Indonesia is a beautiful country in Southeast Asia, attracting thousands of visitors annually with its rich culture, amazing nature, and countless beaches. The best places to visit in Bali are all different from each other, and making a list will make your trip more special.
From blue water and sandy beaches to incredible landscapes, Bali has everything you’re looking for.
On the other side, the only downside to Indonesia is that it consists of over 17,000 islands. That makes it nearly impossible to decide where to go and what to do – and there are so many things to do in Indonesia!
However, worry not; we’re here to help you plan your perfect vacation. Let’s discover 15 incredible places to visit in Bali that should be on your travel itinerary.
15 Best Places to Visit in Bali
Tegalalang Rice Terraces – Ubud
Welcome to the Cultural Landscape of Bali Province UNESCO World Heritage Site – Tegalalang Rice Terraces. Immerse yourself in Balinese history and traditions by walking in the emerald-green rice paddies that stretch as far as eyes can see.
The Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Ubud are some of the best things in Bali for offering beautiful green rice paddies. Also, they offer jungle swings and zip lines which make them some of the best places to visit in Bali.
In addition, watch the hard-working locals carry baskets along with the ancient segregation systems, marvel at the palm trees reaching for the skies, and take a picture of the lush fields through the Love Bali sign. To sum up, after busy and colorless big cities, Tegalalang Rice Terraces are a sight for sore eyes!
Opening hours: 7:00 – 18:00
Entrance fee: IDR 15,000 per person
Take a Tour to Nusa Penida
If you’re a fan of azure waters, steep hills, and green forests, you simply cannot afford to miss out on visiting Nusa Penida.
First of all, this picturesque island southeast of Bali is the best place to take pictures like no other. In fact, the views are so stunning that filters become the thing of the past!
If you’re coming to take awesome photos for your Instagram, Nuda Penida is one of the best places to visit in Bali.
Secondly, there are many places to go scuba diving, and Nusa Penida will certainly be up to your expectations. You can venture deep into the island and chase waterfalls cascading from steep rocks straight into the ocean.
Lastly, be sure to learn the dark secrets of Nusa Penida. The locals call Nusa Penida “the black magic island” and say that it is home to dark spirits.
Want more information?
Check out this guide for the
best Nusa Penida itinerary.
Discover Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud
Are you up for an early morning adventure in one of the best places of Southeast Asia? Do you want to feel the sun on your face as it slowly travels up the sky after a good night’s rest?
Then put Campuhan Ridge Walk right at the top of your list and prepare to be amazed. Discover the green hills and forests of Ubud, Bali as you walk the narrow path between vast fields that disappear beyond the horizon.
If you go to see the sunrise at Campuhan Ridge, you will be treated to an unforgettable sight of the pink skies appearing behind the misty forests, and if you’re lucky, you’ll experience all this beauty in blissful solitude. In addition, it’s one of the few places in Bali that doesn’t charge an entrance fee, so it is definitely one not to miss!
Hike Mount Batur
Another one for the early birds! Set your alarm clocks, get your hiking gear on, and start your way to Mount Batur, one of the many active volcanos in Indonesia and a popular spot to greet the new day.
As you follow the path taking you to the clouds and above, the early morning reveals its secrets to you, painting the sky in orange, pink, and gold and allowing you to bask in the very first rays of the hot Indonesian sun.
Whether you like to hike, enjoy witnessing a stunning sunset, or take in the gorgeous landscapes, Mount Batur is one of the best places to visit in Bali.
After taking stunning pictures of the sunrise, don’t be in a rush to return to your hotel; on your way down stop at Lake Batur to take in the stark blue surface mirroring the sky, or pay a visit to the hot springs – it’ll be a truly heavenly ending to the long hike!
Sleep in and Wander Around Sidemen
The valley of Sidemen, hidden on the banks of river Unda, is one of the more peaceful places to visit in Bali. If you’re tired of the noise and bustle, then nothing will restore your energy better than a couple of days here.
In other words, Sidemen is a little piece of paradise tucked away from the loud modern life.
You can wander around the rice fields and discover the ancient villages where life flows exactly as it did a hundred years ago. In addition, visit a local market or simply admire the majestic Mount Agung that makes the horizon even more stunning. Most importantly, take a deep breath and start exploring!
Get Wet at Nungnung Waterfall
If you can’t get enough of the Balinese nature, then make sure that your travel plans include a stop at Nungnung Waterfall. First of all, enjoy the stream cascading from a height of 50 meters culminates in a lake drowning in greenery, and all it takes to reach it is following the staircase of over 500 steps down.
Take a dip in the lake, enjoy the panorama, and try to capture the condensation filling the air on camera.
Just don’t be afraid of getting wet!
Check Out Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
For an intimate nature experience, visit Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Everything you need to know is in the name, really. To clarify, it’s your chance to walk through a sacred site of ancient temples that serves as a home to the Balinese long-tailed monkeys.
Out of all places to visit in Bali, the monkey forest sanctuary is one of the funniest and original for curious travelers.
With the mystical air in the forest, its green guardian statues, and the monkeys roaming, you’re in for a treat. Walk around the Sanctuary, breathe in its rich culture and history, and play with the monkeys. However, remember that monkeys like shiny things and, above all, plastic bags!
Spot Dolphins at Lovina Beach
A unique way to spend your morning is at sea, watching the dolphins leap in the air with the grace of synchronized swimmers. If you agree, then booking a dolphin tour should be at the top of your list of things to do in Bali.
Relax on the boat, spot the dolphins, or go snorkeling at the stop at Lovina Reef. To conclude, the experience will offer you a closer look at the inhabitants of the sea. You’ll certainly not leave unimpressed!
Opening hours: Depends on the tour company, usually early in the morning
Entrance fee: Depends on the tour company, the average price is around IDR 100,000
Pray at Besakih Temple
A trip to Bali wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Besakih Temple, the biggest and holiest Hindu temple in Bali. This “mother temple” consists of over 80 clan temples and the three main temples honoring gods Shiva, Brahma, and Vishnu await behind the beautifully arched gates.
Moreover, Besakih Temple is so sacred to the Balinese and it’s better to visit it with a local. To conclude, the Temple is one of the most interesting places to visit in Bali that you should visit, regardless if you’re a religious person or not.
Opening times: 8:00 – 17:00
Entrance fee: IDR 60,000 for adults – IDR 30,000 for children
See the Sunrise at Tanah Lot
A Balinese legend describes a man with supernatural powers who moved a rock to the sea because he had a vision telling him to build a shrine on it. Today, this rock homes Tanah Lot Temple.
Watch the sky go through the palette of colors as the sea changes from red to golden and bathe in the first morning light. If you’re lucky, you’ll witness Odalan. It is a ritual honoring the deities with offerings and performances ensuring the spiritual harmony of the place.
To sum up, the Tanah Lot Temple is certainly one of the best places to visit in Bali!
Opening hours: 7:00 – 19:00
Entrance fee: IDR 60,000 for adults, IDR 30,000 for children
Discover Tirta Empul Temple
One of the most magical places to visit in Bali is Tirta Empul Temple, which stands for “holy water spring”. This temple complex is known for its purification baths, some of which date as far as to the 10th century.
There are myths and legends of water springs miraculously turning poisonous and being punished by gods for their cruelty and selfishness.
You can take a walk through the Temple’s grounds, passing the lush gardens and cold mountain springs. In addition, it’s best to have a local by your side. In fact, they can guide you through all the invisible dos and don’ts of Tirta Empul.
Opening hours: 9:00 – 17:00
Entrance fee: IDR 50,000 for adults – IDR 25,000 for children
Goa Gajah – The Sacred Elephant Temple
Enter a mysterious cave through the mouth of a demon and find yourself at Goa Gajah – the Elephant Temple. Disclaimer: you won’t find any actual elephants at this temple, as its name comes from the Hindu god Ganesh bearing an elephant head, but it’s worth exploring nonetheless.
Study the intricate stone carvings found all around the temple complex and gaze at the ancient idols blackened by centuries of burning incenses.
Also, let your eyes rest on the holy springs, granting purity for those who believe. It’s not everywhere that you’ll see a religious site like that!
Join a Cooking Class at Bumbu Bali
Bumbu Bali is home to the authentic Balinese cuisine that’s impossible to forget once going back home. Join a class here, put on an apron, and prepare your notepads. This is your chance to learn the secrets of the best Balinese dishes from professional cooks.
If you like delicious and spicy food, a cooking class should be on your places to visit in Bali list!
You’ll go to the local market, master the spices, and make your own Kuah be siap (chicken soup) or Tahu Guling telor (tofu with eggs). Of course, you’ll get to enjoy the dishes after class.
We hope you’re ready to impress friends back at home! Last but not least, you’ll have the chance to make friends from all around the world.
Surf in Kuta Beach
There’s no better place to surf than in Kuta Beach – the birthplace of Balinese tourism. To start with, walk alongside the 2 km stretch of the beach until you reach the perfect spot. You’ll then be able to ride the waves or share it with other surfing enthusiasts.
Kuta beach is one amazing spot for surfers and to enjoy life. It is definitely one of the best places to visit in Bali.
Feel the soft sand beneath your feet and let the ocean breeze mess up your hair; there’s no other way to experience Kuta Beach!
Enjoy the Calm at Candidasa
The ultimate relaxation awaits you at Candidasa, a town in eastern Bali far away from all your worries and concerns. Wander through ancient villages, experiencing Balinese culture first-hand, and visit the black beach.
Also, go snorkeling with fish you’ve never seen before, or just enjoy the views. In fact, it doesn’t matter which places you visited in Bali: you’ll find all of it and more at Candidasa.
Conclusion
From the serene beaches and lush rice terraces to the culturally rich temples and vibrant nightlife, Bali offers a diverse and unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature and culture, Bali has something special for everyone. Still thinking about it? Don’t wait and get to Bali as soon as possible!
