An Epic Bali Itinerary: Best Places To Visit In Bali [From A Local]

Bali. Just the name alone sparks images of lush rice terraces, dramatic cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and some of the best beaches in the world. Whether you’re here for the culture, nightlife, or just chasing sunsets with a coconut in hand, you will have a memories for a lifetime. I am blessed to call Bali my home. And after exploring every corner of Bali over the years, I’ve put together this Bali bucket list – a fabulous Bali itinerary for 7 to 10 days.

This 7 day Bali itinerary lists my absolute favourite places to visit – from iconic hotspots to hidden gems you won’t want to miss. This itinerary to explore Bali in 7 days is best suited for the active lot who want to explore this famous island, and includes areas beyond the sought-after destinations of Ubud and Uluwatu.

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Bali 7 Day Itinerary Overview

Uluwatu (1 night) – Sidemen (2 nights) – Ubud (2 nights) – Munduk (1 night) – Canggu ( 1 night)

Day 1 of Bali Itinerary: Start with Uluwatu

This southernmost part of the island is famous for its jaw-dropping cliffs, stunning beaches, and world-class surf breaks.

Start with Suluban Beach, a hidden gem tucked at the base of a dramatic cliff. Not only is it one of the most iconic surf spots in Bali, but it’s also the perfect place to watch pro-surfers carve through massive waves from the clifftop above. To participate, you can book a 2-hr surf lesson in Uluwatu.

Another must-visit is Uluwatu Temple, famous for nightly Kecak dance shows. And mischievous monkeys that like to steal tourists’ phones or sunglasses and only returning them in exchange for bananas. You can enjoy a unique cultural experience with a Kecak fire and dance performance on the grounds of Uluwatu Temple.

If you’re a culture enthusiast, also make your way to the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park, home to the tallest statue on the island. It’s taller than the Statue of Liberty! And a place of various art exhibitions and cultural performances. 

If you want to extend your Bali itinerary to 10 days, you can easily stay in Uluwatu for a few days.

Day 2: Go off-beat to Sidemen & Penglipuran Village

Sidemen

Next up is my favourite region in Bali – Sidemen. Located in the island’s southeast, its highlight is the endless stretch of vibrant rice paddies that go on for kilometres. Sidemen is what Ubud was 20 years ago, making it the perfect place to experience the authentic, rural side of Bali. If you’re craving peace, nature, and a slower pace, add Sidemen to your Bali itinerary.

Forget about high-rise hotels and generic tourist resorts, Sidemen offers eco-friendly accommodation built sympathetically to the surrounding nature. It’s home to some of Bali’s most beautiful bamboo houses, offering a unique and immersive experience. An excellent option is the Camaya Bali, where you can wake up to breathtaking views and enjoy luxury in the heart of nature.

Penglipuran Village

On the list of best places to visit in Bali is the traditional Penglipuran Village. The village is located in the highlands of Bangli (27 km north of Ubud). It’s famous for its well-preserved architecture and strong commitment to local traditions. 

What makes Penglipuran unique is its uniform Balinese-style houses, each with beautifully carved gates and neatly arranged courtyards. As you stroll through the village, you’ll notice that there are no cars or motorbikes. You may even get invited to a Balinese home by one of the friendly locals to learn about Balinese customs, daily life, and even traditional crafts. 

Day 3: Adventure awaits at Lahangan Sweet or Amed

Lahangan Sweet

If you’re looking for one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in Bali, Lahangan Sweet should be on your list. Located in the Karangasem region, it offers jaw-dropping panoramic views of Mount Agung, Bali’s highest and most sacred volcano. On a clear day, you can even see the coastline and neighbouring islands in the distance.

What makes Lahangan Sweet extra special is its famous wooden platforms built on tree trunks, where you can sit or stand with the dramatic backdrop of Mount Agung. It’s the perfect spot for photographers.

