Top Things to Do in Ubud: Best Activities & Must-Sees
If you’re in Bali or about to touch down, chances are Ubud has already popped up on your radar. This inland gem is the island’s cultural heartbeat—a place where temples, rice paddies, and local life blend together at a wonderfully relaxed pace.
Here’s our guide to the best things to see and do in Ubud, so you’ll know exactly where to start and won’t miss out on any of the highlights.
In this Trip.com article, you’ll discover the best things to see in Ubud, from the town centre to the hidden gems just a short journey away.
📅 What to Do in Ubud Based on Your Stay
The beauty of Ubud is that it adapts perfectly to however much time you have.
Whether you’re racing against the clock or have time to take things slow, there’s always a plan that fits perfectly. The key is knowing how to prioritise and not trying to do it all in one go.
To give you an idea, here’s a summary based on the length of your trip to Ubud:
⏳ Duration | 💑 Couples | 👨👩👧 Family | 🧑🤝🧑 Friends | 🧍 Solo travel |
1 day | Ubud Centre, Monkey Forest, and a stroll through the nearby rice paddies | Ubud Palace, local market, and Monkey Forest | Ubud town centre, cafés and viewpoints | City centre temples, markets, and a leisurely stroll |
2–3 days | Temples, Ubud Kajeng Rice Fields Walk & Spa | Monkey Forest, rice paddies and nearby villages | Nearby waterfalls, rice paddies and sunset | Yoga, temples and walking trails |
4–5 days | Ubud + waterfall and village tours | Ubud and its surroundings: nature and culture | Excursions, viewpoints and local life | Retreats, nature and slow-paced exploration |
1 week | Ubud, North Bali and city escapes | Based in Ubud with daily departures | A journey through waterfalls, volcanoes and rice paddies | Ubud as a base for exploring inland Bali |
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Best Things to Do in Ubud
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📍 Must-Visit Areas in Ubud
Of course, when you first arrive, it’s only natural to wonder about the different neighbourhoods. The thing is, Ubud doesn’t quite work like that.
There aren't any official districts as such here; instead, areas are organised by their vibe, what's nearby, and the kind of experience you're in the mood for.
And that’s where it’s worth knowing the difference, because the centre of Ubud is a world away from exploring the more tranquil areas of the town.
Ubud Centre
To start with, the city centre is the liveliest and most convenient spot. It’s a real hub for restaurants, cafes, little shops, yoga studios, and the heart of everyday life. Essentially, you can just step out onto the street and find plenty to do without even having to think about it!
Honestly, it’s ideal if you’re short on time or prefer exploring on foot, as almost everything is within easy reach. Mind you, we won’t lie – it’s the busiest area, especially mid-morning and at sunset.
📌 Tip: Get up a little earlier and head out for a stroll when the atmosphere is much more peaceful.
Ubud Palace and Art Market Area
This is the cultural heart of Ubud. The Royal Palace, the traditional market, and several temples set the pace of the area. The truth is, it’s impossible to visit Ubud without ending up here, even if you’re just passing through.
What's more, this is one of the most historic areas, with the palace still serving as the residence for the local royal family. As evening falls, prepare to be enchanted by traditional dance performances! And here's a little insider tip: the market truly transforms throughout the day. In the mornings, it's a vibrant local affair, offering an authentic peek into daily life, while come afternoon, it shifts to cater more to curious travellers.
Saraswati Temple Area
As if that weren't enough, just a stone's throw from the centre you'll find a much more peaceful area. Saraswati Temple, with its lotus pond, is one of those spots where you'll really want to slow down the pace.
Here, you’ll find small museums, galleries, and paths leading out into the rice paddies. To put it simply, it’s the perfect area if you enjoy peaceful walks and want to discover Ubud at a slower pace.
💡 Fun fact: many of Ubud's most iconic photos are taken at this temple, especially at sunset.
