16 Best Things to Do in Ubud: What I Loved Most in Bali’s Cultural Heart

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Ubud is one of the top places to base yourself in Bali. It has a lot going on, and it’s easy to miss cool things if you just follow the classic tourist pathways. Many of Ubud’s highlights can be found away from the noisy roads and markets that you’re likely to see at the beginning.

Ubud is much more than just rice fields and yoga classes. It is also waterfalls, temples, art, markets, cooking, jungle rides, volcano hikes, and wellness experiences. My favourite activities are visiting the Monkey Forest and hiking up Mount Batur!

And look, not everything has to be an offbeat adventure. Some spots are touristy, and that’s okay, they’re still fun at the end of the day. Why would they attract mass tourism if they weren’t?

Some activities are quieter and appeal more to slow-paced travellers. Yoga and massages can be enjoyed without the masses you’ll find at the Monkey Forest or surrounding rice terraces.

Here we’re mixing the vintage Ubud hotspots with a few gems that aren’t so well-known, and will appeal to those looking to get away from the most visited areas, and into the lesser-known spots.

Whether you’re treasure hunting at the Antonio Blanco Museum, chasing down the Tegenungan Waterfall, or strolling the serene Campuhan Ridge, each experience will fuel your wanderlust and satisfy your thirsty and probably tired backpacker soul.

Must-See Activities in Ubud

When I say “must-see,” I’m talking about the activities that should give you serious FOMO!

Your trip to Bali remains incomplete until you’ve soared on a jungle swing in Ubud, hiked Mount Batur to witness the breathtaking sunrise, and explored the Tegallalang Rice Terraces.

These dopamine-filled experiences will shape the chapters of your Ubud saga, a narrative you’ll definitely pass down to your grandchildren. So, amp up your journey with this epic lineup of activities below.

	THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN UBUD
MOST SCENIC	Rice Fields Beautiful rice terrace views Explore on an e-bike Cycle through villages and visit temples	VIEW ON AIRBNB
MOST RELAXING	Swing Swing against the jungle backdrop Snap the classic Insta shot Visit the Tegenungan Waterfall	VIEW ON KLOOK
BEST FOR NATURE	Waterfalls Visit four beautiful waterfalls Full-day adventure Discover "secret" waterfalls	VIEW ON AIRBNB
MOST ADVENTUROUS	Jungle Tours Learn how to drive the ATV Drive through the Gorilla cave, Rice Terraces, Stunning Jungles, Rivers, and Waterfalls	VIEW ON AIRBNB
MOST ACTIVE	Hiking Mount Batur Climb Mount Batur before sunrise Enjoy sunrise & breakfast on the summit Immerse yourself in the natural hot springs	VIEW ON AIRBNB

Not every activity will suit every traveller. Some are peaceful, some are touristy, some are sweaty, and some are best done early before the crowds arrive. The ridge walk especially is best before the weather gets hot and you become very hot and bothered!

1. Rice Fields

When you do a Google search of Bali, you’ll no doubt come across photos of the famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud. The endless layers of lush green rice patty fields are pretty damn magical to see. However, it may not be as serene as you think because this place can get BUSY. I mean it’s no surprise, this place is one of the must-visit places in Bali!

If you’re after a more low-key stroll through the rice paddy fields, I’d recommend other options instead. You have some great ones to choose from!

• Tegallalang Rice Terraces: Famous, photogenic, and busy. Best to visit early before the crowds arrive.
• Kajeng Rice Fields: Calmer and closer to town, easy to get to by Grab.
• Penestanan Rice Field Walk: Relaxed and good for wandering around.
• Campuhan Ridge Walk: Better for a scenic walk rather than classic rice terrace views.

Here are my top tips for any rice fields you visit:

• Go early morning or late afternoon – I find Bali’s sun to be sticky and brutal a lot of the time.
• Bring cash for small fees or donations – card payments aren’t really used here.
• Wear shoes you do not mind getting muddy – make sure they’re comfortable too.
• Do not walk on private rice paddies unless allowed.
• Be respectful of working farmers, and ask if you want to take pictures.

