The centrally-located, picturesque village of Ubud is famously known as the spiritual and cultural center of Bali, as well as the ‘heart’ of the island, and with everything it has to offer it’s easy to see why.
Surrounded by lush rice paddies and the magnificent Mount Batur looming in the distance, you’ll be amazed by how much there is to see and do in Ubud – but at the same time, you could come here and do nothing at all, and feel utterly at peace – in a dreamy paradise away from the stress and bustle of modern daily life.
What makes Ubud unique from the rest of Bali? It’s the place where most of Bali’s arts is located: there are numerous colorful museums, galleries and traditional Balinese dance events. Plus, there’s plenty of spas and massage spots, yoga retreats, dainty temples, a diverse food scene offering some of the best organic and vegetarian cuisine in Bali.
Wondering what to do in Ubud with family? Or you might be traveling solo or as a couple, Ubud has something for everyone – cultural activities, breathtaking waterfalls, gorgeous rice paddies, lush eateries, and loads of iconic places of interest, just a short drive away.
Scroll on to read: 27 Amazing Things to Do in Ubud, Bali (2023 Edition)
Table of Contents
Ubud tourist information
What is the best way to travel around Ubud?
The best way to get around the Ubud is by scooter, and for Bali in general is with a private local driver known as a ‘Bali driver’, it’s affordable and hassle free, giving you peace of mind whilst allowing you to visit hard-to-reach places.
Car: It’s left hand drive in Bali and the roads here are easy to navigate within villages and resorts, although they are very bumpy inland between regions. You can hire a rental car here.
Walking: It’s easy and convenient to walk around Ubud town.
Scooter: the most common way to get around for locals and tourists alike, it’s very easy to ride a scooter here. You can book a scooter or bike here.
What is the best time to visit Bali?
Ubud Attractions Map
Ubud Essentials Checklist:
- An excellent pair of walking shoes (for all that walking and trekking)
- A hoodie or warm sweater (for chilly evenings especially in winter)
- A sarong for women and for men is essential for entering Bali temples and other sacred places
- A good quality compact camera (for taking great pics)
Essential Bali Travel Resources:
For more useful travel information on Bali, check out these articles:
27 Amazing Things to Do in Ubud, Bali (2023 Edition)
#1. Visit Pura Besakih Great Temple
Contributed by Caleb of The Pazook Travel Journal
Pura Besakih is the largest (and holiest) temple complex in Bali. The Hindu temple was completed in the 15th century and owes a portion of its beauty to the breathtaking views of Mount Agung in the distance.
Plan to spend at least 2 hours exploring the temple, taking pictures, and watching ancient rituals. You can get from Ubud to Pura Besakih by booking a day tour, but some people prefer to rent a scooter and drive themselves.
Get here as early as you can. Pura Besakih is open every day from 8 am – 6 pm, but it gets crowded in the late morning – afternoon.
You are required to cover your shoulders and knees to enter. Consider buying a sarong in Ubud to use so that you don’t have to wear pants in the Bali heat.
#2. Shopping in Ubud Market
Contributed by Una from Wandernity
Ubud market is a must-visit place to see a part of the everyday life of the locals. Just be sure to visit it in the morning when it’s the most active.
Here you can find a variety of budget-friendly things and services. Locals buy here food and flowers for the daily offerings to the gods. Tourists can find here souvenirs that you might not see anywhere else – different locally colored goods made of fabrics, wood, metal, and other materials. You can also find the usual T-shirts with “I love Bali” signs, magnets, silver earrings, and services like a hairdresser and shoe repair.
Before you buy anything, convert the price from the local currency to your own. It is expected to haggle, so the starting price might be outrageous. Sometimes the fair price is a quarter of the starting price or even less. And remember to bring cash as it’s almost impossible to pay with a card in Ubud Market.
