Bali Itinerary: 10 Perfect Days in Paradise

Are you planning a trip to Bali? Ooooh — lucky you! This ten-day Bali itinerary will help you plan the perfect trip to paradise!

With its sunny beaches, thriving jungles, picturesque rice patties, and beautiful temples, Bali is one of the best islands in Asia! In fact, it’s one of the most visited islands in the world as millions of people flock to this beachy paradise every single year!

While on the island of Bali, there are loads of things for you to do. You can visit the temples of Ubud, enjoy some downtown in Canggu, soak in the beauty of Nusa Penida, and experience the exciting nightlife of Seminyak.

In this post, I have come up with an amazing 10-day Bali itinerary. This plan will ensure that you see so much of the beauty that Bali has to offer.

That said, feel free to rework this itinerary to fit your preferences and style of travel. Because let’s be real — there is no such thing as the perfect Bali itinerary. Bali is bustling with so many things to do and everyone is into different activities. With that being said, you’ll figure out the perfect Bkuali itinerary for you so you can maximize every second!

The Best Time to Visit Bali

Bali is a stunning destination all year round. But, you should keep in mind that Bali is a tropical destination so it’s going to be humid and hot almost every day. Plus, there’s a dry season and a wet season as well.

Most people visit Bali between April and October. While this is the busiest time of year, it’s also the sunniest and it’s the dry season. Honestly, I prefer to visit popular destinations when there are fewer crowds even if that means dealing with rainy weather.

If you decide to visit between November and March, there’s a good chance that you won’t be able to lounge on the breathtaking, sunny beaches, because it’ll be raining for most of your trip. But, it doesn’t rain all day so you’ll be able to enjoy the pockets of sunshine throughout the day.

I visited Bali in December and I honestly had no issues with the rain. I enjoyed a good evening rain shower as I was falling asleep and it cooled the temperature down as well.

Important Tips to Know Before Traveling to Bali

1. Get Your Visa

For the vast majority of visitors, you won’t have to stress too much about your visa for Bali, Indonesia. If you are planning to stay in Bali for 30 days or less and are from one of the 160 countries with visa exemption, you don’t have to stress. And the same goes for if you are planning to stay in Bali for 30-60 days and are from one of the 160 countries that can get a visa on arrival.

As a matter of fact, Indonesia only requires visas for citizens from about a dozen different countries. But if you do need a visa, be sure to get the process started far in advance!

As of today, Americans don’t need a visa to enter Indonesia as long as they’re going for tourism purposes and staying less than 30 days. Of course, the rules can change at any moment so be sure to double-check.

2. Be Prepared for Crowds

Bali is one of the most visited islands in the entire world. In 2018, this island welcomed 6.5 million visitors! And the vast majority of these guests visited in the summer. If there’s a chance that you’ll visit in the summer too, be prepared for the crowds!

I’m not telling you what to do, but I highly recommend visiting from November to March. You won’t have to worry about the crowds. I felt like I had Bali all to myself and I got to experience it in a more hands-on manner.

Plus, an added perk is that you’ll get to enjoy cheaper prices on accommodations and tours. I also noticed that some shops were offering sales and promotions for tourists during these months. Bali just has a more relaxed vibe when visiting during the low season.

3. Respect Religious Customs

Religious ceremonies and customs are ingrained into Bali’s culture. For Nyepi, everything – including the airport – shuts down for the day. When your driver is winding his way through traffic, don’t be surprised if he or she pulls over to make a blessing. And it’s not uncommon for entire streets to close for a religious ceremony.

If you decide to visit religious sites during your trip to Bali, please remember to be respectful. Remember to take your shoes off at the door and cover your shoulders and knees.

4. Take Care of Nature

So much of Bali’s appeal comes from its stunning nature. While you’re there, be sure to do your part to take care of it! You can opt for a reusable water bottle, pick up your trash, and use reef-safe sunscreen.

5. Respect the Ocean

Along the same lines, you’ll want to respect the ocean. Bali is known as one of the world’s premier surf spots, so the conditions can be quite dangerous. With strong currents and large waves, Bali’s beaches can be quite dangerous. Know you’re swimming capabilities and never go into the water alone!

