Bottom line first: Must-visit spots for first-timers in Ubud include Tirta Empul Temple, Monkey Forest, Ubud Palace, Ubud Market, and Tegalalang Rice Terraces. This article curates 20 attractions/activities, spanning natural landscapes, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures (rafting, ATV), perfect for a 2-3 day deep dive into Ubud, Bali’s cultural heart.
If you ask what’s the most popular destination in Bali for international and Indonesian travelers beyond the vibrant beaches, one answer is Ubud. I’m sure you’ve heard of Ubud’s tourist spots and seen various articles about tours and activities there. So, are you interested in vacationing in Ubud? If so, before planning your Ubud trip, I recommend reading this article thoroughly! Here we provide a travel guide and tips for Ubud.
The Charm of Ubud
Natural Beauty
Ubud is renowned for its natural beauty, nestled among rice paddies and forested areas, surrounded by river valleys. Here, you can enjoy lush green hillsides, terraced rice fields, waterfalls, and pristine river scenery.
Art and Culture
Beyond its natural beauty, Ubud is also famous for Balinese art and culture. Most local residents are artists, including painters, craftsmen, and dancers. Along Ubud’s streets, you’ll easily find galleries, wood carving, and stone carving shops. Additionally, Ubud boasts many museums, art galleries, and souvenir shops selling local handicrafts.
Balinese dance performances take place daily in various parts of Ubud. Moreover, Ubud is home to numerous Balinese Hindu temples and a beautiful palace.
A Wide Range of Accommodations
Ubud’s tourism is supported by a comprehensive range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Whatever your budget, you’ll find the perfect place to stay in Ubud. Check out the Ubud accommodation recommendations below:
- 【Bali Ubud Accommodation】28 Unique Stays in Ubud for a Magical Journey Amid Bali’s Mountain Scenery!
- Explore 9 Breathtaking Treehouse/Bamboo Villa Stays in Ubud
- 【Ubud Accommodation Guide】Private Pool Villa Paradise: 20 Stunning Bali Villas in Ubud
- Ubud Yoga Retreats: 10 Dreamy Options Combining Yoga Classes and Relaxation
Ubud’s Culinary Scene
No tourist area is complete without diverse dining options! Today, Ubud has become another culinary hotspot in Bali, following Seminyak. In Ubud, you’ll easily find restaurants serving Indonesian cuisine, Balinese specialties, and Western dishes to suit your taste. Additionally, Ubud is renowned for its cafes, coffee shops, restaurants, and bars, making it a popular gathering spot.
Refer to the introductions in the Ubud Guide Map
Distance and Travel Time
Distance from Bali Airport to Ubud
Bali has only one international airport, Ngurah Rai International Airport. If you’re heading from Ngurah Rai Airport to central Ubud, it’s about 40 kilometers away, and the drive takes roughly one and a half to two and a half hours.
If you’re staying in Seminyak, the distance to central Ubud is about 32 kilometers, with an average travel time of 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.
However, with worsening traffic congestion, it’s wise to add a bit more buffer time to your estimated travel duration!
Best Ways to Get Around Ubud
Knowing the best ways to get around a tourist area is key to a great vacation—so what’s the best way to get around Ubud?
Transportation in Ubud is similar to other Bali tourist spots: there’s no proper public transit, so your only option is a private vehicle. That makes the best ways to get around Ubud either hiring a private driver for the day or renting a scooter.
Riding a Scooter – Ubud Transport Guide
Scooters are the most widely used mode of transport across Bali, including the Ubud area. Most locals choose to ride scooters to get around. If you’re interested in riding a scooter during your Ubud vacation, you’ll easily find scooter rental services.
Just search Google for “Bali scooter rental,” and you’ll find rental services near your accommodation. You can also ask the rental service to deliver the scooter to your hotel. Rental prices depend on the scooter model and rental duration—the longer you rent, the cheaper the daily rate. Fuel is not included! So be sure to fill up the tank before any long trips.
Additionally, riding a motorcycle requires an International Driving Permit. You can obtain one in your home country or in Bali. Please note that when riding a motorcycle in Bali, you must wear a helmet at all times and familiarize yourself with the right-hand traffic, which is opposite to Taiwan’s. If you’re unsure about the traffic conditions, it’s best to choose other modes of transportation.
For more on renting a motorcycle, check out: Bali Motorcycle Rental Guide! Should You Rent a Motorcycle or Hire a Car?
Private Car Hire – Ubud Transportation Guide
If you prefer to travel by car, you can choose one of the following two ways to get around central Ubud.
Private Car Hire (with Driver) Finding a self-drive rental car in Ubud can be challenging. Moreover, parking in central Ubud is very limited, with no-parking signs everywhere. If you want to avoid the hassle of finding parking, don’t want to drive yourself, and wish to explore places beyond Ubud, it’s recommended to rent a vehicle with a driver (private car hire).
