16 Best Things to Do in Ubud: Discover Bali's Cultural Heart
Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali, known for its lush rice terraces, traditional arts, and spiritual energy. In this guide, you'll discover the best things to do in Ubud, along with insider tips to explore its temples, nature spots, and food scene.
HOW MANY DAYS |
2
to 3
BEST TIME TO VISIT | April to October
WHERE TO STAY |
Sawah Villa
TOP THINGS TO SEE |
Dance Performance, Monkey Forest, Tegalalang Rice Terraces
HOW TO GET AROUND | Gojek, Grab, rental scooter or private driver
Ubud is one of those places that truly lives up to the hype—but knowing where to go and what to avoid can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll share our favorite things to do across Ubud, from must-see spots to honest tips to help you dodge tourist traps, avoid Bali Belly, and make the most of your trip.
✈︎Planning a getaway to Indonesia and wondering where to begin? Start with our Indonesia Travel Essentials—your go-to guide for top destinations, travel costs, packing advice, and itinerary ideas to make your trip a dream.
HOW MANY DAYS FOR UBUD?
Plan 2 to 3 days to experience the main highlights of Ubud. But honestly, Ubud has a way of making you want to stay longer. With so many hidden cafes, yoga classes, art galleries, and quiet corners to explore, it’s the kind of place where a few days can easily turn into a week if you have the time.
WHERE TO STAY IN UBUD?
There’s no shortage of beautiful places to stay in Ubud. Even if you’re right in the middle of town, as soon as you step through the gates of a guesthouse or villa, it feels like a different world — quiet, green, and peaceful. Whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge a little, you’ll find plenty of options that make it easy to slow down.
BUDGET | If you're looking for something central, clean, and affordable, Suntari Homestay is a great pick. The rooms come with AC, the vibe is super friendly, and you’re just a short walk from Ubud’s main spots.
COMFORT | At Sawah Villa you get your own little private villa with a pool and terrace, surrounded by rice fields. Breakfast is included, and it’s only about 10 minutes to the center of Ubud by scooter or car.
RESORT | Kastara Resort takes it up a notch with beautiful suites overlooking the valley or jungle. It’s connected to Ubud via the stunning Campuhan Ridge Walk and has an infinity pool, spa, and an amazing restaurant — pure relaxation.
HOW TO GET TO UBUD?
The easiest way to get from place to place in Bali is via the drive-hailing app Gojek (iOS/Android). You can order scooter rides and different type of cars.
If you’re arriving directly at the airport, we recommend making other arrangements. Bali’s airport can be incredibly chaotic — it’s honestly one of the most overwhelming arrival experiences we've had druing our travels. We tried booking a Gojek from inside the terminal, but as soon as we reached the pick-up area, we were swarmed by people showing us their phones and saying, “Book with me through Gojek or Grab.” None of them wore official uniforms or had proper ID, and the pressure was intense. To avoid the stress and long waiting times, it’s much easier to pre-book a pickup through Get Transfer so you can walk out and go straight to your car.
BOOK | Gettransfer.com - Airport Shuttles
HOW TO GET AROUND UBUD?
Traffic in Ubud, especially around the center, can get pretty heavy. The easiest and quickest way to get around is by scooter — you can easily weave through the cars and get wherever you need to go. If you're not comfortable driving yourself, you can book scooter rides or cars through the apps Gojek or Grab.
If you want to explore the beautiful surroundings of Ubud in a more relaxed way, hiring a driver is a great option. They often know hidden spots you might otherwise miss and can help you create a personalized itinerary.
PRICE | 75k Rp | €4 | US$4 scooter per day
BOOK | GetYourGuide - Hire a Driver
WHEN TO VISIT UBUD?
