Ubud, nestled in the heart of Bali, shines as a cultural gem celebrated for its lush landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and serene ambiance. Situated amidst rice paddies and dense forests, Ubud draws visitors seeking a retreat into Bali’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The town showcases traditional crafts, hosts dance performances, and provides spiritual retreats, offering a vivid glimpse into Balinese traditions and way of life.
Ubud isn’t just another tourist destination; it’s a vibrant centre of culture and creativity. Local artisans meticulously carve stunning designs into wood and stone, while the enchanting melodies of traditional gamelan music resonate through the air.
Elizabeth Gilbert’s “Eat, Pray, Love” totally inspired my trip to Ubud. I was drawn to the idea of self-discovery she described. While I was there, though, I realised something else: Ubud is a super popular honeymoon and romantic destination! The peaceful atmosphere and gorgeous scenery definitely create a perfect couple’s getaway vibe.
Essential Tips
Planning Your Trip:
If you want to see all that Ubud, Bali has to offer, plan to stay for at least 3-4 days. This gives you enough time to visit different places, try out fun activities, and really get to know the island’s culture and natural beauty.
Getting Around:
It’s easy to get around Ubud using apps like Gojek or Grab for rides, or you can rent a scooter. These options are affordable and convenient, so you can explore different places at your own speed.
Money:
Most tourist attractions charge entrance fees. Make sure bring extra cash for these fees, small purchases and local markets. For bigger expenses, most places in Ubud accept credit cards, which makes it easier to pay for things like meals and souvenirs.
Language:
You’ll find that many people in Bali speak English, especially in touristy areas like Ubud. This makes it simple to communicate and ask for directions or recommendations.
Best Season to Visit:
The best time to go to Ubud is from April to October, when it’s dry and not too hot. This means you can enjoy outdoor activities and see the beautiful sights without worrying about rain.
What to Wear:
Because Bali is warm, pack light and loose clothes, and comfy shoes for walking. Remember, when you visit temples, it’s important to dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. This shows respect for their traditions and ensures a smooth visit.
Read More: Bali Travel Tips – Everything You Should Know Before You Go
Where To Stay
Ubud Nyuh Bali Resort & Spa
Ubud Nyuh Bali Resort is located just a short 10–15-minute drive from Ubud’s town centre. With a complimentary shuttle service every two hours to and from Ubud Town Centre, exploring the lively markets, temples, and cultural attractions was convenient and hassle-free. This allowed us to experience Ubud’s vibrant atmosphere while enjoying the resort’s peaceful setting. Ubud Nyuh Bali Resort offered a tranquil and affordable retreat in Ubud, featuring luxurious amenities and convenient access to town.
Ubud Nyuh Bali Resort is an ideal option for a relaxing stay in Ubud, Bali. We opted for this resort because it offers villas with private pools, which are popular among guests seeking privacy and tranquility. As a result, the three main pools at the resort are typically less crowded, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Even though we chose a Suite King Standard Room instead of a villa, we still had nearly exclusive access to these pools.
Booking our stay through Booking.com also allowed us to benefit from a substantial discount, making our experience affordable without compromising on quality. The resort enhances guests’ stays with complimentary wellness and cultural activities, enriching our time in Ubud. See below their schedules.
The Udaya Resort and Spa
The Udaya Resort and Spa is located just a short 7-minute drive from Ubud Town Centre in Bali. During our stay, we opted for a villa that had its own private pool, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and traditional Balinese architecture. They also have complimentary free shuttle service as well same as Ubud Nyuh Bali. However, The Udaya has only one main public pool and it is close to the hotel’s entrance, in addition to its standard rooms. This resort, known for its luxurious design inspired by Bali’s natural beauty, offers comfortable accommodations and excellent amenities, including the renowned Kaveri Spa, Deeva Restaurant, and Vyoma Yoga Hut—all perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
During our four-night stay at this hotel, my partner, Nick, and I opted to enjoy the hotel’s facilities and services for two days without venturing elsewhere. It was a wonderful opportunity for us to relax and spend quality time together. If you want to book this hotel, please click here.