#3. Explore Ubud's Waterfalls
Bali is famous for its huge, breathtaking waterfalls and having so many of them. The great thing about Ubud is that it’s surrounded by some of the best waterfalls on the island, and the main waterfalls around Ubud are:
- Kanto Lampo waterfalls – ★4.5
- Tegenungan waterfall – ★4.3
- Tukad Cepung waterfall – ★4.6
- Tibumana waterfall – ★4.5
- Goa Rang Reng waterfall – ★4.7
Easily a highlight of Bali Ubud things to do, I highly recommend visiting at least a couple of these majestic waterfalls, especially during the golden hours.
Getting to the waterfalls can be a little challenging. There’s lots of walking and climbing steep steps. Some waterfalls are more tricky to reach than others, but they are worth it, trust me.
Remember, even though the above waterfalls are in close proximity to Ubud, it will still take you a long time to get to them because of the layout of Bali’s infamous roads, which are rocky and winding. Even then, once parked at the site – it will take you at least 15 minutes of walking (and trekking) steep stairs to reach the waterfall, sometimes longer.
#4. Goa Gajah Temple
Contributed by David & Intan of The World Travel Guy
The Goa Gajah temple is an interesting Ubud cave that also serves as a temple and ancient historical site. This is a famous Bali temple that dates back to the 9th century, and the face at the front of the cave is great for pictures, because it looks like the mouth of some kind of stone monster!
When you walk into the mouth of the cave, the inside has a narrow path that goes about 15 meters (50 feet) deep, where you’ll find some Hindu incense baskets burning. There’s not a whole lot to see inside, but it’s still very interesting. On the outside of the cave, there’s also a photogenic banyan tree with giant roots.
#5. Go White Water Rafting
Contributed by Carryn Beard of Torn Tackies
If you want to escape the crowds and experience natural beauty off the beaten track, I highly recommend white water rafting in Bali.
You’ll go on a journey rafting alongside cascading waterfalls and towering coconut trees while being surrounded by lush jungles and rice fields. The rapids aren’t intense and it’s the perfect day trip for all travelers.
And the best place to go rafting? Ubud! There are two rivers that offer rafting opportunities.
The Ayung River is a 10km course and is only a 20-minute drive away from Ubud. This is the recommended option if you’re short on time.
But if you’re looking for the longest and most thrilling course, I recommend the Telaga Waja River. At 16km long, it offers a longer course and an epic drop at the end.
#6. Base Yourself Out of Town
Something I discovered about Ubud town center is that, while there are hidden gems to be found, its rather quite congested with traffic, souvenir shops, and tour groups. All the most impressive scenery – the lowlands and rice paddy backdrops – are further out in the surrounding countryside.
As such, you’re better off staying somewhere outside of Ubud centre, ideally somewhere with idyllic views of rice fields. While I stayed right in the heart of Ubud Bali on my first trip, the second time I ended up staying a good couple of miles away, and I even ended up extending our stay in Ubud (and Bali) by a month. One of the best things you can do in Bali is relax by your own pool with the most stunning views of the rice fields or jungles.
In Ubud there’s loads of accommodation options from budget homestays to luxury resorts. You can find plenty of superb choices on Booking.com.
If you’re happy to stay in the center of town (and it’s well-worth considering homestays as it benefits the locals), here are some of my best recommendations – they are very affordable and have rave reviews (plus they include excellent breakfast and free cancellation):
- Budget: Dekwah Homestay (private en-suite double room) – Superb 9.1
- Budget: Sastra Ubud House (deluxe double room) – Exceptional 9.5
If you’re looking to stay in a villa with a pool, or a deluxe private room in a more scenic, quieter spot further out of town, I highly recommend these:
- Luxury: Cahaya Indah Villas (villa with private pool) – Superb 9.4
- Mid-range: The Kalyana Ubud Resort (deluxe double or twin with garden view) – Superb 9.1
- Mid-range: Campuhan Sebatu Resort (deluxe room with valley view) – Superb 9.0
#7. Sunrise Hike up Mount Batur
Contributed by Kelly of Girl With The Passport
If you’re looking for one of the best things to do in Ubud, Bali then you can’t beat a guided sunrise hike up Mount Batur.
