Places to See in Bali: Cool, Cultural & Scenic Spots You’ll Love

651

From misty mountain temples and cascading rice terraces to mesmerising dances and ancient palaces, the Island of the Gods is full of authentic cultural experiences and attractive landscapes. Whether you’re visiting for a relaxing escape or an immersive cultural adventure, these are the very best places to see in Bali.

Disclosure: I may earn compensation from the purchase of any product or service linked on this website, at no extra cost to you. I only link to products I use and love, therefore feel comfortable recommending.

Is Bali Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Bali is a dream destination for travellers seeking beauty, spirituality and connection. Due to its popularity, you may have to work a little harder or go a few steps further, but it’s still possible to find tranquil corners and deep cultural insight. Balinese Hinduism, traditional architecture, dramatic scenery and legendary hospitality combine to create a one-of-a-kind experience. The best places to see in Bali reflect the island’s rich spiritual and natural heritage.

Bali offers a spectrum of experiences, from soul-soothing nature and captivating culture to world-class food and surf. It’s one of those rare destinations where budget travellers, luxury seekers, solo adventurers and couples alike can all find their slice of paradise.

Best Time to Visit Bali

There are two big considerations when planning your trip to Bali: weather and festivals. Timing your trip well will ensure you experience the island at its most magical.

Weather

Bali’s tropical climate means there are two distinct seasons: wet and dry. The ideal time for visiting falls in the shoulder season between: April-May and September-October, especially if you’re looking to surf.

Dry season (April to October)

Sunny days and minimal rain make this the best time to visit Bali, especially for outdoor adventures and sightseeing. Expect warm days with average highs around 31°C (88°F) and lower humidity. The dry summer months can be particularly busty, especially July and August.

Wet season (November to March)

Expect heavy but short-lived downpours, especially in the afternoons. The upside? Fewer crowds and lush green landscapes. This is a great time to explore Bali’s cultural sights, waterfalls and indoor attractions.

Cultural Events

Bali’s spiritual calendar is packed with unique ceremonies and festivals. Theses observances may add to your cultural experience, or just make your vacation more expensive. Check this extensive calendar of events for your dates.

One very important date to note is Nyepi (Balinese New Year). This is a six-day celebration, but with one specific date that will affect visitors: the day of complete silence. During this 24-hours all businesses are closed, transport shuts down and all activity on the island ceases. The date changes each year based on the Balinese calendar system, but usually falls sometime in March.

Is Bali safe for tourists?

Yes, Bali is generally safe for tourists. The biggest risks are petty theft (keep your valuables secure), scooter accidents (always wear a helmet if you’re riding), the ubiquitous timeshare sales pitch (mind the scam), bogan Australians (the ones wearing Bintang singlets) and maybe a case of Bali Belly (avoid the tap water).

Be cautious around wild or stray animals and follow local advice when hiking or swimming. In terms of cultural respect, dress modestly and speak quietly when visiting temples. Don’t interrupt ceremonies or touch offerings and request permission before whipping out your camera.

Like all highly touristed areas in developing nations, you’ll find someone willing to take advantage of your relative affluence. Check ATMs for skimming devices, count money into person’s hand when paying with cash (so they can’t dispute/switch out bills), and agree with your taxi driver on using the meter or a flat rate before jumping in their vehicle.

As always, make sure you have travel insurance including medical coverage. For more travel safety and security tips, see this post.

Where to Stay in Bali? (And Who You’ll Bump Into)

Bali isn’t a one-size-fits-all island—it’s more like a buffet of personalities. Whether you’re here for romance, relaxation, or an epic night out, picking the right base can make or break your Bali experience. Here’s your tongue-in-cheek guide to where to stay and who you’ll sharing your space with.

Canggu

Canggu is Bali’s Brooklyn-by-the-sea. It’s got beach bars, smoothie bowls, serious street art and co-working spots that serve oat lattes with a side of influencer. You’ll spot shirtless crypto bros on Zoom, content creators “just vibing”, and a healthy rotation of sunset DJs. It’s also a number one pick for surfers.

Ubud

Welcome to Bali’s soul centre. Ubud is lush, peaceful, and packed with culture. You’ll find sacred temples, jungle swings, and locals selling handmade crafts alongside tourists trying to find themselves. If you’re wondering what to do in Ubud, it’s all about rice terraces, monkey forests and wellness retreats.

Seminyak

Seminyak is chic, sharp, and Insta-perfect. You’ve got rooftop bars, designer shops, and some of the best Bali beach clubs—from Potato Head to Ku De Ta. It’s stylish but still vibey enough to party until the early hours.

