Ubud Bali Guide: Top Things to Do, Where to Stay & Best Time to Visit

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Ubud Bali

Planning Your Ubud Bali Adventure? Let's Make It Easy.​ Here, you will never lack things to see and do. This article will tell you Ubud Bali attractions, where to stay and best time to visit Ubud Bali! To help you explore the essence of Ubud Bali, here is the guide for a better travel.

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Is Ubud Bali Worth to Visit?

Is Ubud Bali Worth to Visit?

Ubud

Yes, Ubud is highly worth visiting. Often referred to as the cultural and spiritual heart of Bali, it offers a refreshing contrast to the coastal scenes in Canggu or Seminyak. It is the perfect destination if you are looking for lush jungles, ancient temples, and wellness retreats.

Why You Should Go

  • Culture & Art: It's the best place on the island to experience traditional Balinese dance performances, visit art museums, and shop at the local art markets.
  • Nature & Views: You'll be surrounded by steep, emerald-green valleys, including the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces and stunning nearby waterfalls.
  • Wellness & Food: Ubud is world-famous for its yoga studios, meditation retreats, and incredible vegan and international dining scenes.

Things to Consider

  • No Beaches: Ubud is entirely inland. If you want to surf or spend your days lounging on the beach, you will need to stay in coastal areas.
  • Traffic & Crowds: Central Ubud can be heavily congested and chaotic. Many travelers suggest staying slightly outside the town center in neighboring villages like Penestanan or Nyuh Kuning for a quieter experience.
Reviews of Ubud Bali
4.6/5
231 reviews
5/5
It's a fairly large forest, you'll definitely spend about an hour in it.
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5/5
I enjoyed the performance: the dancing, music, and surroundings were seamlessly integrated, and the hour and a half flew by. Those sitting in the back probably had a hard time seeing because the benches were all level, so it's best to arrive half an hour before the show starts.
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5/5
A shady forest with stunning views. The monkeys aren't aggressive, but be careful—they might steal something.
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5/5
Ubud became one of my favorite places in Bali because the atmosphere here feels completely different from the busy beach areas. I spent time walking through the city, visiting local temples, exploring the famous Monkey Forest, relaxing in small cafes, and seeing the beautiful rice terraces around Ubud.One of the most unforgettable moments was walking through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces early in the morning when the jungle and palm trees were covered in soft sunlight. The Monkey Forest was also very interesting because the monkeys move freely around ancient temple ruins and tropical jungle paths.I recommend staying in Ubud for at least a few days to fully experience the local culture and peaceful atmosphere. There are many cozy cafes with jungle views, traditional Balinese restaurants, yoga studios, markets, and hidden streets worth exploring. Renting a scooter is a convenient way to visit nearby waterfalls, temples, and rice fields.Ubud is a perfect place for people who want nature, culture, relaxation, and a more authentic side of Bali away from crowded tourist beaches.
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4/5
I went spontaneously to kill some time, and it was nice to see the horizontal QR code and monkeys running around.
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When is the Best Time to Visit Ubud Bali & What to Expect

When is the Best Time to Visit Ubud Bali & What to Expect

brown and green temple near lake and green mountain under blue sky during daytime Via Unsplash (by Mahmud Ahsan)

The best time to visit Ubud is fromMay to June and September to October. During these shoulder months, you will enjoy the ideal dry weather, clear skies, and lower humidity without the massive tourist crowds of the peak summer months.

Choosing the right time to visit depends on what you want out of your trip:

1. Shoulder Season (May, June, September, October) — Best Overall

  • The Vibe: The perfect balance. Weather is warm and sunny with very little rain, making it excellent for outdoor activities like trekking the Campuhan Ridge Walk or exploring the Tegallalang Rice Terraces.
  • Events: You catch the early cultural buzz and beautiful events before the peak rush.

