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Planning a trip to Ubud in 2026? We highly recommend spending some time planning your itinerary. There are so many amazing things to do in the area. A little planning and research will make sure you don’t miss any of the best things.
We have traveled in and around Ubud as a couple and as a family. And we’re super excited to share the very best activities in and around this beautiful town. Before we dive in with our Things to do in Ubud – we also want to share some top tips and info on travel in Ubud.
Ubud has LOADS of epic things to do. It’s really about knowing where to go to make the most of your trip. That’s where we can help. In this guide we will share loads of specific tips, recommendations and info to help you plan your trip. At the end of this article we also recommend some or our TOP PICK hotels in Ubud. Please use our booking links as this enables us to earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
If you’ve ever dreamed of splashing out on a luxury 5 star hotel Ubud is one of the BEST places 5 star hotels. You wont believe how far your money goes here. Don’t miss these AMAZING luxury 5 star hotels in Ubud
You may also be interested in our step-by-step 3 day itinerary for Ubud
Map of THE BEST things to do in Ubud
Summary of the BEST things to do in Ubud
HERE is a summary of the BEST things to do in Ubud. We will give full details further in this article…
| Explore the Sacred Monkey Forest Trek through the rice terraces Check out the Tegenungan waterfall Explore the Goa Gajah cave temple Try a Bali flower bath Take a Cooking Class Check out Saraswati temple Check out the Ubud art market Explore the Tirta Empul water temple Visit a coffee plantation Explore the Ubud Palace Check out the Eat Pray Love hotel Visit Ubud Diary Try some Klepon See traditional stone carving | Watch a local dance performance Try Nasi Jinggo Try a sunrise yoga experience Enjoy a smoothie bowel Get a traditional Balinese massage Stay at a villa with a private swimming pool Have a drink at Pison Visit the Bali Butterfly park Have a go on a giant swing Visit the Agung Rai Museum of fine art Try a stone baked pizza at Mama Mia Visit the morning market Grab a bagel at Ubud Cinnamon Take a Bali Art class Grab some frozen yogurt |
What is Ubud like to travel?
Planing a trip to Bali? Don’t miss our in depth 10 day Bali itinerary
Ubud is a small beautiful town located in the heart of Bali. This lovely town really is a true gem of Southeast Asia. Known as the cultural hub of the island, Ubud is a place where traditional Balinese arts, crafts, and religious practices flourish alongside modern amenities and international cuisine. From lush green rice paddies and dense tropical forests to yoga studios, cooking classes and wellness retreats, Ubud has something for everyone.
One of the most popular attractions in Ubud is the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where you can observe playful monkeys and explore ancient Hindu temples. Art lovers will also be in heaven, as Ubud is home to numerous galleries and museums showcasing traditional Balinese paintings, woodcarvings, and textiles.
Beyond its cultural richness, Ubud also offers a laid-back and peaceful vibe, the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of south Bali. Its serene surroundings make it an ideal destination for relaxation, yoga or more adventurous activities like trekking.
In terms of accommodation, Ubud offers a wide range of options from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses, all set amidst beautiful natural surroundings. The town’s central market and nearby organic farms provide the opportunity to sample delicious local cuisine, including fresh fruits and vegetables, traditional Balinese dishes, and exotic spices. Ubud really is a place that exudes a sense of peace, tranquility, and harmony with nature. Ubud also has several ATM machines around town and convenience stores selling a range of snacks and drinks.
By the way we also have a very big guide on AMAZING things to do in Bali
Our honest opinion of Ubud
We really love traveling in and around Ubud. We would definitely recommend a visit for anyone traveling in Bali. Ubud has peaceful and tranquil vibes with lots of ornate cafes, coffee shops and beautiful rice paddies. We love the availability of amazing food in Ubud. This is also a great hub for exploring the beautiful attractions in central Bali (we have listed many of these in this article). Prices in Ubud are great. You can eat lovely local food for as little as 20,000 – 30,000IDR (roughly £1 – £1.50 or $1.20 – $2). The main frustration in Ubud is the slow roads, lack of parking and annoying (but probably necessary) one way system which runs around town. The best way to get around Ubud is by bike. Taxis and cars can be pretty slow due to the traffic and one way systems on the road.
What are the BEST ways to get to Ubud?
Here is a summary of the BEST ways to get to Ubud. The journey from Kuta to Ubud is around 30km by road. This journey can take anything between 1.5 hours – 3 hours depending on the traffic. Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE in how to get around in Bali.
