Bali is simply a dream destination – whether for solo trips, honeymoons, yoga trips, or family travel – the Bali must-sees are definitely a highlight for every traveler.
There is so much to see on this Indonesian island; it can be hard to decide which are the best things to see in Bali. I asked 18 travel bloggers for their absolute Bali highlight. Out of the wonderful answers and our own Bali tips, we have created this Ultimate Bali itinerary – 10 days or more, so you will not miss any of Bali’s breathtaking sights.
But before we dive into this comprehensive Bali travel itinerary, we’ll ensure you are prepared perfectly by adding some practical Bali travel tips and information.
What to find out in this post
- 1 Bali Facts
- 2 Best time to visit Bali
- 3 Where is Bali?
- 4 Bali Travel Cost
- 5 How to get around Bali?
- 6 The Ultimate Bali Itinerary 10 Days to the best places to visit in Bali
- 7 Bali Sightseeing Map
- 8 Day 1 +2 Uluwatu
- 9 Uluwatu Temple
- 10 Karma Beach
- 11 Sundays Beach Club Uluwatu
- 12 Jimbaran Fish Market
- 13 Day 3 Seminyak or Canggu
- 14 Pasut Beach
- 15 Tanah Lot Temple
- 16 Day 4-7 Ubud
- 17 Art Market in Ubud
- 18 Penestanan
- 19 Campuhan Ridge Walk
- 20 Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
- 21 Monkey Forest Ubud
- 22 Goa Gajah Temple
- 23 Tegalalang Rice Terrace
- 24 Mount Batur
- 25 Day 8 Temple Tour
- 26 Pura Lempuyang
- 27 Tirta Gangga
- 28 Day 9 + 10 Lovina & Waterfalls
- 29 Lovina Beach
- 30 Sekumpul Waterfall
- 31 Banyumala Twin Waterfall
- 32 More time? – More things to see in Bali to add to your itinerary
- 33 Tukad Cepung Waterfall
- 34 Pura Tirta Empul
- 35 More time? – Day Trips from Bali
- 36 FAQ about Bali
Bali Facts
- Island with an area of 5,561 km²
- Lies in the Indian Ocean between Java and Lombok
- Belongs to the Small Sunda Islands
- More than 92% of the population belongs to Hinduism.
BALI INFOBOX
Where to stay in Bali: Dekwah Homestay(Family run homestay in the center of Ubud) and Mule Malu Tropical Stay (Sustainable hotel with a pool near the beach in Uluwatu)
The most popular activities and tours in Bali
Ubud Monkey Forest, Rice Terrasses, and Tanah Lot Tour
Manta- Snorkeling Tour in Nusa Penida – From Bali
Ayung River Wildwater Rafting Tour
How to get there: Check and compare flights on sites like . You can check local transport on 12Go Asia
Transport on-site: Bus, Boat, Tours, , or scooter
Need travel insurance? Well insured with one of the world’s most popular travel insurance policies for travelers: WorldNomads
Bali Must-Have: Bali Travel Guide and Travel adapter
Best time to visit Bali
Dry Season
The dry season prevails in Bali from May to October, with June to September being the absolute high season.
Rainy season
The rainy season prevails in Bali from November – April.
Are 10 Days enough in Bali?
To be honest, you need to spend at least several months discovering all the stunning places Bali offers. But I believe that 10 days is enough time to explore the highlights of Bali and get a first glimpse of the culture of this wonderful little island.
Where is Bali?
Bali is one of the many islands of Indonesia. The island is located in the Indian Ocean, east of one of the main islands of Indonesia, Java.
Bali Travel Cost
Before you start traveling, you will surely want to know what costs you will have to pay for your Bali trip. Of course, we can not calculate your exact travel costs for Bali because the costs adapt to your travel style and your accommodations choice.
But let’s assume the average cost of a Bali trip. The average traveler spends about 55 €/$ 65 per day during the trip. For a ten-day trip to Bali, we can therefore expect to pay about € 550/$ 650 per person.
To this must be added the cost of a flight. The average return flight from Central Europe costs between 550 – 750 €. This brings us to the average travel costs of about 1,200 € for two weeks in Bali for travelers from Central Europe. If you travel from the US, your flight will likely be around $ 850. This brings us to a total of $ 1,230 for two weeks.
On the other hand, those who travel as backpackers spend on average just under 20 €/$ 25 per day. This way, you can reduce your travel costs for two weeks in Bali to about 200 €/$ 250 for two weeks + the price of your flight.
