10 Day Bali Itinerary: How to Plan a Trip to Bali, Indonesia

Best Things to Do in Bali in 10 Days

Here is a list of the best things to do in Bali if you have 10 days. For a longer list of things to do, check out our Bali Bucket List.

• Visit the Ulutwatu beaches
• Uluwatu Temple
• Tanah Lot Temple
• Day trip to Nusa Penida
• Sunset dinner on the beach
• Visit the Tegallalang and the Jatiluwih rice terraces
• Besakih Great Temple
• Pura Lempuyang and the Gate of Heaven
• Aling-Aling Waterfall
• Spend some time in Ubud
• Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
• Ulun Danu
• Mount Batur sunrise hike
• Wanagiri Hidden Hill
• Gitgit, Banyumala, and Sekumpul waterfalls
• Visit a coffee plantation

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple | 10 Day Bali Itinerary

About this 10 Day Bali Itinerary

When planning my trip, I found a lot of visitors travel to Bali for about 5 to 7 days. I decided to spend 10 days in Bali to experience as much as I possibly could. I structured this itinerary around seeing all the major attractions on the island while still providing time to relax and soak in your surroundings.

This itinerary is designed for those traveling Bali with a private driver or a rented car or motorbike. These are the best methods of island transport that guarantee you a sense of freedom to see the sites at your own pace.

If your visit coincides with the Balinese New Year, which occurs in March, learn more about what it is like to visit Bali on Nyepi Day.

10 Day Bali Itinerary

10 Days in Bali is plenty to see all the major attractions on the island, as well as giving you time to relax and really soak in your surroundings. You’ll have the most freedom and the best experience on this 10 Day Bali Itinerary.

10 Day Bali Itinerary: Day 1

Arrive in Uluwatu

To maximize your time today, plan to land in Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar – DPS) in the morning. Depending on when your flight lands, you may have limited time today. I flew into Denpasar from Sydney, landing around 12:00pm. This is a very light day to get adjusted, so a late landing won’t cause you to miss anything important.

It took a little over an hour to grab our bags and go through customs. From here, drive to your stay in Uluwatu (about 1 hour drive).

Afternoon in Uluwatu

There are numerous beaches in the area that are all worth your time to visit, such as Thomas Beach, Bingin Beach or Dreamland Beach. Depending on your accommodation, you may be situated on one of these. After unpacking, you have the choice to drive out to a nearby beach (about a 5 to 15 minute drive) or unwind at your hotel. The choice is yours.

Dreamland Beach | Sergii Figurnyi/shutterstock.com

Dinner at Bingin Beach

What better way to enjoy a welcome to Bali than with a tasty sunset dinner on the beach. For a well-priced meal on the beach, visit Lucky Fish Lounge. For a live music venue that’s a little bit pricey but well worth it, try El Kabron. Both get excellent reviews and will provide a pleasant end to your first day.

Where to Stay in Uluwatu

LUXURY: Jumeirah Bali. For the ultimate in luxury, look no farther than uameirah Bali. Rooms range from ocean villas with private pools to two bedroom villas that come with a butler service and complimentary airport transfers. There is an onsite restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, and fitness center.

UPSCALE: The Bingin Beach Villas’ Private Villas. Rooms are two and three bedroom private villas, some with their own private pool. There is an outdoor swimming pool and all rooms come with a kitchen and balcony. Some villas can accommodate up to 6 people, making this a great choice for families.

UPSCALE: Hari Indah Boutique Hotel & Spa. This bed and breakfast has an outdoor pool and onsite restaurant. It is beautifully decorated and multiple guests call it a “hidden gem” in the reviews. This property gets near perfect reviews on Booking.com.

MID-RANGE: The Elementum. Located in Bingin, this 3-star boutique hotel gets exceptional reviews. Rooms are double rooms and some have a sea view. The property has a pool and onsite restaurant.

MID-RANGE: Mule Malu Tropical Stay. This gorgeous hotel is located near Bingin and Dreamland beaches. Rooms are spacious and some have a view of the pool. Bathrooms are open-air and rooms are air conditioned.

MID-RANGE: Kalia Bingin – Adult Only. If you like the idea of staying in an adult only hotel, this one is a great option. Take your pick from double and quadruple rooms, all of which are very spacious and well decorated.

BUDGET: Teges Asri by Bukit Vista. This 2-star hotel is located in Bingin. It comes with a pool and offers free parking. All rooms have a private bathroom. Rooms can accommodate up to two people.

10 Day Bali Itinerary: Day 2

Uluwatu, Balangan, Nusa Dua, and Melasti Beach

What better way to start your first full day in Bali than by soaking in the sun at some of the best beaches on the island?

Today is arguably the lightest day in the itinerary, and the most flexible. There are four beaches to visit today, each with plenty of time to enjoy their unique charm. If one beach catches your eye more than others, you have the flexibility to modify this schedule and spend more time there or remove your least-favorite beach altogether.

9:00 am: Surf at Balangan Beach
12:00 pm: Nusa Dua Beach
3:00 pm: Melasti Beach
4:30 pm: Uluwatu Temple
6:00 pm: Uluwatu Beach for a sunset dinner

9:00 am: Surf at Balangan Beach

The first time I visited Bali back in 2015, I spent a week in Seminyak. Expecting a beautiful white sand beach, I was disappointed to see it run down and covered in trash.