South of Ubud (Goa Gajah area)
And finally, South Ubud is a whole different story. It’s greener, more open, and far less bustling. It’s all about using it as a base to explore the surrounding area – you know, temples, waterfalls, and nearby villages.
The renowned Goa Gajah temple is located in this area, and you'll often find accommodation nestled in nature. Just keep in mind that it’s best to get around by scooter or car here, as not everything is within easy reach.
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Our Top Picks
5 star
Great106 Reviews
Ubud Bali|22.98km from city centre
Beautiful place. Recommended for families. A good place to spend the day. The view is awsome.FromNZD 118
Very Good122 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|7.64km from city centre
The hotel is a little dated, but the rooms are comfortable. Some amenities, such as hair dryers, were missing or not working. On the positive side, the location is great, the property is very clean, and we enjoyed the rooftop swimming pool. The hotel kindly offered us concessions for the in-house massage service, but unfortunately, they were fully booked and mentioned staff shortages. We also found it quite difficult to reach them—the provided phone number didn’t connect, even the receptionist couldn’t get through, and when we walked over directly, we still had no luck. Overall, a mixed experience with some positives, but areas for improvement.FromNZD 61
Great520 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.95km from city centre
Intercontinental Bali Resort is always consistently great. Our short stay was a delight at this property, Garden view room was spacious, quiet and had a very comfortable bed with Balinese accents fulfilling the room. Breakfast restaurant is gorgeous with such a large array of fresh food offerings. Pool and superbly maintained grounds are a magnificent attribute for this well established property, though very busy with occupancy, manages well. It is the staff of IC Bali Resort that are always so welcoming, friendly, professional and impeccably groomed, always such delightful interactions with all and very helpful in our time of need when we accidentally were locked out on our balcony, such speedy rectification from staff. A solid 10/10 and look forward to a longer stay next visit.FromNZD 259
Amazing534 Reviews
Ubud Bali|16km from city centre
Adorable hotel, really lovely setting, plush gardens, two nice pools, although no pool side service available, not a big deal as pool was just metres from my room. Free daily soft drink mini bar. Huge bed, comfortable size room with all the necessities. Didn’t have breakfast but did order room service, it was good and a reasonable price. Good size supermarket a couple of doors down, many restaurants and shops outside, close to monkey forest, kekak dance place, yoga barn, and the museum/palace are about 20 mins walk. Solo traveller, felt safe.FromNZD 196
Great292 Reviews
Ubud Bali|18.62km from city centre
I had a wonderful stay at Element by Westin Bali Ubud, rating it a solid 4 out of 5 stars for its serene, eco-friendly atmosphere that serves as a perfect sanctuary away from the busy town center. The rooms are spacious and pristine, featuring the incredibly comfortable Westin Heavenly Bed and thoughtful touches like in-room filtered water taps to reduce plastic use. I particularly enjoyed the wellness focus, including the gym and swimming pools, though the location is about a 15-minute drive from central Ubud, meaning you are heavily reliant on the taxis to access major markets and cafes. While the on-site dining offers great healthy options, the menu felt a bit limited after a few days; however, if you prioritize sleep quality and modern comfort over being right in the middle of the action, this is a fantastic value-for-money retreat.FromNZD 182
Great293 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.22km from city centre
Amazing stay in Discovery Kartika plaza .. rooms are great and very big , non humid and no mold smell , great bed too .. staff is very attentive and caring and they make sure the guests are happy! Breakfast has a lot variety, (love the pastry) and all the restaurants have great food .. my favorite was Sucobe at the beach where I spend a lot of time .. they have 5 days a week bbq dinners at the beach with amazing show that is really something special !!! Discovery mall is next door great for purchasing some gifts, so the location is very convenient - Will be back !!!FromNZD 108
Business travel
Very Good391 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|6.6km from city centre
”ada harga, ada kualitas” watch out for these things before booking a room
first of all the hotel itself is just okay at best. location wise, it is great, there is a convenience store nearby and parking was always available when i came. staff was kind, responsive, and hospitable. the lift wasn't functioning properly at times, but fortunately i wasn't met with any significant troubles. the room size is quite spacious, air conditioning was good, there was hot water available at all times, towels were always clean and changed. other bathroom amenities only included toothbrush and toothpaste. the bed was comfortable and the room was well lit with yellow-coloured small lights (i hate large overhead white fluorescent lights, so this was very pleasing)
i had several issues with the hotel.
