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Sitting at the very heart of the Island, Ubud is Bali's spiritual, artistic, and cultural centre. The vibrant town is packed with markets, historic palaces, artist studios, and yoga shalas, while lush rice terraces, magnificent waterfalls, and historic temples are just a short distance away.
Ubud is one of our favourite places in Bali, and somewhere we visit regularly to try to see and do everything it has to offer. Whether it's relaxing at a beautiful jungle club or taking part in one of the many thrilling adventure activities around town, there are so many fantastic things to do in Ubud. We've shared our favourites in this guide.
Ubud Map
Top Things to Do in Ubud
1. Shop at Ubud Art Market

It doesn't take long in Ubud to see what the town is most famous for... its markets!
Central Ubud is packed with busy arts and crafts markets, selling everything from local woodcarvings and colourful paintings to sarongs, rattan bags, and jewellery. You'll also find plenty of tourist souvenirs like t-shirts, magnets, and key rings.



Our favourite sections of Ubud Art Market sit along Jalan Arjuna and in a large new venue on the corner opposite Ubud Palace. But there are market stalls all over the town centre - they're not difficult to find!
Bargaining is a must! The markets are super touristy, and the traders purposely start their prices high. We usually manage to get them down to at least 50% of their starting price.
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2. Visit the iconic Ubud Palace

Right in the centre of town, Ubud Palace, also known as Puri Saren Agung, dates back to the early 1800s and is a beautiful example of traditional Balinese architecture.
While the historic landmark is still the official residence of the Ubud Royal Family, several of the palace's pavilions and courtyards are open to the public.
The palace is free to visit and one of our favourite places for a brief escape from the busy markets outside. It's only small and takes around 15 minutes to explore. On our most recent visit, we had to stand in a short line for some of the best photo ops around the complex.
Did you know you can stay within the Ubud Palace grounds? Part of the palace complex is home to the small Saren Kauh Hotel, with a handful of simple yet stylish rooms. Guests get free entry to the evening dances.
3. Watch a traditional Legong dance performance

While you can visit Ubud Palace for free during the day, the only way to enter in the evening is by buying a ticket for the nightly Legong dance performance.
Legong is a traditional form of Balinese dance, characterised by intricate finger movements, complicated footwork, and intense facial expressions. It was once a form of royal entertainment, and many of the dances act out traditional Balinese stories and legends.
The Legong performance is one of the most popular things to do in Ubud at night, taking place at the palace every evening at 7:30pm. We always try to arrive by at least 7pm to get a good seat. The show lasts roughly 1-1.5 hours.
Book Now: Legong Dance at Ubud Palace
4. Or see a kecak fire dance by night

Kecak is another of our favourite styles of traditional Balinese dance. It tells stories from the Hindu epic, Ramayana, and is performed by a chorus of men who chant “cak-cak-cak” and dance rhythmically, complete with a fiery climax.
While Bali's best-known Kecak fire dance takes place at Uluwatu Temple, we recently discovered that you can enjoy this unique performance in Ubud too. We found the Ubud experience much more intimate as the venue is smaller and you're closer to the performers.
The kecak dance performances in Ubud are held at four different venues, which vary by day of the week:
Monday & Wednesday at Agung Rai Museum of Art
Sunday & Tuesday at Pura Dalem Kutuh Kaja
Saturday at Desa lan Puseh Temple
Thursday at Peliatan Palace Ubud
Book Now: Kecak Fire Dance in Ubud
5. Join a walking tour with Ubud Story Walks

Ubud is a town that's absolutely packed with history, hidden between its colourful arts markets and modern restaurants. And the best way to learn about this history is on a walking tour with Ubud Story Walks.
We joined their "Past to Present" tour, which took us on a journey through Ubud's cultural heritage while visiting a temple, palace, museum, and a few other secret spots. It was a great introduction to the history of Ubud and wider Bali.
Our walk took around 3.5 hours in total and was led by two of the loveliest local guides, who shared their own insights and experiences and really felt like friends by the end of our tour.
The Past to Present tour is definitely one of the best things to do in Ubud for first-time visitors, especially if you have an interest in history. Story Walks also offers a couple of other tours that provide a deeper dive into specific areas, but we haven't yet tried these.
Book Now: Ubud Story Walks
6. Visit Ubud Water Palace

Ubud Water Palace is another iconic historical landmark in central Ubud, known for its large lotus ponds, fountains, symmetrical walkway, and traditional architecture. The palace is dedicated to the Hindu goddess of learning, Saraswati.
Back when we first came to Bali several years ago, the palace was free to enter. But now, entry costs 60,000 IDR ⓘ, which includes a (unusual) purple outfit and several photo spots, including two royal thrones right at the centre.



