Best Things To Do In Ubud, Bali | 2024 Guide

Indonesia and in particular, the island of Bali, has always been one of our favourite destinations in the world. We’ve been lucky enough to spend a few months exploring many corners of Indonesia, from the cultural cities in Java, to the remote parts of Raja Ampat. 

Since our first visit back in 2015, Bali has been a destination we keep coming back to.  And while there is lots to do and see in Bali, for us, the biggets draw card had been the spiritual centre of Bali – Ubud. 

Situated among lush, green jungles, intricate rice terraces, and ancient temples, Ubud has a unique cultural and artistic charm. The name “Ubud” comes from the Balinese word “obat” or medicine, so it’s not surprising that healing, wellness, and connection with nature have always been part of the local culture in Ubud. 

Today, its influence is seen and felt: the town is packed with yoga studios, galleries, cafés, and boutiques all centred around the same values. 

Whether it’s healing and wellness for your mind, body, or spirit – Ubud offers plenty of opportunities. 

We have visited Ubud many times and under the guidance of good friends who call Ubud home, we got a chance to experience Ubud from a unique perspective. We’ve eaten at dozens of restaurants, checked out yoga studios and fitness clubs, visited temples, and went on many day trips around Ubud. This article is a compilation of our top recommendations!

If you’re looking for things to do in Ubud, Bali, keep reading to get a complete account of insider guide to Ubud. 

Best Time To Visit Ubud, Bali

You can visit Ubud at any time of year and experience little change in temperature weather-wise. But as with any country in Southeast Asia, its two seasons – wet and dry – have their own advantages and disadvantages.

From May to September, the weather is hot and dry. This time of the year is best for water sports like diving and surfing. These months also coincide with Ubud’s busy season as thousands of Australians head to Ubud to escape winter. The crowds in Ubud pick up, leading to a surge in prices for hotels, flights, and more. Brace yourself for heavy traffic, especially in July when the crowds tend to get much heavier.

From November to March, the rainy season arrives. Rain showers are common every day but don’t last very long and aren’t usually excessive. Most of the time, you can still do the usual activities, save for volcano treks depending on the amount of rainfall. These months tend to see fewer tourists (aside from Christmas and New Year’s) and offer greener jungles and rice fields.

How to Get to Ubud, Bali

Ubud is located in Central Bali. The closest international airport is Denpasar Bali Ngurah Rai (DPS), located 40km (24.85 mi) away. That may sound close, but in Denpasar traffic, the drive to Ubud often takes 2-3 hours. 

There are different ways to get from Ngurah Rai International Airport to Ubud, Bali: 

By Private Transfer

The most convenient way to get from Denpasar Airport to central Ubud is to book a private transfer in advance. It’s comfortable, punctual, and takes you straight to your accommodation. 

If you are staying at a hotel or B&B in Ubud, you can also ask your host to organize a shuttle for you. Be prepared to pay in cash upon arrival. 

By Taxi

Taxi from Denpasar Airport to central Ubud costs around IDR 400K -500K (USD $25-30) depending on traffic and your negotiation skills. A good rule of thumb is to stick to official taxis to ensure your safety and fair pricing. There are taxi counters with signages inside the airport terminal where you can hail an official Denpasar taxi.

Alternatively, there’s a taxi stand outside the airport where you might be able to haggle lower fares. Make sure you agree on a price first before putting your bags in any taxi. Be wary of “broken” taxi meters. If this happens, be ready to negotiate a fixed price between you and your driver. 

Note: Uber is not available in Bali, but Grab is a good alternative in Asia. You can download the Grab app at home before departure or upon arrival in Bali and order your Grab car in the same way as you would with Uber. You can find the green Grab Lounge right outside arrivals. 

By Airport Shuttle Bus

Kura-Kura Bus operates a public shuttle bus service (it’s really more of a minivan) with daily routes to popular tourist areas in Bali. They offer shared airport transfers to Ubud starting at IDR 500K (USD $34) for a minivan with a maximum capacity of 4 people.

