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
Amazing119 Reviews
Ubud Bali|22.98km from city centre
I can't understand why this hotel isn't rated 10! The view was fantastic, and the hotel is spacious with a great design; you can see wooden reliefs everywhere. Breakfast was à la carte, and it was incredibly delicious and plentiful (the banana pancakes were particularly memorable). The service was very warm and attentive.FromJPY 10,779
Great852 Reviews
Kuta Bali|9.2km from city centre
Excellent hotel, super location. Malls are nearby, plenty of places to walk around and eat. The ocean is just a 5-minute walk for a dip in the waves. It's also the best location for excursions. The pools are fantastic, and there are slides for the kids. The hotel food is very tasty and not expensive. The staff is simply amazing!FromJPY 25,930
Great829 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|18.83km from city centre
The cliffside rooms offer great views. They're very spacious, clean, and feature a wet/dry bathroom separation, with each room having its own balcony. The hotel's toiletries are excellent, and they provide unlimited filtered drinking water daily. The hotel also organizes daily activities that guests can choose to join.
Facilities: There are many swimming pools with clean water. There's also a beach pool, a favorite for kids, and a small private beach – not ideal for swimming, but perfect for a quick dip.
Breakfast: It's decent, enough to fill you up.
Surroundings: There's a construction site nearby, but it's not noisy, just a slight obstruction to the view.
Transportation: It's quite far from the city center, so you'll need a taxi to get around. There are no convenience stores nearby.FromJPY 18,437
Great131 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14.42km from city centre
On the very first day of our stay, my husband got severe food poisoning after breakfast. We couldn't pinpoint the exact food, but it might have been the eggs (omelet). The sea doesn't match the photos on the hotel's page; in reality, you can't really swim in it. In the bay, the water only reaches an adult's waist at most, even up to the buoys, and there's a lot of seaweed in the water. Anyone who dislikes algae at the bottom and in the water will be very uncomfortable. If you want to swim, you'll need to go to other beaches towards the southern part of the island. Otherwise, the hotel's infrastructure and staff are excellent, 5/5.FromJPY 14,679
Very Good141 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|7.64km from city centre
Love the stay. Super close to everything. Hotel also provides a great gym & spa. Also we were able to hire a scooter from the hotel which was delivered, made it super easy!!FromJPY 5,247
Great619 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.95km from city centre
The room was clean and tidy, the environment was great, and the staff were very friendly. The hotel beach was fantastic, perfect for a relaxing stroll in the morning and evening. There was also a BBQ available by the beach at night.FromJPY 23,543
Business travel
Good408 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|6.6km from city centre
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.FromJPY 1,915
Very Good421 Reviews
Sanur Bali|7.01km from city centre
We made a last-minute decision to visit during the summer holidays and chose this hotel because of its proximity to the beach. I was prepared for an older hotel in an older area, and that's exactly what it was; there were quite a few middle-aged and elderly guests. However, the hotel's pool and garden views were quite nice, and the rooms had been renovated. The showerhead wasn't discolored, and the water quality was fine. Breakfast was acceptable, I'd give it an 80%. Besides the locally grown papaya, nothing else really stood out. We received drink vouchers for the restaurant bar, which was a pleasant place to relax. Bicycles were available for rent, and cycling along the beach was very enjoyable. There's a good restaurant by the hotel beach, with a 4.9-star rating on Google Maps. We ordered three set meals for over RMB 600 (including a significant service charge).
However, there were some downsides:
1. The hairdryer was broken. I specifically went to the front desk to ask for a replacement, but nothing was done. Luckily, it was summer.
2. Service discrimination favoring Caucasians. When queuing for eggs🍳, a Caucasian lady behind me asked for soft-boiled eggs. The chef, with an ingratiating smile, went out of his way to cater to her request, spending considerable time and completely ignoring my🍳, which was ahead of hers. Only after he finished serving the Caucasian lady with a bow did he turn to my eggs, which were already overcooked. He just made an awkward sound and offered no apology.
