Are you looking to experience the ultimate Bali vacation? Then this 10-day Bali itinerary is perfect for you! From exploring beautiful beaches and lush jungles, to sampling delicious cuisine and taking part in traditional ceremonies, this trip has it all.
You’ll start by visiting some of the most popular tourist spots on the island before heading off into more remote areas where you can truly get a sense of local life. Of course, no visit to Bali would be complete without indulging in its amazing food culture – so make sure to leave room for dessert! Along the way, we’ll show you how to enjoy all that Bali has to offer while staying safe and mindful of cultural customs.
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Where is Bali?
There is a lot of confusion out there about whether or not Bali is a country. The answer is no, Bali is not a country but one of many islands that make up the southeast Asian country of Indonesia. Bali stands out above the other Indonesian islands because of its stunning landscapes, luxurious accommodations, international influence, and warm welcoming people.
How To Get to Bali?
With Bali being an island, you will most likely need to take a plane to get there unless you’re coming from one of the neighboring islands or a cruise ship. Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is the main airport and it accepts flights from all over the world.
If you’re coming from the United States there are no direct flights available unless you are coming direct from Hawaii and the flight options are few and far between. Most connections will occur in Jakarta, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, and Manila Philippines.
There are direct flights from many other major cities in the world, but it is also possible to fly indirectly from anywhere.
Things To Know Before You Go
Before we jump into the Ultimate Bali itinerary 10 days, there are some things to know that will help you plan and make the most out of your trip.
Language
There are two official languages spoken in Bali, Bahasa Indonesian and Balinese. Balinese is only spoken on the island of Bali while Bahasa Indonesian is the national language and spoken all over Indonesia. Most locals that you meet in Bali will speak both.
But, the big question Do they speak English in Bali? While English is not the main language spoken, you can find many people who speak it throughout the island, especially in the tourism industry. We currently live here in Bali and only speak a little Bahasa and we get along just fine using mainly only English.
Currency
The currency used in Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). And let me tell you they use a lot of zeros! For example, 1 million Rupiah is currently worth about 67.00 USD.
ATMs are available all over the island, and it’s generally recommended to use them rather than exchanging money at a currency exchange as you usually will get a better rate and it’s much more convenient. Credit cards are accepted in most major establishments though be aware when using foreign cards there may be transaction fees associated typically 2-3%.
Religion
Unlike the rest of Indonesia where Muslim is the majority, Bali is predominately Hindu and its culture is deeply intertwined with the religion. You will find temples all over, in homes and businesses, even on the sides of roads!
The Balinese people are incredibly welcoming to those that visit their island but much like visiting any country, it’s important to respect their beliefs and traditions when you’re here.
Climate
The climate in Bali is tropical and the temperature stays pretty consistent year-round averaging around 82°F (27°C). The dry season runs from April to October while the wet season runs from November to March. During the rainier months, you can expect late-night showers but usually will have clear skies during the day. See Bali weather by month for the best time to visit.
Is Bali Safe to Visit?
Yes. Bali is considered very safe for tourists to visit and has a low crime rate. You should take the same precautions as you normally would when traveling to any foreign country like not leaving your valuables unattended, especially in public places.
There are areas of Bali that you won’t be able to access due to safety reasons and government restrictions but don’t worry, these areas are far away from the main tourist spots and won’t affect your trip. As long as you use common sense, you should be more than safe during your stay in Bali.
Do You Need a Visa For Bali?
US passport holders as well as 80+ other passports do not need to apply for a Visa before arriving in Bali. A Visa On Arrival (VOA) is available for purchase once you arrive at the airport. The cost is 500,000 Rupiah or about 35 USD.
Each person including children will need a VOA. It can be extended one time for a total of 60 days before you will need to exit the country. Also, it’s a requirement to have at least 6 months left before your passport expires.
How To Get Around Bali
Bali does not have any mass transit system or train lines so the best way to get around is by car. Self-drive car rentals are fairly cheap and widely available throughout Bali. If you’d rather not drive, a very popular option is to hire a private driver for the day or multiple days which will take you wherever you need to go.
You can also take a Grab (which is a ridesharing service like Uber) or GoJek for a motorbike ride. These services are widely available all over Bali. Be sure to download these apps before arriving and add payment details.