2. Peak Season (July and August) — Best for Festivals

  • The Vibe: Sunny, dry, and cool. However, this is the busiest time of the year globally, and Ubud's central streets and attractions get highly congested.
  • Events: Major events like the Bali Kite Festival and the Bali Arts Festival take place. Book accommodations and tours far in advance.

3. Wet Season (November to April) — Best for Wellness & Budget

  • The Vibe: Higher rainfall and humidity, but showers usually come in short, heavy bursts, leaving plenty of dry time. The surrounding jungles and rice terraces become intensely lush and vibrant.
  • Perks: This is the best time for budget-conscious travelers, as flights and hotels offer great deals. It's also perfect for enjoying Ubud's indoor charms, like world-class yoga retreats and spas.

Top Things to Do in Ubud Bali: Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Top Things to Do in Ubud Bali: Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Scenic view of Bali rice terraces bathed in golden sunrise light. Via Pexels (by AHMAD GHANI)

Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung)

Often revered as the birthplace of Balinese art, Ubud Palace preserves the rich history of the region dating back to the 1800s. Originally built in the 19th century, Ubud was once merely an area enveloped by dense tropical rainforests. To boost the local economy and manage a turbulent political climate, the ruling king established his residence here and invited artists to travel and explore the area, dedicating his efforts to transforming Ubud into a prominent hub for Indonesian art. Although damaged by a devastating earthquake in 1917, the palace was carefully rebuilt while preserving its signature Hindu-style stone carvings.

Ubud Market (Pasar Ubud)

Located directly opposite Ubud Palace, Ubud Market started as a traditional market for locals. Today, it has evolved into a unique "morning market, afternoon bazaar" experience, where visitors can find an array of handcrafted goods, souvenirs, and local crafts. If you want to experience the authentic local lifestyle, plan your visit between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM to immerse yourself in the exotic, lively morning market scene!

Tegallalang Rice Terrace

Situated just north of central Ubud, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces are approximately a 30-minute drive from Ubud Palace under normal traffic conditions. The stunning landscape features emerald-green rice paddies carved seamlessly along the sweeping hillsides.

In 2012, this breathtaking landscape was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Interestingly, it was recognized not just for its scenic beauty, but for Bali’s unique "Subak" traditional irrigation system. Developed in the 9th century, the Subak system was born out of Bali's distinct geography. Because farming communities rely on a single water source flowing from upstream, households must cooperate closely to ensure a stable food supply. This shared responsibility created a localized, democratic irrigation network that shaped the island's unique landscape. Deeply rooted in Balinese Hinduism, farmers also built water temples at every river intersection to pray for good weather and a pest-free, bountiful harvest. When visiting Tegallalang, be sure to walk down to these intersections to explore the temples and learn about the local spiritual culture.

Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA)

After being captivated by art in his youth, ARMA founder Agung Rai dreamed of establishing a museum. He began by helping local artists sell their paintings and dedicated his life to promoting Balinese artwork. Thanks to his decades of relentless effort, the Agung Rai Museum of Art officially opened in 1996. Inside, visitors can admire a rare collection of both traditional and contemporary Balinese art, and participate in various cultural workshops and hands-on activities. What makes ARMA truly special is the opportunity to see local artists painting live on-site. For travelers staying in Ubud who want to truly appreciate the soul of Balinese art, this museum is an absolute must-visit.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a lush, tranquil jungle oasis nested right in the heart of Ubud. It is home to over 700 long-tailed macaques, which are considered sacred by the local Balinese people.

Spanning over 27 hectares, the sanctuary features dense forest canopies, ancient Hindu temples, and winding rivers. The temples within the forest remain active places of worship for local residents to this day. Beyond the sacred monkeys, the reserve boasts a rich variety of flora and fauna, including several rare and endangered plant species. Committed to environmental conservation and preserving the surrounding natural beauty, the Sacred Monkey Forest is a highly recommended destination for nature lovers and animal enthusiasts alike.

Where to Stay in Ubud Bali?

Where to Stay in Ubud Bali?

