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:

📍 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.

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.

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.

⭐ 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

🌿 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.

☀️ 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:

🚗 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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