Update: While updating the entrance fees, I realized that some had more than doubled since initially publishing this itinerary. Hence, you might have to pay a little bit more than this when visiting Bali. But don’t worry, the prices are still very affordable if you visit from Western countries.
How to get around Bali?
By Taxi or Private Driver
The easiest and most comfortable way to get around Bali is by Taxi or Private driver. You can just stop one of the taxis driving around or book a driver beforehand. You can also use Grab or Go-Jek, which are both Apps working the same as Uber.
Bali Top Tip: Definitely check the prices beforehand and only pay what the trip is actually worth. Many taxi drivers overcharge foreigners.
By Scooter
We loved driving around Bali by scooter. It’s usually way cheaper than a taxi and makes you more flexible. But only drive if you feel comfortable doing so, especially during the rainy season.
You can rent a scooter almost everywhere throughout Bali. Just ask in your accommodation.
By Public Transport
There is also public transport available in some parts of Bali. It’s probably the cheapest option but also takes the longest.
Bali Top Tip: Definitely check the prices for tickets beforehand. Tourists are often overcharged. You can book your ticket online on trustworthy sources like 12Go Asia.
The Ultimate Bali Itinerary 10 Days to the best places to visit in Bali
Bali Sightseeing Map
Day 1 +2 Uluwatu
We start our Bali tour in the southwest of the island. From here, we can tick off some of the most fun things to do in Bali off our list.
The name Uluwatu comes from the word Ulu, which means end, and the word Watu, which can be translated as rock.
Uluwatu Temple
Bali inspires many visitors every year to explore many beautiful beaches, temples, and rice terraces. There are many best things to do and see in Bali, and even possible to enjoy many off-the-beaten-path experiences for the first time. How about watching Kecak & Fire Dance at Uluwatu Sea Temple? Yes, during your trip to Bali Island, this traditional dance performance will get you to know much more about Balinese culture.
During the sunset hour, this unique fire dance show is held every day at the temple premises. Many local Balinese artists performed Kecak dance without any musical instruments. They play the ancient epic story of Ramayana through dance. The whole environment became so dramatic just before the sunset. So, at the same time, you can also watch the stunning sunset.
Try to get to the place as early as possible to confirm the entrance ticket; otherwise, it is tough to manage a seat, and the crowd is enormous.
How to get there
The Uluwatu Temple is located in South Bali and is surrounded by the most stunning Indian Ocean. It is just 22 km away from Kuta.
Opening Hours Uluwatu Temple: 07 am – 07 pm
Entrance Fee Uluwatu Temple: IDR 30.000 (ca. 1,80 €)
Tour to Uluwatu Temple: Book a tour on-site or check these great tours on GetYourGuide
Recommended by Nafisa Habib from My Own Way to Travel.
Karma Beach
Bali has many beautiful beaches, and you do not need to end up at packed and super touristy Kuta Beach. We spent some time on the scooter and searched for nice and relaxed beaches, and to our surprise, we found a few which are (still) not that well known. One of them is Karma Beach.
For us, it belongs to one of the most beautiful beaches in Bali. Why? The beach is a long stretch of white powdery sand and surrounded by terrific rocks. The Caribbean turquoise waters and relaxed atmosphere will make you stay forever. Because of the rocks, you will find plenty of free shade.
Just make sure to bring enough water and food, as there is luckily not much around, just the beautiful sea with the view of rocks and trees. Make sure to check the tides before you go. During high tide, you might not be able to access all of the beaches.
How to get there
Karma Beach is located in Jimbaran in the very south of Bali. Take the road JJ Karma Kandara and drive all the way until you reach the temple Pura Masuka. When you arrive, you can park your scooter at the parking lot (parking fee 5.000 Rp) and then simply pass the temple on the left and walk down the stairs.
You can climb down to reach the sand. Make sure to go during low tide; otherwise, you might get wet. Once you are down, try to keep to the left.
Recommended by Gigi & Nico from beach addicted
Sundays Beach Club Uluwatu
Sundays beach is a gorgeous spot to sit back and relax while enjoying delicious food and cocktails. If you like keeping active, they have a range of snorkels, stand-up paddleboards, and kayaks. Do the beach hawkers put you off enjoying the beaches of Bali? If they do, this is the perfect spot; the beach is private, so no hawkers constantly ask you to buy things.
Once you arrive at the gorgeous lobby, the staff will direct you to the inclinator down to the beach. Here you will purchase your pass for the day and collect a towel to use. It is a fun trip down the inclinator but be sure to get there early to reserve a bean bag on the sand as it is a first-come, first-serve basis.
