The Ultimate Bali Itinerary: How to Plan the Perfect Bali Trip

If there is one place in the world where I could probably navigate with my eyes closed, it is Bali.

I’ve visited Bali 36 times.

Yes, thirty-six.

It’s like my second home. My home away from home. The place I go when I don’t know where to go and can’t be bothered figuring it out. When I want cheap, cheerful, relaxing, and easy. 

I’ve been visiting since 1999, and over all those trips I’ve watched Bali change, watched new areas explode in popularity, watched old favourites disappear, and discovered plenty of places I keep coming back to again and again.

So when someone asks me how long they should spend in Bali, where they should stay and what they should actually do, I have some opinions.

And my biggest one?

Don’t try to see all of Bali in seven days.

Bali might look small on a map, but the traffic can make getting around the island painfully slow. The easiest way to ruin your Bali holiday is to spend it constantly checking out of hotels, sitting in cars and trying to tick every attraction off your list.

Nusa Penida Bali guide

For a 7 day Bali itinerary, I would keep it simple.

Two bases.

Three nights in Ubud, followed by four nights in Legian.

That’s it.

You get jungle, culture, adventure, rice fields, waterfalls, massages, beaches, shopping, water parks, restaurants and nightlife without constantly packing your suitcase.

And if you have longer than seven days, I’ve got options for that too.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide

How Many Days Do You Need in Bali?

For a first trip, I think seven days is a great starting point.

It’s long enough to experience two very different sides of Bali without turning your holiday into a logistical exercise.

If you only have a long weekend, you can absolutely still have a fantastic time. Just pick one area and stay there.

If you have 10 days, I’d add a third destination.

If you have 14 days, I’d add a fourth.

The secret is not trying to do everything.

It is choosing the right places and actually enjoying them.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Sideman waterfall

My Recommended Bali Trip Lengths

3–4 days: Pick one area and stay put.

5 days: Choose two areas, but keep the itinerary relaxed.

7 days: Ubud + Legian. This is my recommended first-timer itinerary.

10 days: Add Nusa Dua for some serious relaxation and resort time.

14 days: Add Sanur for day trips to Nusa Penida, Lombok, Gili, Nusa Lembongan.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Ubud Hotel

My 7 Day Bali Itinerary at a Glance

DaysWhere to stayWhat to do
Days 1–3UbudJungle, culture, massages, adventure, rice fields, swings and waterfalls
Days 4–7LegianWaterbom, shopping, beaches, surfing, restaurants, Seminyak and day trips

Simple.

And that’s exactly how I like my Bali trips.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Bali Nature Slide

Days 1–3: Ubud

Why I Would Start Your Bali Trip in Ubud

I would head straight to Ubud when you arrive.

Ubud is magical.

It feels completely different from the beach areas of southern Bali. This is where you’ll find the jungle, rice fields, monkeys, art, culture, yoga, waterfalls and all those quintessential Bali experiences people imagine before they arrive.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Bali Rice Terrace

Ubud is also where I think you should embrace the fact that you’re in Bali.

Slow down.

Get a massage.

Eat.

Explore.

Get dirty on an ATV.

Float down a river.

Swing over the jungle.

And then get another massage because you’ve earned it.

Ubud has plenty to do, which is why I recommend three nights rather than trying to squeeze it into one or two.

Read my complete guide to Things to Do in Ubud here.

 

Day 1: Arrive in Ubud and Relax

After your flight, don’t go crazy trying to fit in five attractions.

Get to your hotel, check in and settle in.

Then do what Bali does best.

Get a massage.

I don’t really have one single favourite spa in Ubud because I’ve been to so many, but I do love the convenience of having a massage therapist come directly to your villa.

Casa Raja is one option I’ve enjoyed for villa massages.

I’ve also had good experiences at Sedona, near Bintang Supermarket. It’s been a favourite of mine over the years, although prices have increased quite a bit.

For beauty treatments, Skin is another one to put on your list.

And if you’re looking for nails or lashes, I have a fantastic nail artist and eyelash artist in Penestanan. I have their WhatsApp details, so leave me a comment if you’d love their numbers and I’m happy to send them through.

Spend the afternoon wandering around Ubud, checking out the shops, galleries and streets around the centre.

