Updated in February 2025

How to describe Bali in a few words? Imagine lush vegetation, endless rice terraces, white and black beaches, world-class surfing, ancient culture, countless temples and volcanic mountains. And all of this can be found on one tropical island: Bali. Tell me about any other island that has as much to offer as this paradise island! Tough call.

Bali became so popular because it has something for everyone. You'll find all kinds of travelers there, from the backpackers who travel all across Southeast Asia, the spiritual yogis, luxury travelers, families, divers, surfers...

They all come to Bali, mainly for one reason: It's an excellent value for a good price, and the variety that Bali has to offer is unlike any other tourist destination in the world.

But Bali isn't perfect. The island has been overrun by mass tourism over the past years. The good news is that Bali is a huge island, it takes over three hours to drive from the southern tip to the North. You can still find less touristy spots in Bali and enjoy a laidback lifestyle far away from the crowds.

Let me take you on a virtual trip. If you have no time to read the whole article, give me at least three minutes of your attention and check out our video above. It's all filmed in Bali, made with love and it will give you a good impression of Bali within seconds. You can thank me later... :)

11 Top Things to do in Bali

Still there? Awesome. Let's get into the details! I spent in total six weeks on the island. During my trip to Bali I visited Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Nusa Dua, Uluwatu, Ubud and the island Gili Air (the last one is not part of Bali anymore, but it's easy to reach. More on that later).

Let's talk about activities and sightseeing in Bali, what to see and where to go. Bali is a huge island with an endless list of places to visit and things to do. If you're traveling to Bali for the first time and aren't sure where to start, this list might be helpful.

Without further ado... Here are the best things to do in Bali - I hope you'll include some of them in your Bali itinerary...

1. Get Lost in the Ancient Temples of Bali

Bali, often referred to as the "Island of the Gods," is home to some of the most breathtaking temples in the world, each offering a unique blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty. Believe it or not, but there are thousands of temples in Bali. You don't need to visit all of them, but make sure to explore a few of these peaceful places.

These temples showcase Bali’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and profound spirituality, making them essential stops for any traveler seeking a deeper connection to this magical island.

There is too many to choose from, so I picked for you the six most impressive Bali Temples:

• Tanah Lot: A iconic sea temple perched on a rocky outcrop off Bali's coast. Famous for its stunning sunsets, ocean views, and spiritual significance. Surrounded by crashing waves, it’s one of Bali’s most photographed landmarks.
• Saraswati: Located in Ubud, this temple is dedicated to the goddess of knowledge and art. Known for its beautiful lotus pond, intricate carvings, and serene atmosphere, it’s a peaceful retreat in the heart of the town.
• Lempuyang: Known as the "Gateway to Heaven," this mountain temple offers breathtaking views of Mount Agung. Famous for its split gates and serene ambiance, it’s a challenging but rewarding climb with spiritual significance.
• Besakih: Bali’s largest and holiest temple, located on the slopes of Mount Agung. Known as the "Mother Temple," it features multiple shrines and terraces, offering stunning views and deep cultural importance.
• Ulun Danu Bratan (Water Temple): A picturesque water temple located on the shores of Lake Bratan in the mountains. Dedicated to the water goddess Dewi Danu, it features iconic meru towers and stunning reflections on the lake. Surrounded by cool, misty highland scenery, it’s a serene and photogenic spot.
• Goa Gajah: Also known as the Elephant Cave, this ancient temple near Ubud features a carved cave entrance with intricate demonic faces. Surrounded by lush jungle, it includes meditation caves, bathing pools, and stone relics. A unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences, it’s a peaceful and historically rich site.

Dress modest and cover your knees and shoulders when visiting the sites.

2. Trek a Volcano before Sunrise

There is nothing more magnificent than reaching the top of a volcanic mountain and witnessing the sunrise! If you're in a good shape and physically fit, you should hike one of Bali's volcanoes. You can't get closer to heaven.  

There are four volcanoes in Bali: Mount Agung, Mount Batur, Bratan, and Mount Merbuk. 

I think the most beautiful one is Mount Batur, with breathtaking views over a caldera lake. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking, you may even spot monkeys on the way.

