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
Amazing117 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!FromUS$69
Great862 Reviews
Kuta Bali|9.2km from city centre
Travelled with my family. Amazing staff, food selection that changes daily to keep it different and exciting. My kids would get excited to see what towel animal was on the bed the next day. From the entry of hard rock all the way in, even the cleaners were just insanely amazing and kind. Everything was clean. Tidy and reception went above and beyond for the tooth fairy when a last minute, almost midnight tooth come out. Easy enough to walk across the road and get snacks from the mini marts, food for families and order convenient food in the Hard Rock. Which makes it affordable with options. All accessible for prams. I saw people walking sticks and walking frames. With the options of steps and ramps/lifts which makes it very inclusive which I loved. Helpful staff if any support is needed, they’re there and go out of their way to help. So kind, so thoughtful. I had a 12 & 6 year old. Accommodated for all ages and abilities with many swim areas to choose from.FromUS$99
Great831 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|18.83km from city centre
Most of the staff were incredibly kind and friendly.
The hotel environment is also exceptionally beautiful, with unbeatable garden views.
Some rooms with sea views overlooked a construction site, which was a bit of a mood killer, and it was slightly noisy during the day.
The beach was just okay, and there weren't many activities, so evenings were a bit boring.FromUS$121
Great132 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14.42km from city centre
This is my second time staying at this hotel, and I love its architecture. The breakfast selection isn't very extensive, which is a bit disappointing for a 4-star hotel. The rooms are decent. There are restaurants and shops nearby. The beach is calm with no waves, but the water is a bit shallow. Beautiful sunrises here!FromUS$76
Very Good144 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!FromUS$32
Great630 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.95km from city centre
The hotel's service, garden landscape, Jimbaran sea view, and lounge dining quality were all outstanding. Service was excellent across the board, from concierge to the restaurants. When I first arrived, a lady from the concierge noticed my taxi driver didn't have change and proactively helped him get some – that was wonderful. The lounge staff were warm and proactive every day, and the lounge food was high quality, delicious, and the ambiance was superb, really making for a perfect vacation feel. I had stayed at this InterContinental years ago and had a great impression then, but this time it felt even better, an upgrade! The hotel also upgraded me to a suite, which was very nice, really fantastic! Highly recommended!FromUS$136
Business travel
Good409 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.FromUS$12
Very Good427 Reviews
Sanur Bali|7.01km from city centre
A very good hotel. There are 4 or 5 restaurants, bars, and cafes on site. They have an entertaining evening program. The grounds are large, beautiful, and green, with two pools (one for children with slides and a basketball hoop, and one for adults with a bar). Both pools are separate, so adults can relax by the pool without the screams and squeals of children. The children's pool has family nest-like sunbeds, which are very convenient. The service is top-notch, and all the staff are friendly. The hotel's location is also convenient, near the main street of Sanur, where there are cafes, shops, and stalls. There's a large parking lot for cars. The breakfast buffet caters to all tastes.FromUS$58
Very Good357 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.FromUS$14
Great778 Reviews
Kuta Bali|9.39km from city centre
I initially thought this would be the most negative review of our entire trip to Bali, but let me explain why it's actually the highest rating, and that's all thanks to the amazing staff. We stayed in many places across Bali and, of course, spent nights in various accommodations. Upon check-in, everything seemed perfect, but then I noticed the floors were dirty and the breakfasts weren't quite what we'd imagined. BUT, the staff called a cleaning crew who cleaned the room perfectly with a huge floor-washing machine! Later, we discovered that we really liked the omelets, chicken, and other varieties at breakfast. It would be a sin to complain given the incredibly low price of the breakfasts. The staff were always friendly and smiling, and I want to give a special thank you to all of them for making our stay so pleasant. The location is fantastic as it's easy to get anywhere; we chose this place primarily for quick access to all points of interest, and it truly is convenient. It's great that there's underground parking, so the scooter doesn't bake in the sun. Later, we decided to order food from the restaurant and asked for it to be delivered to our room; the portions were super large, and the cost was very reasonable. Also, there's a good mix of young and old people here, a great contrast! For those who prefer no insects, we also highly recommend it!FromUS$37
Very Good615 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|7.98km from city centre
Excellent hotel in the heart of Seminyak, perfect value for money! 🔥
I stayed here for several days and was extremely satisfied. The location is just superb – the hotel is on a quiet street, yet all the action, top restaurants, cafes, and beach clubs are literally within walking distance. It's only a short walk to the beach, very convenient for strolls.
The rooms are clean, cozy, and the air conditioning works perfectly, providing relief from the Balinese heat. 💫FromUS$20
Very Good256 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.FromUS$14
Family friendly
Very Good188 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.FromUS$23
Very Good574 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.53km from city centre
I had a great stay at Bintang Kuta Hotel! The location is exceptionally convenient—just a short walk to the beach, local shops, and plenty of dining options, yet quiet enough for a restful night's sleep.