You can also take an e-biking tour through the rice paddy fields, which I’d highly recommend 🙂

2. Swing

The Bali swing has become a popular activity in Ubud, and after trying it for myself, I can see why.

Yes, it’s touristy, yes, it’s Insta-focused, but swinging over incredible rice fields is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. My inner child was so happy! The guys who strapped me into the swing also made it a fun time by swinging me super fast and making goofy noises like ‘Kapaw’ or “ZOOM”. I ended up going twice because I had such a blast.

Most hostels in Ubud can offer you guidance on the best swings in the area. In my case, I wandered around the Tegallalang Rice Terraces until I found a breathtaking view for a good old sunset swing sesh. Even my partner went for a go after seeing how much fun I had. I took these tips into account:

• Comparing prices before choosing a swing – they each have their own cost.
• Checking safety setup – adventure in activities in third world countries can be deadly, be cautious.
• Going earlier (or later) for better light and fewer crowds.
• Considering combining with rice terraces or a waterfall – a great idea!
• Not feeling pressured to do it – if it is not your vibe, feel free to skip it.

Hey, I get it. You might be thinking that this is what all tourists do. But once you try it, you will see why everyone tries it at least once. Luckily for you, in the most pristine, jungly corners of Ubud, you can find a swing to enjoy the view. It is also a great Instagram location!

3. Waterfalls

If there’s one thing to do in Ubud that I’d say you absolutely CANNOT skip, it would be chasing beautiful waterfalls. These sheer wonders of nature can be found all around the outskirts of town, and swimming in them was undoubtedly one of the highlights of my Ubud trip.

I’m sure you’ve heard that Bali waterfalls are epic, and it’s Ubud where their magic takes centre stage. Sure, some waterfalls may be more touristy than others, but trust and believe you’ll be able to find the perfect one for you. 

I spent some time channelling my inner child splashing in the Manuaba Waterfall, a quieter option that you may want to check out if you’re looking for something that’s quick and easy to access, but still swimmable. 

But now for the big guns, the most popular falls in Ubud that you can squeeze into a Bali travel itinerary:

• Kanto Lampo Waterfall – Closest to the centre of town, this set of falls is one of the best for swimming, but very popular. I definitely recommend arriving early though to beat the crowds, a hot tip to keep in mind for all Bali falls. Good for pics.
• Tibumana Waterfall – 30 minutes from downtown and you’ll find yourself at the waterfall of your dreams. This is a piece of nature that may even have got you to come to Bali in the first place. Following a 15-minute hike, you’ll find yourself in front of a fantastical flow of water complete with a bright blue pool. It’s a fantastic swimming spot, and a classic jungle waterfall.
• Tegenungan Waterfall – Sitting at the bottom of a steep jungle ravine, this waterfall has landed it a spot among the most popular things to do in Ubud. And most popular means tons of people. The cascade is pretty wide compared to other options, but I’d say the others on the list are more worth your time – unless you’re happy to arrive at 6:30am sharp when gates open.
• Manuaba Waterfall – A serene and swimmable option away from the major falls here.

Going early is essential, and you should defo bring a dry bag to put you belongings in. Water shoes are a good idea, but have some trainers or hiking boots too to reach the waterfalls comfortably. Do check the water conditions though, after rain they can be slippery to walk around, and the water can become muddy. Not cool for Insta! And don’t climb slippery rocks.

Some of the waterfalls have entrance fees, so bring small amounts of cash to prepare for these.

Exhilarating Adventure and Outdoor Activities

When people think of Ubud, the first thing that comes to mind are the relaxing things to do: temples, rice paddy fields, and yoga studios. It’s the kinda place where your inner soul sighs in relief as it’s time to chill out, recharge, and relax… a few downward dogs and warrior poses.

But then there’s the side of Ubud that people don’t usually think of straight off the bat. The adrenaline pumping, near-death experiences! Some of my most special memories in this place were on the wild rivers, white-water rafting, ATV quad biking through lush jungles and temples, and hiking some of Indonesia’s most breathtaking volcanoes!

