10 days in Bali: the perfect itinerary for first-time visitors
Planning a trip to Bali? With so much to see, choosing the right itinerary is key to making the most of your time. Whether it's enjoying the vibrant beach scene in Seminyak, a spiritual retreat in Ubud, or the luxurious beaches of Nusa Dua, Bali offers diverse experiences for every type of traveller.
This 10-day itinerary is designed to capture the island's highlights while leaving room for exploration and relaxation!
Planning your trip to bali: how much time and what to visit
Bali, often referred to as the "Island of the Gods," is a captivating destination that combines breathtaking natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage. For those visiting for the first time, a minimum of 10 days is the perfect duration to immerse yourself in the island's offerings. With ten days in Bali, you can experience a perfect blend of sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural immersion.
Begin your journey in Seminyak, a vibrant beach town known for its upscale resorts, trendy beach clubs, and breathtaking sunsets.
Next, make your way to Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali. Here, you can explore traditional crafts, bustling art markets, and tranquil rice terraces. Ubud is ideal for diving into Balinese culture, enjoying yoga sessions, and serving as your base for visiting the island’s famous temples.
To conclude your trip in style, head to Nusa Dua, renowned for its luxurious resorts and pristine beaches. We found Nusa Dua more appealing than the crowded and often polluted shores of Seminyak. However, keep in mind that accommodation here is generally pricier, and while it offers relaxation, it may lack the vibrant entertainment options available in Seminyak.
If your schedule is tighter, you can easily adjust this recommended itinerary by reducing a day in Seminyak or skipping Nusa Dua. With this itinerary, you will navigate through vibrant markets, picturesque temples, and serene beaches, capturing the essence of Bali. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, it will help you make the most of your time in this enchanting paradise.
Bali: 10 day itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Seminyak + Relaxing by the Beach
For first-time visitors to Bali, selecting between Seminyak, Kuta Beach, and Canggu can be challenging. While Kuta Beach is famous for its vibrant nightlife and bustling atmosphere, it can be overwhelming and crowded, especially for newcomers seeking tranquility. Canggu offers a more laid-back vibe and is popular among surfers and digital nomads, but it lacks the diverse amenities and nighlife that Seminyak provides.
In Seminyak, you can enjoy a blend of trendy beach clubs, exquisite dining, and beautiful beachfront sunsets, all without the frenetic energy of Kuta or the remoteness of Canggu. This made Seminyak our preferred choice as first-time visitors looking for both relaxation and excitement.
After arriving in Bali from Singapore, we headed straight to Seminyak to spend the afternoon unwinding at our resort, located right next to Seminyak Beach. The sunsets in Seminyak are legendary, so grab a seat at one of the beachside bars and toast to the start of your adventure.
To our disappointment, we found that Seminyak Beach, much like Canggu and Kuta, was heavily polluted. The strong currents and waves, while perfect for surfers, made it less suitable for a leisurely swim. This led us to spend much of our time at the vibrant beach clubs and the pools of our resort, where we could enjoy the lively atmosphere without worrying about the ocean conditions.
Seminyak Beach
Day 2: Beach Day & Tanah Lot Temple
In our first full day in Bali, we headed to the Azul Beach Club, which offers a stunning infinity pool with ocean views and a delicious menu featuring both Western and Indonesian cuisine. Although it is much smaller than the other most popular beach clubs in Bali, it is also way less crowded and we had the pools just to ourselves. It was an ideal spot to relax, swim, and soak in the sun.
In the afternoon, we booked a guided tour to Tanah Lot Temple with GetYourGuide, one of Bali's most iconic landmarks. This sea temple is set on a rock formation and is particularly famous for its breathtaking sunset views. When you arrive, take a moment to explore the area surrounding the temple, which is filled with small shops and local artisans selling handcrafted souvenirs.
The temple itself, dedicated to the sea gods, showcases traditional Balinese architecture and is an important spiritual site. Watching the sunset paint the sky with hues of orange and pink behind the temple was an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.
Azul Beach Club
Tanah Lot Temple
Day 3: Nusa Penida
We dedicated day three to the breathtaking beauty of Nusa Penida, a small island southeast of Bali. For our visit, we booked a Nusa Penida day trip with GetYourGuide including a speedboat ride.
Upon arrival, we first stopped at Diamond Beach, known for its dramatic cliffs and soft, white sand. The beach is relatively secluded, offering a tranquil atmosphere where you can relax and take in the natural beauty. On the other side of the cliffs you’ll find Atuh Beach, another stunning spot where the cliffs create a picturesque backdrop. The beach is famous for its turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling.
