Rice terraces, surf beaches, temples, and some of the best-value villas anywhere.
Best months to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Bali is many islands in one: busy surf towns and beach clubs in the south, Ubud's jungle and rice terraces in the centre, quiet volcanic lakes and waterfalls in the north. Deciding which Bali you want is the key to planning.
Traffic is heavy and distances take longer than maps suggest. Two or three bases for a week or more is usually better than moving every night.
Ideal stay
7–10 days
Budget
$ · Budget-friendly
Currency
Indonesian rupiah (IDR)
Language
Indonesian, Balinese; English in tourist areas
Main airport
Ngurah Rai, Denpasar (DPS)
Good for
Beaches, surf, wellness, culture
The full guide
Season by season, a day-by-day plan, where to stay, getting around, costs, and local tips — unlocks with a
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When to go
Dry season (Apr–Oct)
Sunny and less humid; July and August are the busiest.
Wet season (Nov–Mar)
Short, heavy downpours, lush scenery, and lower prices.
Nyepi (March, date varies)
The Balinese Day of Silence — the whole island shuts down for 24 hours, including the airport.
Shoulder (Apr–Jun, Sep)
Good weather with fewer crowds — the sweet spot.
Suggested itinerary
Days 1–3
Ubud: Tegallalang rice terraces, the Sacred Monkey Forest, temple visits, and a Balinese cooking class.
Days 4–5
North and central highlands: Lake Bratan temple, Munduk waterfalls, and the Jatiluwih rice terraces.
Days 6–7
South coast: Uluwatu cliff temple and Kecak dance at sunset, beaches at Bingin or Padang Padang.
Optional
Boat trip to Nusa Penida or the Gili Islands for snorkelling and dramatic cliffs.
Where to stay
Ubud
Culture, yoga, and green views — no beach.
Canggu / Seminyak
Surf, cafés, and nightlife; very busy traffic.
Uluwatu
Clifftop views and surf beaches, more spread out.
Sanur
Calm, family-friendly beach and a boat hub to the Nusa islands.
Getting around
Hire a private driver for day trips — it is affordable and easy to arrange. Ride-hailing apps work in many areas but are restricted in some. Scooter rentals are common but risky; only ride with a valid licence, a helmet, and travel insurance that covers it.
What it costs
Very good value, especially for villas with private pools. Local warungs serve meals for very little. Beach clubs, imported alcohol, and luxury resorts are priced closer to Western levels. Check the current tourist levy payable on arrival.
Good to know
Wear a sarong and sash at temples (usually provided or rented).
Keep belongings secure around the monkeys in Ubud and Uluwatu.
Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach trouble.
Travel information changes often. Prices here are rough guides, and transport, opening hours, and
entry requirements can change without notice. Confirm details with official tourism sites,
operators, and your government's travel advice before you book, and travel with suitable
insurance.
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