1. the walls are quite thin, you could always hear conversations in the hallway and people coming in and out of their rooms all the time. you could mistake a door knock of your neighbours as yours.
2. random stains on the bedsheets
3. the wifi is very slow and internet is really bad (i use XL), for someone who is working remotely, this was quite frustrating
4. the hairdryer they provide doesn't function as good as i needed it to be. there was barely any hot air coming out of it and the air strength is quite weak. i recommend bringing your own hairdryer if you have long hair and prefer drying your hair quickly
5. room door uses a lock system which works. however the manual lock that is attached to it does not. as someone who likes extra security, this was a bit frustrating but at least the main smart lock works properly
despite me listing down multiple issues, this was only a personal experience of mine. the quality of the hotel matches up with its price. nevertheless my stay was safe and i had a good stay.FromNZD 21
Very Good389 Reviews
Sanur Bali|7.01km from city centre
I recently stayed at the Prama Hotel and overall had a pleasant experience, though there are a few points worth mentioning. The hotel and rooms are definitely showing their age, but everything was clean and well maintained. The location is very convenient, and I especially appreciated the well-equipped gym as well as the beach and pool area, which were real highlights.
However, in my opinion, the hotel does not fully meet the standard of a true 5‑star property, even though it is advertised as such on Trip. The beds felt worn out and could really use an upgrade.
All in all, it’s a good hotel with solid amenities, but it falls short of genuine 5‑star quality.FromNZD 109
Very Good315 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.42km from city centre
I recently had the pleasure of staying at this hotel, and overall, it was a very satisfying experience.
The room was clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed, with comfortable bedding and all essential amenities. I particularly appreciated the attention to detail in housekeeping, which contributed to a relaxing and comfortable stay.
The hotel’s facilities were also impressive. The common areas were tidy and inviting, and the dining options offered a good variety of meals, all prepared to a high standard. The location was another major advantage, with convenient access to nearby attractions, restaurants, and transport options.
While my stay was largely positive, there is some room for improvement in response time to service requests during peak hours. However, this did not significantly affect the overall experience.
In summary, I would highly recommend this hotel to both business and leisure travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and quality service. I would gladly stay here again in the future.FromNZD 24
Very Good718 Reviews
Kuta Bali|9.39km from city centre
Pros:
Fantastic location! Just a left turn out of the hotel brings you to a bustling area with everything you could need. Kuta Beach is only a 5-10 minute walk away.
The service was excellent. The staff were generally patient and very accommodating.
There's a spa right at the entrance – it was very relaxing and reasonably priced.
They offer packed breakfasts, which was a lifesaver. I ordered it the night before, and they had a huge, delicious box ready for me to take at 6 AM.
Cons:
1. The hotel's gate and lobby are separated by an underground parking lot. You either have to walk down into the garage and then back up, or go through a short corridor with small shops. It's inconvenient and not very aesthetically pleasing.
2. Definitely avoid booking their cheapest room. They've renovated, but only half of the rooms. The cheapest ones are unrenovated and face the street.
3. The hairdryer is incredibly weak; it took over ten minutes to even partially dry my hair.
4. The overall room quality is comparable to a budget chain hotel (like a 2-3 star hotel in China). The towels were a bit gray, though the water filter wasn't yellow. If you don't focus on small details, it's livable.
