lots of coral. Good for snorkellers as well.
Nusa Penida – A layover for several species of migrating marine life. Schools of manta rays and mola-mola are seen here. Careful: there are strong currents here.
Menjangan Island – Renown for crystal clear water and ease of access. Lots of beautiful reefs and marine life.
Padang Bai – Calm dive site with good visibility and marine diversity. Great snorkeling at the Blue Lagoon.

FAQs About Backpacking Bali

You’ve got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some commonly asked questions about backpacking in Bali on a budget.

Is Bali good for backpacking?

Hell yes! Come on by and mix with all the other dirtbags, penniless backpackers, party animals, yogis, world saviours and jungle trekkers. There’s surely a friend for you too ?

How much money do you need for 3 weeks in Bali?

Your budget varies a lot depending where you swing on the broke-bougie scale. For a three-week holiday, I recommend a budget of $700-1,000 USD.

Can I live in Bali permanently?

Actually, yep, but it’s a bit tricky. You’re not alone, though. It’s a classic Bali syndrome. You come here for three weeks and end up staying for two years. To stay long-term, check out other possible visas: for example, investor visa, residency visa and retirement visa.

Are the influencers in Bali THAT bad?

The influencers and Instagrammers of Bali do get a bad rep, mostly because there’s a LOT of them, and some of them can be a little ridiculous… But no, in general, no. You’ll deffo see a lot of people posing for photos but let them hustle. If it gets too tough, just try some offbeat travel in Bali!

Final Advice Before Visiting Bali

Bali is an awesome fucking place to be. It is also a place where all kinds of hustlers, partybodies, influencers and backpackers congregate and cause chaos. Bules (westerners) already have a bit of reputation so remember to be respectful while backpacking in Bali so that you won’t make us look even worse.

Wear modest clothing when visiting religious sites. Most temples will rent out sarongs to visitors at the entrance, and even men are expected to wear them. Actually, pay attention to your clothing anyway: especially in Canggu, even skimpy clothing is totally acceptable (although a bikini on a motorbike is slightly cringe) but in villages, it’s respectful to cover up more.

If you plan on partying in Bali, please remember to be somewhat in control and respectful of the locals and other travellers, for that matter. Do not drink and drive; grab a Gojek home instead. There are also many working girls in Bali. Don’t be a wanker, respect all humans.

Stay calm and respectful in all situations. I know things here get a little hectic, and not everything works like clockwork, but that’s just Asia. The Balinese don’t respect anger, ever.

And lastly, which might be the most important piece of advice you’ll get about your upcoming Bali trip: WEAR YOUR FUCKING HELMET. The traffic here doesn’t care about the wind flowing through your goldilocks. Protect your precious noggin.

No matter where your backpacking route through Bali goes, it’ll be an epic journey. With this travel guide for Bali in hand, you’ll have everything that you could possibly need to craft the perfect trip. Study it well and have a great time, amigos!

Travel Insurance for Bali
Backpacking Indonesia
Backpacking Thailand
21 MUST-SEE Beautiful Places in Indonesia

a girl at the beach as the sun sets on the ocean

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Will Hatton

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This is one of the best and most helpful blogs I have read. Normally I have to read several to answer all of my questions and to gain all of the information but you covered literally, everything! We have visited Bali once before and now we are planning our trip back. This was so helpful, so thankyou.

You’re welcome! We’re releasing a bunch of new Bali-related content soon so stay tuned!

One Month Bali Itinerary

An excellent Bali itinerary for families.

- This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure.

We have just completed an incredible one month stay in Bali with our family of six and would love to share the highs and the lows with you. From soaring cliffs and white-sand beaches to jungles, rivers and volcanos, our Bali itinerary covered so much that this stunning island has to offer but once you get a taste of Bali, you realise there is more to discover than you think!

We’re from Australia and have travelled to Bali before, as this beautiful place is only a short flight away. With a beautiful culture and people, a hot tropical climate and a wide selection of fantastic surf breaks, there are so many wonderful things to do in Bali it is no wonder we keep returning again and again.

Like most travellers, we usually get to spend a couple of short weeks in a private villa in somewhere like Canggu or high on a Uluwatu hill, chilling poolside and hardly even venturing outside.

This time was different.

We sold most of our belongings and packed everything we own into a couple of small suitcases.

Going on an adventure with our four children, we threw caution to the wind, did a crash course in homeschooling and bought one-way tickets to Southeast Asia.

Our Bali itinerary hasn’t been all about relaxing and cocktails!

Our itinerary has had to entertain and gain approval from the harshest critics, our kids, and they have been kept interested along the way!

You can follow our adventures on our blog Gadsventure and scroll down to the bottom of the post to find out more about us.

Looking for more itineraries? Try these:

10-day Japan Itinerary
Osaka Itinerary
The Perfect Nagoya Itinerary
Hong Kong Itinerary
Macau Itinerary
Sri Lanka Itinerary
Philippines Itinerary
Taiwan Itinerary
5-day Beijing Itinerary
10-day Thailand Itinerary
Bali Itinerary
San Francisco Itinerary
Oahu Itinerary
Galapagos Islands Itinerary
Sweden Itinerary
Balkan Itinerary
Tasmania Itinerary
7-day Greece Itinerary
10-day Portugal Itinerary

How many days?

Bali airport, airport transfers, travel time from bali airport, food in bali, booking an airbnb in bali, where to stay in padang padang, hiring a motorbike in bali, padang padang beach, uluwatu cliff and temple, bingin beach and balangan beach , waterbom waterpark, what to eat in bali around padang padang, where to stay in canggu , finn’s rec club, atlas beach club, tamora gallery, childcare in canggu, beaches in canggu, best restaurants in canggu, private taxis, bali itinerary week 2 – sanur, bali itinerary week 3 – keramas, amed accommodation, where to eat in amed, jemeluk bay, japanese wreck, diving in amed, relaxing in amed, sidemen accommodation, cooking class, where to eat in sidemen, getting around sidemen, where to stay in ubud, getting around ubud, rice terraces, campuan ridge walk, luwak coffee, d’tukad river club, bali river rafting, monkey forest, barong dance, where to eat in ubud, planning your bali itinerary.

We stayed for a whole month in Bali but you could use easily cherry-pick our 4 weeks in Bali itinerary to tailor your vacation to suit the amount of time you have.

If you want to squeeze most of these Indonesian landmarks into your itinerary, you’ll need a couple of months at least.

We had initially planned to stay the entire month in the one villa but decided to move around and explore new places and I am so glad it turned out this way.

Here is a breakdown of our one month in Bali:

7 nights in Bali – Padang Padang Beach, Uluwatu, Bukit Peninsula
5 nights in Bali – Canggu
1 night in Bali – Sanur (this one didn’t turn out well!)
4 nights in Bali – Amed
3 nights in Bali – Sidemen
7 nights in Bali – Abiansemal (just outside of Ubud)

Bali Airport and Transport

Before we left Australia, we paid a visit to our travel health professional to arrange vaccinations.

We do not need a visa for Indonesia as Australia is part of the visa waiver program and we are allowed to stay for 30 days.

Travelling to Bali involves arriving in Ngurah Rai International Airport, which is always smooth sailing for us and, this time, despite being 2.5 hours delayed, our spirits were super high as we arrived for our one month stay.

Having four young kids, we were waved straight through customs and immigration as if we were celebrities. But you can also pay for a VIP pass that will fast track you through immigration. Check out the details here .

The gauntlet of taxi drivers at the airport is not something I ever want to tackle with tired kids and husband.

Instead, I simply looked for the guy holding the sign with my name on it!

Another celebrity moment.

Top tip: Our number one recommendation for arriving in Bali is to make sure you book an airport transfer. Book your Bali airport transfer here . Your hotel or villa accommodation can arrange this transfer and sometimes it is included but transfers are often extra.

Expect to pay somewhere between 200,000IDR to 300,000IDR (about A$20 to $30) for an airport transfer to the popular areas.

The cars are usually large Toyota vans and with four kids and a mum squeezed in the back seat, Dad comfortably in the front seat and a surfboard sitting on our heads, we easily fit!

There are no baby car seats in Bali and often no seatbelt at all in the back, however, the going is mostly slow anyway.

Bali airport to Padang Padang Beach – it took us about one hour. We arrived around 3 pm (the traffic is a lot less hectic in the morning).
Bali airport to Canggu – at least an hour.
Bali airport to Ubud – 1.5 hours

Our favourite foods in Bali are:

Nasi Goreng (fried rice, sometimes with chicken, and a fried egg on top)
Mie Goreng (fried noodles)
Ayam Betutu or Bebek Betutu (slow-cooked chicken or duck platter with bean salad, and plain rice)
Cap Cay (chicken and vegetables in a tasty non-spicy gravy with rice)
Babi Guling (spit-roasted pork)
Beef Rending (slow-cooked tender beef curry)
Nasi Campur (rice with a selection of meat dishes)

The kids ate a lot of tropical fruits which make up for their diet of pancakes, plain rice, eggs and french fries. Little Mabel is the most adventurous foodie.

Booking your accommodation in Bali

We found Airbnb to be great for browsing and booking an Airbnb in Bali can sometimes be like a mystery treasure hunt to track down the place.

Before booking, ensure you ask your host anything and everything you need to know. Here are some questions you should ask

Is there a supermarket nearby?
Is the wifi good?
Do you have hot showers?
Is breakfast included?
Will we be able to find it?

Other booking sites that also offer budget accommodation and homestays are Bookings.com and you can compare prices of accommodation on several bookings sites using HotelsCombined .

Our Bali Itinerary

Here’s how we spent our time in Bali. I hope it gives you some great ideas and inspiration to customise your own Bali itinerary.

Bali Itinerary Week 1 – Padang Padang and Bukit Peninsula

Padang Padang is on Bukit Peninsula, the little blob off the bottom of the island of Bali where a narrow bottleneck of land contributes to the traffic problems.

The land ends in dramatic cliffs and there are some incredible white beaches down below.

The surf is great, which was a major drawcard for us, but there are some beautiful swimming beaches as well.

We bravely booked a homestay for our first week and I say “bravely” because it is not something we have ever tried before.

Our budget dictated that to stay for a month, we were limited to $50 (AUD) per night to spend on accommodation in Bali.

We wanted somewhere for our family travel tribe that would allow us to all sleep in the one room.

To get all of this in an area which was close enough to the surf forced us to look on Airbnb and for a homestay .

In Bali, a homestay means you have a couple of rooms within a traditional Balinese family compound with other families living in that compound too.

Our compound had a bedroom pavilion and a separate building for kitchens and bathrooms.

There were temples, chickens, a cockatoo, a dog, cats and children and some elderly grandparents.

The great thing about staying in a compound is that it is good for security because there is always someone home.

There were kids to play with and learn from and our host spoke good English, so we could ask anything.

They arranged everything we needed, from popping out to grab cold beer to renting us a motorbike and even being our tour guide for the day.

Wayan’s Family Guesthouse was a fantastic way to start off our one month in Bali.

How to Get Around Padang Padang

We hired motorbikes for our stay in Padang Padang during our first week in Bali. With four kids, this was quite a challenge.

I know motorbikes are not going to be to everyone’s taste, but when in Bali, we think it’s the best way to explore.

Although the roads in this part of Bali are very quiet, we rode very slow.

Our host arranged our bikes, 60,000IDR each per day including helmets. For a longer rental, you can usually negotiate a better price.

If motorbikes are not your thing, while travelling in Bali you can easily find a private taxi to take you around.

Ask your villa host to arrange this for you or walk down the street to find the guys with the ‘transport’ sign.

A driver for the day can cost from 250,000IDR to 500,000IDR for the day depending on your bargaining skills.

Places to visit in Bali near Padang Padang

We were in this area for seven days (so yes you could stay here if you’re planning a 7-day Bali itinerary) and found there were so many things to do.

We were within walking distance to Padang Padang Beach so this became our favourite place! Check out our video:

This beach costs 30,000IDR per adult to visit and you enter via steep steps through a cave.

Watch out for monkeys!

Down on the beach, go for a swim, have a refreshing beverage or nasi goreng, and explore the small stretch of white sand among the cliffs and rocks.

It is a picturesque place indeed so get there early to avoid the tour groups.

We found that if you visit at 8 am; you have the beach almost all to yourself.

There are lifeguards, and strong currents, so pay attention to the flags and instructions.

One of the popular things to do in Bali is to visit Uluwatu, a famous surf spot just around the corner.

The Uluwatu village winds its way down the cliff face via a few hundred stairs.

There is a small beach inside the cave, and this is where the surfers have to launch.

It is cool to see the waves pound the beach inside a cave!

Uluwatu Temple is a stunning clifftop place of worship which costs 30,000IDR entry per adult.

You need to wear a sarong to enter but this is included in the price.

Watch out for monkeys; they like food and sunglasses.

Uluwatu Temple is especially great for sunset and they do nightly Kecak (fire) dances here too.

Bingin and Balangan Beaches are reachable by hiring a motorbike, or by private car.

They are both otherworldly places full of big surf, steep stairs, rocky access roads and super cool and atmospheric wooden warungs (restaurants) hanging over the beachfront.

When planning your itinerary for Bali, keep in mind these two are definitely worth the trek to see.

Dreamland was more the scene of the package tourist, with large ugly hotels housing hundreds of rooms and a big golf course.

A visit to Jimbaran for a delicious seafood feast on the beach at sunset with our toes in the sand was a spectacular way to end a day.

We spent 800,000IDR ($80AUD) for the cheapest basic seafood platter but that fed our entire family and even included a large Bintang (beer).

It’s a good spot to visit for a classic Bali moment when planning your itinerary for Bali.

Nusa Dua was a nice place for a relaxing day trip in Bali, where it was as calm as a swimming pool and the kids could swim for hours.

The beach over this side of the peninsula is so calm, clear and blue.

Nusa Dua is populated by massive luxury resort chains and is one of the original tourist areas in Bali.

There are plenty of luxury hotels in Nusa Dua, with opportunities to do fun watersports here such as parasailing and banana boats.

We found a super-cool beach bar here called Manarai, which was part of the Sofitel Resort.

They let us swim in their uber-fancy beachside pool if we ordered lunch and the kids behaved.

Waterbom was another fantastic day trip in Bali, no matter where you are staying, and we decided to do from Padang Padang.

If you don’t already know, Waterbom Waterpark is the best waterpark in Asia and a place you must put high on your itinerary for Bali if you’re visiting with kids.

Waterbom Waterpark is amazing.

It’s blow-your-mind awesome, especially for older kids who can go on all the super-fun slides.

Our Mr 9 and Mr 7 were very happy campers and there is an excellent area for the little ones too.

You can hire lockers here for 30,000IDR and private pergolas from 250,000IDR for the day. Waterbom costs around $50USD per adult entry.

Tip: Leave nice and early so the traffic is not too hectic if you’re planning on visiting Nusa Dua or Waterbom Waterpark from Padang Padang.

Eating and drinking in Padang Padang was awesome!

We had some fantastic meals at clifftop beach bars such as Ulu Cliffhouse and Omnia, enjoying endless ocean views from infinity pools and cocktail happy hours.

Despacito was a firm favourite for breakfast and a swim
Bukit Cafe was great
Budda Soul and the local guy with his fire-grilled corn all fed us well.
Brothers Warung had the best nasi goreng ever, even getting the kids’ tick of approval.

Bali Itinerary Week 2 – Canggu

After 7 nights at Wayan’s family guest house, it was time to move on.

I had booked our entire months’ accommodation on Airbnb prior to leaving Australia as I wanted to make sure we had pre-booked secure accommodation as we were travelling with kids.

However, our next booking gave me cause to reconsider this.

The villa I had booked in Canggu didn’t exist!

After an hour looking for our new villa through weird dog-infested streets, putting a dampener on our road trip around Bali, we had to give up and ask for our money back (Airbnb refunded us quickly plus an extra 10% once I lodged a complaint. Awesome customer service!).

But we now had to find somewhere new to stay and quick!

With a group of six, it’s a bit harder to find appropriate lodgings these days than it was when we first backpacked together as a couple 15 years ago.

The first place that came up on my search was a nearby hostel, so we got our driver to head there pronto.

We ended up at the idyllic La Boheme, in bunk beds, in a 6-bed dorm in the prettiest little hostel with free pancakes and a pool. Winning!

The whole dorm room cost us $70 per night.

So this was Canggu and our traditional favourite place to stay in Bali.

In the past, we would have found a luxurious villa to stay for a week-long holiday in Bali.

Canggu, Echo Beach and Pererenan Beaches are famous for the incredible fully-staffed villas with private pools for a few hundred dollars per night.

These are perfect for holidays in Bali with groups of friends and family.

Anything located south of Jalan Raya Canggu and close to Pererenan Beach Street, Jalan Pantai Batu Mejan, Jalan Pantai Batu Bolong or Jalan Pantai Berawa would be considered well-located villas in Canggu.

You can find out more on Canggu with our super-detailed Ultimate Family Travel Guide to Canggu .

Things to do in Canggu

Canggu has it all and there’s so much to do in Canggu.

You can ride horses at Bali Equestrian Centre, go indoor rock climbing and bouldering, get a massage (100,000IDR per hour!) and shop till you drop in Canggu.

Here are the places we suggest visiting in Canggu.

We definitely recommend a day at Finn’s Rec Club while visiting Canggu.

It has low-key waterslides compared to Waterbom but you can watch it all from the safety of the sunbeds and the younger kids loved it!

A Super Fun Pass costs $50 per adult but includes waterslides, Bounce Now trampoline park and 10-pin bowling!

It’s a great day out for the family in Bali.

Finn’s Rec Club is at Jl. Pantai Berawa No.15, Canggu, Tibubeneng, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali.

electric atmosphere at atlas beach fest nightclub

Experience luxury and entertainment at Atlas Beach Club, where internationally renowned superstar DJs Alan Walker and Steve Aoki electrify the atmosphere.

Atlas is not just a beach club with a party vibe but a full leisure destination offering an array of amenities and activities in the heart of Canggu.

Whether you’re relaxing in style on a plush daybed with your favourite drink or indulging in a gastronomic adventure (don’t miss their signature pork ribs!), you’ll find that this is one destination for all.

Adding to the allure are daily Balinese cultural performances that provide an authentic glimpse into the island’s rich heritage, including the traditional Kecak Dance that you won’t find anywhere else in Canggu.