If you hang around until sunset, you will experience their nightly sunset beach bonfire and, on the weekends, enjoy the nightly live music. A day out at Sundays Beach Club is a great way to spend time with family or friends.
How to get there
Located on the most southern point of Bali, it is a 30-minute drive from Denpasar Airport. To find this amazing beach club, ask a driver to take you to the Ungasan Resort.
Opening Hours Sunday Beach Club Uluwatu: 10 -am – 08 pm
Entrance Fee Sunday Beach Club Uluwatu: IDR 450.000 (ca. $ 30) (Entrance Fee includes IDR 250.000 (ca. $ 17) Food Credit)
Tickets: Reise entweder selbst an oder nimm an dieser Tour teil
Recommended by Kate from Rolling along with Kids.
Jimbaran Fish Market
Referred to by the locals as “Pasar Ikan Kedonganan,” the Jimbaran fish market is a covered market just off the beach’s shores at Kedonganan. Buzzing with fishermen bringing in their catch of the day, it doesn’t get any fresher. What stands out most to me is the impressive variety of different types of sea life, including endless species of fish, crabs, clams, lobsters, and even squid!
Set against a backdrop of the beautiful sea lined with strikingly colorful boats, it is truly an incredible sight.
How to get there
Less than a 15-minute drive south of the Ngurah Rai International Airport, the Jimbaran Fishmarket is an easy find. Catch the main bypass Ngurah Rai South, then a right where it meets Toyaning.
Next, a left for a short stretch on Raya Uluwatu and a quick right onto Pasir Putih. This meets up with Pantai Kedonganan. From here, head north until you hit the market.
Opening Hours Jimbaran Fish Market: 04 am – 09 pm
Entrance Fee Jimbaran Fish Market: free of charge
Recommended by Kaila from NomList.
Day 3 Seminyak or Canggu
Seminyak was once a separate community, but today it is a suburb of Kuta. Seminyak is considered the most expensive area in Bali. So if you are traveling on a smaller budget, you can visit the following attractions as Bali excursions from Canggu.
Pasut Beach
While some of Bali’s beaches seem rather disappointing for tourists due to the crowds, Pasut beach is still a true hidden gem and one of the less discovered parts of the island. Therefore, it’s certainly been a big highlight of my backpacking journey around Bali.
The black-sand beach is vast with flat water, making it difficult to swim but perfect for a long stroll along the beach. While there aren’t any big hotels and resorts along the beach (yet!), I spotted one hotel, which is a good place to grab a drink or a snack since there isn’t much infrastructure around.
When I arrived at Pasut, I had the beach basically all to myself for the afternoon until a few locals showed up to watch the sunset. While some other places around Bali were very overcrowded and therefore pretty disappointing for me, I really enjoyed Pasut and can undoubtedly recommend visiting.
How to get there
Pasut is located about an hour up the coast from Seminyak and Canggu and is best reached on a day trip by scooter.
Recommended by Patrick from German Backpacker.
Tanah Lot Temple
There are many iconic places on the romantic island of Bali. Still, if there is one that epitomizes perfectly the colorful mixture of beauty, adventure, and myths that Bali is, it’s Tanah Lot.
Translating as “Land in The Sea,” Pura Tanah Lot is a 500 years old Hinduist temple situated on a tiny rock island, right next to the Beraban village. The legend has it that a high priest with a long name (Dang Hyang Nirartha) came to the village to spread Hinduism. The village chief got angry with him and tried to chase him away. The priest, trying to show the mightiness of his religion, shifted the rock he was meditating on and moved it into the sea. Afterward, he transformed his sashes into poisonous snakes who guard the temple to this day.
With the infinite ocean in the background and the crashing waves below, Tanah Lot is one of the most photogenic places in Bali. Since it’s located only 30km from Denpasar, it’s a top-rated tourist attraction, so try to avoid it during weekends and local holidays.
The best times to visit the temple would be either early in the morning when you’d have the place for yourself, or at sunset, when you can enjoy Tanah Lot’s beauty to the fullest!
How to get there
Like everything in Bali, a scooter is the best way to reach it.
Opening Hours Tanah Lot Temple: 07 am – 05 pm
Entrance Fee Tanah Lot Temple: IDR 60.000 (ca. $ 4)
Tours to Tanah Lot Temple: Check more information about the tour here
Recommended by Verislav from Global Castaway.