Make sure you check reviews before booking anything. Safety standards can be dubious in Bali, so it’s best to do good research rather than hopping in with some random operator.

Guys, I’m telling you, Ubud is not only home to some of the most zen activities in Bali but also some of the most EXHILARATING adventures and outdoor activities. Get your blood pumping with our top picks for adventure activities in Ubud below.

4. ATV and Jungle Adventure Tours

Ubud is known for being a chilled tropical paradise, but did you know it is also an adventure hub with tons of adrenaline-pumping activities to indulge in? Some of my favourite activities in Ubud include white water rafting and ATV quad bike riding.

My favourite amazing tour from Ubud comes with both 4WD ATV riding and an epic white water rafting session. It also includes a bunch of extra goodies like lunch, a towel, changing rooms, etc.

ATV tours are fun if you want mud, jungle tracks, rice fields, and a more active day. White-water rafting is more for those who want a soaking wet adventure! Most tours here combine both adventures.

Check what is included: lunch, towels, transfers, safety gear, insurance etc. Insurance is especially important if you don’t have your own (which you definitely should). Again, check all tour operators for safety reviews.

5. Hiking Mount Batur

Hiking in Bali is beautiful. There are some sensational settings for long walks and treks everywhere in central Bali, amongst lush green tropical rainforests, rice fields, gushing waterfalls, and more, Ubud included.

But if you are searching for more adventurous things to do in Ubud, perhaps you might like to try this four-hour morning hike to Bali’s most famous active volcano. Whilst not in Ubud, most tours run from here. We had to be up at 2am for ours, so you’ll need an early night. They generally aim to be up at the summit for sunrise. It takes around 1.5 hours to get there with okay traffic.

These sunrise hikes with breakfast are of fairly average difficulty, but it’s tougher in the dark. I was lucky to have my head torch. It is FREEZING at that time by the way, so bring a good coat. It’s best for active travellers. Hot springs may be included in some tours. And on ours, they even used the volcanic heat to boil eggs for our breakfast!

As always, research tour companies and go with a repuable one.

6. Campuhan Ridge Walk

If you’re looking for a relaxing and gentle hike around Ubud then the Campuhan Ridge Walk is perfect. Situated within walking distance of Ubud centre, or a short hop on the old Grab Bike, it’s a conveniently located way to escape the crowds.

Ubud is known for its incredible nature, lush forests, and meandering rivers, and the Campuhan Ridge Walk offers exactly that. You don’t exactly need solid walking shoes for this: the walk is more than achievable for even the most unfit. But I’d still recommend trainers over sandals or flip flops.

I recommend doing it at sunrise and sunset. I didn’t do this and was sweating out half my bodyweight by the end. Remember Bali is tropical, so much of the physical activity here hits harder than in other parts of the world. It’s a nice nature spot that doesn’t require a tour.

The 2km walk (one-way) begins with a short, relatively steep but not overly challenging uphill section before levelling off above the jungle. From this vantage point, you can take in the sheer beauty of Ubud and the surrounding forests below. 

Be sure to visit the stunning Gunung Lebah Temple before you begin your hike and take some photos of the river before beginning your ascent (you can’t see it from the ridge). And bring lots of water (very important).

Once you pass through the gates at the end of the ridge, continue your walk through the local village and rice terraces of this area. There are also some nice cafes for some food and refreshments before you begin your walk back. I recommend tucking into one of the juices. They’re ultra refreshing on this hot and sweaty walk, and made with fresh fruits! Dragonfruit juice was my favourite.

Cultural and Artistic Experiences

The Balinese culture is one of my favourites in the world. The people of Bali are so incredibly kind and welcoming to every visitor in their home. Ubud is no exception. 

Balinese Hinduism is practiced by more than 80% of the population. The life, colour, and spiritual practices can be seen all over Ubud and there are many ways for us, as tourists, to experience it. Offerings, temples, dance, art, carving, masks, and local ceremonies are all staples of Ubud’s local culture.