Atlas Beach Club is at Jalan Pantai Berawa No. 88, Desa Tibubeneng, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kab. Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia. See atlasbeachfest.com and follow them on Instagram @atlasbeachclub for the latest updates and event announcements.

Tamora Gallery has a great kid’s playground, live music and games for Kid’s Sundays and kid’s movies most nights.

The Garden and Cheeky Monkeys provide excellent childcare options if you need them with drop-in centres priced between 60,000IDR to 150,000IDR per hour.

The beach is always close and has consistently good surf year round in Canggu.

Batu Bolong, Berawa, Echo Beach and Pererenan Beach are all amazing beaches in Canggu and get progressively quieter as you head further west.

Surf lessons and board rental can be found down on most beaches in Canggu.

There are supermarkets, excellent cafes, pizza shops and gelato in Canggu.

You can eat Indonesian, Japanese, American and Indian (go to Piring Daun for the best Indian ever) and there are still beautiful green rice fields interspersing it all and making you feel perfectly exotic.

Enjoy amazing food choices such as The Joglo and Dandelions too. Restaurants in Canggu are sure to please.

Getting Around Canggu

In Canggu, there are private taxis everywhere and they are easy to arrange.

I’d recommend haggling to get a good price as taxis don’t have meters.

This is different from the Bluebirds that you see elsewhere in Bali who always turn the meter on, so you always get a reasonable price.

Gojeks are everywhere too in Bali.

A gojek is a cheap motorcycle taxi (not an option for when you have 4 kids!) but perfect if you’re travelling as a couple or solo in Bali.

Tip: Download the app and create your account before you leave home for your Bali trip.

They even deliver food!

Grab is another popular option worth checking out before you leave for your trip to Bali.

Five nights in Canggu is never enough though and we reluctantly left for our next Airbnb.

We were hesitant after our previous bad experience and, unfortunately, our booking in Sanur did not meet our expectations either.

We had a beautiful house, with comfy king beds and a private swimming pool. And it got bonus points for actually being real!

However, the house was in a local area with no facilities travellers to Bali would expect and next door to a noisy military school, which blasted out hearty tunes and loud instructions all the livelong day.

We had booked to stay here for five nights but ended up leaving after one.

Luckily it was cheap!

We arranged a private driver and got him to take us north for the first time flying free with no idea where we were going in Bali.

A stop in Keramas for the world-famous Bali surf break and a perfect swim in an infinity pool overlooking a black sand beach was an incredible way to spend some time in Bali.

The pool was part of the Komunas resort, which is directly on this unique Bali beach.

They don’t have family rooms here though (we checked) and interconnecting rooms would blow our budget.

But we were content with great surf and a play on that glittery black sand.

Just behind Komunas Resort is an old Boeing 737 that you can go and sit in for lunch.

It is a very cool and surreal experience.

The kids spent over an hour in the old cockpit playing fighter pilots and we checked out the view from our elevated seats while enjoying a delicious meal.

The views over the rice paddies to the Keramas surf break allowed you to watch the surfers while you dine in your private jet.

It’s a Bali bucket list experience for sure!

You can see the island of Nusa Lembongan from here also.

Bali Itinerary Week 3 – Amed

Amed was on our radar thanks to hearing about from some of the backpackers in our Canggu Hostel who were heading there for diving courses.

Amed is 2.5-hour drive away from Sanur on the northeast corner of Bali.

The drive was beautiful – up and over volcanic mountains and ridges, past fishing villages and banana farms.

We arrived in the middle of a heavy monsoonal downpour, so it was rather challenging to tell where we were! And this made us regret not having booked accommodation in Amed before we arrived.

Amed consists of a series of picturesque bays along a stunning 14km coastline, with the Mount Agung volcano in the background.

Look up at this in the morning to see the peak, before the mountain is covered with cloud.

If you are lucky, the view of Mt Agung from the bar at Sunset Point will be amazing as the sun sets behind its slopes.

It’s a classic Bali moment to enjoy.

It was cloudy most days we were there in March but from May to August should be clearer.

Amed town offers a few basic facilities while further south is Jemeluk Bay, which has a black pebble beach, dive shops, restaurants and excellent accommodation options.

Further south is Lipah Bay with a smattering of white sand and Japanese Wreck beach and then on to some quieter fishing villages.

Anywhere between Jemeluk and Wreck Beach would be the better spots to stay.

Everywhere is easy to reach on a motorbike and this is a great place to ride as the roads are quiet.

If you’re spending 2 or 3 weeks in Bali this is a place I’d recommend visiting.

We ran through the rain and into a few accommodation choices to look for the best deal.

It was low season, so luckily there were many possibilities, and they were all very accommodating for our party of 6!

We found ourselves a simple beachfront bungalow at 3 Brothers Bungalows for only 350,000IDR per night (including breakfast and cold showers).

They gave us a couple of extra mattresses for the kids and we were sweet.

The host was able to do our laundry, arrange us motorbikes for 70,000IDR daily, snorkelling gear for 50,000IDR and give us advice on the best things to do in Amed.

The prices of rental equipment vary so it can pay to shop around or at least haggle to get a better deal.

Our favourite place to eat in Amed was a simple local eatery called Warung Bu Kadek across the road from our bungalow.

A nasi goreng here only set us back 20,000IDR and was so delicious!

The kids loved the wood-fired pizzas at Reef Bar.

Things to do in Amed

Snorkelling or diving is the order of the day in Bali and the two best places to snorkel are Jemeluk Bay and the Japanese Wreck site.

We could snorkel straight off our beach which was just next to Jemeluk Bay and saw amazing fish life only a few meters offshore.

We saw colourful varieties of reef fish, big blue starfish, sea snakes and eels.

If you’re lucky, you might catch sight of the elusive octopus, however, none showed themselves to us.

Jemeluk Bay has a few warungs along a sheltered beach where you can rent snorkelling gear and leave your stuff on a daybed (as long as you buy a drink at the end).

Just offshore is a wonderful example of a hard coral reef and the fish life is amazing!

They sunk a temple out here to create another unique reef, so make sure to paddle out a bit further and check this out.

A buoy marks the temple, just ask the people on the beach to point you in the right direction.

Seeing a sunken ship only 20 metres offshore and being able to snorkel over it has been one of our highlights of this month in Bali.

Our boys aged 7 and 9 loved making up stories about how the wreck came to be there as they swam over the top of it, checking out the resulting impressive reef and plethora of fish.

The currents are strong at certain times so wear a life jacket.

Like most snorkelling spots in Bali, it is better to get there early before they get crowded or windy.

There were plenty of operators offering PADI type dive courses for around $USD450.

Adventure Divers were always busy ferrying people back and forth with professional looking equipment.

Another famous wreck, the USS Liberty is nearby and is one of the best shipwrecks to dive in Bali and even in Asia.

The azure waters of Amed lulled us into a complete state of relaxation in our comfortable shady sunbeds.

We could watch the kids swim, delightfully calling out that they discovered a new species of fish, or playing on the ocean swings.

It was like paradise!

Bali Itinerary Week 4- Sidemen

It was hard tearing ourselves away from blissful Amed but we had already booked to go to Sidemen.

This was a place we knew nothing about and it ended up being one of our favourite places in Bali.

A private taxi from Amed to Sidemen cost 250,000IDR but if you prefer a car and driver, it is best to arrange this with your host because a lot of villas are difficult to find.

The one in Sidemen was up and down rocky driveways through farms and no amount of Google Map geolocation would have helped you!

Natural View Guest House, hosted by Wira and his family, is a huge house with commanding views over terraced rice fields and farms.

It has four rooms and easily accommodated our family in a two-level air-conditioned apartment with sweeping views through a floor-to-ceiling glass panel.

There is an infinity pool and a large common area where they serve meals.

We loved our stay here and not having wifi for a few days was a healing experience Bali style.

It was around $30 a night, a bargain, even though the hot shower was temperamental.

There were plenty of other accommodation options closer to town and we saw some villas scattered amongst the rice fields too.

Things to do in Sidemen

We kicked back and enjoyed the view mainly!

There were heaps of books and toys to keep the kids entertained while our host’s 12-year-old daughter loved playing with the kids too.

The best things to do in Sidemen is a cooking class and farm tour.

A visit to the local market in the village in the morning revealed colourful stalls, local people and the freshest local farm produce.

We selected the ingredients before returning to our villa followed by a walk around the surrounding farms.

Our walk took us up and down hills, through rice paddies, along viaducts, past waterfalls, jungles and crops.

We saw cacao, turmeric, coffee, peanuts, corn, chillies, sweet potatoes, rice, flowers, coconuts, rambutans and snake fruit growing in the fields and forests.

Back at our accommodation in Sidemen, we set about preparing a delicious meal of fried tempeh and tofu with peanut sauce, with a green bean and coconut salad.

We ate all our meals at Nature View House as it was the only place in the area!

They provided a simple and mostly vegetarian meal but we did splash out on the whole grilled chicken dinner one night (and loved it).

There were perfectly fluffy pancakes for breakfast too.

Hiring motorbikes and bicycles or getting a private taxi are all possible in Sidemen.

It is a nice place to explore, just don’t get lost on those windy mountain paths!

Watch out for dogs and chickens on the road.

Bali Itinerary Week 4 – Ubud

We got to Ubud via a taxi which took an hour and cost 250,000IDR.

The air conditioning wasn’t working though so when we couldn’t find our villa initially and kept pulling over to check maps, we were starting to sweat!

We eventually connected with our host on WhatsApp who was waiting on the road for us and flagged us down.

We stayed at Teman House in Abiansemal, 20 minutes outside of Ubud, as the places close to town only offered the option of two interconnecting rooms which made it more expensive. And the villas closer to town were too expensive for us.

At Teman House, for $50 a night we had the entire upper floor of Wayan’s house, with a gorgeous two-bedroom apartment overlooking palm trees and rice fields.

There were plenty of roosters to wake us up for a glorious sunrise and breakfast with coffee was included too.

The shower was always hot but the wifi was unpredictable as they are waiting for fibre optic internet to be installed in the area, however, a portable pre-paid wifi modem is included in the price.

We loved staying at this place in Ubud and when we left for Phuket, it was with heavy hearts as our Ubud accommodation made us feel at home.

If you are visiting Ubud and looking for a villa stay closer town, check out the area around Junjungan.

It’s a gorgeous place with big villas overlooking the brightest green rice paddies and palm-fringed waterways, near Ubud town.

Our host Wayan took us anywhere we needed to go, sometimes if he was busy, we had to book a time for later but overall, he was incredibly accommodating.

Motorbike rental is possible here too but I found the roads so confusing and preferred to have someone drive me around Ubud who knew where they were going!

Taxis are easy to find in Ubud but they are used to tourists, so negotiate hard to get a good price.

Tip: A 20 minute taxi ride in Ubud should cost around 100,000IDR (around A10/USD7)

Things to do in Ubud

Famous for Bali yoga retreats , there are a lot of things to do in Ubud and the surrounding area, which makes a 1 week stay here the perfect amount of time.

Visiting the Tegalaling Rice Terraces is a popular activity that should be on any Bali itinerary, even though it can be a bit of a tourist trap.

The green and perfectly terraced hills look stunning from every angle.

Expect to pay a donation at the top for entry, then photos in swings, nests and with ‘authentic’ looking rice farmers cost extra.

From the Warwick Ibah Villas and Spa in downtown Ubud, take the path just to the left and follow it up to the Campuan Ridge.

This beautiful path continues for over 8km through rice fields and elephant grass full of coursing waterways and scenic views across to Mt Agung.

We didn’t go the whole way; we just went in about 800m to get some cool photos of Bali and then it hammered down with rain, so we headed back!

Signs advertising Luwak Coffee, the most expensive coffee in the world, all over Ubud.

The coffee is cleaned and then lightly roasted after being extracted from the poo of the Luwak or Civet Cat.

We went to a plantation and paid 65,000IDR each for a cup which included a tour, a visit to the Luwaks and some free samples of herbal teas.

They have Instagrammable Bali swings here too for an extra fee.

To be honest, the coffee was a little bitter in my opinion.

A lot of people are against Luwak Coffee due to the possible mistreatment of the animals, which may be force-fed the coffee to support the lucrative tourist trade.

Imagine paying $6 to $10 for a cup of coffee in Bali!

I will leave it up to you whether to visit or not.

We found this dreamy bar/restaurant with two swimming pools clinging to the river bank overlooking a waterfall.

The kid-friendly club had heaps of cool swings, nests and more Instagram-worthy photo spots for the perfect Bali moment.

White water rafting in Bali is the most fun thing ever!

I went with my 9-year-old and together we had the best time rafting 8km down the mighty River Agung rapids.

It was thrilling and the river was incredibly scenic with towering jungle-clad banks and overhanging vines.

We went with Toekad Rafting and it cost about $50 each including lunch. Book your rafting tour here .

I hate monkeys. There, I said it.

They terrify me and they scare the kids, not to mention the fact that they may have diseases.

We made it to the entrance of the monkey forest but when we saw the warning sign “Don’t look the monkey in the eye”, we decided not to enter.

It costs 80,000IDR for adult entry. Enter at your own risk.

This is on Monkey Forest Road and you can walk here from the centre of town.

There are many opportunities to watch a performance of the Balinese Barong dance or one of its variations.

We saw a very entertaining Barong Frog Dance at Balai Banjar Ubud Kelod for 75,000IDR each, on a beautiful stage on Monkey Forest Road.

The ticket sellers were on the street in front of the theatre in the evening and invited us in.

The Ubud Palace also has nightly performances from 7.30pm, which cost 100,000IDR.

Shopping in Ubud is fun! The central Ubud market is a fun place to shop for souvenirs but bargain hard to get a good price.

A taxi will take you on a shopping tour of artisan shops, including to the nearby village of Mas which is famous for handicrafts.

There are some cool clothes and craft shops in town as well such as Mimpi Mannis for well-made designer sandals, Fipper for thongs, Suen Noaj, Green Rock, Bali Tees, as well as your usual Ralph Lauren, Billabong and Rip Curl.

Ralph Lauren opened a factory here in the 1960s, that’s why you see Polo shops everywhere.

If you are craving a steak, the best place to go is Cinta Bar and Grill.
For a swim with your meal, try the eclectic Folk Ubud. The food is great and a swim is 75,000IDR for an adult (kids are free). They have cool cabanas for hire here too.
Green Kubu is a must-see place in the rice fields with delicious, cheap food and a beautiful atmosphere. There are geese, fish and a kids playground too.
We had the best Babu Guling (spit-roasted pork) at Babi Guling Warung, across from Ubud Palace.
Grandfathers has great coffee and so does Lazy Cats in a cool vintage-themed cafe with an elevated street view.
Try Bittersweet for an amazingly decorated cafe exploding with chandeliers and awesome chocolate cake.

That’s a whole month in Bali! And what an amazing month it was!

It has been a perfectly balanced time, with an enjoyable distribution between surf and sand, volcanoes and coral, mountains, jungle and rice terraces.

We have been to both touristy and non-touristy attractions in Bali and having a whole month has allowed us to have a couple of lay days as well, which we appreciated.

We have had more amazing food than we ever thought possible and swam in so many magical pools.

A month in Bali has rejuvenated and replenished our souls in a way that only Bali can do.

If we were to stay longer, we would spend time checking out the other islands of Indonesia such as Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, Lombok and Gili Islands.

We’ll just have to save those places for our next visit to Bali.

See you in Bali!

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One Week in Bali: The Best Travel Itinerary

Welcome to paradise.

If you’re wondering how to spend one week in Bali, then you’ve come to the right place! I’ve visited the “Island of the Gods” on six separate occasions now, and have even lived here for a couple months, and it’s become one of my favorite islands in the world!

With it’s unbelievably delicious food, friendly locals, beautiful temples, stunning waterfalls, gorgeous beaches, epic landscape, and wild nightlife – it’s safe to say that there’s a little something for everyone in Bali.

While I would highly encourage you spend more than just one-week in Bali, I understand that some people have tighter time restraints for their travels. So I put together this fun Bali travel guides for 7 days, and hope you can find it useful! It’s filled with the best destinations, cafes, food, bars, etc – and everything I’d recommend you to check out while visiting this little slice of paradise.

So take a look at my one week in Bali Itinerary, and feel free to contact me with any questions you have!

Update: I just finished writing a behemoth of an article titled “ The ULTIMATE Bali Itinerary | How To Plan the Perfect Bali Vacation “, so give that one a read as well!! It’s one of the most comprehensive Bali guides you’ll read!

Arriving to Bali | Important Info

Okay, so you’ve managed to make it to Bali, get through immigration, and collect your bags…? Great! Now, I must warn you that the worst part about visiting Bali is getting out of the airport!

You will be harassed by dozens of guys asking you for a taxi/ transport, and it can be relaly overwhelming. I’d strongly recommend booking yourself a Bali Airport Private Transfer for $15 and save yourself the stress.

Just like most developing countries, corruption and scamming tourists is quite common in Bali, and I just don’t trust the taxi system. I’ve used this Bali Airport Private Transfer before and I’d highly recommend it. It’s simple and just makes the arrival / hotel check-in process a lot more stress-free.

Bali Sim Card

Looking to stay connected while exploring Bali…? While most cafes, bars, and hotels have pretty reliably fast internet, I always think it’s best to have some data on your phone. As long as you have an unlocked smartphone, you can purchase a sim card at the airport.

These were the prices when I left in January 2019, but I don’t think they change all that often. I’ve ALWAYS used the simPATI and have never had any issues, and I would definitely recommend them.

For only one week in Bali, I think most people will be able to get away with the 17gb for 300,000 IDR, which is roughly $21.00 U.S.D.

Days 1-3: Uluwatu Explorations

There’s no better way to start your week vacation in Bali then down in Uluwatu! It’s definitely my favorite area on the island, and truly has one of the best atmopsheres in the world. It’s the surfing mecca of Bali, but trust me when I say you don’t need to be a surfer to enjoy everything Uluwatu has to offer.

If you’re looking at a map of Bali, Uluwatu is located on the very southern tip of the island, and this entire coastline is filled with gorgeous cliffs, pristine beaches, and picturesque coves.