The site is fairly small and visiting only takes 10-15 minutes. It can get very busy and is now a little overly touristy in our opinion. Rather than going inside, we prefer to stop for a drink at Cafe Lotus next door and enjoy the view over the palace while people watching.
Ubud Water Palace also hosts nightly traditional dance performances (see full schedule), with tickets costing 100,000 IDR ⓘ per person. You can watch the shows from Cafe Lotus when you prebook a table in advance for dinner.
7. Meet the monkeys at Ubud Monkey Forest

The Sacred Monkey Forest is one of the top attractions in Ubud. It's a large nature reserve filled with ancient temples, rivers, and lush forests. But, most importantly, it's home to over a thousand cheeky free-roaming long-tailed macaques.
The reserve is one of the most famous places to see monkeys in Bali. It's a beautiful spot to take a stroll around while watching them play and interact in their natural habitat. However, there are a few things to note before you visit.
With hundreds of visitors every day, the monkeys have become fairly accustomed to people. Maybe a little too much so. We've seen monkeys steal people's belongings on several occasions (use the on-site lockers or have a super secure bag!).



The monkeys may approach you and even jump on you. I don't mind it as much, but Kieren really does not enjoy this! If this doesn't sound like fun, try to avoid the areas where people are feeding and taking photos with them.
For a slightly less chaotic experience, we also like the alternative Sangeh Monkey Forest, around a 30-minute drive west of the town centre. This protected forest is also home to an ancient temple and hundreds of macaques, but it has smaller crowds, calmer monkeys, and was a more enjoyable experience.
Book Now: Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest (130,000 IDR ⓘ for adults, 100,000 for children)
8. Enjoy the views from one of Ubud's scenic walking trails

When we need to escape the crowds of the busy town centre for a while, one of our favourite things to do in Ubud is to take a peaceful stroll along the scenic walking trails in the north of town.
Campuhan Ridge Walk - The most popular trail in Ubud. This 2km path starts near Campuhan Bridge and Pura Gunung Lebah temple, and takes you through lush greenery with valley views on both sides. It takes around 25 minutes each way, and there are a few cafes at the furthest point. Try the tiramisu at Mamoo Cafe!
Sweet Orange Walk - Also starts from town (behind the Puri Lukisan Museum) but offers a quieter, prettier, and slightly less-trodden route through rice paddies and palm forests. We always stop for a coconut and snack at the lovely Sweet Orange Warung at the end of the trail.

Mancingan Rice Terrace Trek - Much further north of town, this is the most scenic trail in our opinion, with a small path winding through a row of towering palm trees and sweeping rice terraces in every direction. The walk is only 10 minutes each way, but if it's a dreamy photo spot (great for drones!) you're looking for, this is it!
All of these walks are best done early morning or late afternoon (golden hour is our fave time) to avoid the worst of Bali's midday heat.
9. Discover Ubud's artistic heritage at its museums

Ubud is famous for its rich artistic heritage. For centuries, it's been a hub for artists inspired by Balinese Hindu culture and royal support. In the 1900s, many European artists also came to Ubud, blending local traditions with modern styles, which you can explore its the town's many art galleries.
Museum Puri Lukisan - The oldest art gallery in Ubud, dating back to the 1950s. Right in the town centre, it's home to many traditional Balinese paintings and woodcarvings, as well as works by European artists, across several buildings. We visited this museum on our tour with Ubud Story Walks and loved getting an in-depth description of some of the works.
Neka Art Museum - Another of our favourite galleries in Ubud, with a beautiful collection of Balinese artwork. Currently houses some famous pieces by the iconic Dutch-Indonesian painter Arie Smit. Also has a large cultural display dedicated to the Balinese Kris, a traditional ceremonial sword.
While we always enjoy visiting the town's art galleries, they’re one of the best things to do in Ubud on a rainy day when outdoor adventures aren’t possible.