One of the simple joys of daily life in Bali is watching the locals make their daily offerings with a thick plume of incense smoke lingering around every corner. If you wait a while, you’ll see all the little birdies, dogs, and ants come and clean them up, ready for a new day of offerings tomorrow.

There are a few particularly incredible cultural and artistic experiences in Ubud and, as always, I’ve got you covered with a list of the most spiritual things to do in Bali.

7. Pura Tirta Empul

Honestly, the Pura Tirta Empul (or, the Holy Water Temple) absolutely exceeded my expectations. I’ve visited many temples during my travels in Southeast Asia but I have never before been submerged in freshwater and dipping my head under spouts of sacred water with little fish swimming between my legs. 

There are 30 gushing water spouts and you queue up to dip your head under each in a purification ritual known as melukat. The temple is frequented by many locals and travellers alike who partake in the ritual. Just be sure to ask permission if you want to take photos of them.

I had to wear a sarong here (both genders must do this), and follow the temple rules. Ladies, I’m afraid if you’re menstruating, you can’t come in. It’s an active holy temple, so don’t disrespect the rules. You can’t use soap, shampoo or suncream either, and must keep the noise down inside. Don’t point your feet towards a priest. Also, bring a change of clothes for afterwards.

In Bali, it’s rare to find a tourist attraction that doesn’t feel overly touristy (however, I did visit in March which may have been why…). Sure, there were shops with people trying to sell you things on the way out but inside the temple, it was pretty damn special. It’s easily one of the best spiritual things to do in Ubud.

8. Ubud Palace Legong Dance Show

I attended the Palace Legong Dance Show when I first arrived in Ubud, and it was the perfect way to start my trip. This show is a truly captivating display of Balinese culture and artistic expression. You can usually find these shows in many places throughout Bali, but the Ubud Palace makes this one unique.

The Ubud Palace is located in the heart of Ubud, and is home to the king and princess. You can visit throughout the day and then go after 6pm to see the dance.

If I were to describe the dance, it would be challenging as so many things are happening. The dance is a form of storytelling that is hypnotic, especially with the hand gestures and movements. You will have to see it for yourself to understand! You’ll also get the chance to hear Gamelan music, which is a genre I wasn’t familiar with before coming here.

It’s easy to get here and to get tickets. But be sure to arrive early for the best seats. They put on different performances each night, so come back on a different day and you won’t be seeing the same thing!

9. Shop for Traditional Balinese Masks

As you wander through the back lanes of central Ubud, you’ll definitely notice the array of colourful ‘demon’ masks on display in the little boutiques.

Well, these traditional wooden masks are not mere decorative items mass-manufactured for tourists, they are (or at least were originally…) crafted for use in sacred performances and hold a special place in the island’s ancient, unique cultural practices. 

Shopkeepers are usually artisans themselves (or are closely tied to the craft) and they love sharing insights about the myths and craftsmanship behind each piece. Bargaining is expected in many of the local markets so bring your haggle game.

Sellers will quote a higher price initially, so feel free to counter-offer with about half the asking price and work from there. Remember, the goal is to reach a fair agreement that reflects the value of craftsmanship. Just be sure not to get ripped off though. The most important thing to remember is never to accept the first price.

Relaxation and Wellness Options

Relaxation and Wellness.. now this is where your mind may go when you think of Ubud. The relaxation and wellness options in Ubud are endless. Fancy a yoga class? Or maybe a massage? You won’t be short of activities to look after your body, soul and mind here.

Sound healing, retreats, clean cafes, spas and meditation spaces are also on offer here. Just remember that “wellness” isn’t a guaranteed transformation. Some people believe in it, others don’t notice any difference, so be sure to manage your expectations.

10. Massage

Massages are super easy to find in Ubud, with simple budget options and high-end spas on offer, and everything in between!

Massage, massaaaaaaaaage. When first hearing the call, one might be sceptical and let it pass. But the next day it happens again, and you kinda wanna give it a try. Then you do, and you’re so glad you did, you feel at peace and you sleep like a baby that night.

