15 Best Things To Do in Ubud Bali: Is Ubud Worth Visiting

Are you planning a trip to Bali and wondering what the best things to do in Ubud are?

No trip to Bali is complete without spending at least a few days in Ubud. Tucked away in the heart of the island, Ubud is considered the cultural soul of Bali — a place where lush rice terraces, jungle waterfalls, ancient temples, and local artisans come together to create a truly unique experience.

Although Ubud is no longer a hidden gem, it remains one of my favorite places in Bali. It still offers that special mix of nature, spirituality, and creativity that continues to inspire travelers from around the world.

In this post, I’ll be sharing the best things to do in Ubud — including popular attractions, hidden gems, and unforgettable places to eat, relax, and recharge.

Keep reading to discover the magic of Ubud — Bali’s cultural heart.

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Best Things To Do in Ubud Bali

1. Experience a Flower Bath

Soaking in a flower bath in Bali is something you truly shouldn’t miss, these dreamy baths are filled with warm water, vibrant flower petals, and often come with a stunning jungle backdrop.

It’s not just about the photo (though yes, it’s super Instagrammable) — it’s also one of the most relaxing and soothing experiences you can treat yourself to in Bali.

One of the most popular spots is Kaveri Spa at The Udaya. What makes it extra special? They actually send you flower design options before your appointment so you can pick your favourite shape and colour combo. The team there is amazing — they helped me take so many photos and videos, making the whole experience even more fun.

Another dreamy option is the spa at Maya Ubud Hotel. The flower bath here comes with river views and the calming sounds of nature.

Make sure to book in advance, though — these experiences are super popular and spots sell out quickly!

2. Start Your Day with a Floating Breakfast

One of the best (and most Instagrammable) things to do in Bali is to enjoy a floating breakfast — and yes, it’s just as dreamy as it sounds.

You’ll find it offered at most hotels and villas, especially in Ubud and the more luxurious spots around the island. Imagine starting your morning in a private pool, with a tray full of tropical fruits, pancakes, eggs, fresh juice, and of course, coffee — all beautifully arranged and floating right beside you.

Is there a better way to start the day in Bali? Honestly… I don’t think so!

I had the luxury of staying at The Udaya Villas, and honestly — it was a dream. One of the highlights was enjoying a floating breakfast in my private villa pool. It was just as magical as it looks… Pure Bali bliss!

If your hotel doesn’t offer this experience, don’t worry — you can still book a floating breakfast here, it’s such a fun and relaxing way to start the day, and totally worth it for the experience (and the photos!).

🤩 Read my full review about the Udaya Hotel here.

3. Swing in a Flying Dress

One of the most fun and relaxing things to do in Ubud Bali is hopping on a jungle swing. You’ll find these swings all over the island, with stunning backdrops like rice terraces, palm trees, and tropical valleys. Most places even have flying dresses you can rent on the spot.

The staff at the swing were also super helpful — they knew exactly how to capture the best angles and helped us take plenty of photos and videos.

We did the Instagrammable Bali Tour, and our guide took us to a quiet, tucked-away location with the most breathtaking view over the rice fields. No crowds, no rush — just a peaceful swing and some beautiful memories.

4. Wander Through Bali’s Famous Rice Terraces

No trip to Ubud is complete without visiting its iconic rice terraces — and honestly, photos don’t quite capture their full beauty. These lush, layered fields are not only stunning but also wonderfully calming to explore.

One of the most popular spots is the Tegallalang Rice Terrace, just a quick 20-minute drive from Ubud. We visited on a tour, and the views were breathtaking — endless green steps cascading down the hills, with gentle breezes and swaying palm trees all around.

Entrance tickets cost 25,000 IDR per person, so remember to bring some coins with you.

If you prefer not to explore solo, plenty of tours include Tegallalang along with other famous Ubud attractions.

For the best experience, try to visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and the midday heat. It’s the perfect time to soak in the peaceful vibe and capture some stunning photos.

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5. Join a Balinese Cooking Class

One of the most fun and meaningful things you can do in Ubud is take a Balinese cooking class. It’s such a great way to connect with the local culture — because honestly, food is culture, right?