1 Rent a motorbike
The cheapest way to get to Ubud is to rent a motorbike and drive. Bike rental in Bali is cheap, simple and readily available. You can rent bikes from many shops and guest houses. Bike rental normally costs around 100,000IDR – 200,000IDR per day (roughly £5 – £10 per day or $6 – $12). You can normally negotiate cheaper deals if you are taking a longer rental period. Motorbike is also the best way to get around in Ubud. Watch out for traffic on the roads between Kuta and Ubud. The roads can get pretty busy and this can be risky for motorcyclists – especially if you’re not experienced on these roads. Don’t miss our full guide on Bali by bike – four intrepid adventures around Bali by motorbike.
2 Take a shared minibus
A convenient way to travel to Ubud is to take a shared minibus. If you’re looking for a good company check out Perama Tour: 100,000IDR per person (this is roughly £5 or $6 per person). We particularly recommend this option for a solo traveler.
TOP TIP: If you are traveling with someone else it may be a similar price or cheaper to take a Grab taxi to Ubud (and a lot more convenient!). A Grab taxi is likely to cost around 200,000IDR to Ubud from Kuta and offers a very convenient door to door service. We found taxi drivers in Kuta were very quick and willing to accept a journey to Ubud for 200,000IDR.
3 Rent a car and drive
Another excellent way to get to Ubud is to rent a car and drive. Make sure you are fully qualified and insured to drive in Bali. We recommend using an international drivers license. The cheapest way to get a good rental deal on a car in Bali is contact a local rental company and negotiate a deal. There are loads of car rental dealers in Kuta. They can generally drop off in various locations – but may charge an additional fee if you’re not close to their office. Expect to pay around 200,000IDR – 400,000IDR per day (roughly £10 – £20 per day or $12 – $24). Petrol is very cheap in Bali. Be aware that parking can be challenging in Ubud, if you’re renting a hotel in central Ubud we recommending that you check if parking is available.
4 Take a taxi
Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE to using Grab in Bali
One of the BEST ways to get to Ubud is use a local taxi. You can get taxis on the Grab taxi app to get great prices. It should cost around 200,000IDR to get a taxi from Kuta to Ubud (roughly £10 or $12). This is a very good price when you share it across several people. The Grab taxi app is very easy to use in Bali. Just buy a local sim card with data and download the Grab app. Register for an account and you’re away. You can book taxis on the app – the price is set before you book, and taxis tend to be very responsive on the app.
You can ALSO book private transfers around Bali on Klook
What is the best way to get around in Ubud?
Ok heads up. This is one of the most tricky parts of Ubud. As a town Ubud is pretty small. Only a few kilometers across. You can walk across the main section of Ubud in around 30 minutes. So if you’re just going local the best way to get around is walk. Taxis and car journeys are tricky around Ubud. The traffic can be pretty busy in this area and there is an awkward one way system around the town. Taxis also seem to be a little more expensive in Ubud (even if you use the Grab taxi app!)
If you’re hoping to zip around and be quick and efficient a motorbike is a good choice but take care on the busy roads. Another way to explore the area around Ubud is to pre-book tours on Klook. They generally offer free hotel pick up and drop off (always check this when you book). Also Klook tours tend to offer very competitive prices – and can sometimes actually be cheaper than the prices you get locally. So in summary. Bike is probably best. Taxis are a little slow and expensive but ok as an option. If you’re staying local – then walking is probably the best bet.
TOP TIP: Parking in Ubud town centre can be tricky. The streets are narrow, busy and only have limited roadside parking – which is normally occupied. Plan your parking before your trip if you are using a car to explore Ubud town itself.
When is the best time of year to visit Ubud?
The best time of year to visit Ubud is during the dry season which runs from April to September. During this period, the weather is generally sunny, and there is very little rainfall. This makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and exploring the rice paddies.
The months of July and August are considered the peak season in Ubud due to the school holidays in Europe and North America. During this period, the town can get crowded and accommodation prices may rise, so it is advisable to book in advance if you plan to visit during this time. However, if you are looking for a lively atmosphere and lots of events and activities, then July and August are a great time to visit.
Another good time to visit Ubud is during the shoulder season which runs from April to June and September to November. During this time, the weather is still good, and the crowds are thinner. This makes it a great time to explore the town at a more leisurely pace and enjoy the many cultural and natural attractions that Ubud has to offer.
