How to Spend SEVEN to TEN Days in Bali, Indonesia: 7 to 10-Day Itinerary

Looking for the perfect Bali itinerary? You’re in the right place! 

Bali packs jungle temples, rice terraces, world-class surf, and clifftop sunsets into one small island, which is exactly why planning a trip can feel overwhelming. If you’re wondering where you should base yourself and how much is too much, you’re definitely not alone. We were the same before our first trip to Bali (which was now longer ago than we’d probably care to admit!)

After many trips to the Island of the Gods, we’ve put together a route that splits your time between three very different parts of the island to ensure that you get the full experience. Keep on reading to plan your perfect Bali adventure.

Itinerary Overview

Transport in Bali is mostly a two-wheeled affair. You can rent a scooter if you’re happy to drive yourself, or use the Grab app to hail a ride instead. We usually rent scooters at each base, but only on the days that we need them. 

Then, when you’re moving your luggage from one part of the island to another, you obviously won’t want to do that by moped! We usually arrange a private driver through our hotel, or just hail a car via Grab.

Here’s a quick look at where we’ll be spending the next week or so:

• Days 1-4: Ubud – Ubud is known as the cultural heart of Bali! Here, we’ll spend our first day exploring its highlights on a private tour before taking a trip to Nusa Penida. Ubud is also the ideal base to watch the sunrise from Mount Batur!

• Days 5-7: Canggu – This laid-back surf town is known for its cafés and beach clubs. Here, you can learn how to surf, take a Balinese cooking class, and catch sunset at Tanah Lot Temple.

• Days 8-10: Uluwatu – Finish your time in Bali on the clifftops with stunning beaches, spa time, and a Kecak fire dance performance at the famous Uluwatu temple.

Quick note: If you only have 7 days to spend in Bali, take days 3, 6, and 10 out of the itinerary! These are more relaxed days, so you can still hit the most important highlights if you only have a week.

Day 1 – Ubud

Full-day – See Ubud’s highlights: Monkey Forest, rice terraces, and jungle swing

If you only do ONE thing while you’re in Ubud, make it this tour!

This is exactly what we did on our first visit to Ubud, and it was such a great way to see the area’s beauty and highlights in one go. Since it’s a private tour, it’s nice and flexible, with multiple start times available. But since it lasts for about 10 hours, we recommend the 7:30 or 8 am option so that you’re not back too late. 

We grabbed breakfast at our hotel, and then after pickup, our first stop of the day was the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where we strolled along the shady paths and enjoyed watching all of the monkeys in action.

Then, we were off to Tegalalang Rice Terrace, which we loved so much that we could have stayed all day! The jungle swing in particular was so much fun – what a rush! 

After that, we stopped for lunch at a family-owned restaurant tucked into the jungle before visiting Tirta Empul Temple, a holy spring temple where you can watch Balinese people take part in a traditional blessing ritual. It’s a rare chance to see something so special up close.

Then, Tegenungan Waterfall was the perfect chance to cool off after a hot day of sightseeing – don’t forget your swimsuit! The tour finishes in the heart of town with a wander around the Ubud art market and Ubud Palace.

Since this is a private tour, you can customize it however you like, and spend a bit longer at the spots you love most. Our driver, Putu, was amazing, and having a local on hand made the whole day feel so effortless.

Just a heads up: you can book this as transport only, but I’d recommend the option that includes lunch and entry fees, so you don’t have to fumble around with tickets and cash all day. 

Dinner – This Is Bali 

After a pretty long first day of sightseeing, head back to your hotel for a quick shower and a bit of downtime before dinner at This Is Bali.

This popular spot is right in Central Ubud and serves up classic Balinese food, so we think it’s a perfect choice for your first dinner on the island. The atmosphere is relaxed too, which is exactly what you’ll want after a 10-hour tour.

The restaurant’s standout dish is nasi campur, which is actually one of our favorite dishes! The name translates to “mixed rice,” and you basically get to build your own plate by choosing from a selection of meats, vegetables, tempeh, sambal, and more. They also serve up lots of sweet iced drinks, including Balinese chocolate milk- yum! Eat well and then get a fairly early night, because tomorrow is another big day!

Where to Stay in Ubud

Staying in Central Ubud will make it easy to explore surrounding sights and hop on day tours. The area itself is more jungly than beachy, and it’s definitely a tourist hotspot. Here are our top recommendations for hotels in Ubud for a range of budgets.

Luxury – $$$

Kastara Resort is one of the best-reviewed properties on the entire island, featuring traditional design and jungle views. Rooms here cost between $300 and $600 USD per night. Book your stay here!

