🇮🇩 Bali: Top Things to Do
Temples, rice terraces, waterfalls and beaches — how to plan an island trip that actually relaxes you.
Choosing your Bali
Bali is several trips in one: surf and beaches in the south, culture and greenery around Ubud, and quieter coasts to the east and north. Pick two bases rather than hopping daily — the island's traffic makes long drives slow.
Best time to visit
The dry season (April–October) is ideal, with sunny days and lower humidity. The wet season (November–March) is greener and cheaper, with short heavy downpours rather than all-day rain. July–August is the busiest stretch.
Getting around
There is no real public transport, so most visitors hire a private driver for day trips (very affordable) or use ride-hailing apps. Scooters are popular but only for confident riders. Roads are narrow and journeys take longer than the map suggests.
Where to stay
Ubud for culture, rice fields and wellness. Seminyak and Canggu for beach, cafes and sunsets. Sanur and the east coast for a calmer, family-friendly pace. Uluwatu for clifftop views and surf.
What to eat
Try nasi goreng, satay, fresh tropical fruit, and Balinese specialties like babi guling areas aside. Vegetarian and vegan food is abundant, especially around Ubud. BeforeDepart's finders also pinpoint Halal options for Muslim travelers.
Top things to do
- Sunrise or sunset at a cliff temple like Uluwatu or Tanah Lot.
- The Tegallalang rice terraces near Ubud.
- A waterfall hike in the island's lush interior.
- A traditional dance performance in Ubud.
- A slow beach day along the south coast.
Safety & money
Bali is welcoming and generally safe; watch for traffic, strong ocean currents (swim where flagged), and minor scams. Respect temple dress codes (a sarong, often provided). The currency is the Indonesian rupiah; carry cash for small vendors. Emergency number is 112.
✈️ Before you go to Bali
Sort the practical stuff that saves money and stress:
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Bali?
The dry season (April–October) is ideal, with sunny days and lower humidity. The wet season (November–March) is greener and cheaper, with short heavy downpours rather than all-day rain. July–August is the busiest stretch.
How do you get around Bali?
There is no real public transport, so most visitors hire a private driver for day trips (very affordable) or use ride-hailing apps. Scooters are popular but only for confident riders. Roads are narrow and journeys take longer than the map suggests.
What food should I try in Bali?
Try nasi goreng, satay, fresh tropical fruit, and Balinese specialties like babi guling areas aside. Vegetarian and vegan food is abundant, especially around Ubud. BeforeDepart's finders also pinpoint Halal options for Muslim travelers.
Is Bali safe for travelers?
Bali is welcoming and generally safe; watch for traffic, strong ocean currents (swim where flagged), and minor scams. Respect temple dress codes (a sarong, often provided). The currency is the Indonesian rupiah; carry cash for small vendors. Emergency number is 112.