Bali

Bali travel guide overview

Bali packs surf beaches, jungle-clad rice terraces, sacred temples and world-class diving into one small island. This Bali travel guide will help you decide when to visit, split your time between Canggu, Ubud and the east coast, and get around without wasting hours in traffic.

Best time to visit Bali

April to October is the dry season and the best time to visit Bali, with sunny days ideal for surfing, hiking and beach hopping. July and August are the busiest and priciest months. The wet season from November to March still has plenty of sunshine but expect short heavy downpours, especially in the afternoons.

Where to stay in Bali

Canggu suits surfers, digital nomads and beach clubs. Seminyak is more polished, with boutique shopping and sunset dining. Ubud is the jungle base for yoga, rice terraces and culture. For quieter beaches and diving, head to Amed or Nusa Penida. Most trips work best split across two or three areas.

Top things to do in Bali

Take a surf lesson in Canggu, hike Mount Batur for sunrise, visit the Tegallalang rice terraces near Ubud and snorkel or dive around Amed and Nusa Penida. Balance temples like Uluwatu and Tirta Empul with a slow morning at a jungle villa. Traditional dance performances at sunset are worth booking.

• Hire a private driver for full-day tours — cheap and easy
• Book Mount Batur sunrise hike a few days in advance
• Dress respectfully at temples and rent a sarong if needed
• Split your stay across at least two regions

What and where to eat in Bali

Warungs are family-run local eateries and offer the best-value food: nasi campur, mie goreng and satay skewers. Ubud has an excellent healthy and vegetarian scene, while Canggu and Seminyak lean international. Try suckling pig (babi guling) at least once and drink fresh young coconut with every meal.

Getting around Bali

Bali has no train system and traffic can be slow. Scooters are the cheapest way to get around but only ride one if experienced and always with a helmet. Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek work in tourist areas. For inter-region travel, hiring a private driver is comfortable, safe and inexpensive.

A simple 10-day Bali itinerary

Days 1–3: Canggu for surf lessons and beach clubs. Days 4–6: Ubud for jungle villas, rice terraces and yoga. Day 7: Mount Batur sunrise hike. Days 8–10: east coast in Amed or Nusa Penida for quieter beaches, snorkelling and a slower pace before flying home.