1. Ubud: Bali’s Cultural and Artistic Centre

Ubud is one of the best places to experience Balinese art, dance, temples, markets and
tropical scenery. It is also a useful base for exploring central Bali.

The centre can be busy, but quieter villages, rice fields and walking routes are
only a short distance away.

• Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
• Ubud Palace
• Ubud Art Market
• Campuhan Ridge Walk
• Museums and art galleries
• Nearby rice terraces and temples

From Seminyak: Allow approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending
on traffic and your destination in Ubud.

2. Denpasar: Markets, Museums and Everyday Balinese Life

Denpasar is Bali’s provincial capital. It is less focused on tourism than
Seminyak or Ubud and offers a better view of everyday urban life.

Visitors can explore traditional markets, monuments and museums. Denpasar is also
useful when combining a city visit with nearby Sanur.

• Bajra Sandhi Monument
• Bali Museum
• Badung Market
• Cathedral
• Jagatnatha Temple
• Nearby Sanur

3. Seminyak and Kuta: Bali’s Famous Resort Coast

Kuta is lively, busy and known for beginner surfing, shopping and nightlife.
Seminyak is more refined, with private villas, beach clubs, restaurants and
boutiques.

Why Stay in Seminyak?

Seminyak is a practical base for travelers who want restaurants, shopping,
beaches and nightlife within a relatively compact area.

Read the complete guide to

things to do in Seminyak

Why Visit Kuta?

Kuta remains suitable for travelers seeking affordable accommodation, surf
lessons and a busy atmosphere. It is also close to the airport.

4. Uluwatu Temple and the Bukit Peninsula

Uluwatu Temple

stands on a high cliff above the Indian Ocean. It is one of Bali’s most dramatic
temples and an excellent sunset destination.

The area is also famous for beaches, surf breaks and the evening Kecak dance.

• Uluwatu Temple
• Kecak dance performance
• Padang Padang Beach
• Bingin Beach
• Balangan Beach

5. Amed and the Volcanic Coast of East Bali

Amed is a peaceful area of fishing villages, black beaches and coral reefs.

It is one of Bali’s best regions for snorkeling and diving. Nearby Tulamben is
known for the USAT Liberty shipwreck.

• Jemeluk Bay
• Lipah Beach
• Japanese shipwreck snorkeling area
• USAT Liberty wreck in Tulamben
• Sunrise views toward Mount Agung

6. Jimbaran Bay

Jimbaran is known for its broad beach, calmer water and seafood restaurants set
directly on the sand.

It is a convenient base for Uluwatu and the airport. The bay is particularly
popular for sunset dinners.

• Jimbaran Beach
• Seafood restaurants
• Garuda Wisnu Kencana
• Access to Uluwatu and the Bukit Peninsula

Read more about

dinner on Jimbaran Beach

7. Mount Batur Sunrise Hike

Mount Batur rises to approximately 1,717 metres (5633 ft) and is Bali’s best-known sunrise hike.

Most excursions begin very early. The route is steep in places, so suitable shoes,
water and a warm layer for the summit are recommended.

Mount Batur: An active volcano standing 1,717 meters (5633 ft) high in Kintamani, Bali, famous for its dramatic double caldera, vast crater lake, and popular early-morning sunrise treks. Arthamade, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

8. Canggu

Canggu combines surf beaches, cafés, restaurants, fitness studios and nightlife.
It has grown rapidly and can be congested, but it remains popular with younger
visitors and longer-stay travelers.

Batu Bolong Beach, Canggu: Located at the heart of Canggu, this vibrant dark-sand beach is renowned for its consistent surf breaks, lively beach clubs, and panoramic sunset views over the Indian Ocean. Alharomain354, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

• Batu Bolong Beach
• Echo Beach
• Berawa Beach
• Surf schools
• Cafés and beach clubs

9. Tanjung Benoa Water Sports

Tanjung Benoa is known for motorized and recreational water activities. The
sheltered coast is used for parasailing, jet skis, banana boats and other
activities.

Water Sports in Tanjung Benoa: Skimming across the calm, sheltered waters of Tanjung Benoa peninsula—Bali’s premier hub for thrilling marine activities, including jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, and underwater sea walking. Pinterpandai.com, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Choose an established operator, confirm insurance coverage and check what safety
equipment is included.

See the guide to water sports in Bali

10. Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s most recognized sea temples. Its offshore position creates a
striking silhouette, especially near sunset.

Tanah Lot Temple: Perched dramatically on an offshore rock formation along Bali’s southwestern coast, this iconic 16th-century Hindu sea temple (Pura Tanah Lot) is famous for its stunning sunset views and ancient spiritual heritage. Pinterpandai, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The site can become crowded in the late afternoon. Arrive earlier to explore the
surrounding paths before the main sunset period.

11. Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is famous for high limestone cliffs, blue water and dramatic coastal
viewpoints.

Broken Beach (Pasih Uug): Located on the southwestern coast of Nusa Penida island, this unique natural wonder features a massive sunken cove and a dramatic limestone archway that allows ocean waves to flow continuously into a turquoise pool. I Ketut Arnaya, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

• Kelingking Beach
• Broken Beach
• Angel’s Billabong
• Crystal Bay
• Diamond Beach
• Atuh Beach

Travel Tip: While day trips from mainland Bali are popular,
they often feel rushed due to distance and narrow, winding roads.
Staying 1 to 2 nights gives you a much better pace,
letting you visit major spots before the ferry crowds arrive and saving you from crisscrossing the island in a single day.

Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida: Renowned for its iconic T-Rex–shaped coastal cliff formation, turquoise waters, and secluded white sand beach below, Kelingking Beach is one of the most famous scenic viewpoints in Indonesia. Sasuke shinozawa, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

12. Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan

Nusa Lembongan is smaller and generally easier to explore than Nusa Penida. It is
known for snorkeling, mangroves, beaches and relaxed island accommodation.

A bridge connects Lembongan with Nusa Ceningan, allowing both islands to be
explored during the same stay.

• Mangrove forest
• Dream Beach
• Devil’s Tear
• Yellow Bridge
• Snorkeling and diving

13. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Jatiluwih offers one of Bali’s broadest and most impressive rice landscapes. The
area is part of Bali’s UNESCO-recognized cultural landscape connected with the
traditional subak irrigation system.

Walking and cycling routes allow visitors to experience the terraces beyond the
main viewpoint.

14. Bedugul and the Central Highlands

Bedugul has a cooler climate than South Bali and is surrounded by lakes, gardens,
mountain roads and market villages.

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan: Built in 1633, this iconic Hindu water temple seems to float gracefully on the calm waters of Lake Bratan in the cool highlands of Bedugul, Bali. Dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, lakes, and rivers, it is one of Bali’s most famous and sacred landmarks. LukeTriton, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

• Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
• Lake Bratan
• Bedugul Botanical Garden
• Candikuning Market
• Nearby waterfalls and viewpoints

15. Candidasa

Candidasa is a quieter coastal base in East Bali. It is convenient for day trips
to traditional villages, temples and water palaces.

• Lotus Lagoon
• Goa Lawah Temple
• Tenganan village
• Virgin Beach
• Access to Tirta Gangga and Lempuyang

16. Padangbai and Blue Lagoon

Padangbai is a port for ferries and fast boats to Lombok and the Gili Islands.
It is also a small coastal destination with beaches, snorkeling and diving.

Padangbai Beach, Bali: Looking east across the main beach of Padangbai, a scenic coastal village in East Bali known for its colorful traditional fishing boats (jukung) and busy ferry port. Lasthib, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

• Blue Lagoon
• Bias Tugel Beach
• Padangbai Beach
• Silayukti Temple
• Ferry and speedboat connections

17. Tirta Gangga Water Palace

Tirta Gangga is a royal water garden with fountains, pools, sculptures, stepping stones and
landscaped grounds.

Tirta Gangga Water Palace: Built in 1946 by the last Raja of Karangasem, this former royal water palace in East Bali, named after the sacred Ganges—was restored after the 1963 eruption of Mount Agung and remains a popular tourist destination. S A B R I N A B A L I, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

It combines well with Lempuyang Temple, Amed or Sidemen as part of an East Bali
itinerary.

18. Lempuyang Temple

Lempuyang is associated with the famous “Gates of Heaven” view toward Mount
Agung. The lower temple is the most visited section, while the complete pilgrimage
route involves a much longer climb.

Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang: The ornate Naga-carved staircases leading up to the split gates and sacred inner courtyard (jaba tengah) of Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang, located on the slopes of Mount Lempuyang in Karangasem, Bali. Slleong, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

The mirror effect seen in many photographs is normally created by a photographer
using a reflective object rather than by a natural pool.

19. Kintamani

Kintamani is a highland region overlooking Mount Batur and Lake Batur. Its cooler
air and volcanic views make it a popular day-trip destination.

Lake Batur, Kintamani: A solitary wooden hut or fish farm shelter standing amidst the calm waters of Lake Batur, Bali’s largest crater lake, set against the dramatic volcanic backdrop of the Kintamani highlands. Made agus devayana, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

• Mount Batur viewpoints
• Lake Batur
• Penelokan viewpoint
• Hot springs
• Mountain cafés

20. Tampaksiring, Tirta Empul and Gunung Kawi

Tampaksiring is an important cultural area north of Ubud. It contains sacred
springs, temples and ancient rock-cut monuments.

