Nuts and Bolts: Travel Tips for Visiting Ubud, Bali
- Rand Blimes
- May 27
- 12 min read
Updated: May 29
Nuts and Bolts posts give you the practical information you need, but without stripping away the humor, mishaps, and little victories that make real travel what it is. These aren’t just guides. They’re how we actually did it—mistakes, triumphs, and all.
This page has some travel tips for visiting Ubud, Bali, to aid in planning your own trip. I travel mainly with my wife, and we love to simply wander and eat when we explore a new place. We were in Ubud in July, 2022. If your trip to Ubud is significantly longer/shorter/with a different focus, you may have a very different experience.
Welcome… to Ubud!
Congratulations on making it to Ubud, the spiritual heartbeat of Bali! A place where your morning yoga session isn't complete until you’ve aligned your third eye with your Instagram grid. Where breakfast is a $12 organic jackfruit smoothie bowl, sustainably harvested by blind monks, blended by moonlight, and garnished with a single, ethically sourced goji berry.
Spend your day wandering barefoot through boutique shops selling artisanal incense, hand-woven sarongs, and mystical crystals with names like “soul whisperer.” Sip your vegan turmeric oatmilk latte in a café where every cushion has its own aura. Then head off for some deep, meaningful cultural appreciation—led by a New Zealander named Skylar who’s been in Bali for three weeks and is totally tapped into its ancient traditions.
And just when you think your soul can’t get any more elevated, treat yourself to an evening performance—where tourists shell out triple the local wage for front-row seats to the “authentic” Balinese experience™... performed with LED lighting and sponsored by a boutique hotel.
Welcome… to Ubud. Where enlightenment is always just one overpriced massage away.
Ubud seems like it was designed by someone determined to trigger me. It’s rare to find so much travel-based virtue signaling crammed into such a small space. I was kind of primed to hate it.
But I didn’t. I kind of loved it.
Yes, Ubud is absolutely all those things I joked about in the opening. But it’s also friendly locals, phenomenal food, and quiet rice terraces you can walk into straight from town.
We booked a night tour to see fireflies and ended up in our guide’s family compound, chatting with his kids and his grandmother. And once you meet a man’s grandmother, you’re friends—by international law.
Ubud also offers easy access to waterfalls, archaeological sites, and—at the center of it all—a sacred monkey forest.
Sacred. Monkey. Forest.
So, without irony: congratulations. You made it to Ubud!
Travel Tips for Visiting Ubud: Weather
Ubud has two seasons: wet and dry. The dry season runs from April to October, with June through August offering the most pleasant mix of sunshine, cooler temperatures, and manageable humidity—perfect for wandering rice terraces or dodging monkeys in the forest. This is also peak tourist season, so expect a bit more company.
The wet season spans November to March, with January and February bringing the heaviest rains. But don’t write it off entirely—showers often come in short bursts, and the lush green scenery is at its most vibrant. Plus, crowds thin out, prices drop, and the waterfalls are in full, glorious flow.
In short: come during dry season for predictability; wet season for mood and magic.
Getting to Ubud
Ubud doesn’t have an airport, so your journey starts with a flight into Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) near Denpasar, Bali’s main entry point. From there, Ubud is about a 1.5–2 hour drive, depending on traffic—which can be extremely Bali.
The easiest way to get there is to pre-book a driver, which many hotels in Ubud can arrange for you, or hire one at the airport (expect to pay around 300,000–400,000 IDR or $20–$30 USD). Grab and Gojek, the ride-sharing apps, sometimes work from the airport but are not always allowed to pick up due to the local taxi mafia.
Public transportation to Ubud is practically nonexistent, so unless you’re planning to rent a scooter and ride into town yourself (not for the faint of heart), a private car is the way to go.
Getting Around Ubud
Ubud’s town center is compact and walkable, with most of the restaurants, shops, markets, and cafes clustered near the main road. If your hotel is located in the heart of town, you’ll be able to reach most things on foot.
That said, many hotels and resorts are located on the outskirts of Ubud, tucked away in rice fields or perched above river valleys. Fortunately, most of these places offer complimentary shuttles or on-demand rides into the town center. Just check the schedule or ask the front desk.
Using Grab or Gojek can be hit or miss in Ubud. Some areas—especially near hotels and attractions—are controlled by the local taxi mafia, who may block app-based pickups. However, once you’re in town, it's usually easy to hail a ride or negotiate a fare with a local driver.
Better yet, if you find a driver you like, they’ll almost certainly give you their WhatsApp number. You can then arrange pick-ups or even full-day trips with them directly. This is one of the easiest and most flexible ways to get around Ubud and the surrounding countryside.
Renting a Scooter
Renting a scooter is one of the most popular ways to explore Ubud and its surroundings, and for good reason. The freedom to zip down scenic backroads, pop into tiny warungs, and access waterfalls and temples tucked into the hills is hard to beat.
But be warned: Bali’s roads are no joke. Every year, tourists are injured (sometimes seriously) in scooter accidents—often because they’ve never driven one before and assume it’ll be fine.