Also, if you’re eating a meal on the beach please be mindful and take your trash with you and dispose of it properly.

6. Learn a Few Words in Indonesian

Like anywhere in the world, the locals in Bali love when you speak any amount of their language. It shows that you put in the effort to learn about them and their culture. Now, no one is expecting you to speak Indonesian fluently, but a few phrases won’t hurt. Here are a few to get you started:

Hello: Halo

Thank you: Terimah Kasih

Please: Tolong

7. Be Careful When Renting a Scooter

While renting a scooter in Bali is fun and freeing, please be extremely careful! I’ve heard stories from several taxi drivers where foreigners have ended up in the hospital with major injuries because of scooter accidents. But, don’t let that stop you from exploring the island! It’s a cheap and efficient way to explore.

Just be careful and drive cautiously. If you avoid driving during peak traffic hours, you’ll be in better shape as well.

Lastly, be sure to purchase travel insurance in case something happens and you have to go to the hospital. (Knock on wood!) Even if you don’t plan on driving a scooter but you know you’ll be on the back of one, still get travel insurance. Hospital bills can add up and there’s nothing like unexpected injuries and bills to put a damper on your vacation.

I’ve traveled the world as a digital nomad for 2+ years and have always used SafetyWing for travel insurance. Their plans are incredibly affordable and they’re a reliable company.

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Bali Packing List

1. Passport (and Visa, If Necessary)

The most important thing you’ll need to bring on your trip to Bali is your passport (and, if necessary, your visa). Without these documents, you won’t be able to experience this amazing 10-day Bali itinerary.

2. Beachwear

Bali is known for its beaches, so you’ll definitely need to pack quite a bit of beachwear. Swimsuits, coverups, hats, and sunglasses are all must-haves on your Bali packing list.

And if you want to be eco-friendly, you’ll want to bring reef-safe sunscreen with you as well. While any type of sunscreen is important to avoid getting sunburned, reef-safe sunscreen also avoids polluting the beautiful Bali ocean with chemicals that are harmful to marine life.

3. Conservative, Lightweight Clothing

When you’re not on the beach, you’ll want to wear conservative, lightweight clothing. While the pictures you’ve seen on Instagram might make you believe otherwise, everyone in Bali isn’t strutting around in beachwear.

This conservative clothing is especially important when visiting any of the religious sites (specifically the Hindu temples) in Bali. When you visit these temples, be sure to cover your shoulders and your knees.

4. Rain Jacket

You’ll definitely want to bring a rain jacket if you’re visiting during the rainy season. But even if you decide to visit during the dry season, you’ll want to bring a rain jacket, just in case there’s an unexpected change in weather.

5. Flip-Flops

Unless you plan on having a particularly active time in Bali, you can probably get away with using flip-flops for most of your trip.

First of all, flip-flops are perfect for the beach, which is where you’ll likely be spending a huge portion of your time. And second, many temples, shops, and even restaurants ask you to remove your shoes at the door. You’ll easily be able to slip your flip-flops on and off your feet, instead of fumbling with the laces of a pair of sneakers.

That said, there are a couple of activities in Bali that require that you wear something other than flip-flops. If you plan on hiking Mount Batur, you’ll want to bring a pair of hiking boots. And if you plan on visiting any of the dress code-enforcing clubs in Seminyak, you’ll need to pack something appropriate for that as well.

How to Get Around Bali

There are a few different options for getting around Bali. If you feel confident in your scooter abilities, that’s a great way to explore the area.

If you want to have a more relaxing experience, you can use a ridesharing app. The three most commonly used ones are GOJEK, Grab, and Blue Bird Taxi — all Uber equivalents. My favorite thing to do when I travel is to ask my Grab driver how much he/she would charge for a full day’s tour. Usually, their prices are reasonable and they know all of the top spots to take me to.