Gunung Kawi, Tampaksiring: Tucked deep inside a lush river valley in central Bali, this 11th-century archaeological wonder features ten massive candi (funeral shrines) measuring over 7 meters high, carved directly into the sheer rock face on both banks of the sacred Pakerisan River. Dedicated to King Anak Wungsu and the Warmadewa royal family, the complex offers a peaceful walk past terraced rice paddies, ancient meditation caves, and tranquil jungle streams. Pinterpandai.com, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

• Gunung Kawi
  
• Tirta Empul
• Mengening Temple

Visitors entering purification pools should follow local instructions, wear the
required clothing and behave respectfully.

21. Lake Bratan and Ulun Danu Bratan Temple

Ulun Danu Bratan appears to float on the lake when water levels are high. The
temple, lake and surrounding mountains create one of Bali’s most recognizable
landscapes.

22. Lovina and North Bali

Lovina is known for black-sand beaches, calm water and a slower atmosphere than
South Bali.

• Lovina Beach
• Early-morning dolphin trips
• Banjar hot springs
• Brahmavihara-Arama
• North Bali waterfalls

Lovina Beach: Located along the quiet northern coast of Bali, this serene stretch of black volcanic sand is famous for its calm, gentle waters and early-morning boat trips to spot wild dolphins swimming in the open ocean. Ken Eckert, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

23. Lake Batur

Lake Batur lies inside the large volcanic caldera below Mount Batur. The area is
used for fishing, agriculture, village life and hot-spring tourism.

The lake is best explored as part of a Kintamani itinerary rather than as a quick
stop on an overloaded day trip.

24. Tuban

Tuban is located close to Bali’s airport. It is useful for the first or final
night of a trip, especially when a flight arrives late or departs early.

• Tuban Beach
• Kelan Beach
• Easy airport access
• Nearby Kuta attractions

25. Sidemen Valley

Sidemen is one of Bali’s most peaceful rural areas. It offers rice fields,
traditional villages, walking routes and views toward Mount Agung.

Sidemen Valley, Bali: Nestled in the shadow of Mount Agung, the tranquil Sidemen Valley is famous for its breathtaking terraced agricultural fields, coconut groves, and traditional Balinese village lifestyle. Adhesaiful, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

It is ideal for travelers who want to slow down after staying in Seminyak or Ubud.

26. Banjar Hot Springs and North Bali Temples

Banjar is known for warm spring pools surrounded by tropical vegetation. It can
be combined with Lovina, Brahmavihara-Arama and nearby waterfalls.

27. Klungkung and Kerta Gosa

Klungkung, also called Semarapura, was an important royal centre. Its best-known
attraction is Kerta Gosa, with painted ceilings, historic court buildings and
landscaped grounds.

• Kerta Gosa
• Floating pavilion
• Klungkung Museum
• Historic royal complex

28. Tenganan Village

Tenganan is associated with Bali Aga traditions, distinctive architecture and
traditional weaving.

Visit respectfully, ask permission before photographing residents and purchase
crafts directly from makers when possible.

Tenganan Village: A glimpse into the peaceful atmosphere of Desa Tenganan, one of Bali’s oldest traditional Bali Aga (indigenous Balinese) villages, renowned for its well-preserved ancient architecture and unique cultural heritage. Arthamade, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

• Tenganan Pegringsingan
• Traditional weaving
• Village architecture
• Nearby Virgin Beach

29. Trunyan Village

Trunyan lies beside Lake Batur and is known for Bali Aga traditions and distinctive
funerary customs.

Trunyan Village: Nestled along the eastern shore of Lake Batur at the foot of Mount Abang, this ancient Bali Aga (indigenous Balinese) settlement is famous for its unique open-air funeral traditions, where bodies are laid under a sacred, fragrant * Taru Menyan* tree that absorbs all decomposition odors. Anggabuana, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The village is normally reached by boat. It should be approached as a living
community and sacred cultural site, not as a spectacle.

30. Museums and Art Galleries in Bali

Bali’s museums help visitors understand the island’s artistic, historical and
spiritual traditions.

• Puri Lukisan Museum
• Agung Rai Museum of Art
• Neka Art Museum
• Rudana Museum
• Blanco Renaissance Museum
• Bali Museum in Denpasar

Read the complete guide to museums in Bali

Museum Bali, Denpasar: Located in the heart of Denpasar, the Bali Museum (Museum Negeri Propinsi Bali) showcases a rich collection of Balinese art, ethnographic artifacts, prehistoric stone tools, and traditional royal relics within classic palace-style architectural pavilions. Sho Horiuchi, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons