Why go to Bali
Bali is more than beach clubs. Inland, Ubud's jungle valleys and terraced fields hold a living Hindu culture of daily offerings, dance and temple festivals; the coasts offer world-class surf and diving.
Best time to visit Bali
April to October is the dry season and the best time to visit; July and August are busiest. November to March brings humidity and heavy showers, but also lower prices and lush landscapes. Nyepi, the Day of Silence in March, closes the whole island for 24 hours.
Top things to see
Tegallalang and Jatiluwih rice terraces
Go early for mist and soft light.
Uluwatu Temple
Cliff-top temple with sunset kecak dance.
Tanah Lot
Sea temple on a rock at high tide.
Tirta Empul
Holy spring water temple.
Sacred Monkey Forest
Ubud's sanctuary; guard your belongings.
Mount Batur
Sunrise hike up an active volcano.
Things to do in Bali
- Surf or take a lesson in Canggu or Uluwatu
- Dive or snorkel with manta rays off Nusa Penida
- Take a Balinese cooking class
- Visit Sidemen for a quieter, traditional Bali
- Do a yoga retreat in Ubud
Local experiences
- Watch a temple ceremony respectfully, wearing a sarong
- Eat at a local warung
- Learn about canang sari offerings
- See a legong dance performance in Ubud
Where to eat in Bali
Dishes to try: babi guling, nasi campur, sate lilit, bebek betutu, lawar.
Warung Babi Guling Ibu OkaLocal
Ubud's famous spit-roast pork.
MozaicFine dining
French techniques with Indonesian ingredients in Ubud.
Merah PutihModern Indonesian
Dramatic dining room in Seminyak.
Where to stay in Bali
Four Seasons Resort Bali at SayanLuxury
Jungle valley resort above the Ayung River.
Capella UbudLuxury
Tented camp in the rainforest.
COMO Uma UbudBoutique
Wellness-focused retreat near town.
Best areas to stay
Ubud
Culture, rice fields and wellness.
Seminyak
Restaurants, shopping and sunsets.
Canggu
Surf, cafés and a young crowd.
Uluwatu
Cliffs, surf breaks and beach clubs.
5 days in Bali
Day 1: Ubud
Day 2: Rice terraces and holy springs
Day 3: Mount Batur
Day 4: Canggu and Tanah Lot
Day 5: Uluwatu
See the full day-by-day itinerary
Festivals and events
NyepiMarch
The Day of Silence: the whole island stops for 24 hours.
Bali Arts FestivalJune to July
Dance, music and crafts in Denpasar.
Galungan and KuninganTwice a year (dates vary)
Decorated bamboo poles line streets as families honour ancestors.
Getting around
Traffic is heavy and distances take longer than maps suggest. Hire a driver for day trips, or use Grab and Gojek in the south. Scooters are common, but only ride with an international licence and a helmet.
Practical information
- Plug types
- C, F (guide)
- Voltage
- 230 V
- Emergency
- 112
- Tap water
- Drink bottled or filtered water
Tipping: Optional; many restaurants add a service charge. See our tipping guide.
Entry requirements depend on your nationality; check your government's travel advice and the destination's official immigration site before booking.
How much does it cost?
Approximate US dollar figures covering accommodation, food, local transport and sights; flights excluded.
Good to know
- A tourist levy is charged on arrival; pay online in advance
- Always wear a sarong at temples
- Drink bottled or filtered water
- Respect the sea: rip currents are strong on many beaches
Bali travel FAQ
What is the best time to visit Bali?
The best months are usually Apr–Sep. April to October is the dry season and the best time to visit; July and August are busiest. November to March brings humidity and heavy showers, but also lower prices and lush landscapes. Nyepi, the Day of Silence in March, closes the whole island for 24 hours.
How many days do you need in Bali?
Plan on 7 days to see the highlights at a comfortable pace.
What currency is used in Bali?
The local currency is the Indonesian rupiah (IDR). Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carry some cash for markets and small vendors.
How much does a trip to Bali cost per day?
Roughly US$45 per person per day on a budget, US$140 mid-range and US$600 or more for luxury, excluding flights. Prices vary by season.
What food should I try in Bali?
Local favourites include babi guling, nasi campur, sate lilit, bebek betutu, lawar.
What plug adapter do I need for Bali?
Bali uses plug type C, F at 230 V. Check whether your devices support this voltage.
Restaurants, hotels and prices change. Confirm opening times and book popular places ahead. Last reviewed October 2026.
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