Ubud is the kind of place where you plan to stay a few days but find yourself lingering far longer than expected. When I first arrived, I was drawn in by its reputation — thanks in part to the romantic portrayal in Eat Pray Love — but what kept me here was so much more.
Despite its booming tourism, Ubud hasn’t lost the charm that has captivated travellers for decades. It’s a sanctuary of spirituality, mindfulness, and relaxation, paired with incredible food and surrounded by Indonesia’s breathtaking natural beauty. Balinese culture is woven into every corner, from the vibrant markets to the peaceful rice terraces.
If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Ubud, I’ve curated this list to help you dive deep into its essence and experience the magic that makes it unforgettable.
Things to Do in Ubud
From lush rice terraces and sacred temples to vibrant markets and world-class spas, these are the experiences that capture the heart of Ubud and showcase the best of Bali’s cultural and natural treasures.
1. Move through the Assortment of Retail, Souvenir and Traditional Shops along Jalan Hanoman and Jalan Monkey Forest
After arriving in Ubud mid-morning and settling into your hotel, it’s time to stretch your legs and adjust to the humid, fragrant air swirling overhead.
Let the anticipation build as you stroll along Ubud’s most famous shopping streets: Jalan Hanoman and Jalan Monkey Forest. These vibrant avenues offer a kaleidoscope of shops, from traditional crafts to stylish souvenirs, catering to every kind of traveller. You’ll likely encounter day-trippers from Kuta, but don’t let the crowds deter you — there are plenty of quieter spots to retreat to in the surrounding hills later.
Even if shopping isn’t your thing, these streets are the perfect place to get your bearings. And it'll unveil the nucleus of Ubud: a cultural hub in Bali’s emerald core with an edifying-heart beating akin to the local Zeitgeist of art, tranquillity and spirituality.
For something quintessentially Southeast Asian, don’t miss Bambooku, where you’ll find beautiful bamboo products. And with countless food and drink options along the way, I recommend pausing now and then to try some of the delicious local flavours — it’s all part of the experience.
I spent a few hours wandering these streets, and to my surprise, I ended up with more treasures than I’d planned to bring home. Exploring here is an essential part of the many things to do in Ubud that capture the town’s essence.
2. Take a Stroll Through Ubud Monkey Forest and Pose (a Distance Away) with a Mischievous Furry Creature
For a chance to get up close (but not too close) with over 700 mischievous Balinese macaques, head to Ubud Monkey Forest. This lush strip of jungle, located at the southern end of Jalan Monkey Forest, offers a fascinating mix of wildlife and culture.
Considered sacred by locals, the sanctuary is home to several ancient temples — most of which are adorned by the forest’s furry residents — that date back to the 14th century. Strolling through this space feels otherworldly and offers a blend of education and entertainment that can easily fill a few hours.
Although the monkeys are endearing, I kept a safe distance. They can be unpredictable, and trust me, you don’t want an uninvited bite to ruin your Balinese escape. Make sure your rabies vaccination is up-to-date, and keep your belongings close, as these little primates are known for their sticky fingers.
Visiting the Monkey Forest is undoubtedly one of the things to do in Ubud that’s both memorable and uniquely Balinese.
3. Explore the Historic Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung)
Located in the centre of Ubud, Puri Saren Agung — better known as Ubud Palace — offers a glimpse into Bali’s royal past. Once home to the local royal family, its traditional Balinese architecture and detailed stone carvings are a testament to the island’s craftsmanship.
When I visited, I was struck by how seamlessly the palace blends with the energy of Ubud. While it’s relatively small, the intricate gates and peaceful courtyards make it a fascinating place to explore, especially if you take the time to appreciate the artistry in every corner.
In the evenings, the palace transforms into a stage for traditional Balinese dance performances. It’s an intimate way to experience the island’s culture, surrounded by the same walls that have stood for generations.
Whether you come to wander during the day or attend a performance at night, Ubud Palace offers a meaningful connection to the traditions that define the town.
4. Admire the Lotus-Filled Serenity of Pura Taman Saraswati
Just a short stroll from Ubud Palace, Pura Taman Saraswati is a beautiful water temple dedicated to Dewi Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom, art, and learning.
The temple’s highlight is its tranquil lotus-filled ponds framed by intricately carved stonework, making it one of Ubud’s most photogenic spots.
When I visited, I found it a peaceful escape from the bustling streets, especially in the early morning when the light casts a golden glow over the temple. Entry is free, but access is limited to the outer courtyard, which is more than enough to appreciate its beauty.
In the evenings, you can also catch traditional dance performances here, adding another layer to the experience.
5. Step Back in History at the Effervescent Don Antonio Blanco Museum
Once the home of Philippine-born Spanish artist Don Antonio Blanco, this museum was established by his family to honor his eclectic legacy. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece, perched atop a hill with stunning views of the Campuhan valley and surrounded by lush gardens. It’s a visual treat and an unofficial landmark of Ubud.
