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
Amazing115 Reviews
Ubud Bali|22.98km from city centre
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£64
Very Good130 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|7.64km from city centre
Friendly and attentive staff with prompt service around the clock!
The hotel is conveniently located next to the lounge with an awesome live band, and the restaurant separated by glass door with a good view to the lounge for more privacy with ample seating & a comfortable dining experience.
And not forgetting the relaxing awesome pool surrounded by nature!From£26
Great558 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.95km from city centre
We chose this hotel for the last two nights of our Bali trip because it offered excellent value compared to many other resorts in Bali and even other InterContinental properties. The resort itself is huge, with a wide variety of facilities including separate adult and family pools, an indoor gym, a calisthenics gym, beautiful ponds, direct beach access, and very friendly staff. On paper, it seemed like a fantastic choice.
Unfortunately, our stay turned out to be extremely disappointing.
We stayed in room number 4127. On our first night, both of us woke up covered in insect bites despite sleeping tucked under the blankets. Around midnight, we had to spray both the bed and ourselves with insect repellent just to get through the night. The following morning, we reported the issue and requested a room change because we were concerned there might be insects in the mattress. Instead, we were only offered fresh bed sheets and a general cleaning of the room.
Sadly, the exact same thing happened again on the second night. We woke up with even more bites and no longer felt safe sleeping in the bed. We strongly suspected there were bugs hiding in the mattress. We ended up leaving the room in the middle of the night and spent the rest of the night in the hotel lobby because we were too afraid to return to bed.
What disappointed us the most was how the situation was handled. We showed the staff numerous photos documenting the bites over both nights, yet the only compensation offered was to waive a small bill (about RMB 55) for an ice cream and a coffee. Considering we lost two nights of sleep, experienced significant discomfort, and had to spend an entire night in the lobby, this response felt inadequate and did not reflect the level of service we expected.
In addition, the hotel itself feels quite dated. Although it has its charm, many areas appear to have aged significantly. The towels were noticeably worn, wooden fixtures were chipped, and the overall condition suggested the property is overdue for a major renovation.
We genuinely wanted to enjoy our stay because the resort has so much potential. The grounds are beautiful, the facilities are plentiful, and the staff we interacted with were polite and friendly. However, the insect issue and the hotel’s response overshadowed everything else. We hope management takes this feedback seriously and thoroughly investigates the mattresses and rooms so future guests do not have the same experience.From£131
Amazing571 Reviews
Ubud Bali|16km from city centre
Facilities: Natural, Balinese style
Cleanliness: Excellent
Ambiance: The room's fragrance was fresh and perfect.
Service: Very attentive
We canceled another hotel and switched to this one. The location is excellent; a small path next to it leads directly to the back entrance of Yogabarn, and the popular Pison restaurant is right next door. Ubud's bustling shopping street is also nearby. If you're looking for plenty of activities, this is a top choice. Breakfast was delicious. The hotel's toiletries—shampoo, conditioner, and body wash—smelled wonderful, and I even bought a set before leaving. Unfortunately, the lotion was out of stock. My question now is: How can I purchase it, and can it be shipped domestically? How can I contact you?From£118
Very Good309 Reviews
Ubud Bali|18.62km from city centre
For my second hotel in Bali, I chose the Element by Westin Ubud. Given that Bali is famous for its rainforests in addition to its beaches, and Ubud is the heart of terraced rice paddies, rainforests, and traditional architecture, I opted for a hotel there. However, I won't be staying at this property again.
**Service:**
The staff are mostly young and energetic, with good attitudes. However, my overall experience was just mediocre, mainly due to two issues:
1. During check-in, they recommended a Chinese New Year's Eve dinner. I paid by topping up an account, but then they told me they had no change. It took several phone calls the night before departure to finally get my change back.
2. The Chinese dinner itself was also a letdown. The food selection was limited and even less extensive than the breakfast. Plus, drinks had to be purchased separately. For a buffet at this price point, it was quite unacceptable.
**Location:**
The hotel is quite secluded, about a 40-minute walk from the heart of Ubud. Taking a taxi takes roughly the same amount of time due to heavy traffic. The surroundings are very isolated, so I wouldn't recommend it.
It's a 20-minute drive to the rice terraces.