Best Museums & Galleries in Bali
Read Now →10. Relax at a luxurious jungle pool club

Much like South Bali's beach clubs, inland Ubud is known for its many jungle clubs. Hidden within the lush tropical jungles, these unique pool clubs are our go-to for soaking in the area's natural beauty while relaxing in cascading infinity pools and sipping on extravagant cocktails.
Most of the jungle clubs are located on the outskirts of Ubud. The majority have an entrance fee or minimum spend. These are some of our favourites:
Cretya - The most famous jungle club in Ubud, with three layered pools, jacuzzis, lots of daybeds and netted hammocks, and a 360° DJ deck, all overlooking the rice terraces below. The pool club belongs to Alas Harum, which also has a restaurant and many photo ops, including several Bali swings. Entrance costs 150,000 IDR ⓘ (incl. first drink). There's a lively, party vibe here most days.
Cretya Sunset - Our favourite pool club in Ubud for a more laid-back and less crowded experience. The spacious club has a large pool, as well as a row of jacuzzis that overlook the rice terraces. It gets busier from 3-4pm onwards as people come to enjoy the epic sunset view.

D Tukad Coffee Club - Huge multi-level cafe and restaurant with several pools cascading down toward the famous Tegalalang Rice Terraces. There's currently only a 100,000 IDR ⓘ fee to use the pools, which includes a towel and drink.
Jungle Club Ubud - One of Ubud's newest day clubs, situated to the south of the town centre. It has an upmarket yet chilled vibe, with infinity pools overlooking the jungle, plenty of seating areas, and a rather unusual cave pool. Live DJs play every weekend, creating more of a vibe. Free entry, but all seating areas have a minimum spend.

Our Favourite Pool Clubs in Ubud
Read Now →11. Trek through the famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces

While there are many rice terraces all over Bali, Tegallalang is the one that has gained the most online fame and has therefore become one of the top places to visit in Ubud.
Recognised by UNESCO as part of Bali's culturally important subak irrigation system, the lush green rice terraces cascade down the rolling hills, embraced by dense jungle on all sides. There's no denying that it's one of the most picturesque spots on the island.
There are set paths through the rice paddies to explore. But bear in mind that Tegallalang is still active farming land, so be respectful of local workers and stick to the designated paths.

Most drivers and tours will take you to the rice terrace entrance at Uma Ceking (here), where you need to pay 50,000 IDR ⓘ to enter.
You can also visit one of the other cafes and restaurants around Tegallalang Rice Terraces. From many of these, you can wander down into the terraces for free if you buy something.
Many of the cafes and restaurants around the terraces have jungle swings and ziplines. You can even rent a flowy dress to get the full Bali Insta-swing effect (we've never actually done it ourselves!).
There's now a mandatory 25,000 IDR ⓘ tourist tax for anyone visiting the Tegallalang Rice Terraces (even if you're going to the restaurants). Ticket wardens wander along the main street collecting the fee as you park. Be sure to bring cash for this.
12. Experience a traditional Balinese water purification ritual

"Melukat" is a well-known Balinese purification ritual that involves bathing and praying under a series of holy spring fountains. The ritual is said to cleanse your mind and body, and has become a popular experience among visitors.
To the north of Ubud, Pura Tirta Empul is one of the most famous temples in Bali where tourists can take part in melukat. The water temple is famous for its holy spring waters, which are believed to have healing properties.
However, Tirta Empul temple has become so well known for its water ceremonies that there are often huge crowds and long lines during peak times. The best way to avoid the crowds is to arrive early in the morning - we visited around 7:30am and were the first people there.


If you'd rather avoid the crowds altogether, we'd definitely recommend visiting one of the lesser-known water temples near Ubud to take part in melukat. Some other places we've done water purification around Ubud are:
Taman Beji Griya - A beautiful sacred site in West Ubud that’s home to a series of temples, caves, and huge waterfalls. We walked around the many different shrines and gave offerings before taking part in the purification ritual in the fountains and letting go of negative energy by screaming into the waterfalls. There's a set price of 300,000 IDR, which includes the sarong, the purification experience, a guide, and a hot drink.
Sebatu Water Temple - The most similar experience to Tirta Empul, but without the big crowds. Lovely water temple at the bottom of a scenic valley, with a row of holy spring fountains and a huge koi pond. Information desk for tourists with the option for a guide.
Pura Mengening - Just a few minutes' drive from Tirta Empul, this was the most local and authentic purification experience we had. However, there are no guides to take you through the ritual (or take photos), so you either need to come with a guide or know what you're doing. We performed the ritual ourselves (having done it multiple times), with a little guidance and a blessing from the local priest.
13. Explore the ancient ruins of Pura Gunung Kawi

Just down the street from Tirta Empul is Pura Gunung Kawi, one of Bali's most ancient archaeological sites, which offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Balinese civilization and is a must-visit for those interested in the island's history.
The temple complex is home to a series of 11th-century royal tombs (aka "candis") carved into the cliff face. The ten huge shrines sit over 7m (23 ft) high and are surrounded by dense jungle, giving them a real Tomb Raider-esque feel.
The tombs are thought to have been built by King Anak Wungsu as a tribute to his father, the great Balinese ruler Udayana, and the Warmadewa Dynasty.
The ruins are 30 minutes north of Ubud. Entrance costs 50,000 IDR ⓘ and includes use of a sarong. From the entrance, we had to walk down a steep, winding staircase to reach the ruins, so we wouldn't recommend it for anyone with mobility issues.

The tombs at Pura Gunung Kawi are similar to those found on the neighboring island of Java - which is unsurprising as the Hindu people of Bali originally came from Java.
14. Visit the unusual elephant cave

Goa Gajah, or the Elephant Cave, is one of the more unique attractions in Ubud. The 1,000-year-old Hindu shrine sits inside a small cave covered in carvings of mythological creatures. Bizarrely, none of the creatures are elephants, so we're not sure where the name comes from!
The origins of the unusual cave are uncertain, but many believe it was dug out by hand by Hindu priests as a place for spiritual meditation.
We entered the cave through the gaping mouth of one of the creatures. Inside, we were greeted with a cloud of white smoke from the baskets of burning incense.


Other than the cave, the complex has a series of bathing pools and statues, as well as the remains of a temple destroyed by an earthquake. There's also an ancient Buddhist temple a couple of minutes walk away, leading some to believe the cave was once an important Buddhist site too.
Entrance to Goa Gajah costs 50,000 IDR ⓘ per person and includes a sarong. A short but steep staircase leads from the car park down to the temples.
Guides wait inside the complex and will offer you a guided tour with stories from the site for a fee. This is completely optional, so don't feel obliged to say yes. One quoted us 100,000 IDR ⓘ, but we decided to explore on our own.
15. Search for waterfalls around Ubud

Ubud is a fantastic base for exploring many of our favourite waterfalls in Bali. Some of the best waterfalls to visit close to Ubud include:
Sumampan Waterfall - A hidden gem in an old quarry southeast of Ubud. Short but steep walk down from the road. Plenty of room to swim in the river and enjoy the falls without crowds. You need to paddle across the river using a rope to access the waterfall itself. Bring swimwear. Don't miss the carvings in the rocks around the falls. Entrance fee 20,000 IDR.
Suwat Waterfall - Small waterfall with a deep pool for swimming and rocks you can jump off. There's a bamboo boat you can take some cool photos on (donation-based). Fairly easy to access via staircase. Walk takes 5-10 minutes. Close by shop with showers and a changing area. Entrance fee 25,000 IDR.
Kanto Lampo Waterfall - This is the iconic Ubud waterfall that you see all over social media. And while the cascading waterfall is definitely an impressive sight and makes for some great photos, it's become a little too busy for our liking. Expect a big line leading into the water to snap your photos. Not a place for a relaxing soak. Entrance fee 25,000 IDR.