Getting Around Ubud, Bali

If you stay in central Ubud (more on that later in the article), it is possible to get around Ubud on foot if you enjoy walking. While there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops in central Ubud, some activities, attractions and plenty of other restaurants are located within a 5-10km radius, making it a bit far for walking. 

Whenever we come to Ubud, we use a combination of the below options to get around. 

Rent a Scooter

The easiest way to get around Ubud is to rent a scooter. But please do so only if you feel confident driving one. Traffic in Ubud is no joke, and driving a scooter on the streets of Ubud should really be left to confident drivers only. Scooter rental prices can range from IDR 40K-60K (USD $2.50-3.85) a day. 

If you are going to rent a scooter, here are a few things to remember:

• You are legally required to have an international driver’s permit to rent a scooter, although most rental agencies in Ubud don’t enforce this rule. 
• Helmets are compulsory for motorbike riders in Bali. Although many locals and visitors opt not to wear one, we highly encourage you to do so. Safety first! 
• Please make sure that you buy travel insurance before riding or jumping on the back of a scooter. Scooter accidents in Bali are a daily occurrence, and sadly, GoFundMe campaigns to help raise funds to cover hospital bills are also on the rise. Don’t become a statistic. 

Use Ride-Hailing Apps like Grab or Gojek

If you don’t feel comfortable riding a scooter, you can use the Grab App to order a scooter ride. We find this option safer, as local drivers are experienced and know how to navigate Ubud traffic best. A typical trip within Ubud costs just a few dollars. 

Note that while most Grab drivers offer passenger helmets, they tend to be pretty filthy. So carry your own (you can rent one from any scooter shop in town) or wear a shower cap or sarong to protect your hair from lice (yes, it’s a thing!). 

Hire a Private Car and Driver

For things to do in Ubud that are a bit further away, you can hire a private car and driver. You can organize this with your hotel/Airbnb or at one of the many agencies in town. The daily rate for a car/driver is around USD $30-80, depending on your itinerary and plans. One-off trips around Ubud cost around $10/ride. 

We do not recommend using Grab Car/Taxi to get around central Ubud for two reasons:

• Cars can’t weave around traffic as much as scooters, so journeys tend to take significantly longer. 
• Many cafes and restaurants are located down small scooter paths and are simply not reachable by car. 

If you are not comfortable riding on the back of a scooter, be prepared that navigating your way around Ubud will take longer, will cost a bit more and may require a bit more walking. 

Best Things To Do In Ubud, Bali

1. Visit Temples and Palaces 

Like most places in Southeast Asia, Ubud is full of temples and palaces. A trip to Ubud isn’t complete unless you step foot on temple grounds at least once. Each temple has its own charm and historical and religious relevance. 

Ubud Royal Palace

Entrance Fee: Free
Opening Hours: 8:00AM – 6:00PM

Also known as Puri Saren Agung, this temple is perhaps the most famous. Located in the middle of Ubud, Bali, it’s a historical landmark, museum, and centre of traditional arts. Stop by at 7:30PM to catch their daily traditional dance performances. 

Saraswati Temple (Ubud Water Palace)

Entrance Fee: Free
Opening Hours: 8:00AM – 5:00PM

Pura Taman Saraswati Temple, Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati, or simply the Ubud Water Palace is dedicated to the goddess Sarasvati. It was built by an Ubud prince, and is best known for its red and white stones, impressive stone carvings, and expansive lotus pond.

Pura Gunung Lebah Temple

Entrance Fee: Free
Opening Hours: 8:00AM – 5:00PM

This temple’s name translates to “Temple of the Mountain Valley.” It’s one of Ubud’s central landmarks and one of the largest temples on the island. As you can guess from the name, a stroll here involves a lot of nature. The temple is surrounded by the rice paddies of Campuhan and tall cane fields. Walk through, and you’ll pass Campuhan Ubud River, and on clear days, you might even see as far as Mount Agung.