7 Days in Bali Travel Itinerary - Uluwatu

Uluwatu Highlights include:

Absolutely stunning sunsets every night
Uluwatu Temple & Kecak Fire Dance
Gorgeous resorts with infinity pools
Bougie Beach Clubs & Fancy Restaurants
Saturday & Sunday night epic parties
Rent a moto and explore all the different beaches
Surf some of the best waves in the world at Uluwatu Beach

Read : 10 Awesome Things to do in Uluwatu

Where to stay in Uluwatu

SR Hostel Uluwatu – If you’re a backpacker in Bali, then you’ll love that SR Hostel Uluwatu has a FREE buffet dinner every night!! It’s got everything a backpacker wants: a cheap, clean, comfortable place to sleep, a place where you can meet other backpackers.

“We have the perfect amount of relaxing nights for socializing at the hostel and a shuttle to take you to the best party spots on the island, including Single Fin, and Ulu Cliff House.”

Six Senses Uluwatu – When it comes to luxury hotels down in Uluwatu, look no further than the NEWLY built Six Senses . While it may be one of the more expensive resorts in the area, it’ll definitely provide the best beginning to your week long vacation to Bali!

“Treat yourself to the lavish and unforgettable holiday of your dreams. The rooms at this property offer sea and ocean views for guests to choose from, so you are bound to be peering out at breathtaking scenery.”

It’s time to make your way up to the most heavily visited and popular area of Bali, which is the Seminyak/ Kuta area! While it can be overcrowded and busy at times, Seminyak has tons of amazing shopping (seriously, buy so many souvenirs here), delicious restaurants, rooftop bars, and plenty of clubs to keep you dancing all night long.

There really is no shortage of things to do in the Seminyak area, but it really just depends on how you want to spend your vacation.

Are you keen to learn to surf? Day drink at a beach club? Check out a Waterpark…? Go on a day-trip to nearby temples?

Seminyak Highlights include:

Sunset dinner & drinks at La Plancha Seminyak
Mrs Sippy: The Largest Salt Water Pool & Best Pool Party in Bali
Perfect surfing for beginners on Kuta Beach
Shopping & haggling at the countless vendors for souvenirs
Treat yourself to a luxurious pool-day at Potato Head
Check out the infamous SkyGarden nightclub/buffet dinner
Balinese Cooking Class
Spa day including full-body massage, herbal bath, facial, etc.

La Plancha Sunset - 7 Days Bali itinerary

ALTERNATIVE OPTION: CANGGU

Since writing this itinerary, I’ve actually been back to Bali and rented a villa in the Canggu area (just 15 minutes North of Seminyak), and I think this would be another amazing place to stay for a couple days.

It’s the “digital nomad” base for people in Bali, and filled with health food cafes, coworking spaces, day clubs, fun bars, and it’s the new “it spot”!

I really miss living there, and think everyone would love it! You could always visit for a day from Seminyak to check out the beach for sunset, grab a beer at Old Man’s, and crush a few smoothie bowls at any of the fancy cafes.

Canggu Highlights include:

Watch the sunset every night on the beach
Spend a day lounging at Alternative Beach Pool & Hostel
Motion Cafe for Healthy & Delicious Fitness Food
Wednesday Night Parties at Old Man’s
Find the “Hidden Bar” in the Mini Mart on the “Canggu Shortcut”
Finn’s Beach Club relaxing Day
AMO Spa Day for a facial & massage
Visit the nearby Tanah Lot Temple

WHERE TO STAY IN SEMINYAK / CANGGU

Bali is one of my favorite places in the world to utilize AIRBNB because there are literally hundreds of villas available with private pools to choose from in the Seminyak and Canggu areas!

If you plan ahead, you can really find some amazing deals for beautiful properties! I’ve stayed with friends before to get epic 2-bedroom villas for like $30 per night, and it was fantastic having our own little place to call home, have some beers, and party at.

It’s also a great way to save some money, because if you create a new account through this link , you”ll get $40+ U.S.D off your booking, which could easily be almost a full-nights stay for FREE.

Days 6-7: Ubud

To conclude your week in Bali, it’s time to head up to the yoga and spiritual capital of Bali! Ubud really is one of the most relaxing towns I’ve ever visited and can be such an amazing place for so many different reasons.

Complete with countless cafes/ restaurants, yoga studios, rice terraces, waterfalls, smoothie bowls, etc – it’s the ideal place to end your vacation, and truly a must-visit on the island!

Ubud Rice Terraces - Week Bali itinerary

Ubud Highlights include:

Visit & Explore the Tegalalang Rice Terrace
Mt. Batur Sunrise Hike
Walk through Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest
Balinese/ Ubud Cooking Class
Luxury Infinity Pool Swimming
Visit the Tegenungan Waterfall
Rent a Moto and drive around to all the various temples
Explore the markets and do some souvenir shopping
Campuhan Ridge Walk

Read my article on The Ultimate 3-Day Ubud Itinerary for a bit more information on how to explore this gorgeous town! There’s lots of amazing things to do, it really just depends on what you find the time for!

Where to Stay in Ubud

Wayan’s Family Hostel Ubud – This family run hostel & guesthouse is widely reviewed as one of the best hostels in Ubud. Great value for money, swimming pool, and comfortable rooms!

Royal Villa Jepun – If you’re looking for a bit of luxury, but at the fraction of the cost – this is where I would recommend! Super comfortable private rooms available from $25, and has excellent reviews!

Bali Travels Tips & Suggestions

Let your banks know you are traveling and use the ATM’s to guarantee the best exchange rates. There are tons of places that offer currency exchange, and they are notorious for ripping you off!
Hiring a car with a private driver is extremely affordable in Bali! You can spend a whole day exploring Mt. Kintamani, various temples, waterfalls, and a whole lot more.
During this one-week itinerary, you could easily add a 1 Night Trip to the Gili Islands (substituted from Ubud).
Enjoy the affordable Balinese massages as much as possible.
Buy & drink the fresh coconut water to keep hydrated in the humidity!

Don’t Visit Bali without Travel Insurance!

While I never travel anywhere without booking a travel insurance policy , this is absolutely essential for all visitors to Bali!

So I’ll repeat…

Please, do NOT visit Bali WITHOUT Travel Insurance!

It’s unfortunately all too common that people come to Bali, get into a scooter accident, and end up needing a lot of medical attention! This, as you can imagine, is not cheap, and while the Bintangs and good vibes are, don’t expect medical treatment as a foreigner to also be great value! These bills will really add up, and sometimes they won’t even operate before they know you’re covered! I’ve had at least four friends now get in serious accidents, but only half of them had travel insurance to cover their needs! Trust me – especially if you plan on driving or getting on the back of a moto (which you most likely will), you’ll want peace of mind to make sure you’re covered! You also need to consider other issues that could arise, such as theft, boats sinking or water damage, or catching dengue… trust me when I say these warnings aren’t to scare you, but real-life examples I’ve seen during my time in Bali!

I highly recommend HeyMondo due to their extensive range of cover for all situations and trip lengths, their fair pricing, and their handy app which allows you to not only manage any claims within the app, but also access free assistance online so you don’t need to rack up an expensive phone bill while in Indonesia where the charges are steep!

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

Still planning your trip? You can always just get a no commitment travel insurance quote now, so you have an idea of how much extra to budget for your vacation!

Thanks for reading!!

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Southeast Asia

Ultimate 1-Month Bali Itinerary With Kids

For any parent looking for a kid-friendly vacation spot, look no further Bali is your destination (even though it is quite far away from North America lol).

We have spent 1 whole month in Bali, and it was an outstanding trip! Leaving this paradise island broke my heart a little bit… the memories that we have created over there will always be cherished and I want you to experience such an incredible trip: so here is our 1-month itinerary in Bali with our 10-year old little girl!

This Indonesian island in the heart of Southeast Asia is filled with captivating sights, lush landscapes, and plenty of activities to keep everyone busy and happy. Whether you are a beach-lover who want to explore golden sands or an adventure-seekers who are eager to discover hidden gems, a one-month journey through Bali with kids will be an unforgettable experience for the whole family. So book your tickets and get ready for an amazing adventure!

Day 1 to 4: Seminyak

Our one-month itinerary started in Seminyak. This popular beachside town is the perfect place to start your vacation—it offers something for everyone!

Spend your days here lounging by the pool at one of the luxury resorts or learning how to surf at Kuta Beach. The Potato Head Beach Club is a very fun place to be to watch the sunset and eat a delicious dinner.

You can also explore Seminyak Square and Jalan Legian, two areas packed with eateries, shops and bars.

Seminyak is busy: you’ll see plenty of scooter traffic here. Don’t worry, not all Bali is like this!

Our accommodation in Seminyak was at Kubu Petitenget Suite (51$CAD/night), great location, AC, pool, free breakfast, superb, loved it!

Day 5 to 8: Ubud

From Seminyak it’s time to head inland to Ubud – an idyllic town located in central Bali known for its stunning rice terraces, lush jungles and peaceful vibes.

Take time soaking up all that Ubud has to offer by visiting local attractions such as Abian Desa Rice Terrace (where you can swing above the rice terraces), watch a Balinese dance show in front of the Palace, or visit Saraswati Temple.

We really enjoyed visiting the Kumulilir Coffee Plantation, where we learned and tasted the famous luwak coffee!

Ubud is also a busy place with scooter traffic but don’t worry, this is the last place on this itinerary where it is that busy!

Our accommodation in Ubud was at Sayong House (26$CAD/night), a very spacious room, lovely Balinese decor, AC, pool and free breakfast, loved it too!

Day 9 to 12: Munduk

From Ubud it’s time to explore the country: Munduk. Munduk offers stunning scenery so make sure you take some time here to enjoy nature walks through majestic forests or leisurely hikes up nearby mountains like Mt Batukaru.

Munduk is located in the mountains, so it is a little less hot there (thank you!). There is also more chances of rain. Enjoy! Rain over lush rice fields can be so relaxing!

We had quite some fun taking our pictures in front of Handara Gate 🙂

Also, there are A LOT of waterfalls to see around Munduk. We really enjoyed Bayumala Waterfall, where you can swim in the pristine and refreshing water!

Clinton played golf at the Handara Golf Course, he loved it!

Our accommodation in Munduk was at Amartya Puri Green Cottages (62$CAD/night, for a 2-bedroom villa), gorgeous location, super-friendly staff, AC, pool and free breakfast, amazing, loved it!

Day 13 to 16: Pemuteran

North of Bali is Pemuteran, a lovely place to discover. One very interesting thing to discover here is Karang Lestari Bio Rock: you can snorkel of top of this man-made limestone and see nature taking over in a beautiful way and on top of this low voltage steel structure.

Snorkeling is also a must at Menjangan. You’ll see plenty of fishes here. It is better if you can wear long-swim apparel, because the jellyfish sting there. Emma-Kate and I got stung, and it is not fun lol. One-hour after the sting though, it wasn’t hurting anymore.

Our accommodation in Pemuteran was at Taman Sari Bali Resort & Spa (275$CAD/night) for a very luxurious and spacious 2-bedroom villa , stunning pool, private beach, gorgeous landscape, finger-licking food, AC, free breakfast, and so many activities to do. We LOVED it!

Day 17 to 20: Gili Trawangan

From Pemutera it’s time for another island hopping adventure – this time heading south towards Gili Trawangan & Nusa Lembongan. While both islands have spectacular views over crystal clear waters – they each offer something unique.

On Gili Trawangan (also known as Gili T) kids can have wild fun playing on white sand beaches while adults can relax with yoga classes or wade into deeper waters for some snorkeling adventures around colorful coral reefs!

You can also enjoy day trips to Gili Meno to see awesome huge turtles, and snorkel along the way.

The sunrises and sunsets are breathtaking on Gili T! Emma-Kate rode a horse at sunset on the beach… what an unforgettable experience! There are also a couple of places where, right after dinner, they offer open-air movies! So much fun!

Also, there are no cars nor scooter here: only bikes and horses carriage. It is so much fun to ride bikes around the small island!

The beaches at Gili T are some of the best of Bali: white powdery sand, turquoise crystal clear water.

Our accommodation on Gili T was at Gili Khayangan Villas (172$CAD/night) for a 2-bedroom villa and private pool! It was outstanding! Located in the middle of the small island, both the sunrises and the sunsets are close! A home-sweet-home, away from home. Kitchen, AC, private pool and free breakfast served at the villa, with the best staff, we LOVED it!

Day 21 to 24: Nusa Lembongan

Then move onto Nusa Lembongan where more adventurous activities await – from manta ray tours & paddle board trips through calm lagoons – there is something here for everyone!

Lembongan was one of our favorite part of Bali. It is less touristy, so it was fun to have a slower pace and also more affordable rates.

Snorkelling to see wild manta rays was the highlight of our stay in Lembongan, and actually of all our trip in Bali! There were huge manta rays, and we could get so close to them! (Without touching them of course).

It is also very lovely to drive a scooter around the island of Lembongan and cross the very narrow Yellow Bridge to Ceningan Island which is also very lovely! Locals are growing seaweed in the sea between these 2 islands and it is a very nice thing to see!

Our accommodation on Lembongan was at KiBata Lembongan Boutique Hotel (50$CAD/night) for a 2-bedroom cabana, amazing view of the sea from the infinite pool, beautiful garden all around the property, friendly staff, free breakfast, AC, we had a wonderful time! We loved it!

Day 25 to 28: Uluwatu

Finally end your journey with a visit to Uluwatu – a surfer’s paradise – making it a must visit destination during any family holiday in Bali. The waves are continuously rolling and watching the surfers is a very interesting show. Why not try surfing with your kids?

We also spend some fun and relaxing time at the Banana Lounge, a restaurant and pool adjacent to our villa, at the Jellyfish Villas Bali. The staff is very friendly yet professional, and the food is exquisite. The sunsets from the 2nd floor patio are amazing!

Clinton played golf at the New Kuta Golf Course, and he loved it!

Our accommodation in Uluwatu was at Jellyfish Villas Bali , exquisite place! (330$CAD/night) OMG! We ADORED it! The decor of our 2-bedroom villa was breathtaking , it was also very spacious and luxurious, we also had our own private pool and to add to that the sunrises were so peaceful and magical. All of that made us consider buying a villa and moving there and it is always on our minds

Weather in Bali in February and March

It is supposed to be rainy season in Bali in February and March. Surprisingly, it only rained for 1 day, and only when we were in Munduk. That’s because when the landscape is mountainous, clouds get stuck there and eventually rain lol! So please don’t keep yourself from traveling during those months in Bali: you’ll have more than plenty of sunshine!

The temperature is hot and humid though so, If you don’t do well in hot temperatures, don’t go in February or March. We sweated like crazy lol. Still, we were able to do everything we wanted to, and reorganized our days so we would travel in an AC car or relax in the shade during the early afternoon hot hours.

What to Pack for 1 month in Bali in March

When you’re traveling with kids, it’s important to pack the right things. Here are some essentials:

Beach gear. You’ll need towels, sunscreen and a hat for each person–and maybe even a long beachwear to swim in if you go snorkelling at Menjangan, near Pemutera, because the jellyfish there stings!
Special items for kids. If your kids are old enough to bring toys along on vacation (and many parents let them), make sure they have something special that they can’t leave behind at home. A favorite stuffed animal or doll might work well here; if not, think about bringing along something else that will make your child feel more comfortable while traveling abroad (such as headphones).
We got a little bit sick during our month-long trip. There are drugstore everywhere and the staff speaks english, so you can always buy medicine there. But I suggest bringing probiotics (I never leave on a trip without them), and for water/food poisoning, I suggest Activated Charcoal (that’s what the pharmacist in Bali suggested for Emma-Kate that got sick from brushing her teeth with tap water).

Getting Around Bali

Bali is a very easy island to get around. You can rent a car, scooter or a bike and explore the island at your own pace. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are also plenty of public transportation options available!

Personally, we usually rent our own car, but in Bali it is more usual to hire a driver that will be happy to drive you around, serve as a tour guide (and photographer) at the same time.

Our driver, Imade Sudira, was amazing. If you want to hire him, contact him on Facebook .

Otherwise, you can rent a scooter and discover the island at your own pace independently. We rented a “N-Max”, because that’s the strongest model of scooter in Bali, good for 3 person. It can cost from 12$CAD to 25$CAD per day (negotiable).

Important to Know About Bali

Time difference: Bali is +12h-13h from North America Eastern coast (depending if it is summer time or regular time)
Tap water is NOT safe to drink: watch your kids so they don’t brush their teeth with tap water.
In February and March, there was almost NO mosquitoes. So you don’t have to bring insect-repellent. If exceptionally there is when you go, it is cheap to buy in drugstore.
Restaurants and marts have toilets you can go to, but some only have squat toilets (especially marts, in remote areas) so be mentally prepared lol.
Massages are so cheap in Bali! You can get a 1-hour massage at 10$CAD! And you can negotiate your price too. Enjoy!
Prices are negotiable when you want to buy souvenirs, on massages, renting a scooter, and more. So don’t be scared, they won’t get offended.

Family-Friendly Accommodations in Bali

There are a LOT of accommodation options in Bali (90% of their economy relies on tourism): from hostels, to hotels, to villas, and more.

And you can pay next to nothing, all the way up to very expensive. Most are very clean, provide AC and hot showers. You can see our chosen accommodation in each section above.

Family-Friendly Restaurants in Bali

The food in Bali is delicious, and there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants where you can find a wide variety of local dishes and international cuisine. Here are some of our favorites:

The Warungs (small local restaurants) offer authentic Balinese food at very reasonable prices. You’ll usually be seated on mats or low stools around a communal table with other diners–a great way for kids to practice their social skills!
For western-style food, you can find it everywhere around the island.
In Seminyak, surprisingly, there are a lot of restaurants serving food from all over the world from Greek, Lebanese, Indian, and more.

Shopping in Bali

Your best shopping options in Bali are in Ubud and Seminyak.

Ubud There are so many different markets in Ubud, but one of the best is Pasar Seni. This market has everything from local handicrafts to souvenirs and gifts. You can find anything from traditional Balinese clothing to wood carvings, paintings and jewelry here.
Seminyak If you’re looking for high-end boutiques then Seminyak is the place for you! The area has some amazing shopping options including designer stores like Chanel and Louis Vuitton as well as local shops selling handmade goods like textiles or jewelry made by local artists.

Costs of a 1-month trip in Bali

Bali can be super cheap, it all depends on your accommodation and food choices 😉

Here is how much it costs us per day, for 2 adults and a 10-year old little girl 😉

Accommodation: 51$CAD/night

Meals: average of 64$CAD/day (breakfasts were usually included with our accommodation)

Transport: average of 29$CAD/day

Activities: average of 32$CAD/day

Bali is an island of incredible beauty, and it’s one of the best places in the world to take your family. The people are friendly and welcoming, the food is delicious, and there are so many things to do that it will keep everyone entertained for days on end. We hope that this guide will help you plan your trip!

Coming back from this 1-month trip around Bali left me with disturbing travel-blues. My cure: adding a new push pin to my Minimalist Custom World Map , as well as my favorites pictures! Do the same, and coming back home won’t be as hard 😉

How Much Does It Cost To Travel To Bali For One Month

By: Author Robyn Robledo

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2024

how much does it cost to travel to Bali for 1 month Pin

While I do love traveling to Europe, 1 month in Indonesia and Southeast Asia costs way less than the the former. I was mixed about Bali. Parts of it were absolutely wonderful, like Canggu. And parts were way too rural and impoverished for me. The cost to travel to Bali depends a lot on your standards for creature comforts. Personally, I think it’s important to know where your own standards lie and what you expect from your travels in order to budget accordingly. This post will give you a good idea of how much Bali will cost for a month whether you’re a budget traveler or luxury traveler.

Our Actual Costs to go to Bali for 1 Month

Cost of airfare to get to & return from bali – $670 per person (our cost = $4,690).

We bought two one-way tickets for this trip at two different times. First, we had bought tickets from New Zealand to Bali which were only $230 per person since we were spending a month in New Zealand first. This was a great deal that we found with Skyscanner alerts. The cheapest I could get for the Bali to Los Angelas flight was $440 per person and it ended up being a very difficult flight with long layovers and flight changes. This isn’t too pricey of a flight for a couple or small family but for our large family of 7, the airfare was a significant expenditure.

Cost of Food in Bali – Average $300 per person (Our cost = $600 – $2000)

When we were in Medewi, our large family of 7 was able to eat at the warung (local restaurant) for about $50 per day and we ate like kings. A typical lunch of Nasi Goreng (fried rice with a fried egg on top) costs a little over $1 USD. Add an extra egg for only sixty cents and you’re ready to surf all day. For about $20 USD total, we’d have huge dinners of fried fish and chicken, vegetable soup, rice, and fruit.

In Canggu, our food budget easily went up to around $75 USD per day, but we ate absolutely amazing food and a lot of it.

We spent very little on tourist activities while here since we were here to surf and that’s about it. The rest of the money was spent on food. Once we were in Canggu we spent a little more eating out than in other places we stayed (Medewi, Ubud, etc). Our three favorite spots were The Garden Pizza House (delicious almost-italian-quality pizza and they delivered it to our rental house which was awesome), Front Cafe for coffee, Monsieur Spoon for chocolate croissants after our morning surf session, and Scoops Gelato House.

To summarize:

In Medewi our food costs were probably $5 per person per day
In Canggu (as well as the Bukit Peninsula and Ubud) our food costs where $10-15 per person per day

Cost of Accommodation – $40-50 per night for 2, $70-80 per night for large groups (Our cost= $2,300)

Half the time we were in Medewi and the Airbnb we stayed at cost only $750 for the whole month.

Here is what we spent for the month in Bali. You could easily spend much less than this if you stayed in an Airbnb in a more rural area like Medewi (although not at Bombora, which is the upscale resort that sits on the point of Medewi– highly recommended if you have money to spend and want the best surf in Bali).

Our original Airbnb in rural Medewi was $750 for 28 days (even though we only stayed for about 14 of those days)
Airbnbs on our 11-day road trip around Bali including Canggu, Seminyak, Ubud, and Munduk cost $880
And finally, our Airbnb for one week in Canggu in a really nice house was $700

While our Airbnb in Canguu may seem relatively expensive, it was a luxury house. There were three large, clean rooms, our own private swimming pool, and someone came to clean every day. it was wonderful and I highly recommend this Airbnb.

Get a $40 credit on your first AirBnb by clicking here!

Canggu, Adventurous Warm Weather Winter Destinations

Cost of Transportation – $400

This cost included the $200 to rent an SUV from a local. Renting a car in Bali comes with risks, as there’s no insurance. We trusted a local, paid $200 USD, and got a new SUV. Despite a minor incident (scooter collision costing $15 USD), it was a cheap but not entirely recommended option due to Bali’s chaotic driving conditions.

While at our Airbnb in Canggu, we also rented one scooter for four days which only cost about $25 USD total. Riding a motorbike around Canggu was much easier than driving an SUV on Bali’s main highway and I highly recommend it. If you are only a 1 or 2 people, renting a motorbike for a whole months would only be around $200.

Our only other transportation cost was getting a shuttle to and from the airport which ended up costing about $50 USD each way.

An SUV car rental (from a local) cost us about $15 per day, $200 for 2 weeks. I wouldn’t recommend renting a car in Bali because driving here is crazy but if you do, rent from a legit car rental brand even though it will probably end up costing more like $30 per day
I highly recommend motorbike rentals. They cost $5-10 dollars per day or around $200 for the month
Transportation to and from the airport in usually necessary and cost us $100 total . For smaller groups you can probably find a shuttle closer to $50 roundtrip

Other Expenses – $100

The final expense is very small and it’s really just for any tourist attractions you may be interested in. We didn’t see many attractions just because we weren’t really interested however I still recommend putting a little money aside for things like visiting temples, the monkey forest, or Bali waterfalls .

Total trip cost for 7 people to visit Bali for 1 month – $8,000

Airfare – $4,700
Accommodation – $2,300
Food – $1,500
Transportation – $400
Other expenses – $100

Estimated trip cost for 2 people to visit Bali for 1 month – $3,400

Airfare – $1,400
Accommodation – $1,500
Transportation – $300

Final Tips for Bali

Medewi was super cost effective and the food was decent, but some nights one of the younger kids wouldn’t eat what was served and then they’d go to bed complaining how hungry they were. I’m all about making my kids suck things up, but when I too am tired and hungry, there’s only so much I can take. A big problem was that I got tired of so much fried food and rancid fats. I am just too picky about how my food is prepared and I needed a grocery store so that I could cook my large family meals that everyone would eat.

So we spent extra to go to Canggu for two weeks where we had huge grocery stores and a variety of restaurants to choose from.

Personally, I love road trips and when Medewi wasn’t lining up to my expectations, we found a local with a car, handed him about $200 USD, shook hands, and headed out to explore the Bukit Peninsula and the mountains north of Ubud. While I loved exploring Bali, I will warn you, driving here is not for the faint of heart. It was crazy ! While it is technically a two lane higway, people drive as if it’s a four or six land highway with scooters passing you on both sides and semi’s that you have to have some nerve to pass before oncoming traffic hits you. But if you can get over the craziness of it all, you’ll see that drivers are actually quite good and there are very few accidents.
I can’t recommend enough to stay in Canggu. It’s the perfect Bali experience and while you will spend a little more than somewhere like Medewi, it’s still more affordable than Ubud or the Bukit peninsula plus is way less touristy. Click here to check out our guide to visiting the best place in Bali: Canggu.

Don’t forget to use these resources when you’re planning on going to Bali:

Booking.com – Our favorite tool for finding budget friendly accommodation.
AirBnb – Another good way to find accommodation.
Skyscanner – This is how we manage to get $670 roundtrip airfare from North America. Just set up price alerts on the app and you’ll be notified when the price drops.
Indonesia International Travel – Be sure to check up on the Indonesian Passport/Visa requirements before you leave on your trip.
15 Cool Things to do in Ubud, Bali
4 Beautiful Bali Waterfalls: Epic 2 Day Waterfall Itinerary
Canggu: The Best Place to Visit in Bali

Hope this helps you plan your budget for Bali! If you have any questions, let us know in the comments below!

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Kashlee Kucheran

Sunday 7th of April 2019

Great breakdown for cost of Bali for one month. Especially for large groups it shows that once you GET there, costs are so much more manageable. Getting there is over half the entire cost!

Join the Digital Nomad Society! ($7/month)

The Perfect One Week in Bali Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

I originally wrote this article way back when I had just started my travel blog – it was one of the first articles I wrote for the Wanderlover blog after fully committing to the digital nomad lifestyle and quitting my corporate finance job in New York. I had quit my job and got on a one-way flight to Sydney and then Bali, aaaaaahhhh!!

Back then I had no idea that travel blogging would have been so influential in building the Wanderlover into the business it is today, where I am consistently hitting multiple 5-figure months, and helping so many amazing people build their dream lives of time, financial, and location freedom.

If you have been thinking about making a change in your own life and are curious about starting your own travel blog, I wrote this extensive guide on How To Start A Travel Blog, which looks at every step of the journey from coming up with your name, to monetizing. It goes through all the steps I went through and I talk about where I went wrong when starting my own travel blog, so that you can make sure you don’t make the mistakes I did when starting out.

But back to Bali! I wrote this article after living in Bali for a year in 2019, and my family came out to visit me for a week. I wanted to show them as much as Bali as I could with relatively limited time. I wanted it to be the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, unique sights and trying new things, so I spent ages trying to squeeze as much as I could into just one week in Bali.

Fast forward to today, many places closed after the pandemic, trends changed and places developed into the Bali you see on Instagram today. So while my original itinerary remains the same, I have updated things to make sure the information is still relevant and links are up to date!

So lets get into The Perfect One Week in Bali Itinerary for First-Time Visitors.

Introduction

Having lived in Bali for more than a year (and having been back many times now), having explored almost every part of the island, and having shown many friends around for vacations, I am finally sharing the perfect one-week itinerary for first-time visitors!

My family just came to visit me for one week in Bali from New York. In the run-up to our trip, I spent ages trying to plan the absolute best there is to see and do in Bali, into just one week. I wanted it to be the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, unique sights and trying new things, so if this is what you’re looking for – keep reading!

Quick Facts About Bali

Official Language is Bahasa Indonesian (selamat pagi = good morning, teri makasih = thank you)
Official Currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) – 1 USD is approximately 14,624.00 Indonesian Rupiah as of May 2022
The capital of Indonesia is JAKARTA, not Bali 🙂
Bali is an Indonesian island located in the westernmost end of the Lesser Sunda Islands, lying between Java to the west and Lombok to the east.
It is one of the country’s 33 provinces with the provincial capital at Denpasar towards the south of the island.
Bali is the home of the country’s largest Hindu population and is one of the largest tourist destinations in the world, with a whopping 6.3 million visitors pre covid 2019.
Bali is known for its natural beauty, with its beaches, rice terraces, and coral reefs being popular attractions.
The island’s economy is primarily driven by tourism, with agriculture, forestry, and fishing also being significant industries.
Bali is renowned for its arts and culture, with traditional dance, music, and art being an important part of the island’s heritage.
The island is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Here is exactly how we spent one week in Bali:

Day 1 – arrive in bali and go straight to ubud.

Ubud is a town on the Indonesian island of Bali, located in the Gianyar regency in the central part of the island. It is well known for its arts and culture, as well as its natural beauty, making it a popular destination for tourists.

One of the main attractions of Ubud is the abundance of art galleries, studios, and workshops, showcasing traditional and contemporary Balinese art. Visitors can also witness traditional Balinese dance performances, such as the Legong and the Barong, or attend classes to learn about Balinese music and art.

In addition to its arts and culture, Ubud is also known for its natural beauty, with lush rice paddies, forests, and temples scattered throughout the town. The nearby Sayan Ridge offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, while the Campuhan Ridge Walk is a popular spot for a leisurely stroll.

Ubud is also home to several notable landmarks, including the iconic Pura Taman Saraswati temple, the Ubud Palace, and the Monkey Forest Sanctuary, home to a large population of monkeys.

Tourists can indulge in a range of activities in Ubud, such as yoga and meditation classes, cooking courses, or traditional Balinese spa treatments. The town is also a hub for wellness and spiritual retreats, attracting visitors from all over the world.

It’s such zen, yoga, meditation, jungle vibes, and what I imagine most tourist think of when they hear Bali. It’s such a unique, magical place, and lands the first spot on this itinerary.

Girl in red swimsuit enjoys the swimming pool at Platran Hotel Ubud, Bali

Staying in the center of Ubud is a lot more convenient if you don’t know how to ride a scooter. After checking in and getting settled in, walk around the area where you’ll find lots of shops and places to eat. If you have jetlag and need a pick-me-up, try Luwak coffee native to Bali! It’s made from digested coffee cherries found in the poop of civets 🙂 After a long journey there is no better way to relax and recover than visit to spa, or even just a float in the pool at Plataran Ubud

Where to eat in Ubud:

Monkey Legend Ubud
Milk & Madu
Luwak Coffee Bali

Where to stay Ubud:

Plataran Ubud
Maya Resort Hotel & Spa

Danielle from the Wanderlover wearing a colorful orange dress while exploring Tegalalang rice paddies in Ubud Bali.

Day 2 – Explore Ubud

One of the best places to have breakfast is at The View Restaurant inside Plataran Ubud. It’s a breakfast buffet with local and international options, but the best part is the insane view overlooking rice terraces and their infinity pool. When you’re done, hire a driver to take you around all the first-timers must-see attractions in Ubud:

✅ Tegallalang rice terraces

The Tegallalang Rice Terraces are a series of terraced rice fields located in the Tegallalang district of Bali, Indonesia. The terraces, which are carved into the hillside, offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and are a popular tourist destination. The rice terraces are irrigated using a traditional Balinese irrigation system known as the subak system, which is a cooperative irrigation system that has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Visitors to the Tegallalang Rice Terraces can observe the traditional rice farming techniques and take in the natural beauty of the area. The terraces are also a popular spot for outdoor activities such as hiking and photography.

✅ Tirta Empul water temple

Tirta Empul is a Hindu water temple located in the town of Tampaksiring in Bali, Indonesia. The temple is known for its holy spring, which is believed to have healing properties, and is a popular site for religious ceremonies and rituals. Visitors to the temple can participate in purification rituals by bathing in the spring’s pools and fountains. The temple complex also includes shrines, courtyards, and gardens. Tirta Empul is considered a significant cultural and spiritual site in Bali and is a popular tourist destination.

✅ Kanto Lampo waterfall

Kanto Lampo Waterfall is a popular tourist destination located in the Gianyar Regency of Bali, Indonesia. The waterfall is known for its picturesque surroundings, which include lush vegetation and a natural pool at the base of the falls. Visitors to Kanto Lampo Waterfall can swim in the pool, take in the views from the observation deck, and enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool waters. The waterfall is easily accessible by car or motorbike and is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.

✅ Ubud Art Market

Ubud Art Market, also known as Pasar Seni Ubud, is known for its selection of traditional Balinese handicrafts, souvenirs, and artworks, including paintings, sculptures, textiles, and handicrafts made from local materials such as wood, stone, and shell. Visitors to the market can browse the stalls and shop for unique souvenirs, observe local artisans at work, and learn about the traditional crafts and techniques of Bali. The market is open daily and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

✅ Monkey Forest

The Monkey Forest of Ubud, also known as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, is home to a large population of long-tailed macaques, which are considered sacred by the local Balinese people. Visitors to the forest can observe the monkeys in their natural habitat, take guided tours, and learn about the conservation efforts to protect the monkeys and their habitat. The forest is also home to several ancient temples, which are considered sacred by the local community and are open for visitors to explore.

Ubud, Bali is known as a popular destination for practicing yoga and wellness. There are many yoga studios and retreats located in the area, offering a variety of classes and programs for all levels of experience. It can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation and inner peace. Additionally, taking a yoga class in Ubud can be a great way to immerse oneself in the local culture and learn about the traditional practices and philosophies of yoga.

Want to learn how to work with hotels and travel the world? Check out The Travel Influencer Handbook

Day 3 – Day trip to Nusa Penida and drop off in Seminyak

On the third day, arrange a day tour to Nusa Penida inclusive of round trip ferry tickets and hotel pick up & drop off. You can find companies by searching “Nusa Penida Tour” on Instagram.

Nusa Penida is a small island located off the southeast coast of Bali, Indonesia (1.5 hours by speedboat). It is known for its rugged, natural beauty and is a popular destination for travelers seeking adventure and secluded beaches. The island is home to several small villages and is largely rural, with most of the population engaged in agriculture or fishing. The island is also home to a number of temples, including Pura Penataran Ped, which is considered one of the most important temples on the island. Nusa Penida is accessible by boat from Bali, and there are several options for transportation and accommodation on the island. It is a popular spot for activities such as snorkeling, diving, and hiking, and is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Kelingking Beach and Atuh Beach.

The tour service will usually pick you up from your hotel and drop you off at the port, where you will take a 1.5 hour speedboat ride to Nusa Penida. Your driver will meet you when you arrive and start your tour of the island! It’s also possible to rent a scooter but the roads are super bumpy so keep that in mind if you’re not completely confident in your abilities.

✅ Kelingking Beach

Kelingking Beach, also known as Dinosaur Head Beach is named for the unique rock formation at the top of a cliff overlooking the beach, which resembles the head of a dinosaur. The beach itself is a small, secluded cove with crystal clear water and white sand. It is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, and the views from the top of the cliff are stunning. To reach the beach, visitors must hike down a steep path through the jungle, which can be challenging but is worth it for the beautiful views. There are no facilities or vendors at the beach, so come prepared with plenty of your own water and food.

✅ Broken Beach

Broken Beach, also known as Pasih Uug, is a natural rock arch. The arch is formed from the collapse of a large limestone cave, creating a bridge over the crystal clear water below. The beach below is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling, and the views from the top of the arch are breathtaking, making for beautiful photo opportunities. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys and rare species of birds.

✅ Angel’s Billabong

Angel’s Billabong is a natural rock pool formed by the ocean’s waves crashing against the cliffs, creating a small lagoon that is perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun. The area is surrounded by beautiful natural rock formations and is a popular spot for taking photos. You should be extremely careful when entering the pool as the rocks can be slippery and the waves can be strong.

After a long day of exploring, take the last boat back to Bali where a van will drop you off at your new accommodation in the busy area of Seminyak.

