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Bali is a paradise that offers a blend of culture, adventure, relaxation, and stunning landscapes. Having spent two incredible weeks there, TWICE, I’ve crafted the perfect 14-day itinerary to help you make the most of your time on this beautiful island. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures, cultural experiences, or pure relaxation, Bali has it all.
I’ve also written the ultimate guide on where to stay in Bali, which covers Nusa Dua and Ubud!
Day 1: Arrive + Find Food
Touch down in Bali and let the adventure begin! I hope you did read my post on my secret hack to reduce ticket cost on long haul flights to Bali for up to 30%! After a long flight, the first day is all about settling in and relaxing. Check into your accommodation, maybe take a stroll around the nearby area, and enjoy your first Balinese meal. I recommend trying Babi Guling, if you eat pork, to kick off your culinary journey.
Babi guling is a traditional Balinese dish that consists of a whole roasted pig. The pig is typically marinated with a mixture of spices including turmeric, coriander, lemongrass, garlic, and various other herbs, giving it a distinctive and flavourful taste. The pig is then spit-roasted over an open fire, which results in a crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. In Bali, babi guling is often served with rice, vegetables, and a variety of sambals (Indonesian chili sauce).
If you are feeling fancy or coming for a honeymoon, you could always visit Koral Restaurant. (Bali is a great place to have a luxury honeymoon on a budget!) Koral Restaurant in Bali, at the Apurva Kempinski Bali, offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Imagine enjoying a delicious meal while being surrounded by large aquarium walls filled with colourful fish and marine life. The restaurant’s interior feels like a luxurious underwater cave, making the atmosphere calm and magical. The menu combines traditional Indonesian flavours with modern cooking techniques, using high-quality and sustainably sourced ingredients.
This place is perfect for special occasions like anniversaries, romantic dinners, or celebrations because of its unique setting and top-notch service. Koral also focuses on sustainability and environmental awareness, so you can feel good about your dining choices. Eating at Koral isn’t just about the food; it’s about experiencing amazing cuisine in a captivating, underwater world.
Day 2: Uluwatu and Kecak Dance
Head to Uluwatu Temple to explore the stunning cliffs and beautiful beaches. The Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff, offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Stay for the Kecak dance performance at sunset—it’s a mesmerizing cultural experience you won’t forget. The combination of the dramatic dance, the chanting, and the sunset backdrop is simply magical.
Get your Uluwatu and Kecak Dance ticket in advance for only US$10. Or better still, click the option to include transfers. Unless you live in Uluwatu, it is quite a distance away from Kuta, Jimbaran area where most hotels are. Uluwatu area gets really crowded and jammed with traffic after the Kecak dance, so most taxi drivers wont want to pick you up, or charge you a crazy premium. Hence the best option is to arrange your transfer in advance.
Day 3: Watersports and Beach Day
Tanjung Benoa is where you want to go for some watersports in Bali. Try jet skiing, parasailing, or banana boating. It will typically happen in the morning, because in the afternoon the water level is low, so no boat can leave. One thing I want to recommend is to skip Turtle Island if they try to offer you that. The turtles are not kept in good condition, and I personally don’t want to encourage people to treat animals poorly. The only legitimate Turtle Conservation place in Bali is in Serangan Island, which is quite close to Tanjung Benoa but it’s different.
After the excitement, relax on one of Bali’s beautiful beaches, especially if you are feeling jet-lagged. Nusa Dua is a great spot with its soft sands and clear waters. There’s nothing quite like lounging on the beach with a good book and a refreshing coconut drink.
Day 4: Tanah Lot
Visit the iconic Tanah Lot Temple, one of Bali’s most famous landmarks. Situated on a rock formation off the coast, this temple is particularly stunning during sunset. Spend the day exploring the surrounding area, and don’t forget to take lots of photos—the scenery is breathtaking. Similar to Uluwatu, it’s a little out there from the main South Bali areas, so it’s worth it to arrange transfers beforehand. This guided tour is not a bad idea either especially that pick up can be included.
Day 5: Go to Ubud
Travel to Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali. The drive itself is picturesque, with lush rice paddies and quaint villages along the way. Once in Ubud, settle into your accommodation and take a leisurely walk around town. Hopefully you’ve read my Bali accommodation guide, and chose one of the super nice accommodation near town which is still budget-friendly. Ubud is known for its artisanal shops, art galleries, and vibrant market. It’s a great place to pick up unique souvenirs.
Day 6: Ubud One-Day Tour
Spend a full day exploring the best of Ubud with this all-inclusive tour, including lunch if you choose. (I would – it makes sense and saves me scrambling for food!) Start your adventure at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where you’ll meet playful monkeys and explore ancient temples. Next, enjoy a scenic walk through the famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces, taking in the lush green landscapes. After that, visit the historic Ubud Palace and marvel at the beautiful Saraswati Temple nearby. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Tegenungan Waterfall, a refreshing and picturesque spot. This tour covers all the highlights and ensures you experience the charm of Ubud. These places, especially the Tegallalang Rice Terrace and Tegenungan Waterfall, need car transport. Hence it is best to take all-inclusive tours so you don’t spend so much time working out the logistics and transport.