The best time to visit Ubud is during the dry season, from April to October, when the days are mostly sunny and the humidity is lower. This is the perfect time for exploring rice terraces, hiking to waterfalls, and wandering through town without worrying about sudden downpours. That said, Ubud has a lush, tropical vibe year-round — if you don’t mind a few afternoon showers, the rainy season (November to March) can be a quieter and even more beautiful time to visit, with fewer crowds and green landscapes.
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TOP THINGS TO DO IN UBUD
1. Visit the Ubud Palace
Right in the center of Ubud, this beautiful spot was once the residence of the royal family and is one of the best examples of traditional Balinese architecture. The intricate carvings and the peaceful gardens create a little oasis amid the town’s buzz. You can stroll through the palace grounds for free during the day and take in the peaceful atmosphere, but for a real highlight, make sure to return in the evening for the traditional dance performances.
OPEN | 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
WHERE | Google Maps
2. Watch a Fire Dance Show
One of the most popular shows is the Legong Dance at Ubud Palace, where stories from Balinese mythology come to life through elegant, intricate movements. It's amazing to see how much detail goes into every gesture, especially the delicate handwork that dancers are famous for.
Another incredible experience is the Kecak and Fire Dance, which is held at different venues around Ubud depending on the day of the week. This performance feels a little more intense, telling dramatic tales through hypnotic chanting, storytelling, and fire — all without a single instrument. Just the sound of dozens of voices filling the air creates a really powerful, unforgettable atmosphere.
BOOK | Kecak and Fire Dance Show
3. Enjoy the View of Pura Taman Sarasvati
This beautiful Balinese Hindu temple is dedicated to Dewi Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom, learning, and the arts. The highlight here is the stunning lotus pond and peaceful garden that lead up to the temple entrance. The entrance fee includes traditional Balinese attire, making it a great spot to capture some memorable shots. Alternatively, you can simply admire the view over a coffee at Café Lotus, which sits right next to the temple.
OPEN | 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
PRICE | 100k Rp | €5 | US$5 per person
EAT | Cafe Lotus
4. Find a Souvenir at the Ubud Market
In the early morning, the Ubud Market is a bustling spot where local vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and daily goods. Later in the day, it transforms into a tourist market filled with plenty of colorful souvenir stalls. While many shops sell similar items, it’s worth walking around and asking for different prices — bargaining is part of the experience! Just keep in mind that most souvenirs aren't handmade or even produced in Indonesia, so adjust your expectations accordingly.
5. Watch the Sunset at Campuhan Ridge Walk
This beautiful trail is right in the heart of Ubud and offers stunning views, especially at sunset — no wonder it’s so popular! For a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds, we recommend visiting at sunrise. The trail takes around 30 minutes to walk and is easily accessible from the center, making it a must-do for anyone in Ubud.
WHERE | Google Maps
6. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest
After traveling through Thailand, Sri Lanka, and India, we were a bit unsure about paying the entrance fee here. However, the temples set within the jungle were a pleasant surprise and became one of the highlights of our visit. There are plenty of monkeys around, and while you can get quite close, the real charm lies in the mystic atmosphere, with the temples blending perfectly into the lush jungle. If it's your first time seeing so many monkeys in one place, it’s definitely a fun experience.
TIP | Avoid wearing sunglasses, shiny accessories, or carrying backpacks with exposed items. If you do bring a backpack, make sure everything is zipped up and tucked inside—especially water bottles or anything hanging on the outside. The monkeys are incredibly quick and clever when it comes to grabbing things, opening backpacks, and once they take something, chances are you won’t be getting it back.
SAFETY TIP | Avoid feeding and touching the monkeys—if they bite you, there's a risk of rabies, and the last thing you want is to spend part of your holiday in the hospital.