3. For an Indonesian hotel costing over RMB 1000 a night, I discovered upon leaving that there were green crayon marks on the quilt (near the foot end) (see picture). Are they so stingy with linen that they won't discard it?FromJPY 10,542
Very Good351 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.42km from city centre
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.FromJPY 2,293
Very Good761 Reviews
Kuta Bali|9.39km from city centre
This hotel boasts a spacious property, and from the moment you step in, you're enveloped in a holiday atmosphere. It features a restaurant, an outdoor pool, and is surrounded by lush, vibrant greenery.
The room facilities are simple but complete, and the hygiene is excellent. Our room thoughtfully included an extra bed for the child, which was surprisingly comfortable. The hotel is relatively close to the airport, taking about 28 minutes during busy times. Overall, it offers great value for money in the Kuta area.FromJPY 5,957
Very Good597 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|7.98km from city centre
We stayed for 5 nights. The first night, we couldn't sleep due to noise from the nightclub in our room, but we changed rooms the next day. The rooms are nice, clean, and spacious. Breakfast was varied and very delicious. The staff were very helpful and friendly. The location is good, close to the beach, and there's a shopping mall, laundry service, and scooter rental nearby. The pool isn't great for swimming, but it's fine for relaxing by during breakfast. It's a nice hotel if you plan to stay at night and explore during the day, but it's not a hotel for all-day activities. We had a good stay, thank you.FromJPY 2,931
Very Good254 Reviews
Legian Bali|8.11km from city centre
I stayed for two nights in a room at the end of the first floor. The hotel had a pool, and the breakfast was relatively good. The location was excellent, within walking distance to both the city center and the beach. However, there was a gap above the door, and when I left the bathroom fan on overnight, a large number of mosquitoes got in through it. I woke up in the middle of the night with bites on my face and immediately went to a convenience store to buy insect repellent, killing about 20 mosquitoes. The next day, I didn't turn on the fan and instead used the mosquito coil provided by the hotel near the entrance, which resulted in only one or two mosquitoes getting in. Still, I used up a half-sized can of insect repellent in two days.FromJPY 2,269
Family friendly
Very Good182 Reviews
Kuta Bali|8.72km from city centre
This is starting to feel like a joke, but we checked in here for the third time just to be absolutely sure this hotel isn't for us. Again, I was given a different room, and again, no peace and quiet. This time, there was construction work that started at 8 AM and continued until late evening. On top of that, we were given a room with two separate beds, but then they pushed them together and put one large mattress on top.FromJPY 3,853
Very Good570 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.53km from city centre
The hotel was very clean, and I was very satisfied with the breakfast buffet!
I also used the gym, but I was surprised to find out that it was in a separate building! The hotel was much bigger than I expected, and even walking around the property was fun. 🎶
I also loved that you could access the beach directly from the hotel. The sunset was absolutely beautiful! 🌅FromJPY 4,869
Great839 Reviews
Kuta Bali|11km from city centre
I chose to stay at this Hotel as it was close to the airport for a late night arrival and there was a free airport shuttle. As a single older lady this was importsnt for me. Everything was great. Driver was there waiting despite almost 2 hours waiting for baggage dnd getting through customs at Bali airport. Hotel is clean, friendly and the rooftop
Pool snd har although only small is a great place to relax after travelling. Close to beach and shops and malls. Felt very comfortable here ( oh and breakfast is great!). Also, the adjacent Envy restaurant close to the beach is perfect for evening meal.FromJPY 7,162
Very Good313 Reviews
Ubud Bali|18.62km from city centre
This was my second time staying at this hotel. The first time was a solo trip, and this time with my husband. I love the location as it is in the middle of Ubud City Center and all the attractions up north (Tegalalang, Tirta Empul, etc). Forgot to take any photo of the room though, but it was very comfortable! Breakfast is good, but the soy latte is too sweet for my liking. Need better plant-based mylk option. But overall, an enjoyable stay!FromJPY 16,617
Very Good601 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.1km from city centre
The hotel is very close to Jimbaran Beach, only a 6-7 minute walk away. Plus, there's a really good Indonesian restaurant right outside the hotel that's not too expensive.
