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Plan Your Bali Holiday: Best of Bali

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Explore Bali

Bali packs a lot into one small island— from breathtaking waterfalls like Sekumpul in the north to the white sand beaches of Nyang Nyang in the south. Whatever you’re seeking, you’ll probably find: surf-able waves in Batu Bolong, all-night clubs in Seminyak, luxury clifftop hotels in Nusa Dua, and spiritual refuges all around. Snap a pic at the Gateway to Heaven, cut through the jungle to the hidden Gunung Kawi Temple, and catch the sunset and a traditional fire dance at Uluwatu Temple. Just don’t miss the markets—hunt for handcrafted artwork and textiles at the Sukawati Art Market, or snack on street food staples like satay and bakso at the Sindhu Night Market. For even more tastes and things to do, check out our recs below.
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Essential Bali

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Travel Advice

My favourite street markets in Bali

The street markets of Bali are a treat for the senses. Colourful silks, sparkling artisanal jewellery…even the sizzling street food is pure eye candy. I’ve checked out almost all of the markets on the island and these are my top five recs that are so worth braving the crowds to visit. Be sure to bring your appetite, and an extra bag for your loot.
jennifercruznguyen, Toronto, Canada
  • Gianyar Street Night Market
    158
    Known as “Pasar Senggol Gianyar” to locals, the Gianyar Street Night Market is famous for its street food. (I took a guided tour here with Tripbylocals and thought it was well worth the price.) Among the Indonesian delicacies to sample here are satay, suckling pig, serombotan (Balinese salad), lempog (cassava cake), and kue ongol ongol (Indonesian mochi). My favourite though is the klepon, a coconut-covered rice cake.
  • La Brisa
    1,284
    La Brisa beach club hosts a market every Sunday and it’s a must-visit for anyone who prefers a more relaxed, curated experience. You can shop for organic produce, baked goods, and natural beauty products, all surrounded by lush greenery and fisherman boats. Don’t miss Bokashi Bali, a farm-to-table grocery store selling homemade honey, essential oils, and more.
  • Frog Market
    11
    Pasar Kodok (a.k.a. Frog Market) is Bali’s best-kept secret for thrifters. Explore the block and a half of stalls and you’ll discover both vintage and contemporary second-hand clothing from all over Central Asia. While you won’t need to fight off other tourists, you will need to sift through racks and racks of clothing, so bring your patience, a bottle of water (it can get hot in the shops), and a sharp eye.
  • Ubud Traditional Art Market
    1,843
    My obsession with Bali started when I first saw Eat, Pray, Love. If you’re also a fan of the film, don’t miss the Ubud Art Market—it’s where the market scene was filmed. Also known as Pasar Seni Ubud, this spot has a great selection of handmade souvenirs (oil paintings, silk scarves, kites) as well as excellent produce and spices toward the east end of the market.
  • Sukawati Art Market
    419
    Expect to find a bit of everything here from wooden house decor and colourful sarongs to rattan bags. Pasar Seni Sukawati is also one of the more affordable markets in Bali (especially if you buy in bulk) and is entirely indoors, which is nice on rainy or super hot days.
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Bali Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Bali

AngL

Yes, you do need to be careful crossing the road because the traffic can be crazy, however, I would have to be careful crossing a busy road near where I live.

Kieran

Taxis are so easy to get all-around Bali, so don’t stress about that. You’ll need cash for them though unless you’re using an app like Grab which is really popular.

ShutupGreg

Do a lot of research but don't micro-plan every minute of your stay... it will all fall into place.

Rhonda C

Surfing, scuba diving, great eats, and very friendly people are what Bali is all about to me. And, of course, you can't go to Bali without a massage.

Rick M

Bali is a fantastic place for all travelers, young and old alike. I've been traveling to this fantastic tropical oasis for the past 30 years and I've seen a lot of changes in that time. It is my hope and wishes that you will find Bali to be one of your favorite places too.