Then have a beautiful Balinese dinner and call it a night.

You’ve got two much more adventurous days coming.

 

Day 2: Ubud Adventure Day

If you’re the kind of traveller who likes a bit of adrenaline, this is your day.

I’d choose between:

  • ATV riding
  • Canyon tubing
  • Whitewater rafting

For ATV and canyon tubing, Bali Quad is my go-to recommendation.

I’ve written a whole guide about the experience, so if you want to do this, read my Bali Quad ATV and Canyon Tubing guide here.

That article can give you the full rundown, including what to expect and current pricing.

Personally, I love the idea of getting out into the landscape rather than spending the entire day looking at it through a car window.

ATVing gives you a completely different perspective of Bali, while canyon tubing and whitewater rafting get you right into the rivers and jungle.

This is the day I’d book ahead rather than leaving everything until you arrive.

Then, once you’ve exhausted yourself, you know what comes next.

Massage.

Obviously.

 

Day 3: Tegallalang Rice Terraces, Bali Swing and Tegenungan Waterfall

This is your classic Bali scenery day.

Start at Tegallalang Rice Terraces, also known as Ceking Rice Terrace.

This is one of those places where you can get the quintessential Bali Instagram moment.

Lush green rice terraces, tropical greenery and those beautiful layered landscapes that make you stop and take approximately 47 photos.

And yes, this is also where I did my Bali Swing.

There are countless Bali Swing experiences around the island, but doing one at Tegallalang means you can combine two classic Bali experiences in one stop.

Our swing experience was around $35 including dress hire, although prices can change, so check current pricing before you go.

And yes, I absolutely recommend the dress hire.

If you’re going to swing dramatically over a jungle valley, you may as well dress for the occasion.

From there, you can continue your day exploring the surrounding area before heading towards Tegenungan Waterfall.

Tegenungan is another spectacular addition to your Ubud itinerary, with lush tropical scenery surrounding the waterfall.

 

Want to Add Even More to Your Ubud Itinerary?

You could add:

  • Monkey Forest
  • Temple visits
  • A Balinese cooking class
  • Yoga
  • Coffee experiences
  • More waterfalls
  • More rice terraces
  • A traditional Balinese experience

But remember.

You don’t get extra points for being exhausted.

Three nights in Ubud gives you enough flexibility to choose the experiences you actually enjoy.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Monkey Forest Ubud

Where to Stay in Ubud

If I were choosing where to stay in Ubud, Penestanan is one of my favourite areas.

It’s a little outside the centre of Ubud, which means it isn’t quite as convenient if your priority is walking everywhere.

I normally hire a scooter or use taxis when I’m staying there.

But I love the atmosphere.

If you want to be closer to the centre and prefer being able to walk out of your accommodation and straight into Ubud, Artini Cottages is another option I’d recommend.

So when choosing your Ubud accommodation, think about what matters more to you:

Atmosphere and a quieter location, or walkability and convenience?

There is no wrong answer.

For more accommodation recommendations, check out my guide to Best Areas and Places to Stay in Bali.

 

And You Must Eat at Taco Casa in Ubud

I know I’ve already mentioned Taco Casa.

I’m mentioning it again.

Because it’s my favourite.

I’ve been going to Taco Casa in Ubud for years. It has changed a lot over that time, but I still make a point of visiting every time I’m in Bali.

Yes, there is also a Taco Casa in Seminyak.

But for me?

The Ubud one wins.

If you’re planning your Ubud itinerary, put it on the list.

And if you want more ideas, I’ve got a whole post about Things to Do in Ubud that you can use to build your own itinerary.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Taco Casa

Days 4–7: Legian

Why I Recommend Legian Over Canggu or Kuta

After Ubud, I would move south to Legian.

Now, before everyone starts yelling at me about their favourite Bali neighbourhood, hear me out.

Kuta used to be the hotspot.

It isn’t where I’d choose to base myself now.

And while Canggu is hugely popular, I personally think it has become way too busy.

For a first-time Bali visitor, I think Legian is the happy medium.

You’re close to Kuta.

You’re close to Seminyak.

You’re close to the beach.

You’re close to shopping.

You’re close to restaurants and nightlife.