Getting here requires a bit of an adventure! The road is steep and bumpy, so hiring a local driver or taking a motorbike with good suspension is highly recommended. A day tour to East Bali region also can be considered. But trust me, the effort is totally worth it! The best time to visit is early in the morning or just before sunset, when the golden light makes the landscape even more magical.

Alternative for Day 3 in Bali: Amed & Virgin Beach

For a quieter, more laid-back side of Bali, head to Amed. This peaceful fishing village is located on the island’s northeastern coast. Amed is famous for its black sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, world-class diving and snorkelling spots.

With vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, Amed is one of the best places in Bali to explore the island’s marine world. The most famous snorkelling and diving site is the USS Liberty Shipwreck in nearby Tulamben. This huge sunken ship is covered in coral and teeming with thousands of fish species.

Located on the east coast of Bali, near Candidasa, Virgin Beach boasts soft white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and peaceful vibes that feel far removed from the island’s more touristy areas.

Unlike Bali’s typical black volcanic sand beaches, Virgin Beach boasts powdery white sand and calm waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkelling. You can rent a pair of sunbeds and an umbrella from one of the family-run beach restaurants and spend an entire afternoon here enjoying the tranquility and nature. 

Day 4 in Bali: Explore the may attractions of Ubud

A must-visit destination for any Bali itinerary is Ubud, the island’s cultural heart. Nestled in central Bali, Ubud is the perfect place to dive into traditional art, spirituality, and local craftsmanship.

Wander through local art shops, where you can watch artisans create intricate paintings, wood carvings, and textiles right before your eyes. If you’re looking to bring home a piece of Bali, you can buy directly from the artists. Or choose a more budget-friendly option – the Ubud Art Market, filled with handcrafted souvenirs, jewellery, and unique Balinese crafts.

Ubud is also a spiritual hub, with stunning Hindu temples scattered across the town. Be sure to visit Saraswati Temple, known for its lotus-filled pond, and Pura Dalem Ubud, where you can experience a very interesting Kecak fire dance performance at night. Other attractions in Ubud include:

Ubud Monkey Forest

One of Ubud’s most famous attractions, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, is a must-visit for anyone who loves animals (or just wants to see some mischievous monkeys up close!). This lush forest is home to over 1,200 long-tailed macaques, who roam freely among centuries-old temples, moss-covered statues, and towering banyan trees.

The monkeys are used to visitors and won’t hesitate to jump on your shoulder, especially if they suspect you have food. But be warned – these little troublemakers are known for snatching sunglasses, hats, and even phones! To avoid becoming a target, keep all loose belongings tucked away and don’t carry any snacks. Beyond the playful primates, the Monkey Forest is also a sacred site for the local Balinese people. 

Pura Tirta Empul

One of the most spiritually significant temples in Bali, Pura Tirta Empul, is famous for its sacred purification pools, where Balinese Hindus come to take part in a traditional cleansing ritual. Located a short drive from Ubud, this temple exudes a peaceful, mystical atmosphere.

At the heart of the temple complex are two large pools fed by natural spring water, where worshippers line up to bathe under a series of stone fountains. The purification ritual, known as “melukat,” is believed to cleanse the body and soul of negative energy. As a visitor, you are welcome to take part but it’s important to be respectful. A modest attire (a sarong and sash) is required.

Goa Gajah

Another incredibly special destination on the list of must-see places in Bali is Goa Gajah Temple or the Elephant Cave, located just outside of Ubud. 

The temple’s most striking feature is its carved stone entrance, which resembles a scary face with its mouth wide open. It is believed to represent a demonic figure guarding the cave. Inside the small, dimly lit cave, you’ll find a shrine dedicated to Ganesha (the elephant-headed Hindu deity) and several small meditation alcoves. Beyond the cave, the site opens up into a lush valley with ancient bathing pools, stone statues, and trickling fountains. 

Day 5 of Bali Itinerary: Hiking at Mt. Batur

If you’re an adventurer at heart, hiking Mount Batur should be high on your Bali bucket list. This dormant volcano, located in northeastern Bali, is one of the island’s most popular trekking destinations. And for good reason – the sunrise views from the summit are absolutely breathtaking.