5. Check-out is at 11:00 AM! This is earlier than most hotels, and they really will rush you if you're not out on time.FromNZD 53
Very Good524 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|7.98km from city centre
Stay dates: May 2026 (3 nights)
Traveled with: Couple
Purpose of trip: Leisure
Room type booked: Double Room with Balcony (5th floor
)
1. Location & Accessibility
Excellent location. Right on a main street with countless bars and restaurants nearby. Very convenient for walking around the area. It is a busy street, but every street here is busy, so it’s expected. We felt very safe throughout our stay. Motorbike parking available and 24-hour reception.
2. Check-in / Check-out Experience
Smooth and efficient for both check-in and check-out. Staff were friendly and helpful — they assisted us with a SIM card issue at reception.
3. Room Quality & Comfort
The room was bright, airy, and very clean. We had a balcony on the 5th floor (top floor) overlooking the pool, which had a beautiful view. Housekeeping was excellent — they made up the room every day. Strong air conditioning, comfortable bed, and good lighting.
4. Bathroom
Really clean and well-maintained. Toiletries were provided and water bottles were replenished daily.
5. Staff & Service
Very friendly and helpful staff. Quick response at reception and good daily housekeeping.
6. Facilities & Amenities
The pool was really nice and well-kept. Fast and reliable Wi-Fi. We didn’t try breakfast. Motorbike parking and 24-hour reception were useful.
7. Value for Money
Really good value for money. We got a clean, bright room with a great pool-view balcony in a prime location at a fair price. No complaints.
8. Final Thoughts & Recommendation
I would definitely stay here again and recommend it to couples or anyone looking for a convenient, comfortable base with a nice pool. Great spot if you want to be close to restaurants and nightlife.FromNZD 32
Very Good295 Reviews
Legian Bali|8.25km from city centre
I booked hotel in the last minutes but recieved the warm welcome neitherless. It was connected 2 rooms for family of 4. Breakfast are good & coffee is even better :-)
Convenient shop is opposite, eateries are all around, 10 mins walk to Legian beach.
The staffs are friendly & professional. There is live music on Sat night too.
Its a very remarkable stay with the hotel.FromNZD 22
Family friendly
Very Good184 Reviews
Kuta Bali|8.72km from city centre
Good location, walking distance to Beachwalk shopping centre and Kuta beach. Restaurants/bars around the area, not too noisy. Large room with pool view. Enjoyed the pool. Thanks for the birthday surprise. Hot water supply is stable with good water pressure. Breakfast is tasty with a good variety .FromNZD 40
Very Good470 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.53km from city centre
I initially booked Bintang Kuta Hotel for a few nights because of its proximity to Kuta Market and Kuta Beach. Since the stay turned out to be a pleasant experience, I decided to extend my stay for another three nights. The location is excellent—very close to the beach and right next to the Bintang Beach Resort. Guests also get access to the Bintang Beach Resort’s beachfront restaurant, which is a nice added benefit. The complimentary breakfast was quite good, with a wide variety of food options. However, it would be even better if there were more vegetarian choices available. Overall, it was a comfortable and enjoyable stay, mainly due to the great location and overall experience.FromNZD 48
Great783 Reviews
Kuta Bali|11km from city centre
Hardly 5 mins to airport , free airport drop was provided by the hotel that was a pleasant surprise , breakfast was good ,Rooms were clean . Had all amenities . Had a pleasant one night stay .FromNZD 69
Great506 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.1km from city centre