Another popular option if you’re traveling solo or as a couple is to rent scooters or motorbikes. The traffic can be quite bad and scooters are a much quicker way to get around. However, I would caution that it’s not advisable if you don’t have experience riding them as the roads can be chaotic and a bit confusing to navigate.
How Many Days Do You Need in Bali
Bali is not a place where you can do a quick weekend trip, so the longer you can stay, the better! Generally, for a first-time visit, I recommend at least 7 days but preferably 10 to be able to explore multiple areas. This will give you enough time to check out a few of the popular locations and still have some downtime to relax on the beach or poolside.
If you really want to get off the beaten path, I recommend at least 14 days to explore more remote areas that aren’t as frequented by tourists.
Bali Itinerary 10 Days Overview
Since we have lived here in Bali for quite some time we’ve been able to experience a lot of what Bali has to offer. This 10 day Bali itinerary includes our favorite destinations, top attractions, and best foods to try and is perfect for solo, couples, and family travelers or even for a Bali honeymoon.
Here is the Bali Itinerary 10 Days at-a-glance:
Day 0: Travel Day: Arrive in Bali / Canggu or Seminyak
Day 1: Canggu
Day 2: Canggu – Uluwatu
Day 3: Uluwatu
Day 4: UIuwatu – Nusa Penida
Day 5: Nusa Penida
Day 6: Nusa Penida – Ubud
Day 7: Ubud – North Bali
Day 8: Amed – East Bali
Day 9: Amed – East Bali
Day 10: Travel Day: Leave Bali
Bali Itinerary 10 Days Introduction
We’ve designed this 10-day Bali Itinerary starting at Day 0 which will be the day that you arrive at the Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar Bali to Day 10 the day that you fly out.
Bali Itinerary Day 0: Travel Day – Arrive in Bali
If you’re coming from the west coast of the U.S. either from San Francisco, Los Angeles or Seattle you more than likely will have logged 20-25 hours of travel time and be quite exhausted and ready to relax especially by the time you get through immigration, and customs.
Head straight to the hotel in either Seminyak or Canggu. No matter what time your plane arrives you’ll be looking for a little rest.
[Before you leave the airport grab yourself a prepaid sim card for your mobile phone. We like the Telkomsel service and it runs about 80k ($5.25 USD) for about 15 gigs.]
Looking for the best hotels in Seminyak and Canggu? Here are some of our favorites:
Canggu
- Luxury – Como Uma Canggu
- Mid – Grun Resorts Treehouse Hotel
- Budget – Sedasa
Seminyak
- Luxury – Double Six
- Mid – Aksari
- Budget – Lotus Tirta
Is it better to stay in Seminyak or Canggu?
Both are great options, but they are different in culture. Canggu has more of a cool trendy surf town vibe while Seminyak offers luxurious upscale accommodations and a more active nightlife.
Bali Itinerary Day 1: Canggu
Start the first official day of your 10-day Bali itinerary with breakfast at Crate Cafe. Crate is the hottest breakfast spot in Canggu and is well-known for their delicious acai bowls, french toast, country breakfasts, and coffee. After breakfast, wander around the streets of Canggu to check out some of the local shops and art galleries.
In the afternoon, head to Echo Beach which is one of Bali’s most surfed beaches. Enjoy watching all the experienced surfers or take a lesson yourself. Here is a list of the best Canggu beaches.
If you’re not interested in surfing, spend the afternoon visiting Tanah Lot or Pura Tanah Lot in Indonesian. It’s one of the most iconic temples in Bali, located on top of a rock that is surrounded by the ocean.
Continue with dinner at La Brisa, located right on Echo Beach. La Brisa has one of the coolest boho-themed beach club vibes complete with cabanas and pools! It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset and enjoy some delicious food and drinks!
La Brisa is always busy so make sure to make reservations before arriving though they usually always can fit you in if you just show up.
After the sun goes down check out one of Canggu’s live music bars like Old Man’s, The Lawn, or Finn’s. If you’re staying in Seminyak La Favela is always hopping.
Bali Itinerary Day 2: Uluwatu
Get your last taste of Canggu by hitting up Sensorium for breakfast before heading down south to Uluwatu. Sensorium is a trendy cafe with some of the most delicious fusion food you’ll find in Bali.