You could hire a taxi, but don’t be a victim of getting ripped off. Getting ripped off by a taxi driver can happen anywhere in the world — even in your home country. Always make sure that the taxi meter is working properly and the driver doesn’t seem sketchy. Before getting into a taxi, I always ask the driver for an approximate cost so I know what I’m getting myself into.

You can even ask your hotel to arrange a private driver for you. This is the most expensive option, but if you’re not worried about the cost then it’s a perfectly great option.

What About Kuta?

You probably noticed that I left out Kuta from this Bali itinerary. That’s because I don’t think it’s worth visiting.

When I first traveled to Bali, I made the horrible decision of staying in the area for a few nights. I asked several friends who had been and that’s what they recommended to me. I should have done my research to verify their information, but blindly trusted them.

Kuta is located close to Denpasar which is where the airport is located. Therefore, it makes sense that a lot of people want to visit.

If you’re looking for those Bali sights you see on social media such as gorgeous beaches and cute cafes, you’re not going to find them here. Sorry!

Instead, you’ll find dirty beaches filled with trash and a bunch of drunk tourists. Kuta actually doesn’t even feel like Bali and I highly recommend skipping it. You’re not missing out on anything.

10-Day Bali Itinerary

Days 1-3: Ubud

Ubud is the most popular place to visit in Bali. With its stepped rice patties, lush greenery, and sacred temples, it’s a must-visit location for your Bali itinerary.

The one downside of Ubud is the crowds. Since it’s so popular, there’s really no avoiding the hordes of people that flock to all of the major attractions.

There are loads of things to do in Ubud! You can easily stay entertained for three days (or more if you’d like!). You can visit the beautiful Saraswati Temple, stroll through rice fields along the beautiful Campuhan Ridge Walk, and take a tour of the Puri Saren Agung (which is where the royal family currently lives!).

And if you’re an animal lover, you’ll definitely want to stop by the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. But be sure to keep your distance from the monkeys and don’t tempt them with food, because they will bite!

Things to Do in Ubud

Campuhan Ridge Walk
Museum Puri Lukisan
Pura Taman Saraswati
Rice Fields Walk (Tegallalang Rice Terraces)
Kecak dance performance
Puri Saren Palace
Take a cooking class
Monkey Forest
Blanco Renaissance Museum
Tegenungan Waterfall

Day 4: Seminyak

Seminyak is known for its beautiful beaches and thriving nightlife. But unlike the neighboring area of Kuta that is known for similar things to do, Seminyak is a little tamer than Kuta, in the best way possible.

During the day, you’ll want to soak up the sun in Seminyak. Seminyak Beach is the most famous spot in town since there are simply so many activities for you to do. You can surf the waves, take a horseback riding tour, or simply suntan.

Then, at night, you can embrace the lively nightlife scene in Seminyak. A few of the best spots to visit include Potato Head Beach Club, Bar 68 at IZE Seminyak, Mirror Lounge and Club, and Motel Mexicola.

Things to Do in Seminyak

Nyaman Gallery
Pura Petitenget
Enjoy the beach clubs
Have a spa day
Enjoy water sports
Tanah Lot

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Day 5-6: Canggu

It’s easy enough to make the thirty-minute drive from Seminyak and Canggu. And after the past four days of strolling through rice fields, visiting temples, and partying all night Canggu is the perfect place to take a beat and relax.

While in Canggu, you can relax on the beach, wander through adorable boutique shops, and dine at one of the many delicious restaurants. The best beaches in Canggu include Batu Bolong Beach, Berawa Beach, and Double Six Beach.

As for the food, you know all of those aesthetic acai bowls and smoothie bowls that you’ve seen on Instagram? There’s a good chance that those delicious dishes are from eateries in Canggu.

A few recommendations include Nalo Bowls Dojo, Satu Satu Coffee Company, and Balibola. And if you want to trade your acai bowl gem for a trendy bar, Old Man’s, Deus Ex Machina, and Lacalita Bar y Cocina.