8 years later, I finally found what I was looking for. Balangan beach is stunning. It’s much more secluded and lesser known, giving it some charm. The golden sand beach is nestled at the bottom of a short cliff, with parking lots located close above. Go for a swim in the pristine water, then unwind under an umbrella and sip a cocktail.

Balangan Beach | 10 Day Bali Itinerary

I spent hours here surfing the waves and had a perfect day for it. Swells at Balangan are solid all year-round and can be surfed by those of all skill levels. Larger swells will hit the western shores in Bali’s dry season (May through September). It’s then that waves are perfect for intermediate and advanced surfers, but beginners should take caution.

I found that the waves were excellent for beginners during the tail end of Bali’s wet season (November – April). A few hours at Balangan beach may end up being the highlight of your trip.

12:00 pm: Lunch at Nusa Dua Beach

Roughly an hour’s drive from Balangan Beach, Nusa Dua is a secluded paradise surrounded by luxury resorts and restaurants. Here you’ll find a long, wide stretch of golden sand and calm turquoise waters that go miles up the coast.

If choosing to eat lunch here, I recommend Sateria Beachfront or Ikan Restaurant. Looking to grab a nice drink? Try Kulkul Beach House. All restaurants are located right on the beach, some of which being on resort property. Due to location, meals are a bit pricey for Balinese standards, but much cheaper than Western standards. For example, an entrée at Ikan Restaurant costs roughly 150K IDR, or $10.

3:00 pm: Melasti Beach

Looking for a beautiful, lesser-known beach with golden sands and turquoise waters? Look no further than Melasti Beach, located on Bali’s southern shores.

This beach is perfect for a swim, where you’re treated to beautiful views of the surrounding limestone cliffs. While here, take a quick 5 minute walk out to Bali’s southernmost point!

Melasti Beach is roughly a 40 minute drive from Balangan Beach, Nusa Dua Beach, and Uluwatu Temple. This makes it very easy to reach from any location on today’s itinerary.

Melasti Beach | Iriskarightnow/shutterstock.com

4:30 pm: Uluwatu Temple

This Balinese Hindu temple provides scenic views of the surrounding cliffs and is also an excellent hub of unexpected entertainment. The temple is perched atop a cliff that overlooks the southwestern shores, making for some incredible views.

Uluwatu Temple | 10 Day Bali Itinerary

The main attraction for me, however, were the monkeys that roamed the temple. These guys were surprisingly bold, stealing hats and sunglasses right off visitors’ heads! Luckily, the monkeys are more curious than aggressive, so keep a tight grip on your belongings here.

You cannot enter the very top of the temple unless for prayer. I learned that the shots I saw online of the temple were all via drone, which is now banned. Instead of grabbing the perfect shot of the temple, I instead admired the coastline and watched the monkeys wreak havoc on unsuspecting tourists

You will receive a sarong with your entry ticket, which is required at the temple. The temple also hosts a Kecak dance performance daily at 6pm (150K IDR per adult). It took me an hour to visit Uluwatu temple, not including the dance. If you are interested in watching the performance, be prepared to allocate more time here and have a late dinner.

6:00 pm: Sunset Dinner at Uluwatu Beach

Only a 10-minute drive from Uluwatu Temple, Uluwatu Beach is the perfect spot for a sunset dinner. From great restaurants, stunning views, and fantastic surf, Uluwatu Beach has it all. The cliffside is terraced with restaurants and shops that overlook the water below. Wander the paths, shop at a few vendor stalls, and enjoy the secluded beach that rests below.

Uluwatu Beach is world-famous for surfing. The region hosts fantastic reef-breaks that are flocked by experienced surfers worldwide. At the base of the cliffs lies the beach (also known as Blue Point Beach) where surfers can begin their paddle-out. For beachgoers, this cove opens up at low tide for people to sunbathe.

Uluwatu Beach

Expect to spend about 2-3 hours here. I spent my time here soaking up the views at Single Fin, a restaurant located at the top of the cliffside. I enjoyed my time watching the surfers and relishing the moment. We ate lunch here and did not need a reservation. However, it was still pretty busy and for dinner, I would recommend booking in advance. You can make a reservation here.

Lunch at Single Fin

10 Day Bali Itinerary: Day 3

Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is a smaller island located directly offshore from Bali. Its exotic nature, beautiful beaches and cliffs are much quieter than Bali, and in my opinion, they’re also more beautiful.

About Nusa Penida

There are several key locations to visit on Nusa Penida, including Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and Diamond Beach. Not only are the beaches scenic, but Nusa Penida also offers some of the best snorkeling in the Bali region.

The island is generally broken up into the west and east sides, taking about 2 hours to drive between each.

The most popular way to visit Nusa Penida is with a pre-booked tour. The day tours you’ll find only encompass either the west or east side.

If you want to experience the full thing, you’ll have to stay overnight. Nusa Penida is a lot less dense than Bali in terms of population, although you’ll still find a good range of accommodation. A few of the Airbnb’s I’ve seen are absolutely beautiful.

Visiting Nusa Penida

There are two ways to tour Nusa Penida: with a guide and on your own. Most tourists prefer to book a day tour that includes a guide and transportation (both to & from the island, as well as on Nusa Penida).  Alternatively, you can hire a private driver to take you around Nusa Penida. There are also multi-day tours that you can book if you’d like to explore both the west and east sides of the island. Solo travel to Nusa Penida has also become more popular recently, with many travelers booking an overnight stay on the island.