You can reach the top (1.717m) within a 2-hours hike. Keep in mind that all of the Bali volcanoes are active, don't trek without a guide - for your own safety. I recommend these guided tours for Mount Batur:

• Sunrise Mount Batur Hike with Breakfast
• Mount Batur Sunrise Hike and Natural Hot Spring
• Mount Batur Jeep Sunrise with Breakfast & Hot Springs

3. Explore the Endless Rice Terraces of Bali

Bali wouldn't be Bali without the lush rice terraces in all shades of green. Bali’s famous rice terraces are a breathtaking testament to the island’s agricultural heritage and natural beauty. These terraces, carved into the hillsides, showcase the harmonious relationship between humans and nature, shaped by centuries of traditional Subak irrigation systems. A visit to these terraces offers not only stunning views but also a glimpse into Bali’s cultural and spiritual connection to the land.

You can find rice paddies with breathtaking panoramic views all over Bali, most in rural areas around Ubud. The most famous rice terraces are the ones in Tegalalang, a half hour north of Ubud. You can get there through guided tours, which is the safest and most convenient way to visit those stunning sites.

Some of the most scenic rice terraces in Bali include:

• The Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are among the most expansive and picturesque. Located in the highlands, they feature endless green tiers of rice paddies set against the backdrop of Mount Batukaru. The serene atmosphere and cool climate make it a perfect escape from the island’s busier areas.
• The Tegalalang Rice Terraces, near Ubud, are iconic for their dramatic, cascading landscapes. Popular among tourists, they offer opportunities for scenic walks, photo opportunities, and interactions with local farmers. The terraces are also dotted with small cafes where visitors can relax and enjoy the view.
• The rice fields in Sidemen are less crowded and offer a more tranquil experience. Nestled in the shadow of Mount Agung, these terraces provide a peaceful retreat, perfect for hiking or simply soaking in the rural charm of Bali.
  
  

These rice terraces are worth visiting not only for their beauty but also for the chance to experience Bali’s rich agricultural traditions and serene countryside.

If you want to go by your own, I recommend to hire a motorbike and drive yourself to the rice terraces. The ride itself will be amazing. You'll get the most spectacular views during sunset or even better, during sunrise. Come as early as possible to avoid the crowds. 

4. Learn to Surf

When people think about Bali, surfing is one of the main reasons to visit this island. Bali offers world-class surfing opportunities, but it's also one of the most affordable places in the world to learn surfing. The waves in Kuta are perfect for beginners, as they break over soft sand, not corals. 

There are plenty of excellent surf schools along Kuta Beach that offer professional lessons. If you're on a budget, just walk along the beach and you'll meet local guides who are happy to teach you how to surf for a small fee. Advanced surfers should check out Uluwatu, Canggu and Nusa Dua for the perfect wave.

Here are a few surf lessons in Bali that you can book online:

• Kuta/Bali: Private Beginner & Intermediate Surf Lessons
• Legian Beach, Bali: Beginner or Intermediate Surf Lessons
• Canggu: Surfing Lesson
• Uluwatu: Beginner & Intermediate Surf Lesson with Equipment

5. Indulge in Healthy Food in Ubud

You can't leave Bali without visiting Ubud, the spiritual center in the island and the place to get healthy and in shape! Ubud is also the place to do a yoga retreat in Bali, but let's focus on food now because I rather eat than doing yoga poses (no offence to the yoga people. Yoga is awesome!).

Ubud is home to countless amazing restaurants. Without doubt, the best food in Bali can be found there. Indulge in healthy and delicious food in Ubud: vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, raw, organic, macrobiotic - you name it! 

My favorite places to eat in Ubud were Seeds of Life (for raw food), Seniman (for the best coffee in Bali), Warung 9 (super cheap vegetarian buffet), AA Juicery & Cafe (yummy breakfast bowls incl. rice paddies views), Dayu's Warung (gluten-free), Kafe Ubud (great burgers, also vegan options), and Clear Cafe (macrobiotic and raw choices). Enjoy your meals and eat without guilt!

6. Get Close to the Monkeys

That's one of the most adventurous things to do in Bali! Don't miss out on an encounter with these amazing creatures and visit the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud! 