**Facilities:**
1. I initially booked a pool access room based on pictures, expecting it to be right outside my door. However, upon arrival, I discovered a significant gap: the room was on the same floor as the pool, but I still had to walk a fair distance to reach it. The photos were misleading.
2. The bathroom lacked body lotion and a weighing scale. For a five-star hotel, this felt a bit underwhelming and not quite up to par.
3. Furthermore, some rooms had issues with their sinks, indicating a lack of proper maintenance.From£74
Great301 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.22km from city centre
Amazing hotel with beautiful garden and pool with a waterfront view next to Discovery Mall. The hotel has been nicely renovated recently but the room is still the dated décor nevertheless clean and comfortable.
Hotel staff are friendly and service has been excellent.
The breakfast spread was very good. We are so glad we chose this hotel where we could conveniently go over to the mall next door along the waterfront.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay.From£64
Business travel
Good424 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|6.6km from city centre
I chose Sense Seminyak Hotel mainly because of its strategic location—it’s right in front of Eiger and adidas stores, which made shopping super convenient for me. After that, I easily took a Gojek ride to Seminyak Beach to catch the sunset.
The location is definitely a big plus, with everything you need nearby. It’s also a popular choice among travelers because the price is very reasonable for what you get.
A great option if you’re looking for convenience, good value, and easy access to shopping and the beach!From£9
Very Good412 Reviews
Sanur Bali|7.01km from city centre
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£67
Very Good329 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.From£12
Great744 Reviews
Kuta Bali|9.39km from city centre
I had a wonderful stay here. The location is excellent — close to the airport, the beach, and shopping centers. The service was top-notch.
That said, the breakfast buffet wasn't for me; I didn't find much on offer that suited my taste. I also stayed two nights and ran into a bit of a crowd late at night on the ground floor — other guests were having a party, drinking and shouting.
Overall, it's a good pick.From£43
Very Good546 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|7.98km from city centre
Our stay in Bali this time was incredibly comfortable and pleasant! A special thanks to Adinda and Anggi, who provided exceptional and thoughtful service throughout our entire stay. They were always patient and helpful with any questions we had, and their attitude was both gentle and professional. The hotel environment was also fantastic – the rooms were clean and tidy, and the common areas were meticulously maintained, making for a truly comfortable stay. I highly recommend this hotel; I'll be suggesting it to all my friends who visit in the future!From£18
Very Good248 Reviews
Legian Bali|8.11km from city centre
Cleaner then most I’ve seen.
The staff are amazing & so kind.
Myself & 2 friends booked this hotel last minute after arriving to our previous hotel that was in a horrible state.
Paradiso luckily had 2 last rooms and allowed us to check in a little earlier so we didn’t need to stay longer at the first hotel.
Rooms were always cleaned & maintained well.
The bar & pool area is such a good vibe & service is very good, so friendly & always up for a chat.
Great price. Definitely will be my good to hotel from now on. The food & drink menu is amazing & well priced.From£12
Family friendly
Very Good174 Reviews
Kuta Bali|8.72km from city centre
Great location! Right in the middle of bustling Legian street but a little inside the alley, so there was no noise from night clubs. Such a variety of breakfast that changed everyday. The only thing to improve is amenities in the room as there were no face & hair towels, and bath towels were so old. They should’ve provided bathrobes for the pool also.From£20
Very Good508 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.53km from city centre
beyond expectations 🤍
Everything about this hotel was exceptional, especially considering the price range compared to other hotels in the area. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel genuinely welcomed with their kindness, professionalism, and warm smiles. The service was outstanding in every detail.
The rooms were spotless, comfortable, and very well maintained. Housekeeping was excellent, and the whole hotel had a clean, relaxing atmosphere. The beds were extremely comfortable and we had such peaceful sleep every night.
The breakfast was easily 10/10 😍
Great variety, fresh food every day, delicious options for both adults and children, and everything was presented beautifully. Even the coffee and juices were excellent.
The pool area was amazing ,clean, relaxing, and perfect for families. The hotel is also very family-friendly overall, with such a safe and comfortable environment for children. The staff were incredibly sweet and caring with kids, which made the experience even better for our family.
The location is also perfect: close to everything in Kuta while still feeling peaceful and quiet inside the hotel.