Pura Dalem Temple

Entrance Fee: IDR 20K (USD $1.28) with sarong
Opening Hours: 9:00AM – 5:00PM

This accessible temple is just a 6-minute walk from Ubud Center. “Pura Dalem” means temple of death, but it’s not necessarily a bad thing. The Balinese believe in a balance of good and evil, which gives this temple more perspective. The Pura Dalem is dedicated to Rangda, the Demon Queen, and you’ll find large statues of her and other Balinese demons within the temple complex. Stop by at night and catch the traditional Kecak & Fire Dance Performance at 7:30 PM for a fee of IDR 100K (USD $6.40).

Pura Samuan Tiga

Entrance Fee: IDR 10K (USD $0.64)
Opening Hours: 6:00AM – 7:00PM

Called “Temple of the Meeting of the Three,” its name is likely a reference to the Hindu trinity. Balinese people believe this temple is the place to meet goods, deities, and saints. It’s surrounded by rivers Pande and Tegending on the east, a swimming pool on the west, and sacred trees all around. This temple is only 400m away from Goa Gajah or the sanctuary of the Elephant Cave.

2. Visit a Water Temple

A water temple is a unique type of temple in Bali known for the traditional water blessing ceremonies. There are 5 different water temples around Bali, with a few famous ones located around Ubud. 

Tirta Empul Temple (Water Temple Pura Tirta Empul)

Entrance Fee: IDR 50K (USD $3.20)
Opening Hours: 8:00AM – 6:00PM

Located about 45 minutes from Ubud, Tirta Empul is one of the five holiest temples in Bali and home to some of the holiest waters. As it’s considered sacred by the Balinese Hindu community, it’s also one of the busiest water temples in Indonesia. The Tirta Empul temple has several holy springs with blessed water believed to purify those who bathe there, so naturally, it tends to be a very popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple

Entrance Fee: IDR 15K (USD $0.96) with sarong
Opening Hours: 8:00AM – 4:00PM

Locals call this “Pura Tirta Dawa Gunung Kawi Sebatu.” Surprisingly, it’s one of Bali’s least-visited temples despite being one of the most tranquil and beautiful. This water temple is dedicated to Vishnu, who rules over the water. The temple complex is built on a natural spring, which feeds a series of ponds and pools filled with blooming lotus and carp. There’s also a bathing section that locals and visitors are welcome to use, but photography isn’t allowed there.

Taman Beji Griya Waterfall

Entrance Fee: USD $25
Opening Hours: 9:00AM – 6:00 PM daily

This waterfall is a bit of a hidden gem, known for its serene and spiritual atmosphere. Located in the village of Punggul, just 20 mins drive from Ubud, this waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and features a tranquil pool at its base. The waterfall offers a variety of guided traditional water purification rituals starting at $25/person. Unfortunately, there is no way to see and explore the waterfall without a guided tour, but we found this spot to be less crowded compared to other Bali waterfalls.

3. Explore the Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Enjoying a view of the rice terraces in Ubud is another must. Wake up early to beat the crowds, and admire the natural surroundings at Tegalalang Rice Terraces. Soak up the gorgeous green rice fields and tall palm trees. 

You can also book a tour that includes a guided trek through the rice terraces and a ticket for the famous Bali jungle swing.

4. Visit the Ubud Monkey Forest

Located within Central Ubud, the Sacred Ubud Monkey Forest is a temple complex home to more than 1,260 long-tailed macaques. It’s quite touristy, but still a fun place to go. We recommend visiting the Ubud Monkey Forest during sunrise or sunset for picturesque views. If you want to visit a less popular monkey forest, there’s also the Sangeh Monkey Forest.