And you can get to a stack of attractions without spending your entire holiday in the back of a car.

But one of my favourite things about Legian is something much simpler.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Legian hotel

You can actually walk.

You can walk to the beach, walk to shops, walk to restaurants and easily explore the surrounding area.

If you want to get further afield, Seminyak and Kuta are a quick scooter ride away.

And then there is another major advantage.

The airport is close.

That matters more than you might think.

You can squeeze in some last-minute shopping, have one final meal and then get to the airport without needing to spend hours travelling across the island.

For me, that’s a very satisfying way to end a Bali trip.

 

Where Should You Stay in Bali?

I’ve stayed in a lot of Bali hotels over the years, so rather than pretending I can choose one single favourite, I’ve put together a whole guide.

Read my guide to the Best Locations to Stay in Bali here.

It covers different areas and accommodation styles, so you can choose what works for your trip and budget.

 

Day 4: Ubud to Legian and Explore

Leave Ubud and head south.

This is one of those times when I recommend using a private driver.

I have a private driver I use in Bali, and I love having someone there waiting for me rather than trying to organise transport when I’m tired, carrying luggage and arriving in a new place.

Private drivers are particularly useful for airport transfers and longer journeys such as:

  • Airport → Ubud
  • Ubud → Legian
  • Legian → Ubud
  • Ubud → Sanur
  • Legian → Nusa Dua

You know someone is going to be there, you know where you’re going and you can get there without worrying about whether you’ll find a car.

Once I’m actually in a town, though, I will usually use Grab.

It’s basically the Asian equivalent of Uber, and you can order either a car or a scooter.

It’s a fantastic way to get around Bali.

Personally, when I’m in Ubud, I also ride a scooter myself.

But please be careful.

Make sure you understand the risks, licensing requirements and your travel insurance conditions before getting on a scooter. Travel insurance does not necessarily cover you if you’re riding without the required licence or under circumstances excluded by your policy.

Do your own research and make your own decision. Here are my tips for driving in Bali.

Once you’re in Legian, don’t feel like you need to fill the entire day with activities.

Check into your accommodation, have a wander and get your bearings. Don’t forget an esim to make life easier for that. 

This is a great day for:

  • The beach
  • Shopping
  • Markets
  • Poppies Lane
  • Seminyak
  • A massage
  • A long lunch
  • Sunset drinks
  • A great dinner

Bali flower bath

Day 5: Waterbom Bali

If you like water parks, Waterbom Bali is a must.

It is genuinely one of my favourite water parks in the world.

And this is another reason I like staying in Legian.

You’re close enough to Kuta that getting to Waterbom is easy.

Spend the day riding slides, swimming and generally behaving like a child again.

Because holidays are for fun.

You don’t need to visit a temple every single day to have a culturally enriching experience.

Sometimes you need to scream your way down a giant waterslide.

Afterwards, head back to Legian, shower and get ready for dinner.

You could head into Seminyak for one of the area’s many restaurants, or check out some of my Bali food recommendations.

 

Day 6: Shopping, Surfing and Seminyak

Today is your choose-your-own-adventure day.

If you want to shop, you’ve got plenty of options around Legian, Kuta and Seminyak.

Poppies Lane is an obvious place to explore, along with the markets and shops throughout the surrounding areas.

If you’ve always wanted to learn to surf, Kuta Beach is also a good place to give it a go.

Or skip the surfing completely and spend the morning by the pool.

This is your holiday.

Then head to Seminyak for dinner.

Taco Casa is one of my favourites.

And if you’re looking for somewhere completely different afterwards, check out The Iron Fairies.

It’s a very cool bar with a seriously memorable atmosphere.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Yoga

Day 7: Your Choice of Bali Adventure

For your final full day, I’d keep things flexible.

You could spend the day relaxing around Legian.

You could head to the beach.

You could shop until your suitcase threatens to explode.

Or you could take a day trip.

Want Some Water Activities?

You could head to Nusa Dua for water sports.

It isn’t necessarily at the top of my personal Bali priority list, but if you love water activities, it is an easy addition to your itinerary.

Want Food and a Sunset?

Head to Jimbaran.

A seafood dinner on the beach is a classic Bali experience, and it makes a lovely final night.

Want a Quiet Day?

