20 Things to do in Bali
20 Things to Do in Bali: The Ultimate Travel Guide
Bali is one of those rare destinations that lives up to every expectation. Known as the “Island of the Gods”, this Indonesian paradise offers an extraordinary blend of stunning landscapes, ancient temples, vibrant culture and world-class hospitality. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment, thrilling adventures or simply a place to relax and recharge, Bali has it all.
In this guide, we’ve compiled the 20 best things to do in Bali to help you make the most of your visit to this magical island.
1. Watch the Sunrise at Mount Batur
Mount Batur is an active volcano standing at 1,717 meters and one of Bali’s most iconic trekking destinations. The hike begins at 2:00 AM and takes approximately 2 hours, rewarding you with one of the most breathtaking sunrises you’ll ever witness. The view of the crater lake and surrounding mountains at dawn is simply unforgettable.
📍 Location: Kintamani, Bali Cost: $35 – $50 with a guide Best time: Year-round, avoid rainy season (Nov-Mar)
2. Visit Tanah Lot Temple
Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop in the middle of the sea, Tanah Lot is Bali’s most photographed temple. Visit at sunset for a truly magical experience as the temple silhouette glows against the golden sky. This 16th-century Hindu shrine is one of Bali’s seven sea temples and holds deep spiritual significance.
📍 Location: Tabanan, Bali Cost: $3 entrance fee Best time: Sunset (5:30 PM – 7:00 PM)
3. Explore the Tegalalang Rice Terraces
The Tegalalang Rice Terraces near Ubud are among the most beautiful in the world. These UNESCO-listed terraces are a stunning example of Bali’s traditional cooperative irrigation system called subak. Walk through the terraces, swing above the valley on one of the famous Bali swings and capture incredible photos.
📍 Location: Ubud, Bali Cost: Free entry, activities from $15 Best time: Early morning to avoid crowds
4. Snorkel or Dive in Amed
Bali’s underwater world is spectacular and Amed on the northeast coast is one of the best spots to explore it. The USS Liberty shipwreck in nearby Tulamben is a world-famous dive site teeming with marine life. Even beginners can enjoy snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters surrounded by colorful coral reefs.
📍 Location: Amed & Tulamben, East Bali Cost: Snorkeling from $15, Diving from $45 Best time: April to October
5. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud
The Ubud Monkey Forest is a natural sanctuary home to over 700 Balinese long-tailed macaques. Walk through ancient temple ruins surrounded by towering trees while playful monkeys swing overhead. It’s a unique and memorable experience, though keep your belongings secure!
📍 Location: Ubud, Bali Cost: $5 entrance fee Best time: Early morning
6. Surf in Kuta or Canggu
Bali is a world-class surfing destination and Kuta Beach is the perfect place for beginners to catch their first wave. More experienced surfers head to Canggu, Uluwatu or Padang Padang for bigger, more challenging waves. Surf schools are everywhere and lessons are very affordable.
📍 Location: Kuta, Canggu, Uluwatu Cost: Surf lessons from $20 Best time: May to September (dry season)
7. Watch a Traditional Kecak Dance
The Kecak Fire Dance is one of Bali’s most spectacular cultural performances. Performed by dozens of men chanting in rhythmic unison, this dramatic dance tells stories from the Hindu epic Ramayana. The most atmospheric performances take place at Uluwatu Temple at sunset with the Indian Ocean as a backdrop.
📍 Location: Uluwatu Temple, South Bali Cost: $10 – $15 Best time: Sunset performances at 6:00 PM
8. Take a Yoga Class in Ubud
Ubud is Bali’s spiritual heart and the world capital of wellness travel. The town is packed with world-class yoga studios, meditation centers and wellness retreats. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced yogi, practicing yoga surrounded by jungle and rice fields is a transformative experience.
📍 Location: Ubud, Bali Cost: From $10 per class Best time: Year-round
9. Cliff Jump at Blue Lagoon or Nusa Penida
For thrill-seekers, Bali’s surrounding islands offer incredible cliff jumping opportunities. Nusa Penida is home to the famous Kelingking Beach — one of the most dramatic clifftop viewpoints in Southeast Asia. The island also features Crystal Bay, Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong for snorkeling and swimming.
📍 Location: Nusa Penida Island Cost: Fast boat from $25 return Best time: April to October
10. Take a Balinese Cooking Class
Balinese cuisine is incredibly flavorful and learning to cook it is one of the most rewarding experiences on the island. Most cooking classes start with a visit to a local market to select fresh ingredients before returning to cook traditional dishes like nasi goreng, satay and black rice pudding.
📍 Location: Ubud & Seminyak Cost: $35 – $60 per person Best time: Morning classes
11. Enjoy a Traditional Balinese Massage
Bali is famous for its incredibly affordable and high-quality traditional massages. A one-hour Balinese massage using aromatic oils and ancient techniques costs as little as $8 to $15. Treat yourself to a full spa day at one of Ubud’s luxury wellness centers for the ultimate relaxation experience.
