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
Amazing118 Reviews
Ubud Bali|22.98km from city centre
This place is absolutely beautiful, completely enveloped in greenery. The service is top-notch, with daily housekeeping ensuring everything is spotless and tidy. The staff are incredibly polite, attentive, and always smiling. Breakfasts are à la carte and absolutely delicious. The views from the restaurant and our room window are stunning. If you love lush greenery and tranquility, you definitely need to visit this hotel. The only minor inconvenience is the cascading layout of the buildings, but there's a quick solution – just call for a buggy, and it arrives fast.
It so happened that we celebrated our wedding anniversary at the hotel (I mentioned this when booking). The complimentary surprise was wonderful – a cake at breakfast, swans made from towels with a rose on the bed along with congratulations, and a bath filled with rose petals! It was all incredibly thoughtful. The cake was amazing. Thank you, hotel, for your kind consideration!From£51
Great850 Reviews
Kuta Bali|9.2km from city centre
Overall, a very unique bar, and definitely a great choice if you're vacationing with kids.
* **Location:** The hotel is in the heart of Kuta Beach. Step out, and you're right on the beach, surrounded by dining, shopping, and markets. Very convenient.
* **Room:** Generally decent. Cleanliness and the room itself were satisfactory.
* **Dining:** The food overall was good, and breakfast offered a good variety. However, I have to complain that there was only Western and Indian food, absolutely no Chinese options. We tried a buffet and an Italian restaurant for dinner at the hotel's three restaurants. The prices were reasonable, and the food was decent.
* **Facilities:** The swimming and water play facilities are absolutely top-notch. There are three large water play areas, easily enough to keep kids entertained for two days. The hotel has a rock and nightlife vibe, with the lobby acting as a large, very distinctive bar. They even offered complimentary bar drinks (which you can enjoy with your kids), which was a nice touch.From£137
Great828 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|18.83km from city centre
I have a very pleasant stay here. At 2014 back then when it is still Nikko, my brother had his wedding here and I appreciate the hotel still have their name hang in the wall near Wiwaha Chapel. The room is spacious and clean. The AC works really well. View from our room is so beautiful. Make sure to book the ocean view to enoy the beauty of Bali. We had Mexican dinner at Grain Restaurant, delicious food with Latin live band boost up the mood. Thank you Mrs. Sumerti for the hospitality during dinner. Definitely stay here if I visit Bali!From£118
Great130 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14.42km from city centre
We really enjoyed our stay at Bali Tropical Resort & Spa — excellent value for money. The property is a bit older (you can tell it was built years ago), but it has been well maintained and partially renovated, so everything still feels in good condition and comfortable.
Location is a big highlight: the hotel has direct beach access and it truly feels like the beach is part of the resort. The pool is large and has a swim-up/integrated bar, which is a great touch. The overall atmosphere is calm and relaxing — perfect for resting.
What we loved most is how authentically Balinese it feels: beautiful décor, carved doors, wood furniture, and even two small temples inside the hotel, which adds a special cultural vibe. The staff were extremely kind and helpful throughout our stay.
We also tried the spa, and we highly recommend it. You can find cheaper options outside, but the convenience and comfort of having it inside the hotel is worth it, and the prices are still reasonable. We ate at the hotel’s three restaurants and generally enjoyed the food.
Small note: breakfast was okay but not as impressive as the rest of the experience—some items felt a bit basic.
Overall, we would absolutely recommend this resort. Great service, great location, relaxing atmosphere — no need to look elsewhere.From£72
Very Good141 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£25
Great607 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.95km from city centre
Extremely satisfied! This was the best hotel we picked for our Bali trip. The service was fantastic. I mentioned in an email that it was for our honeymoon, and they beautifully decorated the room for us and even included complimentary club lounge afternoon tea. The entire resort is huge, and I regret only booking one night. Next time, I'll definitely stay for several more days.From£112
Business travel
Good412 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|6.6km from city centre
The hotel is quite old. The furnitures, beddings, walls, and everything reflects the age of the hotel. Though the staff probably tried their best to keep the room clean, it is not.. The bedding has stains, walls have cracks, and pipes smell. Minimal amenities provided. It's cheap so I guess you get what you pay for.
