Ubud- A Complete Guide
This comprehensive guide is your key to unlocking the treasures of Ubud, offering insights into where to stay, how to get around, where to eat, day trips to take, popular things to do, and more. Nestled in the heart of Bali, Ubud beckons travelers with its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and serene ambiance. It is the perfect place to base yourself to experience all that Bali has to offer.
How to get to Ubud:
Upon arrival at Denpasar International Airport you can reach Ubud a few different ways. You can download the Grab or Gojek app (similar to Uber) to obtain transportation. Alternatively, there will most likely be locals waiting outside the airport offering you a ride. Using a rideshare app it will cost you approximately 200,000-300,000IDR ($12.75-$19) while using a private driver will probably cos you between 300,000-400,000IDR ($19-$25.52). Google maps will likely tell you it will take about an hour to get from the airport to Ubud center, but this is not the case. Traffic is NOTORIOUS in Bali and depending on when you leave the airport, it could take 2-3 hours to reach Ubud so plan accordingly.
Where to Stay in Ubud:
Ubud offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler's preferences and budget. From luxury resorts and boutique hotels to charming guesthouses and budget-friendly hostels. Listed below are our top recommendations for all price points.
In the city center
Luxury: Puri Saraswati Dijiwa Ubud, Goya Boutique Resort, Alan Indah Ubud
Mid-Range: Dewangga Ubud, Padma Ubud Restreat, Buana Ubud Inn
Budget: Ayunda Ubud Cottage, Ubud Kerta City Hotel, Jiwa's House
Outside the city center
Choosing the right location for your stay in Ubud can significantly impact your experience on the island. While the bustling city center offers convenience and proximity to attractions, opting for accommodations outside the urban hub provides a tranquil retreat amidst Bali's natural beauty. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision:
Staying inside the city center
Pros:
1. Convenience: Staying in Ubud's city center puts you within walking distance of restaurants, shops, markets, and cultural attractions like the Ubud Palace and Ubud Art Market.
2. Accessibility: With numerous transportation options readily available, including taxis, scooters, and bicycle rentals, exploring Ubud and its surroundings is convenient and hassle-free.
3. Vibrant Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Ubud's bustling streets, where you can mingle with locals, savor authentic cuisine, and experience the town's lively arts and cultural scene.
Cons:
1. Crowds and Noise: The city center can get crowded and noisy, especially during peak tourist seasons, making it less conducive to relaxation and tranquility.
2. Limited Nature Access: While Ubud offers pockets of greenery and scenic views, staying in the city center means you'll have to venture just outside the urban area to fully immerse yourself in Bali's natural landscapes.
Staying outside the city center
Pros:
1. Peace and Serenity: Accommodations outside Ubud's city center offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, allowing you to unwind and reconnect with nature amidst lush rice terraces and tranquil villages.
2. Scenic Surroundings: Enjoy stunning views of Bali's picturesque landscapes, including rice paddies, jungle-clad hills, and flowing rivers, creating a serene backdrop for relaxation and exploration.
Cons:
1. Limited Amenities: Accommodations outside Ubud's city center may have fewer dining options compared to those in the urban area, requiring you to plan ahead for meals.
2. Transportation Dependency: While secluded accommodations offer tranquility, they may require transportation (such as a scooter or private driver) to access Ubud's main attractions and amenities, adding to your travel expenses and logistics.
Ultimately, whether you choose to stay inside Ubud's city center or outside depends on your preferences, budget, and desired experience. Whether you seek convenience and vibrancy or tranquility and immersion in nature, Ubud offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs.
How to Get Around Ubud:
Navigating Ubud is relatively easy, thanks to its compact size and abundance of transportation options. Consider the following modes of transport:
Walking: Many attractions in Ubud are within walking distance of each other, making it convenient to explore on foot.
Scooter Rental: Renting a scooter is a popular and cost-effective way to get around Ubud and explore its surrounding areas. We DO NOT recommend you ride a motorbike unless you have experience.
Taxi: Blue Bird taxis are readily available in Ubud and offer a safe and reliable option for longer journeys.
Private Driver: Hire a private driver for a more personalized and hassle-free travel experience, especially for day trips and excursions. We’ve used Ketut as our driver many times and he is one of the best drivers in Bali! You can reach him on WhatsApp +62 819-9940-5463.
