Are you planning to visit Bali? Then you must know the top attractions and things to do in Bali. This guide provides the list of Bali's most iconic attractions, from clifftop shrines to jungle-shrouded palaces, along with recommended routes for your 2026 Bali journey!
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Things to do in Bali | Uluwatu Temple
Perched on a dramatic limestone cliff 70 meters above the Indian Ocean, this is one of Bali’s six key spiritual pillars.
- The Highlight: The nightly Kecak Fire Dance performed at sunset in an open-air amphitheater. The combination of the rhythmic chanting and the sun dipping below the horizon is an essential Bali experience.
- Pro Tip: Keep a close eye on your belongings; the local monkeys are notorious for "borrowing" sunglasses and hats!
Reviews of Uluwatu Temple
4.5/5
170 reviews
5/5
Very easy with the voucher from trip.com, just showed it at the entenrce and got our ticket
5/5
If you love a blend of nature and Culture, Uluwatu Temple is a good choice. There are many angles and viewpoints to the cliff of the mountain with the beautiful sea at the backdrop. It is strongly advised to watch out for your phones and accessories. we saw monkeys steal a lot of glasses, phones and bags. Unfortunately we didn’t stay for the fire dance because it rained heavily on that day. overall, wonderful experience!
4/5
The Kecak dance performance is great! But the temple area is always a bit nerve-wracking because of the monkeys, and they always try to snatch one 🤪🤪🤪
5/5
It was a nice experience
5/5
The entrance fee is 50,000 rupiah, cash only.
You can buy tickets for the Kecak dance on Klook for cheap, so I recommend buying tickets in advance.
The temple is located by the sea, and the view of the ocean and white waves is great.
Be careful, there are a lot of monkeys and they will steal your things.
The Kecak dance was very entertaining and I really enjoyed it.
Things to do in Bali | Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Monkey Forest Ubud
Located in the heart of Ubud, this natural habitat is home to over 1,200 long-tailed macaques and three ancient temples dating back to the 14th century.
- The Highlight: Walking through the moss-covered bridges and towering banyan trees gives off a distinct "Indiana Jones" vibe. It is a perfect blend of wildlife conservation and spiritual heritage.
- Pro Tip: For the best 2026 photos, visit at 8:30 AM before the midday heat and the largest crowds arrive.
Reviews of Monkey Forest Ubud
4.4/5
311 reviews
5/5
Entry is easy with just a QR code scan.
5/5
I think this place is definitely worth a visit. Behave appropriately, and the monkeys won't even approach you. No one approached us or bit us; they were just playing and eating, that's all.
5/5
A popular tourist attraction. I don't know why, but despite being a densely forested area, it felt a bit warm. I suggest those who are sensitive to heat wear something cool. The monkeys might try to take your food, so if you're going, remember not to bring food with you. Even if you have food in your bag, they might come and rummage through it. If you like animals, you can go. There are a huge number of monkeys.
4/5
So many monkeys, peaceful, nice walking, be careful with your belongings
5/5
We rented motorbikes from Ubud to get there. The monkey enclosure's layout was excellent; the monkeys played freely in the forest, and people strolled around without them getting too uncomfortable. The staff were very friendly and provided detailed explanations. Definitely worth a visit.
Things to do in Bali | Tegalalang Rice Terraces
A stunning display of the UNESCO-listed Subak irrigation system, these emerald-green terraces offer some of the most famous landscapes in Southeast Asia.
- The Highlight: The "Bali Swing" experiences located around the edge of the valley offer breathtaking photo opportunities over the layered rice paddies.
- Pro Tip: After exploring, grab a coffee at one of the cliffside cafes to enjoy the view without the hike.
Reviews of Tegallalang Rice Terrace
4.4/5
187 reviews
5/5
The Tegalalang Rice Terraces are a must-see! They're a natural wonder in the heart of Bali! I'd recommend combining it with a Luwak coffee tasting or a photo shoot on a swing. We got all of this on a budget tour with Trip.com.
5/5
It's very beautiful. A wonderful location. Plenty of photo spots. I recommend it. Even though it was raining, we really enjoyed it.