The location is very good. Walkable to some mini marts. Grab-able to beach and shopping area with lots of good cafe and restaurant around.From£9
Great421 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?From£50
Very Good349 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.42km from city centre
Overall, my stay was just okay – it was what you'd expect for the price, nothing special but no big surprises either. On the plus side, the service was decent; staff members always greeted me, and check-out was quick. However, there were a few minor issues in the room. The air conditioning was a bit noisy, which might bother light sleepers. Also, the shower had low water pressure and the temperature fluctuated. Cleanliness was acceptable, typical for a standard business hotel. All in all, it's decent value for money if you don't have high expectations.From£11
Very Good757 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.From£28
Very Good589 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.From£16
Very Good253 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.From£10
Family friendly
Very Good183 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.From£18
Very Good564 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.53km from city centre
I had a very pleasant stay overall. The staff were friendly, helpful, and welcoming with a drink, which made the experience even better. The hotel was clean, well maintained, and the room was spacious and comfortable.
One small detail I really appreciated was the TV having YouTube Premium, which was great for relaxing in the room.
The food was decent, although I felt it could be improved slightly. There was, however, a good selection of drinks available.
Overall, I would rate my stay 4.5/5. A comfortable hotel with good service, clean facilities, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Highly recommended na guys!!!From£23
Great835 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.From£29
Very Good310 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!From£84
Very Good600 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.1km from city centre
The location is quite strategic; it's a 5 minute walk to the beach and it's also far enough from the stretch of BBQ restaurants along the beach line, so the smokes won't reach you. (You might still smell them).
The hotel itself mostly has what I need. They also provide beach slippers! The towels could be better, but they're clean and smells nice. Would recommend this hotel!From£24
Great395 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.From£16
Breakfast
Very Good401 Reviews
Ubud Bali|21.48km from city centre
I do love this resort so much😭❤️
This place perfectly got the vibe I was looking for in Bali. Thanks to the beautiful pool nestled in the jungle, the pleasant room conditions, and the friendly staff, my vacation was truly special and enjoyable.
The private yoga class with Ms.Angga at Mantra pavilion made my day and it was a great experience for me🧘 She is so kind and enegetic❤️ I could feel that she really cared about me.
And I really thank you for the delicious birthday cake😭❤️🎂 I really enjoyed it!
The omelet at breakfast was good and since I had some time before heading to the airport after checking out, I had Pisa Goreng at the restaurant, which was really tasty🍌
100% recommend here!From£60
Amazing1192 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|19.15km from city centre
This was a truly wonderful and lovely hotel. The staff were kind and attentive, and having staff who spoke Japanese made our stay very reassuring. I'd love to stay here again.From£263
Great577 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!From£118
Very Good171 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£76
Great218 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.From£85
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.From£19
Gym
Very Good225 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£17
Amazing602 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.From£85
Great664 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|17.07km from city centre
This was my second stay, and I chose the resort again. The quality was just as excellent as before! Since I booked for 2 adults and 1 child, the extra bed was already made when we entered the room! I had mentioned it was my child's birthday in advance via the app and to the butler. The first time we entered the room, we saw birthday decorations, and then when we returned to the room a second time, there was even a small cake waiting for us! So thoughtful! I will definitely choose Ayana again next time I visit Bali!From£207
Very Good419 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.From£40
Very Good452 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.From£15
Amazing80 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£70
⭐ 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
479 Reviews
I was able to see two manta rays while snorkeling.
The sea was so beautiful, it was a precious experience. I got really tanned in just one day, so sunscreen is a must!£1
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
220 Reviews
Waterbom is a must trip in Bali with small and big kids. We went for 2 days£26
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
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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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