I love a good massage, though they’re too expensive back home so I rarely ever do them. But when 5 bucks can get you a pair of well-trained hands dancing all over your body… in a strictly therapeutic way… you’d be a loco to pass up on that offer.

Ubud is probably the place where I’ve done the most massages in Bali. And in my life.

Massage parlours are EVERYWHERE, so it’s easy to walk and pick. Just go with a well-reviewed one or one that your accommodation recommends. Watch out though, there are some illegal parlours running that offer, erm, “extra services” shall we say… You should try to avoid those. Or perhaps that’s what you wanted to begin with…

I recommend a foot massage after a long day of walking or easing the burden of your backpack with a soothing shoulder and back massage. Or, you know, go full-on full-body. Let the therapist know if they’re going too strong.

Rinse and repeat until it’s time to float back home dreaming of the next time you’ll be back in Bali.

11. Yoga

Yoga is one of those spiritual activities in Ubud that you simply can’t leave without experiencing at least once. Imagine hearing the sounds of the jungle beneath a bamboo shala, inhaling a variety of aromas from essential oils. I feel relaxed just writing about it.

Ubud is one of the best places for it. Beginners and experienced yogis alike will get something out of it. You can find one-off classes, full-on retreats, teacher training sessions or workshops here.

Even if you aren’t flexible or have no idea what yoga is, Ubud has world-class yoga studios that will help guide the way. I personally recommend Yoga Barn and Alchemy. They are both INCREDIBLE yoga studios that offer everything from beginner classes to acro yoga for the pros. Prices are higher than in smaller studios elsewhere though.

If you have the time, you should join yoga retreats in Ubud. After a week of jungle, waterfalls, clean eating, and yoga practice you will be completely zen…

Lush greenery, an earthy scent of the woods, and swinging through the warm Balinese air at sunrise… Can you think of a more romantic setting for couples? Guess not. 

Ubud is the kind of place that whispers ‘slow down’ and draws you in to savour every moment with your loved one. 

You can walk through rice fields hand-in-hand, cool down under waterfalls together, visit the spa, go to yoga, go mask shopping at the markets… the possibilities are almost endless!

Start the journey in the charming Ubud’s villages, exploring hidden gems and local life hand in hand. And if you’re craving an adrenaline rush, hike up to watch Mount Agung’s sunrise together. It’s one of the experiences that will stick with you. 

Come the end of the day, you can pop out for dinner under the candlelight in one of Ubud’s many open-air shacks. Then head back to a nice villa for a swim before bed.

Leaving this haven of romance won’t be easy, but you’ll carry with you memories to last a lifetime AND… some lovely Insta pics, each one a testament to the journey you shared together.

12. Ecstatic Dance

You may not be aware that as well as being spiritual Bali’s beating heart, Ubud is also the island’s hippy-holiday camp where long-term travellers go to wear white, drink matcha, and exchange heart-hugs.

Well, Ecstatic Dance is what Bali’s wellness-focused new-age travellers do for fun 2 or 3 nights a week. It’s basically a sober rave where DJs blast out tribal beats, afro house and new-age-techno while Bali’s sweaty bohemians shake their chakras and tune up their tantra. It’s popular with wellness-focused travellers, and those staying a little longer here.

While the music can be a bit twee sometimes, it’s all actually good fun. Being able to dance completely sober is a challenge for many which is why I recommend going with your partner for a bit of encouragement, but rest assured that Ecstatic Dance is a judgement-free-space and nobody is watching you.

There are a number of different places doing Ecstatic Dance on different nights. You could try RISE at the stunning Alchemy Yoga and Meditation Center or The Yoga Barn. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re into the hippy lifestyle, you may well love it!

13. Kanto Lampo Waterfall

Bathing together under a waterfall in the middle of nature is probably one of the best things to do in Ubud as a couple. Nature, water, unique scenarios and some love. And Kanto Lampo is my pick specifically for couples as it has that romantic edge to it that the others don’t have so much of.

To get to the area where the waterfalls are involves a short walk through the jungle, which isn’t too taxing, so you don’t need to build up much of a sweat with your other half.

