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Hey there, fellow travelers! If you’re reading this, you’re probably planning a trip to Bali (or at least dreaming about it), and let me tell you – you’re in for an incredible adventure. Bali is a paradise filled with stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and a vibrant culture that will leave you wanting more. In the last 2 years I recently spent 2 weeks, TWICE, on this beautiful island, and I’ve put together the ultimate Bali 10 days itinerary to help you make the most of your time there. From exploring ancient temples to relaxing on the beach, this ultimate Bali 10 days itinerary covers it all. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Bali!
If you have 2 weeks to spare, I have written also 14 Days Itinerary.
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! If you haven’t yet, check out my post on secret hacks to save up to 30% on long-haul flights to Bali. After a long flight, the first day is all about settling in and relaxing. Check into your accommodation, take a leisurely stroll around the area, and enjoy your first Balinese meal. If you eat pork, I highly recommend trying Babi Guling to kick off your culinary journey.

Babi Guling is a traditional Balinese dish that features a whole roasted pig. The pig is typically marinated with a blend of spices such as turmeric, coriander, lemongrass, garlic, and various other herbs, giving it a distinctive and flavourful taste. It is then spit-roasted over an open fire, resulting in crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. In Bali, Babi Guling is often served with rice, vegetables, and a variety of sambals (Indonesian chili sauces).
For a special occasion or if you’re on a honeymoon, you should definitely check out Koral Restaurant. Bali is perfect for a luxury honeymoon on a budget! Located at the Apurva Kempinski Bali, Koral offers a unique dining experience where you can enjoy your meal surrounded by large aquarium walls filled with colorful fish and marine life. The interior feels like a luxurious underwater cave, creating a calm and magical atmosphere.
The menu at Koral combines traditional Indonesian flavors with modern cooking techniques, using high-quality and sustainably sourced ingredients. This spot is ideal for anniversaries, romantic dinners, or celebrations thanks to its unique setting and top-notch service. Plus, Koral focuses on sustainability and environmental awareness, so you can feel good about your dining choices. Dining at Koral is not just about the food; it’s about experiencing incredible cuisine in a captivating underwater world.

Day 2: Uluwatu and Kecak Dance
Rest in the morning, especially if you had a long haul flight. Enjoy your lie in, breakfast in peace in the hotel. Then in the afternoon, head to Uluwatu Temple to explore the stunning cliffs. Perched on a cliff, Uluwatu Temple offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Stay for the Kecak dance performance at sunset—it’s a wonderful cultural experience you won’t forget. The combination of the dramatic dance, the chanting, and the sunset backdrop is simply magical.
Be sure to get your Uluwatu and Kecak Dance ticket in advance for only $10. Even better, opt for the ticket that includes transfers. Unless you’re staying in Uluwatu, it can be quite a trek from areas like Kuta or Jimbaran where most hotels are located. The Uluwatu area gets really crowded and traffic jams are common after the Kecak dance, making it difficult to find a taxi or avoid paying a hefty premium. Arranging your transfer in advance is definitely the best option.

Kecak dance in Uluwatu
Day 3: Watersports and Beach Day
What’s Bali without watersports? Tanjung Benoa is where you want to go for some watersports in Bali. Try jet skiing, parasailing, or banana boating. Watersports will typically happen in the morning, because in the afternoon the water level is low. When no boat can leave, then you can’t really do parasailing or a whole host of other activities. 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. It’s not too far from Tanjung Benoa but it’s not the same.
After the excitement, relax on one of Bali’s beautiful beaches, especially if you are feeling jet-lagged. Nusa Dua and Jimbaran have great spots with soft sands and clear waters. There’s nothing quite like lounging on the beach with a good book and refreshing coconut water.

Day 4: Go to Ubud
Have a slow morning, then make your way to Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali. The drive itself is picturesque, with lush rice paddies and quaint villages along the way. Ensure you time it correctly and not during rush hour though, because the traffic can be terrible. Avoid lunch time on Fridays where people go to pray in the mosque.
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. Take some time to rest, because the next 2 days are absolutely jam-packed with activities!

Day 5: 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. Also, if you only have 10 days, you don’t have the time to visit all these on different days anyways, so best to have someone organise the trip.

Day 6: 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 7: 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 8: Go Back to the South + Beach
That’s it for Ubud, unfortunately. 10 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. Traffic in Bali can be unpredictable, so best not to travel to the airport straight from Ubud if you can help it. 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 9: Massage and/or Class
After days of adventure and exploration, it’s time to treat yourself to some well-deserved relaxation. Start your day with a luxurious Balinese massage. Bali is famous for its spas, and you’ll find plenty of options ranging from high-end resorts to cozy local spots. A traditional Balinese massage uses a combination of gentle stretches, acupressure, and aromatherapy oils to stimulate the flow of blood, oxygen, and energy around your body. It’s the perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate, leaving you refreshed and ready to enjoy your last days on the island. Don’t underestimate the strength of tiny Indonesian women – they have the strongest fingers in the world! Tell them if you’re having pain and would like less pressure, or risk a bruise the next day.
Or, if you prefer, dive into the culinary side of Bali by taking a cooking class with locals in Canggu. This is a fantastic way to learn about Balinese culture and cuisine firsthand. The class starts with a visit to a local market where you’ll pick fresh ingredients. Then, you’ll head to a traditional Balinese kitchen to learn how to prepare and cook a variety of authentic dishes such as Nasi Goreng, Satay, and Sambal. It’s a fun and interactive experience, and the best part is enjoying the delicious meal you’ve cooked yourself. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this cooking class in Canggu is a great way to end your day on a high note.
Day 10: 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. Or maybe book a massage in the morning, if you had the cooking class on day 9 and if you are leaving in the evening. You’ll be refreshed and ready for a flight back home!
Conclusion
And that’s a wrap on my ultimate 10 days Bali itinerary! I hope this guide helps you make the most of your time on this beautiful island. From exploring ancient temples and stunning landscapes to diving into thrilling adventures and indulging in relaxation, Bali truly has something for everyone.
Remember, the best part of any trip is the memories you make and the experiences you cherish. So go ahead, follow this itinerary or mix it up to suit your own pace and interests. Bali is an incredible destination that will capture your heart and leave you wanting more. Enjoy your journey, and don’t forget to share your own Bali stories and tips when you return! Safe travels!
Some great tips! Bali is on my list.
Hiking up Mount Batur for sunrise would be great! I think I’d want to spend a week around Ubud to explore all of the activities in the area.
Love your comment about the tiny Indonesian woman and their strong fingers. I would definitely be first in line for a massage! Sounds heavenly.
I went to Bali earlier this year and def agree with your suggestions! Such a fun place.
What fun! Thanks for the tips!
Hello! Bali is on my top list! Thanks for sharing information!
Great post. You have covered a wide range of things to do in Bali. It is such a beautiful place and your photos do it justice.
Love this 10-day itinerary to explore Bali. There truly is something for everyone. Definitely on my list to visit.
I’m in the process of planning a trip to Bali so this is very timely. Adding Ubud to the list of places now.