Planning a trip to Bali? This guide helps you determine the ideal amount of time to spend in each location, based on your interests and travel style. Discover the best places to visit in Bali and how to make the most of your time.
Let's plan your Indonesian adventure, focusing on the ideal time to spend in Bali and highlighting other must-see attractions across the archipelago. Remember, the perfect duration depends on your interests and travel style!
Bali: The Island of the Gods (Recommended Time & Activities)
To truly experience the diverse beauty and culture of Bali, we recommend spending a minimum of 7-10 days. Here's a breakdown of how you might allocate your time across popular regions, incorporating top things to do in Bali:
Ubud: Cultural Heart (3-5 days)
The cultural heart of Bali, Ubud, is a must-visit for its spiritual ambiance, lush landscapes, and artistic scene. Explore the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Bali's traditional irrigation system. For a truly sacred experience, visit Tirta Empul Temple and partake in a purification ritual. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Ubud Monkey Forest, home to playful macaques. Immerse yourself in art at the Ubud Art Market, a treasure trove of souvenirs. Find inner peace and rejuvenation at a Bali yoga retreat, with numerous studios offering classes for all levels. Don't miss the chance to chase the cascading waters of Tegenungan Waterfall, a popular spot for a refreshing dip. This forms a core part of any comprehensive Bali itinerary.
Seminyak & Canggu: Beaches and Buzz (3-5 days)
For those seeking vibrant beaches, trendy cafes, stylish boutiques, and a lively nightlife, Seminyak and neighboring Canggu are excellent choices. Relax on Seminyak Beach or Echo Beach Canggu, a renowned surf spot. Enjoy sunset cocktails at world-famous Bali beach clubs like Potato Head or La Favela, indulge in spa treatments, and shop along the fashionable streets offering fantastic Seminyak shopping experiences.
Uluwatu: Cliffside Majesty (2-3 days)
Located on the southern tip of Bali, Uluwatu is renowned for its dramatic cliffside scenery, world-class surf breaks, and stunning sunset views. Visit the iconic Uluwatu Temple, perched precariously on a cliff overlooking the ocean, witness the mesmerizing Kecak dance Uluwatu, a traditional Balinese performance that takes place as the sun dips below the horizon. Relax on beautiful beaches like Padang Padang Beach and Bingin Beach, and enjoy surfing Uluwatu at its famous breaks.
Nusa Islands: Coastal Paradise (2-4 days)
For a change of pace, take a fast boat to the nearby Nusa Islands Bali, where you can easily spend time exploring Nusa Penida day trip, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan. On Nusa Penida, marvel at the breathtaking Kelingking Beach, often referred to as T-Rex Bay due to its unique shape. Swim in the natural infinity pool of Angel's Billabong and explore the dramatic coastal formations of Broken Beach Nusa Penida. The crystal-clear waters surrounding these islands are perfect for snorkeling Nusa Lembongan and diving Bali, where you might encounter manta rays and vibrant coral reefs.
Sanur: Laid-Back Charm (2-3 days)
If you're looking for a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, Sanur on the eastern coast is a great option. Enjoy the calm waters of Sanur beach, perfect for swimming and kayaking, witness a beautiful Sunrise Sanur, explore the local Sanur markets for handicrafts and souvenirs.
(Optional) Other Areas: Depending on your interests, you might consider spending time in areas like Amed (2-3 days) for fantastic Amed Bali diving and snorkeling, or Lovina (2-3 days) in North Bali for Lovina dolphin watching and quieter beaches.
Beyond Bali: Exploring More of Indonesia
Your Indonesia travel guide wouldn't be complete without exploring beyond Bali:
Java:
Yogyakarta (3-4 days): Immerse yourself in Javanese culture, visit the magnificent Borobudur Temple Java and the stunning Prambanan Temple Yogyakarta.
Mount Bromo (2 days/1 night): Witness a breathtaking Mount Bromo sunrise.
Lombok (3-5 days): Explore stunning Lombok travel destinations, including the Mount Rinjani trek and beautiful Lombok waterfalls.
Flores (4-6 days): Discover the unique wildlife of Komodo National Park.
Sumatra (5-7 days): Explore the beauty of Lake Toba Sumatra and see Orangutans Sumatra in their natural habitat.
Remember to tailor your Indonesia travel guide and itinerary based on your personal interests and the time you have available!
Sample Bali 7-Day Itinerary (Focus on Highlights):
Day 1: Arrival in Bali & Ubud's Cultural Charm (Bali itinerary)
Arrive at Denpasar Airport (DPS) and transfer to Ubud Bali.
Check into your accommodation and relax.