Ubud

When people talk about Ubud, they are usually referring to a collection of smaller surrounding villages. Some of the absolute best neighborhoods to base yourself in are actually tucked away in nearby areas like Padang Tegal, Nyuhkuning, Pengosekan, Campuhan, Penestan, Sayan, Sanggingan, Kedewatan, Peliatan, Sambahan, and Tirta Tawar. You don’t need to memorize this list—they will all pop up when you search for accommodations online—but understanding the vibe and location of each district makes choosing a place to stay much easier.

Top Streets to Book in Central Ubud:

  • Jalan Goutama: Becomes pedestrian-only in the evenings, making it a delightfully quiet spot for a stroll or a stay.
  • Jalan Kajeng: A picturesque, tranquil street incredibly close to the action that leads straight into the scenic Kajeng rice field walk.
  • Sari Organik Rice Field Walk: An easy walk from town, this area features magical rice paddy backdrops and unique stays like Dragonfly Village, which stands out for its beautiful, traditional Balinese architecture.
  • Jalan Bisma: Running parallel to Monkey Forest Road, this strip offers a much more serene vibe and hides fantastic upscale options like Bisma Eight.
  • Jalan Jembawan: A peaceful residential alternative running parallel to Jalan Hanoman, home to the exceptional Adiwana Resort Jembawan.

Bali Hotels

5 star

9.3/10Great443 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|16.74km from downtown
During my stay, the room linens weren't changed promptly (even with daily tips), and I encountered some hygiene issues with them. This was eventually resolved through Ctrip, but it did affect my overall experience. Aside from that, the hotel's service and facilities were good. The 'Lazy River' was a hit with the kids, though it was a bit short. The gym was very clean, and while the equipment was mostly fixed machines, it was sufficient for a regular workout. The restaurant didn't have air conditioning (which is common in Bali, and it wasn't too hot), so there were a lot of flies (also a common Bali phenomenon). There was a wide variety of food, and the rose apples were good, but other fruits were just average. Next time I visit, I'll still choose a hotel in the Nusa Dua area (it's safe, has a good environment, and is convenient for dining, shopping, transportation, and hospitals), but it might not necessarily be the Courtyard.
From€ 94
9.3/10Great107 Reviews
Ubud Bali|22.98km from downtown
This is a premium hotel far outside of Ubud center. Be aware you are about 30 minutes from Ubud if you stay here and there really isn't much to do in the immediate area besides stare at the jungle. Staff was outstanding here with frequent greetings by name and remembering you like a Ritz Carlton. Because I enjoy regular outings I actually found the location quite inconvenient as an hour a day would have to be devoted just to getting to and from Ubud. The room I got was enormous and included a dining room, sitting room, bedroom, large bathroom. The in room amenities were great including a free restocking mini bar with snacks (no alcohol) and a large smart TV. The bed was huge, soft, and comfortable. The bathtub was a downside as it was quite small by western standards (not as small as a japanese tub though). I'm not a very big individual at 173cm and I felt it was too narrow and not long enough. Perhaps suitable for petite individuals only. Be aware of that if like me and many Americans you prefer baths over showers. The property is very large and you will likely want to regularly use the phone to request the on site golf cart shuttles to get around it as otherwise you will spend much of your time walking uphill from the rooms to the amenities near the entrance like the restaurant and pool.
From€ 79
9.2/10Great546 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.95km from downtown
I recently stayed at the InterContinental Bali Resort and found the resort’s layout, grounds, and facilities to be excellent. The property is beautifully maintained and provides a pleasant and relaxing environment for guests. Unfortunately, my overall experience was significantly affected by an issue I encountered on the second night of my stay. I was unable to sleep due to a strong and unpleasant smell coming from the pillows and bedding. The odor was similar to that of a room that had been left unused for an extended period. At approximately 3:40 a.m., I contacted the hotel for assistance. While the staff responded promptly and replaced the pillows, I was informed that the smell was “normal,” which I found disappointing and concerning. The following day, I reported the matter to the receptionist, who kindly apologized for the inconvenience. Regrettably, after this experience, I developed a severe cold and fever, which negatively affected the remainder of my stay. While I appreciate the apology and acknowledge the many positive aspects of the resort, I believe greater attention should be given to room freshness, bedding quality, and the handling of guest concerns, particularly when they impact a guest’s comfort and well-being. I hope this feedback will be taken constructively and help improve the experience for future guests.
From€ 176
9.3/10Great550 Reviews
Uluwatu Bali|19.37km from downtown
The hotel is located on a hill, quite high up, so you definitely need a car to get around. There's one road that's in terrible condition – avoid it at all costs. The hotel is a bit older, so the rooms aren't brand new, but they are comfortable enough. The bathroom is as spacious as the bedroom, which is great. Breakfast was plentiful but not particularly tasty (a common issue in Bali). I bought a voucher for 800 RMB including breakfast for two during a promotion, and using it in June made it a really good deal. However, if it were 1000 RMB per night, I think there would be better options available.
From€ 150
9.4/10Amazing562 Reviews
Ubud Bali|16km from downtown
Very beautiful hotel. The food was delicious, and the hygiene was excellent. The service was also very good and polite. The common areas are lovely, and I even got a discount on a massage. Pison is right next door, and the location is fantastic, right next to the Monkey Forest.
From€ 126