The rooms were clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. The pool area was definitely a highlight, offering a clean and relaxing spot to unwind after a day of exploring. A special mention goes to the friendly and attentive staff who made us feel welcome throughout our stay.
Overall, it offers excellent value for money. I would definitely recommend Bintang Kuta Hotel to anyone looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay in Kuta!FromUS$30
Great859 Reviews
Kuta Bali|11km from city centre
We arrived late that day and had plans to go to Lovina the next, so we booked a hotel closer to the airport to get a good night's rest before heading out. The hotel was very close; we walked there in less than 15 minutes after landing. This Holiday Inn has both an Express and a Resort, so be careful not to go to the wrong one. We actually went to the Resort lobby to check in, which was a bit of a mix-up, but luckily the Express was right next door. The room was quite spacious, clean, and tidy. The rooftop pool was nice too; since we arrived at night, I imagine during the day you'd have great sea and resort views from there. The staff were also very warm and friendly. The only downside was that breakfast was a bit mediocre with limited options, but overall, it offered excellent value for money!FromUS$41
Very Good314 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!FromUS$87
Very Good615 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.1km from city centre
I liked the hotel and its location near the sea. The breakfast food was delicious and varied every day. The only thing I didn't like, which isn't related to the hotel itself, is that there are warungs (food stalls) before the turn to the hotel, and they produce a lot of smoke, especially in the evening. Oh, and the sunsets here are magical, and if it's important to anyone, you can rent sunbeds with towels on the beach.FromUS$29
Great417 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.FromUS$21
Breakfast
Very Good416 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.FromUS$80
Amazing1219 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|19.15km from city centre
Our recent stay at The Apurva Kempinski Bali was, overall, a comfortable and pleasant experience. The resort is grand in scale with striking architecture. The magnificent lobby and large swimming pools are particularly impressive, truly showcasing the elegance of a five-star luxury resort. The hotel's beachfront is also quite nice, featuring clean sand and clear water, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun and ocean views.
As for the room, the decor felt relatively new, clean, and comfortable. The soundproofing and air conditioning performance were both satisfactory, bringing the overall accommodation quality to a very high standard. The staff were professional, friendly, and attentive, living up to the standards expected of a luxury hotel.
However, the dining experience fell a bit short. Although the restaurant service was excellent, the food quality was only average. Breakfast, in particular, failed to fully meet expectations for a hotel of this caliber in terms of both taste and overall quality. Additionally, food and beverage prices were on the higher side with limited value for money, which is an area the hotel could improve upon.
All in all, the biggest strengths of The Apurva Kempinski Bali lie in its grand architecture, well-maintained facilities, beautiful beach, and comfortable accommodation. While the culinary offerings have room for improvement, it remains an outstanding luxury resort overall. Highly recommended for travelers with a generous budget who prioritize resort ambiance and room comfort!FromUS$297
Great600 Reviews
Uluwatu Bali|19.37km from city centre
A beautiful resort with incredible views and exceptional service 🌴
We had a wonderful stay at Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa. The hotel is beautifully located on a hill, and the views from both the lobby and the infinity pool are absolutely spectacular. It is the kind of place where you immediately feel that you can slow down, relax and simply enjoy being there.
The service was exceptional from beginning to end. Everyone was incredibly kind, attentive and welcoming, and throughout our stay we felt genuinely well cared for. A very special thank you to the wonderful team at Clay Craft Restaurant, which we visited every day - they made our breakfasts and meals even more enjoyable with their warmth and hospitality.
And the breakfasts themselves deserve a separate mention. The selection was absolutely incredible - honestly, I don’t think I have ever experienced such a wide variety of breakfast options at a hotel before. Every morning felt like an experience in itself.
Our room was spacious, beautifully designed and extremely comfortable, with a lovely view from the windows. The entire resort is created in a way that makes it very easy to relax, even if you decide to spend the whole day at the hotel.
We also really appreciated the variety of activities offered by the resort and the helpful Uluwatu guide, which made exploring the area even easier.
Renaissance Uluwatu combines beautiful surroundings, comfort, fantastic facilities and truly outstanding hospitality. A wonderful place to experience Uluwatu, but also a destination worth enjoying in its own right. We would happily return. 🩵🌴✨FromUS$124
Great184 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14km from city centre
We decided to stay at this hotel for a night before our fishing trip, and we are so incredibly glad we chose this place! From the moment we arrived, the experience was wonderful. The location is very convenient, and the sea here is just great for relaxing.
A special huge thank you to the staff, who are absolutely sweet and highly responsive. We want to specifically mention Nicho at the reception and the Duty Manager, Ryan Bawa, for their excellent hospitality. Right after we checked in, they even called our room to ask if everything was okay and if we needed anything-such a thoughtful and attentive gesture!
For families, this is a fantastic choice because the nannies in the kids' club are wonderful and take great care of the little ones.