Where to stay in Seminyak:

Rama Residence Petitenget
Montigo Resorts Seminyak
Alila Seminyak

Day 4 – Surf Lessons in Kuta & Explore Seminyak/Canggu

Seminyak is a popular beach resort area located on the western coast of Bali, Indonesia. It is known for its upscale hotels, luxury villas, and high-end shopping and dining options. Seminyak has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a number of clubs, bars, and restaurants catering to a trendy, international crowd. The complete opposite of Ubud! It’s located between the super touristy area of Kuta and the more hipster Canggu filled with digital nomads, so you can easily get around all three areas! The area is also home to a number of famous beaches, including Petitenget Beach and Double Six Beach. In recent years, Seminyak has become increasingly developed, with the construction of new hotels, restaurants, and shops. Despite its reputation as a more expensive area, there are still options for budget travelers, with a range of guesthouses and hostels available.

✅ Surf OR CrossFit On Day 4, I highly recommend surfing or CrossFit. If you’ve never surfed before, Kuta beach is THE best place to learn. I took my parents and younger brother surfing for their first time and everyone was able to stand up! It costs around 300k for a lesson and board rental, and the instructors are all very experienced. For CrossFit, head over to S2S in Canggu for an intense workout (all levels welcome!) and an awesome community. They host weekly dinners and Saturday morning beach workouts too!

✅ Shop/Explore Canggu If being active is absolutely not your thing, you can walk around Seminyak and go shopping, or check out the nearby Canggu where a lot of digital nomads (including myself) are based. It has a very charming vibe with lots of cute cafes and beach clubs.

✅ Sunset + Party Also be sure to watch sunset from the beach or at a beach club by the water!

Where to eat in Seminyak and Canggu:

Cafe Organic
KYND community for vegan food
Warung Gouthé (You MUST get the cinnamon French toast!!)

Where to party in Seminyak:

Motel Mexicola

Where to party in Canggu:

Black Sands Brewery

Day 5 – Explore Seminyak and Head to Uluwatu

When you’re done shopping and getting massages in Seminyak, it’s time to make your way down to my favorite part of Bali – the bukit! The Bukit Peninsula is located in the south of Bali and is known for its rugged coastline and stunning beaches. The area is home to some of the island’s most popular surf breaks, as well as a number of secluded coves and bays that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The Bukit Peninsula is also home to a number of luxury villas and resorts, making it a popular destination for travelers looking for a more upscale experience. In addition to its natural beauty, the Bukit Peninsula is also home to a number of cultural and historical attractions, including ancient temples and traditional villages. Commonly refered to as just Uluwatu to travelers, the Bukit Peninsula is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of what Bali has to offer.

If you like seafood, ask your driver to stop at the Jimbaran Fish Market where they have fresh catches every single day that can be cooked right in front of you while you watch the sunset from your table on the sand.

Where to stay in Uluwatu:

Klapa Resort
Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu
Alila Uluwatu

Where to eat in Uluwatu:

Casa Asia for pizza
Bukit cafe for healthy food

Where to party in Uluwatu:

Ulu Cliffhouse

Day 6 – Full Day in Uluwatu

Some popular spots include Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Dreamland Beach, which offer a range of breaks for surfers of all skill levels. The Bukit Peninsula is also home to a number of surf schools and rental shops, making it easy for travelers to get their surf on. Whether you’re an experienced surfer looking for a new challenge or a beginner looking to catch your first wave, the Bukit Peninsula is the place to be.

Read this blog post on my amazing experience at Rapturecamps, my first surfcamp that I went to in Bali!

✅ Beaches + Beach Clubs

✅ watch kecak dance at uluwatu temple.

(every night at 6pm – make sure you get there at least 30 minutes before to buy tickets and get seats!)

The Kecak Dance is a traditional Balinese dance performance that takes place at the Uluwatu Temple. It is also known as the “monkey dance” due to the chorus of monkey-like sounds made by the performers. The dance tells the story of the Hindu epic Ramayana and features a large group of men dressed in traditional garments and painted with black and white stripes. The performance is accompanied by the chanting of the Kecak chorus and the traditional gamelan orchestra. The Kecak Dance is a popular tourist attraction in Bali and is often performed for visitors in the evening. It is a unique and authentic way to experience Balinese culture and traditions.

✅ Watch sunset from a cliff overlooking the ocean

On your last full day, take it easy at one of the beaches (Dreamland, Padang Padang, Bingin), go out for a surf, or check out a beach club (Ulu Cliffhouse or Sundays Beach Club).

Day 7 – Leave to Airport

Depending on the time of your flight, you can check out another beach or beach club if you’d like to end your one week in Bali. My family and I chose to visit the GWK Cultural Park that just opened featuring a giant statue in the middle, but I honestly would not recommend going here as there’s nothing really to do and I found it overpriced. Stay with the beaches and sunshine instead!

Important Tips For Your Trip To Bali :

Respect local customs and traditions: Bali is a predominantly Hindu island in a predominantly Muslim country, so it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. This includes covering up at temples, removing your shoes before entering someone’s home, and not touching people’s heads.
Be aware of your surroundings: Bali is known for its natural beauty, but it’s also home to some dangerous wildlife. Be cautious around the water, as there are crocodiles and box jellyfish in certain areas.
Stay safe: Bali is generally a safe destination, but it’s still important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings, and be aware of the potential for scams and pickpocketing.
Stay hydrated: Bali’s tropical climate can be quite humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water, and avoid consuming too much alcohol, as it can exacerbate dehydration.
Use sunscreen: The sun in Bali is strong, so it’s important to use sunscreen to protect your skin. Reapply it regularly, especially if you’re spending a lot of time in the water.
Respect the environment: Bali is home to a number of beautiful natural areas, so it’s important to respect the environment and leave it as you found it. This includes not littering and not disturbing wildlife.
Get vaccinated: Bali is located in a tropical region, so it’s important to be up to date on your vaccinations. This includes vaccines for diseases like hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies.
Use insect repellent: Bali is home to a number of different types of insects, including mosquitoes. Use insect repellent to protect yourself from bites and the diseases they can transmit.
Get travel insurance: It’s always a good idea to get travel insurance before embarking on a trip, and this is especially true for destinations like Bali where the healthcare system may be different from what you’re used to.
WEAR A HELMET ON YOUR SCOOTER : Roads are busy, accidents are common. Don’t be stupid.
Prices are negotiable: Almost everything is negotiable in Bali and it’s often expected. Don’t be afraid to get into a bit of haggling. This goes for when your out shopping in markets, booking a tour, or getting a taxi.
Don’t drink the tap water: The tap water in Bali is not treated to the same standards as in many other countries, and can contain impurities and contaminants that may cause illness. It is safer to drink bottled water or water that has been properly purified.

Getting Around Bali :

Hire a driver: One of the most popular ways to get around Bali is by hiring a driver. This allows you to have someone who knows the island well and can take you to all the best places. You can negotiate a rate with the driver and they will usually be able to take you wherever you want to go.
Rent a scooter: Another popular option for getting around Bali is by renting a scooter. This can be a great way to explore the island at your own pace, but it is important to be careful as the roads can be busy and traffic can be chaotic.
Take a taxi: Taxis are widely available in Bali and can be a convenient way to get around. Be sure to agree on a price before setting off, as there have been instances of tourists being overcharged.
Use public transport: Bali has a public bus system called Trans Sarbagita, which operates in the main tourist areas. There are also bemos (minibuses) and metered taxis that operate in some areas.
Walk: In some areas, such as the popular tourist destinations of Seminyak and Ubud, it is possible to walk to many places. This can be a great way to explore the local area and experience the culture of Bali.
Gojek: Download the gojek app on your phone and get registered. From there you can use GoRide which is like the Uber of scooters in Bali. Just drop in your pickup and drop off locations and a driver will come pick you up within minutes and take you to where you want to go. Easy as that. Rates vary depending on time of day and distance, but it’s typically very cheap/

As we were traveling as a family we hired a driver for most of our days. If you need transportation contacts, or have any other questions about Bali, feel free to DM me on Instagram !

And there you have the perfect one week in Bali itinerary.

It’s packed with things to do and places to see, and really only scratches the surface of this special island. Hopefully, you are able to take this outline and customize it to plan YOUR perfect trip!

What to do next:

Buy travel and medical insurance so you are fully covered in case anything goes wrong.
Read about how I travel for free using credit card points and how you can too.
Book flights!

Disclaimer: This post was written in collaboration with the accommodations recommended. As always, all opinions, words, and thoughts are completely my own.

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How Much Does a Bali Trip Cost? (Prices for 2024/2025)

When considering a Bali trip, you may want to know how much it would cost. Is it expensive?

Here is a breakdown of how much it costs for flights, hotels, transportation, sightseeing, food, and activities.

Is Bali Expensive?

Typical Costs for 1 Day, 1 Week, and 1 Month
Cost of International Flights to Bali
Cost of Eating and Drinking
The Cost of Transportation
Cost of Attractions/Activities
Tips for Saving Money

Bali is not an expensive destination compared to other vacation spots in Southeast Asia .

A private customized tour of the main attractions/activities in the south costs around US$120/person/day (2–4 people)*
A private volcano and hot spring tour or a rainforest discovery tour costs around US$200/person/day (2–4 people)*

* Private guide, car, and driver, attraction tickets, activities, and lunch included

It is a cost-effective island for a tour partly because most of the best beaches, surfing beaches, scenic terraced rice fields, and sightseeing landmarks are in the central and eastern parts of the island within about an hour from the airport and main hotel locations by private vehicle at times of low traffic, so transportation costs and trip lengths are kept low.

Some of the best snorkeling/diving areas are also within this 1-hour driving radius . Some others of the best beaches, diving areas, terraced fields and waterfalls/sightseeing/hiking areas are in the northern and eastern parts of Bali within an hour and half to two hours travel time from the airport.

Moreover, Bali can suit all kinds of budgets, from economical to luxury . However, Bali is an expat enclave and has heavy tourism. So, this drives the prices up, but in the off season (November to March except during the major holidays), you can get better prices.

With Asia Highlights , you enjoy 100% refund of any payments made to China Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure ( detail⇒ ).

Get to know more details about the cheapest time to visit Bali >>>

Typical Costs for 1 Week in Bali

Prices are going up, but Bali remains very good value compared to Western countries.

For a comfortable private tour (2–4 people) : About 160–220 USD per day per person is typical with private guide, 4- or 5-star hotels, nice meals, and private transfers included. For this standard of vacation in the US, the average price is 500+ USD.

The typical cost for a person for a week in Bali is from 1,000 USD.

For more on planning a week's holiday, see How to Plan a Trip to Bali .

Comparison with Thailand

Similar to Bali, Thailand is also affordable for all budget levels. 2–3 plane journeys are generally needed for a classic Thailand tour from north to south (Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Phuket or Koh Samui), which makes traveling in Thailand slightly costlier than in Bali by 20–30 USD per person per day. A 10-Day Private Classic Thailand Tour costs around 2,000 USD per person.

Check the sample itineraries of Bali for 10 days .

The Cost of International Flights to Bali

The only international airport in Bali is Denpasar International Airport (DPS). The cheapest months to visit are October to March (rainy season). Airline prices from the middle of December to early January are high for the Christmas and New Year season. The most expensive months are from April to September, especially the Easter vacation period and summer holiday season (June to August).

Airline Ticket Prices from Major Cities to Bali (round trip):

New York , United States: From 1,500 USD . Flying to Bali from New York requires at least one stopover.
Sydney , Australia: From 800 USD. Flying out of Sydney can be non-stop.
London , England: From 900 USD. Flying out of London requires at least one stop.

For more on seasonal differences in Bali travel, see Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Bali .

Cost of Accommodations in Bali

Here are the approximate costs for a standard 2-person room in Bali for 2024. This is for reference only (prices fluctuate quickly due to various uncertainties related to changes in the epidemic situation):

* Low season : November to March except for around Christmas and New Year

* High season : April to September, Christmas and New Year season

During the busy months/weeks, we recommend you plan and book your accommodations well in advance.

Hotels are included in our itineraries and we can generally secure favorable prices. We recommend suitable hotels based on your budget, preferred location, room specification (e.g. no-smoking), and other requirements. Feel free to contact us .

The Cost of Eating and Drinking in Bali

Budget : A meal in a cheap local-style restaurant can be as low as 25,000 IDR (1.70 USD or 1.70 EUR).
Mid-range : A mid-range restaurant meal for two people with three courses costs about 21 USD or 21 EUR.

For our recommendations for food to try in Bali, tips on staying healthy, and some phrases to use in restaurants, see The 10 Best Bali Foods and Dishes You Absolutely Have to Try .

The Cost of Transportation in Bali

Taxi: The price of a taxi in Bali depends on several factors. The taxi starting price is about 0.47 USD (7,000 IDR). For each additional 1 km you have to pay about 0.50 USD (7,500 IDR).

Traveling around Bali is usually by taxi or private transfer. It generally takes no more than 2 hours of driving from Ubud in central Bali to the most southerly beaches.

Public buses and scoooter/bike hire are obviously a lot less efficient, convenient, and comfortable. While you could save most of your transport costs, it would mean less time at the attractions and hence less value-for-money on your tour time, so we don't recommend them generally.

The Cost of Attractions/Activities in Bali

Beaches : Public beaches are free, but you may need to pay to enter a private beach. See Best Beaches in Bali: How to Choose the Right One for Your Trip .

Rice terraces : The less popular rice terraces are generally free to visit. The most popular ones such as Jatiluwih and Tegallalang have entrance fees of about 4 or 5 dollars for tourists. The ticket sales help locls to cultivate the land and build concrete paths for better access to the rice fields. See The Top Bali Rice Terraces: Which to Visit .

Tips for Saving Money in Bali

Traveling during shoulder/low season (November to March helps to reduce airfare and touring costs substantially.
Use bicycle/scooter hire. Take the public buses. Share taxi rides with others.
The biggest tourist areas around Denpasar, on the southern and southeastern coasts, and around Ubud are the most expensive touring areas. For lower prices, you can go to the north coast, and the least expensive and least touristy area is western Bali.
Eat at small, local, inexpensive restaurants called warungs for authentic and cheap Balinese food.
Shop at fresh food markets for fruits and vegetables instead of supermarkets.

Touring Bali with Asia Highlights

All our tours linked above can be adjusted as much as you like. We aim to create your ideal itinerary based on your interests, group size, budget, and other requirements. Contact us for inquiries.

Get some inspiration from our Bali tours to create memories together in one of the world's best honeymoon and family vacation destinations.

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

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Travel Planning Guide

Travel Budget for Bali Visit Bali on a Budget or Travel in Style

Bali Hotel Prices
Best Luxury Hotels in Bali
Best Hotels for Scuba Diving in Bali
Best Business Hotels in Bali
Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Bali
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Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in Bali
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Having a Destination Wedding in Bali
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How much does it cost to travel to Bali? (Average Daily Cost)
Bali trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

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Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Bali?

You should plan to spend around $73 (Rp1,176,938) per day on your vacation in Bali. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

$21 (Rp330,629) on meals
$9.03 (Rp145,557) on local transportation
$83 (Rp1,339,645) on hotels

A one week trip to Bali for two people costs, on average, $1,022 (Rp16,477,133) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 73 Rp 1,176,938
One Week Per person $ 511 Rp 8,238,566
2 Weeks Per person $ 1,022 Rp 16,477,133
One Month Per person $ 2,191 Rp 35,308,141
One Week For a couple $ 1,022 Rp 16,477,133
2 Weeks For a couple $ 2,045 Rp 32,954,265
One Month For a couple $ 4,381 Rp 70,616,282

Are You an Experienced Traveler?

Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels. Click here: let's do it!

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Bali cost?

A one week trip to Bali usually costs around $511 (Rp8,238,566) for one person and $1,022 (Rp16,477,133) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Bali on average costs around $1,022 (Rp16,477,133) for one person and $2,045 (Rp32,954,265) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Bali will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Bali on average costs around $2,191 (Rp35,308,141) for one person and $4,381 (Rp70,616,282) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Bali has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Bali is a reasonably affordable place to visit. Located in Indonesia, which is a reasonably affordable country, visitors will appreciate the relatively low cost of this destination. It falls in the average range in the country for its prices. If you're traveling on a budget, then this is a good destination with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.

Within Asia, Bali is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Puerto Princesa or Cheju (Jeju).

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Bali Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Bali?

The average Bali trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Bali travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Bali

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Bali is $42 (Rp669,823). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Bali is $83 (Rp1,339,645). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 42 Rp 669,823
Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 83 Rp 1,339,645

Hotel Prices in Bali

Looking for a hotel in Bali? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Bali based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $81. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Transportation Budget in Bali

The cost of a taxi ride in Bali is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $9.03 (Rp145,557) per person, per day, on local transportation in Bali.

Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 9.03 Rp 145,557

Recommended Services

Bali Spiritual: Blessing Ceremony, Pristine Nature and Transfer Viator $ 109
Private transfer: Nusa Dua to Bali Airport (DPS) Viator $ 15

Flights to Bali

Rental cars in bali, what did other people spend on transportation in bali.

Typical prices for Transportation in Bali are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Bali, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

Motorbike Rental Rp 50,000

Food Budget in Bali

While meal prices in Bali can vary, the average cost of food in Bali is $21 (Rp330,629) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Bali should cost around $8.21 (Rp132,252) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Bali is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

Food 2 Meals for one day $ 21 Rp 330,629

What did other people spend on Food in Bali?

Typical prices for Food in Bali are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Bali, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

Coffee Rp 20,000
Lunch for Two Rp 219,450
Bali Cafe for Two Rp 433,000
Lunch for Two Rp 130,000
Lunch for 2 Rp 144,000
Dinner for 2 Rp 158,000

Entertainment Budget in Bali

Entertainment and activities in Bali typically cost an average of $11 (Rp174,471) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 11 Rp 174,471

Recommended Activities

Bali Instagram Private Tour (All-Inclusive) Viator $ 99
Half-Day Electric Fat Bike Tour of Ubud Viator $ 32

What did other people spend on Entertainment in Bali?

Typical prices for Entertainment in Bali are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Bali, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

Spa for Two Rp 870,000
Snorkelling Trip Rp 200,000
Cooking School Rp 450,000

Tips and Handouts Budget in Bali

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Bali is $6.71 (Rp108,099) per day. The usual amount for a tip in Bali is 5% - 15% .

Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 6.71 Rp 108,099

Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps Budget in Bali

Unfortunately, bad things can happen on a trip. Well, you've just got to deal with it! The average price for a scam, robbery, or mishap in Bali is $1.16 (Rp18,750), as reported by travelers.

Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps 1 $ 1.16 Rp 18,750

Alcohol Budget in Bali

The average person spends about $3.20 (Rp51,522) on alcoholic beverages in Bali per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 3.20 Rp 51,522

Water Budget in Bali

On average, people spend $1.43 (Rp23,117) on bottled water in Bali per day. The public water in Bali is not usually considered safe to drink.

Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 1.43 Rp 23,117

Bali on a budget.

Neighborhoods

Food and dining, transportation, more related articles.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

What to Do in Bali: A One-Week Itinerary For First-Timers

Here is my recommended 1-week itinerary for exploring Bali! If you’re traveling to Bali for the first time, this guide will show you how you can experience Nusa Dua, Uluwatu, Nusa Penida, Ubud, and Canggu in just 7 days.

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Rachel Off Duty: Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Bali

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There is something about Bali that will enrapture you. But I’m not talking about ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ (because why seek out recreating scenes from a movie when you can live out your own?). Bali is like a symphony of sensations for any traveler – the sheer volume of rice terraces, temples, cliffs, beaches, and sights all coexisting harmoniously on such a small island will have your head spinning!

I recently traveled to Bali solo, and I was genuinely blown away by this petite, adventure-packed place. From the cultural traditions to the casual beauty everywhere you look to the welcoming people, something about Bali told me that these people truly have it all figured out.

Because Bali is such a popular destination, you might already know there is a LOT you can do here. So much, that you could easily spend a month (or more) uncovering every inch of this island’s mysteries. But if you’re just visiting Bali for 1 week, rest assured, you will be able to see, taste, and experience a good deal of what Bali has to offer!

Here is my recommended 1-week itinerary for exploring Bali! This guide will show you how you can experience Nusa Dua, Uluwatu, Nusa Penida, Ubud, and Canggu in 7 days. Let’s go!

Day One: Exploring South Bali (Nusa Dua, Uluwatu)

Relax and beat jet-lag in one of nusa dua’s resorts.

Truth be told, I started my trip in Nusa Dua because I had Marriott points to use, and Marriott’s Bali Nusa Dua Gardens looked like a relaxing option to beat my jetlag. Many people are quick to recommend other oceanfront parts of the island, like Canggu and Kuta, because Nusa Dua has more of a ‘resort’ feel to it (read: ‘touristy’). However, for a relaxing first day and some guaranteed beach time, Nusa Dua can be a great way to go!

Many resorts and hotels in Nusa Dua have a beachfront location, beach access, or (in my case) a dedicated shuttle that takes guests to and from the beach throughout the day. You’ll often find that the beaches here have reserved cabanas and lounge chairs specifically reserved for hotel guests, which is great if you’re one of them! But if you’re not, bringing a towel to lay on the sand works too.

Beaches to Visit in Nusa Dua:

Nusa Dua Beach

Geger Beach

Pandawa Beach

If you have more time in Nusa Dua, this is a great place to go snorkeling, parasailing, or jet-skiing, too. Or, if you want to get some shopping done, Bali Collection would be the place to do it.

Visit Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu Temple at the southern tip of the island is a beautiful crash-course in South Bali. Uluwatu is famous for epic cliffs and pristine beaches, and the Uluwatu Temple (built at the edge of a cliff itself!) gives you an amazing vantage point to take in the views.

At sunset every night, the Uluwatu Temple hosts a Kecak Dance performance, which is a rhythmic musical performance where a large ensemble of men use their voices as instruments while performers enact a choreographed skit. If you go about an hour and a half before sunset (keep in mind, it takes 40 minutes from Nusa Dua), you should be able to purchase tickets to see the show if you choose to! If it’s your first time in Bali, it’s well worth seeing.

RELATED: 10 Tips You Need to Know Before Visiting Bali

Day Two: Touring Around Nusa Penida

How to get to nusa penida.

Nusa Penida is an island separate from Bali, but well-worth the trek because of its unbelievable beaches. To fit a visit to Nusa Penida in during your 1-week trip, I recommend leaving Nusa Dua as early as possible to catch the first ferry out. Then, stay on the island for 1 night and catch the ferry back the next day.

To get to Nusa Penida, you’ll need to take a 40-minute ferry from Sanur (your hotel should be able to help you arrange transportation to get there). Be sure to wear clothes above your knees, like shorts or a dress, because you will have to get about shin-deep in water to climb aboard the ferry!

Once on Nusa Penida, you can rent a scooter or organize a day tour of the island.

Regions in Nusa Penida:

East Nusa Penida: Atuh Beach , Diamond Beach , Rumah Pohon Treehouse, Thousand Island Viewpoint, Teletubbies Viewpoint

West Nusa Penida: Angel’s Billabong , Broken Beach, Kelingking Beach , Crystal Bay

South Nusa Penida: Car Temple (Pura Paluang), Tembeling Beach , Banah Cliff Viewpoint

You can also find many tours that include snorkeling with manta rays, sailing, cycling, and water sports rentals

I opted for West Island because it includes Kelingking Beach (which I had been dying to see), Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, and Crystal Bay. However, Diamond Beach on the east coast is another must-visit!

RELATED: Where to Stay in Nusa Penida

Day Three: Heading to Ubud

Day clubs in nusa penida .

On your way out of Nusa Penida, you might have some downtime before your ferry departs.

Maruti Beach Club is a convenient place to hang out just a short walk from the dock. It’s free to use the facilities as long as you purchase food or drinks, and it has a pool, cabanas, and plenty of shaded areas to relax with a front-row view of the ocean. The food here is nothing to write home about, but you can’t really go wrong with a smoothie or a piña colada!

How to Get to Ubud

From Sanur to Ubud, the drive will take you anywhere from 1-2 hours depending on traffic. If you’re not driving yourself, I recommend arranging transportation (either with your hotel or with a private driver ) ahead of time, and they’ll wait for you at the dock.

Once you get to Ubud, spend some time walking around and exploring the area because central Ubud is astounding! There are so many cafes, yoga studios, bars, and shops that you couldn’t possibly run out of things to do. Depending on what time you arrive, check out the Ubud Art Market where you can wander around and pick up some beautiful woven bags, scarves, or jewelry. However, after you’ve grabbed a bite to eat, go to sleep early because…

Day Four: Hiking Mount Batur and Strolling Around Central Ubud

Hike mount batur at sunrise.

Rachel Off Duty: Sunrise Hike at Mount Batur Hike, Bali

Are you up for a super early wake-up call? Like… 2 am early? Because if so, a hike up Mount Batur needs to be part of your agenda. Mount Batur is a volcano located just over an hour northeast of Ubud with views that inspire hundreds of travelers to wake up at a time that many people are just getting ready for bed, just to witness it in person. There are several tour operators that offer group and private hikes to the summit (I opted to go with a small group), but no matter which you choose, you’re looking at a 2 am departure time in order to make it to the top of the volcano before sunrise.

The hike itself takes 1.5 – 2 hours depending on your level of physical fitness, and you do this in total darkness! It’s not as scary as it seems, because the trail is well-maintained, you’ll be provided a flashlight, and your guide will be with you every step of the way.

At the top of the volcano, your reward is getting to see the sun peek out from beneath the horizon, rising in the distance beyond Mount Agung and Mount Agang, two neighboring volcanoes in the area. The colors of the sunrise from this vantage point make every dark step worthwhile! You’ll get to spend around an hour at the summit before heading back down, at which point your guide will take you back to whichever hotel you were staying at.

Coffee & Tea Tasting Near Ubud

Rachel Off Duty: Coffee and Tea Plantation in Bali

Some Mount Batur tours, like mine, end with an optional visit to a Balinese coffee and tea plantation. We visited the Lumbung Sari House of Coffee on our way back to Ubud. I was curious about the coffee and tea here, but I was especially curious about luwak coffee (the famous, expensive poop coffee from Indonesia). The tea and coffee here is absolutely delicious, and I had some of the most fascinating conversations from my entire trip with some of the staff (all of whom were incredibly friendly), but something did not sit well with me about the luwaks themselves. At the plantation, you see luwaks in cages, and while the staff assured me that they were only in cages because they sleep during the day (it’s true, the animals are nocturnal), it wasn’t great to see wild animals in captivity for the sake of producing coffee. I regret trying luwak coffee (the taste to me was not unlike the pour-over coffee I can buy just about anywhere in Los Angeles ), but I will say this plantation does produce some incredible teas and non-luwak coffees readily available for sampling. Besides luwak coffee, all other tea and coffee tastings are free and come with the most addicting banana chips. For this, and for some friendly chats with the hospitable staff, the visit was great. Make up your own mind about luwak coffee, but just in terms of taste alone, it’s not worth it.

Ubud Spas and the Famous Balinese Massage

Rachel Off Duty: Ubud Spas and Famous Balinese Massage

You’ve probably seen photos of travelers enjoying flower baths in Bali. That’s because spa culture here is famous! From relaxing baths to ridiculously soothing massages, you’d be sorely missing out if you didn’t carve out at least an hour to pamper yourself while in Ubud (and, this will feel especially amazing after that hike you just did in the morning!).

In my experience, the average quality Balinese massage begins at $7/hour (insane, right?). When I say quality, I mean clean facilities, courteous masseuses, and hygienic practices. You might see some massage spas marketing cheaper prices but, I wouldn’t trust these unless they have reputable reviews.

For a quick, one-hour Balinese oil massage in Ubud, I would head straight to Starchild Spa. No bells and whistles at the location itself (it’s pretty bare), but I would be lying if I said this was anything short of one of the best massages I’ve had in my life, and it rang it at exactly $8.80 for one hour.

For a full spa experience complete with flower bath, massage, reiki healing, and more, my friends who have been to Bali several times before me cannot recommend Karsa Spa enough!

Ubud Spas and Massage Parlors to Visit:

Starchild Spa

Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Walking around the streets of Ubud, you might notice a monkey or two (or ten) scamper by you on the sidewalk. This isn’t by accident. Located right in the heart of central Ubud, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a large conservation center with no gates where monkeys can roam free. Home to more than 700 monkeys, the Monkey Forest is a beautiful habitat covering several acres of property thick with vegetation and temples throughout.

When you visit, it’s important to keep a couple of things in mind: don’t run or do anything to startle the monkeys (there are no fences or walls – the monkeys walk around in the same spaces as you!), don’t bring food, keep your backpacks and purses closed, and take care of your belongings including cameras and sunglasses. Monkeys are notoriously cheeky and especially these since they’re so used to humans. They will snatch your sunglasses off your head if you give them an opportunity to! As long as you keep a close eye on your stuff, a visit to the Monkey Forest is nothing short of spectacular.

RELATED: Where to Stay in Ubud

Day Five: Visiting Ubud’s Waterfalls, Temples, and More

While the central villages in Ubud are worth their own time (and you could easily spend several days here alone), there are so many beautiful places worth visiting just outside of town. For day five, I recommend either renting a scooter if you know how to drive one, or hiring a private guide to take you around for the day. Many hotels in Bali will help you with organizing a day tour if needed!

My guide was recommended to me by a friend. His name is Jun ( check out his TripAdvisor reviews here! ) and he was one of the highlights of my entire trip, hands down. A full-day tour with Jun, for example, cost me about $42 USD (600K IDR).

Here are some places near Ubud you can visit!

Ubud Tegalalang Rice Terraces

The rice terraces in Bali are so much more than a picturesque visit. These terraces use Subak irrigation, which is a process that involves a series of tunnels, canals, terraces, water temples, and priests. The Subak system made the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2012 for perfectly demonstrating the Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana – the three causes of prosperity: harmony with nature, harmony with humans, and harmony with God. Pretty spectacular, isn’t it?

Tegalalang is one of the closest rice terrace locations to Ubud, and because of that, it’s one of the most popular. I recommend making this your first stop on your day of exploration, as early morning visits to the rice terraces will help you beat the crowds. And, you just can’t beat that beautiful morning light!

Ubud Waterfalls

There are many waterfalls near Ubud that are well worth visiting. But, if you have just one day to spare exploring, you’ll have to select just one (since driving to these locations can take some time, and hiking down to each waterfall from the parking lot can also drain time as well).

In the area, Tegenungan Waterfall is one of the most popular falls visitors flock to. It’s a massive waterfall with safe areas to swim, lots of space to hang out, and viewing platforms that allow you to get different vantage points of the falls itself.

For a bit more seclusion, try Tibumana Waterfall , which is smaller in size but just as stunning to witness. The walk down to Tibumana is scenic in its own right, with lush green surrounding and a bridge to cross before you get to the falls itself. The area to swim is a bit smaller, but since fewer people visit this location in general, it was hardly a problem.

Temples Near Ubud

Balinese temples (known locally as a pura ) are not just beautiful – they’re actually constructed under a highly specific set of sacred rules, guidance, and rituals that govern all Balinese architecture (so that the buildings can be in harmony with the environment). After you spend some time in Bali, you’ll learn that there are tons of temples throughout the island. That’s because there are several types of Balinese temples, and each serves a different function based on physical location and on the specific Hindu god(s) each temple is dedicated to.

Ubud is the cultural capital of Bali. Because of this, you’ll find a concentration of temples and sanctuaries of religious significance in the area!

Temples Near Ubud to Visit:

Pura Taman Saraswati

Pura Tirta Empul

Pura Gunung Kawi

Pura Gunung Lebah

Ubud Nightlife

Ubud isn’t exactly the nightlife hub of the island, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a lively scene here after dark. If you’re itching for something fun to do after dinner, here are my recommendations!

Things to Do in Ubud at Night:

Watch a traditional Legong dance at the Ubud Royal Palace

Seek out some live music at Bali Bohemia , the Laughing Buddha Bar , or the dozens of restaurants in central Ubud offering entertainment (just walk around and listen for music at night – so many restaurants have live music each evening you won’t have a hard time finding something good!)

Watch a nighttime movie at Paradiso Ubud

Grab a drink and go dancing at No Mas Bar or CP Lounge (often features a reggae band, but on the night we went there was a salsa/bachata cover band and we went crazy, naturally!)

Kick back and enjoy hookah at XL Shisha Lounge or Ubud Shisha

Day Six: Heading to Canggu

Ubud yoga classes.

Depending on how late you stay out the night before, you might be able to check out Ubud’s incredible yoga scene before you leave! Whether you avidly practice yoga or whether you’re just curious about the popular yoga culture that exists in Bali, there are some wonderful places to take a yoga class in Ubud.

For the most part, Ubud yoga classes are fairly inexpensive (around $9 or less per class). And, because many Ubud yoga studios cater to travelers, you’ll usually find mats and props available for free. No matter what style of yoga you practice, from fast-paced vinyasa to guided meditative flows, odds are you’ll find a class in Ubud.

Ubud Yoga Studios To Visit:

The Yoga Barn

Radiantly Alive

Ubud Yoga House

How to Get to Canggu

Canggu is about 45 minutes – 1 hour from Ubud. You can take a taxi, rent a scooter, or get a private driver (which your hotel can help you arrange. Or, if you took a private tour the day before and you enjoyed your driver, odds are he will have rates for transportation to different parts of the island!). For instance, my guide, Jun, charged me somewhere between 300-400IDR ($21-$28 USD) to get to Canggu, which I found to be very fair. After a while, I promise you paying a little extra for an air-conditioned car ends up being so worth it, especially if you have luggage to take with you.

Catch the Sunset at Pura Tanah Lot

If this is your first time in Canggu, head straight to Pura Tanah Lot in time for sunset. Tanah Lot is a rock formation on the beach, and the temple that sits on top of it is one of seven ocean temples in Bali that protects the island. It is breathtaking already in its own right, but at dusk, this area will provide you one of the most stunning views of the sunset. It’s a very popular attraction so it will get crowded, but it’s hard to blame anyone for wanting to witness Tanah Lot at sunset once you see it for yourself!

Canggu Dining

Canggu is one of the foodie meccas of Bali. Here, you can find every possible cuisine from Italian, to Indonesian to an impressive roster of vegan offerings. With only one night in Canggu, here are some well-loved places to consider for dinner:

Restaurants to Try in Canggu:

The Shady Shack

Lola’s Cantina Mexicana (located just off The Shortcut, Canggu’s popular shortcut route to the beach)

Warung Bu Mi

Green Ginger Noodle House

Fishbone Local

Two Fingers

Canggu Nightlife

There’s an undeniable nightlife scene in Canggu because of this region’s popularity with expats. One of the popular hotspots for travelers is Old Man’s , where you can do everything from grab a bite at sunset to dance the night away.

Day Seven: Relaxing in Canggu Before Heading to the Airport

Beach clubs in canggu .

Just like Canggu’s nightlife scene, the daytime scene is equally geared towards kicking back and having fun. If you have just a couple hours to spare before your flight, relaxing at a beach club is the way to go.

Beach Clubs in Canggu to Visit:

Finns Beach Club

How to Get to the Airport from Canggu

The Bali International Airport is about an hour from Canggu, so budget your time accordingly! Again, your hotel can help you with transportation, or you might be able to arrange transportation with your guide from the days before. Expect to pay around 150K – 300K ($10-$21 USD).

Other Things to Do If You Have More Time

Rachel Off Duty: One Week Itinerary in Bali

Visit One of the Gili Islands: You’ll probably hear a lot about ‘The Gilis’ while you’re in Bali. This trio of tiny, but immensely popular islands is famous for sandy beaches, dive centers, full moon parties, zero cars (they aren’t allowed), and unbelievable sunsets. Gili Trawangan (also known as Gili T), is the largest, most social island with lots of places to dance and grab drinks. Gili Meno is small, relaxed, and romantic. And, Gili Air is sort of a cross between the other two.

Visit Nusa Lembongan: Nusa Lembongan is one of the smaller Nusa islands and is popular for its beaches and diving.

Pamper Yourself in Seminyak: For a ‘treat yourself’ take on Bali, spend some time in Seminyak. This town offers well-loved spas, fine dining, and boutique shopping that will zen you out and give you every reason to extend your stay in Bali (or, you know, never leave).

Experience the Nightlife in Kuta and Legian: For an opposite but also interesting take on Bali, head to Kuta or Legian. Here, you’ll find young, rambunctious (do I sound old saying this….?) crowds, large clubs, cheap drink deals, and lots of dancing.