Read More: My Kaveri Spa Experience – Tips & Insights From My Visit
Things To Do
Itinerary Guide
This itinerary packs 3 full days to show you the beautiful places in Ubud, Bali, but remember, your trip is yours to design! Make it fit what you like, how fast you wanna go, and how much you wanna spend.
Heads up: We spent 10 days in Ubud, Bali, however, we weren’t all about being tourists! We spent mornings chilling by the pool at our hotel, getting pampered at the spa, and stuffing ourselves with yummy food. We also explored hidden streets, soaking in the atmosphere and taking pics sometimes. But here’s the thing: we also wanted a digital detox. So, on some adventures, we ditched the camera and just soaked it all in – the culture, the spiritual vibes, the feeling of being totally present without needing to post about it.
Now, let’s jump into my personal 3-day itinerary guide for Ubud adventure, with golden nuggets! Enjoy!
Day 1: Exploring Ubud
Morning (Fuel Up & Scenic Brunch):
- Start with a free breakfast at your hotel. Don’t miss it!
- Start your day by exploring the picturesque Tegallalang aka Ceking Rice terraces. Capture stunning views, take memorable photos, and wander through the lush greenery. Here, you can choose to hike through the rice paddies or enjoy thrilling activities like zip lines and jungle swings. Afterward, head to TIS Cafe for morning tea and snacks to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Midday (Hidden Waterfall & Riverside Lunch):
- Escape to Goa Rang Reng Waterfall for a refreshing break. Relax amidst the lush greenery and natural pools.
- Savour a delightful River Pod lunch at River Warung Restaurant inside Bambu Indah Resort. Enjoy local cuisine in a peaceful atmosphere. Bambu Indah is more than just a restaurant! I must say, this is one of the most unique and beautiful restaurant I have seen. Having a lunch at the River-Pod is the coolest thing, a bamboo nest hanging over the Ayung river, will cost AUD$60 for 2 hours and is for 4 adults or a maximum of 250kg. If you would like to see a video how cool it is, I have posted it on my Instagram reel and you can watch it here. Don’t forget to read the caption too!
- Bambu Indah offers natural pools (day pass fee applies) and scenic bike rentals. You can explore while you wait for your dining reservation. Plus, the day pass fee goes towards your dining bill when you have a reservation. You can visit their website here to know more about their DayPass, services and facilities.
Afternoon (Cultural Gems & Historical Exploration):
- Immerse yourself in history at Taman Ujung, a water palace with beautiful gardens and pools. Learn about Balinese culture through its architecture and artifacts.
- Discover Tirta Gangga, a spiritual retreat with natural springs and serene gardens. Enjoy feeding the fish, walk through its gardens or find a peaceful spot in this calming environment.
Evening (Iconic Gate of Heaven & Sunset):
- Wrap up your day at the Gate of Heaven in Lempuyang Temple. Capture stunning sunset photos with Mount Agung in the background (details and travel time vary). This revered site offers a spiritual conclusion to your adventure.
This one day itinerary already packs a punch, showcasing Ubud’s natural wonders, rich culture, and delicious food. Explore iconic landmarks and hidden gems, ensuring a truly unforgettable day in Ubud!
Read More: The Most Instagrammable Locations in Bali
Day 2: Ubud, Bali – Serenity, Culture, and Culinary Delights
Morning: Indulge in a Serene Breakfast at the hotel
- Breakfast at the hotel
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel, enjoying the serene ambiance and delicious offerings.
