Bali, widely known as the “Island of the Gods,” is Indonesia’s premier tourist destination, attracting millions each year with its stunning beaches, terraced rice paddies, volcanic mountains, vibrant arts scene, and rich spiritual heritage. This tropical paradise offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, cultural immersion, and indulgent cuisine. Whether you’re looking to hike active volcanoes, explore ancient temples, or unwind with spa treatments, Bali is ideal for all types of travelers.
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season: April to October — Best for beach activities, outdoor sightseeing, and hiking. This period features sunny days with low humidity.
Wet Season: November to March — Characterized by occasional heavy rain and higher humidity. However, it’s less crowded and lush green landscapes make it worthwhile if you prefer tranquility.
Transportation Overview
Airport: Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) near Denpasar is Bali’s main airport, handling domestic and international flights.
Airport to Destination: Airport taxis, app-based ride-hailing services (Gojek, Grab), or pre-arranged hotel transfers are commonly used.
Within Bali:
Taxis: Bluebird Group taxis are reliable and metered.
Ride-Hailing Apps: Gojek and Grab offer motorbike and car bookings, usually the cheapest and most convenient way to get around.
Car Rental with Driver: Popular for day trips and excursions; can be booked through hotels or travel agencies.
Scooter/Motorbike Rentals: Popular for independent travelers; requires an international driving permit and caution due to traffic conditions.
Public Transport: Bali does not have metro or train services. Public transport is limited mainly to minibusses (bemos), which tourists rarely use due to complexity.
Day 1: Arrival & Ubud Exploration
Arrival: Ngurah Rai International Airport → Taxi or transfer to Ubud (1.5–2 hrs).
Accommodation: Check-in at a hotel or resort in Ubud.
Activities:
Visit Ubud Monkey Forest.
Explore Ubud Palace and Art Market.
Food:
Lunch: Nasi Campur (mixed rice with vegetables and meat) at Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka.
Dinner: Modern Balinese cuisine at Locavore or Casa Luna.
Night: Optional traditional Balinese dance at Ubud Palace.
Day 2: Rice Terraces & Temples Around Ubud
Activities:
Morning walk through Tegallalang Rice Terraces.
Visit Tirta Empul Holy Water Temple for purification ritual.
Stop at Gunung Kawi Temple.
Food:
Lunch: Ayam Betutu (slow-cooked spicy chicken) or Lawar (traditional salad) at local warung.
Dinner: Sate Lilit (minced seafood satay) or vegetarian options at Café Wayan.
Transport: Hire a driver or use Gojek for day trips.
Day 3: Mount Batur Sunrise Trek & Hot Springs
Early Morning: Depart 2 AM for Mount Batur trek; experience sunrise over volcano and Lake Batur.
Post-trek: Relax in Toya Devasya Hot Springs nearby.
Afternoon: Return to Ubud; visit Campuhan Ridge Walk or Blanco Renaissance Museum.
Food:
Late brunch: Balinese sweet snacks or fresh fruit market near Ubud.
Dinner: Try Bebek Betutu (slow-roasted duck) at Bebek Bengil.
Transport: Pre-arranged driver recommended for early start.
Day 4: Transfer to Seminyak – Beaches & Shopping
Morning: Transfer from Ubud to Seminyak (~1.5 hrs).
Accommodation: Beach resort or boutique hotel in Seminyak.
Activities:
Relax at Seminyak Beach.
Explore boutiques around Seminyak Square.
Food:
Lunch: Fresh seafood or Indonesian fusion at Sea Circus.
Evening: Sunset drinks and dinner at Potato Head Beach Club or Ku De Ta, serving Nasi Goreng and fusion dishes.
Transport: Taxi or private transfer; Gojek available for local trips.
Day 5: Uluwatu Temple & Jimbaran Sunset Seafood
Activities:
Morning visit to Uluwatu Temple (cliffside views).
Afternoon beach time at Padang Padang or Bingin Beach.
Evening Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu during sunset.
Dinner:
Jimbaran Bay beachfront dinner with freshly grilled seafood — lobster, prawns, fish marinated in Balinese spices.
