Travel Guide for Bali, Indonesia (2026): Best Tips & Places

Bali isn’t just a place, it’s a mood, a dream, a state of mind. It’s also one of the most visited islands in the world, welcoming over 6.3 million international tourists every year. And with good reason.

One moment you’re sipping coconut water on a white sand beach, the next you’re hiking up a volcano at sunrise. The streets of Ubud buzz with incense and gamelan music, while Canggu’s beach clubs serve cocktails with a side of sunset. It’s paradise, if you know how to navigate it.

But here’s the thing: Bali isn’t as simple as booking a flight and showing up. The island is big, traffic is chaotic, and not all beaches are created equal. Choosing the wrong location can turn your dream vacation into a logistical headache. And let’s not even get started on taxis, cultural faux pas, and food spots that are more Instagram than substance.

This guide is your Bali survival manual. No tourist traps, just straightforward, expert-backed tips on where to stay, what to do, how to get around, and how to make the most of your time without wasting a minute (or a dollar). Whether you’re here for the beaches, the temples, the food, or the adventure, I’ve got you covered.

Let’s dive in.

Key Takeaways

• Bali is a diverse island with vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and bustling towns like Ubud, Seminyak, and Canggu.

• Best time to visit: Dry season (April-October) for beaches and sightseeing; wet season for fewer crowds and lush landscapes.

• Where to stay: Seminyak (luxury), Canggu (hipster vibe), Ubud (culture), Uluwatu (cliffs), Nusa Dua (family-friendly), North Bali (adventure).

• Top things to do: Visit temples (Uluwatu, Tanah Lot), explore rice terraces and waterfalls, surf or snorkel, and enjoy beach clubs.

• Getting around: Rent a motorbike for freedom, use Grab/Gojek apps for short trips, hire private drivers for day tours.

• Must-try foods: Nasi Goreng, Babi Guling, Mie Goreng, Bebek Betutu; eat at local warungs or health cafes.

• Respect local customs: Wear sarongs at temples, don’t point feet at sacred objects, bargain politely, and tip when deserved.

Best Time to Visit Bali

Bali has two seasons: wet and dry. Both have their perks, but it depends on what kind of trip you want.

Dry Season (April – October) – Best for Beaches & Sightseeing

• Weather: Sunny, warm, and little to no rain.

• Best for: Surfing, outdoor activities, and exploring.

• Downside: Peak tourist season (July-August), meaning higher prices and crowded beaches.

Wet Season (November – March) – Fewer Crowds, Lush Landscapes

• Weather: Hot, humid, with short but heavy rain showers.

• Best for: Fewer tourists, greener landscapes, and lower prices.

• Downside: Rain can affect outdoor activities like volcano hikes.

How to Get to Bali

So you’ve picked the perfect time to visit, and now it’s time to figure out how to actually get there. Whether you’re flying in from abroad or island-hopping across Indonesia, Bali is surprisingly accessible once you know your options.

Flying into Bali: What You Need to Know

Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), also known as Denpasar Airport, is the main entry point to the island. It’s located in southern Bali, about 30 minutes from popular areas like Seminyak, Kuta, and Canggu.

International Flights

Bali might feel like a far-off paradise, but getting there is easier than you think. The island is connected to dozens of major cities across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, many of which have direct flights that get you there in just a few hours.

If you’re flying from Singapore, you’re in luck. It’s one of the quickest routes to Bali, with direct flights taking just 2.5 hours. Coming from Kuala Lumpur? That’s about 3 hours, and you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly options with carriers like AirAsia and Batik Air.

Travelling from Bangkok takes around 4.5 hours, while Tokyo is about 7 hours away by direct flight with airlines like ANA and Garuda Indonesia.

From Australia, Bali is basically a tropical weekend escape. Flights from Sydney or Melbourne clock in at around 6 to 7 hours, with options ranging from budget (Jetstar) to full-service (Qantas, Garuda).

Even from farther away, like Dubai or Doha, you can reach Bali in roughly 9 to 10 hours, flying with Emirates or Qatar Airways. And if you’re coming from Europe (say Amsterdam, Paris, or London), expect a longer journey with at least one layover, with typically 16 to 20 hours total travel time depending on connections.

In terms of airlines, you’ve got tons of choice:

• Singapore Airlines, Scoot – from Singapore

• AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air Malaysia – from Kuala Lumpur

• Jetstar, Qantas, Garuda Indonesia – from Australia

• Emirates, Qatar Airways – from the Middle East

• KLM, Turkish Airlines, China Airlines, ANA – from Tokyo and European hubs

And something you should know before you fly. Flights often land in Bali late at night or early in the morning. Make sure you arrange your hotel check-in accordingly, and book your airport transfer in advance to avoid inflated taxi fares.