Mid-range – $$

Bliss Ubud Spa Resort brings beautiful views and quintessential Bali vibes for a reasonable price. Despite its serenity, its location allows easy access to Ubud’s main sights, as it’s just a 5-minute drive or Grab ride from the town center. Rooms start from $100 USD per night and range up to $350 USD for a private villa. Check prices and book your stay here!

Budget – $

SenS Hotel and Spa is a budget-friendly but very comfortable option close to the Ubud Palace and a short drive from the famous Monkey Forest. Expect to pay between $60 and $165 USD per night, depending on your dates and room category. Book your budget stay here!

Day 2 – Ubud

Full day – Visit Nusa Penida Island 

Today is a long one, but trust us, this Nusa Penida day trip is SO worth it. The island truly is a must-visit! You’ve probably seen the crazy cliff views all over Instagram, but there’s so much more to the island than that, including epic snorkeling.

Pickup from Ubud is included, and it takes around an hour to reach Sanur, where you’ll catch the fast boat over to Nusa Penida. The boat ride itself only takes about 30 minutes, and once you arrive, your private driver will be waiting to take you around the island.

Our driver on Nusa Penida was Kogak, and he was awesome. He took us between all of the different stops and made the whole day feel so much easier, especially because the roads here can be pretty wild and cell service isn’t always reliable.

We visited some of Nusa Penida’s most famous spots, including Broken Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Kelingking Beach. This is that famous T-Rex-shaped cliff, but however good it looks online, we can assure you that seeing it in person is even more impressive!

We also spent part of the day snorkeling at a few different spots. Swimming with manta rays was definitely the highlight for us because they came SO close, and we even spotted turtles. How amazing is that?

This tour is so easy because everything is coordinated for you, including transport, fast boat tickets, lunch, and your driver on the island. It makes a huge difference on such a busy day! 

You’ll get back to Ubud tired and probably ready for a shower, but we’d do this day again in a heartbeat because we really got to make the most of every moment on the island. And we’re not the only ones who loved it – you can check out THOUSANDS of 5-star reviews here!

Dinner – Pesona Lounge Ubud 

After another big adventure day, we figured you’ll want dinner to be nice and easy again tonight! Pesona Lounge Ubud is right in Central Ubud, and it serves delicious Indian food in a very laid-back setting. It was exactly what we wanted after spending the whole day out on Nusa Penida!

It’s open until 11 pm too, so there’s no need to rush back, shower, and immediately head out again. Take your time and head over whenever you’re ready to enjoy your fill of comfort food. 

Day 3 – Ubud

Breakfast – Suka Ubud

Your first few days in Bali have been jam-packed, so today it’s time to relax! We recommend starting your day with breakfast and coffee at Suka Ubud. It’s a trendy spot with tons of delicious brekkie favorites on the menu, such as their “chili bae” sourdough and berry pancakes. And this is Bali, so of course you can expect a selection of picture-perfect smoothie bowls!

After breakfast, the rest of your day is up to you. We’ve got a few ideas on how you might like to spend your “off” day in Ubud, or you can always just kick back and hang by the pool. 

Things to do in Ubud for the day

Get a Balinese massage

Massages are SO affordable in Bali, and we get them all the time whenever we’re here! We’re not even exaggerating. In Ubud, you can often get an hour-long Balinese massage for around $10 USD, so can you really blame us?

If you’ve never had one before, a Balinese massage is really relaxing and usually combines gentle stretches, pressure, and long massage strokes. It’s very different from a Thai massage, for example, which is much stronger and more intense. We always come out of spas here feeling completely blissed out! 

You can also get super-cheap foot massages, plus facials and head massages if you want to make a whole spa session out of it. There are massage places all over central Ubud, so you won’t struggle to find one. But if you fancy something a little more special, Mandala Spa Ubud is a lovely upscale option with a minimalist feel.

Wander Ubud at your own pace

One of our favorite things to do in a new place is just wander around, and Ubud is a great city for it! You already saw Ubud Palace and the Art Market on day one, but if you rushed through either of them, now’s the perfect time to head back for another look.

You can also stop by the Water Palace, which is right in town and really beautiful. It’s actually Pura Taman Saraswati, a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess of wisdom and the arts, and the big lotus pond out front is the star of the show. The carved gates are gorgeous too!

And if you fancy getting out of town without going too far, head to Secret Waterfall. It’s tucked away in the greenery around Ubud, and it’s a lot quieter than some of Bali’s more famous waterfalls. You’ll need good footwear for the walk here, but it’s worth it – and we definitely recommend bringing your swimwear so that you can cool off with a refreshing dip once you arrive.

Once you’ve finished exploring, reward yourself by enjoying Ubud’s excellent café scene. Watercress and Milk & Madu were two of our favorites, so we’d happily use this afternoon as an excuse for coffee and a snack (or smoothie bowl!) Bali is famed for its amazing cafes, so it’s only right that you check a few off while you’re here! 