Evening: Explore the Ubud Art Market for souvenirs and enjoy a traditional Balinese dinner.
Day 2: Ubud's Spiritual & Natural Wonders (Things to do in Ubud Bali)
Morning: Visit the sacred Tirta Empul Temple for a purification ritual.
Afternoon: Explore the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces and take some memorable photos.
Late Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the Ubud Monkey Forest.
Day 3: Waterfalls & Relaxation (Tegenungan Waterfall)
Morning: Chase the cascading waters of Tegenungan Waterfall and enjoy a refreshing swim.
Afternoon: Indulge in a Bali yoga retreat or spa treatment in Ubud.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Balinese dance performance.
Day 4: Transfer to Seminyak & Beach Vibes (Seminyak Beach)
Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast in Ubud and transfer to Seminyak.
Afternoon: Relax and soak up the sun on Seminyak Beach.
Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife and enjoy sunset cocktails at a Bali beach club.
Day 5: Surfing & Trendy Scenes (Surf Bali, Canggu things to do)
Morning: Learn to surf Bali at Kuta Beach (nearby) or head to Echo Beach Canggu for more experienced surfers.
Afternoon: Explore the trendy cafes and boutiques of Canggu.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of Canggu's popular restaurants.
Day 6: Cliffside Majesty & Sunset Views (Uluwatu Temple)
Afternoon: Head south to Uluwatu attractions.
Late Afternoon: Visit the iconic Uluwatu Temple perched on the cliff.
Evening: Witness the mesmerizing Kecak dance Uluwatu at sunset with breathtaking ocean views.
Day 7: Departure (Bali itinerary)
Enjoy a final Balinese breakfast.
Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for some last-minute Seminyak shopping before transferring to Denpasar Airport (DPS) for your departure.
Sample Bali 10-Day Itinerary (Including Nusa Islands & Sanur):
Day 1: Arrival in Bali & Ubud's Cultural Charm (Bali itinerary)
Arrive at Denpasar Airport (DPS) and transfer to Ubud Bali.
Check into your accommodation and relax.
Evening: Explore the Ubud Art Market for souvenirs and enjoy a traditional Balinese dinner.
Day 2: Ubud's Spiritual & Natural Wonders (Things to do in Ubud Bali)
Morning: Visit the sacred Tirta Empul Temple for a purification ritual.
Afternoon: Explore the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces and take some memorable photos.
Late Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the Ubud Monkey Forest.
Day 3: Waterfalls & Relaxation (Tegenungan Waterfall)
Morning: Chase the cascading waters of Tegenungan Waterfall and enjoy a refreshing swim.
Afternoon: Indulge in a Bali yoga retreat or spa treatment in Ubud.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Balinese dance performance.
Day 4: Transfer to Nusa Lembongan & Island Exploration (Nusa Islands Bali)
Morning: Transfer from Ubud to Sanur and take a fast boat to Nusa Lembongan.
Afternoon: Explore Nusa Lembongan by scooter, visit Mushroom Bay and Dream Beach.
Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner with ocean views.
Day 5: Nusa Penida's Stunning Coastline (Nusa Penida day trip)
Full Day Trip to Nusa Penida: Visit the iconic Kelingking Beach, Angel's Billabong, and Broken Beach Nusa Penida. Consider snorkeling Nusa Lembongan on the way back.
Day 6: Return to Bali & Sanur's Laid-Back Charm (Sanur beach)
Morning: Return by fast boat to Sanur.
Afternoon: Relax on Sanur beach, enjoy swimming or kayaking.
Evening: Explore the local restaurants and enjoy a peaceful evening in Sanur.
Day 7: Sunrise Sanur & Transfer to Seminyak.
Enjoy the calm waters or explore Sanur markets. Transfer to Seminyak in the afternoon.
Day 8: Surfing & Trendy Scenes (Surf Bali, Canggu things to do)
Morning: Learn to surf Bali at Kuta Beach (nearby) or head to Echo Beach Canggu for more experienced surfers.
Afternoon: Explore the trendy cafes and boutiques of Canggu.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of Canggu's popular restaurants.
Day 9: Cliffside Majesty & Sunset Views (Uluwatu Temple)
Afternoon: Head south to Uluwatu attractions.
Late Afternoon: Visit the iconic Uluwatu Temple perched on the cliff.
Evening: Witness the mesmerizing Kecak dance Uluwatu at sunset with breathtaking ocean views.
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Day 10: Departure (Bali itinerary)
Enjoy a final Balinese breakfast and some last-minute souvenir shopping before transferring to Denpasar Airport (DPS) for your departure.