The only way to get to Nusa Penida from Bali is via a 45 minute long ferry. The ferry departs from Sanur Beach, located 45 minutes from Ubud. You can visit Nusa Penida on your own, but I’d recommend booking a tour if you’re planning on day tripping. It’s a bit more expensive but eliminates a ton of unwanted hassle.

I booked with Four Elements and had a wonderful experience. They provided transportation from our resort to & from the Sanur harbor, as well as a guide that drove us around the western side of Nusa Penida.

The western side of Nusa Penida is a bit more popular and very beautiful. For that reason, this 7 Day Bali Itinerary will include a day trip out to Nusa Penida’s western coast. If booking with Four Elements, this is the schedule you’ll roughly be following for the day.

8:00 am: Arrive at Sanur Harbor (hour drive from Uluwatu)
9:30 am: Get off ferry at Nusa Penida
10:30 am: Broken Beach & Angel’s Billabong
12:15 pm: Kelingking Beach
1:30 pm: Lunch
3:30 pm: Depart Nusa Penida Island
5:30 pm: Dinner in Uluwatu

8:00 am: Arrive in Sanur Harbor

It’s an early morning today. It takes a little over one hour to drive to Sanur from Uluwatu, so expect to leave your accommodation around 7am. Once at the harbor, buy your ferry tickets if traveling solo. If you’ve booked a tour, ferry tickets should be provided to you.

The ferry takes 45 minutes to reach Nusa Penida. The waves can be choppy depending on the weather, so if you’re prone to seasickness I recommend taking medicine before boarding. They ensure that every seat on the ferry is filled, so it’ll be a bit of a tight ride over.

9:30 am: Arrive on Nusa Penida

If you’ve booked a tour, keep an eye out for the driver that’s provided. He/she will be your guide for the day while on Nusa Penida. If you’re traveling solo, there will be places to rent motorbikes for the duration of your trip.

10:30 am: Broken Beach & Angel’s Billabong

The first stop on your trip, these two are located within walking distance of each other, about an hour down the coast from the harbor.

At Broken Beach you’ll find a short cliffside walk where you can admire the beach itself, the surrounding cliffs, and a natural arch. You may even find a group of snorkelers in the water below. You cannot reach the beach on this trail; the only way is via a boat.

Broken Beach

Angel’s Billabong is a small rock formation just a few minutes’ walk from Broken Beach. Essentially, it’s a tiny pool of water surrounded by jagged rock walls that sits above sea level (depending on the tide). Personally, I didn’t see much appeal here, especially in comparison with Broken Beach.

12:15 pm: Kelingking Beach

In my opinion, Kelingking Beach is the most scenic beach in the region, more so than any of the beaches in Bali. When visiting it felt as if I’d been transported back to Krabi, Thailand. If that’s not reason enough to make the trip, I don’t know what is.

The beach is encompassed by a formation of sheer limestone cliffs that drop off into the water below. At Kelingking Beach, visitors can walk down the picturesque steps to the beach below. It is a long walk, so make sure you bring some water on a hot day. Once at the bottom, take a dip in the ocean and unwind.

Kelingking Beach

1:30 pm: Lunch

For those traveling on a pre-booked tour, lunch should be included in your schedule. Your guide will take you to a nearby restaurant where you can enjoy some delicious Balinese food. This also marked the final stop on my Nusa Penida tour.

3:30 pm: Depart Nusa Penida

Be prepared for a hot ferry ride back. The ferry I took didn’t have any cooling systems in the cabin, so due to the Bali heat the inside of my ferry turned into a furnace. The only thing keeping me sane as I sweat profusely was the window that was slightly open next to me. As we crested a large wave, a small amount of ocean spray would shoot through and cool me off.

5:30 pm: Dinner

Once back in Uluwatu, the rest of the evening is yours. Relax at your resort or head out to a nearby beach to grab dinner.

Day Trip Tours of Nusa Penida

10 Day Bali Itinerary: Day 4

Uluwatu & Ubud

There are no new attractions to visit today. Spend the first half of your day around Uluwatu and soak up the sun on a nearby beach (this will be your last chance to do so). In the afternoon, drive to your hotel in Ubud, where you can enjoy a meal and a few drinks. It is a 2-hour drive between Uluwatu and Ubud.

Restaurant in Ubud

Where to Stay in Ubud

LUXURY: The Kayon Valley Resort. This 5-star resort is located on the outskirts of Ubud. Each room is a villa that has its own private pool and views of the surrounding forest.

LUXURY: Royal Kamuela Villas & Suites at Monkey Forest Ubud. This property has an excellent location near the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Take your pick from a one-bedroom villa with a private pool or a large suite that overlooks the hotel pool.

UPSCALE: Kastara Resort. This property gets nothing but wonderful reviews. All rooms are air conditioned and come with a balcony and/or pool with a view of the tropical forest. This resort also has an infinity pool and bar.

MID-RANGE: Ranggen Ubud. Located in Ubud’s city center, it is just a short walk to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, shopping, and restaurants. This boutique hotel gets exceptional reviews. All rooms are double rooms and are air conditioned and have a balcony. This is one of our top picks if you want to stay in the heart of Ubud.