The next stop is Uluwatu which is known for its rugged coastline and stunning sunsets. Having lived in Hawaii for some time we call Uluwatu the Hawaii of Bali. The white sand and turquoise waters remind us so much of the island of Oahu.
When you arrive in Uluwatu your first stop should be Dreamland Beach which is a great spot for surfing or swimming and also offers some breathtaking views. If you’re looking for a value stay look at Klapa Resort (it’s located right next to Dreamland).
In the afternoon, head over to Bingin Beach, a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and soft white sand perfect for relaxing.
Finish up your day with an evening at the Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fire Dance Show. This famous performance will give you an authentic taste of Balinese culture. Make sure to make ticket arrangements for the show through your hotel or plan to arrive early as this show does sell out every night.
Bali Itinerary Day 3: More Uluwatu
If your Uluwatu resort or hotel does not offer breakfast or if you’re looking to try something different head over to Waffle Hut Uluwatu for some of the most unique waffles on the island.
Next up visit Suluban Beach for a beautiful cave-like structure that opens up beautifully to the turquoise blue waters. The view from the cliff above is striking enough for many but if you’re adventurous and don’t mind a few steps head down into the cave.
After you fill up your phone with photos at Suluban the next stop is Karang Boma Cliff-probably the most majestical cliff in all of Bali! Just be aware if you have small children or are not comfortable with heights the cliffs are steep!
Time to grab some eats at The Cashew Tree. The Cashew Tree offers a variety of different food options from healthy vegan to not-so-healthy but delicious desserts. There is something for everybody and they have a fun playground area for the kids. For reference, they serve breakfast lunch, and dinner all day.
After you’ve fueled up it’s time to hit Melasti Beach. Melasti is beautifully surrounded by impressive cliffs and probably has the best infrastructure of any of the beaches down in the Uluwatu area. The access is friendly, food/drink choices are solid and showers and bathrooms are available.
After you get your beach on it’s time to get your groove on at Sunday’s Beach Club. Sunday’s is one of the most well-known beach clubs in South Bali if not the entire island! Its relaxed waterfront dining, music, and beach bonfires will help you finish out your 2 days in Uluwatu on a high note!
What are the best Hotels in Uluwatu?
- Luxury – The Ungasan
- Mid – Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort
- Budget – Klapa Resort
Bali Itinerary Day 4: Nusa Penida
Check out of your hotel in Uluwatu and cruise over to the Sanur Port to catch the earliest fast boat to Nusa Penida. It’s about 45 minutes boat ride and it’s best to leave early to avoid the rough waters of the afternoon. We recommend booking your fast boat to Nusa Penida through Angkal Fast Boat or Maruti Fast Boat.
Once you get settled into your accommodation head over to Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong. These two natural wonders are located side-by-side and offer stunning views of the ocean and cliffs.
Next up Kelingking Beach lookout. It’s probably the most Instagrammable spots on the entire island! This is a must-see. If you’re the adventurous type and have a little extra time you can hike down to the beach itself. Be warned it’s not for the faint of heart-it’s steep, kind of sketchy, and totally exposed to the sun.
Towards the evening make your way over to Amok Sunset for dinner. This restaurant offers a great view of the sun setting over Nusa Penida and the parts of Bali on the mainland. Amok Sunset is famous for its grilled seafood dishes but also offers a variety of Southeast Asian cuisine that won’t disappoint.
Favorite Nusa Penida Tours
Bali Itinerary Day 5: Nusa Penida – Ubud
For your last day in Nusa Penida make sure to get a snorkel tour booked through Komodo Adventure. This is one of the best companies on the island and they offer tours to swim with manta rays at Manta Point. The tour also stops off at Crystal Bay, Diamond Beach, and Turtle Bay so you can get a half day of snorkeling in.
If you’re traveling with kids, here is a good resource for things to do on Nusa Penida.
Make sure to catch the afternoon boat back to mainland Bali-it usually leaves Nusa Penida around 4 pm. Next stop Ubud!