Day 4-7 Ubud
No Bali trip is complete without a stay in Ubud. The small town is considered the cultural center of Bali. With its arts and crafts, traditional dance events, and relaxed atmosphere, Ubud captivated us from the very first moment. Although this tends to be one of the most touristy places on the island, a visit is worthwhile despite everything.
If you have more time, you can also spend a day here relaxing with yoga or a traditional massage, getting to know the culture and temples of the small town, or simply enjoying the great food of Bali.
Ubud Travel Tip: Instead of eating international food in the typical tourist restaurants, we definitely recommend you try one of the typical Balinese food corners (warungs).
Art Market in Ubud
The Ubud Art Market is one of my favorite places in Bali. It is locally known as Pasar Seni Ubud, and it’s located opposite the Royal Ubud Palace. If you’re staying in the center of Ubud, the Ubud Art Market is just within walking distance.
This market features local products. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs, whether it’s traditional batik, clothes, bags, and accessories, as well as jewelry. You can also shop for home decorations such as paintings, carvings, and furniture.
The great thing about the Ubud Art Market is that it gives you a taste of Bali’s culture, and its products are made not just in Ubud but in neighboring towns as well. You will see & appreciate unique art and handicrafts that you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. I particularly liked the quilts, and my boyfriend liked the chess set with carved pieces based on Hindu mythology.
How to get there
The Ubud Art Market can be found at Jalan Raya Ubud No. 35.
Opening Hours Ubud Art Market: 06 am – 06 pm
Entrance Fee Ubud Art Market: free of charge
Recommended by Katherine from Tara Lets Anywhere.
Penestanan
I’m tempted to keep this information all to myself, tempted not to share my love for this magnificent and pristine place, concerned that by doing so, it may also succumb to tourist troves as its neighboring borough, Ubud, as in the last years. Evidently, the artistic flair and gypsy vibe still reign strong in the cultural mecca of Bali. Still, to find the peace and tranquility which was once emblematic of it, you now need to look on the outskirts of town, to the magical area of Penestanan.
Here, you’ll find beautiful winding pedestrian lanes lined with overgrown and lush vegetation leading to cute Warungs, boutiques, or yoga studios. You will also find a selection of fabulous eateries ranging from the local BBQ to plant-based elite restaurants, all set within a tranquil and paradise-like setting. The best part of Penestanan has to be its surrounding fields of rice paddies, a wonderful sight to wake up to.
How to get there
Its location, an easy walk or scooter ride away, just 3 km from the main hub of Ubud, makes it an incredible base for visiting the surrounding region. Go see for yourself; I’m convinced you’ll also be tempted to keep it a secret.
Recommended by Nathalie from Marquestra.
Campuhan Ridge Walk
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is one of the best ways to see the natural Bali and is a scenic walk through rice fields, small villages, and lush jungle that starts in Ubud. The walk is free and takes about two hours of return, although best to set up in the early hours or late afternoon due to the heat.
I love the walk for the views of the stunning rice fields that Bali is famous for, along with the green Balinese jungle, as well as just people watching. Bring along water and your camera, as there are lots of places along the walk that are perfect for photography. The Karsa Café is a great place to stop for lunch or a coffee, and it’s also where most people turn around to head back to Ubud. Karsa is a serene and beautiful spot, offering outdoor seating among lily ponds and rice terraces.
How to get there
The start of the walk can be found near the Warwick IBAH Hotel in Ubud, or ask at your guesthouse for directions- the walk is popular and well-known.
Opening Hours Campuhan Ridge Walk: 24 hrs
Entrance Fee Campuhan Ridge Walk: free of charge
Recommended by Katie from the Accidental Australian.
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
The rice terraces in Bali are more than just scenic. They are also spiritual. For farmers here, there is a connection between their crops and their gods, and the layout of their fields reflects that.
To see this for yourself, the best collection of rice fields to visit are the ones at Jatiluwih, where more than 500 farmers take care of more than 600 hectares. The cascading system of terraces is built into a hillside, and the water is moved around the area through a sophisticated ancient irrigation system invented here in the 9th century!
Before then, water arrives at the rice fields, it is blessed at a nearby temple called Pura Luhur Batukaru. It’s an important part of the Balinese farming system that incorporates religion and is worth visiting as part of a trip to Jatiluwih.
Pura Luhur Batukaru is one of Bali’s most sacred Hindu temples and one of the island’s nine directional temples. It was originally built in the 11th century, but most of what you’ll see was actually rebuilt in the mid-1900s.
How to get there
The rice fields and the temple are about 50 kilometers from the main beach areas of Bali. If you drive yourself, it will take at least 90 minutes (because of traffic). There are tours that go here, and they could be an easier option.
