Bali, Indonesia is a destination that fuses natural beauty, deep-rooted traditions, and a uniquely welcoming spirit. Its lush rice terraces, volcanic mountains, and vibrant coastal towns draw travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. Whether you're dreaming of sandy shores at sunrise or spiritual ceremonies at ancient temples, Bali has a way of captivating every visitor.
The island is dotted with remarkable attractions, from the majestic Uluwatu Temple perched above dramatic cliffs to the bustling art markets and ornate palaces of Ubud. Surfing enthusiasts flock to Kuta and Canggu for world-class waves, while divers and snorkelers find colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life around Menjangan Island or Nusa Penida. Iconic landmarks like Tanah Lot and the sacred Monkey Forest highlight Bali’s blend of spirituality and nature.
Cultural experiences abound, with vibrant festivals, shadow puppet shows, and traditional dance performances taking place across the island. Local life pulses around lively markets filled with fragrant spices, handicrafts, and offerings for daily rituals. Balinese cuisine tempts food lovers with savory satays, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits, while cafes in Seminyak and Canggu cater to global tastes.
Getting around Bali is easy with private drivers, scooters, and ride-hailing apps, but keep in mind that traffic can be heavy in popular spots. Accommodation ranges from beachfront resorts and boutique villas to budget-friendly homestays, making Bali accessible for all kinds of travelers. For a true taste of the island, don’t miss a sunrise hike up Mount Batur or a quiet afternoon at a local warung sampling nasi campur.
For the best weather and lighter crowds, visit during the dry season from April to October. High season (July-August, December) can mean higher prices and busier beaches. Try exploring early in the day, seek out less-traveled regions like Sidemen or Amed for a peaceful escape, and remember that modest attire is required at temples.
The island is dotted with remarkable attractions, from the majestic Uluwatu Temple perched above dramatic cliffs to the bustling art markets and ornate palaces of Ubud. Surfing enthusiasts flock to Kuta and Canggu for world-class waves, while divers and snorkelers find colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life around Menjangan Island or Nusa Penida. Iconic landmarks like Tanah Lot and the sacred Monkey Forest highlight Bali’s blend of spirituality and nature.
Cultural experiences abound, with vibrant festivals, shadow puppet shows, and traditional dance performances taking place across the island. Local life pulses around lively markets filled with fragrant spices, handicrafts, and offerings for daily rituals. Balinese cuisine tempts food lovers with savory satays, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits, while cafes in Seminyak and Canggu cater to global tastes.
Getting around Bali is easy with private drivers, scooters, and ride-hailing apps, but keep in mind that traffic can be heavy in popular spots. Accommodation ranges from beachfront resorts and boutique villas to budget-friendly homestays, making Bali accessible for all kinds of travelers. For a true taste of the island, don’t miss a sunrise hike up Mount Batur or a quiet afternoon at a local warung sampling nasi campur.
For the best weather and lighter crowds, visit during the dry season from April to October. High season (July-August, December) can mean higher prices and busier beaches. Try exploring early in the day, seek out less-traveled regions like Sidemen or Amed for a peaceful escape, and remember that modest attire is required at temples.
Expected Weekly Budget
$800–$1200 USD (per person, excluding flights)
Known For
Things to Do
- Surf the waves at Kuta or Canggu Beach
- Explore the rice terraces of Tegallalang near Ubud
- Watch a traditional Kecak dance at Uluwatu Temple
- Snorkel or dive around Nusa Penida
- Relax with a Balinese massage at a local spa
- Marvel at the sunset at Tanah Lot Temple
- Hike to the summit of Mount Batur for sunrise
- Sample Balinese cuisine at local markets and warungs
Notable Sites
- Uluwatu Temple
- Tanah Lot Temple
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces
- Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
- Pura Tirta Empul
- Mount Batur
- Nusa Penida
- Seminyak Beach
General Advice
Bali is a rewarding destination for all types of travelers. Plan a mix of sightseeing and downtime, allowing yourself plenty of time to relax on the beaches as well as explore cultural landmarks. Engage with local customs by attending temple festivals and trying traditional foods, and be sure to respect religious practices, especially in rural villages and sacred sites.
Security & Safety
Overall, Bali is considered safe for travelers, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded tourist areas. Use hotel safes, keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar places. When renting a scooter, always wear a helmet and drive cautiously; road conditions can be unpredictable, and traffic rules may differ from what you're used to.
Travel Tips
- Pack light, breathable clothing, but bring a sarong or scarf for temple visits.
- Cash is widely used, but ATMs are common in tourist areas.
- Negotiate prices in local markets, but do so with a smile.
- Drink only bottled or filtered water to avoid getting sick.
- Use sunscreen and insect repellent, especially if heading into nature.
- For longer journeys, consider hiring a local driver for comfort and local insights.
- Download ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek for city transport.
- Respect local customs, especially during religious holidays and ceremonies.
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Traveler Comments
Visited in March 2024
Our honeymoon in Bali felt magical. The views at Uluwatu Temple at sunset were unreal, and we even got to see the Kecak dance. Sometimes the crowds in Seminyak got overwhelming, but exploring quieter towns like Sidemen made up for it.
Traveled here in June 2024
Bali was everything I needed after a busy year. I spent most mornings surfing in Canggu and afternoons chilling at local cafes. The food was a highlight – try the nasi campur and fresh juice stalls!
Visited in October 2023
Loved touring the Tegallalang Rice Terraces and walking around Ubud’s markets. Temple dress codes were strict, so be sure to cover up your shoulders and legs. Balinese hospitality made the trip even more memorable.
Stayed in May 2024
Went diving off Nusa Penida and saw manta rays for the first time – incredible experience. Public transport isn’t the best, but organizing a private driver was easy. Some areas felt very touristy, but plenty of offbeat spots if you look.
Visited in December 2023
Family trip with kids and everyone had fun, especially at the Monkey Forest. The traffic was hectic around Denpasar. Local warungs had awesome food – way better (and cheaper!) than the hotel restaurants.
Traveled here in April 2024
Sunrise at Mount Batur was worth the early wake-up call. It was a tough hike, but the view made everything else fade away. Don’t forget warm clothes – it’s cold at the top!
Visited in January 2024
January was the rainy season but there were still plenty of sunny mornings. We fell in love with Balinese spa treatments – highly recommend booking at least one. Some beaches had a bit of litter, though.
Traveled here in July 2024
Stayed in Ubud and enjoyed the mix of yoga, traditional art, and great vegan food. Hired a scooter to explore the countryside, which was so much fun. I’d come back just for the peaceful rice terraces.
Visited in February 2024
Solo female traveler here – felt safe overall but stuck to busy areas at night. The markets have beautiful textiles and jewelry, just remember to negotiate. Wish I had more time for a day trip to Amed.
Traveled here in March 2024
Balinese ceremonies were fascinating to watch – stumbled upon a temple festival one morning. Used Grab for short trips, super convenient. My villa in Seminyak was stunning and surprisingly affordable.
Visited in September 2023
I traveled with my parents and we loved touring temples like Tanah Lot and Tirta Empul. The guides were friendly and explained a lot about local traditions. Avoided the party scene – it’s easy to stick to quieter places.
Stayed in May 2023
Bali was worth seeing, but I was surprised by how busy Kuta Beach was. Prices in touristy spots were high for Indonesia, so look for homestays or eat at smaller places. Still, the waterfalls and volcano views were fantastic.
Traveled here in November 2023
Snorkeling off Nusa Lembongan was a dream. The spiritual vibe in Ubud is hard to describe – I ended up taking a yoga class surrounded by jungle. Wish I’d brought more cash, as some small places didn’t accept cards.
Visited in August 2023
Historic temples, surf beaches, and delicious street food – Bali packs a lot in. Got caught in one of the holiday parades and it was loud but so full of energy. Watch out for aggressive monkeys near temples.
Traveled here in April 2024
Had some of the best massages of my life and discovered a new favorite fruit (salak!) at the Gianyar market. The locals were always eager to share tips and stories. Go early to busy sights before the day trippers arrive.
Visited in May 2024
Our group tried canyoning in the north and relaxed in Lovina afterward. It’s crazy how many sides Bali has. Even our bottled water was chilled with coconut ice on a hot day – small but memorable detail!
Stayed in October 2023
I was surprised by the variety in nightlife – from quiet beach bars to big clubs in Kuta. Met people from all over. It does take patience with the traffic – plan extra time to get anywhere.
Traveled here in February 2024
Hiking to hidden waterfalls and rice field paths was a highlight. I appreciated the respect locals have for nature and traditions. Scooters are fun but the roads can be hectic – drive carefully.
Visited in November 2023
Great place for a girls’ trip. Loved the beach clubs in Seminyak and browsing for home decor in Canggu. Bring mosquito spray – I got more bites than I expected!
Stayed in June 2024
Bali was unforgettable – from the flavors of street food to quiet temple visits. Every sunset felt special. Will never forget the hospitality everywhere we went.
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