Bukit Peninsula

Nusa Dua, on the eastern coast of the Bukit Peninsula, is Bali’s polished side. Think gated luxury resorts, manicured lawns, and calm beaches perfect for doing absolutely nothing. If you’re wondering what to do in Nusa Dua, the answer might be “nap by the pool” or “another cocktail”.

On the western coast of the Peninsula, Uluwutu, sits perched on limestone cliffs with jaw-dropping views. This area offers some of the best beaches in Bali, surf for days, and luxurious cliffside stays. Whether you’re into beach club lounging or exploring sea temples, you’ll love the laid-back sophistication here.

Sanur

Sanur has an old-school charm and a sleepy pace, and ideal place to stay in Bali for families. The beach promenade is perfect for early morning strolls, and the gentle waves are ideal for little ones or anyone not keen on battling big surf.

How to get around Bali

There’s a variety of ways to get around Bali. Here’s a few options for exploring coastal towns and beach-hopping, or longer distance, cross-island adventures.

Kura Kura is a tourist shuttle that operates one route Kuta to Ubud via Sanur and Ngurah Rai International Airport. You can download the Kura-Kura bus app to track the service and tickets can be purchased through the official website.

Scooter rental is the most flexible and fun (or harrowing depending on your perspective) way to explore—ideal for confident riders. You need a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by your home country, to rent in Bali. Additionally, make sure you know the local road rules, wear a helmet, avoid driving at night and check your travel insurance covers you.

Private drivers are a great value option for day trips or longer distances. You can easily hire one through your accommodation or a trusted local provider. We rented a driver for a day to cover some of the island’s interior and it was a very cost-effective, comfortable and easy way to see a lot in a short space of time.

Rideshare apps, Grab (cars) and Gojek (scooters), operate in major towns. However, they may not be available in rural or tourist-restricted areas. Note, you will also need mobile data in order to use these services. Check out my post on eSIMs are the most cost-effective way to access data when travelling. Also, be aware there is increasing conflict between the traditional taxi industry and rideshare services in Bali. Certain streets are have signs excluding rideshare vehicles, and you need to be aware of these when setting your pick-up and drop-off location.

Walking is an easy and free way to navigate short distances in Ubud, Canggu and Seminyak, but footpaths can be uneven or non-existent. Flat, sturdy walking shoes recommended!

The best places to see in Bali

From misty volcano peaks and lush rice terraces to spiritual ceremonies and seaside lounging, Bali is bursting with unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re after romantic escapes, yoga retreats or hiking adventures, this list of things to do in Bali covers the island’s best offerings. Here are some unmissable highlights to inspire your next trip.

Visit a Stunning Waterfall

Chase waterfalls through Bali’s mountainous, rainforest interior. From easily accessible spots to hidden gems that require a trek, Bali’s waterfalls are pure magic. Popular options include Tegenungan Waterfall near Ubud and the spectacular Sekumpul Waterfall in the island’s north.

Explore rice terraces and rural landscapes

Bali’s rice terraces are postcard-perfect and steeped in local culture. Some are even collectively UNESCO Heritage Listed as the Cultural Landscape of Bali Province for its use of the Subak irrigation system.  

Tegallalang Rice Terraces are the most popular, located just outside Ubud, but if you’re seeking quieter Bali sightseeing options, the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces offer serene views and fewer crowds. Sidemen Valley is another option for less-visited rice terraces, replete with Bali’s highest peak, Mount Agung, as a backdrop.

Discover sacred temples

The island’s Hindu temples are some of the most unique places to see in Bali. Pura, the local word for Hindu temple complexes, offer insight into the Bali’s blend of Hindu tradition and animist beliefs. Uluwatu Temple is perched dramatically on a cliff. Similar to its west-facing neighbour Tanah Lot, Uluwatu is perfect for sunset viewing and one of the top things to do in Bali for couples.

Inland, visit the water temple of Pura Tirta Empul for a traditional purification ritual. Another photogenic Pura is Ulun Danu Beratan, which appears to float serenely on Lake Beratan, located at roughly 1231-metres (4040-ft) above sea level.

If you’re visiting the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, make a stop at Pura Taman Ayun, the royal water temple of the Mengwi kingdom, originally built in 1634 and part of the UNESCO-listed Subak complex of sites.

Unwind at the Best Bali Beach Clubs

Whether you’re spending the day poolside or enjoying sunset cocktails, the best Bali beach clubs are found in hotspots like Seminyak, Uluwatu, and Canggu. While I’ve never been to any of them myself (beach clubs aren’t my scene), I have it on high authority that Seminyak’s Potato Head and Ku De Ta are top choices. La Brisa in Canggu is perfect for a boho Bali vibe.