Day 7: Massage and Classes
After several days of exploring, it’s time to relax and rejuvenate. Book a traditional Balinese massage at one of Ubud’s renowned spas. The lunch include Bebek Tepi Sawah, which I can tell you is a famous duck place in Bali but even beyond Bali. You can also join a yoga class or a cooking class to learn how to make some delicious Balinese dishes. It’s a perfect way to unwind and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Day 8: Cycling Tour through Rice Fields and Bamboo Forest
Explore the countryside around Ubud on a cycling tour. You’ll ride through picturesque villages, lush rice fields, and stunning landscapes. It’s a fantastic way to see a different side of Bali and interact with the friendly locals. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the views are absolutely stunning. I really enjoyed this tour from Bali Hai Tour, I did it again the second time I came to Bali. The route includes a bamboo forest, and we had time to visit Penglipuran Village, which is quite a traditional village.
Day 9: Batur and Tirta Empul
If you are a morning person, start your day early with a trek up Mount Batur to watch the sunrise with this tour. The hike is challenging but incredibly rewarding, with panoramic views of the volcano and surrounding landscape. Start your early morning journey hiking up Mount Batur, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the sunrise over the volcanic landscape. The trek is guided, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience as you ascend in the pre-dawn hours. Once at the summit, enjoy a light breakfast while soaking in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Batur. This tour offers an unforgettable combination of physical challenge and natural beauty, perfect for those seeking an adventurous and awe-inspiring start to their day. You’ll then enjoy the natural hot spring and visit coffee plantation afterwards.
I am definitely nowhere as dedicated, so I just went to the hot springs and chill there with this all inclusive tour that includes optional lunch. Instead of hiking up in the dark, we soaked in the rejuvenating Batur Hot Springs, where you can relax in the natural thermal waters with stunning views of Lake Batur. Next, visit the picturesque Taman Sari Waterfall, a hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery. We had our refreshing dip there, and the water is definitely cleaner than Tegenungan. I had an allergy reaction in Tegenungan, but not in Taman Sari. Then, we head to the sacred Tirta Empul Temple, known for its holy spring water where you can participate in traditional purification rituals. This tour offers a perfect blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and cultural experiences, ensuring a memorable day in Kintamani.
Day 10: Lempuyang Temple
Discover the cultural gems of Bali on our Mother Temple and Gates of Heaven tour. Start off at the famous Lempuyang Temple, where you can snap stunning photos at the Gates of Heaven with Mount Agung in the background. Then, soak in the serene vibes and stunning architecture of Besakih Temple, Bali’s biggest and most sacred Hindu temple, also known as the Mother Temple. Our friendly guides will share fascinating stories and insights about these sacred spots, making this full-day tour an awesome blend of natural beauty and spiritual exploration.
Day 11: Ayung River Rafting + ATV Ride
Experience an action-packed day in Bali with our Ubud Gorilla Face ATV and Ayung River Rafting tour! Kickstart your adventure by tearing through muddy trails and scenic landscapes on an ATV ride to Gorilla Face rock formation. Then, switch gears as you conquer the thrilling rapids of the Ayung River during an exhilarating rafting session. The rapids are exciting but manageable for beginners, and the surrounding scenery is lush and beautiful. It’s a thrilling way to experience Bali’s natural beauty from a different perspective. Refuel with a delicious lunch served riverside before concluding your day full of adrenaline and unforgettable memories.
Day 12: Go Back to the South
That’s it for Ubud, unfortunately. 14 days is not enough to explore Bali fully, but you’ve got most of it. Head back to the southern part of Bali for the final days of your trip for a change in scenery. Also, it’s much closer to the airport. Spend your afternoon relaxing at your accommodation or exploring the nearby beaches. Seminyak and Kuta are great options for their lively atmosphere and variety of restaurants and shops.
Day 13: Waterbom Bali
Spend your last full day in Bali having fun at Waterbom Bali, one of Asia’s best water parks. With a variety of slides and pools, it’s a great place for both kids and adults to enjoy. After a day of excitement, treat yourself to a nice dinner at one of Bali’s many excellent restaurants. Maybe another Babi Guling, while you’re in Bali. Or Bebek Tepi Sawah for some crispy duck?
Day 14: Go Home
It’s time to say goodbye to Bali. Depending on your flight time, you might have a few hours for some last-minute shopping or a final walk on the beach. Reflect on the amazing experiences you’ve had as you head to the airport.
Conclusion
Bali is an island that captures the heart of every traveller. With its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, it’s a destination you’ll want to return to again and again. This 14-day itinerary offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, ensuring you experience the best of Bali. Happy travels!
Wow! What a great itinerary! I love the mix of activities and really appreciate that each day isn’t so packed full of things to do that you can’t really enjoy any of it.
The cycle tour looks like a great way to slow down and interact with locals.
Excellent itinerary, it is a great mix of activities with time to really appreciate each of them. Thanks!
I have to admit, living in Australia, I still haven’t visited Bali. There is so much to see there and this is a great itinerary. Thanks for the reminder that there is such a great place to visit so close to my doorstep.
I was only in Bali for a day and really enjoyed touring around. I can see from your article that there is a lot I missed. I do plan on returning, though
I visited Bali for a week or so around 10 years ago, and I loved it!! I definitely feel inspired to go back and see even more of it after reading your post, thanks for this great itinerary!
You’ve really shown me that there is A LOT more to Bali than just beautiful pictures. Absolutely awesome itinerary – so many thing to do!