Not only are the views from the top absolutely stunning, but your tour guide will pick you up/drop you off from your hotel and guide you right up the mountain. It’s also a great activity for anyone traveling to Bali solo since you get to hike as part of a small group.
Plus, you will be able to use headlamps so that you can actually see where you’re hiking. Just be sure to wear good hiking shoes since the trail is quite steep and sandy. As a result, many people were slipping and failing because they didn’t wear proper shoes.
Also, make sure that you are at least semi-physically fit since this hike is steep and not meant for those who haven’t been active for awhile.
However, your hard work will be rewarded handsomely with breakfast at the top that includes hard-boiled eggs, banana sandwiches, tea/coffee, and even some cookies.
#8. Enjoy a Balinese Massage
Contributed by Soline Le Page of On The Road Diary
Ubud is known as the spiritual capital of the island. You’re surrounded by some of the best waterfalls in Bali, nature is in perfect harmony with the atmosphere of the town… And one good news never comes alone: that is the absolute best place to get a balinese massage!
In order to be connected to nature to the fullest, we cannot recommend you enough to get a massage in Ubud. The Balinese massage is an excellent choice for those who want to take care of their entire bodies. From head-to-toe, this full body treatment will leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed!
One place we instantly fell in love with when walking around Ubud is Spa by Clear Cafe. The atmosphere of the place is soft, flowery, and their massages are obviously amazing.
#9. Marvel at the Rice Terraces of Tegallalang
One of the things Bali is best known for is its vast landscapes of breathtaking rice terraces that stretch down valleys as far as the eye can see. There are two main spots for marveling at this incredible wonder: Jatiluwih Rice Terraces (the largest of all), and Tegallalang Rice Terraces.
The unique rice paddies phenomenon is an ancient technology in which farmers have cultivated rice for thousands of years and the method has never changed to this day.
Tegallalang is the smaller and most touristy of them – due to the numerous stalls and restaurants lining the one side, and the famous ‘Bali Swings’ that so many visitors yearn to ride on for that all-important instagrammable snap.
If you’re in Ubud, it’s just a short scooter ride away to Tegallalang so is definitely worth the the visit, however if you do get chance in your Bali itinerary, make the trip to the Jatiluwih Rice paddies – Bali’s first-ever UNESCO World Heritage Site.
#10. Explore Ubud Palace
Contributed by Kenny Chow from Knycx Journeying
Ubud’s Royal Palace is at the heart of the city of Ubud in Bali and it is a historic heritage for being the official residence of the royal family of Ubud for centuries. The building complex dated back to 1640 and had undergone major renovation and extension in the reign of King Tjokorda Putu Kandel in the early 19th century. Now, it is the heirs of the last Balinese King who reside in the palace.
The site that visitors see today is a restoration as the palace collapsed during the 1917 earthquake. However, the palace featured intricate architectural details, a private temple, and meeting venues. Check out the Pura Marajan Agung Temple in the north, the beautiful ornamental carvings is an eye-opener to Balinese history and art.
#11. Bathe at Pura Tirta Empul
Not all popular tourist attractions are worth the crowds, but the sacred Tirta Empul water temple is an exception. Founded in 962AD, it’s one of the most famous temples in Bali, dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu.
The temple allows visitors to partake in a lengthy purification ritual experience alongside the locals (and some out-of-town pilgrims) in the holy natural pools. Not far from Ubud, it’s another must-visit place to tick off on your list of things to do in Bali.
#12. Visit Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets
Recommended by Soumya from Stories by Soumya
One of the unique things to do in Ubud is to visit the Setia Darma Museum of Masks and Puppets. Home to more than 1300 masks and 5500 puppets from all parts of Indonesia and abroad, this museum is a cultural treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
The Setia Darma Museum is located in a picturesque setting within a beautiful tropical garden surrounded by lush green rice fields. Traditional Javanese wooden houses called the joglos function as the display rooms for thousands of masks and puppets.