Relax at Cretya Ubud

Ubud might not have beach clubs, but Cretya Ubud is the next best thing! This jungle day club has a huge three-level infinity pool overlooking the rice terraces, and the views are absolutely gorgeous.

We think this is one of the best places in Ubud to just switch off for a few hours. You dip in and out of the pool, and lounge around soaking up those beautiful jungle views. Not bad at all! 

In fact, we’ve been to beach clubs all over the world, but places like this are far less common, so take advantage! Plus, Cretya is much more affordable than a lot of the big beach clubs in South Bali. You can usually get a VIP booth for two for around $65 USD, which is way less than you’d pay at places like Finn’s or Potato Head.

It’s open from 8 am until 9 pm, but we think it’s best for a chilled afternoon rather than a big party. Just note that you need to be 18+ to use the pool area, and we definitely recommend booking ahead if you want a good spot.

Go on an ATV tour

If you’re feeling a bit more active, then this 1.5-hour ATV tour is a really fun option. You’ll ride through rice fields, jungle, rivers, waterfalls, and even a natural tunnel, so it’s a great way to see more of Ubud’s stunning countryside!

You don’t need any previous ATV experience either, as the guides give you a safety briefing before you set off and are there to help along the way. You can choose to ride solo or tandem, which is handy if one of you would rather sit back and enjoy the ride.

Multiple departure times are available throughout the day, so it’s easy to fit this around some of the more relaxing activities on this list. You can also book an option with hotel transfers, which makes it really simple.

Gear, locker use, and lunch are included too, and there’s time to shower and change afterward. Trust us, you’ll be very glad about that once you see how muddy this route can get!

Visit Pura Gunung Kawi temple

We LOVE finding lesser-known spots, and Pura Gunung Kawi is a great one if you want to get a little further away from the crowds. It’s about a 30-minute drive from central Ubud and feels much quieter than some of the better-known temples in the area.

There is one catch, though. You have to tackle more than 300 steps to reach the main temple complex! Luckily, the views over the rice fields on the way down are gorgeous, so at least you’ve got something nice to look at while your legs are working overtime.

Once you reach the bottom, you’ll find 10 huge shrines carved directly into the cliff face. They’re believed to date back around 1,000 years, which is pretty incredible when you’re standing right in front of them.

There’s also a spring here where you can take part in a traditional water purification ritual. If you’d like to do it, there’s usually a priest or local religious guide around who can show you what to do.

Entry costs around $4 USD, and you can rent a sarong at the top if you don’t have one with you. It’s best to bring a few small rupiah notes just to make things easier.

Dinner – Naughty Nuri’s

For dinner, head to Naughty Nuri’s, which is famous for its ribs!

Bali has no shortage of beautiful restaurants, but we’ve learned that a pretty setting doesn’t always guarantee great food. Naughty Nuri’s isn’t the most Instagrammable spot in Ubud, but the food is SO good, and that’s what really counts!

As we mentioned, everyone comes here for the ribs, and they really do live up to the hype. They’re smoky and packed with flavor, so be sure to arrive hungry. 

But if you don’t eat meat, don’t worry! Ubud is famous for its amazing plant-based food scene. Wild Vegan Healing Restaurant is a popular spot with a very wellness-focused menu (in true Ubud style). We also love Cocoku Healthy because it’s aesthetically pleasing and very friendly, with beautiful rice paddy views. 

After dinner, head back to your hotel and get an early night. Tomorrow starts VERY early (and we mean early enough that you’ll probably question your life choices when the alarm goes off!) 

Day 4 – Ubud

Morning – Mount Batur sunrise hike and Hot Springs

Today starts VERY early, but this Mount Batur sunrise hike is worth setting an alarm for. We recommend booking the Mount Batur and Hot Springs option, which includes hotel pickup at around 2 am. Yes, it’s a bit brutal, but watching the sunrise from Mount Batur is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

The reason this tour starts so early is that you’ll hike up Mount Batur in the dark with a local guide, and reach the summit in time to watch the sun come up over the surrounding caldera. The views are breathtaking, but it doesn’t end there. You even get breakfast served up there, including eggs cooked over the volcanic vents – yes, really! 

After climbing a volcano before most people have even woken up, this breakfast tasted absolutely incredible. But our favorite part was actually the hot springs! After the hike, we headed down to the natural hot pools at the foot of Mount Batur for a soak, which felt amazing – and very well-earned, if we do say so ourselves.

You should be back in Ubud at around 11 am or noon, which means you’ve still got the whole afternoon to recover. Personally, we were tired, sure, but we also couldn’t stop talking about what an amazing morning we’d had. And given that this tour has 2,000+ 5-star reviews, we’re definitely not the only ones who were blown away by this experience! 