5/5
This voucher is honestly one of the best things I’ve ever found. It saved me a lot of money while giving me full access to everything — and the experience was absolutely amazing.I arrived around 8:30 a.m., shortly after opening, and I was almost alone in the entire complex. Even the staff were surprised by how little I had paid. When I showed them the voucher description and everything that was included, they had to honor it, even though they initially thought I had only booked the swing.I enjoyed nearly an hour completely by myself at the infinity pool, took fantastic photos, relaxed on the swing, and even received a drink — all for just a few euros.Best deal ever.
5/5
This place is really great ~ It's a well-planned park ~ But there are too many people and the queues are long ~ The swimming pool is the highlight, but it's full of people ~ The park also has a variety of facilities to play ~ It's suitable for people who want to spend a whole day leisurely ~ Order a coconut ~ sit comfortably and leisurely. I also have to admire the staff ~ they have to go up and down so many stairs ~
5/5
These incredibly beautiful rice terraces are one of the most popular tourist spots in the Ubud area.
You can take photos on the swings, which are perfect for Instagram, but it's also fun to just walk around like it's a light trek.
If you get too hot or tired, there are also restaurants and cafes with views of the rice terraces, so they're a great place to take a break.
Things to do in Bali | Tanah Lot Temple
This iconic sea temple sits on a large offshore rock that has been shaped continuously over the years by the ocean tide.
- The Highlight: At low tide, you can walk across to the base of the rock for a blessing with holy water. It is widely considered the most photographed temple in Bali.
- Pro Tip: Since this is a major landmark, traffic from Seminyak or Canggu can be heavy; allow at least 90 minutes for the commute in the late afternoon.
Reviews of Tanah Lot
4.6/5
1665 reviews
5/5
Tanah Lot Temple is more than just a tourist attraction; it's a place where you can pause for a while, look at the sea, and reflect.
5/5
The temple is famous for the Kecak dance, but the temple itself is also huge and well worth a visit.
5/5
Tanah Lot Temple is a fantastical Bali attraction that appears to float on the sea. At low tide you can walk up to it, and at high tide it looks like an isolated island. Especially at dusk, the contrast between the sun setting over the sea and the silhouette of the temple is spectacular. It is a place where the sacred atmosphere and the beauty of nature blend together to quietly cleanse the soul. There are many tourists, but it is a spectacular spot that is worth the visit.
4/5
It has a good area to just sit and relax the view. Unfortunately it was high tide, so we weren’t able to go and explore the temple.
4/5
Tanah Lot is a historic and romantic temple in Bali. Its English name is "Tanah Lot", which means "land in the sea" in Indonesian. It is located on a huge rock, which was formed by the long-term erosion of sea water and stands offshore. Whenever the sea water rises, the passage connecting the Tanah Lot to the shore will be submerged by the sea water, turning the Tanah Lot into an isolated island.
Things to do in Bali | Nusa Penida (Kelingking Beach)
While technically a separate island, a day trip to Nusa Penida is a staple for Bali travelers. Kelingking Beach is world-famous for its rock formation that resembles a T-Rex.
- The Highlight: The view from the top of the cliff is unparalleled. For the adventurous, there is a steep trek down to the pristine white sands below.
- Pro Tip: Fast boats depart daily from Sanur Harbour. For 2026 travel, ensure you book your boat tickets online in advance to secure a morning departure.
Reviews of Kelingking Beach
4.5/5
30 reviews5/5
I went there on a beautiful sunny day, so I was able to see the most amazing scenery. I was surprised at how blue the sea was. I also found out that there were a lot of monkeys there.
4/5
The scenery of the Elf Cliff is really beautiful, but there are also a lot of people@@There is an elevator being built there that can go directly to the beach below. The road down to the beach is also very steep, so it is not recommended for children! The scenery from above is also very comfortable. There are cliffs next to it where you can take photos, but be careful and safe‼ ️ (Because there is no surrounding)
5/5
Amazing place! Beautiful views like from a picture) But, there are a lot of tourists, be prepared to stand in line to take a beautiful photo)
5/5
Natural wonders but too overcrowded with eager instagrammers and influencers.