Indonesian puppets are higher in number but some joglos also have collections from China, Japan, Myanmar, and a few African countries. The highlight, however, is seeing the Indonesian shadow puppets called Wayang Kulit that are inscribed on the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
#13. Campuhan Ridge Walk
Contributed by Victoria Maria from Guide Your Travel Blog
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is located just a short drive outside of town and makes for the perfect stop on a day trip to Ubud.
This walk is best done in the early morning when it’s not too hot yet and you will only find a handful of other people around. During midday the trail can become very crowded which can take away from the experience.
#14. Bamboo Forest & Penglipuran Village
A short drive from Ubud takes you to Penglipuran Village – a beautiful and neatly laid out village set just next to the Bamboo Forest.
This is good place to admire the ancient Balinese architecture and culture, and see the locals put on traditional dance shows.
Once you’ve strolled around this scenic village, make your way to the nearby Bamboo Forest – there’s a cobbled path trail that leads through the forest and back onto the road.
#15. Go Cafe Hopping
Contributed by Natalie from Voyage Scribe
Besides Canggu, Ubud has some of the best cafes in Bali. Whether you’re a digital nomad looking for a workspace, a traveler looking for somewhere to spend the day reading and journal writing or a tourist looking for delicious food in an Instagrammable space, Ubud is the place to go.
Many of Ubud’s cafes serve health-conscious foods, such as vegan or ayurvedic items. It’s one of the few places outside of Bali’s coastal areas where you can find a wide variety of Western food, as well.
In the weeks I spent there, one of my favorite things to do in Ubud was cafe hopping and trying to visit all the many cafes.
Some of my favorites were the Lazy Cat Cafe (delicious vegan food in an Instagrammable cafe), Clear Cafe (one of the most beautiful cafes in Ubud), Mudra Cafe (for yummy food- I recommend the smoothies) and the cafes at yoga studios like The Yoga Barn and Radiantly Alive (Chandra Cafe).
Top 10 Independent Cafes in Ubud
Top 10 Cheap Eats in Ubud
#16. Wander the Sacred Monkey Forest
Contributed by Erin of Savannah First-Timer’s Guide
The Sacred Monkey Forest is located in the heart of Ubud and is home to a variety of mischievous long-tailed macaques. It’s fun to visit and watch them in their natural habitat, but there are a few tips to keep in mind while you’re there.
Make sure anything of value is stowed securely inside a bag or checked into a locker before entering the forest – especially sparkly items. Monkeys are naughty creatures, and they will steal jewelry and carry it high into the treetops!
It’s also important to realize the forest is a sacred place and home to three Hindu temples. As such, make sure you dress to fit in with the locals and avoid wearing anything that would be considered distasteful.
You’ll need to respect the monkeys, as well, and remember they are wild animals. Try not to provoke them, and don’t carry food into the jungle unless it was purchased by one of the nearby vendors. Feeding instructions and general safety tips should be clearly posted near the entrance to the forest.
#17. Watch a Kecak dance performance
Contributed by De Wet & Jin from Museum of Wander
Watching a Kecak fire dance while in Ubud is one of the cultural highlights of Bali and should not be missed.
The Kecak dance starting at sunset, is held in the open air at Pura Dalem temple, and the setting is magical. What makes the Kecak so unique is that the show involves no musical instruments, only relying on the mesmerising chants of a troupe of barechested men dressed in sarongs, around 50-60 of them. A traditional gamelan orchestra usually accompanies Balinese dance, but that’s not the case with the Kecak.