Lunch – Olea Mediterranean Cuisine

After a 2 am start and a morning spent hiking Mount Batur, we imagine you’ll be more than ready for lunch by the time you get back to Ubud. Fortunately, Olea Mediterranean Cuisine is right in the heart of town and serves fresh, filling food that really hits the spot after such a busy morning.

The menu has lots of Mediterranean favorites, so you can go for something light like a salad or hummus plate, or order something a bit more substantial if you’ve worked up a serious appetite. We definitely fall into the second camp after a hike like that! 

Afternoon – Yoga and relax

After that very early start, keep things nice and chilled this afternoon. If there were any Ubud activities you didn’t get around to yesterday, you can always squeeze one or two of those in, but we definitely don’t recommend planning anything too ambitious!

We decided to head to The Yoga Barn, which is one of the best-known yoga studios in Ubud. Classes run throughout the day, and it’s easy to drop in, so you can see what’s available when you get back. We chose a very gentle class, of course, and it actually proved to be a really good idea after hiking Mount Batur. Our legs were definitely feeling it by this point, so having a good old stretch before dinner was just what we needed.

Dinner – Donna

For your final dinner in Ubud, head to Donna. This is definitely one to book ahead, as it’s super popular and can fill up completely!

The restaurant itself is gorgeous, with a lively atmosphere that makes it feel a little more special than your average dinner spot. The menu has lots of Latin American influences, including dishes like Peruvian seafood paella – yum! 

After dinner, head upstairs for a cocktail if you’ve still got some energy left. The rooftop has an even livelier atmosphere, so it’s a really fun way to round off your last night in Ubud.

Related Read: If you have extra time, check out our favorite things to do in Ubud and add a few more activities to your itinerary!

Day 5 – Ubud to Canggu

Morning – Grab breakfast in Ubud and Campuhan Ridge Walk

Start your final morning in Ubud with breakfast at Milk & Madu Ubud. We’re big fans of this place, and it’s a great spot for coffee and a proper breakfast before you hit the road.

From here, it’s about a 12-minute drive to the Campuhan Ridge Walk, one of Ubud’s nicest easy walks. The trail takes you along a green ridge with views over the surrounding jungle and hills, so it’s an ideal way to squeeze in one last bit of greenery before leaving town.

You can spend around 1.5 to 2 hours here, but there’s no need to do the whole route if you don’t feel like it. Just walk as far as you fancy and then turn back when you’re ready. And remember, this walk is totally optional! You can always fit this walk into another “downtime” section of the Ubud itinerary instead if you’d rather take it slow this morning. 

Mid-day – Travel from Ubud to Canggu

Once you’re finished in Ubud, it’s time to head to Canggu! The drive usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, so thankfully you won’t spend the entire day in transit.

We definitely recommend booking a private car for this trip, either through Grab or your hotel. It’s much easier than messing around with buses, especially with luggage, and it’s usually pretty affordable too.

Once you arrive in Canggu, check into your hotel and take a little breather before heading back out. You’ve got a completely different side of Bali to explore now!

Afternoon – Check out Canggu

For your first few hours in Canggu, keep it simple and just wander around to get your bearings. This town feels totally different from Ubud. While Ubud is all about jungles and temples, Canggu is much beachier, with tons of surf shops and boho boutiques around. But don’t worry, there are just as many great cafes here! 

To explore, we suggest starting around Canggu Center, a local artisan market where you can browse clothing and souvenirs. From there, make your way along Jalan Pantai Batu Bolong, which is one of the main streets through Canggu and packed with shops and places to stop for a coffee or snack.

The road eventually brings you down to Batu Bolong Beach, which is a great place to watch the surfers and soak up the atmosphere. There are plenty of small beach bars and cafes where you can grab a juice or a Bintang and relax in the sun for a bit! 

Sunset – Tanah Lot Temple 

For sunset, head to Tanah Lot Temple, which is one of the most iconic temples near Canggu. It sits on a rocky little island just offshore and dates back to the 16th century, so there’s a lot of history packed into this beautiful, dramatic setting! 

The temple was built to honor Bhatara Segara, the Balinese God of the Sea, and local legend says that a sea snake lives beneath the island to protect it from evil. So, you know, behave yourself!

Only Balinese worshippers can enter the temple itself, but you can still walk out toward it at low tide and admire it from the rocks. We think sunset is the best time to come because the whole place looks incredible with the sky changing behind it.

Tanah Lot is only about 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) from Canggu, but traffic can get rough around sunset, so leave early. We’d give yourself around two hours before sunset so you’re not stressing in traffic and can enjoy the experience once you get there.