5/5
I visited there on the morning of March 27, 2023; there were not many tourists in the morning. You can go there and take pictures all to yourself. If you are lucky, you might see mantas from above. It's a must-visit when coming to Nusa Penida. The water is so clear, and the breeze is so fresh. It's best to explore the island if you stay there for a few nights
5 Bali Hidden Gems You Must Visit
If you want to escape the typical tourist trails and experience the authentic soul of the island, these hidden spots offer a refreshing alternative for your 2026 journey.
Things to do in Bali | Tabanan Bangli Hot Springs
Forget the crowded rice paddies of central Ubud and head to the Hot Spring Village in Tabanan. Free from commercial hype, this is a sanctuary where locals go to rejuvenate.
- The Experience: The mineral-rich waters are heated by volcanic underground currents and remain at a perfect temperature for soaking. Surrounded by lush tropical greenery, the private pools under thatched gazebos offer ultimate serenity.
- Local Treat: After your soak, enjoy a cup of freshly brewed ginger tea and Pisang Goreng (local fried bananas)—it’s the ultimate comfort for the soul.
Things to do in Bali | Crystal Bay, Nusa Penida
While most head to the famous "T-Rex" cliff, Crystal Bay remains a tranquil choice for those seeking peace.
- The Experience: The sapphire-blue water is incredibly clear, making it a paradise for snorkeling and swimming. With its fine white sand and swaying palms, it provides a "no-filter-needed" backdrop for a lazy afternoon of sunbathing.
Things to do in Bali | Penglipuran Village
For a deep dive into Balinese heritage, visit Penglipuran, one of the cleanest and most traditional villages in the world.
- The Experience: The village maintains its original ancient layout, with uniform wooden houses and streets lined with vibrant flowers. You can join locals to learn traditional crafts like wood carving or Batik, creating a unique souvenir to take home.
- The Vibe: At dusk, you might catch a local Kecak dance in the village square. Without a fancy stage, the raw, ancient chanting creates an incredibly immersive atmosphere.
Reviews of Penglipuran Village
4.4/5
5 reviews
5/5
Tempat ini selalu ramai dikunjungi oleh turis dan sudah terlalu crowded. untuk nilai budaya sangat bagus sekali
5/5
Penglipuran Village is one of the traditional villages located in Bangli Regency, Bali Province, Indonesia. Penglipuran Village has declared as one of the most cleanest village in the world. Penglipuran village is famous as one of the tourist destinations in Bali because of its society who still preserve their traditional culture in their daily lives. The architecture of buildings and land processing still follows the concept of Tri Hita Karana, the philosophy of Balinese society regarding the balance of relations between God, humans and their environment. Penglipuran Village succeeded in building tourism that benefited all of their communities without losing their culture and traditions. In 1995, Penglipuran Village also received a Kalpataru award from the Indonesian Government for its efforts to protect the Bamboo Forest in their local ecosystem.
4/5
Normally, people who come to Bali don't often visit this village. But for those who have some time left, I would like to recommend you to come and see this traditional Balinese village built according to the beliefs of the Balinese people themselves.
5/5
Panglipuran village is one of the “desa adat” in Bali, you can see the old house built by traditional material. The people is very kind and they lives peacefully side by side, and keep the culture and traditions very well.
Canggu’s Secret Cafes
Tucked away in the coconut groves and rice fields surrounding Canggu, you’ll find minimalist cafes that offer a quieter alternative to the bustling main strip.
- The Experience: Order a signature Coconut Latte and freshly baked banana pancakes. Sitting on an outdoor terrace overlooking the paddies, you can watch local life drift by as time seemingly slows down.
Sunrise in Sanur
Unlike the high-energy crowds of Jimbaran, Sanur Beach in the early morning is a picture of stillness.
- The Experience: Watch the sun rise over the calm horizon as local fishermen head out for their daily catch. It is the perfect spot for a peaceful seaside stroll or a quiet boat ride to feel the gentle morning breeze.
Reviews of Sanur
4.3/5
37 reviews
5/5
For a beach holiday, Sanur has better beaches and less waves than Canggu. The roads are wider and there are more sidewalks. There are no big clubs. However, there is an excellent oceanfront shopping mall and a seaport, from which it's easy to get to the beaches of Nusa Penida, if needed. The airport is a half-hour drive away via a toll road.