The rainy season in Ubud runs from November to March, with the heaviest rainfall typically occurring in December and January. While it is still possible to visit Ubud during this period, it may not be the best time for outdoor activities as the weather can be unpredictable, and some attractions may be closed.
The best time to visit Ubud is during the dry season, especially from April to June and September to November, when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner. However, if you don’t mind the crowds and want to experience a lively atmosphere, then July and August are also great times to visit.
Recommended 2 day itinerary in Ubud
Day 1
8am Visit the Tegenungan Waterfall
10am Check out the Butterfly farm near the waterfall
11am Visit the Goa Gajah cave temple
12pm Return to Ubud for lunch
1pm Visit the Ubud Monkey Forest
4pm Explore the Ubud Art market
5pm Check out the Saraswati temple & Ubud palace
Perhaps check out a dance show in Ubud
Day 2
6am Visit the Tegalalang Rice Terrace for sunrise
10am Visit the Tirta Empul water temple
12pm Visit the Segara Windhu Coffee Plantation
3pm Check out Suwat waterfall
5pm Return to Ubud
What are the BEST things to do in Ubud?
1 Explore the Sacred Monkey Forest
One of the most famous and iconic things to do in Ubud is visit the Monkey Forest. The Monkey Forest is a forest area with pathways, statues, temples and plenty of mischievous macaque monkeys. This is a great place to see wild monkeys close up and enjoy some beautiful Bali nature. Due to the popularity of this area the monkeys are very used to being around people. At times the monkeys can be quite aggressive, therefore we recommend giving them plenty of space.
Never take any food or drink out in the Monkey forest. The monkeys have even been known to snatch other things like cameras so we recommend leaving your bags in the lockers. You can buy tickets at the office on arrival: Weekdays: 80,000IDR for adults (around £4) and 60,000IDR for children (around £3) Weekends: 100,000IDR for adults (around £5) and 80,000IDR for children (around £4). Children 3 – 12 years old. Children under 3 years old FREE. Opening hours 9am – 5pm. For a more peaceful and less touristy experience check out the Sangeh monkey forest nearby.
2 Trek through the rice terraces
If you’re looking for beautiful and adventurous things to do in Ubud make sure that you visit the beautiful rice paddies. Bali rice paddies are most famous for amazing insta shots and impressive swings. However, you can also take a scenic trek in the rice paddies to experience them from a different angle. The best area to find rice paddies in Bali is in the deep valleys to the north of Ubud. The valleys have very scenic rice paddies, rivers, waterfalls, temples and jungle.
Many of these rice paddies have trails running through them so that local workers can tend to their crops. These areas are generally open for visitors to trek and explore. We recommend wearing good footwear with a solid grip. These trails can be very steep, muddy and slippery. We also recommend bringing mosquito repellant, sun cream and plenty of drinking water. The most popular and famous rice terrace in Bali is the Tegalalang rice terrace around 20 minutes north of Ubud. Arrive very early – around 6am – to beat the crowds.
3 Check out the Tegenungan waterfall
There are also lots of epic waterfalls to visit near Ubud. We highly recommend a visit to the impressive Tegenungan waterfall. This giant jungle cascade has a deep plunge pool and throws clouds of damp mist into the air. Tegenungan waterfall is very easy to get to from Ubud – the journey takes around 20-30 minutes by road. This is a great spot for photography or just relaxing and taking in the impressive scenery. It is also worth being aware that this is one of the most popular waterfalls in Bali. It is very often busy here with plenty of visitors.
There are also lots of shops, market stores and restaurants in the area. There is also a bar, restaurant and swimming pool in the area – Omma Dayclub Bali. If this all feels too touristy for you – then we recommend visiting some of the more remote and intrepid waterfalls in the north. On the other hand, you may just want to chill with a cocktail and pizza in a stunning location. Bali really does have something for everyone!
Be aware that there are some steep steps to get to this waterfall – this route is not suitable for prams or wheelchairs. To visit this impressive waterfall you need to buy an entrance ticket on arrival. There is a small ticket booth and a free car park at the entrance. You can visit the Tegenungan waterfall between 6.30am – 6.30pm. It costs 20,000IDR for adults (around £1 or $1.20) and 10,000IDR for kids (around £0.50 or $0.60)
4 Explore the Goa Gajah cave temple
If you’re looking for cultural things to do in Ubud we highly recommend a visit to the Goa Gajah cave temple. This beautiful temple is located around 15 minutes to the east of Ubud by car or bike. The Goa Gajah cave temple is a very beautiful temple complex with pagodas, statues and a small cave containing statues and shrines. It takes around 20 – 30 minutes to explore the area. When you arrive at this temple there is a large car park with shops selling drinks, snacks and gifts.