Dinner – Sa’Mesa 

After sunset at Tanah Lot, it’s about a 20-minute drive back to Canggu for dinner at Sa’Mesa. This is such a fun one for tonight because it’s not really just dinner; it’s a whole experience!

Sa’Mesa is an Italian family-style restaurant, and since Daniel is Italian, we obviously had to check it out. Everyone sits together at two long tables, and their motto is “Come as strangers, and leave as friends.” It sounds a little cheesy, but it really does feel like that by the end of the night.

You don’t order à la carte here. Instead, you pay a set price and work your way through around 18 different dishes, so come hungry! There’s also homemade limoncello flowing throughout the evening, which definitely helps get everyone chatting.

And then, dinner turns into a party! By the end of the night, people are dancing on the tables, and the whole place has completely come alive. It’s SO much fun, and definitely not the kind of evening we expected to find in Canggu, that’s for sure!

Where to Stay in Canggu

Canggu is a trendy village on Bali’s southwest coast known for its digital nomad and beach scene. There are a lot of great accommodation options here, but these are our top picks!

Luxury – $$$

Holiday Inn Resort Bali Canggu is a stylish luxury hotel just a few minutes’ walk from Bolong Beach. It offers spacious rooms with modern décor and a large rooftop infinity pool that overlooks the ocean – amazing! Rooms here cost between $150 and $250 USD per night, while suites go up to $700 USD. Check prices and book your stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

Chesa Canggu offers bright, modern rooms, and many have balconies overlooking the gorgeous pool or lush gardens. Rooms typically range from $120 to $150 USD per night, which we think is amazing value for money. Book your stay in advance here!

Budget – $

Aston Canggu Beach Resort is a smart and budget-friendly option in the heart of Canggu, just a few minutes’ walk from Canggu Beach, Batu Bolong Beach, and Echo Beach. If you want to surf, then there’s really no better place to stay! Expect to pay between $70 and $135 USD per night, and book your stay here!

Day 6 – Canggu

Morning – Learn how to surf

You can’t spend a few days in Canggu without at least attempting to surf! This private lesson at Batu Bolong Beach is a great place to start, even if you’ve never stood on a board before. Scratch that: especially if you’ve never stood on a board before!

The lesson lasts around two hours, and your instructor starts by going over the basics on land. You’ll learn how to read the waves and get yourself standing before heading into the water to put it all into practice. Since it’s a private lesson, you’ll get plenty of one-on-one help too, which makes a huge difference when you’re trying to figure out what on earth your feet are supposed to be doing!

All of the equipment is included, so you just need to show up ready to get wet. And if you already know how to surf, the lesson can be adapted to your level, with more experienced surfers heading to different breaks around the area.

There are several departure times available, but we’d go for either the 7 am or 10 am option depending on how early you fancy getting up. The lesson meets right at Batu Bolong Beach, so afterward you can stick around for a swim and watch the surfers who actually know what they’re doing, or head straight for brunch!

Brunch – Kawisari Coffee Farm Shop & Eatery Bali

For brunch, head to Kawisari Coffee Farm Shop & Eatery Bali, which is only about a two-minute walk from Batu Bolong Beach.

The café serves plenty of brunch favorites alongside coffee made with beans from Kawisari Coffee Plantation in East Java, so it’s a great spot to refuel after being out in the water. If you booked the 7 am lesson, we’d definitely come afterward and settle in for a proper brunch. If you choose the 10 am slot, just flip things around and eat first!

Either way, the location makes this one super convenient. You won’t have to trek halfway across Canggu while you’re still sandy and hungry, and we do really love the sweet treats here, especially the dulce de leche cake. 

Late Morning – Get a massage

Getting massages is one of our favorite things to do in Bali! You can never have too many of them, and they’re so much more affordable here than they are in our respective home countries. And after an active morning surfing, a relaxing massage is just the ticket today. 

Lotus Massage Therapy Echo is our go-to in Canggu. It’s a cute, affordable spot, and massages start from just 230K IDR (around $13 USD) for an hour-long massage – perfect!

But if you want to treat yourself to a more polished experience, Spring Spa Canggu is a favorite among Bali’s expat community. It’s a really beautiful spa with an extensive treatment menu, and you feel relaxed the second you step through the door.

Afternoon – Finn’s Beach Club

Finn’s Beach Club is Bali’s most iconic beach club of all, no doubt about it! And after your massage, you should be feeling refreshed and ready for a fun afternoon here.

We absolutely love Finn’s. It’s huge, with multiple pools, swim-up bars, DJs, and plenty of places to lounge around with a cocktail. You can easily spend the whole afternoon here, and that’s exactly what we recommend doing! 