Transport: Car with a driver recommended due to location.
Day 6: Relaxation & Departure
Morning:
Last minute shopping in Seminyak or Kuta markets.
Try Es Campur (shaved ice dessert) or Jajan Pasar (traditional snacks).
Transfer: Taxi or pre-arranged transfer back to Ngurah Rai International Airport for departure.
Sample Food Items to Try in Bali
| Dish Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Babi Guling | Balinese roast suckling pig with spices |
| Nasi Campur | Plate of rice served with an assortment of dishes |
| Bebek Betutu | Slow-cooked spiced duck wrapped in banana leaf |
| Sate Lilit | Minced seafood satay wrapped around lemongrass |
| Lawar | Traditional Balinese side salad made with vegetables and coconut |
| Ayam Betutu | Balinese spiced chicken |
| Nasi Goreng | Indonesian fried rice with egg and meat |
| Mie Goreng | Indonesian fried noodles |
| Es Campur | Refreshing shaved ice dessert with fruits and jelly |
| Jajan Pasar | Traditional Indonesian market snacks and sweets |
Accommodation Recommendations
Ubud (Days 1–3)
Luxury:
Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve — Stunning river valley resort with private villas, spa, and cultural activities.
Alila Ubud — Eco-friendly hillside resort with panoramic jungle views.
Mid-range:
Alam Puri Art Museum Resort & Spa — Beautiful setting with traditional Balinese architecture.
Bisma Eight — Modern boutique hotel close to Ubud Center.
Budget:
Champlung Sari Hotel — Near Monkey Forest with large pool and garden spaces.
Pertiwi Resort & Spa — Cozy with Balinese style, close to main attractions.
Seminyak (Days 4–5)
Luxury:
The Legian Bali — Beachfront resort with elegant suites and impeccable service.
W Bali – Seminyak — Trendy beachfront hotel, vibrant nightlife spot.
Mid-range:
Dash Hotel Seminyak — Contemporary design hotel with pool, central location.
The Colony Hotel Bali — Boutique hotel near the beach.
Budget:
Dash Hotel and similar affordable guesthouses or homestays.
Booking Tips
Flights: Book your international and domestic flights well in advance during the dry season to lock in better prices.
Accommodation: Use platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, or Airbnb. Many hotels offer free cancellation — helpful if plans change.
Transfers: Pre-book airport pick-up or daily drivers through your hotel or trusted agents on TripAdvisor or Bali tour websites (e.g., BaliCab, Mr. Bali Driver).
Mount Batur Trek: Book with a reputable trekking company that includes a guide, transport, equipment, and breakfast (packages usually €40-€60).
Restaurants: Popular venues like Locavore and Bebek Bengil accept reservations, especially during peak times.
Additional Logistics and Tips
Local SIM Card / Internet
Available at the airport or local kiosks — Telkomsel and XL Axiata are reliable. Expect 4G coverage island-wide.
SIM cards cost around IDR 50,000 (~$3.50) with data plans available.
Currency and Payments
Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the local currency.
ATMs widely available in tourist areas; notify your bank before traveling.
Credit cards accepted at big hotels, restaurants, and shops; cash recommended for small vendors and markets.
Health & Safety
Carry sunscreen and insect repellent.
Avoid drinking tap water — use bottled water.
Keep a photocopy of your passport and visa.
Traffic can be chaotic; if renting scooters, always wear a helmet and drive cautiously.
Cultural Etiquette
Dress modestly when visiting temples — sarongs often provided on site or bring your own.
Use your right hand when giving or receiving items.
Respect local customs and religious practices.
Optional Activities to Enhance Your Trip
Snorkeling/Diving: Nusa Lembongan, Padang Bai, or Amed offer fantastic undersea experiences.
Cooking Class: Learn to prepare Balinese dishes in Ubud.
Spa & Wellness: Try a traditional Balinese massage or flower bath at a spa in Ubud or Seminyak.
Day Trips: Consider visiting the scenic waterfalls in Munduk or the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces (UNESCO site).