The dining experience was also a big highlight. The food portions are very large and satisfying, and the breakfast is simply excellent. We highly recommend this hotel and will definitely be returning!FromUS$94
Good62 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.FromUS$27
Very Good192 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14.56km from city centre
1. The room service and cleaning is every morning and it’ss clean 🧽🧹.
2. When I ask to open the mangos they helped me to peel the mangos and cut them for me.
3. Every question that I have they are ready to give clear answers and explanations.
4. They can speak English properly (all staffs).
5. I played with the hotel’s cat, it was adorable, I should’ve feed the cat but I don’t have the cat’s food, lol.
6. The girl named Prama or what I forgot 😭 She helped us a lot, from giving information to giving great services, thanks a lot Prama we loved you 😻💗
Good people, I will definitely stay in this hotel again next time when I visit Bali, really recommend this hotel in Nusa Dua 😻💗FromUS$17
Gym
Very Good227 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.FromUS$26
Amazing619 Reviews
Ubud Bali|15.95km from city centre
Staying at Alaya Resort Ubud, the location is right in the center of Ubud, and the environment is decent. The hotel offers some free activities like yoga, coconut scrub making, tea making, and paper doll making. The overall service is quite good, and the spa feels very natural. The breakfast is delicious, and there's a simple afternoon tea every day. The gym is a bit small. Overall, it was a very good experience, although the soundproofing could be better.FromUS$101
Great670 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|17.07km from city centre
While not as good as I imagined, the overall experience was still very pleasant. However, the restaurants and items sold inside are quite expensive, with an additional 10% service charge and 11% tax.FromUS$269
Very Good430 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.64km from city centre
I chose this hotel at the last minute for a 3-night stay before my flight.
It's conveniently located – a 10-minute taxi ride (by car) from the airport, and relatively close to the lively Kuta beach area (about a 20-minute walk). It's not in the very center, which is a good thing, as there's less traffic noise, and the room is quieter than those overlooking the center.
The rooms in the hotel have been renovated at some point, which is noticeable, but the hotel itself is very old, and you can feel that too.
The reception staff wasn't particularly friendly (this was my 4th hotel during the vacation).
On the night of check-in (I was supposed to arrive at noon but got there at midnight – meaning the room could have been cleaned a hundred times over), I found all the bed linen covered in various stains and marks. I called housekeeping, and the guy pulled out new sheets about 12 times in front of me, throwing them away because they were also dirty. Finally, the bed was made with clean linen by 1:30 AM. The next day I found out that the linen is changed daily... since I had already complained, they checked mine; I don't know about others. The towels in the bathroom were old, worn out, and quite grayish, but they were washed. I noticed the floor in the room hadn't been cleaned after the previous guests – they cleaned it. So, upon arrival, I recommend checking your room immediately and providing feedback to the cleaning service; after that, they do a good job and you don't need to remind them.
The hotel breakfasts are delicious, varied, and have an excellent schedule – from 7 AM to 11 AM.
There's a pool – relatively clean (though there's a bar right inside it with many guests who drink and eat there). It has swimming floats, and there's an onsen – a very pleasant addition (it's a shame that unattended toddlers are allowed in – instead of relaxing, you sometimes end up watching them to make sure nothing happens).
There are plenty of sun loungers around the pool, and the towels are free and of good quality.
The grounds have a beautiful garden, very pleasant for a stroll in the shade of palm trees, and to see famous fruits growing.
The hotel has a few sun loungers and umbrellas on the beach – I was there during low tide, and they weren't very popular, so there was always a spot.
The ocean entry has dark and light sand with coral fragments – you either need to enter very carefully or wear special footwear. Even at low tide, it's possible to swim – yes, it's chest-deep in places, but compared to Nusa Dua, where the ocean recedes by 600m, this is a great beach for 'cooling off in the ocean' during low tides.
The sunsets are stunning – no need to go anywhere, right on your beach. To the left is the airport, so you can watch both the sunset and planes landing (almost every 10 minutes).
There is some noise in the rooms from both planes and neighbors, but I wouldn't say it's super loud; it's not soundproofed, but tolerable.
Overall impression – not a 5-star, more like a solid 4-star. If you're not too picky, it's a good budget option (at 5800 rubles per night with breakfast, I think the price equals the quality).FromUS$51
Very Good471 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.FromUS$19
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.FromUS$96
⭐ 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
485 Reviews
The descent is more like rock climbing than hiking, but the view is worth it.US$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
A good water park worth visiting. Even though it's not very crowded, it's hard to find a free lounge chair. But we loved the slides. The lines for the slides are short, with a long line only for one slide, which lasted 30 minutes. There's a wave for surfing and a kamikaze slide. The food in the cafe was delicious. We had a great time, I recommend it!US$35
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
478 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
461 Reviews
We walked through the monkey forest, looked at the monkeys, liked everything, the monkeys behaved calmlyUS$6
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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