There’s no need to rush, so just rock up when you’re ready. The food is good, so you can grab lunch here and make the most of your beach club time. However, do make sure to book in advance if you want a daybed, booth, or one of the VIP pool pods! There’s usually a minimum spend attached to these, but if you’re planning to eat and drink here anyway, you’ll probably get through it pretty easily – we definitely didn’t struggle.

We have a restaurant suggestion tonight, but if you’re having too much fun to leave, you can always grab dinner here instead. Finn’s is open until midnight, although tomorrow’s cooking class starts fairly early, so don’t go too crazy! 

Dinner – Cocomo Canggu

If you’ve had enough beach time, wind down with a relaxed dinner at Cocomo Canggu. This spot is just a 10-minute Grab or scooter ride from Finn’s Beach Club. Cocomo is pretty laid-back and has an open-air atmosphere, so it’s casual enough to visit without getting cleaned up at your hotel!

They serve Asian-fusion foods, so if you’re tired of Balinese food, you can get some Western classics here. We went for the ribeye sandwich and a burger, and got the chili prawns for appetizers, and it was the perfect amount of food! Cocomo’s is open until 11 pm, so you have plenty of time to get here and linger over a chilled dinner before turning in for the night.

Related Read: Looking for more activities? See our blog for the top things to do in Bali and our personal favorites!

Day 7 – Canggu

Morning – Learn how to cook Balinese food

This morning, head over to Seminyak for this Balinese cooking class. It starts at 8 am and runs until around 1 pm, so make sure you arrive hungry because there is A LOT of food involved! The class is in Seminyak, around a 30-minute drive from Canggu, so you can either hop on your scooter or take a Grab.

We’ve done cooking classes in Bali before and always have such a good time. We already love Balinese food, but it’s very easy to keep ordering the same few favorites at restaurants. A class like this gets you trying different dishes beyond the typical nasi goreng and satay.

You’ll start at a traditional market, where your guide will introduce you to some of the ingredients used in Balinese cooking. Then it’s back to the kitchen to get stuck into making around nine different dishes, including gado gado and betutu chicken.

And when we say get sucked in, we mean it! One thing we loved about doing a cooking class in Bali was actually chopping, grinding, frying, and learning the techniques rather than just standing around watching someone else cook. Plus, you get to eat everything afterward, which is obviously the best bit.

You’ll snack on some of your creations as you go and then sit down to a big lunch at the end. You also get a recipe book to take home, so you can attempt to recreate your favorites once the Bali withdrawal kicks in.

Afternoon – Relax on the beach

After the cooking class, the rest of the afternoon is nice and flexible. You can either stick around in Seminyak for a while or head straight back to Canggu, but either way, we think some beach time is definitely in order!

If you’re staying in Seminyak, Double Six Beach is only about a 10-minute drive from where the class finishes. It’s a long, lively stretch of sand with plenty going on, so it’s a fun place to spend a couple of hours swimming and soaking up the sun. Personally, we like grabbing a colorful bean bag at La Plancha beach bar and enjoying a cold drink here.

Or you can always head back to Canggu now and hit one of the beaches there. Personally, we do think that Seminyak has nicer beaches, but Canggu’s shores have more of a rustic vibe. Just pick whichever beach makes the most sense on the day and enjoy having nowhere else you need to be!

Sunset – Beach or bar 

Sunsets in Canggu are something else, so make sure you’re somewhere with a good view when the sky starts changing! Seminyak has nice sunsets, too, but tonight’s dinner spot is in Canggu, so it makes sense to head back here for the evening.

If you want to keep things simple, head to Canggu Beach or Echo Beach and watch the sun go down from the sand. There’s always a nice buzz around sunset, with surfers still out in the water and plenty of people gathering along the shore. Or, if you’d rather have a cocktail in hand, head to Kama Bar. It’s a great spot to sit back with a drink and take in the view without having to do much of anything.

Dinner – MUDA Restaurant

For dinner, head to MUDA Restaurant, a popular Asian-fusion spot in Canggu. To be honest, this place first caught our eye because it’s super stylish, but the food is what made us keep on coming back! 

The menu mixes flavors from across Asia, so you’ll find everything from bao buns and dumplings to curries and noodle dishes. We like this as a final dinner in Canggu because there’s loads of choice, and after a week of eating your way around Bali, you can just order whatever sounds good.

Day 8 – Canggu to Uluwatu

Morning – Copenhagen Cafe and travel to Uluwatu

Start your morning with breakfast at Copenhagen Cafe before saying goodbye to Canggu. It’s a cool little Nordic-style cafe with minimalist interiors and those very photogenic brunch boards that Bali does so well!