WHERE | Google Maps
PRICE | 100k Rp | €5 | US$6
7. Awe at the Tegalalang Rice Terraces
The iconic rice terraces of Ubud are a must visit for all vistors. You can either arrive early in the morning or wait until sunset to avoid the heat. Some photo-worthy spots require an entrance fee, so it’s a good idea to bring cash. If you’re interested in photographing the rice field workers, be prepared to offer a small tip. It's easy to lose yourself in the beauty of the area—feel free to explore on your own or hire a guide. There are walking paths, some with signs, making it fairly easy to navigate. You’ll also find plenty of peaceful spots perfect for relaxing and taking in the scenery.
TIP | While the Tegalalang Rice Terraces are spectacular, the Mancingan Rice Terraces offer stunning views with fewer crowds, making it a more peaceful experience.
EAT | Tis Cafe offers delicious food and drinks in a chic setting, complete with a pool and stunning views of the rice terraces.
8. Cleanse at Tirta Empul Water Temple
This temple is dedicate to Vishnu and you will be practicing the Melukat Ceremony, which is a spiritual Balinese Hindu ritual that focuses on cleansing the body, mind, and spirit for spiritual and renewal. The holy waters are from a natural spring with healing properties. It is a truly beautiful experience, though we wondered if it was worth the long waiting lines.
This temple is a popular destination for tourists looking to snap photos, so be prepared for long lines. The complex is big, as can visit the surrounding courtyards. You can plan at least an 1.5 hours for this visit.
Watch out for potential scams—there are on-site photographers and vendors who may pressure you to purchase an offering before entering the water, referring to the written instructions for the bathing ritual. However, you can often find offerings at a lower price from other vendors on your way to the temple.
What to wear for Tirta Empul? We wore swimsuits underneath the sarong. If you own a sarong, you can bring your own and go in with it. Lockers and sarongs are available for rent, and there are gender-specific communal changing rooms, but no showers.
Please follow the instructions at the entrance for the proper bathing ritual — they’re essential to follow for a respectful experience.
Phones and cameras aren’t allowed in the holy water. If you’re solo, ask someone who's finished their ritual to take a photo for you. For couples or groups, you’ll need to take turns, but if the line is long, consider asking your driver, guide, or an on-site photographer for help.
OPEN | 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
PRICE | 75k Rp | €4 | US$4
Looking for a more private cleansing experience?
Treat yourself to an exclusive full-day retreat focused on relaxation and renewal. Begin with a traditional water cleansing ceremony led by a local priest, guiding you through prayer and meditation to clear your mind, body, and soul. Afterward, enjoy a nourishing organic brunch, followed by a 1-hour Balinese massage to release any tension. End the day with a peaceful yoga session, surrounded by the calming sounds of the jungle—perfect for all levels. It’s the ultimate way to refresh and reconnect.
BOOK | Wellness Cleansing Retreat
9. Stretch in a Yoga Class
Ubud is known as the yoga capital of Bali, and for good reason! One of the most popular spots is The Yoga Barn, a well-known sanctuary offering a variety of yoga classes, from Vinyasa to Hatha and everything in between. Beyond yoga, they also offer unique experiences like sound healing, meditation sessions, and live music meditations, providing a holistic approach to wellness. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or a beginner, there’s something for everyone here. Just be sure to arrive early—classes tend to fill up quickly.
CHECK | The Yoga Barn Class Schedule
PRICE | 165k Rp | €9 | US$10 per person
10. Treat Yourself to a Massage
Bali is full of massage parlors, and we love treating ourselves to one every now and then during our travels in Indonesia. A Balinese massage is the perfect way to relax after a day of sightseeing or exploring. Known for its calming strokes, pressure point techniques, and gentle stretches, it's a wonderful way to relieve tension and boost your energy. We always leave feeling refreshed and ready to take on the rest of our trip. If you haven’t yet, definitely give it a try—you’ll feel amazing afterwards!
BOOK | Riverside Spa Treatment
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11. Take a Balinese Cooking Class
Ever wondered how to make Nasi Campur at home? We’re big fans of cooking classes while traveling because it lets us recreate the delicious dishes that remind us of our holidays long after we're back. It’s a fun way to explore new ingredients, learn traditional recipes, and of course, enjoy the food you’ve prepared. This class offers a hands-on experience with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian Balinese classics, plus a dessert to finish.