Enjoy the Best Beaches in Bali

The best beaches in Bali vary based on your preferences from secluded sandy stretches to surf-worthy waves. Nusa Dua is perfect for swimming and sun-lounging, with calm, clear water and soft sand—great for families or couples wondering. Advanced surfers gravitate to Echo Beach orBingin. Snorkelling fan? Try the east coast starting at Blue Lagoon near Padangbai and north toward Amed and Tulamben are top picks for marine life.

Take a Sunrise Volcano Trek

If you’re up for adventure, climb Mount Batur in the early hours for a spectacular sunrise. This active volcano trek is one of the most thrilling and rewarding things to do in Bali, offering panoramic views over misty lakes and nearby peaks. Guided hikes include headlamps, breakfast and local insight.

A less active option or for those short on time, is to dine at one of the restaurants in Kintamani, with sweeping views of Mount Batur. Kintamani is perched on the outer caldera rim of Mt Batur, with uninterrupted views across the volcanic landscape.

Catch a Balinese Dance or Cultural Performance

If you’re seeking unique things to do in Bali, don’t miss a traditional dance performance. These dramatic storytelling rituals combine intricate costumes, percussive gamelan music and hypnotic movement. See a Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple or a classic Legong Dance at Ubud Palace. It’s one of the most memorable things to do in Bali for culture-lovers.

Plan a day trip to one of the neighbouring Nusas

The neighbouring cluster of islands: Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan are just a short boat ride away from southeastern Bali. They offer jaw-dropping scenery, from dramatic cliffs to secluded beaches. These make for epic day trips or overnight escapes.

Hit the road to explore Bali’s countryside and coastal gems. Wind through the Sidemen Valley for village life and volcano-backed rice fields. Another scenic option is taking the ferry (or fast boat) to the smaller island of Nusa Penida. Here you’ll find those jaw-dropping cliffs and crystal-clear water. Jump on a dive or snorkel tour to enjoy the manta rays and other aquatic life offshore.

Nusa Penida: Dramatic cliffs, jaw-dropping viewpoints like Kelingking Beach aka T-Rex Bay, and epic snorkelling with manta rays make Nusa Penida a wild and adventurous day trip or overnight escape.

Nusa Lembongan: Laidback vibes, surf-friendly breaks, and chilled-out beach bars define Nusa Lembongan, the most developed and easiest to explore of the three islands.

Nusa Ceningan: The smallest of the trio, Nusa Ceningan is all about hidden cliff jumps, scenic coastal walks and Blue Lagoon’s impossibly turquoise waters—all connected by a photogenic yellow, pedestrian bridge from Nusa Lembongan.

Indulge in a Spa Day or Wellness Retreat

From luxury resort spas to humble local massage huts, Bali is a global hotspot for wellness. Treat yourself to a Balinese massage, flower bath, or full-day spa ritual. Ubud and Nusa Dua are top places for these experiences, making them perfect for honeymooners or anyone wondering about romantic things to do in Bali for couples.

Learn a local craft or cooking skill

Join a workshop to connect with Bali’s creative soul. Try your hand at batik, basket weaving or silver jewellery making. Take a Balinese cooking class, or learn how to make canang sari (daily offerings) from a local.

Sip, Swirl, Sample: Go Coffee Tasting in the Highlands

Head inland to the cool, misty hills around Ubud or Kintamani for a Balinese coffee tasting experience that’ll perk you right up. You’ll get to sample a range of traditional Balinese brews, often served up in lush garden settings with views of rice paddies or volcanic peaks. Think robust arabica, smooth vanilla coffee, and spiced blends like ginger or ginseng. It’s not just a tasting—it’s a mini flight of local flavours served in tiny cups.

And yes, you’ll almost certainly be offered a cup of kopi luwak, also known as civet coffee. It’s made from beans that have passed through the digestive tract of a small, tree-dwelling mammal called the Asian palm civet. Some swear it’s the smoothest cuppa around, others can’t get past the fact it’s, well… poop coffee. Either way, it’s a uniquely Bali experience—if you’re game.

Tip: Be an ethical sipper. Look for plantations that support wild or free-roaming civets, rather than those that cage them for production.

Whether you’re visting Bali for sunsets and smooches, spa days and surf, or smoothies and spiritual awakenings, there’s a spot to suit. See what to pack for Bali in my guide to packing for a tropical vacation.

Peace, love & inspiring travels,

Madam ZoZo

Pin for later…