The hotel facilities themselves are a bit old, but they're well-maintained. The infinity pool on the top floor is very comfortable and offers great views :)
At night, there's a night market on the road outside the hotel. It's crowded, but there's also a lot of traffic, so walking can be dangerous. I didn't try the food, so I don't know if it's good, haha.
This hotel is part of ASR Ascott, but I enquired beforehand and they don't offer any special member benefits. So it's cheaper to just book through a third-party platform :)FromJPY 4,987
Great404 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|7.13km from city centre
The location is excellent! All the famous restaurants and cafes in Seminyak are within walking distance. A taxi from the airport to the hotel takes about 30 minutes, and there's a convenience store right across the street.
Breakfast is served from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM, and it's quite substantial, though the 10 AM cut-off feels a bit early.
All the staff were incredibly polite and welcoming.
Overall, it offers fantastic value for money.FromJPY 3,451
Breakfast
Very Good405 Reviews
Ubud Bali|21.48km from city centre
My stay at Kenran Resort Ubud was mixed. I had specifically booked a room with a terrace on the 2nd or 3rd floor, but when I arrived, I was given a room on the 1st floor instead. Unfortunately, the room had a very strong mold smell, which made the first night quite unpleasant.
I raised the issue with the staff, and only after a fairly long discussion did they agree to move me to another room the following day. Once I was moved to the 3rd floor, the experience changed completely. The room was much better, and the views from the resort were genuinely beautiful.
My main advice to future guests would be to check the room carefully when you arrive, especially if you are placed on the 1st floor. Based on my experience, I would personally avoid the first-floor rooms.
The breakfast was another weak point for me. The menu felt limited and could definitely be improved.
Overall, the resort has amazing views and a lot of potential, and my stay became very enjoyable after moving to the 3rd floor. However, the first-day room issue and the breakfast quality stopped it from being a great experience from the beginning.FromJPY 12,433
Amazing1196 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|19.15km from city centre
I finally got to stay at the Kempinski, which I'd been looking forward to! It's an absolutely wonderful hotel, from the magnificent lobby to the spectacular view of the Indian Ocean from the lobby. There was one time after check-in when the elevator stopped on the way to our room, but it was promptly reported to a supervisor and maintenance was performed, which put us at ease. We also received apologies via WhatsApp and at check-out, leaving us with the impression that this is a very trustworthy hotel. Besides the excellent facilities like the restaurants and room cleanliness, the staff's hospitality was also outstanding. This is definitely the hotel I want to stay at again next time I visit Bali.FromJPY 54,413
Amazing578 Reviews
Uluwatu Bali|19.37km from city centre
This beautiful hotel has a vantage point of the entire Uluwatu region as far as seeing the aircraft landing into the airport. Everything is spectacular, especially the upper and lower infinity pools. Breakfast is bountiful. The best thing is you get free shuttle and access to the RoosterFish Beach club, which is great if you want a change of scenery at Pandawa beach. A lot of guests stay here because of this perk. Top notch service as everyone greets you with a smile. Seeing that I was travelling alone and staying only for one night, Aldi at the front desk made sure I had a great stay and gave me an amazing upgrade to their seaview terrace room, which really elevated my whole stay as I used the sundeck to sunbathe. I am genuinely grateful and will always remember my wonderful time at the Renaissance Uluwatu!FromJPY 26,521
Very Good173 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14km from city centre
The decor is a bit dated, and the bottled water wasn't great. Everything else was good, though. The breakfast was plentiful, and all the hotel staff were very friendly. The pool is large, with plenty of space to sunbathe. The beach is very close and clean, but the sea isn't suitable for swimming. The water is clear, and you can find small crabs under the rocks. If you exit the hotel and go left, diagonally across the street, there's a Chinese restaurant called 'Peace Restaurant' which has good prices and delicious food, plus there are many supermarkets nearby.FromJPY 15,790
Great226 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|15.75km from city centre
Perfect place for a family, room is clean and smells the best. I am very picky about hygiene so the fact that I say this is a big deal, trust me.
