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Some of the best things to do in Ubud range from early morning rice field walks to sipping smoothies in boho cafés, exploring ancient temples, and picking up handmade treasures at the local markets. If you’re planning a Bali trip and wondering if Ubud deserves a few days of your time, I definitely think it does.
Ubud is Bali’s cultural and spiritual heart, and even though mass tourism has changed things a bit, Ubud still offers a slower, more grounded pace than the beach towns.
I’ve visited Ubud a few times over the years, from relaxing getaways with friends to Ubud day trips, and most recently, travelling with my toddler.
So with all these different experiences, I’ve put together this guide, including how to get there, what to expect in the town centre, where to eat, and how to spend your time, including a few tips for those travelling with toddlers.
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Bali Airport to Ubud
Getting from Bali’s airport (Ngurah Rai International/DPS) to Ubud is straightforward, but it can take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. The easiest option is to pre-book a private driver, especially if you’re arriving with a lot of luggage or kids. (Here’s a link I have prepared just for you – Get Your Guide) Or, you’ll find plenty of drivers at the airport offering transfers with fixed prices, and many accommodations in Ubud can organise this for you too.
Centre of Ubud
The centre of Ubud is compact and walkable (although the narrow, uneven paths can be challenging with a pram), with most of the action happening along three main streets: Jalan Monkey Forest, Jalan Hanoman, and Jalan Raya Ubud.
This area is full of boutique shops, cafés, yoga studios, and art galleries. You’ll also find popular landmarks like the Ubud Palace, Saraswati Temple, and the Sacred Monkey Forest, all within a short walk.
If it’s your first time visiting, staying near the centre is a great idea. It’s easy to explore on foot, and there’s always something happening around you.
Things to Do in Ubud
I love Ubud because you can do as little or as much as you like. From meals that take hours because the location is too beautiful to leave, hikes through rice terraces, visiting temples or shopping for unique crafts. Ubud is a vibe, and if you can get past the traffic jams, you’ll find many ways to pass the time.
Abian Desa Rice Terrace in Tegallalang
Abian Desa Rice Terrace in Tegallalang is one of the more popular rice fields near Ubud, but every time I’ve visited, it’s felt surprisingly peaceful and never too crowded. The entrance fee is 25,000 IDR, and you’re free to walk through the terraced paths. Just be sure to stick to the marked trails out of respect for the local farmers.
If you’re up for a bit of fun (and a photo or two), there are extra attractions like the Bali Swing, Zip-line, Sky Bike, and bed swing, with prices starting around 200,000 IDR. And, the staff there will be happy to take photos and videos of you. And, they really do put in so much effort, so remember to leave a tip.
Plus, you’ll also notice photo spots like the “I Love Bali” sign, and there’s a café on site if you want to stop for a drink with a view.
Tirta Empul Temple
Tirta Empul Temple is a beautiful and sacred site about a 35-minute drive from Ubud, known for its traditional water purification rituals. You could either observe or take part in the cleansing ceremony. This is where people step into the temple’s pools and bathe under a series of spouts believed to bring spiritual purification. It’s a meaningful experience to witness, and even more so if you choose to join in.
When entering the temple, you will be respectfully required to dress modestly. If need be, you can hire a sarong at the entrance.
Mount Batur Volcano (hiking for sunrise)
Hiking up Mount Batur for sunrise is one of the most popular things to do around Ubud and for good reason. You’ll start the climb in the dark, and on a clear day, you’ll get to witness the sun rise over the surrounding mountains and Lake Batur from the summit. The hike itself takes about two hours, and it’s best to have a local guide to lead the way.
I was a slightly younger traveller when I did this hike, and my lack of experience had my friend and me getting picked up at 3 am in a t-shirt and shorts (it’s always hot in Bali, right?). And, I tell you, it was bloody freezing. But before you judge me, I’m sure we weren’t the only ones, as many locals were at the beginning of the trail with rental jackets to keep all the silly tourists warm.
Above all, this was an awesome hike, more challenging than I expected and most of our sunrise was obstructed by clouds and fog, but what a beautiful way to start the day in Bali.