Note: No matter which forest you visit, remember that the monkeys here smart and can be quite aggressive. Do not feed them, carry any food while walking through the forest, or hold any loose items they can grab. They are known to take sunglasses, hats, purses, or even cameras from

5. Visit Goa Gajah (The Elephant Cave)

Entrance Fee: IDR 50K (USD $3.20)
Hours: 8:00AM – 4:00PM

Contrary to its name, you won’t find any elephants in Goa Gajah. In fact, there were never any elephants in ancient Bali. Some say the temple was named after the nearby Sungai Penanu River, once known as the Elephant River, or because the face over the cave entrance resembles an elephant. The courtyard has lots of relics, rock-wall carvings, bathing pools, and fountains. From Goa Gajah, you can head down through the rice paddies and reach Sungai Petanu. There, you’ll find rock carvings and a small cave.

6. Take a Sunset Walk on Campuhan Ridge Walk

Campuhan Ridge Walk is a free nature trail with the starting point only 10 minutes from the Ubud central area. Winding along lush rice fields and picturesque ravines, it’s an easy walk and a wonderful way to see the natural beauty in Ubud. You can make it as long or short a walk as you want, with the full circular walk being about 10km if you start from town. There are spots along the way where you can divert and grab a meal or a cool drink, like Karsa Kafe.

A small bridge over the sacred Campuhan River leads to the Pura Gunung Lebah Temple Complex, so you can hit two spots in one go. The best time to do the Campuhan Ridge Walk is during sunset, when the temperature is cool, and the colourful skies contrast the endless green slopes.

7. Join a Balinese Cooking Class

A great way to learn about Balinese culture is to pick up some local recipes! This guided experience features a hotel pickup, a stop at a local market to hand-select fresh ingredients, and an interactive cooking class where you learn to make Balinese dishes. You’ll also get a tour of a rice plantation and learn how the crops are cultivated, and settle into your cooking space in a beautiful kitchen garden in a traditional village away from the hustle and bustle of Ubud, Bali.

8. Work Up a Sweat at Titi Batu 

Can’t miss a workout even on vacation? Titi Batu is one of our favourite fitness clubs in Ubud, Bali, offering classes, sports courts, pools (one for laps and one for relaxing), a skate park, a sauna, and free weekly events. There’s also a kid’s park, a family pool, a coffee shop and a restaurant on-site. 

They’re open from 8am to 10pm daily, and offer day passes that start at IDR 187K (USD $12).

9. Join a Yoga Class

Practicing yoga is, arguably, one of the best things to do in Ubud, Bali. Yoga Barn is the most famous yoga studio in town, extremely popular for workshops, retreats and classes. If you get a chance to attend a class by Paul, Byron, or Alyssa, consider yourself lucky!

Another great option is Radiantly Alive, a studio that offers a diverse range of yoga classes for all kinds of moods, expertise, and intentions. They even have sound healing sessions and kirtans.

For a more intimate practice, check out Intuitive Flow. They offer daily drop-in classes, retreats, workshops, and teacher training courses. It’s a nice alternative to the central Ubud studios. Most of the instructors here are local Indonesians rather than expats, which may appeal to some. 

10. Experience the Art of Ancient Sound Healing

Head to the Pyramids of Chi and feel Bali’s magical energy. In their unique classes and sessions, they combine pyramid power, sacred geometry, polar alignment, and ancient sounds. In addition to yoga and meditation, they also offer cacao ceremonies, chanting sessions, sound healing, light therapy, breath and voice workshops, spiritual awakening, and more.

11. Book a Spa Day

Planning a spa day is also one of the best things to do in Ubud, as there are a lot of great options ranging from budget to luxury. Here are our top picks:

• Lumeria is has a unique offering with a traditional herb steam room, a sauna, and a cold plunge. They also have yoga classes on-site. 
• Taksu Spa does the best facials and specialized massages. If you’re travelling with friends, check out their group packages. Finish off with a delicious meal at their on-site keto restaurant. 
• Fresh! Spa stands out as a fun retro urban spa that offers massages, facials, nail care, spa packages and more.
• Starchild Spa 2 is our go-to for relaxing Balinese massage that doesn’t break the bank.

