Planning a trip to Ubud? Youโre in for something special. Ubud is Baliโs cultural heart โ a jungle town full of traditional temples, wellness vibes, lush rice terraces, and delicious food. Whether youโre visiting solo, with friends, as a couple, or on a family getaway, these Ubud travel tips will help you make the most of your stay โ without the stress.
Letโs dive into everything you need to know!
Getting From the Airport to the City Center
Ubud doesnโt have an airport, so youโll likely fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar). From there, Ubud is about 90 minutes away โ depending on Baliโs infamous traffic.
Hereโs how to get to Ubud:
- Official Airport Taxi: Easy and safe, but youโll pay a bit more. Look for the airport taxi counter after arrivals.
- Grab/Gojek (Ride-Sharing Apps): More affordable and reliable, but pickup points might be outside the main terminal. Worth the short walk!
- Private Drivers: Booked through your hotel or online. Super comfortable, especially if youโre tired or carrying lots of bags.
- Shuttle Services: Some budget options connect the airport to Ubud, but theyโre slower and less flexible.
Top tip: Arrange your ride in advance to avoid negotiating at the airport. Youโll start your trip more relaxed!
Getting Around Ubud
Ubud is small, scenic, and doesnโt have public buses. But itโs easy to get around:
- Scooter Rentals: This is the local favorite. Itโs affordable, gives you freedom, and parking is easy. Just drive safely and always wear a helmet.
- Walking: The town center is walkable, but sidewalks can be uneven โ so bring sturdy sandals or sneakers.
- Private Drivers or Tours: Ideal for temple-hopping, visiting rice terraces, or longer day trips.
- Grab & Gojek: Reliable for food delivery and rides. Just note: pickups arenโt allowed everywhere in Ubud.
- Bikes: A great option if youโre exploring the quieter outskirts. Make sure your brakes work!
Must-Try Foods & Where to Eat in Ubud
Ubud is a foodie paradise. Whether youโre vegan, gluten-free, or just want something tasty, youโll find it here.
Local Dishes You Have to Try:
- Nasi Campur: Mixed rice with sides like vegetables, chicken, tempeh, and sambal.
- Babi Guling: Balinese-style roasted porkโcrispy, spicy, and satisfying.
- Mie Goreng: Fried noodles with egg, veggies, and a protein of your choice.
- Tempeh Satay: Grilled on skewers with rich peanut sauce. So good.
Where to Eat:
- Warung Biah Biah: Local food, friendly prices, and great vibes.
- Alchemy Ubud: Vegan, raw food, and smoothie bowls galore.
- Clear Cafรฉ: Healthy options, creative drinks, and a cool spiral staircase.
- Ubud Night Market: Try everything! Cheap eats and full flavor.
Sightseeing & Attractions
Thereโs so much to see and do in Ubud. Nature, culture, spirituality โ you name it.
Donโt Miss:
- Sacred Monkey Forest: Monkeys everywhere! Watch your snacks, sunglasses, and make sure you don’t get bitten!
- Campuhan Ridge Walk: Gorgeous morning walk with valley views and a breeze.
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces: Iconic Instagram spot. Visit early to beat the heat and crowds.
- Ubud Palace & Saraswati Temple: Right in town. Beautiful, cultural, and often have dance shows.
- Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave): A mystical temple with ancient carvings and jungle vibes.
Activities for Families & Kids
Ubud is peaceful, fun, and perfect for a family holiday.
Family-Friendly Fun:
- Bali Bird Park: Birds from all over the world in shady, walkable paths.
- Tegenungan Waterfall: Splash-friendly and easy to get to.
- Rice Field Walks: Let the kids run around, explore, and take pics.
- Cooking Classes: Interactive, tasty, and kid-safe options available.
- Play cafรฉs: Check out spots like The Garden Kafe with space for the little ones to roam.
Finding the Best Accommodation
From luxury jungle villas to budget guesthouses, Ubud has it all.
Where to Stay:
- Central Ubud: Perfect for first-timers. Walk to shops, spas, and cafes.
- Penestanan: Peaceful and close to yoga studios. A favorite for long stays.
- Jungle Villas: Splurge-worthy and often come with views, pools, and privacy.
- Budget Homestays: Run by locals and often include breakfast. Great value!
- Retreat Centers: Many offer wellness packages and spa treatments included.
Best Time to Visit Ubud
Ubud has two main seasons:
- Dry Season (AprilโOctober): Best for outdoor activities, yoga, and exploring. Expect clear skies and sunshine.
- Wet Season (NovemberโMarch): More rain, but beautiful greenery and fewer tourists.
May and September offer the best of both worlds โ good weather and smaller crowds.
Free & Affordable Things to Do in Ubud
Ubud is surprisingly kind to your wallet!
Free or Low-Cost Activities:
- Campuhan Ridge Walk: Free, scenic, and a great way to start your day.
- Temples: Visit Tirta Empul, Pura Gunung Kawi, or local village temples.
- Markets: Window-shop at Ubud Art Market for crafts, clothes, and souvenirs.
- Waterfalls: Kanto Lampo and Tibumana are affordable and stunning.
- Live Music & Ceremonies: Ask around โ Ubud often has free local events.
Wellness, Yoga & Spiritual Experiences
This is what Ubud is all about.
Donโt miss:
- Yoga Barn: Daily yoga, sound healing, and spiritual workshops.
- Tirta Empul Temple: Purification rituals in sacred spring water.
- Spa Days: Affordable massages, facials, and flower baths are everywhere.
- Sound Baths & Ceremonies: Offered at retreat centers, temples, and wellness cafรฉs.
Safety & Common Tourist Scams to Watch Out For
Ubud is chill, but itโs smart to be cautious.
- Scooter Scams: Take pictures of any scratches before renting.
- Money Changers: Only use authorized placesโavoid tempting โbest rateโ signs.
- Pushy Tour Sellers: Walk away if someone wonโt take no for an answer.
- ATMs: Use machines attached to banks when possible.
Packing Tips & Travel Essentials
Hereโs what to pack to make your trip smooth and comfortable:
- Breathable clothing: Bali is hot and humid.
- Sarong or scarf: Required at many temples.
- Bug spray: Especially for evenings or jungle stays.
- Power adapter: Bali uses Type C and F plugs.
- Daypack: For hikes, temples, and spontaneous adventures.
- Water bottle: Most cafรฉs have refill stations.
From jungle walks and waterfall dips to yoga classes and tasty bites, Ubud has something for everyone. With these friendly and simple Ubud travel tips, youโre now ready to explore, relax, and truly enjoy every moment. Keep this guide handy โ and donโt forget to bookmark your doctor link, just in case.
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FAQs
While walking is a great option, renting a bike or scooter is a cost-effective way to cross longer distances.
Ubud is generally safe at night, but it’s a good idea to stay in well-lit areas, and to try avoid walking around alone.
That’s up to you โ but we think so!