They will also try to sell you Sarongs for the temple. They love to tell visitors that you cannot enter without a Sarong, and they neglect to mention that there is a box of FREE Sarongs available at the entrance to the temple. Overall the Goa Gajah cave temple is a fascinating and beautiful place to visit in Bali. There is a ticket office at the entrance to the temple. It costs 50,000IDR (around £3 or $3.50) for adults and 25,000IDR (around £1.50 or $1.75) for children.
5 Try a Bali flower bath
One of the most relaxing and enjoyable things to do in Ubud is to take a traditional Balinese bath. A Bali bath is normally done in a deep freestanding bath tub. They are normally warm and filled with fragrant flowers, essential oils and petals. Balinese baths may also be located outside so that you can see the sky as you bathe. They are sometimes located on terraces with jungle or mountain views. Bali bath experiences may also include fresh local fruits and local drinks such as tea or juices. For some of the BEST Bali flower baths check out Kaveria Spa at the Udiya Resort in Ubud. Their signature baths range between 700,000 IDR – 140,000IDR (roughly £40 – £75). They offer couples packages, citrus packages and the celebration of flowers package. Smaller spas around Bali may offer cheaper bath packages.
6 Take a Cooking Class
One of the best ways to connect with Bali culture and learn a new skill is to take a Bali cooking course. Ubud is one of the best places to do a cooking class in Bali.
Cooking courses in Bali provide a unique opportunity to learn about Bali spices and ingredients, Bali cooking techniques and some great recipes to impress your friends. Some of the cooking schools in Bali also offer courses in very beautiful locations surrounded by Lush green gardens. Some common dishes in Bali cooking courses are: Grilled fish, Chicken satay, Sambal chicken, Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Mie Goreng (fried noodles).
Subak Cooking Class offers some of the best prices. Classes normally cost around £16 (or $20). Subak is located around 15km north of Ubud. Prepare 9 dishes. Also includes a welcome drink, market tour, paddy tour, recipes and pick up and drop off from the Ubud area. This class lasts around 5 hours. Another great option is Ketut’s cooking class. This is located 3km northeast of Ubud. Prepare and enjoy 8 dishes. Also includes a market tour, pick up and drop off from Ubud area. This course normally costs around £20 or $25 and lasts around 4 hours.
7 Check out Saraswati temple
Saraswati temple is one of the most beautiful temples in Bali – and there is a lot of tough competition! This temple is located in the North of Ubud – just next to the Ubud palace. Surrounded by spacious grounds and serene ponds with lotus flowers, this beautiful temple offers symmetry, detail and aesthetic charm. Just next to the temple you can sip a slightly overpriced drink at Cafe Lotus – this cafe has an outdoor terrace with temple views.
If you’re staying in Ubud we highly recommend a visit to this beautiful temple – don’t expect to get the area to yourself. It’s still well worth a visit even at busy times. It is FREE to visit the Saraswati temple. It is only a short walk from the Bali market street and shops. Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds! Parking can be tricky in the area so we recommend walking if possible. If you are on a motorbike there is a small amount of parking across the road from Sarawati temple near Ubud Palace.
8 Check out the Ubud art market
If you’re looking for enjoyable things to do in Ubud make sure that you visit the art market on Jalan Karna. On the Ubud market you can find a range of artwork, gifts, clothing and jewelry. We absolutely love the artistic gifts and stylish clothing available in Bali. Ubud markets sell ornate gifts and ornaments: Wood, stone and tarnished metal products are very common. You can find plenty of Boho jewelry, bracelets and silk scarves. Clothing tends to be quite well made and very stylish (especially if you love the hippy travel vibes). If you are shopping in the street markets in Ubud it is important to barter to get the best prices.
9 Explore the Tirta Empul water temple
Tirta Empul is one of the most famous and prestigious temples in Bali. It is located around 30 minutes north of Ubud by road. This large temple has several sections to explore. There are courtyards, pagodas and shrines. This temple is most famous for its ceremonial washing pools. People move along a line of traditional fountains and wash and bathe in the clear water. Visitors are required to wear a sarong (both male and females must wear one). There is a FREE box of Sarongs to borrow. You can also rent lockers and bathing robes for a small price.