Best Day Trips From Ubud
Read Now →Best Classes & Workshops in Ubud
Ubud is Bali's craft centre, with studios packed with local craftsmen and women perfecting their arts. There's everything from traditional artist studios to woodworkers, tailors, and more, with many offering classes and workshops for beginners.
16. Make your own silver jewellery

If you find Ubud's craft markets a little overwhelming (we don't blame you), you can make your own Bali souvenir at a traditional jewellery-making class. Ubud is famous for its silversmiths, with many offering classes at their local studios.
We took a class with Ubud Silversmith. With the help of an experienced silversmith, we learnt how to melt, mould, and shape silver to produce our own rings. It was a lot of fun, but much harder (and sweatier) work than we thought it'd be.
This jewellery-making class was one of our Ubud highlights and is now something we always recommend to friends when they visit. It's a great activity for couples, friends, or families looking for a unique activity in Ubud. Most classes last 1.5-2 hours. Make sure to book in advance.
Book Now: Ubud Silversmith Jewellery Making Class
17. Try traditional "batik" painting


Another of our favourite workshop experiences in Ubud was a batik class at Five Arts Studio. The traditional Indonesian art of "batik", or fabric painting, involves using hot wax and colourful dyes to create elaborate designs.
Our experience started with choosing a design and tracing it onto a piece of fabric. We then used a special hot wax pen to go over the design, which was definitely the hardest part. Next, we coloured our designs using bright fabric paints, which pleasingly spread between the wax lines.
After drying, the fabric was soaked in hot water to remove the wax, leaving the final designs exposed and us with two beautiful homemade sarongs in just a few hours.
Book now: Batik Class at Five Arts Studio
18. Join a pottery class at Ubud's prettiest ceramics studio

Just on the outskirts of central Ubud, Serayu Pottery has gained online fame thanks to its unique and picturesque exterior covered in thousands of colourful ceramics. There's even a tunnel of painted mugs you can walk through.
The shop has become so popular that the owner now charges 10,000 IDR ⓘ if you want to take photos around the property, which is fair enough given the effort he puts into creating and maintaining it.
Or, for the full experience, you can learn how to make your own colourful ceramics at a pottery workshop at Serayu. During the class, you learn how to use a pottery wheel and form your own creations. At the end of the class, you can choose which items you want fired, glazed, and shipped to you (extra fee).
Book Now: Pottery Workshop at Serayu
19. Learn to play traditional gamelan in a Balinese music class

Gamelan is a traditional Balinese orchestra that features metal and bamboo xylophone-type instruments played together to create rich, layered sounds. It’s usually played in religious ceremonies and dance performances.
After seeing gamelan on countless occasions across Bali, we decided to join a gamelan class in Ubud with the talented Putu, a respected local musician and teacher.
In our class, Putu began by sharing the history and cultural significance of gamelan, followed by a demonstration. Then it was our turn. We each got to try different instruments, learning how to keep rhythm and play a tune together as an ensemble, which is much more challenging than it looks.
Putu was a fantastic and extremely patient teacher who made the experience fun and accessible, even for beginners. By the end of the session, we were (almost) playing in sync (hear us play here) and had a whole new appreciation for the skill and coordination that gamelan music requires.
Book Now: Gamelan Music Class with Putu
Spiritual and Wellness Experiences in Ubud
20. Get zen with a yoga class in Ubud

Ubud is Bali's spiritual centre and the best place on the island to practice yoga. Whether you're a total beginner or an experienced yogi, there are countless beautiful open-air yoga shalas around Ubud.
Taking a yoga class in Ubud also tends to be more comfortable than in the coastal areas, with slightly cooler daytime temperatures in the jungle.
Some of my favourite yoga studios in Ubud are:
The Yoga Barn - One of the most popular yoga studios in Ubud. Located in a beautiful bamboo shala with jungle views. Offers a wide variety of yoga classes, meditation, sound healing, dance, and many other special events.
Radiantly Alive - A large studio with a fantastic variety of yoga classes every day. It's also a popular spot for yoga teacher training. Cosy downstairs lounge area and a cafe with a tasty plant-based menu.
Intuitive Flow - A smaller and more intimate studio in a quiet area in the west of Ubud. Offers dedicated beginner classes, calming gentle yoga, and some more advanced classes.
21. Experience ancient sound healing at The Pyramids of Chi