For an entry fee of 50,000 Indonesian Rupiah, you’ll receive a complimentary icy cold drink before diving into the artist’s world. The galleries are filled with a mix of paintings, collages, and lithographs, most of which depict nude Balinese women. It’s easy to lose track of time exploring the layers of his creative vision and philosophies.
If you’re fortunate, you might even get a personalised tour from a member of the Blanco family, adding an intimate touch to the experience.
For me, this museum was a refreshing escape from the midday heat, offering a sophisticated retreat that seamlessly blends art, history, and a touch of indulgence.
6. Indulge in Indonesian Cuisine at Bebek Bengil on Jalan Hanoman
Home to hundreds — if not thousands — of food options, Ubud is a paradise for gastronomy aficionados. Moving between its picturesque dining locales, often perched beside or amid rice paddies, is a feast for the senses. Bebek Bengil is no exception.
Backing onto a sea of green, this iconic restaurant invites diners to sink their teeth into its famous crispy duck while relaxing in wooden huts surrounded by vibrant emerald hues. Aside from the duck, the menu boasts a variety of mouthwatering dishes, including chicken cooked in the velvety, nutty goodness of satay ayam.
Dining at the ‘Dirty Duck Diner’ was an unforgettable multi-sensorial experience that left me both satisfied and eager to return.
7. Pamper Yourself by Means of Reflexology or a Full Body Massage at a Spa
Much like Ubud’s dining scene, its spa and wellness offerings are seemingly endless. Spas and wellness centres are everywhere, making it easy to indulge but equally difficult to choose the perfect escape-from-reality establishment.
It’s no exaggeration to say you could plan an entire trip around Ubud’s spas, drifting from oily acupressure sessions into soothing petal baths. During my time here, I ‘researched’ extensively (purely for journalistic purposes, of course) and found pure bliss with a full-body massage at Jaen’s Spa, followed by an incredible reflexology session at Dini Bali that left my feet practically floating.
Taking time for a spa visit in Ubud isn’t just indulgent — it’s an essential part of immersing yourself in Indonesian culture.
8. Walk or Ride Along Jalan Subak Sok Wayah
Escaping Ubud’s bustling center is as easy as taking a short stroll or ride north along Jalan Subak Sok Wayah (also known as the Sari Organic Walk). Within minutes, the urban chaos fades, and the landscape transforms into a sea of emerald hues.
Despite its proximity to town, this path feels like stepping into another world. Flowing rice paddies stretch as far as the eye can see, exuding peace and tranquility. Along the way, you’ll spot farmers in traditional cone-shaped straw hats tending their fields, a scene that perfectly captures rural Bali’s charm.
Scattered cafes and restaurants dot the route, offering plenty of opportunities to take a break and refuel.
I couldn’t resist stopping at Café Pomegranate, where my curious appetite was rewarded with good food and stunning views of the surrounding rice fields. It’s the perfect way to balance exploration and relaxation.
9. Dine with a Luscious View of Rice Paddy Fields at Café Pomegranate
Café Pomegranate is a standout stop along Jalan Subak Sok Wayah, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Ubud’s iconic rice fields. Few places capture the magic of the area as well as this open-air gem, with vistas that stretch all the way to the holy mountain in the north.
Unwinding here feels like a holistic experience — good food, peaceful surroundings, and nature’s beauty all come together. The menu is impressive, featuring a mix of international dishes to satisfy a variety of cravings. I decided to boost my inner health with a papaya and turmeric smoothie, a refreshing and flavourful blend that hit the spot.
Café Pomegranate is the perfect place to pause, take in the scenery, and savour the inimitable charm of Ubud’s countryside.
10. Collect Indonesian Treasures at Ubud Traditional Art Market
Even if shopping isn’t usually your thing, a visit to the Ubud Traditional Art Market — conveniently located opposite Ubud Palace — is an experience you shouldn’t miss. It’s not just about buying souvenirs; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in Indonesian culture, meet local artisans, and witness the creative heart of the community.
For anyone exploring the things to do in Ubud, this market is a treasure trove of art, crafts, and handmade goods. Spend an hour or two browsing the stalls, honing your bargaining skills, and discovering unique items that tell the story of Bali.
I couldn’t resist a handcrafted mini-surfboard sold to me by a persuasive, shoulder-height vendor — a quirky relic of a sport I’ve never even tried. My father, though, appreciated it as a thoughtful keepsake from my Balinese adventure.
Whether you're buying or just looking, the market is a lively and memorable stop.