Where to Eat in Ubud:
Ubud is a food lover's paradise, boasting a diverse culinary scene that caters to every palate. Whether you're craving traditional Balinese cuisine, international fare, or healthy organic meals, Ubud has it all! There is something for every price range however you will find the most affordable cuisine at local Warungs. The list below consists of restaurants we’ve personally eaten at and enjoyed.
Ikigai Ubud- Sushi
MD Burger Ubud- Burgers
Sweet Orange Warung- Local balinese food and STUNNING views of the rice terraces
The Lair- Cocktails and small plates. Requires reservations
Tukies Coconut Shop- THE BEST coconut ice cream (try the affogato)
Chai of the Tiger- Indian
Pizza Cult- Vegan and delicious
Warung Citta Ovest Pizza & Pasta- Pizza (great happy hour)
Lazy Cats Cafe- Coffee and breakfast
Lexy’s Ground- Coffee and breakfast/brunch
Taco Cartel- Mexican
Kebun Bistro- Western
Section 9- Coffee with rice terrace views
Sinamon Bali Ubud- Delicious cinnamon rolls and coffee
9 Angels & 9 Bamboo- Balinese
Day Trips to Take:
While Ubud itself offers plenty of attractions to keep you entertained, there are also numerous day trips and excursions worth exploring:
Balinese Cooking Class at an Organic Farm
Ubud: Waterfalls, Water Temple, & Rice Terraces Private Tour
Zip Line and Jungle Swing Adventure
Waterfalls, Water Temple & Rice Terraces
Rice Terraces & Villages Half-Day Fat Tire E-Bike Tour
Ayung River: All Inclusive Rafting Adventure
Ubud: Gorilla Face Quad Bike, Jungle Swing, Waterfall & Meal
Tirta Empul: Temple Tour with Optional Spiritual Cleansing
Popular Things to Do in Ubud:
Ubud offers a wealth of cultural, recreational, and wellness activities to suit every traveler's interests. Here are some popular things to do during your stay:
Attend a Traditional Balinese Dance Performance: Immerse yourself in Bali's rich cultural heritage with a mesmerizing dance performance, such as the Kecak Fire Dance or Legong Dance.
Visit Ubud Art Market: Explore this bustling market to shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and local artworks, including batik, wood carvings, and silver jewelry.
Take a Yoga Class: Rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul with a yoga session at one of Ubud's many renowned yoga studios and wellness centers. The Yoga Barn is one of the most popular places to take a yoga class.
Explore Ubud's Temples: Discover the spiritual side of Bali by visiting sacred temples such as Pura Taman Saraswati, Pura Gunung Lebah, and Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal.
Experience Balinese Cooking: Learn the art of Balinese cuisine with a hands-on cooking class, where you'll shop for ingredients at a local market and prepare traditional dishes with expert guidance.
At sunset or sunrise, walk along the Campuhan Ridge Walk and enjoy stunning views of Ubud. Be sure to bring water, wear sunscreen and bug spray.
Visit the Ubud Monkey Forest to get up close and personal with monkeys. PRO TIP: DO NOT bring any food as the monkeys will seek this out. Be careful will small items like sunglasses and plastic water bottles as the monkeys can get quite cheeky.
Get a massage at one of the many spas in Ubud. Our personal favorite is Gratia Spa, an affordable and relaxing spa perfect for an hour long foot massage for $6 or a full body massage.
Practical Tips for Ubud:
Cash: You can find ATMs all over Ubud by using google maps or even asking a local. Be mindful that most ATMS are going to charge a fee each time you take money out. We recommend to get the CHarles Schwab debit card which will reimburse you for ATM fees. We also recommend to deny the conversion rate when prompted by the ATM. You want to let your bank decide the conversion rate and not the ATM as it is usually higher. Cash is king in Bali and you will need to purchase souveniers, pay for tours and some accommodations, redtaurants etc.
Credit Cards: It is common that places will add a 3% charge for using a credit card. Be sure to use a credit card that has no foreign transaction fees. We recommend the Chase Sapphire Reserver card for travel. To read more about using credit cards while traveling click here.
Currency Exchange: We only recommend to use a currency exchange place in an emergency situation. They tend to charge fees/commissions and don’t offer the best rate. The best thing you can do is get a card that reimburses you for ATM fees and just take money out of the ATM.