If you’re new to scooters, Bali is not the place to learn. The combination of narrow roads, steep hills, fast traffic, roaming dogs, and relaxed traffic laws can quickly overwhelm even confident drivers.
However, if you already have experience, international travel insurance that covers scooters, and a valid license, and if you are feeling lucky, then a scooter is a fantastic and budget-friendly way to get around. Helmets are a must, and it’s wise to drive conservatively—especially around tourist-heavy areas or during rainstorms.
In short: Scooters are awesome—if you know what you’re doing. If not, stick to cars. Your bones will thank you.
Sleeping in Ubud for the Splurging Budget Conscious Traveler
My wife and I usually lean toward simple, budget-friendly accommodations. We’re not wowed by a fancy lobby or an artisanal soap selection. Give us a good location and we’re happy to skip the curated decor. But when I started researching hotels in Bali, something surprising popped up: prices for high-end places had plummeted. In the wake of COVID, many hotels were offering rooms at a fraction of their normal cost. Properties that once cost $200+ per night were going for $50.
We didn’t go full luxury, but we splurged a little more than usual and booked the Puri Sebali Resort, just outside of Ubud. Our original room had a view of lush rice terraces and access to a beautiful pool—already a win in our book. But just after we checked in, the hotel messaged us via WhatsApp: they were opening a new wing and offered us a free upgrade to a private suite with its own balcony pool, a freestanding tub, and soaring ceilings.
Of course we said yes.
But the real highlight wasn’t the architecture. It was the staff—a team of warm, welcoming, mostly young Balinese who took incredible care of us. One day, after a bizarre ATM blackout across Ubud left us low on cash, the hotel staff assured us that if things didn’t clear up, they’d figure out how to get us money. (The machines were all working again the next morning.) They struck the perfect balance: we felt looked after without ever feeling smothered.
They also drove us into town each day, told us stories, asked about our lives, and made us laugh. That kind of hospitality is common across Bali—but in Ubud, it truly shined.
When we first started traveling, we avoided fancy hotels out of necessity. Now, with more flexibility, we still often steer clear—not because we can’t afford them, but because we don’t want to insulate ourselves from the places we came to experience. But in Ubud, somehow, we got the nice room without the bubble. We got the elegance without the detachment. We got the Bali we came for… from the comfort of our balcony pool.
Where to Eat
The food scene in Ubud is quietly spectacular. Sure, there's fine dining—Locavore NXT frequently ranks among Asia’s best restaurants—but what really stood out to us was the variety, quality, and charm of more casual local eateries. Whether you're looking for an upscale tasting menu or a heaping plate of babi guling, Ubud delivers. Here are some of our favorites:
Bebek Bengil ("Dirty Duck Diner") – This Ubud institution is famous for its crispy fried duck, served in a tranquil garden setting just off the Monkey Forest Road.
Nasi Ayam Kedewatan Ibu Mangku – Legendary for nasi ayam, a Balinese-style chicken rice dish. There are several branches, but the original location north of Ubud has the most charm. If you are feeling beat, you can just use Grab Eats to get nasi ayam delivered to your hotel.
Nasi Ayam Betutu Kedewatan Ibu Adnyani – Another strong contender in the nasi ayam game. The betutu (spiced slow-cooked chicken) here is full of flavor and heat.
Naughty Nuri’s Ubud – Known for its ribs and strong cocktails, Naughty Nuri’s is a crowd favorite. Our first meal in Ubud was here, and it was a hit.
Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka 3 – Possibly the most famous spot in Bali for babi guling (roast suckling pig). Go early—they open at 11 and are often sold out by 3 p.m.
Warung Biah Biah – A cozy and inexpensive warung in central Ubud. Great for trying Balinese small plates in a casual setting.
Waroeng Bernadette – This stylish spot makes a killer rendang, one of Indonesia’s most iconic and delicious dishes. Rich, spicy, and fall-apart tender.
Bebek Tepi Sawah Restaurant Ubud – Another great place for duck, set amid peaceful rice paddies. A bit more upscale, with great ambiance.
Bale Udang Mang Engking Ubud – A fun experience: you eat on bamboo pavilions suspended over a koi pond. Specializes in prawns and freshwater shrimp dishes.
Pasar Senggol (Gianyar) – About 20 minutes from Ubud, this night market is the place to go if you want a local street food vibe. Expect everything from satay to sweets at affordable prices.
From high-end creativity to humble warungs, Ubud is a great place to eat your way through Bali—one crispy duck or sambal-smothered plate at a time.
What To Do in Ubud
Ubud isn’t a place you visit for one or two bucket-list attractions. It’s a place you settle into—a mix of casual walks, monkey encounters, spiritual spaces, and artful experiences. Still, there are some real highlights worth building your days around.
In Town
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s chaotic. And yes, it’s crawling with monkeys. But it’s also a genuinely beautiful forest filled with mossy statues, twisting roots, and little stone bridges. Do not wear glasses or carry loose items—these monkeys are clever thieves with a PhD in backpack zippers. I speak from experience (and from the dizziness of trying to spin a monkey off my shoulders).