Opening Hours Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: 08 am – 05 pm
Entrance Fee Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: IDR 40.000 (ca. $ 2.50)
Tour to Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: Check more info about the tour here
Recommended by Turtle from The Traveling Turtle.
Monkey Forest Ubud
Balinese wildlife is everywhere you go. One of our favorite places is the famous Monkey Forest, right in the heart of Ubud, in the village of Padangtegal.
The place is unique, dedicated to the monkeys, a relaxing and unbelievable experience, where you can get in contact with nature and watch animals in their natural habitat. You can see around 700 monkeys but also 186 species of trees and temples.
The Monkey Forest was created under the concept of the Hindu philosophy of Tri Hita Karana. In this, “Tri” means three, “Hita” means happiness, and “Karana” means cause. The main goal of this ideology is to maintain a balance in life.
This isn’t just another tourist attraction, but an essential place for nature preservation and animal protection, and significant for the spiritual and economic life of the community.
Sometimes we heard people talking about being attacked by monkeys. But, all the time we spend there, we never felt insecure. Be conscious about it, if you are going to take cameras and other equipment, make sure you secure them. The same for bags; we had ours always locked.
Be careful with food; actually, you don’t even need to bring food here. Monkeys are curious animals; if they see food, of course, they will bother you. One common-sense thing, keep your distance and enjoy your time here.
Another good thing is, at the entrance they gave us a paper with the history of the Monkey Forest and some rules. You must follow the rules, and everything is going to be alright. Remember, this is their place, monkey place, not yours.
Opening Hours Ubud Monkey Forest: 08.30 am – 06 pm
Entrance Fee Ubud Monkey Forest: IDR 80.000 (ca. $ 5.50)
Tour to Monkey Forest: Click here for more information about the tour
Recommended by Sandrina from The Wise Travellers.
Goa Gajah Temple
Just minutes from central Ubud, the Goa Gajah Temple (Elephant Cave Temple) is a wonder to behold. A significant archaeological site, as well as a popular tourist attraction, this temple dates back to the 11th century. It is built upon a hillside, considered sacred by those who built it.
This dreamy destination boasts stunning elephant carvings and sculptures, a magical meditation cave, beautiful bathing pools, and a lush green jungle area with captivating sacred trees and breathtaking views. After visiting the Goa Gajah Temple, you’ll no doubt want to come back again and again! This place is definitely a must-see site in Bali.
How to get there
You can get to the Goa Gajah Temple by going on a tour, by taxi, or by your own motorbike. Also, don’t forget these must-pack items for Bali!
Opening Hours Goa Gajah Temple: 08 am – 06 pm
Entrance Fee Goa Gajah Temple: IDR 50.000 (ca. $ 3)
Tour to Goa Gajah Temple: Check the tours on GetYourGuide.
Recommended by Sophie from the Wanderful Me.
Tegalalang Rice Terrace
“I don’t want to go to Bali,” – said nobody, EVER! Bali is just amazing! There is always a good excuse to go back to the island of the Gods and recharge your battery with its incredible energy.
Among the best things to do while on the island, the Tegalalang rice terrace in Ubud represents by far one of the most iconic landscapes of Bali. Imagine a large, lush, green stretch of land that takes you straight into the heart of the beauty of Southeast Asia.
Get ready to walk for kilometers across villages and temples, where you can dive yourself into the daily Balinese lifestyle, which managed to keep its authenticity far from the curious eyes of tourists.
Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes – there is plenty of mud if it’s a rainy day – and bring some extra batteries for your camera, you won’t stop taking pictures!
How to get there
If you are a brave scooter driver, just ask for directions from some locals when you are in the main street of Ubud. Otherwise, you can easily ask some local taxi guy to take you to the Tegalalang rice terrace.
Opening Hours Tegalalang Rice Terrace: 08 am – 06 pm
Entrance Fee Tegalalang Rice Terrace: IDR 15.000 (ca. $ 1)
Tours to Tegalalang Rice Terrace: Book on-site or check the different tour offers on GetYourGuide
Recommended by Cristina from The Lazy Trotter.
Mount Batur
Mount Batur is a highlight of many travelers’ itineraries in Bali. It’s only really safe and feasible to visit by tour; the nearest and most convenient place to leave from is Ubud. Most people hike Mount Batur by night to witness the spectacular sunrise from the top of the volcano.
The hike is a bit challenging but not too difficult. Its summit sits at 1,717 meters above sea level – quite impressive for a small island like Bali! You’ll notice it gets cooler and cooler as you ascend – and waiting for the sun to come up can be quite a chilly affair.