I stayed here 4D3N with friends Service were Execelent Facilities great. Gym, swimming pool all located in 6 floor They provide standard amenities and various breakfast. The staff were nice and helpfull. They help and support me to prepare Birthday decoration for my friend. Thankyou. Really appreciated!FromNZD 55
Amazing1103 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|19.15km from city centre
We loved every moment and every corner of this place. The unique design with long stairways connecting the ground floor to the 15th-floor lobby is truly amazing—you really have to see it with your own eyes and try walking the stairs yourself. Breakfast is served in three different venues, giving you the freedom to choose the atmosphere you prefer each morning. The beach is quiet and very private, perfect for a relaxing getaway. We were lucky to receive a room upgrade to a pool-access room at the back of the property, which was an amazing surprise. Visiting in low season (January) is ideal—not too crowded, yet the hotel still feels lively. We also highly recommend Koral, the aquarium restaurant, and Bai Yan Chinese hotpot, which is excellent if you enjoy spicy food.FromNZD 576
Very Good386 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.64km from city centre
Bintang Bali Resort-from the moment I stepped inside, the resort's staff were very helpful and super friendly. I was welcomed with warm smiles, a fruity drink and genuine hospitality. My room was immaculate, spacious and designed for comfort with a great view. In addition to that being said, I would recommend this resort for its location, marvelous pool, excellent buffet breakfast etc. And special thanks to Ms. Ratif, a lobby receptionist, for all her recommendations and help with extending my stay. I will be retuning again.FromNZD 108
Breakfast
Very Good333 Reviews
Ubud Bali|21.48km from city centre
We stayed at Kenran Resort Ubud by Soscomma and had a truly peaceful experience. Even though it was rainy during our stay, the quiet mountain setting made it feel even more calm and serene. The atmosphere was perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature.
The breakfast and tea were absolutely delicious, and everything felt fresh and thoughtfully prepared. A wonderful place to unwind and recharge in Ubud. 🌿✨FromNZD 128
Great524 Reviews
Uluwatu Bali|19.37km from city centre
A true home away from home. We were upgraded to a larger room, and our luggage was delivered directly. The staff were all very polite.
Room service was very responsive, and we could even choose our pillows. The room was clean, well-equipped, and had a great view.
There were many live cooking stations at breakfast, and the food was brought to our table.
Regarding the previously reported issue of trees being cut down on the east side of the hotel, new vegetation has grown in, and it no longer impacts the view. (See attached photos for reference.)FromNZD 244
Very Good176 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14km from city centre
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.FromNZD 175
61 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14.61km from city centre
Compared to 2018, this hotel is in a much different situation. Maybe because of the pandemic, this hotel is just trying to survive. Almost every corner of the hotel requires building repairs. It can also be seen that many rooms are out of order.
The amenities in the room are also like a 3 star hotel, only the soap and shampoo look good.
The facilities themselves are quite good for the price.
Just for standard breakfast.
Even though it is five stars, because it is poorly maintained, it feels like a lower class hotel.FromNZD 47
Very Good137 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14.56km from city centre
Hotel was nice and cleaned.
Room was good. We had Pool and Garden view.
Toilet was small.
and the water not coming with the full pressure.
Bedsheets, Towel and quilt cover was Dirty, we had to call someone at night to change it.
AC was not working well. we had to call someone to fix that. even after that it was not working well.