Late Morning to Early Afternoon: Discover Cultural Treasures and Bali Swing
- Travel to Sari Timbul
Journey approximately 41 minutes (20 miles) to Sari Timbul from our hotel (The Udaya Resort & Spa).- This unique destination offers a glimpse into the art of glass blowing. Witness skilled artisans transform molten glass into beautiful creations. After purchasing your entrance ticket (approx. 25,000 IDR for locals, 50,000 IDR for international tourists), explore the enchanting Sari Timbul Art Gallery. Feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale with its mystical forest, wood-craft wonders, and captivating atmosphere.
- Visit Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Explore the iconic Hindu temple complex nestled in the jungle, home to playful monkeys.- When it comes to Ubud, Bali, the most popular sanctuary is the Monkey Forest Sanctuary. While it isn’t exactly a sanctuary in the traditional sense, where rescued monkeys are rehabilitated, it is a nature reserve and temple complex that provides a habitat for over 1,260 long-tailed macaques.
- These monkeys are pretty accustomed to tourists, and there are many vendors selling food that you can feed them (though it is best to avoid feeding them processed foods). It’s important to be respectful of the monkeys and their home, and there are signs throughout the park outlining the rules for interacting with the animals. Here are some:
- Maintain a safe distance.
- Do not touch or corner the monkeys.
- Do not feed them human food or drinks.
- Do not handle their babies.
- Be aware of your belongings, as monkeys are known to snatch items.
- Ubud Palace / Puri Saren Agung
Discover the historical Ubud Palace, featuring traditional Balinese architecture and cultural performances.- Nestled in the heart of Ubud, Puri Saren Agung, also known as Ubud Palace, is a must-see for any visitor. This royal palace, still home to the Ubud Royal Family, showcases traditional Balinese architecture and serves as a center for Balinese arts. Be sure to catch a captivating evening performance of traditional dance right in the palace courtyard!
- Ubud Art Market / Pasar Seni Ubud
Explore the vibrant Ubud Art Market, where local artisans showcase their crafts and unique creations.- Ubud Art Market (also known as Pasar Seni Ubud) is a vibrant hub in the center of Ubud. Here you can browse and bargain for an incredible array of handcrafted goods, from intricate wood carvings and batik textiles to beautiful paintings and woven bags. It’s a feast for the senses and a perfect place to immerse yourself in Ubud’s artistic spirit.
- Krisna Oleh-Oleh Souvenir Bali Shopping Centre
- Protip: If you’re planning to buy souvenirs in bulk, head straight to Krisna Oleh-Oleh Souvenir Bali Shopping Centre. They have different branches/locations in Bali. Make sure you visit one of them! They’ve got the best prices around, and they’re non-negotiable because they’re already so affordable. Even though the open street shops and market stalls in Ubud might seem tempting, the prices there are usually double what you’ll find at Krisna. Trust me, it’s worth the trip!
- Bali Swing and Lunch at Ristorante Lereng Agung Restaurant
Indulge in a scenic lunch at Ristorante Lereng Agung Restaurant, known for its panoramic views.- Lereng Agung boasts breathtaking views with a giant swing overlooking rice terraces and Mount Agung. While the scenery steals the show, but I think the food is just okay. It’s a great pitstop for capturing stunning photos and enjoying the swing, but focus on the view rather than the menu.
- If you would like to know the price of the Bali Swing at Lereng Agung Restaurant, I have posted a reel on my Instagram and kindly read the caption here.
- Taman Dedari
Another option, if you don’t want to have lunch at Lereng Agung Restaurant, Taman Dedari also has on-site restaurant. Taman Dedari offers a unique blend of nature and art in Ubud, Bali. Enjoy its serene gardens and peaceful atmosphere. This park features lush gardens, enchanting angel statues, and intricate Balinese design. Immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere while admiring the artistic sculptures and enjoying a delicious meal at their restaurant.
Evening: Dine in Enchanting Ambiance at Merlin’s Magic Restaurant
- Dinner at Merlin’s Magic Restaurant
Conclude your day with dinner at Merlin’s Magic Restaurant in Ubud, Bali, renowned for its enchanting evening ambiance with beautiful lighting. If you would like to see more about Merlin’s Magic Restaurant, I wrote blog post about it here and also posted a reel on my Instagram here.