But it’s all worth it when the sun rises. You’ll be able to see for kilometers across all the towns and villages that are nestled at the base of the volcano. It’s a really spectacular vantage point to welcome in a new day. Make sure that you watch out for monkeys – there are quite a lot of them at the top of the volcano, and they will not be shy about stealing your possessions!
If you’re planning on doing the Mount Batur hike, be sure to add warmer clothes (you’ll be freezing in shorts) and a good-quality torch to your Bali packing list. Also, remember plenty of water and snacks – although the tour will provide some food.
Opening Hours Mt. Batur: 24 hrs
Entrance Fee Mt. Batur: free of charge
Visit Mt. Batur with a tour: On-site or book online via GetYourGuide
Recommended by Claire from Claire’s Footsteps.
Day 8 Temple Tour
Pura Lempuyang
If you love visiting temples, add Pura Lempuyang to the list. It’s one of the oldest Hindu temples in Bali.
All visitors must wear a sarong to enter the temple, and you can rent one at the entrance gate. When you arrive, you’ll notice the line at the first and most popular gate, also known as the “Gateway to Heaven.” It’s an iconic spot to take photos, and hopefully, it’s a clear day to see Mount Agung through the gates. Come up with any creative poses, but no kissing or yoga poses are allowed (per the rules of the temple).
If you have extra time, consider visiting the other six temples in the complex. It’s a peaceful journey and will take over 3 hours to visit all the gates. Stair climbing is involved (over 1440+ stairs), so you’ll get a good leg workout.
Along the way up, see locals bringing fruits and food to the various temples for prayers. Pura Lempuyang is a good place to visit if you want to escape from the main areas of Bali.
How to get there
Located in Mount Lempuyang in East Bali, the only way to get here is by renting a scooter or hiring a driver.
Opening Hours Lempuyang Temple: 07 am – 05 pm
Entrance Fee Lempuyang Temple : IDR 100.000 (ca. $ 6.50)
Tours to Lempuyang Temple: Book in travel agencies on-site or online via GetYourGuide
Recommended by Jackie & Justin from Life of Doing.
Tirta Gangga
The Tirta Gangga Temple is unlike any other temple I have ever seen. This unique water palace temple is located in the eastern part of Bali. The name Tirta Gangga can be translated as “water from the Ganges” and is a respected place for Hindus.
The water that fills the various basins and fountains comes from sacred springs located above the Water Palace. But the best thing about this place is that you can actually swim in the pools of Tirta Gangga. How cool is that!? You can even rent a floaty.
The water can be a bit cold, but it is a lovely refreshment on a hot day in Bali.
Although locals tend to bathe in full clothing, tourists are perfectly alright to go into the water with their usual swimwear.
Tirta Gangga is full of great architecture and fountains. In addition to a swim, it is worthwhile to have a look around the temple grounds before or after your bath. You can even see a lot of koi in the fountains and ponds.
Thus, don’t forget your towel when visiting the Tirta Gangga temple in Bali!
How to get there
From Ubud, you can either take a taxi (the trip takes about 2 hours) or, if you feel like it, go with a rented scooter.
Opening HoursTirta Gangga: 08 am – 05 pm
Entrance Fee Tirta Gangga: IDR 50.000 (ca. $ 3.50)
Tours to Tirta Gangga Temple: You can book your tour on-site or online here in advance
Day 9 + 10 Lovina & Waterfalls
Lovina Beach
While most visitors neglect North Bali in favor of the South, we knew the South was not for us. It was overrun with crowds of tourists and vendors pushing their sales. North, on the other hand, was calmer and more pristine. Keep in mind that exploring the north does require more travel time, but it’s absolutely worth it.
Way up north lies the quiet beach of Lovina in the Kalibukbuk area. It is actually made up of small patches of beaches that span over two districts of Buleleng. The sand, unlike in the South, is slightly blackish. There are parts of Lovina beach that are frequented by people thanks to its abundant marine life. Dolphin watching, snorkeling, and diving are some of the activities available here.
Tour operators have not explored some parts of the beach. We chose to stay in a beachside villa near the quieter end of the beach, and we cannot stress enough how lovely it was! We felt like we were on a second honeymoon. Along with the beach, you can also visit the nearby attractions like the GitGit waterfall, Banjar hot springs, and the Vihara Buddha.
Tour to Lovina Beach: You can check Tour info by clicking here
Recommended by Shruti from Siddharth and Shruti.