If you’ve been following me on Instagram, you already know how much I love authentic cooking experiences (remember the one I did in Florence?). Ubud didn’t disappoint either. One of the top-rated options here is the Balinese Cooking Class at an Organic Farm, and it’s such a wholesome experience.

You can join a morning session starting around 7:15 am, which includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a visit to a local market, picking fresh ingredients from the farm, and then learning how to make delicious Balinese dishes step-by-step. It’s hands-on, fun, and you get to eat everything you make — what more could you want?

6. Swim Beneath a Waterfall

Bali is full of incredible waterfalls, and visiting one is an absolute must. We went to Goa Raja Waterfall, not to far from ubud and it felt like a hidden gem — not too busy, which made the experience even better.

We had so much fun swimming and just soaking in the view of the magical falls. The walk down wasn’t too difficult either, so it’s a great option if you want something beautiful and peaceful without the big crowds.

If you don’t want to get here yourself, you can book this top rated tour that also includes other famous spots around Ubud, like the Water Temple & Rice Terraces Private Tour.

7. Join a Morning Yoga Class

Starting your day with yoga is a must while in Ubud. Many hotels and wellness retreats offer daily morning sessions, often set in scenic pavilions surrounded by jungle or rice fields. The peaceful setting makes it the perfect way to ease into the day and connect with nature.

You don’t need to be an expert — most classes are beginner-friendly and often included with your stay. Whether you’re looking to stretch out after travel or simply enjoy a quiet moment to yourself, it’s a relaxing and grounding experience.

For a deeper dive into Ubud’s spiritual side, try a Healing and Aura Cleansing Tour that combines yoga, meditation, and traditional Balinese rituals. Led by a local shaman, it’s a unique way to experience the island’s energy and leave feeling completely refreshed.

8. Eat Pray Love Tour with Rice Terraces & Yoga

If you loved Eat Pray Love and Elizabeth Gilbert’s inspiring journey, this tour is a must-try! Spend a day seeing Bali through her eyes on a soulful adventure — with hotel transfers included, so you can just relax and enjoy.

You’ll wander through the peaceful Tegalalang Rice Terraces, soaking up those stunning green views. Then, you’ll practice yoga in a quiet, beautiful spot in Ubud — the perfect way to connect with yourself and the surroundings.

The day also includes a chat with a Balinese fortune teller who might just have answers to those big life questions. To top it off, you’ll join locals at a holy spring water temple for a traditional purification ceremony — a truly special way to experience Bali’s spiritual side.

9. Take a Peaceful Stroll on the Campuhan Ridge Walk

Hiking Campuhan Ridge Walk is free, and it’s one of the most scenic things you can do in Ubud.

Start your morning with a gentle walk through Campuhan Ridge Walk. This paved path winds through lush green valleys, swaying palm trees, and quiet rice fields, offering a refreshing escape from the busier parts of town.

The walk is short, easy, and open all day, making it perfect for any fitness level. For the most peaceful experience, head out early in the morning while the air is still cool and the light is soft — or come at sunset for that golden Bali glow.

The walk starts just behind the Ibah Hotel, but the easiest way to find it is by following the Google Maps location.

If you’re staying in Ubud town center, it’s a nice, short walk to the trailhead. If your hotel is a bit farther out, no worries — you can quickly grab a ride using GoJek or Grab apps.

10. Capture the Magic at Sari Timbul

Sari Timbul is one of those places that completely surprised me — in the best way. It’s often called one of the most Instagrammable cafés in Bali, but honestly, it’s so much more than that.

Tucked away in Tegallalang, this dreamy spot is surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful vibes. There are beautiful photo spots all around — swings, artistic installations, and jungle views — and the staff are super sweet and happy to help you take as many photos as you want (which I definitely did!).

It’s a little hidden gem in Tegallalang that’s 100% worth adding to your Ubud itinerary.

11. Relax and Recharge at a Spa in Ubud

One of the best things about being in Bali? The incredible spas — and the prices are a dream! You can get an hour-long massage for under $10, which means there’s no excuse not to treat yourself while you’re here.