Do absolutely nothing.

Seriously.

Get a massage.

Sit beside the pool.

Drink something cold.

Read a book.

This is Bali.

You don’t have to spend every second sightseeing.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Bali cookin class

What Should You Eat in Bali?

You cannot come to Bali and survive on smoothie bowls and cocktails.

Well, you can, but why would you?

Bali is an amazing place to eat, and I’ve got a whole Bali Food Guide dedicated to what you should try.

But there are a few things that absolutely belong on your list.

Nasi Goreng

Nasi goreng is Indonesian fried rice and one of those dishes you’ll see everywhere.

It’s one of the primary things I’d recommend eating in Bali.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Nasi Goreng

Mie Goreng

If rice isn’t your thing, try mie goreng.

It’s the noodle-loving cousin of nasi goreng and another Indonesian classic.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Mie Goreng

Pisang Goreng

But my personal favourite?

Pisang goreng.

Fried bananas.

And when they’re served warm with honey or coconut syrup and a scoop of ice cream?

Oh my goodness.

The banana gets deliciously soft inside while the outside is golden and crispy.

This is the sort of food I could happily eat every day in Bali.

For more things to eat, restaurants to try and Bali food inspiration, head to my Bali Food Guide here.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Pisan Goreng

How to Get Around Bali

One of the biggest mistakes I see people make when planning a Bali itinerary is underestimating the traffic.

Bali isn’t somewhere I recommend constantly changing hotels just because a map makes two places look close together.

For longer journeys, I prefer a private driver.

Airport transfers are particularly good with a private driver because you know someone is going to be there waiting for you, rather than arriving exhausted and hoping you can organise transport.

I also use private drivers for journeys between areas, such as Ubud to Legian or Legian to Nusa Dua.

Once I’m in a particular town, I generally use Grab.

You can choose between a car and a scooter, depending on where you’re going and what you’re comfortable with.

And yes, I personally ride a scooter in Ubud.

But please don’t assume that because I do it, you should.

Check your licence requirements and your travel insurance policy before riding. Some travel insurance policies have exclusions around scooters, engine size, licensing and riding conditions.

Do your own research and make the decision that’s right for you.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Bali Scooter

What Is the Best Time to Visit Bali?

Bali is a year-round destination, but for travellers from Perth, it is particularly easy to plan around WA’s public holidays and school holidays.

The dry season is generally popular for a reason, but the wet season can still deliver plenty of beautiful Bali days and sometimes better value.

If you’re travelling over a Perth long weekend or school holiday period, remember that you’re not the only person who has spotted the cheap flight.

Book ahead.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Jimbaran

How Much Does 7 Days in Bali Cost?

How long is a piece of string?

Honestly.

Your 7 day Bali itinerary could be as cheap as chips, or you could spend an absolutely ridiculous amount of money.

I’ve found places to stay for around $50 a night, which I love.

You can eat at local warungs where a meal can cost around $1.50.

You can travel simply, eat locally and have an amazing Bali holiday without spending a fortune.

Or you can stay in luxury resorts, hang out at pool clubs, eat at expensive restaurants and spend your days at places like the W.

So how much does a week in Bali cost?

As much as you want it to.

Your accommodation, food, activities, transport and shopping will determine your budget.

That’s one of the things I love about Bali.

You can make it work for almost any travel style.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Bali with kids

What to Pack for Bali

The packing list for Bali isn’t complicated.

Bring a swimsuit.

Seriously.

It’s hot.

You’ll probably be swimming.

You’ll probably be sitting beside a pool.

And you’ll definitely want something to wear to the beach.

For everyday sightseeing, think shorts, T-shirts, light clothing and comfortable shoes.

If you’re doing the Bali Swing at Tegallalang, you can also hire one of those gorgeous flowing dresses for the experience.

That’s what I did, and the dress hire was included in our approximately $35 Bali Swing experience.

Then add the usual travel essentials, sunscreen, toiletries, medication and anything else you personally need.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Bali with kids

Planning a Bali Trip With Kids?

Your perfect Bali itinerary will depend enormously on who you’re travelling with.

If you’re travelling with younger children, don’t simply copy an adults-only Bali itinerary and hope for the best.