Once there you might have to pay a small entrance fee. Avoid tour groups and crowds by getting early in the morning or later in the afternoon. You’ll find some locals willing to help you get the perfect picture for a tip. They really know the right spot and make some good shots. 

The waterfall is not that big but it’s still impressive. The water cascading down the rocks and the light coming through the trees reflecting on the water create the perfect scenario for some romantic pictures.

14. Shopping

Ubud Market is surely the best place in Bali to get all the goodies such as sarongs, clothes, bags, souvenirs, those little wooden frogs that ribbit if you run the wooden stick down its back, and small gifts. The artisan culture in this town is second to none and you can get all sorts of colourful and unique trinkets for a really fair price. 

In other parts of Bali, you won’t see this quantity or quality of shops, so make the most of the opportunity while you’re here. Quality varies though, so look carefully before buying. Bargaining is expected here, so be sure to haggle to a respectable price, otherwise you’ll get ripped off.

You don’t want to do what I did and leave Ubud thinking they’ll have the same calibre of markets over the rest of the island. I can assure you: they don’t. Look to the boutiques instead of the markets for higher quality items with fixed prices. And go early for fewer crowds.

The best thing about making this a couple activity is having someone to follow you around and give you compliments on everything you try on. Follow it up with a coffee and a nice dinner and you’ve got yourself one fine, memorable travel experience with the best souvenirs to take home. 

When it’s kids’ time, there’s often a tempting desire to “get out and do things,” which is hella-fun in Ubud. 

All the experiences above are awesome for family bonding but I was a kid once and I’d be bursting with joy at the chance to spend time at the Ubud Monkey Forest, exploring local markets, and trying delish food. OR… lacing up my shoes and going for a thrilling hike. Dance shows and rice fields are fun to do as well!

HOWEVER, don’t be fooled into thinking that kid-friendly activities are only for the little ones. Ubud is so much more exciting when you unleash your inner child and embrace any experience that just seems fun.

Plan around a few things to get the best experience though. Do things early in the morning or at sunset to avoid the worst of the heat. Early mornings are also best for avoiding the traffic. And Ubud can be tiring, so if you do activities with walking involved (such as the Monkey Forest), mix it up with more chilled pastimes, like taking a dip in the pool at your villa.

15. Monkey Forest

The Monkey Forest in Ubud is surely a unique thing to do. This nature reserve in the town is home to a huge tribe of well-looked-after long-tailed macaques that roam freely. It’s one of my favourite activities here, and a “must” every time I come back to Ubud.

It’s very easy to visit from the centre, but the macaques roam freely inside, and they can be very cheeky, so you’ll need to follow some rules to stay safe.

Firstly, you should NEVER bring food. These naughty devils will rip your bags apart if they sense any snacks, and they are skilled thieves. So crafty that they’d fit in well in London or Paris! Don’t stare into their eyes either, as this can provoke them. Teasing them is also asking for trouble.

Also secure your glasses. Whilst we had no incidents here, my girlfriend had her glasses swiped by a macaque in Uluwatu. I had to dive onto the concrete to catch them when the monkeys got bored with their new toy, and that wasn’t the most fun experience!

Monkeys can be dangerous. They could have rabies or other diseases. During my first visit here in 2019, I was dumb enough to feed a monkey and let it crawl over me (see the picture at the top). I’ve since learned that’s a silly thing to do. Cool pic, yes, but the risks aren’t worth it. And monkeys can leave a nasty scratch behind.

You can see monkeys around town. But the forest is a more fun environment where you’ll see dozens, even hundreds of them. You may even spot other wildlife too. A snake lunged towards me as we left. No idea if it was venomous, but I don’t want to get close enough to find out…

16. Pondok Pekak Library

Although this is one of the best things to do with kids in ubud, this library and learning centre is hardly just for kids, adults may enjoy it too, but they’re the best kinds of places! It’s such a cool place to understand more about Balinese culture in an artistic and creative way. 

They have loads of art classes where you can get into painting, music, or fruit carving. You can make unique pieces of jewellery in silver classes or try your hand at some Balinese dancing. 