Bugs: Encountering bugs is inevitable due to the island's tropical climate and abundant biodiversity. From tiny ants to buzzing mosquitoes, these critters are an integral part of Bali's ecosystem. While it's essential to take precautions against insect bites and stings, such as using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves, it's also crucial to be mindful of food storage. Ants, in particular, have a knack for finding food quickly, so it's best to store all food items in sealed containers or the refrigerator to prevent unwanted infestations. Despite their presence, embracing Bali's natural environment, bugs and all, adds to the unique charm of this tropical paradise. PRO TIP: Buy bug repellent in Bali at any convenience store. It’s affordable and specifically made for the mosquitos in Bali.
Safety: As with travel to any destination, it’s important to always stay aware of your surroundings. Bali boasts a remarkably low crime rate, and its people are known for their gentle and honest nature. Reliant on tourism, incidents of crime are rare occurrences. However, occasional reports surface of theft, such as mobile phones or bags snatched by individuals on motorbikes. Despite these isolated incidents, Bali remains a safe and welcoming destination, with its residents dedicated to preserving the island's reputation as a peaceful haven for visitors.
Shopping: Shopping in Bali is an exhilarating experience, with its vibrant markets, boutique shops, and traditional craft villages offering a treasure trove of unique finds. When it comes to transactions, cash is king, as many vendors may not accept credit cards, especially in local markets. Haggling is a common practice in Bali, particularly in markets and smaller shops, where bargaining is expected and can be an enjoyable part of the shopping experience. It's appropriate to haggle politely and respectfully, starting with a lower price and negotiating towards a mutually agreeable deal. Remember to approach haggling with a friendly demeanor and a sense of humor, recognizing that it's all part of the cultural exchange and the thrill of scoring a great bargain in Bali.
Grocery Stores: In Bali, grocery stores cater predominantly to Western tastes, while locals prefer shopping for fresh ingredients at bustling local markets. Convenience stores offer a wide range of essentials, making it convenient for visitors to find what they need. However, with the affordability of dining out in Bali, purchasing groceries to cook at your accommodation is often unnecessary. In remote areas, such as more secluded accommodations, stocking up on simple items like ramen-type noodles might come in handy. For those following specific dietary preferences like veganism, soy milk or almond milk can be found, though indulging in a latte at a local cafe, priced at around $2, proves to be a convenient and cost-effective alternative.
Coffee: Coffee in Bali is a delightful blend of cultural influences and local traditions. Introduced by the Dutch during colonial times, Balinese coffee is distinct for its unfiltered preparation, often resulting in grounds settling at the bottom of the cup. While many accommodations offer instant coffee packets for convenience, exploring the plethora of cafes in Ubud is a must. These cafes serve up delicious Western-style coffee at affordable prices, providing a cozy atmosphere to indulge in your caffeine fix. For a unique experience, consider trying Lewak coffee, a local specialty made from coffee beans that have been consumed and excreted by civets. Taking a coffee plantation tour offers insight into the production process of this sought-after delicacy, allowing visitors to witness firsthand the journey from bean to brew.
Visas for Bali
Travelers to Bali are required to obtain a visa on arrival or apply for a visa in advance, depending on their nationality. It is essential to check the specific visa requirements and application processes before planning a trip to Bali. Various visa options, including tourist, social, and business visas, are available, each with its own set of conditions. For more information on Visa requirements- click here to be taken to the state departments official guidelines. The visa on arrival is available for purchase when you land at DPS airport and is good for 30 days in Bali. It can be renewed so be sure to save everything they give you when you purchase your VOA which costs about $30USD. To renew your visa is not the easiest process- it requires multiple trips to the immigration office which is quite a hike from any of the popular destinations in Bali. We actually used a visa service which cost over $200 but completely simplified the process with only 1 visit to the immigration office and extended our visa for another 30 days. If you need to extend your visa we recommend starting the process at least 10 business days in advance. Contact this company as they made the visa process so simple.
With its enchanting beauty, rich culture, and abundance of attractions, Ubud offers a truly immersive experience that captures the essence of Bali. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural enlightenment, this vibrant town has something to offer every traveler. Use this guide as your roadmap to navigating Ubud's wonders and creating unforgettable memories in one of Bali's most beloved destinations.
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