Don’t miss the fish lake next to the temple. You can buy fish food to feed the fish. There is a one way system in place at this temple. When you have finished you need to walk along a series of alleys crowded with market stalls selling an array of gifts and clothing. Tirta Empul is open daily from 8am – 6pm. There are changing rooms, toilets and lockers at Tirta Empul. There is also a carpark at the entrance. Entrance costs 50,000IDR for adults and 25,000IDR (children 5 – 11 years old). There is a ticket office at the entrance.
10 Visit a coffee plantation
In the hills around Ubud you can find plenty of coffee plantations to visit. We highly recommend a visit to a coffee plantation. You can see coffee plants, learn about coffee growing and harvesting. Watch demonstrations such as processing, roasting and grinding the beans. Coffee plantations are beautiful places to explore – normally located on lush jungle hills and on the side of panoramic valleys. You can do coffee sampling and tea tasting on the plantations in Bali. And they often offer you the chance to buy coffee and other products.
Just a heads up. Some places advertise as “coffee plantations” but don’t actually grow coffee onsite. One of the BEST coffee plantations in Bali is the beautiful OKA Agriculture farm. It is FREE to enter. They have a wide range of products to learn about and coffee to sample. It is also a very beautiful location. This plantation is around 30 minutes from Ubud. It costs 60,000IDR to sample Kopi Luwak here. They also offer tea tasting.
Find out more about coffee plantations in Bali
11 Explore the Ubud Palace
If you’re visiting Ubud make sure you check out the Ubud palace. This is one of the most prestigious attractions in Ubud – this beautiful palace is the former home of the royal family of Ubud. It is relatively small and not possible to explore inside the buildings. However, the grounds are very beautiful and there is a traditional dance performance every evening at 7.30pm. Don’t miss Sarawati temple nearby and Ubud market street. Entry to the Ubud palace is FREE. The dance performances start around 7.30pm and display traditional dancing and traditional Balinese attire. This costs 100,000IDR and you can pay on arrival (roughly £5 or $6)
12 Check out the Eat Pray Love hotel
If you’re a Julia Robert’s fan or you just enjoyed the Eat Pray Love film – then you can actually visit the location of one of the iconic scenes from the film. The scene where Julia Roberts is blessed was filmed at the entrance to the Liyer Spirit house located to the south of Ubud. This small boutique hotel offers great value for money. Located on a small village side street, this is a lovely peaceful location. Liyer Spirit house is surrounded by lush and well kept gardens. Balinese statues and ornaments create a lovely aesthetic. There is also a small outdoor swimming pool located here too. Drop in to see the location and say hi, or you can actually stay at the hotel. Rooms typically cost around £20 – £40 per night.
13 Visit Ubud Diary
Ubud has a reputation for amazing art work. Around the town you will see many ornate temples, gates and gardens full of stone sculptures. For example, you will often see startling face sculptures guarding gates – these are known as Bhoma and are thought to ward of unwanted spirits. Bali sculptures tend to be made from wood and stone and feature animals, faces, people, mythological creatures and geometrical patterns.
Sculptures adorn people’s homes, gardens and temples. Another way to see and appreciate Bali sculptures is to visit a gallery. There are several galleries around Bali. There is a sculpture gallery located around 10 minutes drive south of Ubud. It is called the Ubud Diary. It is free to enter this gallery. This is a nice place to explore for 10 – 15 minutes if you are passing by. Ubud Diary is located on the route between Denpasar and Ubud. Open daily from 9am – 5pm.
14 Try some Klepon (sticky rice cakes)
If you love to try local treats, keep your eye open for Klepon being sold on the streets around Ubud. These small delicacies are normally prepared using coconut and sticky rice. Green colours are prepared using pandan leaves – giving desserts a very subtle smooth flavour. You can normally find Klepon being sold around the markets and on the street side. Local vendors may own small shops or walk around selling traditional Bali desserts. Expect to pay around 5,000IDR – 10,000IDR for a portion.
15 See traditional stone carving
If you’re an art lover don’t miss the chance to see traditional stone sculptures being made. The chiseling process is fascinating. The artists skillfully chisel out the rough shape of the sculpture knocking giant chunks off the softened rock. Another artist starts to gently shape the sculpture so it is smooth and ready for the final details. The sculptures are large, beautiful and impressively smooth and detailed. There is a small sculpture workshop located on Jalan Ambarwati 1 just south of Ubud town. This is not an official “tourist attraction”, just a group of highly skilled guys working on sculptures. They are very welcoming and happy to let people take a look at their work.