📍 Location: Island-wide Cost: From $8 per hour Best time: Year-round
12. Visit Tirta Empul Holy Spring Temple
Tirta Empul is one of Bali’s most sacred temples, built around a natural spring believed to have magical healing powers. Visitors can participate in a traditional purification ritual, bathing in the holy spring water as Balinese Hindus have done for over a thousand years. It’s a deeply moving and spiritual experience.
📍 Location: Tampaksiring, Bali Cost: $3 entrance fee Best time: Early morning
13. Shop at Seminyak’s Boutiques
Seminyak is Bali’s most stylish neighborhood, packed with designer boutiques, art galleries and concept stores. Browse unique Balinese textiles, hand-crafted jewelry, contemporary fashion and beautiful homeware. It’s the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take home.
📍 Location: Seminyak, South Bali Cost: Free to browse Best time: Late afternoon
14. Try White Water Rafting on the Ayung River
For an adrenaline rush surrounded by stunning jungle scenery, white water rafting on the Ayung River is an absolute must. The 9-kilometer route passes through dense jungle, ancient carvings and dramatic gorges. Suitable for beginners and families, it’s one of Bali’s most popular outdoor activities.
📍 Location: Ubud, Bali Cost: $35 – $55 per person Best time: Year-round
15. Visit the Handara Gate
The Handara Gate is one of Bali’s most iconic Instagram spots. This traditional Balinese split gate set against a backdrop of misty mountains and lush greenery is one of the most photographed locations on the island. Arrive early to avoid the crowds and capture the perfect shot.
📍 Location: Bedugul, North Bali Cost: $2 photo fee Best time: Early morning for mist
16. Explore Ubud’s Art Market
Ubud Art Market (Pasar Seni) is a treasure trove of Balinese arts and crafts. Browse hundreds of stalls selling handmade paintings, wooden carvings, batik fabrics, silver jewelry and woven baskets. Bargaining is expected and part of the fun — you can find beautiful souvenirs for just a few dollars.
📍 Location: Central Ubud, Bali Cost: Free entry Best time: Morning
17. Take a Day Trip to Nusa Lembongan
Just 30 minutes by fast boat from Sanur, Nusa Lembongan is a tiny island paradise with crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. Rent a scooter and explore the island, visit Devil’s Tear for dramatic wave action and snorkel with manta rays at Manta Point.
📍 Location: Off Southeast Bali Cost: Fast boat from $20 return Best time: April to October
18. Visit Besakih — Bali’s Mother Temple
Pura Besakih is the largest and holiest Hindu temple complex in Bali, dramatically situated on the slopes of Mount Agung at 1,000 meters above sea level. With over 80 temples spread across the mountainside, it’s an awe-inspiring sight and a deeply sacred place for Balinese Hindus.
📍 Location: Karangasem, East Bali Cost: $5 entrance fee Best time: Morning, avoid rainy season
19. Watch Sunset at Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple sits on a dramatic cliff edge 70 meters above the crashing Indian Ocean waves. This is widely considered the best sunset viewpoint in all of Bali. Combine your visit with the spectacular Kecak Fire Dance performance for an unforgettable evening.
📍 Location: Uluwatu, South Bali Cost: $3 entrance fee Best time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
20. Relax on Seminyak or Nusa Dua Beach
After all the adventures, sometimes the best thing to do in Bali is simply relax on a beautiful beach. Seminyak Beach offers a lively atmosphere with beach clubs and stunning sunsets, while Nusa Dua is perfect for families with calm, crystal-clear waters and luxury resorts.
📍 Location: Seminyak & Nusa Dua, South Bali Cost: Free Best time: May to September
Bali Travel Tips
- Best time to visit: April to October (dry season)
- Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) — always carry cash
- Transport: Rent a scooter ($5/day) or use Grab app
- Dress code: Cover shoulders and knees at temples
- Visa: 30-day visa on arrival for most nationalities
- Budget: $40 – $80/day for comfortable travel
Bali Travel Budget
| Expense | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
| Accommodation | $15/night | $60/night | $200/night |
| Food | $10/day | $30/day | $80/day |
| Transport | $5/day | $20/day | $50/day |
| Activities | $15/day | $50/day | $150/day |
| Daily Total | $45/day | $160/day | $480/day |
Final Thoughts
Bali is truly one of the world’s most magical destinations. From ancient temples and lush rice terraces to world-class surf breaks and spectacular sunsets, the Island of the Gods delivers experiences that stay with you forever.
Ready to explore Bali? Find the best flight and hotel deals with GetTripDeals and start planning your Balinese adventure today!
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| Element | Detail |
| Catégorie | Destinations → Asia |
| Tags | Bali, Indonesia, Asia, Travel Tips, Budget Travel |
| Slug | 20-things-to-do-in-bali |
| Image à la une | Photo des rizières de Tegalalang ou Tanah Lot |
| Meta description | “Discover the 20 best things to do in Bali. From Mount Batur sunrise to Uluwatu sunset — the ultimate Bali travel guide with tips, costs and deals.” |