I didn't find any mosquito in the room. But the hotel left some baygon just in case if you need it.
Amenities is stocked up.
The turn down service was nice too but i wish they left us with a little treat to make it more special
Food is great, the chocolate hour was a nice touch, but i wish they also include at least some water for the children, every drink is extra during this hour. We did request for it to be delivered to our room as our daughter was not in the mood for going down to the restaurant but she really wanted the chocolate, i was alone so I was not possible to leave her by herself…but they denied it, i guess this is a red light for me.
As for the pools, you got options for every age. For the first time my daughter swam for 5 hours! It was just that amazing.
But there is one accident that was unexpected, the swii (floating board with battery) died during the use, my daughter is 4 so yes she was panicked as the pool was deep. Luckily I had a feeling it would happen and I happen to be just behind her. I don’t want to imagine if i was not there next to her…
The service was impeccable and the fact that it is located next to samasta makes our stay a lot more easier. As we wait for check in we had a lunch there and a little shopping. There is a cultural dance in the evening that was a very welcoming sight!
It was about 5-10 mins walk to jimbaran beach, you dont need a buggy for it as the buggy has specific schedules.
If you are looking for a place to dine with Jimbaran beach view and amazing seafood but does not want to go with the crowd, Sundara restaurant behind the hotel was perfect.
My daughter and I had the best Jimbaran fish here, and I am a local! The restaurant belong to FS hotel. So yes the price is high but the food and service is amazing, also you don’t need to go far! The location if this hotel was perfect for a family.
The kids play was good but could be better, honestly if this was marketed as family hotel i think they can put a little more effort in keeping the kids corner updated. There is also a specific section for kids dining area with TV and kids utensils, but somehow is a bit dark.
The food was perfectly separated for halal/no pork. It was the perfect mix between local food and western, i had the best bakso there.
As for room, We had a suite room overlooking the pool, and the fact that we are on 2nd floor makes it so easy to go to restaurant and the pool as it was only 1 stair away.
the hotel was fully booked. I wish to add another night but unfortunately all the rooms are sold out.FromJPY 21,794
Good59 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14.61km from city centre
This hotel is a bit far from Lassadova Beach. However, the facilities are a little old, but the breakfast is good. There's a swimming pool around the building, but it was too hot, so not many people were swimming. It's a great hotel for a layover. The breakfast has a wide variety, the coffee is delicious, and there are various fruits. There are few restaurants and supermarkets nearby, so you need to walk a bit to find them.FromJPY 3,877
Gym
Very Good226 Reviews
Bali|2.55km from city centre
My overall experience on this hotel is excellent. Easy to find, good location. Lobby staffs are friendly and accommodating. Lobby, waiting area, elevator and hallways are all modern. The room door is superb. Clean and soft bed, strong wifi connection, hot and cold shower. The room is big yet very affordable. i highly recommend this hotel.FromJPY 3,404
Amazing605 Reviews
Ubud Bali|15.95km from city centre
Our room was on the second floor and offered a beautiful view from the balcony. The hotel itself isn't very large, but it's incredibly charming and well-maintained. The breakfast was also delicious; they have an à la carte menu with smaller portions, so you can try a variety of dishes. We stayed for three days and ordered something different each morning, and everything was great. The only downsides were that the room felt a bit damp and the air conditioning seemed old.FromJPY 18,106
Great666 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|17.07km from city centre
Ayana resort is amazing. All the pools, facilities and staff are super nice. The ocean view pool is fab. Good place for stay over at least 2 nights. But the resort looks pretty old. The first day we checked in around 7pm, so we cannot see the view. But the first room has mould smell. So we asked change room. In the second day we found it’s a “golf” view rather than bay view. So we asked for change room again, and we asked for breakfast rather than give us only a pool access. They refused for the first time which is quite disappointing at beginning. If you go to rock bar, book the seats early and do not order the food as they’re not worth what you pay. Also the round area is for villa customers only, tried to book but when we go there they tells us we cannot book it.FromJPY 43,044