Honestly, compared to other hotels in the same price range around the area, Bintang Kuta deserves a true 10/10 Outstanding rating. It genuinely feels like a much more expensive hotel because of the quality of service, cleanliness, comfort, and attention to detail.
You can clearly feel that the management and staff truly care about the guests and work with passion and professionalism. We would absolutely stay here again without hesitation 🌟From£23
Great807 Reviews
Kuta Bali|11km from city centre
This hotel offers incredible value for money. It includes a free 24-hour airport shuttle, which is amazing for such a small and affordable place. They even have a rooftop pool and offer services, plus you can share some facilities with the nearby resort. It's perfect for a transit stay when arriving or departing.From£31
Great555 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.1km from city centre
• Location: Close to the airport and the ocean. Easy access to shops, currency exchange booths, cafes, street food vendors, and massage parlors.
• Room: Spacious with all the essentials: a safe, slippers, toothbrushes and toothpaste, shower gel, and shampoo. The view was of a soccer field and local houses, but it was noisy at night even with the windows closed; we could hear motorbikes racing on the road. The lack of a balcony wasn't an issue; we dried our clothes in the room.
At one point, the air conditioning stopped working, but we reported it to reception, and they fixed it quickly.
The shower drained poorly, likely due to a lack of slope towards the drain.
• Breakfast: Varied, with sliced cheese and cold cuts, a vegetable and salad station, an omelet station, several types of fruit, fried fish, chicken in various sauces, rice, pasta, a self-serve soup station, but the pastries were cold 😓.
I didn't like that smoking was allowed at the tables.
• Pool: Overlooking Jimbaran Bay. Absolutely beautiful. I wanted to explore every corner. The pool looked clean, and all the tiles were intact. There was a bar nearby where you could order drinks and food at reasonable prices.
• Ocean: A straight 5-minute walk down a quiet street. The beach is being cleaned this year. The most beautiful sunsets are only here 😍. The hotel doesn't have its own sun loungers and umbrellas, but you can rent them on the beach without any problems.
Overall, the hotel offers excellent value for money. The cost is affordable for such a great vacation.From£31
Amazing1151 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|19.15km from city centre
The hotel grounds are expansive and the lobby is quite grand, with a nice aesthetic. However, the rooms and elevators are really showing their age. The lettering on light switches is completely worn off, and you can barely read the labels on the shower gel bottles – I don't know why the hotel hasn't replaced them yet. While the room was spacious, it felt too old for the price. On the positive side, there's an indoor kids' play area and a small water slide, which the children absolutely loved. There aren't any convenience stores nearby, which was a bit inconvenient. Overall, a one or two-day stay is more than enough here.From£348
Very Good403 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.64km from city centre
This garden-style hotel is a large estate, conveniently located with easy access to shopping. It offers good parking, is safe, and boasts a beautiful environment with comprehensive facilities. The breakfast is abundant, and there's a large swimming area. The hotel also has direct access to the beach, perfect for watching the sunset.From£49
Breakfast
Very Good362 Reviews
Ubud Bali|21.48km from city centre
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£66
Great558 Reviews
Uluwatu Bali|19.37km from city centre
Had a wonderful three-day stay at the Renaissance. Ms. Widyas at the front desk was incredibly welcoming and even gave us a free room upgrade based on our needs. All the staff were very friendly and eager to interact with guests, so if your English isn't great, your experience might be a bit limited. The infinity pool is a major highlight and truly massive; definitely give it a try. The hotel also offers many free morning activities, which is another great perk. However, the cycling activity requires a good level of fitness, so those with lower stamina should be cautious.From£141
Very Good176 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14km from city centre
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£94
Great187 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|15.75km from city centre
We really enjoyed our stay at Mövenpick and were very happy with our overall experience.
The hotel itself is beautiful, with a stylish and thoughtful design throughout. Our room was spacious, comfortable, and beautifully designed as well. The service was excellent, and the staff were always friendly, responsive, and genuinely willing to help whenever we needed anything.
The only downside was breakfast. At times, it felt like there were simply more guests than the restaurant and staff could comfortably accommodate, which made the experience a little hectic and the service less smooth than in the rest of the hotel.
Apart from that, everything was wonderful. We truly enjoyed our stay and were very pleased with the hotel, the service, and the atmosphere. Thank you to the entire team for making our time at MövenpickFrom£98
59 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14.61km from city centre
Exceptional Stay in The Crystal Luxury bay resort!