Take your spiritual journey one step further with an ancient sound healing session at The Pyramids of Chi. Just north of Ubud, these 3 unusual Pyramids are built to scale with the Great Pyramid of Giza and together form one of the largest dedicated sound healing venues in the world.
The pyramids invoke the "combination of Pyramid Power, Sacred Geometry, Polar Alignment, Ancient Sounds, and the magical energy of Bali." In simpler terms, you lie inside the pyramid while soothing sounds from instruments like singing bowls, gongs, chimes, and flutes help calm your mind and body.
The idea is that the vibrations and frequencies emitted by these sounds can help restore harmony within us. And the pyramid shape helps harness this. Kieren was so calm and relaxed that he slept his way through most of our session!
As well as ancient sound healing, the Pyramids of Chi also offers light therapy, cacao ceremonies, breath and voice workshops, spiritual awakening, full moon ceremonies, and so much more. A true Ubud experience.
Top Adventure Activities in Ubud
22. Explore Ubud's jungles on an ATV adventure

ATVs are one of our favourite Ubud activities and an exciting way to experience the area's stunning natural surroundings. On an ATV tour, you can race your way through the area's dense jungles, discovering secret caves, valleys, and waterfalls along the way.
Numerous companies offer ATV adventures around Ubud, with most taking a similar route. Prices can vary a lot. But as a rough guide, you should expect to pay around 350,000-550,000 IDR ⓘ per person, depending on whether you want a tandem or solo bike.

We went with Beji River Adventure, which was reasonably priced and included the famous Gorilla Face Cave. We raced through muddy riverbeds and passed under waterfalls, so we were pretty wet and filthy by the end of the experience.
Waterproof boots were provided, but make sure to wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty. There are showers and changing rooms at the end.
Book Now: ATV Tour With Beji River Adventure
23. Go white water rafting on the Ayung River

White water rafting is another of our fave adrenaline-packed adventures around Ubud. Nearby Ayung River is a fantastic place to go rafting in Bali, with class II and III rapids that are suitable for all ages and levels. The river cuts through the stunning Ubud countryside, with plenty of exciting drops and turns.
Most rafting adventures take you along a 10km stretch of the river. We were out on the raft for around 1.5-2 hours, including a mid-way pit stop at a waterfall for photos and a drink.


Each raft can fit up to 4 guests and the instructor. We went with a group of 6 friends, so we had to be split between a couple of rafts (girls vs boys, of course!). The instructor did most of the steering for us, telling us when to paddle and duck, making the experience feel fun yet safe.
The dry season is the best time to go rafting in Ubud for beginners, as the rapids tend to be less intense. During the rainy season, some rapids can increase to a class IV, making it a little more daunting.
Book Now: Ayung River Rafting Adventure
24. Go downhill carting through the jungles of northern Ubud

Jungle Carts Bali is one of the more adventurous activities we've tried in Ubud. This new experience lets you live out your real-life Mario Kart dream by speeding through Bali's jungles and rural villages on a gravity-powered tricycle.
After being driven from the office in Ubud Centre to the starting point, around 40 minutes north of town, we geared up with a helmet and got a quick safety briefing before hopping into a cart and setting off.
Despite not having an engine, the carts are deceptively fast, hitting impressive speeds as you zoom down the 4.5km jungle track. We were speeding down hills, swerving around corners, and flying over speed bumps along the way.
As you can see from our photos, we weren’t the luckiest with the weather on the day we took part. But once we committed to getting drenched, the torrential rain made the experience surprisingly more fun (and chaotic). Don’t be afraid to book the carts during the wet season.
Book Now: Jungle Carts Bali
25. Climb Mount Batur for sunrise

Located an hour north of Ubud, Mount Batur is the island's second-tallest volcano. Summiting Batur for sunrise is one of the most popular things to do in Bali, and Ubud makes a great base for doing it (if you'd rather not stay in Kintamani itself).
There are two main ways of climbing Mount Batur: a two-hour hike or a jeep tour. We've done both and found them very different but equally fun experiences. Hiking gave us a greater sense of achievement, while the jeep was a cosier and easier experience. Both had amazing sunrise views!
No matter which you choose, you need to leave Ubud extremely early. Most tours pick you up around 1:30-2am in Ubud to start climbing by 3-3:30am (the jeeps start around an hour later).
Book Now: Mount Batur Experiences
Things to Do in Ubud for Foodies
26. Join an Ubud food tour with Bali Culinary Tours

Finding delicious food in Ubud isn't difficult, with its wide selection of local warungs, healthy/vegan cafes, and upscale restaurants. But if you want to discover some hidden gems that most tourists miss, we recommend taking a food tour with Bali Culinary Tours.
We joined their Ubud Food & Culture Tour, which started at 11am and lasted almost 4 hours as we ate our way through 6 different restaurants. We tried several dishes at each stop, finishing with desserts and a Chinese tea ceremony - come hungry and make sure to pace yourself!