Sekumpul Waterfall
No trip to Bali is complete without seeing one of the hundreds of stunning waterfalls. But one stands above the rest, not only for its epic setting but the adventure it takes to even get there. Located north of Munduk, getting to Sekumpul is easiest if you have your own wheels. The scenery is gorgeous and best seen when whizzing past on a motorcycle.
You’ll ride up and down incredibly steep roads through remote rural villages for nearly an hour before stumbling on the spot to start your walk. From here, you’ll need to walk along rural tracks for around 20 minutes before you get your first glimpse of this stunning waterfall.
Sekumpul feels like a scene from Jurassic Park, a waterfall that looks as tall as a skyscraper surrounded by cliffs covered in jungle. The first lookout point is spectacular and the best place to get a birds-eye shot of the falls. Then you’ll start the gradual descent to the foot of the falls, where you can take a dip if you want and soak up just how small you are within this huge landscape.
How to get there
The best thing about it is that few people go here because it’s a lot harder to get to than the likes of Kanto Lampo, Tukad Cepung, and Tibumana falls, all of which are much closer to Ubud. It takes about an hour to get to the start of the walk from Munduk or a bit longer if you miss the turning like us, and then another 30 – 40 minutes for the walk. This just makes it even better as the best places are always the ones you have to work a little harder to get to.
Tours to Sekumpul Waterfall: Click here for tour info.
Recommended by Cat from Walk my World.
Banyumala Twin Waterfall
A brilliant off-the-beaten-path spot to add to your itinerary of Bali is the Banyumala twin waterfall. Located around 12 kilometers from Munduk, the Banyumala waterfall is a peaceful escape as it’s currently free from tourist crowds. This is largely down to the poor condition of the unpaved road leading to the waterfall.
Although the road is relatively safe to visit by car, it’s risky on a scooter/bike – even for experienced riders! That being said, for those willing to make the journey, it’s a truly beautiful sight.
From the car park, the walk down to the falls is relatively straightforward, although it is slightly steep at times. As the name suggests, Banyumala is home to 2 beautiful waterfalls side by side. Once you reach the falls, you’re likely to have this incredible place all to yourself.
Take the time to enjoy the magnificent natural beauty of the place before heading for a swim in the plunge pool to cool off from the Bali heat! It’s hard to find any other place in Bali this stunning that isn’t packed with tourists, which makes it a truly wonderful spot to visit!
How to get there
Banyumala twin waterfall is the easiest to reach from either Lovina or Munduk. If you opt to travel by taxi, it’s a good idea to include it as part of a day trip around North Bali to get the best value for your money. Either way, you won’t regret adding this beautiful spot to your itinerary!
Tours to Banyumala Waterfall: Click here for more information about tours.
Recommended by Sam & Natalia from Something Off Freedom.
More time? – More things to see in Bali to add to your itinerary
Tukad Cepung Waterfall
When you think of idyllic photo motifs and fairytale landscapes in Bali, you should definitely not miss the Tukad Cepung waterfall in Bali. Although there are already some tours that go to this waterfall, it is still considered one of the more unknown sights of Bali.
Even though the waterfall itself probably won’t blow you away compared to other waterfalls on the island, the landscape makes a visit something exceptional. Surrounded by high cliffs and picture-perfect nature, the waterfall is even called the most beautiful photo backdrop on the island by some visitors to Bali. Especially when the sun stands at the right angle so that it falls through the rock formations, the result is a simply gorgeous picture.
How to get there
To reach the waterfall, you can either ride a rented scooter or hire a taxi (it may be worth combining the visit as a half-day tour with Pura Tirta Empul or Tegalalang Rice Terraces) or join a tour that includes a visit to the waterfall.
Opening Hours Tukad Cepung : 24 hrs
Entrance Fee Tukad Cepung: 15.000 IDR (ca. $ 0,90)
Pura Tirta Empul
One of the most magical places in Bali is clearly the Pura Tirta Empul, also called the Water Temple of Bali. The water temple is considered one of the most essential and spiritual temple complexes on the whole island and is therefore always well visited. Inside the temple, you will find three water basins with various water fountains.
The spring water from the fountains is considered sacred in the Hindu faith. For this reason, pilgrims, believers, and tourists come here every day to cleanse themselves with the water. Believers use a specific purification procedure to free themselves from evil thoughts, misfortune, diseases, and problems.
Fun Fact: By the way, the name Tirta Empul stands for “bubbling spring.”