I’ve put together a guide to 101 Things to Do in Bali With Kids, which is packed with ideas you can use to build your own family itinerary.

Pick the activities your kids will actually enjoy, then slot them into your Ubud and Legian itinerary.

Waterbom, Bali Swing experiences, animals, beaches, pools and adventure activities can all help make a Bali holiday work brilliantly for families.

Bali with kids

Planning a Bali Trip With Teenagers?

Teenagers need their own itinerary.

Or at least that’s what I’ve learned.

If you’re travelling with teenagers, I’ve also got 81 Things to Do in Bali With Teenagers.

Use that guide to choose the activities your teenagers will actually be excited about, then build them into your seven-day Bali itinerary.

Because if your teenager is happy, everyone is happy.

Mostly.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Bali with teenagers

Should You Stay in a Bali Villa or Hotel?

Another question I get asked all the time is whether you should stay in a villa or hotel in Bali.

There isn’t one right answer.

It depends on how you’re travelling, who you’re travelling with and what sort of holiday you want.

If you’re travelling as a family or group, a villa can be fantastic.

If you want hotel facilities, restaurants, daily housekeeping, pools and the convenience of being right in the middle of everything, a hotel can make more sense.

I’ve stayed in plenty of both, so I’ve written a whole guide comparing the two.

Read my Bali Villa vs Hotel guide here.

Use that alongside my Best Areas and Places to Stay in Bali guide to work out what suits your trip.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Bali villa

Only Have a Long Weekend in Bali?

Good news.

You can absolutely do Bali on a long weekend.

But please don’t try to recreate this seven-day itinerary in three or four days.

Pick one base.

I’d choose either Ubud if you want jungle, culture, adventure and wellness, or Legian if you want beaches, shopping, restaurants and easy access to Kuta and Seminyak.

If you’re travelling from Perth, Bali is particularly easy to turn into a long-weekend escape.

And WA public holidays make this especially tempting.

But remember that you’re probably not the only Perth person who has had the same brilliant idea.

Public holiday Bali can be busy.

So book flights, accommodation and popular activities early.

And if you’re only there for three or four days, resist the urge to change hotels.

The fewer logistics, the more holiday you’ll actually have.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Ubud

Have 10 Days in Bali?

Now we can have some fun.

For a 10 day Bali itinerary, I’d keep my original seven-day plan and add a third base.

Days 8–10: Nusa Dua

Head to Nusa Dua.

This is where I would stop trying to tick things off the list.

Instead, embrace the resort.

Book somewhere beautiful.

Enjoy the pool.

Have long lunches.

Get massages.

Go to the beach.

If you want to add some water sports, this is the time to do it.

Nusa Dua is a very different Bali experience to Ubud and Legian.

And that’s exactly why I like adding it to a longer itinerary.

After all the exploring, give yourself permission to do absolutely nothing.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Nusa Dua water sports

Have 14 Days in Bali?

If you’ve got two weeks, I would add a fourth destination.

Days 11–14: Sanur

After Ubud, Legian and Nusa Dua, head to Sanur.

Sanur has a completely different feel again.

It’s more relaxed and makes a great base if you want to explore some of Bali’s offshore islands.

And this is where I would add one of my favourite day trips.

Take a Day Trip to Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is stunning.

If you have 14 days in Bali, I absolutely recommend adding it to your itinerary.

You can take a day trip from Sanur and see some of the island’s dramatic scenery, cliffs and beautiful water.

We used GetYourGuide for our Nusa Penida experience, and a day trip makes it easy to add without having to pack up and change accommodation again.

If you love island scenery and dramatic landscapes, this is one I’d put on the list.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Nusa Penida

Bali Travel Tips Before You Go

There are a few things I’d recommend researching before your Bali holiday that aren’t necessarily part of your daily itinerary.

I’ve written separate guides so you don’t have to find all the practical information in the middle of a 3,000-word itinerary.

Bali Belly

Nobody wants Bali Belly.

Read my Bali Belly guide before you go so you know what you’re dealing with and how to reduce your risk.

Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is another thing travellers should know about before travelling to Bali.

Read my Bali Dengue Fever guide for the practical information you need before your trip.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Dengue Fever

Getting Around Bali

If you plan to hire a scooter, use Grab, book a private driver or organise airport transfers, read my Bali transport guide for more tips.