- About private car hire: Bali Private Car Hire Guide - Costs, Booking Methods, and Advantages
Ubud Tour Packages Some travelers who prefer not to plan on their own choose to book Bali tour packages. These packages take care of everything—including a guide, transportation, itinerary planning, attraction tickets, and delicious meals—all in one go!
Want to compare prices for more attraction tickets? Check out the Bali Ticket Price List for 49 popular spots, all with booking links to Klook, Agoda, and Trip.com.
Here are a few highly-rated Ubud tour packages:
Ubud Tour Package Bundles
- Private Day Tour of Ubud’s Top Attractions
- Mount Batur 4WD Jeep Sunrise Tour (with Photographer)
- Ubud Highlights & Lempuyang Temple Heaven’s Gate Sunset Private Tour
- Ubud ATV Quad Bike & Rafting (with Lunch & Optional Activities)
- All-Inclusive Ubud Day Tour (with Balinese Costume & Photographer)
Top 20 Best Attractions and Activities in Ubud
If it’s your first time in Ubud, these 20 attractions and activities we’ve listed will guarantee an unforgettable vacation:
1. Monkey Forest Ubud
Monkey Forest Ubud
Monkey Forest is a must-visit spot in Ubud, nestled within a protected forest filled with towering trees and long-tailed macaques. The forest also houses a Balinese Hindu temple called Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal. However, the wild monkeys can be dangerous—just follow the park rules, such as staying calm, avoiding running, and not making eye contact with male monkeys, to stay safe. A recommended visit time is about 1.5 hours.
Book the tour:
- Monkey Forest Discounted Ticket
- Monkey Forest, Art Village, Traditional Market & Kecak Fire Dance Private Day Tour
2. Ayung River Rafting
Rafting is an exhilarating activity in Ubud.
The Ayung River in Ubud is one of Bali’s most famous rafting spots, with activities well-suited for families and casual adventurers. For a more challenging experience, consider rafting on the Telaga Waja River in Karangasem. Check out the Bali Rafting Guide (FAQ).
Book your rafting adventure:
3. Ubud Water Palace (Taman Saraswati Temple)
This temple is dedicated to Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom. It features a lotus pond in front and is adorned with beautiful Balinese carvings. Every evening, Balinese dance performances are held here.
4. Watch a Kecak Fire Dance Performance
Ubud is a great place to watch Balinese dance performances. The Kecak fire dance shows are held on Tuesdays and Sundays from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM, while performances at the Ubud Palace take place every Thursday. Tickets cost 100,000 Indonesian Rupiah per person. You can book discounted tickets in advance through Klook.
Performance Ticket Booking:
- Ubud Kecak & Fire Dance Show Tickets
- Ubud Palace Puri Agung Peliatan Kecak & Fire Dance Show Tickets
5. Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA)
The Agung Rai Museum of Art is built on rolling terrain and features a Balinese-style garden design with lotus ponds and orchids. It’s a place worth visiting at least once in Ubud, boasting an impressive collection of Balinese art. Highly recommended. While the entrance fee isn’t cheap, it’s worth stopping by. You might even get a chance to see artists at work. Open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, tickets cost 150,000 Indonesian Rupiah per person.
6. Tegallalang Rice Terraces
The Tegallalang Rice Terraces are among Ubud’s most famous rice paddies, offering stunning scenery perfect for taking beautiful photos. There are plenty of nearby cafes where you can enjoy a meal while soaking in the views.
Book a day trip:
- Tegalalang Tis Cafe & Mount Batur Jeep & Waterfall Tour
- Ubud Waterfalls & Elephant Cave & Holy Spring Temple & Tegalalang Rice Terraces & Sacred Monkey Forest Tour
7. Goa Gajah Temple (Elephant Cave)
Goa Gajah is an ancient temple in Bali—no elephants inside, despite the name! The carvings and cave interior are uniquely intricate, making it a must-visit for archaeology and history enthusiasts. It’s open from 08:00 to 17:00.
Book a day trip:
8. Tirta Empul Temple (Holy Spring Temple)
Tirta Empul is famous for its natural spring, which flows from within the temple grounds, creating crystal-clear, fresh water. Visitors must wear a sarong and sash to enter the temple—these can be rented at the entrance. For more details, check out the Complete Guide to Tirta Empul Temple: Bali’s Most Sacred Purification Water Temple Experience
Book a day trip:
9. Gunung Kawi Cliff Temple
Gunung Kawi Cliff Temple is an ancient temple built into a cliff, surrounded by beautiful scenery and the gentle sound of the Pakerisan River. It’s open from 07:00 to 18:00.
Book your tour:
10. Omma Dayclub
Omma Dayclub is famous for its stunning waterfall views. The waterfall drops about 30 meters, and guests can take in the breathtaking sight right from the club’s terrace or the pool built along the riverbank.
11. D’Tukad River Club
D’Tukad River Club is a day club perched atop Tegenungan Waterfall, blending treehouse concepts with awe-inspiring natural scenery. Here, you can enjoy incredible swings and a pool. With 360-degree waterfall views, D’Tukad lets you take in the majestic cascade and the grandeur of nature while you dine.