You should check class times and availability before going. It’s a great rainy day activity for when Bali’s tropical storms strike!

Your Ubud experience greatly depends on where you choose to rest your head. As a savvy backpacker, I’ve spent countless hours scouring Booking.com for the ideal spot and parsing through reviews.

The sheer number of places to stay will make your head spin. Choosing where to stay in Ubud is pretty pivotal to how your experience in this town will go.

If you aren’t renting a bike and you’re going to be walking everywhere, you’ll want to make sure you’re staying close to all the things you want to do in Ubud. Trust me, you’ll enjoy the experience way more and cram so much more into your itinerary. Location, location, location…

Whether you’re seeking self-catering vacation rentals, cool hostels, or unique Airbnb-like properties, there’s something that exceeds your expectations. Let your intuition lead the way, but allow us to lend a hand in selecting the perfect haven for you.

Pillow Inn Ubud – Best Hostel in Ubud

Bali hostels have a lot to offer from the inside out. High-speed Wi-Fi, super comfy beds, an epic location, and staff that goes above and beyond to make your stay the absolute best.

You can start your day with a complimentary breakfast, take a dip on the rooftop pool, or enjoy a free yoga class to find your zen before embarking on your adventures! For me, it’s a no-brainer, I gotta push for my fav; Pillow Inn Ubud. it’s such a gem that I’m sure you’ll love.

Jepun Bali Ubud Homestay – Best Homestay in Ubud

A lot of great things to do in Ubud start at the place you’re staying. There is a pretty insane number of temples in Ubud – and the cool thing about this town is that a lot of the places to stay are built to accommodate the temples, like this amazing homestay in Ubud centre.

The hosts were amazing and the free breakfast was stand out. I was even there during Nyepi, The Balinese Hindu New Year which was cool. 

Entire villa Ethnic Ubud – Best Villa in Ubud

One of the most relaxing things to do in Ubud (in my opinion) is to rent a nice villa in the Ubud area with a nice group of friends, your partner, or your family. In fact, Ubud Airbnb is the perfect place to stay.

Sit back and relax in your pool as the villa staff (or your hyper children) pass you fresh coconuts. Can you really beat that? Or you could go for a floating breakfast with a special someone, you know, go full Bali! 

Get Insured Before Your Ubud Trip

Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Ubud.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Hire the Best Balinese Driver – Pak Edy

Hiring a driver literally takes all the guesswork and stress out of your trip. From knowing the best shortcuts that don’t result in parking in a rice paddy to planning out the most incredible Balinese adventure, Pak Edy has it covered. 

With years of experience, Balinese local Edy knows the absolute best spots to visit on the island and how to tailor your adventure to your interests and needs. He also knows exactly where the most incredible and authentic food can be found in Bali.

Call or Text +62 812-3765-6124 on WhatsApp to book Pak Edy for your Balinese adventure.

Ubud is easy to rush through in 2 days, “tick off” by doing the Monkey Forest and a volcano hike, then heading off elsewhere (basically what I did first time around), but there’s so much more than that here.

The best experiences are a mix of culture, nature, food, wellness, and slow wandering. I love the nature side of things, but learned to enjoy it more when I came back and soaked up more culture and relaxation.

The Monkey Forest and Tegallalang Rice Terrace are the star attractions, but Ubud offers a pretty impressive undercard once you look beyond the surface. Throw in a waterfall, have a massage, go to a cultural show, do the ridge walk. You’ll get that full Ubud experience and can leave satisfied you haven’t missed anything.

Stay central if short on time, or on the outskirts if you want peace. I’ve done both, and definitely prefer being central. It got kinda boring on the outskirts if I’m honest. The centre always has stuff going on at both day and night.

Ubud can be touristy, but I find it to be a lot of fun. Remember, if a place is “touristy”, it means it has a lot of cool stuff to see and do. People love it for a reason!

Give Ubud a few days, wake up early, leave room for slow walks and unexpected stops, and you will understand why travellers keep coming back.