Joannes Rhino

Beaches are Bali’s best asset, apart from its gorgeous cliff-side resorts, rooftop bars, and celebrity weddings. But have you ever heard of a beach with black sand, or one so exclusive you can find the rich and famous? This tropical island boasts many such secret places tucked away in its little corners, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea far away from the crowd.

Lynne P

Sun, sand, tropical forests, luxurious resorts, heavenly spas, and a food lover's paradise — whether you're celebrating a wedding, honeymoon, anniversary, Valentine's day, or simply want to enjoy some quality time together away from the humdrum of day-to-day life, indulge in the best of what romantic Bali has to offer!

What is the best way to get there?

flying

Bali is served by one airport: the Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), just 13 km (~8mi) south of Denpasar, the capital of Bali and the main gateway to the island. Flights from major international cities regularly fly in and out of DPS. It is also well connected to most of Indonesia and has regular domestic flights connecting it to major cities within the country.

bus

Travelers can take a bus from Jakarta (the capital of Indonesia) to Bali, but only if you can brave the 23-hour bus journey.

ship

Bali is quite a popular port for most cruise liners traversing through Southeast Asia. To get into Bali through the sea route, take a flight to Singapore, Sumatra or Java and take a ship for your onward journey to Bali. The information desks at the airport will guide you thoroughly.

Do I need a visa?

Visa Regulations are based on your passport and nationality. Over 160 nationalities need no Visa and have free entry for a maximum stay of 30 days. Your passport must be valid at least 6 months out from the day of your arrival. For more information and the list of 160 countries, see here.

When is the best time to visit?

May to September: Bali’s tropical climate has two distinct seasons: dry (between May to September) and wet (between October to April). May, June, and July are generally considered to be the best time to travel to Bali in terms of the weather. That is when temperatures hover around 80 Fahrenheit (27 Celsius). However, depending on whether the traveler is a surfer or explorer, preferences may change. During the dry season, May to October, the western side of the peninsula creates some of the world's best waves. The best advice is to check the estimated weather during the time of travel and pack accordingly.

For more information on Bali’s weather and when to go, you can check out some tips here.

Get around

driving

Most travelers are satisfied with either a bemo (chartered vehicles with driver) or taxi (metered). Travelers will hear the words "bemo, bemo, bemo" or "transport, transport" all over Bali. If the vehicle has a taximeter, travelers should insist that the meter must be turned on. Otherwise, the driver will offer a fixed fare, or say the meter is broken. If the vehicle is a "private" bemo and has no meter, it is typical to bargain for the cost of the charter before taking the ride.

scooters

For adventurers, a motorbike is a quick, but often dangerous, way to get around town. Travelers need to purchase insurance and must have an international license. Wear a helmet at all times and keep your license on you.

bicycle

A bicycle is an inexpensive and scenic way to travel through Bali. Many villages have a place to hire a bike for the day. When exploring the backroads in places like Ubud and around Lovina, travelers may find a bicycle an ideal form of transport. However, cyclists should keep on the smaller roads and plan out each trip since Balinese road conditions are not always suited to long bike rides, with its steep hills and thick traffic on some of the main roads.

Check out more tips on getting around Bali here.

On the ground

What is the timezone?

WITA (Central Indonesian Time)

What are the voltage/plug types?

230 Volts / 50 Hz. In Indonesia, they typically use Type C and Type F plugs.For plug types, you can reference this international guide.

What is the currency?

Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Yes.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

In some areas. Credit cards are usually accepted for larger purchases, accommodation (apart from smaller establishments), department stores, and larger restaurants. Always check though, as they are not accepted as widely as in Western Countries.

How much do I tip?

Tipping is not customary in Indonesia, but small gratuities for great service are very much appreciated. The exception is spa services. Most Indonesians give tips to their hairdresser or masseur after they complete the service. Just 5-10% of the bill is appropriate. Get more tipping tips here.

Are there local customs I should know?