16 Watch a local dance performance
If you’re looking for cultural things to do in Bali then we highly recommend watching a traditional dance performance. These performances share significant stories from Bali’s history and folklore. You can often watch traditional music and dance performances in Ubud. The impressive traditional colorful clothing and live music create a beautiful and enchanting experience. This is a very memorable and enjoyable thing to do in Bali. There is a traditional Legong & Barong dance performance at the Ubud Palace every Thursday 7.30pm for 100,000IDR. Arrive early and book tickets on arrival. Alternatively, there is a traditional Joged Dance show at the Saraswati temple every monday at 7.30pm – 8.30pm (Performed by Cepuk Wirasa dance group). The live music and costumes are very impressive – this is very impressive in the ambiance of a beautiful Balinese temple.
17 Try Nasi Jinggo
If you are exploring Ubud we highly recommend that you try Nasi Jinggo (also known as Nasi Ayam). This is a banana leaf package of rice served with sambal, chicken, noodles, omelette, fried tofu and vegetables. And you would be right. These small banana leaf packages are absolutely packed with flavor. These delicious treats are very varied. A little bit of everything makes the perfect flavour packed experience. The exact ingredients depend on the variety you pick. Whether you try Nasi Jinggo for the experience or for fuel – we think you will enjoy the cheapest meal you may ever try. Nasi Jinggo is stunningly cheap. It normally costs around 5,000IDR – 7,000IDR (around £0.30 – £0.40 or $0.35 – $0.50)
18 Try a sunrise yoga experience
Ubud is a real haven for yogis! There are plenty of Yoga retreats around Ubud. One of the most famous yoga centers is the Ubud Yoga Barn. As a family we have done a little yoga and LOVE the holistic benefits. Yoga is a great way of building strength, flexibility and relaxing your body and mind. Yoga retreats often have very well trained teachers to help you improve your technique and learn new holds. There is something deeply invigorating about doing yoga in the warm tropical air surrounded by lush green foliage. Yoga experiences are wonderful but they are relatively expensive. You can book an amazing sunrise yoga experience on Klook for around £15 or $18.
19 Enjoy a smoothie bowel
One of our favourite things to do in Ubud is grab a tasty fresh smoothie bowl. They are just so cheap and so good! If you haven’t tucked into a smoothie bowl then you haven’t visited Bali. You can find smoothie bowls all over Ubud. Whether its small boutique coffee shops, restaurants or small street side cafes. They are often served in half a coconut shell. A thick sweet natural smoothie is topped with fresh cut fruit muesli or granola, nuts and dried fruits. A smoothie bowl normally costs around 60,000IDR – 100,000IDR (roughly £3 – £5 or $3.50 = $7).
20 Get a traditional Balinese massage
If you’re looking for relaxing things to do in Ubud make sure that you get a traditional Balinese massage. Spas offer a range of tempting treatments including oil massages, deep tissue massages and traditional Balinese massages. Ubud is a very popular destination for Spas. Some spas are located in resorts and they are typically quite expensive. You can also find smaller independent spas around town. We love the Bali spa experience. Ubud spas are normally very rustic with rich wooden fixtures, ornaments, water features and flowers. For a luxurious spa expect to pay around £50 – £100 for a massage (roughly $70 – $120). Check out the stunning Kamandalu forest spa for a very beautiful natural luxury spa experience.
21 Stay at a villa with a private swimming pool
Looking for superlative luxurious things to do in Ubud? Why not book a stay at a luxurious villa with a private swimming pool? If you have the budget and want to splash out – Ubud is one of the best places in the world for private pool villas. Private pool villas around Ubud generally range in price from £250 – £4,000. This is an amazing way to relax and unwind in this stunning and beautiful area. Private pool villas around Ubud tend to be large, amazingly equipped and immersed in the beautiful Ubud nature. There are many amazing private pool villas in the area.
On the lower budget end check out the beautiful Uma Kalai – which is genuinely excellent and beautifully situated a couple of kilometers to the west of Ubud town. For something even more up market don’t miss the superlative Tanah Gajah Resort.