5/5
Great overall family friendly place to chill and beach time. The tides here goes in and out depends on the moon cycle. Sunset and sunrise are amazing, breezy beach weather at all time. Quiet and but they have kitesurf, surf, windsurfing is most popular.playground for kids and good decent food all around.
5/5
Great place to relax. Quiet, family friendly beach promenade, famous hotels nearby, best place in Bali
5/5
This beach good view for Sunrise..cause located east part of sanur beach.. so many cafe..resto..bar..with good view to beach area... for main road so many option for villa..and guest house..
4/5
Sanur is a pleasant beach around half an hour from the airport. Significantly more laid back than places like Kuta, Legian etc. Great sunrises. Unfortunately the beach can get very dirty and the water polluted.
What's the Best Bali One-Day Trip?
black building on grey rock hill Via Unsplash (by Harry Kessell)
Choosing the "best" one-day trip in Bali depends on whether you're after culture, adventure, or those iconic social media shots. Based on the most popular routes for 2026, here are the three definitive "gold standard" itineraries.
Things to do in Bali | The "Cultural Heart"
This is the most popular choice for first-time visitors because it covers Bali’s spiritual and natural essentials in a single loop.
- Morning: Ubud Monkey Forest (early to avoid crowds) followed by a walk through the Tegalalang Rice Terraces.
- Midday: Visit Tirta Empul, the sacred water temple, to witness or participate in a purification ritual.
- Afternoon: Cool off at Tegenungan or Tibumana Waterfall.
- Evening: Catch a traditional Kecak or Legong dance at the Ubud Palace.
- Best for: First-timers, families, and culture seekers.
Things to do in Bali | The "Cliff & Coast"
Ideal if you are staying in Seminyak, Canggu, or Kuta and want dramatic ocean views and upscale vibes.
- Morning: Relax at Melasti Beach or Padang Padang Beach (famous from Eat Pray Love).
- Midday: Lunch at a cliff-top cafe in Bingin or Ungasan overlooking the surf.
- Late Afternoon: Explore the Uluwatu Temple perched on a 70-meter cliff.
- Sunset: Watch the Uluwatu Kecak Fire Dance as the sun dips into the Indian Ocean.
- Night: End with a candlelit seafood dinner on the sand at Jimbaran Bay.
- Best for: Couples, sunset lovers, and beach enthusiasts.
Things to do in Bali | The "Instagram Iconic"
This route requires the earliest start (often 5:00 AM) but hits the most photogenic landmarks on the island.
- Early Morning: Lempuyang Temple (the "Gates of Heaven") with Mt. Agung in the background.
- Late Morning: Tirta Gangga Water Palace, where you can walk across stepping stones in koi ponds.
- Afternoon: Tukad Cepung Waterfall, a hidden gem inside a cave where sunbeams create a magical light effect.
- Best for: Photography enthusiasts and those who don't mind a long day of travel.
Hotel Recommendations in Bali
Bali Hotels
5 star
Great405 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|16.74km from downtown
Hotels in Bali can be quite pricey, so I opted for this one, which offered great value for money, and I certainly wasn't disappointed! The environment is beautiful, with little squirrels scampering on the balcony in the mornings. It also has a swimming pool. The breakfast bread section was incredibly rich and varied; I could try a different kind every day, and the cooked items were excellent too. It was very comfortable for a relaxing holiday.FromPHP 5,867
Great100 Reviews
Ubud Bali|22.98km from downtown
No matter what kind of traveler you are, this place is perfect for relaxation.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel their thoughtful service. All the art and sculptures are truly inspiring.
I highly recommend unwinding at the lowest pool — it’s incredibly relaxing to be surrounded by lush greenery next to a beautiful and clean pool.
An amazing resort that has everything you need, with attentive and thoughtful service.FromPHP 4,497
Great488 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.95km from downtown
The hotel is quite large with a great environment, and the cleanliness and service are both good. However, the facilities are a bit old, and the lighting in the room is too dim. Additionally, the pool is a bit small, and Jimbaran beach was so incredibly dirty that we felt a bit bored by the second day.FromPHP 7,440
Great490 Reviews
Uluwatu Bali|19.37km from downtown
”A hotel you want to return to!”