OK, upfront, these cute furry animals can actually get very evil. Keep a safe distance to them and make sure to attach everything properly to your body. Anything that's loose (like sunglasses or a hat) will get stolen by a monkey in no time. The monkeys grab everything they can.

I witnessed a monkey grabbing an iPad and walking with it under its arm away, like a boss. After throwing several bananas at the monkey, it finally released the iPad. Here is another hilarious video of a guy who's GoPro got stolen in Bali by - guess what: a monkey.

By the way, if Ubud is not on your way, you can see plenty of monkeys around the Uluwatu Temple, too.

7. Visit a Traditional Balinese Dance Show

The Balinese people love dance and drama. It's no surprise that you can find ritual shows with dancers in spectacular costumes almost everywhere in Bali, whenever there is a festival celebration. Some travelers might be lucky and stumble into one of these vibrant dance performances during their Bali trip.

One of the most popular performances is the Kecak Dance Show in Uluwatu, including scenic views over the ocean. The male dancers are seated in a circle and do sounds just with their mouths, while the female dancers do an incredible show, using all parts of their bodies, moving their eyes and performing impressive hand gestures. The performance is happening every night at 6PM.

I highly recommend to book this event online as it tends to sell out early. You can book tickets here.

8. Enjoy the Bali Beaches

Ok, let's be completely honest, Bali does not have the greatest beaches in Asia, compared to the Philippine beaches. However, some are worth mentioning. Here is a list of the best beaches in Bali

• Kuta and Legian Beach is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, perfect for surfing and sunsets.
• Seminyak Beach combines luxury with relaxation, featuring upscale resorts and beach clubs.
• Nusa Dua Beach boasts pristine white sand and calm waters, ideal for families.
• Padang Padang Beach, a hidden gem, is surrounded by cliffs and popular among surfers.
• Jimbaran Beach offers a tranquil vibe with fresh seafood dining by the shore.
• For a more secluded experience, visit Bingin Beach or Nyang Nyang Beach, known for their raw, untouched beauty. 
•  Mengiat Beach, located in Nusa Dua, is a tranquil spot with soft sand and clear waters, ideal for swimming.
• Nearby Geger Beach is quieter, with a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling. 

9. Escape to stunning Islands nearby Bali

If you're dreaming of picture perfect white sandy beaches and azure waters, you'd better leave the main island of Bali and hop on a boat to nearby islands. Bali is surrounded by stunning nearby islands, each offering unique experiences. These islands are worth visiting for their unspoiled beauty, world-class diving and snorkeling spots, and the chance to escape Bali’s crowds while enjoying a slower pace of life.

I definitely recommend to go there for a couple of days, but check weather conditions before you go, you don't want to be on the water when it's pouring. The best Islands to visit near Bali are:

• Nusa Lembongan is a small, laid-back island known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and iconic Devil’s Tear cliff with crashing waves. It’s perfect for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on pristine beaches like Dream Beach.
• Nusa Penida, the largest of the Nusa islands, is a paradise for adventurers. Famous for its dramatic cliffs, such as Kelingking Beach (often called the "T-Rex Bay"), and natural wonders like Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach, it’s a haven for hiking, photography, and exploring untouched landscapes.
• The Gili Islands — Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air — are a trio of idyllic islands known for their white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. Geographically, the Gilis are not part of Bali, but still close enough to get there quickly by speedboat (2 hours). Gili Trawangan is the most lively, offering nightlife and water sports, while Gili Meno is the quietest, ideal for honeymooners. Gili Air strikes a balance between relaxation and activity. All three are car-free, with bicycles and horse carts as the main transport, adding to their charm.

10. Shop until you drop 

Bali is a shopping paradise. You'll find anything from fake surf wear and cheap sun glasses to high-end designer label outlets. I have to admit that shopping is usually not one of my favorite things to do. But the bargains and deals you get in Bali are crazy and hard to resist. I bought the cutest dresses for IDR40,000 (~US$3) in the streets of Kuta (Poppies Lane).

You need to bargain hard, though. One day we wanted to buy some board shorts for my boyfriend in one of the tourist shops along Jl. Legian in Kuta. The stallholder quoted us IDR100,000 (~US$7). We showed no interest and when we left, the shop owner yelled at us "take it for IDR10,000 boss!" - Deal.