Staff was friendly and cooperative.FromNZD 28
Very Good189 Reviews
Kuta Bali|8.5km from city centre
This hotel was fantastic! They even prepared a honeymoon cake and decorations for us, which was such a lovely surprise. Honestly, it's the best value-for-money hotel I've ever stayed in. Highly recommend it! The location is superb, with plenty of massage places right outside. Even though it was just a quick stopover, I absolutely have to give it a great review. Next time, I'll bring my family and stay for a few more days.FromNZD 111
Gym
Very Good235 Reviews
Bali|2.55km from city centre
I had a pleasant stay at Aston Denpasar Hotel & Convention Center and would happily recommend it to others visiting Denpasar. The hotel is centrally located, making it a great base for both business and leisure activities. The staff were exceptionally friendly and professional, always ready to assist with a smile. My room was spacious, clean, and comfortable, with all the essential amenities provided. I especially enjoyed the breakfast buffet, which offered a generous variety of both local and international dishes. The hotel’s facilities, including the swimming pool and meeting rooms, were well-maintained and added to the overall experience. For the price, Aston Denpasar offers great value and a welcoming atmosphere. I look forward to staying here again on my next trip to Bali.FromNZD 37
Great326 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|7.13km from city centre
Had a lovely stay. Staff helpful. Though only realised on day before departure there was a free shuttle to Seminyak village. Hotel is near to lots of restaurants and spas. Its a 30 min walk to Seminyak square and village. Had pur clothes laundered at the hotel who did a good job and is cheaper than the places outside. Buffet breakfast was good. Room was a good size.FromNZD 43
Great623 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|17.07km from city centre
I recently stayed at Ayana resort in Bali, and it was an unforgettable experience. The resort’s private beach provided a serene and exclusive escape, allowing me to relax without crowds. The breathtaking seaside views were simply mesmerizing, especially during sunrise and sunset—truly picture-perfect moments! The rooms were incredibly spacious, beautifully designed, and well-maintained, making my stay exceptionally comfortable. Waking up to the sound of the waves was a dream. The resort’s overall ambiance was peaceful and luxurious, perfect for a relaxing getaway. The staff were warm, attentive, and went above and beyond to ensure a fantastic stay. Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat or a tranquil vacation, I highly recommend Ayana resort. I can’t wait to return!FromNZD 511
Very Good382 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|6.77km from city centre
this hotel is very budget and better than some five-star hotels, very clean room, super view from the window, friendly staff, nice pool. There are many cafes and shops nearby. I really liked the location of the air conditioner, it does not blow on your head and there is no dampness in the room, this is a real salvation in Bali! Breakfasts are normal, for such a price I would even say excellent!FromNZD 28
Great82 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|7.71km from city centre
Loved this hotel from the moment we arrived. Looked good and pools so inviting. So much so visited twice and extended our stay. Fully equipped clean Rooms and the beds were so comfy. Hard and soft pillows, cool linen bedding. Reasonably priced food and drink. Restaurant manager was one the main reasons for our return. He went out of his way to make everyone feel special everyday and remembered our names. Sorry we did not get a chance to say goodbye as he was on hol. The attentive smiling fun staff made each day memorable. We liked both the Premier rooms and the soundproof Delux R121 with terrace. All rooms had a pool view, great layout. Swim up bar was the focal point, plenty comfy sunbeds. Free buggy dropped you ar the beach or along the strip. Plenty shops and restaurants within walking distance.FromNZD 125
Amazing108 Reviews
Ubud Bali|26.57km from city centre
Customer service is impeccable. You are treated like royalty the moment you step into the Lobby. Welcome ceremony was an enlightening experience for us. The room and the pools are top tier. Five star all around.FromNZD 528
⭐ Top 5 Activities and Landmarks in Ubud
There’s just something special about Ubud. Culture, nature, and well-being blend together so naturally that everything just clicks. The thing is, with so many options, it’s worth focusing on the sights in Ubud that are truly worthwhile, rather than just taking a stab in the dark.
Here are five must-sees to help you get to grips with what to see and do in Ubud, completely hassle-free.
- 🌴 Nusa Penida: Day Trip, Wild Beaches and Viewpoints
- 💦 Waterbom Bali: The ideal water park for families
- 🏯 Ubud Palace: Historic palace and traditional dances
- 🐒 Monkey Forest: A sacred forest with temples and monkeys
- 💆 Bali Spa: Balinese massages and ultimate well-being
Nusa Penida
And of course, even though it’s not in Ubud town itself, Nusa Penida is one of the star excursions you can take from here. You’ll set off early, hop on a boat, and be greeted by dramatic cliffs, wild beaches, and viewpoints that look like they’re from another planet.
To be honest, it’s a pretty intense day – there’s no denying it! That said, it’s best to come prepared: comfortable trainers, water, a bit of cash, and a good dose of patience for the roads.