The hotel is wonderful, but its true treasure is the people who work here. I want to sincerely thank Armaja and Eugenia! These employees are a perfect example of how guests should be treated. They show genuine care, always have a smile, and resolve any requests instantly. Thank you for your big hearts, responsiveness and efficiency!
A special shout-out to the chefs: the food at the hotel is fantastic.FromPHP 6,403
Great474 Reviews
Ubud Bali|16km from downtown
Exceeded all expectations! The hotel has a semi-open design, giving it a really chill and convenient vibe. There are so many famous Ubud restaurants and small shops nearby, and Pison is right next door. It's super easy to get to ATV tours, spas, and the zoo. The biggest surprise was when the handsome, braces-wearing guy at the hotel upgraded us to Alaya Suites, a new property just a few minutes walk from the original Alaya. The new hotel is fantastic, with exceptional service and delicious, freshly prepared breakfasts! We stayed at Potato Head, Anantara, and Bulgari during our trip to Bali, but considering the overall value for money, Alaya costs less than half and offers a unique experience. I would definitely stay at Alaya again next time I'm in Bali. Huge thanks to the hotel and staff for their warm hospitality.FromPHP 7,018
Business travel
Very Good377 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|6.6km from downtown
It is 4 star hotel but the stay that I had was not up to that par. Our toilet seat has stain, and the shower room is smelly when we used the shower. The water spray is way too strong that we have to call them to fix on it. The sound proof is not good, you can hear people around you and the hotel staff did not come and warn them to lower the noise. They also didn’t have bell boy who can assist, probably work on shift hour. Although I have a great service with them for room service, however the cleanlines and the noise experience that I had, made me not to come back to this hotel again.FromPHP 834
Very Good359 Reviews
Sanur Bali|7.01km from downtown
As a five-star hotel, it's not perfect, but given the great price, it's acceptable.
The beach is just a few steps from the hotel's pool, and it seems to be a public one, as there's a boardwalk along the entire waterfront, perfect for a stroll.
There are plenty of lounge chairs by the sea, and the sand is nice. However, the beach isn't ideal for swimming, though you can still take a dip if you want to.FromPHP 3,522
Very Good309 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.42km from downtown
My first stop in Bali was Kuta, and this hotel was a great choice. It's super close to the airport, which is perfect for late-night arrivals. The hotel offers excellent value for money, and the staff are incredibly friendly and helpful. It's also conveniently located for getting around. If you enjoy walking, it's not a long stroll to Beachwalk, and you'll even pass through Jalan Legian, soaking in the local sights and culture along the way. The hotel does have a pool, but it's on the smaller side, and I didn't get a chance to use it. This isn't really a hotel for just lounging around; it's more suited for travelers who plan to be out exploring daily or those catching a flight, and who don't have super high expectations for their accommodation.FromPHP 1,036
Very Good712 Reviews
Kuta Bali|9.39km from downtown
This hotel is located in a bustling area of Kuta, just over a ten-minute drive from the airport. The buildings are arranged around a spacious and beautiful courtyard with three pools, perfect for Western vacationers. The breakfast at the restaurant is good. The rooms are spacious, and the bathrooms are enormous. The hotel offers a peaceful retreat despite being in a lively area, and the price is reasonable. The front desk and room service staff are proactive and friendly. There are numerous dining and shopping options right outside the hotel.FromPHP 2,161
Very Good367 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|6.77km from downtown
Great hotel, right in the of Seminyak. A lot of restaurants bars and clubs nearby. Changgu and Seminyak-Legian beaches are easily reachable by scooter from that place.
Hotel is very clean, new and comfortable amenities, service is great! Pool is fine, cleaning is also perfect.