How to get there
If you are a skilled scooter rider, just ask locals for directions when you are on the main road of Ubud. Otherwise, you can just ask a taxi driver to take you to the temple. The popular Tegalalang rice terraces are located not far from Pura Tirta Empul.
Opening Hours Tirta Empul: 08 am – 06 pm
Entrance Fee Tirta Empul: 50.000 IDR (ca. $ 3)
More time? – Day Trips from Bali
Nusa Penida
If you have an extra day or two to spare, you should definitely also plan a (day) trip to Nusa Penida. This wonderful island is less than an hour’s drive from Bali and can, therefore, be ideally visited on a day trip from Bali.
The small island is a real paradise and a perfect destination for keen swimmers and sun lovers. Besides breathtaking beaches and great snorkeling opportunities, traditional sights like the Goa Giri Putri cave and wonderful nature and waterfalls are waiting for you.
How to get there
Several speedboats run daily between the port of Sanur, Bali, and Nusa Penida. The crossing takes about 45 minutes each way.
Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan
Similar to Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan offer beautiful beaches, such as Dream Beach, and breathtaking landscapes. The two islands, connected by a small bridge, are especially popular for diving and snorkeling adventures. There is plenty of exciting underwater life waiting for you in the clear warm water, especially if you are there during the manta ray season.
How to get there
Several speedboats run daily between the port of Sanur, Bali, and Nusa Lembongan. The crossing takes about 30 minutes each way.
FAQ about Bali
Bali just has this unique atmosphere, tropical climate, super lovely locals, extraordinary culture and architecture, and great food. There are also beautiful beaches and fascinating nature.
As many days as possible, you could spend a month on the island and still not have seen all of the wonderful places. We recommend staying in Bali for at least 5 days. In our opinion, 10-14 days in Bali are ideal to get an overall impression.
Bali is an island in the island state of Indonesia in Southeast Asia.
That is hard to say. Every place has something unique. Of course, it all depends on your interests. However, if you follow this Bali itinerary, you will get a good overall impression of this fantastic island.
This question is also impossible to answer. It all depends on your interests and preferences. If you are looking for quiet beaches, the north is probably the right place for you. If you are looking for party, the south probably fits you better.
In Bali, sockets of types C and F are used. If you are traveling from the UK or the US, you will need a travel adapter. If you come from Central Europe, you don’t need a travel adapter for Bali.
Bali is about 5,780 km².
Compared to other tropical travel destinations, Bali is not expensive. Of course, it always depends on your travel style. You can find an approximate idea of the costs and prices in our Bali Budget Guide.
As in the rest of Indonesia, the Indonesian rupiah is used to pay in Bali. One euro corresponds to around 15k rupiahs, while one USD equals 14.5k Rupiahs (as of 2022).
There are so many great places in Bali. You can find a helpful overview in our Bali Accommodation Guide here.
In itself, Bali is no more dangerous than any other travel destination in Southeast Asia. If you want to find out more about the subject, read our detailed guide to safety in Bali.
It is absolutely possible. There can even be advantages to traveling to Bali during the rainy season: fewer tourists and cheaper prices. Incidentally, the rainy season doesn’t actually mean that it rains every day and always. There are quite a few hours of sunshine in between.
You don’t necessarily need a scooter to tour Bali. You can also visit the individual sights of Bali by taxi, bus, or tour. I only recommend renting a scooter if you are already an experienced driver.
Still a few things here that I still need to do! I feel a third trip to bali coming on 🙂
Hi Cat,
I agree! After reading all those amazing recommendations, I feel like I need to go back as soon as possible! 🙂
WHat a great list of suggestions. We are planning a trip to Bali for next year hopefully. We would love to do the Mount Batur Hike but I don’t think we can do Nightime hiking with a toddler (might have to wait a few years for that) all the waterfalls look incredible though!
Hi Suzy,
Thank you for your comment! Even if you don’t do the hike at night I’m sure you will have an amazing time! 🙂
Bali is absolutely my favorite place in the world. And you have captured all the attractions so beautifully here. Would love to go back there and enjoy some of the things that I have missed. Pinning it for my future travels. Cheers!
Hi Soumya,
Thank you so much for your comment! I can totally see why it’s your favorite place! I also fell in love with Bali! 🙂
Awesome thorough guide! I’ve not been yet but will definitely be looking back over here when I do! So many cool options 🙂 great post!
Hi Becca,
Thank you so much. I hope you get the chance to go. Bali is amazing! 🙂
I really like the way your itinerary is set up and your photos are beautiful!
Hi Elizabeth,
Thank you so much! 🙂