Bali Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is one of those things you don’t want to think about until you need it.

But make sure you understand what your policy covers, particularly if you plan to ride a scooter or take part in adventure activities such as rafting or ATVing.

Read the fine print before you go.

My 7 Day Bali Itinerary in Full

Day 1

Arrive in Ubud

  • Check in
  • Explore Ubud
  • Massage
  • Dinner

Day 2

Ubud adventure

  • ATV
  • Canyon tubing or whitewater rafting
  • Massage
  • Dinner

Day 3

Ubud scenery

  • Tegallalang Rice Terraces / Ceking Rice Terrace
  • Bali Swing
  • Tegenungan Waterfall
  • Optional additional Ubud attraction
  • Dinner

Day 4

Ubud → Legian

  • Private driver
  • Check in
  • Poppies Lane and shopping
  • Beach
  • Seminyak dinner

Day 5

Waterbom

  • Full day at Waterbom Bali
  • Dinner in Kuta, Legian or Seminyak

Day 6

Shopping, surfing and Seminyak

  • Shopping
  • Optional Kuta surf lesson
  • Seminyak
  • Taco Casa
  • The Iron Fairies

Day 7

Your choice

  • Relax
  • Beach
  • Nusa Dua water sports
  • Jimbaran seafood
  • Shopping
  • Massage

And that’s it.

No five hotel changes.

No attempting to see every corner of the island.

No spending half your holiday in traffic.

Just two bases and seven days of Bali goodness.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Ubud

My Bali Itinerary Philosophy

After 36 visits to Bali, I’ve learned that the best Bali itinerary isn’t necessarily the one with the most attractions.

It’s the one where you come home thinking:

“I want to go back.”

And trust me.

You probably will.

Bali has this funny habit of doing that.

You visit once.

Then again.

Then suddenly you’re me and you’ve been 36 times.

The beauty of Bali is that you can make it whatever sort of holiday you want.

Want adventure?

You’ve got it.

Want luxury?

Absolutely.

Want nightlife?

Yep.

Want yoga and wellness?

Everywhere.

Want incredible food?

Obviously.

Want to sit beside a pool for seven days and barely move?

Also completely acceptable.

That’s why I keep coming back.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Sideman

Frequently Asked Questions About a Bali Itinerary

Is 7 days enough for Bali?

Yes. I think seven days is a great amount of time for a first Bali trip, particularly if you limit yourself to two bases. My recommended seven-day Bali itinerary is three nights in Ubud and four nights in Legian.

What is the best Bali itinerary for first timers?

For a first-time visitor, I recommend Ubud and Legian. Ubud gives you jungle, culture, adventure and rice fields, while Legian gives you beaches, shopping, restaurants, nightlife and easy access to Kuta and Seminyak.

How many days should I spend in Ubud?

For this itinerary, I recommend three nights in Ubud. That gives you enough time for relaxation, adventure, rice terraces, the Bali Swing and a waterfall without rushing.

Is Legian better than Kuta?

I prefer Legian as a base because I find it a happy medium. You’re close to Kuta and Seminyak, close to the beach and shopping, and you can walk to many things.

Should I stay in Canggu?

Canggu is hugely popular, but I personally find it way too busy these days. For a first Bali trip, I’d choose Ubud and Legian instead and visit Canggu if there is something specific you want to experience there.

Is Nusa Penida worth visiting?

Absolutely. Nusa Penida is stunning, and I recommend adding a day trip if you have 14 days in Bali. I used GetYourGuide for my trip.

Can you do Bali without hiring a scooter?

Absolutely. I often use Grab once I’m staying in a particular area, and I prefer private drivers for longer journeys and airport transfers.

Is Bali good for families?

Yes. There are plenty of things to do in Bali with children. Check out my guide to 101 Things to Do in Bali With Kids to build a family-friendly itinerary.

What can teenagers do in Bali?

There is plenty to keep teenagers entertained, from water parks and adventure activities to beaches, shopping and more. I’ve put together 81 Things to Do in Bali With Teenagers specifically to help families build their itinerary.

Is it better to stay in a Bali villa or hotel?