BOOK | Balinese Cooking Class at an Organic Farm
12. Visit Gunung Kawi Tampaksiring
One of the most beautiful temples we’ve seen in Bali, Pura Gunung Kawi Tampaksiring is truly a highlight of the Ubud area. This 11th-century temple complex is carved into a massive rock face deep within the jungle. The path to the temple takes you down a stone staircase, passing through lush, green rice terraces and vibrant jungle landscapes. The combination of the mystical temple and tropical surroundings creates a setting that’s simply breathtaking.
WHERE | Google Maps
13. Marvel at the Demon of Goa Gajah
Goa Gajah, or the "Elephant Cave," is one of Bali’s most fascinating archaeological sites, dating back to the 11th century. Originally a meditation site for Hindu and Buddhist monks, it reflects Bali’s tradition of religious harmony. The cave entrance, carved with a striking demon face, leads to a small temple housing a statue of Ganesha.
Beyond the cave, you can wander through a lush jungle garden dotted with ancient ruins and moss-covered stones, giving the site a truly mystical feel. Follow the small paths deeper into the forest, and you’ll reach a river where a priest offers blessings for those seeking a more personal spiritual experience.
PRICE | 50k Rp | €2.5 | US$3
WHERE | Google Maps
14. Discover Leke Leke Waterfall
Leke Leke is often called one of Bali’s most beautiful waterfalls — and once you see it, you’ll understand why. After an easy one-hour drive from Ubud, it’s about a 20-minute walk along a jungle path before you reach this picture-perfect spot.
If you imagine a tropical waterfall, it probably looks exactly like this: lush greenery all around, a narrow stream of water plunging into a serene pool. It’s no secret anymore, though — so if you want a more peaceful experience, it’s best to get there early in the morning.
PRICE | 50k Rp | €2.5 | US$3
WHERE | Google Maps
15. Visit the Neka Art Museum
If you want to dive deeper into Bali’s rich art scene, the Neka Art Museum is a must-visit. Founded by Balinese art collector Suteja Neka, the museum takes you on a journey through traditional and modern Balinese art.
The museum feels more like a beautiful Balinese compound than a typical gallery, with different pavilions showcasing everything from classic puppet-style paintings to contemporary works. Highlights include collections by Balinese masters like Lempad and colorful landscapes by Arie Smit.
PRICE | 150k Rp | €8 | US$9
WHERE | Google Maps
16. Take Pictures of theAngels at Taman Dedari
Taman Dedari is a beautiful spot just outside of Ubud, combining art, nature, and culinary experience. The garden restaurant is famous for its huge Hindu-inspired angel statues, some towering up to 10 meters high, all set against the lush backdrop of the Ayung River.
It’s a great place to stroll around, take amazing photos, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. While many come just for the pictures (which is totally fine!), you can also grab a drink or a meal and enjoy the serene setting a little longer.
WHERE TO EAT IN UBUD?
From hidden warungs to trendy cafes, having data on the go helps you read reviews, follow maps, and grab last-minute reservations. We use this eSIM to stay online while exploring Ubud’s food scene.
Our personal favorite for budget travelers is Fair Warung Bale, this restaurant is an NGO, in which your meals help directly the community and you can additionally donate doctor appointments with your bill. Thy serve exceptional traditional Indonesian & Balinese dishes without breaking your bank or giving you a Bali Belly.
OPEN | 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
PRICE | 40k Rp | €2 | US$2
We loved the Sun Sun Warung, it’s a beautiful restaurant with both indoor and outdoor seating, offering the choice between traditional floor cushions or regular tables. The food is absolutely delicious and it is more of a dining experience that highlights the richness of Balinese cuisine.
PRICE | 80k Rp | €3 | US$4
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