10 Things to Do in Bali: What to See, Do, Eat & Enjoy (2023)

Looking for the best things to do in Bali? Here are tips on how to have the best holiday on the beautiful island of Bali!

I love Bali and have experienced all the incredible things it has to offer. From exploring ancient temples to experiencing local culture and cuisine, there is something for everyone in this beautiful island paradise.

And if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, there are plenty of adventure activities in Bali available as well!

There is something for everyone!

Surfers have long been coming to Bali for its incredible surf breaks, shoppers and foodies love Seminyak, couples can enjoy a romantic 5-star honeymoon, families have a range of options for a relaxing family holiday, and solo travelers can enjoy a yoga retreat.

In this post, I’m sharing with you the must-see attractions and activities that will make your trip to Bali truly unforgettable. Plus, I’ll give you some insider tips on how to make your visit even more enjoyable!

If you’re planning a Bali trip, read on for my top picks of the best things to do in Bali!

Pre-travel guide of Bali

How many days are enough in Bali?

Two weeks in Bali is a good amount of time to explore the island and get to experience its unique culture, beautiful landscapes, amazing marine life, delicious local cuisine, and lively nightlife. But there is certainly room for a longer visit!

You can check my 2-week Bali itinerary to make the most of your vacation to the Island of the Gods and experience all that Bali has to offer.

Best time to visit Bali

The weather in Bali is generally warm and tropical with the seasons split into the dry and wet seasons.

The dry season is from May to October with less rain than in the wet season from November to April.

The wet season often means bursts of heavy rain but these clear quickly so can still be a good time to visit. May, June and September are our favourite months to visit Bali due to great weather and better prices for accommodation.

How to get to Bali

The best way to travel to Bali is by plane. Direct Bali flights can be found from Europe, Asia and Australia.

Here you have the best plane tickets to Bali:

• Plane tickets from Italy (from 410 euros)
• Plane tickets from the US (from 430 euros)
• Plane tickets from UK (from 470 euros)
• Plane tickets from Germany (from 478 euros)
• Plane tickets from Spain (from 523 euros)
• Plane tickets from France (from 600 euros)

How to get around Bali

From the airport

Many hotels and villas will offer airport transfers as part of their accommodation packages and is a great option for first time travellers.

Taxis are readily available at the airport and have set prices to different parts of Bali but be aware that at peak times these prices may be more.

After clearing customs, you can exchange money which is a great idea to pay for your transport. You walk through duty free and the taxi counter is next to the information desk.

You state your destination, they will give you a quote and a ticket with your taxi number and price that you need to pay the taxi driver direct. Your taxi driver will be at the counter and direct you to his taxi.

Organising private drivers is also an option and can often work out cheaper as the taxis.

Around Bali

Bluebird Taxis

One of the best ways to travel short distances around Bali is Bluebird Taxis. They are metered and are easy to find in the tourist areas of Bali. They can drop off at the airport but not pick up.

Private Drivers

Having your own driver with a van is great for day trips in Bali. They are often very knowledgeable of the different areas and for a set price will show you around the island.

Be sure to get recommendations as some drivers, especially the ones trying to get your business on the streets, will take you to places that they receive a commission from.

If you aren’t wanting to visit silver shops or other tourist places, be sure to make this clear from the start.

Uber

It is available in some areas of Bali but is not particularly common. It is banned in certain areas like Canggu and Batu Belig.

Yacht charter

Do you know that Indonesia is one of the most exotic yacht charter destinations in the world?

Goolets has created a list of highly recommended yachts available for charter in Indonesia, and you can choose from luxurious explorer yachts, mega yachts, and classic yachts.

The best way to explore Bali and Indonesian islands!

Important things to pack

• Beachwear and snorkel
• Sun lotion
• Passport (with at least 6 months validity from your departure date)
• Camera

Where to stay in Bali

Looking for the bets places to stay in Bali?

The south of Bali has a range of different accommodation options to suit all travellers.

Seminyak/Canggu is known for food and shopping, Kuta/Legian for market shops, western style malls and waterparks like Waterbom, Jimbaran/Uluwatu for 5-star resorts and stunning sunsets, Nusa Dua for huge luxury and family friendly resorts and Sanur for its laid-back vibe and beautiful sunrises.

In the centre of Bali, you will find the cultural hotspot of Ubud with its art, temples and stunning landscapes. East and North Bali is best for a quiet relaxing getaway.

Recommend hotels in Bali

• Padma Resort Legian
• Alila Seminayk
• Ayana Resort
• The Ritz-Carlton Nusa Dua
• The Fairmont Resort Sanur
• Komaneka Resorts Ubud

Want to treat yourself? Here you have the best luxury hotels in Bali.