The Kecak tells the story of the Ramayana. Prince Rama and his wife are strolling in the forest when the evil Rawhana kidnaps his wife. The prince seeks help from the Monkey king, and the show portrays the battle between the monkeys and Rawhana. Balinese Kecak dance is also called a trance dance, as the troupe of monkey-men seems to enter another realm as they chant cak-cak-cak-kecak uninterrupted for the entire duration of the show.
Pura Dalem Dalem hosts the Kecak dance twice a week (schedules have kept changing due to covid) and starts around 19:30. Get there by 19:00 to get a front-row seat.
#18. Lempuyang Temple & Tirta Gangga day trip
One of the most picturesque, and spiritual places on Bali, the Gates Of Heaven is also probably THE most instagrammable spot.
Due to its popularity, there are a lot of tourists here, so you will need to get in the queue to have that iconic photo taken at the gate.
The best time to visit is during the golden hours – some locals will tell you sunrise is best, and others will say sunset. I went at sunset, but I think sunrise would have been better.
Having said that, be sure to plan ahead, as Lempuyang Temple is on the far eastern side of the island, about 2 hours drive from Ubud. So you will need to consider leaving Ubud around 3am, or spending a night in nearby Tirta Gangga.
I absolutely recommend making the trip to Lempuyang to witness this incredible landmark and get your insta-worthy pics taken. Speaking of which, you can go on a full-day instagram highlights tour here.
#19. Bali Swing
Contributed by Kerry Reed from VeggTravel
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Ubud, then the Bali swing should be top of your list. Not only are the panoramic views of the lush green rice terraces spectacular, but you’ll get an adrenaline rush to top it off.
The Bali Swing in Ubud is only 4km from the centre so this makes a convenient organised day trip or fun moped ride. There are over 18 jungle swings to try, some are meant for solo action whereas you can enjoy others as a couple or even a family. The swings will take you to heights between 10 meters to 78 meters off the ground. The giant swing is the only one where you are securely harnessed in, similar to what you would expect at a theme park. Prepare for a thrill as you catapult into the jungle with speed.
#20. Rent a Scooter in Ubud
Contributed by Catherine Xu of Nomadicated
Imagine feeling the wind in your helmet-covered hair as you zoom past Ubud’s sacred temples and verdant rice fields in your 125cc scooter. Renting a scooter in Bali is easy, fun, and the best way to get around this Indonesian island. All you need is a valid driver’s license and a sense of adventure.
Before you hit the open road, familiarize yourself with the basic traffic laws in Indonesia. Motorcycles must drive on the left side of the road, and all vehicles must yield to those coming from the right. Helmets are required by law, and it’s a good idea to wear one even if you’re not required to.
The traffic in Ubud and southern Bali can be chaotic, but as you go further north, you’ll find the roads are much emptier but may be less maintained. Wherever you go, drive carefully.
#21. Take up a traditional Cooking class
Contributed by Leah from Alex and Leah On Tour
If you’re looking for things to do in Ubud, why not think outside the box and book a traditional Balinese cooking class.
Here you can make absolutely everything from scratch, under the guidance of a Balinese chef. Once you’ve completed the multiple dishes (starters included), you can sit down and enjoy the yummy food all together.
The whole experience costs 350K rupiah but this includes pick-up and drop off from Ubud. This part is incredibly handy as the Grab or taxi would take up a significant proportion of this fee.
Each class is entirely different but easily adaptable to your dietary requirements and preferences. You should definitely learn how to make traditional Mie Goreng, Nazi Goreng, Sate Ayam or Klepon as there are no other tastes like it.
What makes this experience so unique is that you literally cannot replicate the authenticity of being taught by a Balinese local on how to cook Balinese food.
#22. Visit the Blanco Renaissance Museum
If you only get chance to visit one of Ubud’s many museums, make it the Blanco Renaissance Museum.
Located right in the heart of Ubud town, the entrance is a unique gateway and on arrival you are literally adorned with large exotic birds!
Inside the museum, you’re taken back in time to explore and experience the beautiful art collection of the award-winning maestro Don Antonio Blanco.