MID-RANGE: Angsoka Bungalow. This boutique hotel is located outside of the city center (about a 15 minute drive). But what you get is a Balinese-style hotel with an infinity pool that has views of the surrounding forest. This is one of the highest rated hotels in Ubud.

MID RANGE: Gayatri.This hotel has it all: an excellent location in Ubud, rave reviews and a gorgeous pool. It’s another great pick if you want to stay in the heart of Ubud. Some rooms accommodate up to 4 people, making this a nice choice for families.

BUDGET: Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel. This is where I stayed in Ubud and had a fantastic experience. Rooms range from dormitory style rooms to private double rooms. There is a large common area centered around a pool and gardens. This hotel has an awesome location in the Ubud city center.

BUDGET: Ubud Rice Field House. This hostel has a great location in Ubud. Relax by the picturesque infinity pool and enjoy the breakfast, which prior guests rave about.

10 Day Bali Itinerary: Day 5

Tegallalang, Tirta Empul, Ubud

Beginning in Ubud, you’ll spend today exploring central Bali. Enjoy an early morning walk through the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, take part in a purification ritual at Tirta Empul, and enjoy some free time in Ubud.

8:00 am: Breakfast at Cretya Ubud
9:00 am: Tegallalang Rice Terraces
11:00 am: Tirta Empul
2:00 pm: Free time in Ubud

8:00 AM: Breakfast at Cretya Ubud

Cretya Ubud is the perfect spot to grab breakfast today. Only a few minutes’ walk down the road, get here at opening time to enjoy a meal by the poolside. This restaurant/bar is perched atop the rice terraces, giving guests a stunning view of Tegallalang. They have several infinity pools that guests can enjoy, as well as a DJ that performs daily. Grab breakfast and maybe a cheeky drink to go along with it. Relax, you’re in Bali. A breakfast entrée costs roughly 95K, or $6.

Learn more on the official website.

9:00 AM: Tegallalang Rice Terraces

The rice terraces at Tegallalang may be one of the most picturesque spots on the island. When planning a trip to Bali, a trip is incomplete without a view of this terraced valley. I visited at the late end of the rainy season in March, so everything had a lush green color, and the rice plants were in full bloom. 

Tegallalang Rice Terraces | 10 day Bali Itinerary

There are plenty of different areas of Tegallalang that are worth your visit.

There are several Bali swings located within the rice terraces that we recommend checking out. It’s here that you can recreate the iconic photo showing someone swinging out over the jungle.

Look for the “I love Bali” sign, it’s hard to miss and a popular swing sits right by there.

Visitors are also welcome to wander this UNESCO site at their own leisure and may have to pay tiny entrance fees that go towards supporting the local infrastructure.

If you’re looking for the perfect photo, the best time to photograph Tegallalang is in the early morning. You’ll have soft lighting that will help make your photos pop. You have the option to visit these rice terraces before breakfast, just be prepared for a very early wake-up.

10:00 AM: Tirta Empul

Tirta Empul is a sacred Hindu Balinese water temple located only a few miles from Tegallalang. The main draw of this temple is its pools of holy water and spiritual influence. Visitors will travel to bathe in the water, taking part in a cleansing ritual for self-purification. Whether you’re an active practitioner or not, anyone is welcome within these pools.

Tirta Empul | 10 Day Bali Itinerary

The temple itself isn’t very large and may only take you five minutes to wander the full thing. Your length of stay will be determined by your choice to take part in the purification ritual. If interested in entering the pools (which is something we strongly recommend), there are sarongs to rent at the temple. I spent an hour here and found bathing in the pools to be one of the most unique travel experiences I’ve had.

2:00 PM: Free Time in Ubud

The rest of the day is yours. Refer to the end of this article for meal recommendations. Grab a massage, go shopping, and wander downtown Ubud.

10 Day Bali Itinerary: Day 6

Besakih Great Temple, Tirta Gangga, Pura Lempuyang

Today features three major Balinese Hindu sites, all spread out over the eastern side of the island. This schedule is built around seeing Pura Lempuyang at sunset. If you’d like to see it at sunrise to avoid the crowds, complete today’s itinerary in reverse order.

12:30 pm: Besakih Great Temple
2:30 pm: Tirta Gangga
3:30 pm: Pura Lempuyang

12:30 pm: Besakih Great Temple

Besakih is the largest Balinese Hindu temple on the island. It’s a giant complex of smaller shrines and temples that can only be described as impressive. Besakih is also the oldest and holiest temple on the island, rightfully being nicknamed “The Mother Temple”. Located near Mount Agung, the highest peak in Bali, you are treated to spectacular views of the volcano and surrounding countryside.

Besakih Temple | 10 Day Bali Itinerary

Besakih Great Temple takes roughly one hour to explore.

2:30 pm: Tirta Gangga

The water gardens at Tirta Gangga are a unique spectacle that is almost always flocked by tourists. The former palace-turned-sanctuary is famous for its array of fountains and stepping stones which have caught the eye of photographers over the past couple years.

When I visited in March of 2023, I found it to be packed with hundreds of visitors all attempting to get their perfect photo. The only problem was that practically every stepping stone was occupied by someone, making it impossible to grab a half-decent shot.