The best locations for shopping are Jl. Legian and Kuta Square in Kuta, Bali Collection in Nusa Dua and the Monkey Forest Road in Ubud. Happy shopping!

The Samabe Bali Suites & Villas in Nusa Dua

11. Treat Yourself to a Luxury Resort: The Samabe Bali Suites & Villas

Yes, you read that right. These are your dream Bali holidays, so why don't you treat yourself a little bit? I'm not saying you should splurge for 3 weeks in a 5-star villa, but you can start with an extended weekend or a couple days... You deserve it!

I decided to surprise my boyfriend for his birthday and took him to a fabulous resort. We stayed three nights at the gorgeous Samabe Bali Suites & Villas, located in Nusa Dua. This was one of the most extraordinary hotels I have ever stayed in. It was the perfect place to celebrate in style and relax in an amazing environment.

The Samabe offered us a luxury and spacious villa with private pool, our own butler and mesmerizing ocean views to die for. The staff was wonderful and made us feel welcome from the second we arrived.

Our stay at the Samabe was beyond all our expectations - We actually spent a lot of time filming there, watch our video Bali though our eyes, skip to 00:56 and watch until 01:50 to see our favorite footage of this fantastic resort. 

Click here for booking, rates and availability

Photos taken at the Samabe Bali Suites & Villas in Nusa Dua

Bali Hotels - Where to stay

There is an incredible selection of hotels in Bali in all price ranges. The good news is, you can find really good bargains for luxury resorts in Bali.

Is Bali on a budget possible? Absolutely! Try Homestay.com and rent a private room or bungalow from the locals. It's a great way to experience Bali in an authentic way.

During my six weeks in Bali, I stayed at different places, from budget to luxury (see above) - almost all of the places were awesome! Here is a list of my favorite Bali accommodations:

The Grand Mirage Resort & Thalasso Bali in Nusa Dua

The Grand Mirage and Thalassa Bali (Nusa Dua) 

The Grand Mirage Resort in Nusa Dua invited us for four nights to test their hotel and enjoy their facilities. Yep, sometimes I love to be a travel blogger and get to enjoy staying in lovely hotels.

The Grand Mirage is in fact a grand Hotel: it's 22 years old and has more than 300 spacious rooms, almost the size of a suite. The hotel can get very crowded, but we got a beautiful sea view room with breathtaking ocean views that made up for it. The hotel is a great choice for families, too; they have a playground and a large pool with a shallow area, perfect for kids.

It's a beachfront hotel and I was excited to see that they offer free kayak rental and other stuff for watersport activities. We took advantage of the free kayaks, and it was loads of fun. I also enjoyed one of their relaxing beach massages and walked an hour through their aqua medic pool with heated seawater.

The Grand Mirage organized a trip for us to the Devdan Show in the evening. The show gives a glimpse of Balinese culture in a highly entertaining way with incredible dancers and acrobats. If you stay at the Grand Mirage, don't miss out on this amazing performance! Bring a jacket, it's indoors and quite chilly.

Click here for booking, rates and availability

Enjoying pool time at The Pavilion Hotel Kuta

The Pavilion Hotel (Kuta)

First of all, I wouldn't recommend to stay in Kuta unless you have to. But if you have to, the Pavilion Hotel Kuta is an excellent choice. This hotel is a hidden gem and made our time extremely enjoyable. It's pretty much in the center of Kuta, but in a small side street, so it was quiet for most of the times.

The hotel has a shared pool, surrounded by a lush garden. I felt like being in a jungle, while having a swim. Rooms were new and spotless, much better than some of the 4-star hotels I've stayed at, and this place has only 2 stars. I found it through Agoda, because it had excellent reviews and was listed among the best rated hotels, combined with the lowest rates.

TIP: It's cheaper to book the Pavilion Hotel online, either on Agoda or Booking.com, rather than just walk in. We booked one night online and the next day we wanted to extend and just pay for another night by the reception. However, the rate they quoted us was higher than the rate on Agoda. So we kept booking online. Every night we booked another night, for 4 days in a row! 