Born in 1912 in the Philippines to Spanish parents, Blanco lived and worked in the US before settling in Ubud after marrying a Balinese dancer in 1953. It’s here in Ubud where Blanco realized his dreams in life and work, building a large house and studio which became the museum he’d always dreamed of.
The Blanco Museum is centrally located in town and is one of the best Ubud attractions for all types of travelers.
#23. Stroll around Pura Gunung Kawi
Contributed by Annelies from Travelers & Dreamers
Visiting Gunung Kawi’s temples is a must-do when visiting Ubud in Bali. The site is located in Tampaksiring, which lies 14 kilometers northeast of Ubud. It makes for an easy day trip from Ubud, combining Gunung Kawi’s temples with The holy temple of Tirta Empul and The Tegallalang rice terraces, which are only a few kilometers away from the temple complex.
The temples of Gunung Kawi consist of ten “candi”. These shrine reliefs, carved into the face of a rock cliff are believed to be created in the 11th century and are said to be the burial complex of King Anak Wungsu and his wives and concubines. Although there is some ambiguity about this temple complex’s origin and function, the beauty and mystique of this place are mesmerizing.
General Information about Ubud, Bali
- Area: 42.38km squared
- Weather: 22C (winter), 30C (summer)
- Population: 74,800
- Founded: 8th century AD
- International Airport: Ngurah Rai International Airport, Denpasar (DPS)
- Famous Residents: Jack Nicholson, Indah Kalalo, Antonio Blanco, Michael Klim
Other Things to See & Do in Ubud
#25. The Yoga Barn – one of my favourite restaurants in Bali, I’ve been coming here on both my visits to the island. A rustic and spiritual place set amidst terraced rice paddies, the Yoga Barn is famous not only for its amazing, organic vegan food, but also for its numerous yoga classes, workshops and Ayurvedic spa treatments, plus it’s a great place to relax.
#26. Gianyar Night Market – some of the best street food in Bali can be found at this traditional Balinese night market, situated in Gianyar town center, near Ubud. Open from 3pm til 11pm, it’s a must-visit spot for a true taste of authentic Balinese street food.
#27. Spa session at Lembah Spa often rated the ‘best spa in Ubud’, the views alone here are absolutely breathtaking. Perched magnificently atop a gorgeous valley with spectacular views overlooking a river gorge, Lembah Spa is considered one of Bali’s most tranquil settings.Don’t forget to book travel insurance
It goes without saying really that when you travel in Asia and beyond, travel insurance is super important.
I never always bothered though. For years I travelled without insurance as I thought, “what could happen?”
Well, I once got my bag stolen in Vietnam and I had an electric shock in a hostel bathroom in Mexico. What if you’re hiking up a mountain and your appendix suddenly bursts, leaving you in excruciating pain and requiring emergency treatment? Anything could happen.
So there you have it – 27 amazing things to do in Ubud, Bali.
Ubud features on many a Bali itinerary and is one of the most popular tourist spots on the island, with tourists continuing to flock here, year after year. That being said, Ubud really does live up to its reputation as a spiritual village with a rich culture and arts scene. Even today with its large presence of tourists, it continues to be a worthwhile place to visit and if you time your trip and daily schedule right, you can do all the above activities without encountering crowds like you’d find in Kuta and Seminyak.
Planning on staying in Ubud?
You can enjoy great accommodation options around Ubud on a budget. For Bali, I highly recommend staying in an authentic homestay, as not only do you get a warm and friendly Balinese stay, it really benefits the locals who make a living from renting out their homes.