11. Traipse through the Cascading Tegallalang Rice Terraces
A short ride from Ubud’s centre, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces transport you to a world shaped by ingenuity and tradition. These iconic terraces, carved into the hills, demonstrate the art of wet rice farming, a hallmark of Balinese and Southeast Asian agricultural practices.
If you’ve ever wanted to experience the thrill of navigating Bali’s winding roads on a scooter, this journey offers the perfect opportunity. With stops along the way that reveal the textures and rhythms of local life, it’s an adventure worth taking. If scooters aren’t your thing, taxis are a hassle-free alternative — just agree on the fare before you set off.
Once you arrive, take your time wandering through the layered fields. It’s more than a photo opportunity; it’s a glimpse into the hard work and harmony with nature that defines life here. Wear shoes that can handle muddy paths, and keep some small Rupiah notes handy, as donations are often requested for entry to the terraces.
Ensure you stop to engage with farmers on your sloped walk.
Exploring Tegallalang offers a deeper connection to Bali’s landscapes and traditions — a journey that stays with you.
12. Titillate your Tastebuds at Luwak Coffee
Just 700 metres down the hill from the rice terraces is Luwak Coffee, one of the must-try experiences among the many things to do in Ubud.
If you’ve ever wondered what happens to coffee beans during the production process, this coffee plantation visit is a fascinating and eye-opening stop. I learned all about the role of the civet cat — or more specifically, its digestive system — in creating this world-renowned coffee.
Perched on the same hill as Tegallalang, the plantation offers a guided and educational walk through its grounds, which I found both refreshing and insightful. The highlight, of course, is sampling the delicious array of coffee flavours and local teas at the end of the tour. Best of all, the tour and bite-sized samples were complimentary.
Take your time wandering through the shop afterward — it’s the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir or two to remind you of your Ubud adventure.
Practical Info for Planning Your Ubud Adventure
Here are a few things you need to know to make the most of your time exploring Ubud’s top attractions.
Getting to Ubud
Reaching Ubud is simple, with options ranging from taxis to budget-friendly bemos and buses from Bali’s main hubs like Denpasar and Canggu.
By Bus
There are bus services offered by the company Perama between various points on Bali and Ubud (such as from Ngurah Rai International Airport, Lovina and Candidasa).
The service costs approximately 50,000 Rp and it's non-stop. It's not considered a public bus service. In fact, there is no public bus service to Ubud.
The terminal for Perama is 2 kilometres outside of Ubud. See their website for details.
By Bemo (minivan)
Bemo's depart for Ubud from Denpasar's Batubulan terminal. The journey takes an hour and the price is variable (often around 50,000 Rp for foreigners). Services stop running to Ubud at 4pm so you'll need to consider alternative options if arriving after this time.
By Taxi
It's a fairly expensive option of getting to Ubud, a one-way trip from Denpasar or Kuta likely to cost 150,000 Rp. You'll get a better deal if you book the taxi for a return trip otherwise a 30% surcharge applies.
Similar to Uber (in some ways), you can download Grab, GoJek or Bali Cab applications, all of which allow you to book (like you would an Uber) a driver and know the fare upfront. Fares are likely to be a little cheaper than using a taxi.
Getting Around Ubud
Getting around Ubud is easy, whether you prefer walking, renting a scooter, or hopping into a bemo.
On Foot
Each time I've visited Ubud, I've walked everywhere. It's the best way to see the heart of Ubud, a town that's not as big as you might expect.
Distances in town are reasonably short so it doesn't make sense to use transport. However, it is incredibly congested with sidewalks that are often blocked (by a miscellany of things, including scooters). It can be frustrating and hot at times.
Once you move outside of town to the rice terraces, for example, then you might want to consider alternative transport options.
By Bemo
Bemos are a fun and budget-friendly way to get around Ubud, especially in the morning. The main stop is Ubud market near Jalan Monkey Forest and Jalan Raya Ubud.
By Scooter/Motorbike
So long as you are careful, drive responsibly and maintain an awareness of the dangers, then using a scooter is a perfectly suitable way of moving, particularly if you want to get out of Ubud. Rentals are between 50,000 and 80,000 Rp a day and bikes can be found all over - they're ubiquitous, like they are in most South-East Asian countries.
If you get lost, stop and ask for directions: Indonesians are generally very kind and willing to help.
Where to Stay in Ubud
From jungle retreats to stays in the heart of town, Ubud offers accommodation to suit every traveller's style and budget.
Budget: Tegar Guest House Ubud
Tegar Guest House Ubud is a budget-friendly option in the heart of Ubud, just 500 metres from Ubud Palace and 600 metres from Pura Taman Saraswati. Surrounded by lush gardens, it offers free WiFi, private entrances, and a peaceful terrace to unwind after exploring.
With key attractions like the Monkey Forest and Blanco Museum nearby, it’s the perfect base for an affordable Ubud stay.