12. Get a Tattoo at Karma House

If getting a sacred tattoo interests you at all, Karma House is your spot. Tattooing has always had a deep significance in Balinese culture. Here, you can get a traditional bamboo or hand poke tattoo by some of the best local tattoo artists. 

13. Learn More About Sustainability at The Green School

The Green School is an awesome place to visit if you’re interested in sustainability and alternative education. You can take a tour of this bamboo school and see how the children in the local community are educated to be the eco-warriors of tomorrow.

14. Go Shopping

If you’re in the mood to go shopping, the Ubud area is a great place to be. Take a stroll along the streets in Central Ubud and you’ll come across a number of shops ranging from typical “made in china” souvenir shops to authentic artisenal arts and crafts, boutique clothing shops and more. Here are just a few worth mentioning. 

Ubud Art Market is the main market to buy local handicrafts, woven bags, trinkets, houseware, and other goods that Bali is known for. The best part is buying straight from the local vendors. If you’re looking for the best Bali souvenirs, clothes, and accessories, you’ll likely find them at Ubud Market.

ARTcycleBALI: For funky fashion accessories, check out ARTcycleBALI. They sell products like jewellery, accessories, and bags made from upcycled tyres. Their earrings are the best!

Blue Stone Botanicals is a boutique store in Ubud that sells essential oils, mists, soaps, candles and more. These health and wellness products are all cruelty-free, vegetarian, and are ethically and sustainably made.

Eco Ego: This store was made popular by their Suki Wooden Glasses, but Eco Ego has since expanded to other contemporary accessories like handbags and jewellery. These are made from sustainably sourced bamboo and other natural, biodegradable materials.

15. Attend A Festival

There’s always something going on in Bali’s cultural and arts hub. Attending a festival is a great way to get a feel of the local culture in Ubud. Here are a few to consider, with many other one off festivals happening in Ubud throughout the year. 

Bali Spirit Festival: A perfect combination of yoga, dance, music and healing, as well as a celebration of joy and friendship. Last year, about 250,000 guests came to join the party and they definitely know how to have a good time. The festival is an annual event, taking place in May 

Ubud Food Festival: This festival is a foodie’s dream come true. In 2024, the festival followed the theme of “Take it to the Streets,” offering a flavrouful expedition across the streets of Ubud and beyond. Plans for future festivals are in the works, so be sure to check their website for dates and details. 

Ubud Village Jazz Festival: Music-lovers might be interested in this curated, intimate, and eco-friendly international jazz festival. Happening in August at Sthala Ubud, guests can expect an impressive line-up from jazz artists all over the world. This year’s festival is going to be extra special as it’s meant to celebrate the event’s 11th anniversary.

READ NEXT: 2-Weeks Bali Travel Itinerary

Best Restaurants in Ubud, Bali

Eating was also one of our favourite things to do in Ubud–delicious food was everywhere! Our top 10 favourites below:

Alchemy: This restaurant is 100% raw, vegan, and organic. They serve a variety of dishes here, from pizzas, salads, poke bowls, and medicinal soups to nourish the soul. We usually order tempeh and tofu, their colourful salads, cold-pressed juices and finish off with vegan ice cream.

Flourish: They serve healthy, homemade food that’s 100% gluten-free. We’re big fans of their bowls. You can build your own, or order the classics like the Morocco Bowl, Buddha Bowl, or Flourish Bowl.

Mudra: Head here for the best matcha in Ubud! Mudra serves micro-batch roasted Awakened coffee and Enlightened tea. For food, their seaweed tacos are a must! They also serve dragon bowls, hand-tossed authentic Roti, and fresh Sulawesi Sashimi Poke.

Sayuri Healing Food: At this Café garden, intent is everything. The food they serve acts as a tool that keeps us aligned with nature. They serve their plant-based and raw food as nature intended. Must-tries include pumpkin soup, tempeh burger, and vegan salmon on onion bread. 