If you’re looking for where to stay for couples, families, or solo, whether Ubud hotels or homestays, here’s some of my recommendations:
- Luxury: The Kayon Jungle Resort (villa with private pool) – Exceptional 9.5
- Mid-range: Ayung Resort Ubud (private suite with pool) – Fabulous 8.9
- Mid-range: The Kalyana Ubud Resort (deluxe double or twin with garden view) – Superb 9.1
- Budget: Dekwah Homestay (private en-suite double room) – Superb 9.1
- Budget: Sastra Ubud House (deluxe double room) – Exceptional 9.5
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Ubud FAQs:
Due to Ubud’s centrally located position on Bali it’s an excellent base to explore the numerous activities and places of interest in the surrounding areas, making Ubud the perfect place to stay. Ubud is also uniquely rich in culture and history, packed with traditional arts, museums and dance events, has stunning gardens and rice paddies, and a delicious for scene, making it truly a place like no other in Bali.
To get a taste of Ubud’s unique culture and vibes, spend at least 2 days here at the minimum. However, you need at least 3-4 days to explore the many things to see and do in Ubud, and anything from 7 days upwards gives you plenty of time to truly experience the incredible places and activities in Ubud, as well as allowing for a couple of day trips the north east or north west of Bali.
Here’s my ultimate 3 day Ubud itinerary:
Day 1: walk Campuhan Ridge, explore Ubud markets, practice yoga and have lunch at Yoga Barn, visit Ubud Palace, visit the Sacred Monkey Forest, watch a traditional Kecak dance
Day 2: climb Mount Batur at sunrise (or spend a day at Lempuyang Temple and Tirta Gangga), enjoy a Balinese massage
Day 3: explore Tegallalang rice terraces and Bali Swing, visit Kanto Lampo waterfall
Ubud is the cultural hub of Bali, and you’ll find a wide range of vibrant and enjoyable nightlife activities (such as the Kecak Dance), all of which reflects the melting pot of visitors and locals in this spiritual ‘heart’ of Bali.
Ubud is considered one of the more costlier places in Bali along with Kuta and Seminyak, due to its enormous popularity with tourists. The average price of a 7-day trip to Ubud is $1,775 for a solo traveler, $2,860 for a couple, and $5,780 for a family of four. Ubud homesteads and hotels range from $8 to $220 per night, with an average price of $45, while most vacation rentals will cost between $99-499 per night for entire homes.
Ubud is easy to explore on a budget. The cost of living is fairly low here, as with most of Bali. You can easily travel on a shoestring budget by eating at local warungs (which not only save a ton of money but offer authentic Balinese cuisine), the average meal costs less than $2. You can also find homestays for $8 per night, and hostels will save you even more.
Depending on how long you visit Bali for, for one week I’d recommend bringing at least two hundred dollars (exchanged into Rupiahs) and then use ATMs and cards for other spends. This way you don’t need to carry large wads of cash around on your person, or leave cash in your resort/villa while out during the day.
Ubud Day Trips and Activities:
Ubud Travel Guides
For more in-depth reading about Ubud and Bali, you can get your hands on a copy of these bestsellers below:
Book Your Trip to Bali: Budget Tips & Tricks
Flights: As always, I source the cheapest flights on the web from Skyscanner and Kiwi.com. They are considered the top flight search engines for the best deals.
Accommodation: I use Booking for the best hotel deals and HostelWorld for the cheapest stays. If you’re considering Airbnb, be sure to check Vrbo to find cheaper vacation stays.
SIM cards: DrimSim is a universal SIM card that isn’t tied to an operator and works in any country/region.
Travel Insurance: Stay protected from theft, injury, illness, and cancellations. A safety net in case anything goes wrong, I never leave without it. World Nomads is my favourite agent for total peace of mind.
Tours & Excursions: I book all my fave activities and guided tours on Get Your Guide & Viator – they do superb deals whilst offering excellent customer support.
Renting a car? I always use DiscoverCars, make sure you book your car hire in advance. For airport transfers, I use KiwiTaxi for the best deals.
Need to store your luggage in a locker? Use Radical Storage to store your stuff in a locker in any city for just $5 per day.
Head over to my Travel Tools page for all my best travel tips & advice and everything you need for your trip.
Further Reading: Bali travel