Spend Extra Time in Nusa Dua, Nusa Penida, Ubud, or Canggu: Of course, if you have extra time in Bali and want to slow things down a bit, I highly recommend just spending extra time in any of the places included in this guide! If I could redo my week in Bali and extend it into two, I would gladly double-up on my days in Nusa Dua, Nusa Penida, Ubud, and Canggu!

Where to Stay in Bali

Rachel Off Duty: Marriott's Bali Nusa Dua Gardens

Marriott’s Bali Nusa Dua Gardens (top left)

Airbnb Options in Nusa Dua

Nusa Penida

Sunrise Penida Hill Hotel (second from left)

Airbnb Options in Nusa Penida

Alamdini Resort (second from right)

Airbnb Options in Ubud

Dip & Doze Hostel (top right)

Airbnb Options in Canggu

New to Airbnb? Use this link to save up to $55 on your first booking!

Explore all hotel options in Bali here .

Where to Eat and Drink in Bali

Bumbu Bali , Nusa Dua

Maruti Beach Club , Nusa Penida

Kismet , Ubud

Copper Kitchen and Bar , Ubud

Ibu Susu Bar & Kitchen , Ubud

Warung Di Koi , Ubud (this is a bit of a touristy warung, but the mie goreng here is pretty good)

Alchemy , Ubud

No Mas Bar , Ubud

CP Lounge , Ubud

Umah Pizza , Ubud

Black Pearl , Ubud

The Shady Shack , Canggu

Lola’s Cantina Mexicana , Canggu

Warung Bu Mi , Canggu

Cinta Cafe , Canggu

GIVE Cafe , Canggu

Green Ginger Noodle House , Canggu

Fishbone Local , Canggu

Nude , Canggu

Tips to Know Before You Go to Bali

Currency : Bali uses Indonesian Rupiah. 1 Indonesian Rupiah is equivalent to $0.000064 USD. It’s important to bring cash with you, but there are also ATMs throughout the more populated regions (like Ubud and Canggu) that you can easily use to withdraw more as needed. And, you should be able to use your card at hotels and many restaurants as well.

Language : In Bali, the main languages spoken are Balinese, Indonesian, and English. You can get by with English easily, as the island is very much geared towards tourism. However, locals will be thrilled if you take the time to learn some phrases in Indonesian or Balinese while you’re here!

Transportation : Bali isn’t as small as you might think. You’ll need to figure out transportation to get you from point A to B pretty much every day of this itinerary! But, fortunately, there are several affordable options for seeking out transportation in Bali:

Rent a scooter for $5-7 USD/day

Use a ride-hailing app to be picked up by car or scooter (Grab and Gojek are the apps used in Bali)

Have your hotel call a taxi

Hire a private guide/driver for $15 – $40 USD depending on the length of time and the places you’re trying to visit. Need a specific recommendation? My guide, Jun, was the best! Check out his TripAdvisor reviews here!

Hop on the local shuttle bus that traverses all over the main tourist areas in Bali. For a full list of routes, see here .

Weather : Bali is close to the equator, so expect tropical heat and humidity year-round. Like the rest of Southeast Asia , Bali has a wet season and a dry season. Bali’s wet season is roughly November to April, and dry season is from May to October (but don’t let that stop you from traveling throughout the year – I traveled during the start of rainy season and the weather held up for the majority of my stay!). Regardless of rainfall, the average temperature in Bali during the day is 80ºF (26.7ºC).

Attire : Pack a good selection of lightweight, loose, breathable clothing so you can be comfortable throughout Bali’s hot days and warm, humid evenings. To visit temples in Bali, you’ll want to also pack clothes that cover your legs, like long pants and long skirts.

One week in Bali will surely make you hungry to return. I know it did for me. The variety of experiences that can be had here are frankly unparalleled, and the people are genuinely some of the most inviting and hospitable you’ll meet. After a week-long crash course in Bali’s temples, beaches, landmarks, waterfalls, and restaurants, you’ll know exactly what you want to come back and seek out here again and again.

Ready to Go to Bali?

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What are you most excited to see, do, eat, or experience in Bali? Tell me in the comments!

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Rachel Off Duty: The Ultimate First-Timer's Itinerary For 1 Week in Bali

Hey there! I’m Rachel, a travel writer and a full-time advertising / marketing expert. In 2019, I traveled more than 25 times while working 9 to 5, and since then I’ve committed myself to living a more adventurous life, even if it means bringing my laptop along for the ride. Are you hungry to travel more, but overwhelmed with how to juggle work and play? You’ve come to the right place!

Recent Adventures:

Top Woman-Owned Travel Companies That Should Be on Your Radar

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Updated on: June 30, 2020

7 Responses

Wow, this is such a thorough post, thank you for taking the time to write it. I’m saving it for my trip (once international travel is safe again). Also such gorgeous pics.

Aw thank you! Can’t wait for you to visit Bali once international travel picks back up. So glad you found this article useful!

Wow Rachel, your photos are incredible!! Also when I climbed Mt Batur I got greeted only with the view of a big white cloud ahhaa. I guess it was pretty typical of the time I had there. I love all the greenery though, ecspecially on Nusa Penida!

Oh no!! Right before the sunrise, it was very cloudy so I can see how that’d be a big possibility. We were lucky that the sky cleared up just in time. And yes, I need to go back to Nusa Penida and spend more time there. 1 night was nowhere near enough!

Amazing guides, love your blog so much

my pleasure!

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Bali Bliss: A Perfect 1-Day Itinerary

March 29, 2024 · 1 min read

Embark on a whirlwind adventure through Bali with our expertly curated 1-day itinerary. Begin your journey with a spiritual visit to the picturesque Tanah Lot Temple, a serene sanctuary set on a rocky islet, offering breathtaking views and a rich cultural experience. Allocate two hours to soak in the tranquility and capture stunning photographs. Next, let the waves guide you to the lively shores of Kuta Beach. Spend another two hours basking in the sun, surfing, or simply strolling along the sandy coastline of this famous beach town. As the afternoon sun wanes, make your way to Kuta Square, a bustling hub of shopping and dining. Spend an hour exploring the characteristic neighborhood, picking up souvenirs, and sampling local delicacies. Conclude your day with a two-hour exploration of Bali's history and heritage at the Bali Museum. Delve into the island's past through its extensive collections and exhibits. This compact yet comprehensive itinerary ensures you experience the essence of Bali's charm and beauty in just one day.

Day 1: Enchanting Bali - Temples, Beaches, and Culture

TANAH LOT TEMPLE

Begin your Balinese adventure with a serene visit to the iconic Tanah Lot Temple, a majestic cultural landmark perched atop a rocky islet surrounded by the crashing waves of the sea. As you explore this small town gem for a couple of hours, immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance and marvel at the temple's historical significance and architectural beauty. Located at Beraban, Kec. Kediri, in the Tabanan Regency, this temple offers a perfect blend of cultural richness and picturesque landscapes, setting the tone for an unforgettable day in Bali.

Attraction Info

Beraban, Kec. Kediri, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82121
Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
Open from 6:00am-7:00pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

After soaking in the spiritual vibes, let the soft sands of Kuta Beach caress your feet. Just a short journey from Tanah Lot, this popular stretch in the small town of Kuta invites you for a two-hour retreat under the sun. Whether you're up for a surf adventure or a leisurely stroll along the coastline, Kuta Beach is the ideal spot to unwind and witness the vibrant hues of a Balinese sunset.

Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour
Open 24 hours

Kuta Square

Continue your exploration with a visit to the bustling Kuta Square, a characteristic neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the local life and shopping scene. Spend an hour wandering through the array of shops and eateries, picking up souvenirs, and experiencing the lively atmosphere that makes Kuta Square a must-visit destination on your day trip.

Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour

Bali Museum

Conclude your day with a cultural deep dive at the Bali Museum. Located in the heart of Denpasar at Jl. Mayor Wisnu No.1, Dangin Puri, this museum is a treasure trove of Balinese history and art. Allocate two hours to meander through its vast collection, which encapsulates the essence of the island's heritage, from prehistoric times to contemporary artistry, ensuring a rich and educational finale to your day in Bali.

Jl. Mayor Wisnu No.1, Dangin Puri, Kec. Denpasar Tim., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80232, Indonesia
Open on Mon-Thu, Sat-Sun,7:30am-3:30pm;Open on Fri,7:30am-1:00pm

Where to Stay Tonight

Grand mirah boutique hotel, inna bali heritage hotel, lili residence, reddoorz @ bali kepundung denpasar, top things to do in bali-2024.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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1 Month Indonesia Itinerary

Q: Can you share with me a 1 month Indonesia Itinerary? I will be traveling for 30 days in Indonesia because that’s the maximum number of days in the visa requirement. This is quite a general question, as I understand Indonesia is enormous. I will be flying into Jakarta as a starting point and do not have an exit point yet, so I can be flexible. – Billy

Answer: I agree it is a general question indeed. What kind of things are you interested in? Cultural? Historical? Beach? Relax? Diving? But anyhow, you can always mix and match our Indonesia Itineraries . For a start, below is a suggested 1 month Indonesia itinerary:

1 Month Indonesia Itinerary – Java (Day 1 to 10)

Day 1 to 3 – jakarta.

Fly into Jakarta * , and plan to spend at least one or two nights exploring this capital city of Indonesia. It is the epitome of a mega city in Asia and well worth the hustle and bustle to get a feel. This city has many hidden treasures and is well-known as a shopping haven. It is also famous for its nightlife.

You can explore the city’s inner areas during your limited time in Jakarta. At the start of your first day, visit Fatahilah Square in Jakarta’s old city, where you can admire Dutch colonial architecture and visit the Jakarta History Museum. Then don’t miss the chance to dine at Cafe Batavia, known for its vintage atmosphere and local cuisine. Afterward, head to Glodok, Jakarta’s Chinatown, to see the oldest temple, Jin De Yuan Temple.

On the second day, focus on Merdeka Square and its surroundings. Begin at the National Gallery, then visit landmarks like the Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta Cathedral, and Pasar Baru market. Also explore the Gedung Kesenian Jakarta, a Dutch colonial concert hall hosting various performances. Return to Merdeka Square to see the National Monument and visit the National Museum to learn about Jakarta and Indonesian history and culture.

If you have a day or half-day at the beginning or end, take the opportunity to shop in Jakarta. Due to the traffic, it is wise to limit to only one or two shopping destinations. Plaza Indonesia and Grand Indonesia in central Jakarta offer designer goods, while Mangga Dua in the north is known for affordable imitation goods. Alternatively, head south to Blok M Mall for various fashion items, including shoes, clothing, and bags.

For details, see 3 Days Itinerary in Jakarta

See top 10 things to do and must see in jakarta, where to stay in jakarta, the hermitage, by marriott, central jakarta – luxury.

A charming refurbished colonial house made into an elegant hotel. The location is also strategic, near a train station and quick access to the city center and beyond. With an outdoor pool, a gym, a luxurious lounge area, and a restaurant in a courtyard, this hotel also gives a romantic atmosphere with some rooms opening up to a back garden. It’s truly a dream. Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com * Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *

Ascott Jakarta – Midrange

Ascott Jakarta is a well-regarded, serviced apartment hotel located in the heart of Jakarta. It offers spacious, fully furnished apartments with separate living and dining areas, kitchens, and modern amenities. The hotel has a fitness center, swimming pool, and dining options. Ascott Jakarta is known for its comfortable accommodations, convenient location, and excellent service, making it a popular choice for business and leisure travelers. Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com * Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *

Wonderloft Hostel, North Jakarta – Budget

For those on a budget and still want to be in the city center. Located in the north, this hostel is at the corner of the famous Jakarta’s Old City, Fatahillah Square. It has a charming mix of old colonial style with hipster-inspired interiors. Best value for money! Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com * Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *

Day 4 to 7- Yogyakarta

Jump on the train and ride Indonesia’s only extensive train network from Jakarta to Yogyakarta . This city is also one of my favorite spots in Java, and if anyone ever asks me where there is one place to see in Java, this would be it. Here, you will access the largest ancient Buddhist temple, Borobudur, and the ancient Hindu temple Prambanan. Besides, the food here is amazing; castles and parks are also available.

Borobudur at Central Java

Stay near the city center for easy access to attractions. Start with a typical Indonesian breakfast on Malioboro Street on your first day in Yogyakarta. After that, head to Pasar Beringharjo for some souvenirs before exploring the Keraton Palace for its unique architecture and history. Next, visit Taman Sari, a former royal garden with underground water holes.

On day 5, visit the Art museum featuring works by painter Affandi. Then, enjoy a delicious lunch of Gudeg, a unique Indonesian dish, at Gudeg Yu Djum. After the sumptuous meal, check out Sonobudoyo Museum and watch a leather puppet show. In the evening, visit Alun-alun Kidul and experience the bling-bling cars and the fun nightlife there. For dinner, try the traditional food at Angkringan Lik Man Alley.

On day 6, take a day trip to Borobudur Temple, one of the largest Buddhist temples worldwide. Have lunch in Borobudur city before visiting Prambanan Temple, an ancient Hindu temple complex. Explore Candi Sewu and catch the Ramayana Ballet show if available.

For details, see Yogyakarta 3 Days Itinerary

See top 10 things to do in yogyakarta, where to stay in yogyakarta, the phoenix hotel yogyakarta – midrange.

The well-known Sofitel runs this hotel in the heart of Yogyakarta, with easy access to the city’s attractions and cultural sites. The hotel’s interior combines grand Asian and European decor, with terraces overlooking a courtyard and pool. It offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and a spa. The hotel’s restaurant and bar provide delightful dining options. Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com * Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *

Griya Wijilan – Budget

Nestled next to the Keraton Palace, this small and Javanese-designed boutique hotel is for those who know a good deal. The location is hard to beat! There is also a lovely terrace and garden for those hanging out to rest between the hustle and bustle. Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com * Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *

Day 8 to 10 – Mount Bromo

After that, move on to Mount Bromo in Eastern Java, one of the top things to do in Java . You may take a whole day to get to Mount Bromo from Yogyakarta.

Mount Bromo and Mount Semeru, Java, Indonesia. Photo by Kai Seidler

On the first day at Probolinggo, you will wake early to hike up Mount Penanjakan to catch the sunrise over Mount Bromo. After that, get down, have some breakfast, and then trek onward to explore the mouth of the crater. On the way back over the sea of sand, stop by to visit a Tenggerese Hindu temple known as The Pote.

From here, head to Banyuwangi to catch a bus to Bali.

Where to stay near Mount Bromo

Cemara indah.

I stayed here myself, and it was a pleasant stay with a direct view of Mount Bromo. Most importantly, it is located right behind the trail to start trekking up for the sunrise. It is recommended for those who want to do their hike for sunrise independently. After that, return for breakfast before trekking onward to the crater rim. Budget to mid-range with prices starting at 50 USD. Check out the latest prices and reviews at Agoda.com *

Jiwa Jawa Bromo

It is one of the popular hotels at Mount Bromo, with a beautiful garden for sitting out and enjoying the scenic mountain views. The place’s surroundings are well-loved by guests, and to top it off, they have really good coffee! Luxury with prices starting at 120 USD. Check out the latest prices and reviews at Agoda.com * Check out the latest prices and reviews at Booking.com *

Where to stay in Bali

Oberoi villa, seminyak – luxury.

For those looking for privacy and to splurge for a honeymoon or special occasion. With quick access to Seminyak Beach, this Balinese-inspired accommodation is built on 15 acres of tropical gardens. The Frangipani Cafe inside here is famed for its cuisine. Notables are their open-air massage pavilions and outdoor pool overlooking the ocean. Check out the latest prices on Booking.com * Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *

Sri Ratih Cottage, Ubud – Midrange

For those who are looking for unpretentious comfort with Balinese charm. Located in Ubud, our favorite place to stay in Bali, the Balinese-style cottages with carved wood furnishings are set in beautiful gardens with a pool. Check out the latest prices on Booking.com * Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *

See details: Complete 5 Days Bali Itinerary

Day 16 to 21 – lombok or gili islands.

If you want, you can also split the days with Lombok or the Gili Islands, which are recommended if you want to dive. Lombok is the sister to Bali, but minus the tourist crowds. Gili Islands would be your remote paradise, with no motorized vehicles on land and untouched seas for you to explore.

Where to stay in Lombok

The oberoi – luxury.

For those looking for the perfect getaway, be it for a honeymoon or special occasion. This hotel comes with tastefully designed private villas with a fantastic sea view. The outdoor pool also gives an illusion of nature, while a private beach is just a stone’s throw away. Check out the latest prices on Booking.com * Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *

Qunci Villas Hotel – Midrange

For those looking for tranquil beach resorts, every villa comes with a natural wood design with a garden or ocean views. It also has an outdoor pool with a fantastic sea view and is located directly on Mangsit Beach. There are also all kinds of amenities, from spas to galleries and restaurants. Check out the latest prices on Booking.com * Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *

Where to stay in Gili Islands

Pearl trawangan – gili trawangan.

A beachfront resort with an outdoor pool and bar, this place is ideal for those who want to relax in style. Styled with rustic designs, the individual huts are unique and inviting. Themed with a tropical island feel and filled with lush gardens, it is truly a dream to stay here. Prices start from 140 USD. Check out the latest prices and reviews at Booking.com * Check out the latest prices and reviews at Agoda.com

Seri Resort – Gili Meno

Located right on the white sandy shores, this beachfront accommodation has a clean and modern design, somewhat reminiscing of a sailor’s house with its stark white and blue theme. It also features an outdoor pool overlooking the sea. It is recommended with prices starting only from 60 USD. Check out the latest prices and reviews at Booking.com * Check out the latest prices and reviews at Agoda.com *

Manusia Dunia Green Lodge – Gili Air

This quaint and rustic design lodge will transport you back to the days of yore. Dreamlike but clean with traditional Indonesian hut designs, the place is cozy and inviting, with little touches of art. Just outside is the tranquil village of the island. A home away from him, prices starting only from 70 USD! Check out the latest prices and reviews at Booking.com * Check out the latest prices and reviews at Agoda.com *

See Lombok and Gili Islands Travel Guide

1 month indonesia itinerary – flores (day 22 to 30), day 22 to 28 – flores.

Hop on a Komodo boat tour from Bali to Flores , exploring remote islands, or fly directly from Bali to Komodo Island. Here, you will face the famous Komodo Dragon; few of its kind are left in the world. You will also find the best diving sites in Indonesia , with rich marine life and coral reefs.

See Flores Travel Guide

Day 29 to 30 – jakarta.