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Things to Do in Ubud Town
Below is a list of things to do in Ubud town, for the days you want to avoid long drives or explore on foot.
Liyer Spirit House
*Formally Ketut Liyer’s House & Family.
If you’ve seen the movie Eat Pray Love, I’m sure you recognise the name Ketut Liyer. In 2012, I was lucky enough to meet the man the movie’s character is based on. During our time together, we sat outside while he told me tales about my future self (although not many of these predictions quite hit the mark).
Sadly, Ketut passed away in 2016 (age 102). His son now carries his legacy, and Liyer Spirit House warmly welcomes visitors.
Have a look at their Instagram account. Or, you can even book a stay at Liyer Spirit House.
Campuhan Ridge Walk
Campuhan Ridge Walk is in Ubud town and is often recommended for travellers with young kids or anyone looking for an easy-going walk. The full trail is about 2 km long and mostly flat, at least after the first section.
On my most recent trip to Ubud, I was all set to do the walk… until I reached the start of the trail and saw that the first stretch was uneven, a bit steep, and not exactly pram-friendly. Dragging my pram up there didn’t feel like the relaxing experience I had in mind.
That said, the trip wasn’t a waste at all. Right next to the start of the trail is Pura Gunung Lebah, a beautiful temple surrounded by lush jungle. While tourists can’t go inside, there’s a paved path that loops around the grounds, offering peaceful views of the temple architecture and the river below. It’s a lovely spot for a wander—even if you skip the ridge walk itself.
Ubud’s Art Market
Ubud’s Art Market is another must-do, especially if you’re after handmade goods, sarongs, rattan bags, or homewares.
It’s centrally located and I didn’t find any of the shopkeepers to pushy. The market is open daily from 8 am to 6 pm.
More Shopping in Ubud
If you’re after more boutique-style shopping, wander down Jalan Monkey Forest and Jalan Dewi Sita, where you’ll find independent clothing stores, ceramics, jewellery, and gifts.
So many stunning pieces to find, but some can be very pricey.
Ubud Monkey Forest
The Ubud Monkey Forest is one of the town’s most famous attractions. Home to a lush jungle sanctuary, with ancient trees, hundreds of long-tailed macaques, and three Hindu temples. There is an entrance fee (80,000 IDR for adults, on weekends it’s 100,000 IDR), and while the forest itself is beautiful and well-maintained, the monkeys can be a bit savage, especially if they spot food or shiny objects.
I didn’t visit during my most recent trip to Ubud since I was travelling with my toddler. I’ve heard more and more stories of monkeys becoming aggressive or trying to snatch belongings. When I visited a few years ago, the experience was stunning but definitely required keeping your wits about you.
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Things to Do in Ubud with a Toddler
Travelling with a toddler? Ubud has a few gems for your little ones. Livingston Holyground not only serves delicious, fresh food. But also has an outdoor area with a playground. Complete with a ball pit and slide. Shamana Mama is a kid-friendly restaurant with an indoor play area. Also, while visiting Abian Desa Rice Terrace in Tegallalang, it’s lovely to wonder through the rice terraces with your little one. This is a great opportunity to get them outside, away from traffic and enjoy nature.
If you also decide to stay away from Monkey Forest with your kids, you could always take a short walk and explore the outskirts of the Monkey Forest without going in. And, hopefully, spot a few cute monkeys from a safe distance.
Best Places to Eat in Ubud
Food is a huge part of Ubud’s charm, and there’s something for every taste. Plus, there are so many beautiful places that are suited to lazy mornings or long lunches.
Here are a few places worth checking out:
Tis Café – Perfect if you want to eat with a view. It’s so stunning here and the design is very unique and fits the environment perfectly. With a rice terrace backdrop and swimming pool, Tis cafe is a great spot for a very long lunch.
Livingston Holyground – A relaxed café that’s great for families. As I mentioned above, there’s space for kids to move around and plenty of kid-friendly options on the menu. Plus, a pastry cabinet that’s hard to walk past without ordering something to take away.
Alchemy – A popular vegan café with raw desserts, smoothie bowls, and wholesome plant-based meals. A solid choice if you’re looking for something nourishing or a welcoming place to get some work done.