Next, we headed to Broken Beach, a natural rock formation that frames a serene lagoon, providing incredible photo opportunities and some time for a swim
The final stop of the day was Kelingking Beach, often dubbed "the T-Rex Beach" for its unique shape. The view from the cliff is one of the most photographed spots in Bali, but the hike down to the beach is extremely challenging and a day trip won’t give you enough time for this.
Visiting Nusa Penida in a single day was quite the adventure, but it was also a long journey with very limited time at each location. The roads on the island are incredibly winding, and it takes a lot of driving to reach each stop, making the experience feel a bit rushed. Unfortunately, this meant that most of our visits were reduced to quick photo opportunities. Despite all this, Nusa Penida remains the most breathtaking location in Bali, and it ended up becoming one of the highlights of our trip that you absolutely can’t miss!
Diamond Beach
Kelingking Beach
Day 4: Uluwatu’s Coastal Wonders
After unforgettable experiencing the stunning views of Nusa Penida’s natural wonders, we took it easy with a morning visit to Padang Padang Beach from Seminyak. This hidden gem, accessed via a set of stairs through a rocky passage, is known for its clear waters and excellent surfing conditions. The beach is also lined with warungs (small local eateries), where you can grab a bite or a drink while enjoying the sun.
After having lunch, we headed to Thomas Beach, a quieter stretch of sand that initially seemed perfect for relaxation. However, we found the beach to be quite polluted and with very few restaurant and bar options, prompting us to spend only a short time there. I would recommend either lingering longer at Padang Padang Beach or heading straight to Uluwatu Beach for a more enjoyable experience.
In the late afternoon, head to Uluwatu Beach and settle in at Single Fin Bali. This popular venue not only offers stunning views of the ocean but also has a lively atmosphere, particularly during sunset. As the sun begins to set, you can enjoy watching surfers tackle the waves, creating a mesmerising scene against the backdrop of a fiery sky. The combination of live music and delicious cocktails made it a fantastic way to end our day.
As an alternative, consider visiting Uluwatu Temple in the late afternoon. Perched on a dramatic cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, this stunning temple offers breathtaking views that rival those of Uluwatu Beach. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, the temple becomes a magical setting, with its intricate architecture silhouetted against a vibrant sky. Plus, you can catch the traditional Kecak fire dance show held at the temple, which adds a cultural touch to your sunset experience. Be cautious of the monkeys at Uluwatu Temple, as they’re notorious for snatching visitors’ phones, sunglasses, and bags—anything you’re carrying could become their next target!
Padang Padang Beach
Uluwatu Beach
Day 5: Relaxing at a Beach Club
You can spend your last morning in Seminyak at one of its renowned beach clubs. Choose from Potato Head, known for its beautiful beachfront pool and vibrant atmosphere; Ku De Ta, which offers a more upscale experience with a stylish design; or Cocoon, a much cheaper option with excellent drinks and dining options. Each beach club offers a unique vibe, so you can spend your day lounging in the sun, enjoying exquisite meals, and sipping on refreshing drinks.
In the late afternoon, we grabbed a taxi to Ubud for a change of pace. Ubud is known as Bali’s cultural heart, surrounded by lush rice paddies and verdant forests. We stayed at Dewangga Ubud, a serene resort that provides a perfect base for exploring the area. Take a stroll through the resort's gardens or relax in your room, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere before heading out to explore Ubud’s vibrant culinary scene.
Potato Head
Bali Beachclub
Day 6: Discover Ubud’s Culture
We started our Ubud exploration with a visit to the Ubud Market, where you can find local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. This bustling market is a treasure trove of Balinese culture, and bargaining is part of the fun! Next, we stopped by the Ubud Royal Palace, a beautifully preserved complex that showcases traditional Balinese architecture.
Continue your day by exploring the many temples in Ubud city centre. Saraswati Temple is known for its stunning lotus ponds and intricate carvings, while Pura Dalem Temple is famous for its ornate gateways and spiritual significance.
We spent the rest of the afternoon at the Kayon Jungle Resort, where the infinity pools overlook lush rice fields, creating a serene setting to relax and take in the natural beauty of Bali. Enjoy a refreshing drink as you gaze out over the landscape, feeling the peaceful ambiance.
In the evening, you can’t miss a Legong Dance show in Ubud Palace to experience traditional Balinese culture and storytelling through dance and music, enhancing your appreciation for the island’s rich artistic traditions.
Ubud Temple
Saraswati Temple
Pura Dalem Temple
Kayon Jungle Resort
Day 7: Temple Hopping from Ubud
Today's adventure took us to some of Bali's most famous sites on a full-day temple tour with GetYourGuide. Among other temples, the tour included Lempuyang Temple, famously known for its Gates of Heaven, which is one of the most visited spots in Bali due to the famous reflection photo. However, we ultimately decided to skip this temple for a few reasons.