Walk the Rice Fields
Just a short walk from the main road, you’ll find yourself in peaceful green rice fields. It’s shockingly tranquil considering how close it is to the crowds and motorbikes. If you’re lucky, you’ll have the place nearly to yourself. And you are more than likely to stumble onto cute little cafes set among the fields. A great way to cap off your walk.
Campuhan Ridge Walk
This easy scenic trail offers a nice break from the bustle of Ubud’s main streets. Go early in the morning or near sunset for cooler temps and golden light. It’s a gentle walk through hills and tall grass, with sweeping views and a breeze if you're lucky.
Ubud Palace
Right in the heart of town, the palace isn’t huge, but its architecture is ornate and photogenic. It’s an easy stop while exploring Ubud—and in the evening, it often hosts traditional Balinese dance performances.
See a Traditional Dance Performance
Whether at the palace or another venue, these performances are a highlight of any trip to Bali. The costumes, live gamelan music, and stylized movements are hypnotic. It’s touristy, sure—but still mostly worth it.
Ubud Art Market
Across the street from the palace, this lively bazaar is full of sarongs, carvings, and hand-crafted souvenirs. It's chaotic and crowded, but fun to wander. Haggling is expected, so warm up those negotiation skills.
Neka Art Museum
For something quieter, head here. It features a thoughtful collection of Balinese and Indonesian art, and makes for a lovely mid-day escape from the heat and crowds.
Easy Day Trips from Ubud
Tegallalang Rice Terraces
These iconic stepped paddies are a short drive from town. They’re more crowded than the in-town fields, but undeniably beautiful—especially in early morning light. Take small bills for the various entry fees, and bring a drone if you have one. We contacted an Uber driver we had used previously and arranged for him to pick us up a little before dawn. We had the place to ourselves.
Gunung Kawi
Not far from Tegallalang, this ancient temple complex is set in a lush river valley. It’s peaceful, scenic, and atmospheric, and pairs perfectly with the rice terraces for a half-day adventure.
Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
A historic site featuring a demon-faced stone entrance, meditation caves, and fountains. Combine it with a trip to nearby Kanto Lampo Waterfall, a beautiful cascade popular with Instagrammers. Go early to beat the crowds—and the tripods.
Other Waterfalls Near Ubud
If you want to chase waterfalls, Ubud is a solid base. In addition to Kanto Lampo, you can also check out Tibumana, Tegenungan, and Tukad Cepung—each offering a slightly different atmosphere and crowd level. Rent a scooter or hire a driver for the day and make a waterfall loop.
Spa and Wellness in Ubud
If Ubud were a scented candle, it would smell like lemongrass, sandalwood, and the vague notion of spiritual awakening. Whether you want a full-blown wellness retreat or just an hour of massage-induced bliss, Ubud has you covered.
Massages are everywhere, from $10 neighborhood joints to high-end spa experiences that still feel like a deal.
Flower baths are also a thing. Yes, they’re wildly photogenic and a little absurd. Yes, you should absolutely do one if this seems like your thing. Especially after a day of sweaty hiking.
For yoga lovers, Ubud is Mecca. Try Yoga Barn if you're into the scene (huge, popular, very international), or Radiantly Alive if you want something a bit more grounded. Or skip the mat entirely and let your wellness come in the form of mango juice and an afternoon nap. No judgment.
Cultural Etiquette in Ubud
Ubud is deeply spiritual, and it’s worth showing a little respect for the culture that makes the place so remarkable. Just a few quick notes for travelers:
Dress modestly when visiting temples. Shoulders and knees covered. Many places provide sarongs at the entrance (for both men and women).
Don’t touch people’s heads. It’s considered disrespectful—even to kids.
Be mindful of canang sari—the daily offerings in little woven trays you’ll see on sidewalks, temple steps, and shop entrances. They’re not trash, so don’t kick them, step on them, or trip over them.
None of this is difficult, but it does help you travel like a respectful human.
Evenings in Ubud: Culture Over Clubbing
Let’s set expectations: Ubud is not where you go for beach bars and tequila shots. This is not Canggu.
But what Ubud lacks in nightlife, it makes up for in cultural charm. Evenings here are for long dinners, glowing lanterns, and the occasional run-in with a frog the size of a papaya.
Many nights, local temples and community centers host traditional Balinese dance performances—complete with gamelan music, ornate costumes, and enough hypnotic eye movement to make your neck sore just watching. Tickets are usually available near Ubud Palace.
The mood here? Calm. Reflective. Maybe a little sleepy. But after a full day of walking through temples, dodging monkeys, and sweating through your third linen shirt of the day, sleepy is exactly what you want.
Ubud surprised us. It somehow managed to be everything we expected and still completely defy our expectations. It had the overhyped smoothie bowls, the influencer crowds, and the curated spirituality—but it also had quiet walks through rice fields, kindhearted locals who invited us into their homes, and food worth remembering. Ubud reminded us that even the most touristed places can still feel personal if you give them the chance. You just have to look past the slogans and find your own story, your own connection. And that’s what makes it worth it—because travel, when done right, lets you uncover the real beneath the packaged.
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