I recently had the pleasure of staying at this incredible hotel, and I must say it exceeded my expectations in every way! The hotel's photos don't do it justice - the lobby, staff greetings, and overall ambiance are truly impressive.
The staff members are remarkably friendly, polite, and attentive, providing top-notch service that makes you feel valued. The hotel's bay view is breathtaking, offering a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
One of the highlights of my stay was the spa - incredibly affordable and absolutely divine! I highly recommend treating yourself to a session (or two!).
Considering the exceptional quality and service, I believe this hotel is significantly underpriced. I would return in a heartbeat if I ever visit Bali again. If you're looking for a fantastic stay, look no further! 5/5 starsFrom£21
Very Good174 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14.56km from city centre
Superb hotel, pleasant stay. Breakfast is delicious. Enough variety and great flavour. Good coffee too. Room is nice and as seen on pics, only need mild refurbishment. Staff are friendly, attentive and quick to help. Check in was fast. We are staying here to visit our parents' cemetery. Will be coming back here when visiting Bali.From£13
Gym
Very Good223 Reviews
Bali|2.55km from city centre
Check in was smooth. Staffs were friendly.
Hotel is huge, they have 3 blocks. I got the far end of the block which was a little bit away from the reception and the restaurants and the open space for smoking.
In 2 circumstances, i walked up to the room and the door card could not work. This happened in 2 different nights. I had to walk down and got it reset, but the staffs didnt bother to apologise for this. The first time it happened I was okay, but the second time it happened, I got pissed off, because it was a long walk from the room to the reception.
If you order food delivery, it will be a long walk to take your food at the reception.
If you got the rooms at the reception level, I'm sure it will be a great experience like the first time I was there in the Junior Suite, but this time it was not as pleasant.
Thumbs up though for the housekeeping, as the found out I had many shirts lying on the sofa, they brought a small clothes rack and hung my shirts.From£23
Very Good360 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|7.13km from city centre
The staff service is very friendly and good here! Very recommend to stay at this hotel as their location is very convenient! Opposite has many many marts and pharmacies, easy to walk and buy things you need! They also have provide laundry service which can get your clothes in 24 hours and charge about 30k for 1kg. They also will top up mineral water and all the tea, toothbrush every day. Will definitely stay here again in the future!From£18
Great654 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|17.07km from city centre
Couldn't find anything bad about it, really great! However, it would be even better if the resort offered free drinking water everywhere. Right now, if you don't bring your own water and want to get some by the pool or elsewhere, you have to pay for it!From£217
Very Good415 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|6.77km from city centre
I stayed here for a week and had a wonderful time. The spacious room, large bed, and comfortable balcony overlooking the fields made every day enjoyable. I'm truly grateful to all the hotel staff for their kind and friendly service at all times. They were incredibly prompt in handling issues like the faulty security box and running out of toilet paper, which I really appreciated. The breakfast buffet was fantastic, offering not just Indonesian dishes but also bread, desserts, and fruits. I especially loved the terrace seating where I could enjoy the morning breeze and sunshine. The hotel's location is excellent, close to a big beach club and the beach, with convenience stores and restaurants within walking distance, and Grab taxis arriving quickly. This was a truly wonderful trip, and I'd love to stay here again.From£17
Amazing85 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 *****. Plenty shops and restaurants within walking distance.From£72
Amazing119 Reviews
Ubud Bali|26.57km from city centre
Overall, the service was great, and the restaurant food was delicious! The shower pressure felt a little weak, but I'm sure that's just me being a picky Japanese person. Also, there was a massive gecko invasion at night... They didn't come into the room, and apparently, they eat bugs, but I'm not a fan, so I spent my time nervously looking around both in my room and when walking outside. The staff were very thoughtful, and I really wished I could have stayed longer! Thank you so much!From£284
⭐ 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
442 Reviews
Best service. No need wait.£5
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
It's a cool water park. Sure, there are lines for the coolest slides, but it's still incredibly cool. Even if you just come and chill, it's like being at a beach club.£21
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
481 Reviews
The red carpet directly in front of the stage where the dance is performed is for the audience. Most people don't know this and sit in the chairs at the back, but actually, the best view of the dance is from the red carpet.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
4.5/5
396 Reviews
Fun here£5
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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