Once you’re fed and caffeinated, head back to your hotel to check out and get ready to make your way to Uluwatu. Just like the journey from Ubud to Canggu, the easiest option is to book a private driver or call a Grab. The drive usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, so it’s not too painful, and you can just sit back and watch the scenery change as you head south.

Once you get to Uluwatu, drop your bags and take a minute to settle in. Then, it’s time to hit the beach. After all, that’s what this part of Bali is all about! 

Midday – Get settled in Uluwatu

Once you arrive in Uluwatu, you’ll want some time to drop your bags and unpack. The two main areas to stay are Bingin and Padang Padang. We stayed around Padang Padang and really liked it because it felt a bit more central for restaurants and getting around.

Once you’re ready to head back out, stop for lunch at Artisan – Uluwatu. It’s a stylish little spot with a calm atmosphere, so it’s a good place to ease into Uluwatu after the drive down from Canggu. Then you can head straight for the beach and start exploring this side of Bali!

Afternoon – Check out Uluwatu’s beaches

Uluwatu is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Bali, with gorgeous white sand and dramatic rock formations. So of course, it’s only right that you spend the afternoon checking one out! Which one you choose really depends on the kind of afternoon you’re after.

Padang Padang is probably the easiest choice for a first visit. It’s iconic and really pretty, plus it’s convenient if you’re staying nearby like we were. It does get pretty busy, but it’s still a must-see, and it works well for today!

Bingin Beach is more laid-back, with fewer crowds. It’s backed by cliffs dotted with cafés and restaurants, so it’s a nice place to spend a few hours and enjoy some food and drink while you’re at it.

Or, for something a little more adventurous, head to Uluwatu Beach. Getting down here takes a bit more effort (which is to say that there are a lot of stairs), but it’s stunning. The dramatic cliffs and bright blue water are incredibly beautiful, so we think it’s worth the additional cardio!

Sunset – Single Fin

After the beach, head to Single Fin for sunset. This is one of Uluwatu’s classic cliffside spots, and once you see the view, you’ll understand why! In fact, it’s probably the area’s most iconic beach bar. If you tell someone you went to Uluwatu, they’ll immediately ask you if you went to Single Fin! 

The reason for that is that the bar sits high above the ocean, so the views here are absolutely incredible – especially at sunset! We suggest arriving well before sunset as it does get busy. Don’t worry, the cocktail menu will definitely keep you busy, and this place always has a great atmosphere, so spending a few hours here is really no hardship!

Dinner – ULU Garden

After sunset, walk about 10 minutes over to ULU Garden for dinner.

This is a really pretty open-air spot with lots of greenery, and it’s very laid-back, so it’s a nice change of pace after the buzz of Single Fin. The menu is seasonal and offers a contemporary take on Indonesian classics, and it also features plenty of seafood. We shared the snapper and the Ulu fresh rolls, and both were really good! 

It is also a fun place to spend your evening because they usually have live music. Check their website to see what’s on, but different nights usually have different themes. Some nights are pop, while other nights you’ll hear soul or reggae. 

Where to Stay in Uluwatu

I think that Uluwatu is the most beautiful coastal area in Bali, with dramatic cliffs, bright blue waters, and gorgeous golden shores. Here are a few hotel recommendations for a range of budgets and travel types:

Luxury – $$$

Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu is a luxurious resort set atop the cliffs with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. The property features multiple swimming pools, a spa, and several dining options, including beachfront restaurants. Rooms typically cost between $220 and $850 USD per night and can be booked on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

Terra Cottages Bali offers a charming stay that’s full of character. This property features lush gardens and offers direct beach access, as well as daily breakfast.  Rooms generally range from $195 to $350 USD per night and can be reserved in advance here!

Budget – $

Gravity Eco Boutique Hotel is a sustainable and stylish choice in Uluwatu. It was designed with eco-conscious travelers in mind, and its minimalist-chic bungalows really make you feel connected to nature. Expect to pay around $100+ USD per night and book your stay here!

Day 9 – Uluwatu

Breakfast – Suka Uluwatu

We loved Suka in Ubud so much that we had to try the Uluwatu location too! Head to Suka Uluwatu for breakfast before heading out to Melasti Beach.

The menu has the same kind of colorful brunch dishes we loved in Ubud, so it’s ideal for fueling up before a morning on the beach. Smoothie bowls are always hard to resist (when in Bali, right?), but their pancakes are also great if you want something a bit more substantial. Once you’re done, hop on your scooter or grab a ride and make your way down to Melasti Beach.

Morning – Head to Melasti Beach 

After breakfast, make your way to Melasti Beach, which is about a 20- to 30-minute ride from Uluwatu. We loved the drive down here because the road winds through the cliffs and the views get better and better as you approach the coast. If you’ve rented a scooter, this is a gorgeous ride, but you can also just call a Grab if you’d rather not drive yourself!