Best Places to Stay on Nusa Penida
- Luxury – Adiwana Warnakali
- Mid – Angkal Resort
- Budget – Sunset Hill Cottage
Bali Itinerary Day 6: Ubud
Welcome to the jungle! First on the to-do list is Sacred Monkey Forest. Located in the heart of Ubud, Sacred Monkey Forest is home to hundreds of Balinese long-tailed monkeys. Make sure not to have any loose items or plastic bags of any kind-these monkeys love these shiny objects and can be a bit aggressive if you have food.
After you’ve had your fill of primates it’s time to check out Ubud Art Market. This traditional market has everything from handmade souvenirs and unique gifts to fresh fruits and vegetables. Make sure you have some bargaining skills with you-haggling is part of the experience!
For dinner don’t miss Locavore-it’s the talk of the town in Ubud. This award-winning eatery is renowned for its modern and creative twists on traditional Balinese dishes. The atmosphere at Locavore is perfect for a cozy evening, with the outdoor patio bathed in warm lighting and rustic decor.
Or if you’re after some of the best traditional Indonesian food go for Sun Sun Warung.
Finish up your day in Ubud by taking a stroll through Campuhan Ridge Walk which offers stunning views of the lush jungle landscape. It’s an easy hike and perfect for those looking to get an authentic taste of the Bali jungle.
Bali Itinerary Day 7: Ubud and North Bali
Grab a quick breakfast at Ely’s Kitchen and put on your trekking shoes-it’s time to go waterfall chasing in North Bali. Tell the driver to take you to Banyumala Waterfall first. This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in all Bali. With its multiple tiers and emerald green waters, it’s no wonder why it’s so popular with tourists and locals alike.
It’s about a 2-hour but very scenic drive-even passing the famous Bali Handara Gate and Ulun Danu Beratan Temple. Take some quick pics and keep heading north to Banyumala Waterfall.
Once you arrive at the Banyumala parking it is about a moderate 15-minute walk down to the base of the falls. Bring your swimmers if you want the full experience.
When you’ve had your fill of Banyumala, make your way over to Sekumpul Waterfall which consists of 7 separate tiers of cascading water.
It’s about an hour’s drive from Banyumala, so plan accordingly! This is the most impressive waterfall that I have ever seen! There are three different waterfalls you can visit but you will probably only have time for the main Sekumpul attractions before you need to head back to Ubud for the night.
For more details, check out our complete guide to all of the best waterfalls in Bali.
Best Places to Stay in Ubud
Luxury – Mandapa
Mid – Bisma Eight
Budget – Ketut’s Place
Bali Itinerary Day 8: Ubud and East Bali
At this point, you’ve been going hard hitting all of the main highlights in Bali, it’s time for a little slower pace. So pack your bags because Amed is your next stop and the best-kept secret on the island. Maybe try to catch some zzz’s on the drive since it’s about 2-hours from Ubud.
Amed is located in the East of Bali and is known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, breathtaking landscapes, snorkeling, and world-class diving. Once you arrive, kick back at the pool and enjoy the scenery or head to one of the many volcanic black sand beaches located in the area.
If you’re still raring to go see the many things to do in Amed.
Once you have your legs under you again head to our favorite beach and snorkeling location-Jemeluk Bay. This beach has a panoramic view of the sea, gentle waves, and plenty of colorful marine life. The popular underwater temple also known as the “post office” is located in the middle of the bay and marked with a black buoy.
*Note. Amed is also a popular Bali destination for scuba diving. With plenty of unique dive sites like the U.S.S. Liberty and a Japanese shipwreck, this is a must-see area for all divers.
For dinner, head to Warung Asri for some of the most delicious seafood in Bali. The restaurant has an incredible view overlooking Lipah beach and is the perfect spot to watch the sunset.
Bali Itinerary Day 9: Amed and East Bali
Start your last full day off by visiting Tirta Gangga Water Palace. This beautiful Balinese water palace was built in 1948 and is a perfect example of Balinese architecture.
Tirta Gangga consists of three separate pools with lush vegetation and statues throughout the grounds. Be sure to bring your camera, this place is a must-see!
Next head over to Pura Lempuyang which is home to the famous Gates of Heaven. This Hindu temple complex is located in the shadow of Mount Agung and consists of seven levels leading up to a sacred gate with breathtaking views.