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Business travel

8.1/10Very Good413 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|6.6km from downtown
Pleasant experience with this hotel but never stay long enough to give valuable feedback. However, from check-in to check-out, it was a seamless experience. Staffs are very nice. Upon entering the room, the taps, shower head, and toilet flush are very rusty & mouldy.. We requested for a change but water output was not better.. It was splashing in all directions, making washing up not a very pleasant experience. But you pay for what you get which was reasonable as long as water is clean.
From€ 12
8.9/10Very Good406 Reviews
Sanur Bali|7.01km from downtown
Prama Sanur Beach Bali is an established resort offering great value for money. Its biggest draw is the private beachfront, perfect for catching stunning sunrises, cycling, and enjoying water sports right from the hotel. The pool is large and surrounded by lush greenery. However, since the hotel has been around for a while, the rooms and bathrooms show their age. Overall, it's a good choice for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize a wide range of facilities and relaxing sea views, and aren't overly particular about the newest amenities.
From€ 80
8.3/10Very Good323 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.42km from downtown
Really nice hotel, excellent value. I was only there for 1 night, but wish it was longer. Great location nearby the airport and plenty around the local area. Room was very spacious and well equipped. The stand out was the food from the room service, which was very inexpensive, and was exceptional (pictured), would highly recommend. Staff all polite and friendly.
From€ 15
9/10Great737 Reviews
Kuta Bali|9.39km from downtown
We stayed at the hotel for 2 days and found no drawbacks during that time. Our room was far from the pool with a beautiful garden view, so it was quite quiet. In the mornings, we could hear staff starting their work from outside. The bathroom was large. The room was clean, but there were small stains on the bed linen. There are 2 pools nearby, one of which is 2m deep. Noisy groups tend to gather at the poolside bar, which dampens the relaxing atmosphere. It's about a 5-minute walk to the beach. I recommend this hotel if you're staying for no longer than 5 days.
From€ 38
8.8/10Very Good398 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|6.77km from downtown
We stayed at D’prima Hotel Seminyak for 3 nights during a shopping-focused trip, and the location was exactly what we needed — right in the center of Seminyak with easy access to shops, cafes, and everything within walking distance. The room was spacious with a very large, comfortable bed, which made it easy to relax after long days out. The hotel is not new and you can notice this in details like the bathroom fixtures and some general wear, but everything was clean and overall comfortable. For the price, it’s a solid budget-friendly option in a great area, especially if you plan to spend most of your time exploring rather than staying at the hotel. If you’re looking for a simple, well-located place to sleep while enjoying Seminyak, this is a good choice.
From€ 19