As well as Indonesian cuisine in a traditional Balinese home setting, we also tried some broader Asian-fusion dishes such as Chinese wontons, Javanese-style noodles, and Ayurvedic Indian curry.
Our lovely local guide, Ayu, provided us with an explanation of each dish and shared plenty of interesting facts about Balinese culture along the way.
Book Now: Bali Culinary Tours
27. Take an Ubud cooking class

Taking a local cooking class is our favourite way to experience local cuisine and culture, no matter where we go in the world. And Bali is no exception.
Ubud is one of the best places to take a cooking class in Bali, thanks to the region's many local farms and agrotourisms. We took a fantastic small-group cooking class with Bali Farm Cooking School and couldn't recommend it any more highly!
We started by picking our own ingredients from the on-site organic farm, before heading into the open-air kitchen to cook six authentic Balinese dishes, including satay, chicken curry, sweet and sour tempeh, and more.


After the class, there was plenty of time to enjoy our tasty creations and chat with the friendly staff about all things food. We even got a recipe book to take away with us to remember the dishes we made.
The farm is located around a 30-40 minute drive north of Ubud. Transfers from central Ubud are included in the price. You can choose between a morning or afternoon half-day session. Vegetarian dishes are also available.
28. Let your food choose you at Merlin's

Located in the heart of Ubud, Merlin's is one of the most unique dining experiences in Bali. It's the first restaurant in the world where "the food chooses you."
This means that you each receive a tarot reading as you first sit at your table. The three cards you pick not only represent your past, present, and future, but they also reveal your starter, main, and dessert.
You can either stick with the dishes chosen for you, or you can opt to swap any of them out for something else on the menu. Kieren stuck with all three of his dishes, whereas I'm a fussier eater and decided to pick from the menu.

No matter what you order, Merlin's is a magical experience from start to finish, with its mystical candle-lit tables, robed waiters, delicious and innovative dishes, and elaborate presentation (plenty of dry ice!).
Merlin's also hosts magical immersive theater and dinner shows in their hidden backroom bar, accessible through a secret library door in their magic shop.
29. Try tasty plant-based treats at Zest

Ubud is the place to go if you want healthy, nutritious, and delicious food in Bali. From colourful smoothie bowls to veggie-rich plant-based menus, Ubud has no shortage of soul and body-nourishing food. And nowhere does this healthy eating ethos shine better than Zest!
Zest is a cool bohemian restaurant in Ubud that focuses on locally grown, whole foods and plant-based cuisine. You won't find any animal products, refined sugar, or harmful oils in their dishes. Yet every single item is delicious, from the all-day breakfast to plant pizzas and colourful medicine bowls.
With their cosy sofas, gorgeous jungle views, free board games, and live music, we regularly lose a few hours over slow leisurely brunches at Zest. And who cares? That's what life in Ubud is about.

The name "Ubud" originated from the word “Ubad/Obat” (Balinese/Indonesian), which means medicine, as the area was an important source of medicinal herbs and plants.
30. Eat under the Angels at Taman Dedari

Just north of Ubud, Taman Dedari is a traditional Balinese resort and restaurant inside a beautiful garden with fish ponds and giant angel statues overlooking the Ayung Valley.
Standing at 10 meters in height, the four towering angels are the biggest draw to this restaurant. The statues were built by famous Balinese architect Dr. Tjok Gde Raka Sukawati and make a fantastic photo spot.
You can visit the statues and gardens for free by buying something at the restaurant - it's very affordable. We both had the Beef Rendang, which was super delicious!
There's an à la carte menu and plenty of tables, so no need to make a reservation. You can also pre-book an afternoon tea or set menu package.