After you have finished exploring Pura Lempuyang, take some time to relax on Amed beach and watch the beautiful sunset.
For dinner make sure to check out Warung Enak. This beach-side restaurant offers western as well as local dishes with fresh seafood options.
After dinner, you can end your evening at Jemulek viewpoint.
Best Places to Stay in Amed
Luxury – Mathis Lodge
Mid – Aquaterrace
Budget – Bali Sari Homestay
Bali Itinerary Day 10: Amed and Travel Day
Last day, boo! Depending on what time your flight leaves you may want to just hang out at the resort or squeeze any missed items from the list.
For more detailed information on other things to do check out our Things to do in Amed Travel Guide.
Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to make it back to the airport because the traffic can be a bear sometimes.
Tips For Visiting Bali
Now that we’ve covered the complete Bali Itinerary 10 Days, it’s time to go over a few tips that you should know to help get the most out of your Bali trip!
Avoid Bali Belly
Bali Belly is no joke! Make sure to wash your hands regularly and avoid eating at stalls that aren’t turning over food quickly. And for heaven’s sake Don’t drink the tap water in Bali.
For a more detailed scoop see Bali belly: How to Avoid and Treat.
Indulge in the Balinese Cuisine
Enjoy the incredible Balinese cuisine options. One of the great perks of Bali is the incredible international food selection. From street food to fine dining, Bali has something for everyone.
Make sure to try the traditional Indonesian sampler platter known as Nasi Campur. It’s the best way to try a variety of authentic dishes all at once! Nasi Goreng or “fried rice” is also a popular choice that you’ll find available at nearly every Indonesian restaurant or warung.
Respect Local Customs in Bali
Living here in Bali, unfortunately, we have seen too many tourists disregarding local customs and traditions. Remember that you are a guest in this beautiful country and should respect the culture by dressing conservatively when visiting temples (no shorts, tank tops, or tight clothing), being mindful of your actions, and making sure to never take anything from any of the Balinese temples.
Go Early to Beat the Crowds
Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and can get quite crowded at some of the more popular sites. To beat the crowds, make sure to go early in the morning or late in the evening and avoid going during peak tourist times (over Christmas/New Year’s).
Traffic is also a problem in Bali so limiting your travel time to early in the mornings or late in the evenings will allow you to spend more time exploring and less time in traffic.
Learn a Few Words
Bahasa Indonesian is the national language spoken by most of the locals in Bali. Make sure to learn a few words in Bahasa before you leave. Here are a few to get you started:
Terimakasih – Thank you
Sama Sama – You’re welcome
Selamat datang – Welcome
Ya – Yes
Tidak – No
Sampai Jumpa – Goodbye
Be Careful Around the Monkeys
Monkeys are everywhere in Bali and they are super cute but don’t be fooled – they can get aggressive. Make sure to always keep your food away from them and never try to touch or feed one!
Have Cash On Hand
While most larger restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand. Many smaller shops and markets still only accept cash as payment so make sure you have some Indonesian Rupiah in your wallet!
How much money should you bring to Bali for 10 days?
What To Pack For 10 Days in Bali
There are only two seasons in Bali: wet and dry. Check the Bali weather by month before you go to get a good idea about how much rain you can expect. But, no matter when you visit Bali you can expect the temperatures to average in the low to mid-80s Fahrenheit.
Here is a quick list of items you should make sure to pack for your 10 days in Bali:
- Light, breathable clothing
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- A hat or visor
- Comfortable sandals
- Swimsuit (maybe 2 or 3)
- Sarong – great for temple visits!
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Water bottle
Wrap-Up: Bali Itinerary 10 Days
Bali is a beautiful destination to explore and with the right preparation, you can make sure your 10 days in Bali are full of fun, adventure, and relaxation. From avoiding Bali belly to indulging in traditional Balinese cuisine and respecting local customs, there’s plenty for visitors to do while exploring this amazing place. Make sure to go early or late to beat the crowds, learn some words in Bahasa Indonesian before visiting, be careful around monkeys, have cash on hand at all times, and pack appropriately so that you’re ready for whatever comes your way! With these tips under your belt you’ll surely have an unforgettable experience during your time here.