Return to Bali from Komodo Island, and from here, you may fly out via Denpasar International Airport *. Do some last-minute shopping before heading out, either flying back to Jakarta for transit or to other international places that Bali airport serves.

Comfortably counting all the travel days, this itinerary will take up to almost a month. There are also some buffer times if you want to do some sidetracking or stay longer in any place. This covers basically everything in Indonesia, from cityscape to cultural and historical beaches and nightlife. It includes the regions of Java, Bali, Lombok, and Flores. With this, you would have covered most of the best of Indonesia, but rest assured, there is more to explore next time you come back!

Go to: Indonesia Trip Planning

Living in Jakarta for more than 20 years now, she still has not covered the tip of Indonesia’s diverse destinations, people, and even food! Pearl loves shopping as much as enjoying luxury, but she knows all these have to be done sensibly and on a budget. Therefore you may find the best scoop and offers in Jakarta and beyond with her.

3 weeks itinerary for islands of indonesia.

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One Week Bali Itinerary: Getting To Know Bali

Our suggested one week Bali itinerary includes options on where to stay , places to visit and things to do , to take the hassle out of planning your Bali Holiday. We can also help you plan your trip to Bali and save you time by using our ‘ Bali One Week Itineraries ‘ printable PDF.

One Week Bali Itinerary

One of the travelling mistakes we seem to make time and time again is moving around too much and trying to fit too much in. It’s so easy to spend most of your time travelling, packing and unpacking. For this reason, we have suggested staying in only two different locations in a one week Bali Itinerary. We make some activity suggestions to give you some ideas, but once you’re there you will figure out things to do specifically for your interests.

Welcome to Bali! Start your holiday in Ubud . Here you will find yourself immersed in authentic Balinese culture and stunning landscapes. Depending what time your flight lands, you may not have a lot of time today as Ubud is approx. 2 hrs from the airport.

What you don’t do today, you can do on day 3.

Sleep: Ubud

Mandy & Chris Tips

Your first full day in Ubud. Do any tours or specific activities you want to do today.

Sleep: Ubud

Cooking class and Market Tour
Bike riding from the mountains down through local villages, finishing in Ubud
White water rafting on nearby rivers

Your last day in Ubud. Try some of the suggested activities below or just relax and enjoy Ubud Village and surrounds.

Go to Ibu Oka (aka. Suckling Pig) for Lunch
Try your hand at Bali arts and crafts @ ARMA or Pondak Pecak Library
Go for a walk to explore the natural beauty of Ubud
Take a taxi/driver to Mas Village, the woodcarving village and see some amazing wood furniture and sculptures.
Try yoga at Yoga Barn

Today you can leave Ubud early if you’re ready to move on or leave Ubud later if you still want more. Head to Seminyak when you’re ready by taxi/Driver. There are no official taxi’s in Ubud, but drivers with cars. Otherwise you can get a private driver and stop along the way to see more of Bali.

Sleep: Seminyak

Itinerary Variations

This is a fairly classic One Week Bali Itinerary, and within each location, you should find a variety of things to do that suit your interests.

The time frame above is just a guide of what we think is a good amount of time to spend in each location. Obviously, this depends on you and what you want to do on your holiday. So use our activity suggestions to help you figure out how long you want to stay where.

When in Ubud, make sure you explore the surrounds and not just Ubud Village. The surrounds are where you will find picturesque rice fields and luscious landscapes.

We chose Seminyak as the destination to spend the later part of your holiday as there are a lot of things to do here and surrounding areas. Some other options would be Jimbaran , Nusa dua , or Sanur (please see “ places ” for further info on these destinations).

So use our One Week Bali Itinerary as a guide only, and hopefully, it can help you build your own itinerary to make your Bali Holiday a memorable one. If you’re wanting to spend more time in Bali, take a look at our two week and three week itineraries .

Still need help planning your trip to Bali? Take a look at our Bali One Week Itineraries guide (a 62 page interactive PDF) to help you plan the perfect trip. Think of it as the value of an itinerary planning service, but with the convenience of getting and using it straight away.

18 Comments

Thanks for the insightful information.

Cheers Sushant

Thanks Sushant for your comment :)

Dear Mandy and Chris,

Fantastic blog, it’s of immense help.

I am looking to visit Bali on July, for my 1st marriage anniversary, we are planning for 5 nights. Kindly help me how can I plan my trip?

Hi Shantanu so happy to hear your words :) When planning 5-night trip I would say to try and stick to 1-2 destinations. You can always do a day trip or two but at least you won’t need to worry about checking-out and moving hotels every day. Wishing you both a beautiful anniversary!

Hi Mandy and Chris,

I shared your blog to many friends who planned to visit Bali and it was a great help to them. Finally I am travelling to Bali for Honeymoon. I am planning for 6 days in Bali. Me and my Wife are more of Beach person. Looking at that I planned – 2 Semiyak, 2 Days Kuta/Nusa Dua 2 days Ubud. This is very tight schedule. Can you please let us know if it stands good.

Hi Divyanshu, Thanks for sharing our blog and we are so excited for your honeymoon:) Sounds great, only thing I may suggest is only picking 2 places. Maybe pick one place out of Seminyak/Nusa Dua and spend 4 nights, so you do not need to move so much. I would say Ubud for 2 nights is the other place as it is different to the beachy places. Please let us know if you have any more questions :) Hope you and your wife have the best honeymoon!

Hi Mandy and Chris, I just stubbled upon your blog today and will be heading to Seminyak tomorrow.. I am so excited and foundalot of your blog very helpful!!! I can’t wait to try the coffee

Hi Melissa, thanks so much, so happy it’s been helpful! Have a great trip, hope you enjoyed the coffee ;) Let us know your favourite…

Thanks for this great info. Will be my first time travelling to Bali with my mum in December. Was a bit overwhelmed by the number of choices, but this site made choosing easy :)

Hi Joanna, so happy to hear that :) Hope you had a great trip!

Love the website! I plan on visiting Bali for a week with friends in February (I know it might be off season and raining then) and was looking at this guide for some sort of direction on what to do. I understand Ubud ofers a more tranquil experience with ample scope to unwind and explore but what if I want to split the next 4 days between something more adventurous and fun? Would you suggest Kuta since I’m looking for a few days in a place with decent nightlife. Please do update me!

Hi Hassaan, thanks so much :) In Ubud you can still do things like white water rafting and trekking volcano’s if your up for more adventure. But for nightlife I would definitely suggest staying somewhere between Kuta, Legian and Seminyak. I prefer the beach bars of Seminyak, but there are probably more ‘clubs’ in Kuta/Legian area. You can also get a taxi between the three areas if you need to. Have a great time in Bali :)

For 10 days do you still suggest 2 base hotels? Did you fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport for this?

Hi, if it’s your first time to Bali I think basing yourself in 2 different areas is a nice way to see 2 different sides to Bali. You could easily spend the entire 10 days in one hotel, if you’d prefer or if you want to see more, you could change to 3 different areas, but it wouldn’t be as relaxing. We flew into Ngurah Rai International airport… it is the only one in Bali. Hope you have an amazing time in Bali :)

Hi! Loving this blog as it is filling my head with countless ideas on how to plan my upcoming bali trip. One question though… when or what month was this one-week itinerary? Was it January 2015? I’m thinking about late February… any thoughts or feedback on that? let me know when you can… mahalo!!

Hi Kristen, thanks so much :) This particular itinerary is just a guide of how to spend a week in Bali, you can find some other itineraries here: https://almostlanding-bali.com/category/itineraries/

We have been in both wet and dry seasons (we are here now in wet season), and yes it rains more in the wet season, but it’s still pretty unpredictable. I really Bali is an all year round destination. Best chance of avoiding rain is the dry season, but during wet season the rain can still be short bursts with days of sunshine in between.

Hope this helps and have a great trip! Mandy and Chris :)

Hi there! its good to read your trip to Bali. I have leave next month and i will go to Bali for 5 days with my boyfriend. We’ll follow your blog! :) Good luck for both of you

Hi Louise, thanks so much that means a lot :) That’s so exciting, have an amazing time in Bali!

17 Things You Should Know Before Booking A Trip To Bali

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

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

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

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

More Things To Know Before Booking A Trip To Bali

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

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

Say Goodbye To Uber

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

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

Make Peace With The Monkeys

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

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

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

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

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

There's No Place Like Home

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

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

Not Every Beach Is Created Equal

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

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

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

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Dress To Impress (Respectfully)

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

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

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

Bring An Umbrella-Ella-Ella

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

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

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

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

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

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

Volcanoes Erupting Can Mean A No-Go

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

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

Look Both Ways Before You Cross The Street In Bali

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

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

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

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

Who Let The Dogs Out?

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

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

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

Bali Belly's Nothing To Be Worried About

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bring Your Best Hiking Boots (Or Sandals With Support)

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

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

Leeches In Bali May Want To Suck Your Blood

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

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

Bali Is A Great Place For Cheap Massages

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

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

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

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

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

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

17 Things You Should Know Before Booking A Trip To Bali

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How Much Does It Cost To Travel To Bali For One Month • Nomads With A
The Ultimate One Month Bali Travel Bucket List
Bali Itinerary For 1, 2, 3 and 4 weeks
1 month in Bali
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HOW TO TRAVEL BALI IN A MONTH || BALI TRAVEL GUIDE

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1 MOIS A BALI en 2021: COMBIEN ÇA COÛTE ? Vlog BALI #24
My First International Trip
Bali trip again #surf #bali #outdooradventure #exploremore
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BALI GROUP TRIP ✈️ #travel #grouptravel #bali
Some glimpse of Bali trip 😍 #vlog #travel #bali #travelvlog #indonesia #balivlogs

COMMENTS

The Perfect 1 Week, 2 Weeks, & 1 Month Bali, Indonesia Travel Itinerary
Bali two week Itinerary Day by Day Summary. Here I will summarize my Bali itinerary on a day by day basis. Again, this itinerary is just one of countless options you have at structuring your tirp. Day 1: Arrive in Bali, transfer to Canggu. Day 2: Full day Canggu. Day 3: Full day Canggu. Day 4: Canggu to Ubud.
Where to Go in Bali: 1 Month Bali Itinerary Trip
Week 1: Canggu and Seminyak. Source: Freepik. To start your first Bali Itinerary, you can visit Canggu and Seminyak since the two places are neighbours. Both are the place to go if you are looking for trendy beaches with restaurants, bars, day and night clubs. If you want to eat well, Seminyak's restaurants are the best in Bali.
How to Spend a Month in Bali
How to Spend a Month in Bali Nights 1 - 5: Seminyak / Canggu. To start your adventure, I would recommend staying in the south of Bali. ... Hi Meg, Just found your great blog - so helpful for first and likely only trip to Bali. We're planning on a month from Canada. November in our part of Canada is awful - dark by 4:30, dreary, first ...
The Ultimate Bali Itinerary: How To Plan The Perfect Trip To Bali
According to Bali.com, "The best time to come to Bali is April, May, June and September, just before and just after high season. It's still the dry season, it's slightly less humid, and room prices and villa rentals can be 30-50% cheaper than during high season.
One Month Bali Itinerary For Backpackers
Bali is one of those dream travel destinations that is on pretty much everybody's radar. There's just something about this paradise island that attracts all sorts of travelers. From the partying backpackers like myself to the honeymooners and expats and retirees, Bali does not discriminate against anyone. No matter who you are, a month in… Read More One Month Bali Itinerary For Backpackers
1 Month Itinerary in Bali
How to have the most epic 1 month trip in Bali! Where to eat, where to stay, what to see, budget and more! We have your perfect 1 month itinerary in Bali.
One Month Backpacking Indonesia Itinerary for First-Timers
This one-month itinerary will take you from Java to Bali, Lombok to Flores, and more. Subscribe to get updates on the latest posts! Subscribe. BucketListly Blog ... If you are visiting Bali for the first time, here is a travel guide to get you started: 10 BEST Places To Visit In Bali.
Best Time to Visit Bali: Month by Month Breakdown
Bali Dry Season. The dry season is the best time to visit Bali when it comes to the weather because for half of the year you can expect beautiful clear skies and almost no rainfall. The dry season in Bali runs from May to October, although this can vary each year. The peak months are the height of the Balinese winter, which is June, July, and ...
Backpacking Bali
1 Month Travel Itinerary for Bali: The Grand Tour. 1.Uluwatu, 2.Sanur, 3.Nusa Lembongan, 4.Kuta, 5.Canggu, 6.Ubud, 7.Bedugul (Ulun Danu temple), 8.Munduk, 9.Lovina, 10.Kintamani, 11.Sideman, 12.Amed, 13.Denpasar ... and leave plenty for beer and attractions. A 1 month in Bali budget could be as low as 1,000 USD. Personally, though, my Bali ...
Bali Itinerary For 1, 2, 3 and 4 weeks
Here is a breakdown of our one month in Bali: 7 nights in Bali - Padang Padang Beach, Uluwatu, Bukit Peninsula. 5 nights in Bali - Canggu. 1 night in Bali - Sanur (this one didn't turn out well!) 4 nights in Bali - Amed. 3 nights in Bali - Sidemen.
One Week in Bali: The Best Travel Itinerary
You can spend a whole day exploring Mt. Kintamani, various temples, waterfalls, and a whole lot more. During this one-week itinerary, you could easily add a 1 Night Trip to the Gili Islands (substituted from Ubud). Enjoy the affordable Balinese massages as much as possible.
Ultimate 1-Month Bali Itinerary With Kids
We share our 1-month Bali itinerary so you too can have the best trip of your life with your kids! FREE Shipping to Canada and USA on orders 49$+ | 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed | Lifetime Guarantee* Languages. ... Costs of a 1-month trip in Bali. Bali can be super cheap, it all depends on your accommodation and food choices 😉 ...
1-Week Bali Travel Itinerary: Monkeys, Temples, & Beaches
1-Week Bali Travel Itinerary: Monkeys, Temples, & Beaches. by David & Intan April 8, 2024. Bali has such an amazing variety of things to see and do: jungles, temples, markets, beaches, waterfalls, green rice paddies, and so much more. One week won't be nearly enough time to see it all, and a week spent in Bali feels more like a day (trust me ...
How Much Does It Cost To Travel To Bali For One Month
To summarize: Our original Airbnb in rural Medewi was $750 for 28 days (even though we only stayed for about 14 of those days) Airbnbs on our 11-day road trip around Bali including Canggu, Seminyak, Ubud, and Munduk cost $880. And finally, our Airbnb for one week in Canggu in a really nice house was $700. While our Airbnb in Canguu may seem ...
The Perfect One Week Bali Itinerary For First-Time Visitors
Introduction. Quick Facts About Bali. Day 1 - Arrive in Bali and go straight to Ubud. Day 2 - Explore Ubud. Day 3 - Day trip to Nusa Penida and drop off in Seminyak. Day 4 - Surf Lessons in Kuta & Explore Seminyak/Canggu. Day 5 - Explore Seminyak and Head to Uluwatu. Day 6 - Full Day in Uluwatu.
The Perfect One-Week (Or More!) Bali Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
An easy conversion to remember is that 15,000 IDR ("Indonesian Rupiah") equates to roughly 1 USD. Respect the Culture & "Bali Vibes" For your one-week trip in Bali, you'll mostly be visiting areas where people generally speak at least some English and restaurants and hotels have been Westernized.
How Much Does a Bali Trip Cost? (Prices for 2024/2025)
The most expensive months are from April to September, especially the Easter vacation period and summer holiday season (June to August). Airline Ticket Prices from Major Cities to Bali (round trip): New York, United States: From 1,500 USD . Flying to Bali from New York requires at least one stopover. Sydney, Australia: From 800 USD. Flying out ...
1 Week in Bali
Itinerary #1: Discover Bali's Waterfalls: Munduk, Pumuteran & Sanur. Crafted for travelers eager to experience the many fascinating temples, roaring waterfalls, and tucked-away villages Bali is renowned for, this weeklong trip promises a well-rounded adventure. Starting with three nights in Munduk, you'll immerse yourself in the northern highland landscapes with hikes, guided tours, and visits ...
Bali Travel Cost
Two people traveling together for one month in Bali will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week. A one month trip to Bali on average costs around $2,191 (Rp35,308,141) for one person and $4,381 (Rp70,616,282) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to ...
What to Do in Bali: A One-Week Itinerary For First-Timers
But if you're just visiting Bali for 1 week, rest assured, you will be able to see, taste, and experience a good deal of what Bali has to offer! Here is my recommended 1-week itinerary for exploring Bali! This guide will show you how you can experience Nusa Dua, Uluwatu, Nusa Penida, Ubud, and Canggu in 7 days. Let's go!
Bali Bliss: A Perfect 1-Day Itinerary
Embark on a whirlwind adventure through Bali with our expertly curated 1-day itinerary. Begin your journey with a spiritual visit to the picturesque Tanah Lot Temple, a serene sanctuary set on a rocky islet, offering breathtaking views and a rich cultural experience. Allocate two hours to soak in the tranquility and capture stunning photographs.
1 Month Indonesia Itinerary
1 Month Indonesia Itinerary - Java (Day 1 to 10) Day 1 to 3 - Jakarta. Where to stay in Jakarta. Day 4 to 7- Yogyakarta. Where to stay in Yogyakarta. Day 8 to 10 - Mount Bromo. Where to stay near Mount Bromo. 1 Month Indonesia Itinerary - Bali, Lombok, and Gili Islands (Day 11 to 21) Day 11 to 15 - Bali.
One Week Bali Itinerary: Getting To Know Bali
Our suggested one week Bali itinerary includes options on where to stay, places to visit and things to do, to take the stress out of planning your Bali trip. ... Hi there! its good to read your trip to Bali. I have leave next month and i will go to Bali for 5 days with my boyfriend. We'll follow your blog! :) Good luck for both of you. Reply.
17 Things You Should Know Before Booking A Trip To Bali
The minimum wage in Bali is around $140 a month and as a guest to the island travelers should always tip. ... There are a lot of really fun and relaxing things one can do when they take a trip to ...
Cheap Flights from Manila to Bali (Denpasar)
Flex your dates to find the best Manila-Bali (Denpasar) ticket prices. If you're flexible when it comes to your travel dates, use Skyscanner's "Whole month" tool to find the cheapest month, and even day to fly to Bali (Denpasar) from Manila. Set up a Price Alert.