I recommend!FromPHP 1,089
Breakfast
Very Good320 Reviews
Ubud Bali|21.48km from downtown
That was very luxury. rooms are very clean and big. Swimming pool is very and have hot pool. Hot pool is very nice for me. restaurants food is delicious. Dont go outside walk nothing . Just relax chill buy food from restaurants . they have 2 restaurants .but food is not expensive orice was ok for meFromPHP 5,586
Great391 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.1km from downtown
Thank you so much to the hotel team for a wonderful stay. The room was clean and comfortable, and the atmosphere was very relaxing. The staff were kind, helpful, and always welcoming. I truly appreciated the warm hospitality and good service. I would be happy to stay here again. I love ASR’s hotelsFromPHP 2,117
Amazing1029 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|19.15km from downtown
A totally wonderful place to relax and renew. The hotel is amazing in terms of space , facilities … just wow . And has a nice beach club and front. The rooms are amazing and bed so comfortable , really had a good sleep and rest. Enjoyed the yoga class in the morning too - facing the ocean, wonderful. Although it was raining during my stay , it never felt that I am missing out as the property has so much and in fact felt well rested indoor. Lots of food options too as there are different restaurants with various cuisines to try and enjoy. Love the showcaseon arts too. A big shout out to all the staff - their warmth and smiles , incredible. Felt very welcoming - The check in was so personalised. Will definitely want to visit again and this time for a longer stay!FromPHP 15,152
Very Good174 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14km from downtown
The room was exactly as pictured and described. The breakfast wasn't great; there was no congee with noodles, only plain congee, milk, bread, and coffee (which was decent when made fresh). The 'Seafood Carnival' was a disappointment. 🤔 It wasn't as good as the first convenience store to the left across from the hotel. That place has a huge seafood platter for just over 300, and it's incredibly fresh. The lobster and tiger prawns with garlic butter sauce are especially worth trying there. The hotel's seafood tasted like it had been frozen and wasn't very fresh, though the live music and atmosphere were a plus. The seafood platter shown in the picture is not from the hotel.
What truly stands out is the fantastic service and warm smiles from every single staff member. They genuinely care, and I would definitely come back again.FromPHP 6,280
Great118 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|15.75km from downtown
We are a family of two adults, kids aged 16, 12, 6, and 4. We enjoyed a great stay. Highlights were the kids pool foam party, the huge pool area and the rooms.
Tips for those staying here:
1. Aim to get to breakfast before 8 am as it starts to fill up after then.
2. Noon your cabana early. They’re not expensive but don’t just book it for the sake of holding onto it. We weren’t able to use any during our stay as we were a bit slow off the mark to book one and there were some that remained unused but booked out.
3. The food is excellent. You cannot miss the chocolate hour. There is also a small shopping area nearby. For amenities and essentials you will need to walk down the road to one of the convenience stores.
4. Make sure the kids see the bird display that sometime appears near the pool. These are parrots brought in by one of the local bird sanctuaries. There was the opportunity to have a photo with these birds. There was also an afternoon reptile display (boa constrictors, geckos etc) near the shopping area next to the hotel.
5. Download and use the Grab app. It’s like Uber for SE Asia.FromPHP 8,177
FAQs about Bali Attractions
What are the key attractions in Bali?
5 Top Tourist Attractions in Bali for First-Time Visitors:
Uluwatu Temple: A Majestic Cliffside Sanctuary and Cultural Gem.
Ubud Monkey Forest: A Lush Sanctuary for Nature and Culture Lovers.
Tegallalang Rice Terraces: Iconic Bali Landscapes You Can't Miss.
Tanah Lot Temple: Bali's Iconic Sea Temple and Sunset Hotspot.What should I not miss in Bali?
Bali offers an incredible mix of culture, nature, and adventure. Do not miss the iconic Tegallalang Rice Terraces, the sunset views at Uluwatu Temple, the spiritual Tirta Empul water temple, and the stunning cliffs of Nusa Penida. Also essential are hiking Mount Batur for sunrise, exploring the Ubud Monkey Forest, and relaxing on beaches in Canggu or Uluwatu.What is the prettiest place in Bali?
Bali's most beautiful spots include the dramatic cliffs of Kelingking Beach (Nusa Penida), the lush Tegalalang Rice Terraces (Ubud), and sacred temples like Lempuyang and Ulun Danu Beratan. For nature, explore the massive Sekumpul Waterfall in the north and the serene Sidemen Valley. Stunning, less-crowded, or scenic spots include Amed (black sand beaches) and Munduk.What to avoid when in Bali?
Misbehaving in Holy Places. Temples are more than just buildings with stunning architecture.
Disrespecting Traditional Ceremonies. Bali has a lot of festivals and ceremonies. ...
Touching Balinese People's Head.
Peeing in a Public Area.
Use Single-Use Plastic.