Firstly, the temple is not open for visitors, so all you can see are the famous Gates of Heaven. The long queues for a photo can last several hours, often requiring an early wake-up call at 3 AM just to be among the first to arrive. Even then, you still end up waiting in line. While the gates are undeniably beautiful, they’re not unique to Lempuyang; similar gates can be found throughout Bali. The main attraction is the backdrop of the volcano, but if the weather is cloudy, that view is completely obscured. Moreover, the reflections you see in those iconic photos are created using a mirror placed below, rather than a natural water reflection. Considering all these factors, we felt it wasn’t worth the hassle, so we decided to adjust our itinerary and explore other stunning locations instead. That said, if you’re ready for an early rise feel like you can’t miss the photo at the Gates of Heaven, definitely go for it!
Instead, we began our day at the Sangeh Monkey Forest, where we observed playful monkeys amidst towering nutmeg trees. This lush setting also houses several ancient temples, and the mischievous monkeys provide plenty of entertainment as you explore. While the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud is the more popular choice, its monkeys can be more aggressive, which is why we opted for Sangeh Monkey Forest instead.
Next, we made our way to Tirta Gangga, a beautiful water palace surrounded by tiered fountains and lush gardens. The water here is believed to have healing properties, making it a sacred site for locals.
We concluded our temple tour at Pura Besakih, Bali’s largest and holiest temple, set on the slopes of Mount Agung. This intricate temple complex consists of numerous shrines and is considered the Mother Temple of Bali. During our visit to the temple, we happened to arrive during an annual religious celebration, which drew pilgrims from across the island. While this meant that several parts of the temple were closed, it gave us a chance to see the local celebrations and processions up close. It was a unique experience that you don’t encounter every day!
Sangeh Monkey Forest
Balinese landscape
Tirta Gangga
Pura Besakih Temple
Day 8: Customized Ubud Tour and Nusa Dua
For our last day in Ubud, we booked the Ubud customised private tour with GetYourGuide. This flexible tour allowed us to choose some of the most picturesque locations in the Ubud area. Our first stop was the breathtaking Ubud Rice Terraces, known for their stunning green paddies and unique subak irrigation system. You can even take a swing over the terraces for an unforgettable experience.
We next explored Gunung Kawi Temple, an ancient site with impressive rock-cut shrines. The temple is located in a beautiful valley, and the descent involves a scenic walk down steep steps. Afterward, we headed to Tibumana Waterfall, a hidden gem where you can take a refreshing dip in the natural pool beneath the falls.
Don’t miss Penglipuran Village, a traditional Balinese village known for its well-preserved culture and beautiful bamboo architecture. Strolling through the village offers insight into local life and traditions.
Our last stop was Goa Gajah Temple, also known as the Elephant Cave. This ancient and sacred temple that dates back to the 11th century and is renowned for its intricate rock carvings and bathing pools surrounded by lush gardens. The temple’s entrance, marked by a demonic face carved into the stone, is believed to ward off evil spirits.
At the end of the day, our driver brought us to Nusa Dua for a luxurious two-night stay at the Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa. This area is renowned for its pristine beaches and upscale resorts, providing a perfect transition into relaxation.
Ubud Rice Terrace
Gunung Kawi Temple
Tibumana Waterfall
Penglipuran Village
Goa Gajah Temple
Day 9: Relaxation in Nusa Dua
Our stay in Nusa Dua was all about unwinding and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. You can spend the morning on the pristine beaches, known for their calm waters and soft sands. This area is perfect for swimming, snorkling, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the sea.
You can’t miss a rejuvenating Balinese massage during your stay. Many resorts in Nusa Dua have a spa that tends to be overpriced, so if you’re looking for a great experience for a reasonable budget, I highly recommend theWe had a fantastic experience and they even offer a free transfer from most resorts, so it couldn’t be more convenient!
Don't miss out on a rejuvenating Balinese massage while you're here. While many Nusa Dua resorts have spas, they tend to be on the pricier side. For a luxurious experience at a more reasonable price, I highly recommend Zahra Luxury Spa. We had an amazing time, and they even provide a complimentary transfer from most resorts, making it incredibly convenient!
Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua
Day 10: Final Moments in Nusa Dua
The final day in Bali is all about savouring the last moments in paradise. Start your morning by indulging in a leisurely breakfast at your resort, enjoying fresh tropical fruits and delicious Balinese dishes. If time allows, head to the beach for some final relaxation before heading to the airport to catch your flight.
The next stop of our trip was Kuala Lumpur, where we spent two days in the Malaysian capital!
Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa
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