Best places to visit in Bali.
For a first trip, pair Ubud's rice terraces and water temples with the cliffs and sunsets of Uluwatu. Add Nusa Penida for dramatic coastline, or the Munduk highlands for cool air, lakes and waterfalls.
Nusa Penida
Bali's wildest cliffs and manta-ray waters.
- Best time
- Apr–Nov
- Stay
- 1 long day or 2 to 3 days
Munduk & Bedugul
Cool highlands, lake temples and hidden waterfalls.
- Best time
- All year
- Stay
- 1 long day or 2 days
Compare at a glance.
| Destination | Best for | Best time | How long | From Ubud |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ubud | Culture, temples and rice terraces | Apr–Oct | 2 to 3 days | Base |
| Uluwatu | Sunsets, surf beaches and cliff views | May–Sep | Half a day to 2 days | 1 h 30 |
| Nusa Penida | Dramatic coastline and snorkelling | Apr–Nov | 1 long day or 2 to 3 days | 45 min + boat |
| Munduk & Bedugul | Lakes, waterfalls and cool weather | All year | 1 long day or 2 days | 2 h 30 |
Questions travellers ask.
What are the best places to visit in Bali for first-timers?
Ubud and Uluwatu make the classic first pairing: rice terraces and water temples in the uplands, then cliffs, beaches and the kecak fire dance in the south. Add Nusa Penida if you have an extra day for dramatic coastline.
Is it better to stay in one place or move around Bali?
Moving once or twice works best. Roads are slow, so basing yourself near Ubud and then in the south cuts driving time and lets you see more of the island.
How many days do you need in Bali?
Three days covers the classic highlights around Ubud and Uluwatu. Five days adds Nusa Penida and the northern lakes at a comfortable pace.