22 Have a drink at Pison – boutique rice paddy coffee shop
Looking for relaxing things to do in Ubud? Check out the Pision coffee shop and restaurant. This boutique coffee shop is located close to Monkey forest and is beautifully situated next to lush rice paddies. There is a large indoor seating area and also a covered outdoor seating area too. The Pison coffee shop serves a range of fresh cakes and desserts. They also have a tempting menu of gourmet food including local Balinese dishes and decadent western cuisine. Pison Ubud is not the cheapest venue in Ubud – but it is very good quality and very nice. It can get busy at times.
23 Visit the Bali Butterfly park
If you’re looking for things to do in Ubud with kids we recommend a visit to the Bali butterfly park. Bali is well known for its vibrant and colorful natural beauty. A great way to appreciate the natural beauty is to visit one of Bali’s butterfly farms. Stroll around paths amongst tropical foliage with hundreds of butterflies fluttering around. Learn more about the biology and life cycle of butterflies and tropical insects and appreciate these beauties up close. This is a great activity for anyone who loves nature. The Kemenuh Butterfly park costs around 100,000IDR for adults and 50,000IDR for children and is open daily from 9am – 6pm
24 Have a go on a giant swing!
The giant swings are probably one of the most popular and iconic things to do in Ubud. These impressive swings are often located on jungle hillsides or at the rice terraces. There are plenty of places that offer giant swings around Bali. You often need to get harnessed in for safety, and the swings are operated by locals who can help set you up and may assist with photography too.
You will normally need to pay to use the swings as well. BUT we still think it is well worth it whether you’re looking for epic photography or you are a thrill seeker. Expect to pay around 150,000IDR – 300,000IDR to use a giant swing in Bali (this is roughly £8 – £16 or $10 – $20). They may offer packages that include photography or access to over photo points (such as nests, love heart frames and more). You can find swings located at the Telalalang rice terrace and many other locations around Bali.
25 Visit the Agung Rai Museum of fine art
If you’re looking for things to do in Ubud town – don’t miss the Agung Rai Museum of fine art. This Art Museum is split over 3 main buildings and has a beautiful large garden. There is a mossy garden full of statues and sculptures – a great place for photography or just chilling out. The Agung Rai museum has an impressive collection of contemporary Bali artists and some international artists too. There is a section dedicated to the German painter Walter Spies with some reproductions and some original pieces too. Expect to take an hour or two to explore depending on your levels of enthusiasm. The entry fee is 100,000IDR and includes a complimentary drink in the cafe. Alternatively for 185,000IDR for entry and lunch.
26 Try a stone baked pizza at Mama Mia
We have already mentioned the awesome food culture in Bali. We wanted to give a big shout out to a small pizza joint in Ubud. It is called Mama Mia and it’s located on Jalan Raya Pengosekan. We love the nice relaxed vibes of the restaurant and the staff are lovely too. They also do epic lunch deals too so pop in early to get amazing pizza at amazing prices! Most dishes range between 30,000IDR – 100,000IDR. The 50,000IDR lunch promo is absolutely amazing value for money! Mama Mia is open from 11am – 10.30pm daily.
27 Visit the morning market
If you’re looking for authentic cultural things to do in Ubud? Then we recommend a visit to the Ubud morning market. The Ubud morning market is on Jalan Raya Ubud not far from the Ubud palace. The best time to visit is from 5am – 9am. The morning market in Bali sells a wide range of fresh products including fresh spices, meat, fish, fruits and vegetables. This is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the sights, smells and tastes of Bali. The morning market in Ubud is busy, bustling and vibrant.
28 Grab a bagel at Ubud Cinnamon
If you are staying in Ubud we highly recommend a visit to Ubud Cinnamon cafe (located to the south of the town). Ubud Cinnamon is a lovely little cafe serving fresh coffee, homemade gelato ice creams and super fresh tasty bagels (freshly baked on site). The prices at Ubud Cinnamon are very reasonable and the ambiance is lovely. There is an upstairs seating area and a small kids playroom too. Ubud Cinnamon also offers some super tempting cinnamon buns with decadent creamy toppings. Be warned, if you visit once you may need to go back again! Ubud Cinnamon is open daily from 8am – 6.30pm. Most drinks cost around 30,000IDR – 40,000IDR (£1.50 – £2.00) and most of the bagels range between 60,000IDR – 70,000IDR (£3 – £4).
29 Take a Bali Art class
If you are looking for fun and creative things to do in Ubud then make sure you check out the art classes. This is a great way to relax, learn about Bali culture and art and learn new skills. You can also produce some beautiful artwork as a reminder of your Bali trip or as a gift to take home for someone special. Taking an Ubud Art Class is also a great activity for families.