Cool Things to do in Bali

1. Visit the rice terraces

For a picture-perfect Instagram photo, you must visit Tegallalang, a 7km stretch of road north of Ubud. It does get quite busy but the views are worth it and it’s one of the coolest things to do in Bali.

For a quieter, more laid-back location to view beautiful rice terraces, visit Jataluwih in the Tabanan region of Bali. It is approximately a 1.5 hr drive from Seminyak but worth the drive. Between February and April, the rice will be lovely and green with harvesting usually occurring in June.

2. Visit a temple

There are many temples all over the island of Gods and visiting a temple is one of the best things to do in Bali. In many villas and hotels, you will witness the daily offerings and is a great insight into the Bali culture.

Tanah Lot Temple overlooking the Indian Ocean is a popular tourist spot and if you are after a quieter temple to explore check out Besakih Temple which is Bali’s largest and holiest Hindu temple. It’s really one of the most unique things to do in Bali!

3. Indulge in a massage

Bali is known for cheap massages on the beach and it’s a must thing to do if you travel to the Island of the Gods.

These are easy to find along the tourist beach areas of Kuta, Legian and Seminyak.

If a more upmarket massage is more your thing, there are amazing day spas including Karma Kandara Spa with its amazing couples massage room set on a clifftop overlooking the ocean. Perfect for a healthy travel holiday and one of the best things to do in Bali for couples!

4. Try out a cooking school in Bali

After indulging in the delicious food of Bali you may want to try out cooking it yourself. There are excellent cooking schools that often include a tour of the local markets. Besides, Bali is one of the most vegan friendly destinations in the world!

Around Ubud is where you will find most of the schools where you can learn the process of cooking Indonesian Food.

And if you’re a foodie, check out these cool cafes in Canggu!

5. Climb a mountain, one of the fun things to do in Bali

There are lots of adventure activities in Bali as well a a range of mountains that are made for climbing. These aren’t just any mountains but volcanoes with stunning craters that will have you taking many photos.

The easiest volcano to climb is Mt Batur which can take from 1.5-2.5 hrs to climb. A sunrise trek with a guide is the most popular with a 2am rise for a 4am climb. It is rocky terrain but most people with a slight degree of fitness can accomplish this climb.

Mt Agung is a different story, it is kept for more serious climbers who enjoy a challenge. It’s one of the best things to do in Bali with kids!

6. Watch the sunset from the Rock Bar

As you descend the clifftops of Ayana Resort to the waiting Rock Bar below, you can tell you are in for a treat. Stunning sunset views with a fabulous cocktail list make it a must of things to do in Bali.

Get there early to beat the crowds or better yet, stay at the Ayana Resort to score the best seats.

7. Diving and Snorkeling in Bali

Bali has fantastic diving for all abilities and the areas of East Bali Tulamben and Amed are well known for great dive spots as well as snorkelling. It’s one of those must things to do in Bali.

In north west Bali, you will find stunning coral shows at Pemuteran and Menjangan Island. And if you really like marine life, don’t miss the fantastic snorkeling in Nusa Penida. 

8. Seminyak fine dining

The Seminyak food scene is one to rival the best restaurants around the world.

Combine stunning décor with food, Bali restaurants like Mamasan and Movida will leave you wanting more. One of the best things to do in Bali on honeymoon!

9. Shopping in Bali

The best boutique shopping can be found in Seminyak. Top fashion designers call Bali home and homewares are plentiful too. Just make sure you have enough luggage allowance for the way home!

If you are looking for market style shops, head to the streets of Kuta and Legian where you will need your best haggling skills.

10. Best things to do in Bali at night

For fun with friend’s head to Seminyak for cocktails and dancing.

Motel Mexicola is a fun spot to dance the night away and then you can head to the Kuta nightclubs if you are looking to party all night long.

Visit a beach club in Bali

One of our favorite things to do in Bali is visit a beach club to watch another stunning sunset that Bali is well known for. Potato Head and Ku De Ta in Seminyak are worth a visit as is Finn’s beach club in Canggu. One of those romantic things to do in Bali.

Traveling solo to Bali? This Bali Solo Travel Guide will help you!

If you are planning a holiday to Bali, I hope this mini guide helps you. Enjoy your holiday in paradise!

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I’ve asked Kate from Rolling Along with Kids to spill her secrets on this stunning place in Indonesia. You will find in her blog all the things they love to do, where to eat and where to stay in Bali, specially for families with kids.