The hike is best done in the early hours of the morning, with most tours starting around 2–3 am to reach the top in time for sunrise. After a moderate 2-hour climb, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Batur, and Mount Agung. Perhaps even Lombok’s Mount Rinjani on a clear day! Watching the sun rise above the clouds from this vantage point is one of my favourite Bali experiences.

The best way to visit is by joining an organised tour, which typically includes transport from popular areas like Ubud, Seminyak, or Uluwatu, a local guide, and sometimes even a post-hike visit to a hot spring to relax your muscles.

Day 6: Tegalalang & Ulun Danu Beretan Temple

Tegalalang Rice Fields

One of the most iconic spots in Bali, the Tegalalang Rice Fields is located just 20 minutes north of Ubud. This iis a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the island’s famous lush paddies. You can take a tour to explore the Tegallalang rice terrace, Ubud monkey forest, and Batuan Temple.

If you’re up for an adventure, you can follow the trails through the paddies, crossing small bamboo bridges and interacting with friendly local farmers. Just be prepared for some uphill walking, and bring comfortable shoes.

For the best experience, visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds. If you’re looking for that perfect Instagram shot, there are several famous Bali swings and lookout points where you can capture the landscape from above. After the sightseeing, head to one of the cosy cafés overlooking the fields for an ice-cold coconut. 

Ulun Danu Beretan Temple

Located in the north of the island, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is one of the most important pilgrim sites for the Hindu population in Bali. The temple is situated on the shores of Lake Beratan in the cool highlands of Munduk. The temple appears to drift on the water when the lake level is high, creating a magical scene. You can consider this full-day tour to explore the temple and other attractions inn the area.

Built in the 17th century, the temple is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the Balinese goddess of water, lakes, and rivers. It’s an important spiritual site for the local people, as the lake serves as a vital water source for Bali’s rice fields. The temple complex features traditional Balinese architecture, tiered shrines, and beautifully landscaped gardens. I recommend renting a boat to see the temple from a different angle. 

Day 7: Jatiluwih Rice Fields & Tanah Lot Temple

Jatiluwih Rice Fields

If you’re looking for Bali’s most breathtaking rice fields without the crowds of Tegalalang, head to the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. This is located in the Tabanan region, about 1.5 hours from Ubud and a similar distance from Canggu. This UNESCO-listed site spans over 600 hectares of lush green rice paddies, offering some of the most expansive and untouched landscapes on the island.

The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon when the soft light is perfect for photography. There are several hiking trails you can follow, or you can simply enjoy the view without hiking from one of the cafés, with panoramic views over the terraces where you can enjoy a fresh coconut or Balinese coffee.

Tanah Lot Temple

One of Bali’s most iconic landmarks to put on your Bali itinerary is Tanah Lot. It is a breathtaking sea temple perched on a rocky outcrop a few meters away from the shore just west of Canggu. It’s one of the most photographed spots on the island – and for good reason.

I highly recommend visiting in the evening. The temple looks especially magical at sunset, when the sky turns shades of orange and pink, creating a picture-perfect scene. While the temple itself is not accessible to visitors, you can admire its beauty from the shore. During low tide, you can walk across the exposed seabed to get a closer look. Along the way, you might even receive a traditional blessing from the local priests.

The area around Tanah Lot is lively, with markets selling souvenirs, local snacks, and small warungs where you can grab a fresh coconut or enjoy some traditional Balinese food.

Summary: Bali Itinerary

Bali can be a lazy beach holiday at a high-end resort, like the kind, we did at W Bali Seminyak resort a few years ago. It can also be adventurous and active, exploring not just Ubud and Uluwatu, but also the north and southeast region of this famous island. I hope you found the above best places to visit in Bali inspiring. It can help you craft a perfect Bali itinerary for 7 to 10 days and that you get to book your trip soon!

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