Things to Do in Canggu

Surfing
Enjoy lunch or breakfast at Shady Shack
Watch the sunset on the beach
Mount Batur sunrise trek
Pura Tanah Lot

Day 7: Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida might be the most Instagrammed location in the area. In other words, a Nusa Penida day trip is a great addition to your Bali itinerary.

Nusa Penida is part of the Nusa Islands, a collection of three islands that also includes Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan.

The best way to get to Nusa Penida is actually to take a tour. If you decide to try to visit this island on your own, you’ll have to navigate ferry rides, winding roads, and challenging hiking paths. It’s a much better option to have a local guide you to your desired destinations.

The main highlight of Nusa Penida is Kelingking Beach. With the turquoise waters, secluded sandy shores, and uniquely shaped, greenery-laden cliffs, it’s picture-perfect! While at Kelingking Beach, you can soak up the sun, swim with sea turtles, or simply enjoy your own little slice of paradise.

But Kelingking Beach isn’t the only beach on Nusa Penida that’s worth your time. If you have a couple of hours to spare, you should consider visiting Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, and Crystal Bay as well.

Things to Do on Nusa Penida

Peguyangan Waterfall
Seganing Falls
Kelingking (T Rex)
Swim at Atuh Beach
Tembeling Natural Pool
Thousand Islands Viewpoint
Angel’s Billabong
Snorkel with manta rays at Manta Bay
Broken Beach
Crystal Bay

Day 8-9: Uluwatu

Situated on the Bukit Badung peninsula in south Bali, Uluwatu is another must-visit stop on your Bali itinerary. With beaches, temples, and even fire dancing, what more could you ask for?

Uluwatu has something for everyone. As a matter of fact, you’ll need at least two full days – if not more – to enjoy everything that catches your attention.

f you’re into photography, you’ll want to visit the abandoned Boeing 747 plane. To make the story even more mysterious, no one’s quite sure how it got there. If you’re hoping to enjoy some time in the sunshine, you can visit one of the neighborhood’s beautiful beaches, including Pandawa Beach, Suluban Beach, and Melasti Beach.

And then there are all of the sites for culture aficionados. If you’re into history or religion, you’ll definitely want to head to the beautiful Uluwatu Temple. And if you decide to visit at 6 p.m., you can catch the amazing Kecak Fire Dance performance. Pair that with the beautiful colors of the sunset, and it’s a one-of-a-kind experience.

Things to Do in Uluwatu

Sundays Beach Club
Relax at the spa
Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fire Dance
Balangan Viewpoint
Nyang-Nyang Beach
Uluwatu Temple
Karang Boma Cliff (Uluwatu Cliff)

Day 10: Jimbaran

To finish off your Bali itinerary, you’ll stop in the lovely area of Jimbaran. Before you head back to the hustle and bustle of life again, you can spend your final day enjoying as much rest and relaxation as possible.

There are a few different ways to feel relaxed in Jimbaran. You can enjoy the beaches, feel pampered at the spas, or simply enjoy delicious food. There are loads of beaches in Jimbaran that are worth a visit, including Jimbaran Beach, Suluban Beach, Padang Padang Beach, and Pandawa Beach.

But a day at the spa is a fantastic choice too, especially considering all of the unique Balinese spa treatments. Bamboo Spa and Opium Beauty are known for being two of the best spas in town.

And regardless of what you decide to do during your final day in Jimbaran, you have to eat! A couple of the most delicious restaurants in town include Warung Bamboo and Warung Ramayana. Or if you’d like a very authentic experience, you can head to the bustling Morning Market.

Things to Do in Jimbaran

Jimbaran Beach
Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
Pandawa Beach
Jimbaran Beach Club

Do you have any suggestions to add to this 10-day Bali itinerary? Let me know in the comments below!

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Disha Smith

Disha Smith is the founder of Disha Discovers. She quit her job in 2017 to travel the world to explore new cultures and experience new adventures. She has since been to 95+ countries and counting and has lived in South Africa, Thailand, Croatia, and Australia. She has done all kinds of travel ranging from luxury to budget backpacking, and her mission is to inspire others to discover their own sense of adventure and to help them plan a life full of meaningful experiences through travel.