Spirituality

The Balinese are extremely devout and spiritual. In Bali, there are more than 20,000 temples. The Balinese believe that good spirits dwell in the mountains and that the seas are home to demons. Therefore, most villages have at least three main temples: one of which is the Pura Puseh or “temple of origin,” is dedicated to the village founders and which faces Mt Agung — home to Pura Besakih the mother temple of Bali. Also, each home, rice field, or market can have several temples. Daily offerings are made at these temples in the form of food, cigarettes, sweets, and sometimes even money in order to honor the good spirits and satiate the evil spirits. Here’s a great overview of culture in Bali.

Bali travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travellers ask in the forums.

Seminyak Recommendations

According to forum posts, for travelers interested in Seminyak, Bali Villa Noa and Corra Villas come highly recommended. These options are praised for their suitability regarding location and amenities, fitting well within the specifications of a three-bedroom villa with a private pool and minimal traffic noise.

Ubud Suggestions

Some travelers have suggested considering villas that offer a private pool and floating breakfast in Ubud for under $100. While specific names aren't detailed, these types of accommodations are popular in the Ubud area, known for their serene environment and unique dining experiences.

Sanur Options

For those considering Sanur, Kejora Villas have been highlighted by travelers for their beachfront location and suitability for special occasions like a 50th birthday celebration. These villas offer a memorable and luxurious stay.

General Villa Insights

Overall, travelers have called out the importance of choosing villas based on location preferences such as proximity to beaches or central tourist spots, and the type of experience desired, whether tranquil or close to nightlife and dining areas.

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Family-Friendly Features

Some travelers highlighted the Bali Dynasty in Kuta as a top choice for families due to its kid-friendly water slides and pools. The Hyatt Regency in Sanur was also frequently recommended for its family-oriented amenities and beautiful beachfront location, making it ideal for children to play safely.

Activities and Location

According to forum posts, the Padma in Legian is praised for its proximity to the beach and multiple swimming pools, including a kids' pool with slides. This makes it a favorable option for families seeking both recreation and convenience to local attractions.

Resort Recommendations

Travelers have called out the Prama Sanur Beach Hotel for its extensive facilities tailored to families. It offers a kids' club, multiple pools, and is situated directly on the beach, providing easy access to beach activities and nearby dining options.

Accommodation Options

For a luxury family stay, the Ritz Carlton Mandapa in Ubud and the St. Regis in Nusa Dua were mentioned as upscale options that cater well to families, offering spacious accommodations and a range of activities suitable for children.

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Public Transport

According to forum posts, Bali has limited public transport options with infrequent bus services. Some travelers mentioned a public bus from the airport to Denpasar via Sentral Parkir Kuta, although catching this bus can be challenging.

Taxis and Private Drivers

Many users recommend using taxis or hiring private drivers for convenience. Prices for taxis are generally considered reasonable, and hiring a driver can cost around IDR 600,000 for a full day, which is effective for exploring multiple destinations.

Online Transport Services

Travelers have called out the availability of online transport services like Grab, which are used frequently. However, these services may not pick up directly from the airport, requiring a short walk to a designated pickup area.

Alternative Methods

For those looking for a budget or adventurous option, walking from the airport to nearby areas like Kuta is feasible and has been done by some travelers, reflecting a very local way to move around.

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General Visa Information

According to forum posts, travelers from countries like Fiji, Australia, Nepal, and the UK need a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for short stays (up to 30 days) in Bali for tourism purposes. This VOA is free for some nationalities like Fiji, Australia, and Nepal, while others might need to pay a fee.

Visa on Arrival Details

Some travelers mentioned that the VOA costs around Rp 500,000, which can be paid using various currencies or by card. An electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) option is also available and can be applied for online to potentially save time upon arrival.