Our Day 2 in Ubud, Bali ensures our experience a blend of cultural exploration, culinary delights, and serene natural settings during our day in Ubud.
Read More: 4 Unique Restaurants You Must Visit in Bali
Day 3: Ubud, Bali – Nature, Culture, and Relaxation
Morning:
- Fuel up for the day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel
- Immerse yourself in the diverse plant and animal life at the Bali Botanical Garden. Explore a variety of ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to palm gardens, and discover the incredible flora and fauna native to Bali. It opens from 8AM.
- The Bali Botanical Garden, also known as Kebun Raya Bali, is the largest botanical garden in Indonesia. It’s located in the cool mountainous region of Bedugul, central Bali, around 90 minutes drive north of Denpasar. The sprawling garden is a mix of green open space, unique plant collections and tropical mountain forest set against the misty, green slopes of Tapak Hill. Here you can discover Bali’s biggest display of wild orchids, the largest begonia collection in the world, a magical rainforest trail, and enchanting fern garden.
Midday:
- Have an early picnic lunch surrounded by the charming gardens of Rumah Gemuk Bali. This beautiful garden restaurant offers a delightful atmosphere to start your adventures.
- Rumah Gemuk Bali offers a charming prelude to your day trip adventures. It boasts delightful gardens, providing a tranquil setting to savour a delicious lunch before embarking on your exploration. If you would like more information about Rumah Gemuk Bali, I wrote a blog post about it here and I highly suggest to watch my reel on my Instagram here to get the whole picture of how beautiful and stunning this restaurant is! Kindly read the caption too for more info.
Afternoon:
- Journey to the captivating Lake Tamblingan, nestled within a volcanic crater. It only takes 15 minutes drive from Rumah Gemuk Bali. This serene lake offers breathtaking scenery and a unique volcanic landscape. Take a boat ride on the lake or simply relax and soak in the natural beauty.
- Lake Tamblingan is a beautiful crater lake located in the Munduk area of Bali, Indonesia. It’s surrounded by lush green hills and offers stunning views. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities here, such as trekking, cycling, and exploring the nearby temples. The lake is considered sacred by the Balinese people and there are several temples around its perimeter.
Late Afternoon:
- Head to Wanagiri Hidden Hill Bali for a thrilling afternoon, it takes 4 minutes’ drive from Lake Tamblingan. Capture stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and experience their Instagram factory, where you’ll be impressed by the meticulous upkeep and the skilled local operators. Among the attractions are various installations such as a swing (different from famous Bali Swing – they don’t throw you off), a colossal hand, a boat-like structure, a heart-shaped installation, a nest, and many others.
- Instagram-worthy panoramas await at Wanagiri Hidden Hill Bali. This gem north of Ubud stuns visitors with sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape. Wanagiri Hidden Hill Bali also guarantees an exhilarating and picture-perfect adventure.
- FYI! Entrance fees at Wanagiri Hidden Hill can vary, so it’s best to check their latest prices before you go. While estimates suggest it might be around IDR 100,000 to IDR 150,000 per person, it’s always good to be sure. This way, you can avoid any surprises and budget accordingly for your visit.
Evening:
- Return to the hotel for a relaxing final night in Ubud. Unwind by the pool, indulge in a delicious dinner at the resort’s restaurant, or explore the nearby town centre.
And there you have it! This itinerary packs 3 days with the best of Ubud, inspired by my 10-day adventure.Whether you crave excitement, cultural experiences, or just chilling out, Ubud has it all. Pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Ubud! I’d love to hear about your adventures too!
***This blog post may contain links to external websites. If you click through one of these links and make a reservation, it’s possible I might receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. However, my primary goal is to provide you with accurate information and honest review about Ubud, Bali.
Pin Me!