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Breakfast

8.9/10Very Good351 Reviews
Ubud Bali|21.48km from downtown
The cliffside infinity pool offers stunning views of the rainforest terraces and valleys, with breathtaking sunrises and sunsets – perfect for incredible photos. Enjoy ultimate privacy in a secluded rainforest villa, quiet and peaceful, far from the hustle and bustle of Ubud. The butler service is attentive, there's a 24-hour front desk, free city shuttle, professional spa, and the floating breakfast is amazing. The rooms are spacious, with Zen-inspired Balinese decor, clean, tidy, and have excellent terrace views. Forest yoga and rice field trekking provide a healing and relaxing experience, making it ideal for a romantic honeymoon. Be aware of mosquitoes and geckos: it's inevitable in a rainforest villa, and you might occasionally find small lizards indoors, so definitely come prepared with mosquito repellent.
From€ 69
8.9/10Very Good538 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.1km from downtown
Let's start with the positives: this hotel boasts a fantastic pool with sea views and stunning sunsets. The location is great, just a 5-minute walk to the beach. It's also a quick 15-minute taxi ride to the airport. Breakfasts are good, and the coffee is tasty. And that's pretty much where the good stuff ends. Now for the negatives: the rooms are very old and in desperate need of renovation. They're also dirty, with stains everywhere. There are no balconies, and the windows don't open. Nothing dries in the room, and due to poor ventilation, clothes actually get damp overnight. The soundproofing is terrible; you can hear everyone yelling in the hallway. The air conditioning units hum very loudly; our first night was awful because, in addition to the humming, there was also vibration – it was impossible to sleep. Even though we requested a quiet room, we were told it *was* quiet. They did change our room to a junior suite, which was clean and well-renovated. The AC unit still hummed in that one, but it was less noticeable due to the room's larger size. Toothbrushes, cotton swabs, and shower caps are only provided once upon check-in and are not replaced. If you're looking for a European feel rather than something akin to Anapa, do not choose this hotel. Most guests here are Russians on tour packages. I would only recommend this hotel for a one or two-night stay before a flight.
From€ 39
9.5/10Amazing1140 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|19.15km from downtown
This is one of the most famous hotels recently, so I had to come and experience it! The hotel is built on a cliff, and the entire lobby design is simply breathtaking – it feels grand and magnificent. The beach is also beautiful. In the evening, when the tide went out, we took the kids crab hunting, and they had so many wonderful memories! The only slight drawback was the breakfast flow; for such a large number of rooms, the breakfast area felt a bit small, which was a shame. A big thank you to Trip.com for getting us such a great room type on the day we booked!
From€ 389
8.7/10Very Good174 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14km from downtown
This hotel is a very good choice 👍🏼 I am a little picky, but here’s my review: Pros: ✅ No damp smell, well ventilated ( I was worried about this) ✅ No insects in the room. There might be some geckos 🦎 (which is normal and expected) but I didn’t see any. ✅ Very clean in general ✅ Comfortable bed ✅ The service is amazing ✅ The staff is very friendly and helpful ✅ The breakfast is very good, there are plenty of choices. ✅ Their restaurant is also very good, in case you don’t want to go out of the resort. ✅ The vibe at the beach is nice and if you like water sports it is also good. ✅ The pool is huge and very nice ✅ Reasonable price (but it will depend on the season and demand) Cons: 😑 Sound proof can be better, one can hear everyone from the pool (the sound enters from the main door) 😑 The beach is not the best for swimming, and is a bit dirty in general (not the hotel’s fault) 😑 The gym can be better as there are only 3 machines (spinning, treadmill and elliptical) the dumbbells are fine ✅😄 Overall, recommended! I was happy with my stay at this hotel! It is good to give it a try!
From€ 118
9.1/10Great181 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|15.75km from downtown
Here’s a more natural and polished version of your review: We love Mövenpick Hotels, even though we don’t have kids yet. If you’re looking for a family-friendly retreat with plenty of fun activities for children and an amazing pool experience, this is the perfect hotel. The breakfast was delicious, and the hotel provides a complimentary buggy to the beach every hour. Alternatively, it’s only a 5–10 minute walk. Our only disappointment was the Chocolate Hour, which is a signature experience at Mövenpick Hotels. Unfortunately, it was the least impressive Chocolate Hour we’ve experienced compared to other Mövenpick properties. Everything else was excellent, and we had a wonderful stay.
From€ 117