Tirta Gangga | 10 Day Bali Itinerary

Tirta Gangga | 10 Day Bali Itinerary

Although it can be considered a tourist trap, a visit to Tirta Gangga may still be worth it for you. It’s a beautiful sanctuary that is also conveniently located near both Besakih Great Temple and Pura Lempuyang. The site is located near the eastern shores of Bali and a short drive from the base of Mount Agung. A quick 30-minute visit is perfect for Tirta Gangga.

3:30 pm: Pura Lempuyang

Chances are you may have seen a photo of the “Gate of Heaven” while planning your trip to Bali. The gate at Pura Lempuyang is one of the most photographed spots on the island and has become extremely popular to visit over the last decade.

On a clear day, you can see Mount Agung framed within the gate, and in some photos, you’ll see a reflective pool that adds a mystical vibrance.
There are some issues to be wary of when visiting Pura Lempuyang. For starters, it has been heavily over-touristed and hundreds travel up the mountainside everyday to grab their photos.

When you reach the gate, you’ll be given a number that corresponds to your queue position. Chances are you’ll find a large courtyard full of people waiting in line and a local photographer aimed at the gate. Remember the reflective pool you may have seen in photos? That’s actually a clever trick with a mirror that the hired photographer uses.

Expect a looooong wait for your photos!! Wait times are generally 2-3 hours long, and yes, this is normal. When I visited at this time in March, I had over 100 people ahead of me in line! I decided not to wait for my own photo, instead snapping a photo of the gate while groups were in transition.

The gate itself is beautiful, and I believe it’s worth driving out here just to admire the view. If you’re like me and waiting around for 3 hours for a photo sounds like hell, this will be a quick visit. For those that are more patient and really want their photo at the gate, expect to spend 3 hours at Pura Lempuyang.

Photos are best at sunset, so if you arrive at 3:30 pm you may get the perfect shot. At 5 pm they don’t allow any new visitors to arrive at the temple, but those already in queue can stay.

The Gate of Heaven | 10 Day Bali Itinerary

Pura Lempuyang | 10 Day Bali Itinerary

There is a large carpark at the base of the temple. From here, you’ll ride a shuttle up to Pura Lempuyang and purchase your entry tickets. You cannot drive your own vehicle up to the temple, you must take the shuttle or walk (it’s a steep 40 minute uphill walk). Your entry ticket will include a sarong that you must wear on temple grounds.

Website: Get updated hours and pricing on the official website.

10 Day Bali Itinerary: Day 7

Ubud + the Optional Mount Batur Sunrise Hike

Today is your final full day in Ubud. There are two options on how to spend your time today. The first option is relatively low key day in Ubud, with a short hike, a visit to the Sacred Forest Monkey Temple, and the option to add on an ATV ride through the jungle. This is also a good day to do the Mount Batur sunrise hike, if that is on your to-do list and guided hikes are still being offered (the Bali mountain ban is in effect but at the time we are writing this itinerary, it hasn’t been enforced). 

Option #1: Relaxed Day in Ubud

Start the morning by completing the Campuhan Ridge Walk, and afterwards spend a few hours wandering the Sacred Monkey Forest. You have a lot of downtime today to relax and explore Ubud on your own.

7:00 am: Campuhan Ridge Walk
9:00 am: Sacred Monkey Forest Temple
12:00 pm: Free Time in Ubud

7:00 AM: Campuhan Ridge Walk

This short, 2-mile roundtrip walk is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the Balinese countryside. Right outside downtown Ubud, you’ll walk between rice fields on a paved stone path. I never completed this walk simply because I ran out of time, so I’m saving it for my next trip back to Bali.

The best part of the walk is the first half-mile, where you’re standing on the elevated ridge and get sweeping views of the surrounding jungle. The full roundtrip walk takes roughly one hour to complete.

Since today’s schedule is much lighter than previous days, you have the freedom to complete the walk anytime in the morning. I recommend starting the Campuhan Ridge Walk in the early morning (6:30-7:00am), as you can get excellent sunrise lighting and stay out of the harsh Bali heat.

Campuhan Ridge Walk | Maria_Usp/shutterstock.com

9:00 AM: Sacred Monkey Forest Temple

The Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud is one of the most popular attractions in Bali. This nature reserve houses hundreds of monkeys that freely roam the collection of forested temples. A major highlight for me was getting up close with a few of the monkeys under the guidance of a park guide.

The monkeys will not harm you unless they are given reason. Don’t feed them and be careful about what you bring into the park. They will mistake paper/plastic bags for holding food and will try to steal whatever is inside. I even learned not to open my own backpack as that could draw similarly unwanted attention.

There are more than monkeys to see at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Much to my delight, there are several temples to visit. The highlight of the temples are the carvings of monkeys, frogs, and other strange looking animals, all looking somewhat ferocious and menacing. Their moss-covered bodies made the temples seem mystical and otherworldly, like I was out in the middle of the jungle even though I was in downtown Ubud.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary | 10 Day Bali Itinerary

Get updated pricing and hours on the official website.

12:00 PM: Free Time in Ubud

Enjoy Ubud however you see fit! Grab some lunch, go shopping downtown, or even get a massage! If you’re worn out from the past few days, feel free to relax at your resort.

This is also the perfect time to take a Balinese cooking class or go white water rafting.

Option #2: Mount Batur Sunrise Hike & Ubud

Start the day with the Mount Batur hike and spend the rest of the day in Ubud. A nap today could be on the list of things to do, especially once you see today’s start time.

