10 Exciting Things To Do in Ubud, Bali

This post is all about the best things to do in Ubud, Bali.

Bali is a magical place. After spending 2 months there in 2018, I still don’t feel like it was enough time and can’t wait to go back! While I spent most of my time living in Canggu, I explored the whole island of Bali along with other islands in Indonesia. I loved my time in Ubud and I’m excited to share these amazing things to do in Ubud, Bali with you. My hope is that this guide will help you plan your epic Ubud adventures!

How to get to Ubud, Bali

Ubud is a little farther away than many of the beach towns but it is still easy to get to. From the Ngurah Rai International Airport you can hire a taxi for about 300k Rp ($21 USD) to take you to Ubud. The drive will be about 1 hour but could be longer depending on traffic. In addition, your accommodation may also offer airport pickup. If this is an option for you I would highly recommend it. If your accomodation does not offer this I would still ask them if its possible they arrange a driver for you. Getting a taxi at the airport can be chaotic and overwhelming – if you have someone waiting to pick you up it will make the process much smoother.

Need to know

Currency and money

• Currency = Indonesian Rupiah (Rp). You can check here for the most up to date exchange rates.
• Money: Cash is used a lot in Bali but card machines are becoming more readily available. ATMs are plentiful making it easy to take out money. When you arrive at the airport I would recommend taking out cash at this time. Other safe locations to take out money are established bank ATMs or if available, in the lobby of your hotel. There is no need to stop at a currency exchange location in the airport upon arrival. Just ensure you have called your bank to make them aware that you are travelling.

Getting around Ubud

• Walking: Ubud is a very walkable place. If you are staying in the centre of Ubud you will be able to walk to all of the shops, restaurants, yoga studios and spas quite easily. The days in Ubud can get quite hot, make sure you bring a hat, comfortable walking shoes and water with you on your walks.
• Rent a scooter: Some of the experiences outlined below require additional transportation. If you are an experienced driver (with an international drivers licence), I recommend renting a scooter. These are easy to park and will allow you to explore the area very easily. Ask your hotel or accomodation host about a scooter rental and they should be able to set you up.
• Hire a car: If renting a scooter is not an option for you, then I recommend hiring a driver for the day to take you to the locations that are too far to walk to. Your hotel or accomodation host will be able to arrange this for you or direct you to some great options.

Best things to do in Ubud, Bali

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

• This incredible rice terrace is a must-see spot in Bali. The lush and green rice paddies are surrounded by tall palm trees creating a scene out of a movie. Tegalalang is about a 20-minute drive from the Ubud town centre depending on traffic and time of day. Get there before 10:00am to beat the crowds and the heat. There are multiple gorgeous lookout points and places for photo-ops but if you have time I recommend walking down and exploring the paths throughout the rice paddies. Ensure you are respectful and stay on the paths so that you aren’t damaging the crops.

Ubud Art Markets

• These colourful and fun markets are located in Ubud town centre. They are easy walking distance from any accomodation in the town centre of Ubud. Browse through the locally made scarves, bags, hats and clothing. Many similar products are offered so I recommend walking through the entire market and then returning back to your favourite items to purchase them. Definitely get there early in the morning (before 10:00am) to beat the crowds. Many of the shop workers will be very persistent and ask you to buy or offer you the price. It can be overwhelming if you’re not used to shopping in that type of environment. I recommend just smiling and saying no thank you and continue shopping. Engage in a price negotiation once you’ve found something you really love.

Tirta Empul Water Temple

• This temple is one of the largest in Bali and in English means Holy Water Spring. It is such a beautiful place to visit and a great way to learn about the historical and current Hindu traditions practiced here. This temple is about a 30-minute drive from Ubud and is open 7 days a week. You will be required to pay a small entrance fee. Ensure you are a respectful traveller by following all of the protocols such as wearing a sarong before entering the temple. Either bring one with you or pay a small donation to borrow one at the entrance of the temple. Enjoy wandering around the stunning courtyards, and respectfully observe the Holy Water purification ritual. I recommend finding a quiet spot and taking in the peace and beauty that surrounds you there.

Tukad Cepung Waterfall

• This magical waterfall makes you feel as though you’ve entered a fairy kingdom! It is famous for the light rays that stream down making you feel like you’re in another world. It is about a 50-minute drive from Ubud. I recommend adding this waterfall to a day trip with Tibumana waterfall. Check out this post on must-see waterfalls in Bali to learn more. Make sure you’re prepared for a hike and to wade through water. Definitely bring a swimsuit and arrive early morning as arriving mid-day will leave you stuck in the crowds.

Tibumana Waterfall

• This gorgeous waterfall falls perfectly into a refreshing blue lagoon. It is about a 30-minute drive from Ubud. Ensure you bring appropriate shoes for a hike and a swimsuit so you can cool off once you get there! Have cash ready to pay the small entrance fee on the hike down. This waterfall also has toilets, lockers and a nice changing area you can use for a small donation.

Goa Gajah (The Elephant Cave)

• This unique cave is definitely a remarkable site to see. It is only a 10-minute drive from Ubud town centre. It is often quite busy so be prepared to wait to enter inside and to get a photo. Arrive before 10:00am if possible. It is a unique site but note that there is not much to see inside the cave. The real attraction is the stunning carving on the outside.

Eat in nature at the beautiful Soma Cafe

• Soma cafe was my favourite place to eat in Ubud. It is a delicious vegetarian restaurant offering amazing meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I highly recommend eating at least 1 meal at this epic spot. It is located in Ubud town centre and will be easy to walk to from almost any Ubud accommodation. You will absolutely love the indoor/outdoor vibe of this place. In addition, the service was exceptional. Can’t recommend enough!

Enjoy delicious plant-based meals at Zest

• Zest is an epic plant-based restaurant which offers incredible meals made with local and organic ingredients. This whole restaurant is an experience. The entrance and outdoor area are stunning displaying beautiful sculptures and architecture. The restaurant itself surrounds a living tree with a variety of gorgeous seating areas. Then the food, oh the food! I love how they highlight delicious local ingredients from breakfast to dinner to dessert.

Visit the Yoga Barn

• The iconic Yoga Barn is the place to be for an amazing yoga class in Ubud. Take a yoga class with an incredible view of the surrounding jungle. They also offer meditation classes, pilates, dance, and retreats. After your class stop by their cafe for a delicious post-workout meal! Yoga Barn also offers multiple workshops and in-person yoga teacher training that includes your stay and all meals!

Hit the spa

• Getting a facial or massage is a great way to spend a peaceful (and maybe a rainy) day in Ubud. I loved visiting Skin Organic Ubud and highly recommend you check them out! They offer a variety of services including massages, acupressure, body exfoliation, facials, mani-pedi and waxing.

This post was all about the top 10 things to do in Ubud, Bali. Where will you visit first? Let me know in the comments below!