Penida Island
4.4/5
386 Reviews
Tickets can be picked up an hour or less before boarding. I took the boat ride on the Golden Mountain. Don't sit in the front unless you want to take an ocean shower. The boat wasn't too rough, and the ride offered views of Mount Agung and other nearby volcanoes.NZD 9
Waterbom Bali, Indonesia
If you're travelling with the family or fancy something a bit different, Waterbom Bali is a fantastic option. It's located in the Kuta area but is easy to reach from Ubud, making it the perfect way to beat the heat.
Plus, it’s not your typical run-down water park. It’s brilliantly organised, with attractions for both adults and kids, lush green spaces, and excellent facilities.
📌 Top tip: book your tickets online and bring some waterproof sunscreen.
Waterbom Bali
4.8/5
217 Reviews
We had a great day at Waterbom as first time visitors. The exchange of the voucher was quick and easy. The rides were fun and varied and the majority of wait time was very good. The cashless band is useful if you know roughly how much you might spend. Food was good at the cafe near the Flow rider. We could have stayed longer but had to depart for our flight. Arrived around 10am left about 3pm. We didn’t have a cabana but we wouldn’t have been in there anyway, I’d not bother if everyone in your group is riding the slides.NZD 49
Ubud Palace
Ubud Palace is one of those captivating spots you're simply destined to discover! It's nestled right in the heart of the city and offers a truly fascinating glimpse into Ubud's vibrant cultural heart.
By day, you can wander through the courtyards at your leisure, while in the evening, they often host traditional Balinese dance performances.
It’s not all perfect, of course; it can get quite crowded, but it’s still well worth a visit.
Ubud Palace
4.4/5
486 Reviews
A wonderful show, gorgeous costumes. It's best to arrive early, as there are no assigned seats. There's a separate entrance for tickets purchased online.NZD 9
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Let’s get one thing straight: the Monkey Forest isn’t just a place to see monkeys. It’s a sacred forest with temples, paths, and a truly special atmosphere.
Just a heads-up: keep your sunglasses, food and any loose items tucked away, as the macaques are quick and curious! Other than that, it’s a lovely stroll and easy to combine with other sights in the city centre.
🐒 You won't find many different species at Ubud's Monkey Forest, but there is one very specific and omnipresent resident that you'll see everywhere.
- Long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis), also known as the crab-eating macaque or the Balinese macaque.
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
4.4/5
313 Reviews
A beautiful area with lots of playful monkeys. A great place for a walk on a hot day. Periodically, the park's main stage hosts traditional shows with beautiful music and dancing.NZD 11
Bali Spa
And after a long day, it’s time to wind down. A spa treatment in Ubud is practically a must. Balinese massages, natural oils, and tranquil surroundings will leave you feeling completely rejuvenated.
The key is choosing the right spot for your plans: you’ll find simple spas in the city centre and more comprehensive retreats in the heart of nature, with stunning views of the jungle or rice paddies.
💆 Local tip: booking for the late afternoon is a brilliant move.
🌿 Ubud, the Cultural and Spiritual Heart of Bali
Of course, whenever Ubud is mentioned, the same themes always come up: culture, art, and spirituality. And it’s not just a random cliché; the truth is, everything here simply moves at a different pace.
Temples on every corner, morning flower offerings, almost impromptu ceremonies, and a constant sense that everyday life and the sacred coexist seamlessly.
Let’s face it, that’s exactly what makes Ubud so different from other parts of Bali.
🛕 Temples and traditions in Ubud
To start with, temples aren't just places to visit; they're a part of everyday life. Pura Taman Saraswati, Tirta Empul, or tiny family shrines pop up when you least expect them. That’s exactly when you should slow down and take a look around. After all, it’s not about ticking sights off a list, but about truly understanding what’s going on.
What’s more, you’ll often come across processions, gamelan music, or rituals that aren't staged for tourists, but which you can observe with respect.
🔔 Top tip: always keep a sarong or wrap in your backpack, as you might need it to enter a temple unexpectedly.