2:30 am: Pick up time to travel to Mount Batur
4:00 am: Mount Batur sunrise hike
9:00 am: Batur Natural Hot Springs
10:30 am: Abian Kusuma Sari Coffee Plantation (Optional)
12:30 pm: Lunch in Ubud
1:30 pm: Sacred Forest Monkey Temple

Mount Batur Sunrise Hike

The Mount Batur sunrise hike is one of the best experiences to have in Bali. However, it has an extremely early start, since the goal is to reach the summit of Mount Batur by sunrise.

To do this hike, your pick up time by your tour operator will be around 2:30 am (that is not a typo). The hike takes 3 to 4 hours, so you’ll finish up mid-morning, which gives you plenty of time to hang out in Ubud for the remainder of the day.

Mount Batur Sunrise Hike | 10 Day Bali Itinerary

For full details about the hike and recommended tour operators, take a look at our Guide to the Mount Batur Sunrise Hike.

9:00 am: Batur Natural Hot Springs

Located only a 15 minute drive from Mount Batur and an hour from Tirta Empul, these hot springs are the perfect place to relax after a busy morning. Here you’ll find a collection of heated infinity pools that are essentially giant hot tubs, situated right on Lake Batur. Batur Natural Hot Spring is open every day from 7am-7pm.

10:30 pm: Abian Kusuma Sari Coffee Plantation (Optional)

One of the big things to do in Bali is to visit a local coffee plantation. On your drive back to Ubud, stop by this nearby coffee plantation and order a tray of coffee & wine tasters. As you sip each one and decide which is your favorite, enjoy the view out over the jungle. Bali singlehandedly turned me into a coffee drinker, so you’re bound to enjoy your time here!

12:30 pm: Ubud

Return to Ubud, have lunch, maybe a nap, and visit the Sacred Forest Monkey Temple in the afternoon.

10 Day Bali Itinerary: Day 8

Bedugul, Ulun Danu & Handara Gate

Today is broken up into 2 stages: your morning in Ubud and your drive to Bedugul, a town situated in the North Balinese Highlands. In Ubud you have the option to complete an adventure tour, go shopping, or relax at your accommodation. You’ll visit several quick attractions in Bedugul before reaching your accommodation for the night.

8:30 am: ATV Adventure Tour
2:30 pm: Depart Ubud
4:00 pm: Ulun Danu
5:00 pm: Handara Gate
5:30 pm: Wanagiri Hidden Hill Outlook

8:30 am: ATV Adventure Tour

This section of the day is entirely optional. If you’d prefer to wander Ubud or relax at your accommodation, go for it. If you want some adventure, consider this tour.

We met other young travelers in Ubud that couldn’t stop raving about the ATV tour they took. Just outside Ubud, you join a group of people to drive ATVs on this wet, muddy track through the jungle and past a few small waterfalls. From what I’ve heard, the whole experience is exhilarating. Depending on where you go, the track can be very rough as you speed through thick jungle foliage, only adding to the adventure.

2:30 pm: Depart Ubud

Check out of your accommodation, grab a quick bite, and say your goodbyes to Ubud. It’s an hour and a half drive to Bedugul.

4:00 pm: Ulun Danu

This picturesque temple sits right on top of Lake Beratan. Situated right off the main road, Ulun Danu is very easy to reach and well worth your time. You get stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountainside. There is also a small park and other minor temples situated within the campus, allowing you to make the most of your money.

It takes an hour and a half to drive to Ulun Danu from Ubud. Ulun Danu is beautiful to see in the early morning glow, so if you’re willing to get here earlier, adjust today’s schedule appropriately.

Ulun Danu | 10 Day Bali Itinerary

5:00 pm: Handara Gate

Flocked by thousands of tourists every year, Handara Gate has become a bit of a tourist trap. The gate is iconic, but when I visited in late March, I found a very slow-moving line of people waiting to get their photo taken. After waiting in line for over 30 minutes, I quickly snapped my photos before moving on.

I found that the gate was a lot more underwhelming than it appeared in the photos. However, the gate is directly enroute from Ulun Danu, so it’s worth parking and admiring for a few minutes. There is also an employee that can snap your photo if you do not have your own camera or are traveling solo. I still recommend checking it out but beware of the crowds.

Handara Gate | 10 Day Bali Itinerary

5:30 pm: Wanagiri Hidden Hill Overlook

A short drive north of Bedugul, this outlook sits atop a nearby mountain ridge that overlooks Bedugul and surrounding lakes. The views are fantastic in the evening, and there are several different “Bali Nests” that you can pose in for photos.

If staying at the Garuda Villa and Restaurant, Wanagiri Hidden Hill is a short 5 minute walk down the road.

Wanagiri Hidden Hill Overlook

Where to Stay in Bedugul

We stayed at The Garuda Villa and Restaurant. I thought it was good, and one of the best spots in the area to stay. The food at the restaurant was fantastic. Giriwood Hotel and Villa is an upscale hotel with an infinity pool that gets rave reviews.

For the ultimate in luxury, take a look at HOMM Saranam Baturiti.

