Plan Your Bali Holiday: Best of Bali
Explore Bali
Essential Bali
Food & drink
My favourite street markets in Bali
- Gianyar Street Night Market158Known 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 Brisa1,284La 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 Market11Pasar 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 Market1,843My 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 Market419Expect 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.
Browse collections
- Summer in BaliSee what makes this city so magical at this time of year
- Feeling fancy-ishLuxury experiences that are totally worth it
- Drinks with a viewBeachside bars, rooftop hangs, and more
- Bali on a dimeBudget-friendly bites, and plenty of free fun
- Day trips around the islandGet to all the best sights (and back) in a day
- Bali’s best beachesTraveller-favourite beaches from coast to coast
- Surf’s upBest breaks for pros, plus lessons for first-timers
- For the wellness warriorsEssential resorts where relaxation’s king
- An extremely good timeHeart-pounding adventures and thrills to try
- Hang with wildlifeBird-spotting, monkey sanctuaries, and more
- Beyond the beachFrom waterfall hikes to hidden temples
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
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.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?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.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?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.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?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.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?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.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?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.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?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.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?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.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?