Shamana Mama – A lovely little spot for breakfast or lunch. The food is fresh, the setting is laid-back, and it’s also one of my toddler-friendly favourites.
White Orchid – I’ve visited their Sanur location and have heard great things about their Ubud restaurant too. A good option if you’re after a slightly more upscale restaurant without being too fancy.
Is Ubud Worth Visiting?
If you’re looking for culture, nature, yoga, or just a quieter pace than the Bali beach clubs, Ubud is absolutely worth visiting. It offers something completely different to coastal towns like Seminyak or Canggu. There are fewer parties, more peace.
But with that said, it still gets busy with tourists, especially around the centre, and over the last few years, the traffic has gotten pretty wild. That’s why I would suggest staying slightly out of town (at somewhere like Menzel Ubud), so at least when you’re at your hotel, you can find complete peace.
How Long Should You Stay in Ubud?
I’d recommend staying at least 3 to 5 days in Ubud to settle into the rhythm of the place. You’ll want time to explore, chill out, and maybe take a yoga class or hike to a nearby waterfall.
If you’re travelling slower or working remotely, it’s the kind of place you could easily stay a week or more.
Weather in Ubud
Ubud sits in Bali’s highlands, so it tends to be cooler and more humid than the coast. The dry season runs from May to September, with warm days and cooler nights. The wet season kicks in around October and can bring plenty of showers right through till April. Regardless of when you go, bring a light jacket and something waterproof just in case.
Is Ubud Safe?
Ubud is generally very safe for travellers, including solo travellers. Like anywhere, it’s smart to stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in markets and busy streets.
Although I find that with less alcohol fueled venues, the vibes just feel more laid back and safe.
And, it’s not just humans that can make you feel unsafe – be mindful of monkeys near the Monkey Forest, they’re used to tourists but can be cheeky if you have food or shiny things and even sometimes slightly aggressive!
Best Places to Stay in Ubud
There are so many accommodation options in and around Ubud, it just depends on your budget and what kind of feel you’re after.
If you’re looking for a beautiful and quiet stay surrounded by greenery, check out Menzel Ubud. This is where I stayed on my most recent trip and loved it. The resort is peaceful, with traditional Balinese architecture and lovely service.
They have a few different room types, from large family villas to small budget hotel rooms. I stayed in one of the smaller villas, private pool and views of the rice terraces – couldn’t have asked for anything better.
Other great options include boutique hotels like Bisma Eight or Alaya Ubud, or if you’re on a tighter budget, there are plenty of charming guesthouses within walking distance of the town centre.
If you stay slightly out of town, make sure you get the Grab app on your phone. These rides are very affordable, and we never waited more than 5 minutes to be picked up.
My Final Thoughts on Ubud
Ubud will always be a special place to me. It’s where you can walk through peaceful rice fields in the morning, browse markets in the afternoon, and see beautiful temples just around the corner. But on my most recent trip, I noticed the impact of mass tourism more than ever.
There’s something different now, it felt more in-your-face this time. Traffic is constant, no matter the time of day. I saw signs of homelessness, and it made me wonder how rising prices are affecting locals. Plus, the environmental effects the overdevelopment must be having? And while Ubud still has a spiritual feel, it’s starting to get lost behind the traffic, trendy cafés, and high-end shops. I don’t think it’s gone, it’s just harder to find.
I’m not saying I have a solution, and I’m a part of the problem too, I guess. But it’s possible to really enjoy a place and still feel uneasy about what’s happening to it. Maybe the best thing we can do is travel thoughtfully—support local businesses, be respectful, and stay aware of the impact we have.
Ubud is still beautiful. But it’s changing. And I think it’s worth paying attention.
I hope this guide helps you plan a trip that’s not just about ticking off the big sights, but about spending time outdoors, connecting with the culture, and—of course—eating lots of good food along the way.
Thanks for reading,
Happy Travels.
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Elyse is the author & content creator behind A World To Live. After traveling to over 40 countries, she has a passion for discovering new places. Elyse is a money-conscious traveller who loves writing independent travel guides to help her readers get the most out of their travels.