Book a day trip:
12. Wanna Jungle Pool & Bar
Wanna Jungle Pool & Bar is a newly opened day club in Ubud, famous for its unique three-tiered infinity pool. Here, you can swim in the cool water, soak up the tropical relaxation, and blend in with the lush forest and iconic infinity pool. It’s an absolute Instagram-worthy spot, perfect for filling your social media with Ubud’s distinctive vibe.
13. Visit Penglipuran Village
Penglipuran Village is one of the best-preserved traditional communities in Bali. Its charm lies in the well-maintained traditional architecture and unique way of life, with long streets and ancient houses that exude a strong Balinese atmosphere, making you feel like you’ve stepped back into an old Balinese community.
Klook special deals
- Bali Penglipuran Village & Kanto Lampo Waterfall Day Tour
- Penglipuran Village Day Tour (with Free Cooking Class)
- Bali: Penglipuran Village, Ubud, Nature & Temple Day Tour
14. Cretya Ubud
Cretya Ubud is a luxurious day club in the Ubud area, featuring a distinctive three-tiered pool that overlooks the lush Tegalalang rice terraces, offering stunning views.
Cretya Ubud is open daily from 8 AM to 9 PM. The adult entrance fee is 250,000 Indonesian Rupiah.
15. Ubud Royal Palace
Ubud Royal Palace is located on Ubud’s main road, near the Ubud Art Market and Ubud Water Palace. Check out the video above for a tour of downtown Ubud.
16. Ubud Art Market
Ubud Art Market is a great place to buy Balinese handicrafts, including woven bags, baskets, and other handmade items. Located near the Ubud Palace, it’s open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Read more: Complete Guide to the Top 5 Ubud Art Markets: Souvenirs and Cultural Treasures in Bali
17. Campuhan Hill (Ubud Skywalk)
Easily reachable on foot from Ubud Palace, the Campuhan Ridge Walk is a hidden gem near the city center, offering tranquility and stunning natural scenery. This ridge trail provides breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views, far from the hustle and bustle.
How to get to the Skywalk? How much time does it take? What’s the best time to visit? Check out Xiao Jie’s detailed guide
18. Ubud Swing
Ubud’s swings are a popular Instagram-worthy activity. While there are many places to swing in Bali, Ubud is the most famous.
Check out Swinging in Ubud: The 8 Most Beautiful Swing Photo Spots in Bali | Ubud Swing & Dress Rental Guide
19. Waterfall Hunting
Ubud is not only famous for its culture and art but also boasts breathtaking natural landscapes, with waterfalls being a must-visit. The three well-known waterfalls near Ubud are Tegenungan Waterfall, Kanto Lampo Waterfall, and Tukad Cepung Waterfall. Check out this guide to the three major waterfalls around Ubud
Waterfalls are ideal for exploring nature’s beauty and capturing Instagram-worthy shots. Escape the city bustle, stroll along paths through lush jungles, and feel like you’ve entered a mysterious realm. Standing before the waterfall, the splashing water and rushing currents let you feel nature’s power.
Book a day tour:
- Hidden Canyon & Tegenungan Waterfall Adventure Day Tour
- Tukad Cepung Waterfall Day Trip & Jungle Swing
- Penglipuran Village & Kanto Lampo Waterfall Day Trip
20. Ride an ATV
Want to explore Ubud’s natural beauty at a faster pace? Riding an ATV (all-terrain vehicle) is a thrilling and adventurous choice. ATV tours in Ubud typically take you through tropical rainforests, rivers, tunnels, and rugged mountain terrain, plunging you into an exciting adventure. This high-speed way of traversing nature lets you experience Ubud’s diverse landscapes and scenery in a short time—a favorite for adrenaline seekers. Check out Bali ATV Quad Bike Adventure: Feel the Thrill and Freedom of a Tropical Paradise (Tips + FAQ + Operator Recommendations)
Book your tour:
- ATV Adventure Through Bamboo Forest, Caves, and Waterfalls
- ATV Off-Road Tour (Photographer Add-On Available)
- ATV + White Water Rafting (Lunch Included)
The 20 attractions and activities introduced above make up Ubud’s rich and diverse travel experience. Whether you love natural landscapes, culture and arts, or adventure activities, Ubud has something for everyone.
Need map locations? Check out: Ubud Travel Map
I hope this list helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Ubud!
If you’re not a first-timer and want to dive deeper into Ubud, check out the “Complete Ubud Guide: 100 Ways to Get to Know Ubud” for a more in-depth exploration.
Further reading: Bali Travel Tips: 32 Must-Know Tips for First-Time Visitors to Bali
Further reading: Bali No-Mistakes Guide: 18 Common Errors and Tips
Further reading: A Day in Seminyak, Bali: The Perfect Itinerary from Sunrise to Sunset
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