Entry is usually around 10,000 to 15,000 IDR per adult ($0.50 – $0.90 USD), which is well worth it for such an idyllic spot. We spent a very happy few hours swimming and lounging in the sun here! 

Lunch – Uma Beach House

When you get hungry, head to Uma Beach House for some light local fare. It’s a quick walk from Melasti Beach, and the setting is absolutely gorgeous. It offers ocean views and even has an infinity pool, which guests are welcome to use! Day beds and cabanas have a minimum spend, but you don’t need to commit to one to take a quick dip before lunch. 

Grab a table and order whatever you fancy. We went for sushi, but the menu is varied, with tacos, barbecue skewers, and more on offer. Once you’ve had your fill, head back to Uluwatu and get cleaned up at your hotel before this evening’s tour.

Afternoon/Evening – Uluwatu sunset tour and fire dance

After lunch, head back to your hotel to freshen up because this afternoon you’re joining this Uluwatu sunset tour. This is a private tour, and pickup is included from Uluwatu, usually at around 3 pm, although your driver will message you with an exact time.

Your first stop is Uluwatu Temple, which sits right on the edge of a huge cliff overlooking the ocean. The views are incredible, but do keep an eye on your sunglasses and phone because the monkeys here are VERY cheeky and have been known to snatch things!

Then it’s time for the famous Kecak and Fire Dance. Over 50 performers sit in a circle chanting “cak, cak, cak” while scenes from the Ramayana epic are acted out around them. It would be an amazing spectacle to watch anywhere, but watching it at a clifftop temple as the sun sets is really as dramatic as it gets. This is an iconic Bali experience that you just can’t miss! 

After the performance, your driver will take you to Jimbaran Beach for dinner. This area is known for having the best seafood on the island, and you’ll tuck into it by candlelight under the stars, which is a pretty dreamy way to end the day if you ask us!

We recommend booking the option that includes the temple entrance, Kecak tickets, and seafood dinner so everything is sorted for you. With thousands of 5-star reviews, this is easily one of the most popular ways to experience Uluwatu Temple at sunset. 

Day 10 – Uluwatu/Depart

If you’re flying out this morning, then today is simply a departure day. The airport is about an hour from Uluwatu, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get there. But if your flight isn’t until later, or you’re not leaving until tomorrow, you’ve got time for one last Bali adventure!

Morning – Your choice!

You’ve got a few different ways to spend your final morning in Bali, so just go with whatever you’re in the mood for. You could squeeze in some more sunshine at the beach or soak up one last bit of culture, or do what we usually do and relax ahead of your flight with a massage! 

• Visit Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park – If you’ve got plenty of time and want to squeeze in a little more culture, we think that this cultural park is worth a visit. The park is home to the enormous Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue, as well as lots of Balinese architecture and cultural performances, so there’s plenty to see as you wander around. It’s definitely the most sightseeing-heavy option on this list, so we’d save this one for a later flight or a full day.

• Hit the spa – If there was ever a time for one last Balinese massage, this is it! We got spa treatments constantly while we were staying in Uluwatu because they were so affordable. Esthetic Salon & Beauty Care Uluwatu was one of our go-to spots because it was super affordable, while Spring Spa Uluwatu is more upscale – it’s the sister branch of the spa Canggu that we recommended earlier in this post!

• Enjoy some more beach time – Not ready to say goodbye to Bali’s beaches yet? We don’t blame you! Head back to whichever Uluwatu beach you didn’t manage to visit earlier in the trip for one last swim. 

Afternoon – Check out Jimbaran

If you’ve got an evening flight out of Bali, spend your final afternoon in Jimbaran. It sits just south of the airport and is actually on the way there from Uluwatu, so it’s a handy place to stop. 

You can head to the golden Jimbaran Beach for a final walk along the sand and maybe stop at a beach bar or cafe to enjoy the last of the ocean views, and if you’ve got time for dinner, head to a seafood restaurant along Jimbaran Bay. This area is celebrated for its seafood, and we love Bawang Merah Beachfront Restaurant for both its amazing food and sunset views. 

Just keep an eye on the time because, sadly, at some point you really do have to go to the airport – sob! 

Related Read: See our Where to Stay in Bali guide for a full breakdown of the best areas and hotels!

Thanks for reading!

Whether you have one week or a full 10 days, this itinerary will show you the best of Bali! We love this laid-back island and have spent a lot of time exploring, working, and living in various spots, so we made sure to include our absolute favorite places and activities for your trip.

Before you take off, see the rest of our Asia blogs! We have a ton of resources to help you plan your trip, or if your travels take you further, I’ll leave some related blogs below to inspire your next destination. Cheers!

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