Additional Entry Requirements

Travelers have called out that apart from the VOA, visitors must ensure their passports are valid for a minimum of six months from the date of arrival. A return ticket out of Indonesia within 30 days is often required to be shown, especially at the time of boarding. Additionally, as per recent updates, a pre-travel COVID-19 test and specific COVID-19 travel insurance might also be necessary.

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Water Sports Locations

According to forum posts, Bali offers a variety of locations for water activities. Tanjung Benoa and the southern end of Sanur are popular for water sports. Nusa Lembongan is noted for its excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Activity Suggestions

Some travelers mentioned specific water activities, including snorkeling, parasailing, sea-walking, and glass boat tours. Bali also offers unique experiences like sea walking, where you walk along the sea floor, and riding water scooters.

Adventure Sports

For more adventurous water activities, forum users have suggested white-water rafting on the Ayung River in Ubud and Telaga Waja River, which reportedly has fewer steps to access the river, making it slightly more convenient. Canyoning and quad biking are also available for those seeking thrilling experiences.

Additional Recommendations

Travelers have called out specific areas for their suitability for water-based activities. For instance, Melasti Beach was recommended for beach-related activities.

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Currency Exchange Options

According to forum posts, travelers have various options for currency exchange in Bali. Many suggest bringing major currencies like GBP, USD, or EUR and exchanging them locally for better rates. Authorized money changers and banks are recommended, and small denominations are advised to be kept towards the end of the trip to avoid leftover currency.

Payment Methods

Some travelers mentioned the widespread acceptance of cards, particularly in tourist areas and larger businesses, though small local vendors might only accept cash. The Wise card was frequently recommended for its favorable exchange rates and ease of use. Additionally, it's noted that some vendors may add a 3% charge for card payments, which should be factored into budget considerations.

Local Payment Preferences

For local transactions such as toll roads and buses, a local debit card is required. Travelers have also pointed out the importance of always ensuring credit card transactions are charged in IDR to avoid additional fees or poor exchange rates.

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Hiring Process

According to forum posts, hiring a private driver in Bali is commonly done through local contacts, tourist booths, or online platforms like Klook. Travelers have typically arranged for drivers to assist with tours and transfers across the island.

Cost and Duration

Some travelers mentioned that the typical cost for a private driver is around IDR 600k-700k for a full day (approximately 9am to 6pm), which covers the whole vehicle and not per person. This allows for flexibility in itinerary and the ability to set your own pace for sightseeing.

Booking and Recommendations

For many users, recommendations for drivers often come from previous visitors or through travel forums where specific drivers or companies are suggested. It's advised to book locally to secure better rates and confirm availability closer to your travel dates.

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Itinerary Recommendations

Some travelers suggested a focused itinerary around Ubud, using it as a base for various day trips. This approach allows for a deeper exploration of Ubud’s cultural and natural attractions, like the Monkey Forest and Ubud Palace, while also facilitating excursions to nearby areas like Tegalalang Rice Terrace and Tirta Empul Temple.

Day Trips from Ubud

According to forum posts, travelers can make day trips to northern and eastern Bali from Ubud. Popular destinations include the Lempuyang Temple, known for its iconic Heavens Gate, and the water gardens of Tirtagangga. A separate day could be dedicated to exploring Ubud's local attractions and markets.

Nusa Penida and Gili Islands

For those interested in coastal scenery and island vibes, a segment of the trip could include Nusa Penida and the Gili Islands. Travelers have called out Nusa Penida for its dramatic cliffs and unique beaches like Kelingking Beach. The Gili Islands, on the other hand, offer a relaxed atmosphere with opportunities for snorkeling and experiencing local nightlife.

Adventure and Leisure Activities

Travelers also recommend incorporating activities like sunrise hikes at Mount Batur, visiting the butterfly park, and exploring coffee plantations. For relaxation, spending time at beach clubs in Seminyak or Canggu could round out the Bali experience, balancing adventure with downtime.

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Tripadvisor is not responsible for these answers or any opinions in them. Please read full forum posts for more details and information.