Ubud is filled with amazing spas, from simple walk-in spots to luxurious wellness retreats. Even if you just want a quick break, you can pop into a local spa for a calming foot massage or a traditional Balinese massage, which combines soothing pressure with gentle stretching.

But if you’re really in the mood for something more luxurious, go all out with a full spa package that includes a flower bath, body scrub, and full-body massage. One of my favorite spots for this is Kaveri Spa — it’s dreamy, peaceful, and the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.

12. Shop for Unique Finds at Ubud Market

Ubud Market is the perfect spot to pick up special souvenirs for family and friends — or even treat yourself!

You’ll find everything from cute clothing and woven handbags to dreamcatchers, colorful canvases, and carved trinkets. Basically, if it’s handmade or unique, it’s probably there.

13. Visit the Beautiful Saraswati Temple

Right in the heart of Ubud, just off the main street of Jl. Raya Ubud, you’ll find the stunning Saraswati Temple — a great spot to kick off your sightseeing. Built in the 1950s, this temple is dedicated to the goddess Saraswati, who represents wisdom, art, and knowledge.

You’ll quickly see why it’s also called the Lotus Temple: there’s a peaceful pond filled with lotus flowers on both sides of the walkway leading to the main shrine, making it one of the most photogenic spots in Ubud.

Entrance costs 60,000 IDR per person and includes traditional Balinese temple wear — perfect for a fun photo op. You can even pay a bit extra for a professional photo package if you want to capture the moment perfectly.

14. Discover the Spiritual Charm of Pura Tirta Empul

If you want to dive deep into Balinese culture, Pura Tirta Empul Temple is a must-visit. This ancient Hindu temple dates back to 960 AD and is recognized as a national cultural heritage site. Entrance is 50,000 IDR.

The temple’s name means “holy water spring,” referring to the natural spring that feeds the temple’s pools and ponds, all connected to the sacred Tukad Pakerisan River.

The grounds are beautiful, filled with lush tropical gardens, intricate sculptures, and peaceful prayer pavilions. But the real highlight is the large bathing pool where locals and visitors alike take part in a purification ritual. Watching the ritual is fascinating.

15. Explore the Sacred Monkey Forest

Ready to meet Ubud’s most mischievous locals? A visit to the Sacred Monkey Forest is a must! Just a short walk from the town center, this 12-hectare jungle sanctuary is home to over a thousand free-roaming monkeys. You’ll see them swinging through trees and occasionally trying to “borrow” sunglasses or snacks from unsuspecting visitors.

The forest also features ancient temples, moss-covered statues, and peaceful jungle paths — it really feels like one giant playground for both monkeys and humans.

The sanctuary sits at the southern end of Ubud on Jl. Monkey Forest, and tickets can be bought at the entrance. Entry costs 100,000 IDR on weekdays and 120,000 IDR on weekends.

Be sure to follow the safety tips — keep your belongings tucked safely in a backpack!

FAQ

Is ubud safe for tourists?

Yes, Ubud is generally very safe for tourists. It’s a peaceful town known for its friendly locals, relaxed atmosphere, and strong focus on wellness and culture. Like anywhere, it’s wise to stay aware of your belongings and surroundings, especially in busy areas or markets.

Is Ubud really worth visiting

Absolutely! Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali, offering a perfect mix of nature, wellness, art, and local charm. From rice terraces and temples to yoga classes, luxury spas, and vibrant cafés — there’s something for every kind of traveler.

When is the best time to visit Ubud?

The best time to visit Ubud is during the dry season, from April to October. You’ll enjoy warm, sunny days perfect for exploring rice terraces, temples, and outdoor activities. July and August are the busiest months, so for fewer crowds and pleasant weather, consider May, June, or September.

Final Thoughts

I hope this guide to the best things to do in Ubud has inspired you and helped with your trip planning!

While Ubud might not be a hidden secret anymore, it still holds so much magic for travelers looking for authentic and unforgettable experiences.

From wandering through stunning rice terraces and discovering serene waterfalls to connecting with the friendly locals, Ubud truly is a highlight of any Bali adventure.

Enjoy every moment of your time in this beautiful part of the world!

Read More:
Hotel Review: The Udaya Resorts & Spa Bali
Maya Ubud Resort & Spa: Honest Hotel Review