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How to Get to Ubud Bali: Transport & Getting Around

How to Get to Ubud Bali: Transport & Getting Around

gray concrete statue Via Unsplash (by Paolo Nicolello)

How to Get to Ubud Bali

Ubud is located in the uplands of Bali, roughly 1.5 to 2.5 hours away from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) or popular southern beach towns (Seminyak, Canggu, Kuta), depending on traffic.

1. Private Car Charter / Private Driver (Most Recommended)

Hiring a private car with a driver is the most seamless and stress-free way to reach Ubud, especially if you have luggage.

  • Cost: Approximately $40 to $60 AUD (400,000 to 600,000 IDR) for a full-day charter or a direct airport transfer.
  • Best for: Families, couples, or anyone arriving late at night. You can book these easily on platforms like Trip.com or Klook ahead of time, or arrange one directly through your hotel.

2. Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab & Gojek)

Ride-hailing is incredibly popular and cheap in Bali. You can book a private car via the Grab or Gojek apps.

  • Cost: Around $25 to $35 AUD from the airport to Ubud.
  • Pro-Tip: If you are leaving from Ngurah Rai Airport, Grab has an official lounge at the international arrivals terminal where you can book and wait for your ride comfortably.

3. Tourist Shuttle Buses (Perama Tour)

If you are a solo traveler looking to save money, shared shuttle buses are a reliable alternative.

  • Cost: Around $10 to $15 AUD per person.
  • How it works: Perama Tour operates scheduled buses connecting Kuta, Sanur, and the airport to central Ubud. You will be dropped off at their central Ubud terminal, from where you can walk or catch a local ride to your hotel.

How to Get Around Ubud Bali

What we call "Ubud" is actually a collection of smaller surrounding villages and districts (like Padang Tegal, Nyuhkuning, Pengosekan, or Sayan). Depending on where you choose to stay, your transport needs will vary.

Scooter Rental (Best for Solo Travelers & Couples)

Renting a scooter gives you ultimate freedom to beat the traffic and explore outer attractions like the Tegallalang Rice Terraces.

  • Cost: Roughly $7 to $12 AUD per day (70,000 to 120,000 IDR).
  • Important: Only rent a scooter if you are an experienced rider. You must wear a helmet, carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a motorcycle endorsement, and ensure your travel insurance covers scooter accidents.

Local Ride-Hailing (Grab/Gojek Scooter Taxis)

If you don't want to drive a scooter yourself, you can use Grab or Gojek to hail a scooter taxi (GrabBike/GoRide).

  • Cost: Incredibly cheap, usually only $1 to $3 AUD for short trips around town.
  • Note on the "Ubud Taxi Taxi Monopoly": In certain parts of central Ubud and outside major attractions (like the Sacred Monkey Forest), local taxi cooperatives ban ride-hailing apps from picking up passengers to protect local drivers. You can always be dropped off anywhere by a Grab, but to catch one out, you may need to walk a few minutes away from the main exclusion zones.
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Zora

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Hi, I am Zora from Shanghai, I've explored many spots across China, and also taken me further abroad including Australia, Malaysia, Finland and so on. For me, travel is about connecting deeply with each place. As a true travel enthusiast, I love diving deep into all the travel hacks, from booking secrets and ride-hailing discounts to travel promotions. I'm here to share every trick I know, guaranteed to help you save big and travel smart. Let's explore the world cleverly together!

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