10 Day Bali Itinerary: Day 9

Banyumala, Gitgit, Sekumpul, and Aling-Aling Waterfalls

Out of the 10 days I spent in Bali, this was my favorite by far. You’ll visit four distinct waterfalls and grab an adrenaline rush at Aling-Aling waterfall. By spending the night in Bedugul, you’re able to visit all these fantastic locations without stressing about a long day in the car.

9:00 am: Banyumala Waterfall
11:30 am: Gitgit Waterfall
1:30 pm: Aling-Aling Waterfall
3:30 pm: Sekumpul Waterfall
6:00 pm: Dinner in Bedugul

9:00 am: Banyumala Waterfall

I love Banyumala Waterfall. Visiting Banyumala was one of my favorite experiences on the island.

Towering at a height of roughly 26 meters, this waterfall is both impressive and one of the best instagrammable spots in Bali. It’s not as popular as some of the other nearby falls, so you may have the entire place to yourself. Banyumala is also two waterfalls that converge in the same pool. Talk about a great spot for a swim!

There is a small parking lot that’s a 10-minute walk to the actual falls. On the way you’ll pass a small concession stand where you will pay the entry fee. Further on is a steep staircase down to the falls which can be slippery when wet. I arrived at 9 am and had the entire place to myself. Even in the late morning, you may only see a handful of people here.

Banyumala Waterfall | 10 Day Bali Itinerary

There is also a small dirt trail that takes you to a secluded lower waterfall. This one is equally as impressive with its terraced structure and has a small swimming pool. It’s a 2-minute walk from the twin waterfalls.

The second waterfall

11:30 am: Gitgit Waterfall

Gitgit waterfall is one of the most impressive waterfalls on the island and is comprised of several different segments. These two locations are separated by a 5 minute drive, and both sites are well worth your time to visit.

The southern portion of the falls features a small pool to swim in and is lesser known. When hiking out to it, I didn’t see another person.

Gitgit Waterfall

The northern portion is more popular and also more impressive. About 5 minutes downstream of the previous site, here the waterfall reveals Gitgit’s full power. You’ll find a large waterfall crashing down on a cluster of boulders below, making for a pretty sweet photo.

You can hike between the two locations, which takes about an hour. It’s recommended to do this with a guide as the trail isn’t well marked.

1:30 pm: Aling-Aling Waterfall

As an adrenaline junkie, Aling-Aling Waterfall was my favorite experience throughout my time in Bali. This spot is more like an adventure park, featuring three cliff jumps of various heights and a waterfall slide. For all the jumps there is a tiny ledge for daring visitors to jump off from, and below lies a deep pool of water.

Both the waterfall slide and cliff jumps are perfectly safe. Upon entry, you’ll hire a guide that will show you around the area and assist you on the waterfall slide. Our guide was fantastic, and this wouldn’t have been my favorite experience if it weren’t for him. Life jackets are provided for the waterfall slide so you protect your back.

Aling-Aling was such an epic experience that I recommend anyone to make the time to visit. Even if you don’t consider yourself an adrenaline junkie, there is still plenty of fun to be had.

Learn more in our Guide to Aling-Aling Waterfall.

3:30 pm: Sekumpul Waterfall

The final waterfall for today, Sekumpul is Bali’s tallest waterfall and one of the island’s most impressive. It’s located a little under an hour away from Aling-Aling.

This hidden gem is nestled deep within the rainforest and is roughly 3 times the height of Banyumala. Visitors will have a brief walk from the carpark to reach the viewpoint of Sekumpul Waterfall. From here, you have the option to hike down to the base of Sekumpul and visit other, smaller “hidden” falls.

You may be pressured to hire a guide upon purchasing tickets, but a guide is not necessary and honestly not worth the extra money.

Sekumpul is located roughly an hour away from other waterfalls such as Banyumala and Aling-Aling. I recommend allocating an hour and a half to visit Sekumpul Waterfall and venture out to some of the hidden falls.

Sekumpul Waterfall | Elizaveta Galitckaia/shutterstock.com

6:00 pm: Dinner in Bedugul

After a long day, enjoy a meal back in Bedugul. If staying on the ridge above town, come out at night to view the stars.

10 Day Bali Itinerary: Day 10

Jatiluwih, Tanah Lot, Fly Home

This last day in Bali is the perfect sendoff for your holiday. Enjoy the morning wandering the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, sip on coffee & tea in the afternoon, and wrap everything up at Tanah Lot before flying home.

8:30 am: Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
11:30 am: Sari Uma Coffee Plantation
12:30 pm: Tanah Lot
1:30 pm: Drive to airport

8:30 am: Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Located in central Bali, the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces may be one of the most scenic locations on the entire island. Massive rice fields stretch out for as far as the eye can see, framed by several of Bali’s largest volcanoes in the background. Jatiluwih is an underrated site that doesn’t get a lot of attention from tourists, which I found shocking due to its stunning beauty.

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces | Edmund Lowe Photography/shutterstock.com

The best time to visit is from February to April as the rice stalks will be in full bloom. While here, soak in the views and wander the fields. The area is so expansive that you could spend hours hiking.

A visit to Jatiluwih Rice Terraces could last anywhere from 1 to 3 hours.

11:30 am: Sari Uma Coffee Plantation

A 5 minute drive from Tanah Lot, treat yourself to another tray of coffee & tea tasters, and soak in views of the countryside.