Very Good426 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.64km from city centre
The resort is close to 2 shopping malls, lots of restaurants and other shops. The room is good and is kept very clean. The bed was a little hard for my liking and the pillows are all a bit lumpy but the resort is good value for what it is. The beach area is pretty good compared to other hotels in Kuta. The pool area is lovely & the pool bar is great. Whilst I was there, there was aqua fit, a volley ball style competition & I believe it was bingo though I didnt take part. I choose to sit round the pool near the waterfall to block out the noise of the many people. It’s a great hotel for kids. I liked that they had various different floats in the pool for you to use. The breakfast there was quite a bit to choose from & mostly tasted good however I just wish there was more in the way of breakfast options. Eating pesto pasta and macaroni cheese for breakfast isn’t ideal.FromJPY 8,486
Very Good450 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|6.77km from city centre
The staff were very friendly, helpful, and genuinely service-minded. They were also happy to recommend places and things to do around the area, which we really appreciated.
Unfortunately, there were several issues that significantly affected our stay. During the daytime, there was some burning happening around the nearby rice field, and the smell came directly into our room. It became uncomfortable enough that we had to leave the hotel for a few hours and only came back in the evening.
The biggest problem, however, was the air conditioning. In the middle of the night, the room became extremely cold even though we had not intended to make it that cold. We were surprised to find the air conditioner running at 17°C with the fan at maximum speed. We had to wake up several times to adjust the temperature, and because of this we could not sleep properly until early morning.
The Wi-Fi was also very poor. Once our phones connected to the hotel Wi-Fi, the internet was practically unusable, so we eventually had to disconnect and use our own roaming mobile data instead.
Overall, the staff and service were good, but the air conditioning and internet problems seriously affected the comfort of our stay. If these two issues were fixed, the experience would be much better.FromJPY 3,096
Amazing80 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|7.71km from city centre
This hotel really gives off a vacation vibe! Every room has a balcony overlooking the pool, perfect for spending a whole day just lounging by the pool. The staff are all so friendly and kind, and the room was spotlessly clean. The lounge chairs and bedding were hygienic and comfortable. However, the bathroom fixtures showed significant signs of age, which was a big drawback and really needs renovating.FromJPY 14,844
⭐ 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
482 Reviews
A great place 👍When visiting Indonesia, be sure to stop by 👌 Paradise Island 🏝️ If you're planning to swim at Keling King Beach, first learn about rip currents. Swim at this beach with extreme caution and only if you have experience! ☝️JPY 219
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
219 Reviews
Waterbom is a must trip in Bali with small and big kids. We went for 2 daysJPY 5,510
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
479 Reviews
Ubud là một nơi rất tuyệt vời với những căn nhà truyền thống và văn hoá. Đặc biệt vào buổi tối khi đèn trong các khu phố được bật sáng và mình đi bộ trong khu phố cổ. Người dân nơi đây rất thân thiện. Chắc chắn sẽ quay lại để được sống và trải nghiệm nhiều hơnSacred 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
4.5/5
413 Reviews
Beautiful nature. The monkeys are not aggressive unless disturbed. It's worth spending a little time in the forest.JPY 963
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
If you're in Bali, Ubud is waiting for you! Enjoy your trip to Indonesia with Trip.com! ✈️
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❓ FAQ – Things to Do in Ubud
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