Five Art Studio (located around 20 minutes north of Ubud) offers a range of art classes: You can try Batik Painting, Keliki Painting, wood carving classes and wooden egg painting classes. You can book an art class at Five Art Studio on Klook for around $20 including two way transfer from Ubud. They offer morning (9am) and afternoon classes (1pm). Classes take around 3 hours. This activity is not suitable for children under 5 years old. Children and adults pay the same price.
30 Grab some frozen yogurt
Looking for a cooling treat? Then make sure you grab some frozen yogurt. There are a couple of frozen yogurt cafes located on Jalan Monkey Forest. They offer a range of tempting flavours and then you can add toppings such as fresh fruit, sweets, chocolate bits and sauces. You generally pay by weight so go steady. We really enjoyed frozen yogurt in Ubud. Expect to pay around 20,000IDR – 60,000IDR for a portion of frozen yogurt.
What are the best places to stay in Ubud?
Here are our TOP PICK hotels in Ubud. We have only included hotels that are in Ubud town itself. We have also listed places in approximate order of price to help you find the perfect place for you.
Looking for uniqueness and character? Ubud is one of the best places in the world for Boutique hotels
1 Poshtel Ubud
£5 – £10 dorms only
This is a super trendy hostel with an 8 bed mixed dorm available. We love the fun Asian style. Excellently located in the center of Ubud, around a 5 minute walk from Saraswati temple. This is a great option for solo travelers on a budget.
2 Yoga’s House
£10 – £15 double room
Great name – great guest house! This place offers amazing value for money and it is located right in the heart of Ubud – close to everything you could want or need. They have a spacious light double room with a balcony and small lush gardens and lots of character. This hotel is a great option for a solo backpacker or couple on a budget.
3 Putu’s Paradise Guest House
£15 – £20
Awesome option on the low budget end. Lovely home style accommodation with lush gardens. Right next to the monkey forest. This guest house is great value for money. Double and twin rooms available – private bathrooms, outdoor seating and a lovely tropical garden.
4 Liyer Spirit House Ubud
£20 – £50
Looking for a unique stay in Ubud at a low cost? Check out the Liyer Spirit House. Packed with character and Balinese artwork this hotel is most famous for its appearance in the movie Eat Love Pray. There are beautiful gardens, a small outdoor pool, outdoor seating areas and comfortable double and twin rooms available with ensuite bathrooms and bathtubs. They can also add an additional mattress to rooms to accommodate families.
5 Ubud Lestari Bungalows
£20 – £50
It’s amazing how much you can get for your money in Bali. The Ubud Lestari is a stunning rice terrace hotel with an outdoor pool and spacious suites including bathtubs. Double and twin rooms available. Excellent location on Jalan Monkey Forest in the heart of Ubud not too far from Saraswati temple.
6 Pondok Serayu
£30 – £40
This is a very beautiful small hotel with spacious rooms and balconies. This hotel offers convenience, comfort and great value for money. You can book breakfast too. Excellent location right next to the Ubud Palace and Saraswati temple.
7 Sapodilla Ubud
£50 – £120
This super stylish hotel combines lush green nature with luxurious and tranquil accommodation. Suites are beautifully furnished with plenty of natural light and ensuite bathrooms with elegant freestanding bathtubs. There is a large outdoor swimming pool (the also offer a great breakfast – check whether this is included when you book)
8 Kebun Indah Ubud
£50 – £160
Kebun Indah is a very impressive hotel for the prices. We love the beautiful wooden Balinese style of this lush property. As a 4 star hotel there are great facilities and service here. We are particularly impressed with the spacious two bedroom suite (that has a double and a single bed). The beautiful ensuite bathroom has a bali style bathtub.
9 Royal Kamuela Villas & Suites
£200 – £400
This remarkable hotel offers luxurious 5 star accommodation right in the heart of Bali. You get a lot for your money here. We are super impressed with the stylish spacious villa with a private pool. If you’re looking for a luxury stay in Ubud – this offers some of the BEST value for money for this level of luxury. This is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic splash out.
10 Goya Boutique Resort
£200 – £1,000
This magnificent 5 star resort has a wide range of rooms and suites to choose from. There is a decadent Asian interior design with comfortable furniture and plenty of space to relax. They offer villas with private pools and open air bathtubs. There is also a stunning rooftop infinity pool with mountain views. Also a great location in Ubud town.