I also noticed that when you book on Agoda less than 24 hours prior to arrival, the room rates drop dramatically. We paid between $14-$20/night for a room with AC and TV. I highly recommend this place if you stay in Kuta. 

Click here for booking, rates and availability

Views from the Ganesha Ubud Inn

Ganesha Inn (Ubud)

If you're looking for a budget place in Ubud with breathtaking rice field views, this is for you! The Ganesha Ubud Inn is a beautiful resort, perfectly located in a small side alley along the popular Monkey Forest Road in Ubud. Try to get a room on the upper floor, they views are absolutely stunning. Rooms from around $20/night.

Click here for booking, rates and availability

Bali Weather - When is the best time to go?

Bali's dry season is from April to September, weather-wise it's the best season to go, but also the most crowded time. You get much better deals if you travel during low season from January to March or between October and November. However, expect heavy rainfalls as this is the wet season.

The island is close to the equator line, which means you have a hot climate all year long, mostly above 30 degrees Celsius. Bali is hot. Always. Now you know. 

I hope you'll have a fabulous trip to Bali!

And above all the things I mentioned here,

don't forget to meet and interact with the locals. 

The Balinese are such a kind people.

Talk with the hotel staff and eat where the locals eat.

You'll surely learn something new. 

If you're still reading, I'd like to say thanks for coming to my blog and staying here until the end of this article. I appreciate! If you find this blog post helpful, please share it, pin it, tweet it, or bookmark it.

Thank you and happy travels!

TRAVEL tips BALI

Are you ready to fly to Bali? Here are some quick booking links and resources that I use myself for travel planning. These websites will help you to get started with your Bali itinerary!

Cheap Flights to Bali, Indonesia

Skyscanner is my favorite search engine for finding cheap flights to Bali, from anywhere in the world. I always start my flight search here! 

Transport within Indonesia

Bus, boat, and trains: 12Go is one of the most reliable websites in when it comes to booking buses, ferries and railway. Get an instant seat confirmation and start your overland travel worry-free.

Taxis: Indrive is my go-to app to call a cab. No more hassles with taxi drivers who don't like to use the meter! 

Find a Place to stay in Bali

Hostels, hotels and resorts: Agoda is excellent if you're looking for hotels from budget to luxury! It's one of the largest hotel booking websites in the world. Plenty of options to book now and pay later, or even pay at the hotel. Risk-free booking, many with free cancellation. My other go to is Booking.com.

Homestays and Housesits: For a more authentic and local experience I recommend Homestay.com, a website where you can find places to stay with locals for such a great price. Personally, I'm obsessed with Trusted Housesitters, where you get to stay completely for free in exchange for pet care. Find out more in my article on How to Become a House Sitter and Never Pay for Accommodation.

Fun Tours and Activities in Bali

Get your Guide has plenty of fun activities in Indonesia, such as island hopping, hiking tours and city sightseeing trips. There is plenty of choices to keep yourself entertained!

Klook is similar than the one above, but offers additional options such as airport transfers, SIM cards, and food & dining experiences. It' a great way to meet other travelers while exploring a new place!

eSIM - Stay connected with Internet

Get an eSIM before you go and have Internet available from the second you arrive! I highly recommend Roamless or JetPac -  they're both highly ranked, inexpensive and reliable. 

Travel Insurance

Never go adventuring without travel insurance! I recommend Genki or SafetyWing - they're both very affordable and will cover you in an emergency. 

Do I need a Visa for Indonesia?

Travelers from many countries are allowed to enter Indonesia visa-free, for a period of 30 days. You can check on iVisa whether you need a visa and how long you are permitted to stay.

I was invited to the Samabe Bali Suites & Villas and to the Grand Mirage Resort. All opinions are, as always, my own. 

More Blog Posts about Bali

• 10 Awesome Things to do in Ubud, Bali
• 10 Instagram Worthy Restaurants You Should Visit When You Travel in Bali
• Best Yoga Teacher Training Courses in Bali
• Bali’s Best Yoga Retreats
• Sukhavati Bali - How 10 Days in an Ayurvedic Retreat Reset my Body, Mind and Soul
• Review: OneWorld Ayurveda - An Authentic Panchakarma Experience in Ubud, Bali

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