12:30 pm: Tanah Lot

Tanah Lot rests on a small outcropping by the shore and is famous for its romantic setting and sunsets. At low tide, you can walk out to the base of the temple, but tourists are not allowed to enter. Despite this fact, it has remained one of the most popular attractions in Bali, and I’d consider it to be 100% worth it.

There is a park that rests up on the cliff above that viewers can enter. Wander the cliff edge and admire the waves crashing against the temple’s base.

Tanah Lot | Sergii Figurnyi/shutterstock.com

Planning Your Trip to Bali

Where to Eat in Ubud

As is the case with all 3 of these itineraries, you’ll be spending most of your time in and around Ubud. Ubud was my favorite place I stayed in Bali and the place I spent the most time. Given this, here are my recommendations on where to eat in Ubud:

Mamma Mia is an Italian restaurant located right by the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. For a cheap price you can enjoy a tasty entrée and sip a glass of wine. I ate several meals here and there always seems to be a good crowd. Don’t forget to order a homemade Chocolate-cello shot while you’re here!

Ivy Café is located within Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel. I stayed at Puri Garden for 3 nights, so I ended up enjoying multiple meals at Ivy. They offer both local and international food on their menu for a cheap price.

Nostimo Greek Grill Ubud is a minute’s walk away from Mamma Mia. They get great reviews and always seemed to be packed for dinner. I’d recommend calling to make a reservation the day of if planning on eating here for dinner.

Taco Casa Ubud is perfect for anyone with a craving for Mexican food (which was me my last day here). Meals are well-priced, and portions are hearty. Did I mention the food tastes delicious?

Taco Casa Ubud | 10 Day Bali Itinerary

Pistachio enjoys a bit of seclusion from the hustle of Ubud. It’s further out from downtown Ubud but still within walking distance (~15 min). They offer a wide range of international and local Balinese food and are one of the highest rated restaurants in Ubud.

Divya Bar is a restaurant in downtown Ubud that features a rooftop bar. They get great reviews and are in a convenient location if you’re interested in shopping or barhopping. Across the street are two other rooftop bars, Sami Warung and Mozzarella.

Tropical Restaurant Ubud is right in the heart of town. They have a great menu and, on some nights, will feature live music. I enjoyed the best Mojito of my life here, which I feel is great praise coming from a practicing bartender.

How to Get Around Bali

The roads of Bali are a nightmare to traverse. Everyone takes a more relaxed style to traffic laws and lanes are non-existent. You can guarantee that there will always be traffic (don’t expect to crack 20miles/32km per hour in urban areas), and the roads can be described as “organized chaos”.

Knowing this, always allocate more time to traverse the island as you will most likely get caught in a slowdown. The time estimates on Google Maps are pretty accurate (but add 15 to 30 minutes just in case).

Private Driver

The easiest and safest way to traverse the island, but also the most expensive. This was how we traveled between sites every day of our trip.

With a private driver, you have the freedom to select when & where you want to travel. They are there to make the most of your trip, and from my experience they were some of the kindest people I’ve ever met. We booked with Bali Hire Driver and had no issues. Ask for Suwardana, he was our driver for the last 3 days of our trip and is an absolute legend!

You can hire a driver with GetYourGuide and prices average out to roughly $50 to $65 USD to have a driver for 10 hours for a group of five people.

Rental Car

Friends of mine had rented a car to travel around Bali. Although it is much cheaper than hiring a driver, I don’t believe the hassle of driving your own car is worth it. Having to worry about parking and driving Balinese roads, which can be pure chaos, is only recommended if you’re absolutely confident in your ability behind the wheel. Ensure you have a viable international driver’s license before renting.

Scooter Rental

Using a scooter to navigate Bali can be more relaxed than driving a car and gives you a higher sense of freedom. This is our recommendation for those who want to save money and have a lot of experience driving a scooter. The crazy Bali roads are not the place to learn how to drive a scooter.

Make sure you have a viable international driver’s license as this is required. For more information, check out this article as they explain the process very well.

Public Transport

Taxis are not hard to find in Bali. When walking down the street you may have dozens of Balinese people ask if you’d like a ride. As tiresome as it can be, it is pretty convenient. This is only recommended for traveling short distances, as taxi drivers can scam you by taking the longer route. If you’re travelling across the island, you’re better off hiring a private driver.

There is a bus system, although it can be hot, dusty, and crowded. We found that they were almost always packed to the brim with people. Traveling by bus may be the cheapest option, but it doesn’t always give you the flexibility to view sites along the way to your final destination.

Note: There is NO UBER in Bali! Use “Grab” instead, an app that functions in a similar way to Uber.

If you have any questions about this 10 day Bali itinerary or how to plan a trip to Bali, let us know in the comment section below.

More Information for Your Trip to Bali

BALI: Learn more about Bali in our guide to the best things to do in Bali, how to visit the Aling-Aling Waterfalls, what it is like to visit Bali on Nyepi Day, and how to do the Mount Batur Sunrise Hike.

BALI ITINERARY: If you are planning a quick visit to Bali, take a look at our 5 Day Bali Itinerary and our 7 Day Bali Itinerary.

SOUTHEAST ASIA: Learn how to plan an epic trip through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam in our 3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary.

DESTINATIONS AROUND THE WORLD: For more places to visit around the world, check out our Destinations page.

TRAVEL ITINERARIES: For more travel itineraries for destinations around the world, take a look at our Travel Itineraries page.

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