Bali is a destination that truly has it all: nature, spirituality, adventure, relaxation, and incredible food.
Its natural beauty, smiling locals, and the intense scents of incense and flowers create a unique atmosphere across the island.
Whether you are looking for relaxation and connection with nature or adventure, surfing, and vibrant nightlife, Bali has something to offer.
It is a destination full of contrasts: peaceful temples and lively beach clubs, jungle waterfalls and stunning beach sunsets. Below you’ll find 13 things you absolutely must do in Bali to experience the island to the fullest.
Things to do in Bali
1. Explore Ubud
Ubud is considered the cultural and spiritual heart of Bali. Located in the jungle and surrounded by rice fields, temples, and rivers, it offers a calmer and more authentic side of the island.
During your visit, make sure to stop by Ubud Palace, located in the center of town and an important historical and cultural landmark. There you can admire traditional architecture and, if you’re lucky, witness a local ceremony.
For food, Cherry Pepper Ubud is a great choice, offering excellent cuisine, a lovely atmosphere, and very cheap prices. Ubud is also famous for its healthy cafés, vegan restaurants, and yoga spots.
2. Experience the vibe of Canggu
Canggu is one of the most popular areas in Bali, especially among young travelers, digital nomads, and surfers. It has a relaxed yet lively vibe, with countless tourist shops, cafés, beach bars, and concept stores.
Canggu’s beaches are ideal for surfing, whether you’re a beginner or more experienced. Along the coastline, you’ll find countless small local spots where locals offer surf lessons and hand you your board directly on the beach.
Watching the sunset in Canggu is an experience on its own, with people sitting on the sand and enjoying the view.
3. Visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Ulun Danu Beratan is one of the most impressive and photographed temples in Bali. Located on Lake Beratan, it appears to float on the water, creating a magical landscape—especially in the early morning when mist covers the lake.
It is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places you will visit in Bali. Entrance for adults costs IDR 75,000 (approximately $5).
4. Hike Mount Batur
Mount Batur is an active volcano and one of the most popular activities in Bali.
Many travelers choose to do a sunrise hike, starting early in the morning to watch the sun rise from the summit—an unforgettable experience.
For those who don’t want to hike, jeep tours to the top are also available, which is what we chose in order to see the sunrise. Unfortunately, it was raining when we went, but the scenery was still beautiful.
5. Discover Bali’s waterfalls
Bali is full of countless waterfalls hidden in the jungle.
Leke Leke Waterfall is stunning and very photogenic, Kanto Lampo Waterfall stands out for its unique shape, and Tegenungan Waterfall is easier to access and perfect for swimming.
Kanto Lampo was my favorite of the three waterfalls I visited. Huge and incredibly impressive, but here’s a reality check about this famous Instagram spot. Yes, it looks exactly like the photos you see online, but in reality, you can’t really enjoy swimming there—it has clearly become a photo-only location.
Every morning, long lines of tourists form, waiting for local photographers to take their pictures. After about two or three minutes of photos, you leave so the next people can step in.
6. Tegallalang Rice Terrace
The Tegallalang Rice Terraces are among the most iconic landscapes in Bali—and my personal favorite place.
The lush green rice fields create stunning layered views and offer incredible photo opportunities.
Locals have organized various activities in the area, such as zip lines and flying dress photoshoots. Of course, you can also simply walk around and explore the area at your own pace.
7. Relax at Cretya Ubud
Cretya Ubud is a luxury day club with pools overlooking the rice fields and excellent food. It’s perfect for relaxation, cocktails, and Instagram moments.
After spending a full day exploring Bali, visiting Cretya Ubud is the perfect way to end your day.
8. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
The Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud is a natural sanctuary home to over 1,200 monkeys. You can walk through the forest and visit the temples, but be careful with your personal belongings.
Entrance for adults costs IDR 100,000 (around €5) on weekdays and IDR 120,000 (around €6) on weekends.
9. Pura Puseh Desa Batuan
Pura Puseh Desa Batuan is a beautiful traditional temple with impressive carvings and a strong spiritual atmosphere. It’s well worth a stop to experience the authentic religious side of Bali. Entrance costs approximately €2.50.
10. Rafting on the Ayung River
Rafting on the Ayung River is perfect if you’re looking for a bit of adventure. The route passes through jungle, gorges, and waterfalls and is suitable even for beginners.
11. Melasti Beach
Bali is home to countless beautiful beaches, and Melasti Beach is one of the most impressive. With turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, it’s ideal for relaxation and photos.
Above the beach, you’ll find an impressive beach bar where you can relax, eat, and enjoy cocktails with a view.
12. Day trip to Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is a must-visit destination. The island is famous for Kelingking Beach, which from above looks like a dinosaur. I recommend visiting early in the morning before the crowds arrive.
Boat tours are also available for snorkeling, and if you’re lucky, you may see manta rays and various tropical fish.
Don’t miss Diamond Beach, one of the island’s most beautiful beaches, and swim in its turquoise waters.
13. ATV ride through the jungle
If you’re looking for something more extreme, one of the most fun activities in Bali is going on an ATV (quad bike) tour through the jungle.
The routes take you through jungle trails, mud, rivers, and villages, offering plenty of adrenaline and fun—even if you have no prior experience.