It depends on your travel style, group and budget. I’ve stayed in both and have put together a Bali Villa vs Hotel guide to help you decide.

What should I eat in Bali?

Start with nasi goreng, mie goreng and pisang goreng. And if you want to know what else I recommend eating, check out my Bali Food Guide.

Is Bali expensive?

It can be.

It can also be incredibly cheap.

I’ve found accommodation for around $50 a night and eaten at local warungs for around $1.50. At the other end of the scale, you can stay in luxury resorts, visit pool clubs and spend a lot more.

Your Bali budget is really up to you.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide - Arna Nusa Lembongon

More Bali Travel Tips and Planning Guides

This itinerary is designed to be your starting point.

But after 36 visits to Bali, I’ve accumulated rather a lot of Bali content.

So don’t feel like you need to stop here.

Depending on your trip, you might also want to read:

Accommodation

Best All Inclusive Resort Bali? My Family Stay at Samabe Bali Suites & Villas

What It’s Like Staying at TanaDewa Resort Ubud, Bali & A Luxury Jungle Retreat in the Heart of Ubud

5 Must-Visit Spots When Staying at TanaDewa Nusa Dua Bali

Choose Samanvaya For Your Next Adults Only Bali Getaway

Ubud Luxury Accommodation: Gdas Bali Health & Wellness Resort

Top 10 Gorgeous Locations To Feel The Magic Of Bali

10 Reasons Your Teens Will Love Holiday Inn Resort Bali Nusa Dua

Bali Family Accommodation: Villa or Hotel?

Nusa Dua Family Resort: 13 Reasons Teens Choose Grand Mirage Resort

Looking For A Popular Family Resort in Kuta? Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort

3 Reasons To Find Your Bali Vacation Villa On Villa Finder

Mas: 5 Reasons To Stay Outside of Ubud

5 Reasons Why You Should Not Visit InterContinental Bali Resort

Puri Dajuma: The Way Bali Use To Be

5 Reasons Kids Choose Holiday Inn Bali Benoa

Blai accommodation

Attractions

101 Things To Do In Bali With Kids

81 Best Things to Do in Bali with Teens

Bali Safari Park Review: Honest Family Guide, Tickets, Animals, and Tips

Bali Safari Park Revisited & A Second Honest Look at What’s Changed, What Hasn’t, and What Families Should Know

Tanah Lot Bali with Kids: A Fun Family Adventure You Can’t Miss

Lemukih Falls: A Guide To Bali’s Secret Natural Water Slide

15 Things That Make Sense At Asia’s #1 Water Park: Waterbom Bali

Best Tips For Waterbom Balis Newest Slides

Visit Finns Recreation Club (Canggu Club Bali) With Kids

Looking For A Popular Family Resort in Kuta? Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort

5 Ways To Keep Kids Fit On Vacation

23 Things To Do In Ubud, Bali

Sukhavati Ayurvedic Retreat Bali – More Than A Spa

Travelocity: 20 Things You Must Do In Bali

Bali safari

Food

Bali Food Guide: 17 Must-Try Dishes & What to Eat in Bali

22 Places To Eat In Ubud, Bali

Bali Tips

How I Don’t Get Sick in Bali: 34 Trips Without Bali Belly

I Got Dengue Fever in Bali: The Symptoms I Mistook for Yoga Pain

Where It All Began 2012: Arrival to Bali

Day Trips

3 Reasons To Visit Nusa Penida With A Local

Your Ultimate Guide to Glamping in Bali. Why Arna Glamping Ceningan Should Be On Your List

A Quick Guide To Lombok (From Bali)

The idea is simple.

Use this itinerary as your framework, then dip into my other Bali guides to customise it around you.

Bali Itinerary: Bali Guide

Explore With Erin Wrap Up

After 36 trips to Bali, my biggest piece of advice is simple.

Don’t overcomplicate it.

For seven days, choose Ubud and Legian.

Spend three nights surrounded by jungle, culture and adventure, then four nights enjoying the beaches, shopping, food and fun of southern Bali.

If you have 10 days, add Nusa Dua.

If you have 14 days, add Sanur and Nusa Penida.

And if you have even longer?

Well…

Bali isn’t going anywhere.

You might as well stay a little longer.

Bali itinerary guide

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