☀️ Best Time to Visit Ubud
And of course, with Bali being a tropical island, the weather really sets the pace of your trip. You won't find the usual four seasons here; instead, there are two very distinct ones: the dry and the wet.
The thing is, each one has its own special charm, so it’s not just about the weather; it also depends on what you’ve got in mind.
Take a look at the seasons in Bali to give you an idea:
🌴 Season | 🌦️ Weather | 📝 Tips | 🎒 Recommended activities |
Dry season (April–October) | Sunny days, moderate humidity, and very little rain. | It’s the most popular time of year, so be sure to book in advance. | Strolls through Ubud town centre, Tegalalang rice terraces, temple excursions, and routes around the surrounding area |
Wet season (November–March) | Constant heat and heavy but brief showers | Plus, there are fewer tourists and better prices. Mind you, make sure to pack a raincoat and some non-slip shoes! | Spas, yoga classes, local markets, museums and cultural experiences |
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🚗 Day Trips from Ubud
And of course, one of the biggest perks of staying here is that Ubud serves as the perfect base for exploring the heart of Bali without having to travel for miles on end.
The best part is that, no matter where you are in the city, you can find yourself at temples, rice paddies or natural spots that look like they’re straight off a postcard in next to no time.
So, if you’re wondering what to see near Ubud or looking for day trips from the town without having to switch hotels, here are two fantastic options to get you started.
🐘 Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
The truth is, Goa Gajah is one of those places that surprises you more than you’d expect. It’s not just the famous rock-carved entrance, but the entire complex, with its bathing pools, paths, and archaeological remains that really invite you to take your time.
Travel time: around 10–15 minutes from the centre of Ubud
Getting there:
- Scooter or private car
- Local taxi or organised tour
Things to see and do:
- The ceremonial cave with its carved entrance
- Purification pools and gardens
- Stroll along the paths within the grounds
To be honest, it’s a really easy visit to fit in, even on those more relaxed days.
🌾 Rice terraces near Ubud
And that’s where Ubud really comes into its own. The surrounding rice terraces are one of central Bali’s most iconic sights, and you don’t have to travel far to enjoy them. Tegalalang is the most famous, but there are quieter spots that are just as stunning if you venture a little off the beaten track.
Journey time: between 20 and 40 minutes, depending on the area
Getting there:
- A scooter is a great choice if you're a confident rider.
- Private car with a driver, a very common way to get around Bali.
What to do there:
- Strolling through the rice paddies
- Stop off at scenic viewpoints and cafés with a view
- Sunrise or sunset photos
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❓ FAQ – Things to Do in Ubud
What are the best things to see in Ubud in one day?
If you only have one day, focus on the highlights. Walk around Ubud town, visit the Royal Palace and the Art Market, then head to the Monkey Forest for some nature without leaving the centre. End the day with a gentle walk nearby or a relaxing Balinese massage.What can I see in Ubud in 2 or 3 days?
With two or three days, you can take things at an easy pace. Spend one day exploring Ubud itself, another visiting nearby rice fields and temples such as Goa Gajah, and if you have extra time, enjoy a cultural activity or a spa experience.Where is the best area to stay in Ubud?
It depends on your travel style. If you want to walk everywhere and have shops and restaurants close by, Ubud centre is the most convenient. If you prefer peace and nature, look slightly south of town or stay among the rice fields.What can I see near Ubud without travelling far?
You do not need to go far to enjoy the area. Within about 15 to 30 minutes, you can reach temples, walking trails, rice terraces and small local villages. Goa Gajah, the Campuhan Ridge Walk and quieter rice fields are great options without long journeys.What can I do in Ubud when it rains or at night?
Ubud is easy to enjoy indoors too. On rainy days, visit museums, relax in cafés, join a cooking class or book a spa treatment. In the evening, enjoy dinner with a traditional dance show, explore night markets or simply have a quiet drink.
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