KAFE Ubud: This neighbourhood restaurant has been serving healthy comfort food in Ubud since 2004. Their menu is “organically-inspired,” and they serve everything from wholesome breakfasts, super-smoothies, marinated meat dishes, and vegan, raw, and gluten-free options. Favourites include the mezze plate, the red rice nasi goreng, and their fresh juices.

Nostimo Greek: You might not expect to find a Greek restaurant in Ubud, but Nostimo is here to satisfy any Greek cravings. They serve authentic Greek flavours with a modern island vibe. Drop by for lunch or dinner, and enjoy a feast with their mixed grill, gyros, kebabs, salads, and more.

Locavore To Go: A casual offshoot of the popular Locavore, Locavore-to-Go serves no-frills comfort food with locally sourced meats, like classic sandwiches, charcuterie platters, and the exciting Sandwich of the Month. Try their famous Burger à la Ray, named after one of the Locavore chefs, and enjoy coffee sourced from the local roastery, Hungry Bird.

Honey & Smoke: Modern Australian cuisine is served at a restaurant with a speakeasy feel. At Honey & Smoke, the chargrill is the star of the show. Crowd favourites include the tempura zucchini flowers, burrata, scallops, lamb skewers, and prawns. Of course, the steak is a staple. They serve excellent cocktails, too!

Plant Bistro: A quaint, plant-based restaurant with a delicious menu from starters to desserts. The interiors give off French bistro vibes, but the cuisine is much more varied. They have salmon bruschetta, caprese salad, pizza, hummus and pita, and even sushi. For dessert, try their pastries, donuts, and gelato.

Batubara: Hands down, the best place to get steak in Ubud. They offer a range of shared plates, premium cuts of meat grilled to perfection on wood fire with a selection of sides. The fries and grilled veggies are great. Seating is outside in a cozy garden. 

Best Hotels in Ubud, Bali

Budget: Artini Bisma Ubud Hotel

This hotel is our go to for clean and affordable hotel in central Ubud. It’s within walking distance to popular restaurants and bars and attractions like the Ubud Monkey Forest and Ubud Art Market. The rooms are spacious and have private bathrooms and showers and a great view of the garden or the outdoor pool. Staff is wonderful and very accommodating. 

Mid Range: Bambu Indah

A thoughtfully designed sustainable boutique hotel, Bambu Indah literally means “beautiful bamboo.” One look at this accommodation and you’ll see why. The resort combines beautiful bamboo architecture and design in a luxury setting, with accommodations ranging from bamboo tents, antique teak wood homes, and a riverside “palace.” There’s space here whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, with groups of friends or family.

They have a wonderful tropical garden that doesn’t just give the place its peaceful ambiance, but is also a source of produce for both customers and staff. Among the greenery, there’s a natural pool that uses lava stones and a vegetation regeneration zone that cleans, filters, and oxygenates the water without the use of concrete or chemicals. The on-site restaurant is another great reason to stay here! 

Luxury: Hoshinoya Bali 

The Hoshinoya Resorts brand hails from Japan, but this newly opened luxury property just outside of Ubub is inspired by the lesser-known cultures of Bali. Surrounded by jungles and terraced rice fields, this sanctuary offers spiritual connections and a luxury stay that’s worth the splurge. 

Guest villas are massive and feature designs inspired by traditional Balinese architecture and stand alongside a long pool that connects all villas on site. The 2-story villas are beautifully decorated with wooden furnishing, en suite bathrooms, and private terraces and can accommodate up to 4 people. 

The nightly rate starts at around $250/person and includes a number of free cultural activities, drinks, and other perks. 

How Much Time Do You Need In Ubud, Bali?

A minimum of three days will be enough to see the major sights in Ubud, Bali, but it isn’t nearly enough to explore the town’s charm to the fullest. It’s the kind of place where people often get stuck on their travels and end up staying longer than they originally planned. 

Give yourself ample time to see all that you want to see, and then add a few days as a buffer.