Domestic Flights

Already in Indonesia? Great, you’ve got plenty of short, budget-friendly options to get to Bali.

Some of the main airlines flying to Bali domestically include:

• Garuda Indonesia – Reliable full-service airline with meals and baggage included

• Batik Air – Hybrid carrier with decent comfort and legroom

• Citilink – Budget-friendly and generally on time

• Lion Air / Wings Air – Ultra-budget, but known for delays

• Super Air Jet – A Newer low-cost carrier gaining popularity on popular domestic routes

Popular Routes:

• Jakarta ➝ Bali – 1.5 hours

• Surabaya ➝ Bali – 1 hour

• Yogyakarta ➝ Bali – 1.5 hours

• Lombok ➝ Bali – 30 to 45 minutes

Booking Tip: Use local booking platforms like Traveloka or Tiket.com, or go directly through the airline for better domestic flight deals.

Taking the Ferry to Bali

If you’re already travelling around Indonesia or visiting nearby islands, the island is easily reachable by ferry. Ferries and fast boats operate daily from Lombok, the Gili Islands, and Nusa Penida.

From Lombok

• Fast boats take around 2 to 2.5 hours from Bangsal or Senggigi to Bali (Padangbai or Serangan port).

• Public ferries also run regularly, taking about 4 to 5 hours. These are slower but cheaper.

Popular operators:

Eka Jaya Fast Boat, Gili Gili Fast Boat, Wahana Gili Ocean

From the Gili Islands

Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno all have direct fast boat connections to Bali. Travel time is typically 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the weather and the exact port.

Common arrival ports: Padangbai, Sanur, or Serangan

Operators include:

BlueWater Express, Eka Jaya, Semaya One, Gili Gili Fast Boat

From Nusa Penida & Nusa Lembongan

These two islands are just off the coast of Bali and offer frequent fast boat service, which is perfect for day trips or short stays.

• Boats leave from Sanur and take just 15–30 minutes

• Main operators: Maruti Express, El Rey Junior, Angel Billabong Fast Cruise

Important Note: Weather conditions can affect boat schedules, especially during Bali’s wet season (Nov to Mar). Always check the latest updates and travel advisories before booking.

Getting from the Airport or Ferry Port to Your Hotel

Once you land or dock in Bali, you’ll need a way to get to your accommodation. 

Here’s how to avoid overpaying or getting stranded:

• From Ngurah Rai Airport (DPS): Use Grab or Gojek ride-hailing apps for fixed pricing, or a Bluebird Taxi for metered fares. Avoid unofficial drivers near the arrivals area.

• From Padangbai or Sanur ports: Pre-arrange a private driver or check if your hotel offers pickup. There’s usually limited transport available directly at the docks, especially in the evening.

• Cost Range:

• Airport to Seminyak/Canggu: IDR 150,000-300,000 ($10-20 USD)

• Padangbai to Ubud: IDR 300,000-400,000 ($20-30 USD)

Local Tip: Many drivers offer full-day hire services for a fixed rate. If you’re planning to sightsee en route to your hotel, this can be a great option.

Where to Stay in Bali

Each part of Bali offers something completely different.

1. Seminyak – Trendy & Upscale

Best for: Luxury resorts, shopping, high-end dining, and beach clubs.

Why stay here? Think chic cocktail bars, boutique shops, and stylish beachfront lounges.

2. Canggu – Hipster & Digital Nomad Haven

Best for: Laid-back vibes, coworking spaces, surf spots, and trendy cafes.

Why stay here? It’s less commercial than Seminyak but still packed with cool restaurants and bars.

3. Ubud – Culture & Nature

Best for: Rice terraces, yoga retreats, waterfalls, and Balinese culture.

Why stay here? The spiritual heart of Bali, with jungle views, traditional markets, and art galleries.

4. Uluwatu – Cliffside Luxury & Surfing

Best for: Stunning ocean views, white sand beaches, world-class surfing.

Why stay here? Secluded, scenic, and home to some of Bali’s best sunset spots.

5. Nusa Dua – Resorts & Relaxation

Best for: Families, honeymooners, all-inclusive resorts, and private beaches.

Why stay here? It’s Bali’s luxury resort hub, with pristine beaches and fewer crowds.