Mid-Range: Parvati Retreat Villas
Parvati Retreat Villas strikes the perfect balance between affordability and indulgence, offering mid-range accommodations just a short walk from Ubud’s centre. With air-conditioned rooms, balconies, and a pool with a view, this retreat provides a serene escape while keeping you close to key attractions like Ubud Palace and Saraswati Temple.
Start your mornings with a choice of continental, American, or vegetarian breakfasts before setting out to explore. For added convenience, the property offers bicycle and car rentals, as well as airport transfers.
Mid-Range to High End: Ubud Padi Villas
As someone who usually sticks to hostels and budget stays, Ubud Padi Villas was an indulgence I rarely allow myself — but it was worth every moment. Nestled among rice paddies with a view of Mount Batur, this was a one-off treat on my holiday, and for the first time ever, I had my very own lap pool!
The villa combined traditional Balinese architecture with modern comforts, offering a space that felt both luxurious and welcoming. I loved starting my mornings with a dip in the pool, followed by a leisurely breakfast overlooking the rice fields. The private butler service and marble bathroom were just the icing on the cake.
Located just a few minutes’ drive from Ubud Palace, it felt like a peaceful retreat while still being close to the heart of Ubud.
For me, staying here was more than just accommodation — it was an experience to savour, and a rare solo indulgence I’ll always remember.
High End: Bisma Eight – CHSE Certified
For a high-end stay in Ubud, Bisma Eight – CHSE Certified redefines luxury with its spacious suites, serene villas, and impeccable attention to detail. Just minutes from Ubud’s centre, this boutique hotel blends modern sophistication with Balinese tradition, offering features like Japanese soaking tubs, a temperature-controlled pool, and lush, natural surroundings.
Choose from artisan-designed suites or private villas with shaded gardens, open-air living spaces, and personal pools. Add in complimentary yoga classes, a fitness centre, and the indulgent Mandala Spa, and your Ubud escape reaches a whole new level of refinement - with the price tag to match.
Best Time to Visit Ubud
In my experience, Ubud is a place you can visit year-round, but some times are definitely better than others depending on what you're after.
The dry season, from April to October, is generally the most comfortable, with sunny skies and lower humidity. It’s perfect for exploring the rice terraces, taking long walks through the Monkey Forest, or scootering around without worrying about getting drenched.
That said, I visited during the wet season (November to March), and while there were a few afternoon downpours, I found the rain made everything greener and more vibrant. It was also a bit quieter, which was a huge plus for me. Just be prepared to pack a lightweight rain jacket and embrace the occasional muddy path.
If you love festivals and local culture, try to time your trip around Nyepi (Day of Silence) or Galungan, when the streets come alive with ceremonies and celebrations. These events are a window into the heart of Balinese traditions and make your trip feel even more special.
For me, the best time was when I could wake up to the sound of the rainforest and not feel rushed — so whenever you go, give yourself enough time to soak it all in.
Visa Formalities for Visiting Indonesia
Entering Indonesia is a straightforward process, but recent updates mean travelers need to be aware of the current requirements. Many nationalities, including Australians, can apply for an Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) through the official eVisa website.
The e-VOA allows a stay of up to 30 days and can be extended once for another 30 days if needed. Here are the key requirements:
- Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry and have at least one blank page for the visa stamp.
- Application Requirements: You’ll need a valid passport, a return or onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds to complete the online application.
Be sure to check the Indonesian Immigration website for the most up-to-date entry requirements and ensure your visa is processed before departure to avoid any issues at the border.
Spending in Ubud: Currency
The official currency in Ubud (and all of Bali and Indonesia) is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). While larger establishments, such as hotels and higher-end restaurants, often accept credit cards, cash is still king for day-to-day expenses like shopping at markets, eating at smaller warungs, or paying for local transport.
Exchange Tips
- It’s best to exchange money at reputable money changers, such as Central Kuta Money Exchange, to avoid scams or hidden fees.
- Avoid small or overly flashy money-changing booths offering significantly better rates — they can sometimes be unreliable.
Payment Advice
- Always carry small denominations of Rupiah, as many vendors and drivers may not have change for larger bills.
- ATMs are widely available in Ubud, but be mindful of withdrawal fees and transaction limits.
Conclusion: Things to Do in Ubud
Ubud is more than just a destination — it’s an experience that leaves an imprint on your soul. From exploring lush rice terraces to indulging in Balinese cuisine and connecting with the island’s deep spirituality, there’s something here for everyone. My time in Ubud reminded me of the importance of slowing down, embracing new experiences, and finding joy in the simplest of moments.
Whether you’re planning a short visit or already suspect you’ll stay longer than intended, Ubud will welcome you with open arms and endless adventures. So, pack your bags, and let the many things to do in Ubud guide your journey as you uncover the magic of Bali’s cultural heart.