6. East & North Bali – Quiet & Underrated

Best for: Diving, snorkelling, volcano hikes, and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Why stay here? If you want peace, authentic Balinese villages, and natural beauty, this is it.

5 Top Things to Do in Bali

Bali isn’t just about beaches and partying. Here are the must-do activities for every type of traveller.

1. Visit Bali’s Iconic Temples

• Uluwatu Temple: Cliffside sunsets and Kecak fire dance performances.

• Tanah Lot: A temple that appears to float on the ocean at high tide.

• Besakih Temple: Bali’s largest and holiest temple, located on Mount Agung.

2. Explore Ubud’s Natural Beauty

• Tegalalang Rice Terraces: Stunning, Instagram-worthy rice fields.

• Campuhan Ridge Walk: A scenic trek through Ubud’s rolling hills.

• Sacred Monkey Forest: A jungle sanctuary filled with mischievous monkeys.

3. Chase Waterfalls

• Sekumpul Waterfall: Bali’s most breathtaking multi-tiered falls.

• Tukad Cepung: A hidden waterfall in a cave with magical lighting.

• Gitgit Waterfall: A beautiful, easily accessible cascade in North Bali.

4. Surf, Snorkel & Dive

• Surfing: Canggu, Uluwatu, and Padang Padang have world-class waves.

• Snorkelling & Diving: Amed, Nusa Penida, and Menjangan Island offer incredible underwater experiences.

5. Experience Bali’s Beach Clubs

• Finns Beach Club: Famous for sunset parties and infinity pools.

• The Lawn (Canggu): Relaxed beachfront vibes with great food.

• Savaya (Uluwatu): Cliffside clubbing with insane ocean views.

3 Ways to Get Around Bali

Transportation in Bali can be tricky if you don’t plan. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Motorbike Rental – Best for Freedom & Budget Travellers

• Cost: IDR 80,000-150,000 ($5-$10) per day.

• Good for: Short trips, avoiding traffic, and flexibility.

• Warning: Bali’s roads can be chaotic. Wear a helmet and check your travel insurance.

2. Ride-Hailing Apps – Best for Short Rides

• Grab & Gojek: The easiest and cheapest way to get around.

• Bluebird Taxis: The only metered taxis in Bali. Avoid unofficial cabs.

3. Private Drivers – Best for Day Trips

• Cost: IDR 500,000-1,000,000 ($30-$65) for a full-day driver.

• Great for: Ubud, Uluwatu, and North Bali, where taxis are limited.

Food & Drinks: What to Eat in Bali

Bali’s food scene is legendary, from street food stalls to fine dining.

Must-Try Local Dishes

• Nasi Goreng: Indonesia’s famous fried rice.

• Babi Guling: Balinese-style roasted pork.

• Mie Goreng: Fried noodles with vegetables and meat.

• Bebek Betutu: Slow-cooked Balinese duck.

Best Places to Eat

• Warungs (local eateries): Cheap, authentic, and delicious. Try Warung Bambu, Warung Nia, or Warung Made.

• Vegan & Health Cafes: Bali is a paradise for plant-based eaters. Check out Kynd Community, The Shady Shack, and Sayuri Healing Food.

Cultural Etiquette & Local Travel Guide Tips

• Respect temple rules: Wear a sarong and never point your feet at sacred objects.

• Don’t touch people’s heads: In Balinese culture, the head is the most sacred part of the body.

• Bargain, but politely: Haggling is expected in markets, but always with a smile.

• Tipping isn’t required, but appreciated: Round up your bill in restaurants and tip drivers if they go above and beyond.

Bali is more than just a vacation spot; it’s an adventure waiting to happen. Whether you’re here for the beaches, culture, food, or nature, this island has something for every kind of traveller. Plan wisely, respect the culture, and get ready to fall in love with Bali.

Conclusion

By now, you’re practically a Bali expert. You know where to stay, what to eat, how to get around, and most importantly, how to avoid getting ripped off by overpriced taxis or falling into tourist traps.

But here’s the thing about Bali: it’s not just a checklist of things to do. It’s a place that’s meant to be experienced. The best moments? They aren’t in the guidebooks. They’re the unexpected ones, the local warung you stumble upon with the best satay you’ve ever had, the hidden rice terrace you find by accident, the street musician playing a tune that sticks with you long after you leave.

So, use this guide. Plan your trip. But also, leave space for the unplanned.

Because Bali isn’t just a destination, it’s a feeling. And that’s something you’ll have to discover for yourself.

For a deeper dive into Bali with curated itineraries, hidden gems, and a custom Google Map, check out our Bali Travel E-Guide.

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