The word "dedari" means “angel“ in the Balinese language. The name comes from the legend of Rishi Markandeya, an ancient Hindu saint, who saw an angel descend from the sky close to the Ayung River.
31. Wake up early for the Ubud Morning Market

If you're an early riser, head into the town centre and check out the Ubud Morning Market, which takes place around Jalan Raya and Jalan Suweta every day. We've hardly ever seen other tourists here. It's mostly locals shopping for fresh fruit, veggies, and fragrant spices.
Grab some traditional "Jaja Bali" for breakfast at the market. Jaja are small, sweet glutinous rice flour cakes that come in many forms and are served with sugar and shaved coconut. My favourite is Jaja Pisang Rai (banana cakes).
The market opens around 4-5am. By 8am, the morning traders start to pack up and are replaced by the daytime tourists and the better-known art market.
32. Try local specialties at Gianyar Night Market

For another local experience without the early wake-up call, head to Gianyar Night Market, one of the island's biggest and most popular local food markets.
The market is located in Gianyar, around a 30-minute drive east of Ubud. It's more popular among locals than visitors (we only saw a handful of other foreigners), making it a great place to escape the tourist crowds and enjoy a more local dining experience.

On our visit, we tried plenty of tasty local dishes, including a super authentic Babi Guling, Bali's most popular local dish, sate, and lots of Indonesian sweets.
The food market is open daily between 5-11pm. We visited on a night market tour with a local guide, but it's also possible to visit on your own. There are actually a few markets in Gianyar, but having been to them all, Pasar Senggol Gianyar (here) is the one we'd recommend visiting.
Book Now: Gianyar Night Market Food Tour
33. Tour a plant-based chocolate factory


Ubud is best known for its delicious health-conscious cuisine. And this mantra even extends to its chocolate!
JungleGold Bali sits just west of Ubud and is the world's very first fully plant-based chocolate factory. They use a unique blend of coconut, cashew milk, and cocoa butter to create delicious, creamy chocolate that's healthier and more sustainable than traditional dairy-based chocolate.
We’re not vegan, but we love all of their artisanal chocolate flavours and can hardly tell there's no dairy in them! In fact, it's our favourite chocolate in Bali!
At the Ubud factory, you can sample their many different chocolate varieties for free in the large cafe and shop. Or, for 100,000 IDR ⓘ pp, there's a fun agrotourism experience where you can tour the factory to learn how chocolate is produced in Bali. We even got to make our own chocolate bars!

Did you know that Bali’s tropical climate makes it an excellent spot for growing cocoa beans? There are numerous cocoa farms and chocolate factories across the island that are open to visitors, including Cau Chocolates and Primo Chocolab.
How To Get Around in Ubud

Central Ubud is very walkable, with many shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions all sitting close together - just watch your step on the uneven pavements!
While there is a public bus, most tourists avoid it as it's not easy to navigate and often ends up stuck in traffic. The best way to get around in Ubud is by scooter, as you'll skip past regular traffic jams that clog up the central roads.
We love using Bikago for scooter and motorbike rental. Their Ubud branch isn't far from the Monkey Forest (Google Maps), or you can book online and they'll drop off at your accommodation. We share our experience using them in our full guide to hiring scooter in Bali.
If you’re not confident driving yourself, Grab and Gojek are available Ubud. These are online taxi apps (similar to Uber) with the option of calling a fixed-price car or scooter taxi.
There are certain roads within the town centre where online taxis cannot pick up, though you can usually walk a little to find a suitable pick-up spot.
Many hotels around Ubud offer a free shuttle to the centre and back, either on demand or following a fixed timetable. It's always worth asking about this when you check in.

Bali Airport to Ubud (How To Get There)
Read Now →Where to Eat in Ubud

We've already mentioned a few of our favourite restaurants in this guide, such as vegan-haven Zest, the unusual Taman Dedari, and every stop on Bali Culinary Tours. But if you're looking for even more delicious food spots, here are some more that we love:
This is Bali Eatery - A new restaurant in central Ubud that's already become a must-visit thanks to its innovative modern Balinese cuisine and unique aesthetic (there's a floating table!).
Warung Pondok Madu - If Ubud's famous vegan scene isn't for you, head to this chilled local spot for their famous BBQ pork ribs. We stop for dinner here pretty much every time we're in Ubud.
Tukies Coconut Shop - The best coconut ice cream in town - trust us!

Our Favourite Restaurants in Ubud
Read Now →Where to Stay in Ubud


There's certainly no shortage of fantastic places to stay in Ubud, from budget-friendly homestays to luxury resorts and unusual bamboo villas. These are a few of our top suggestions...
Satya House [budget pick] - A lovely little family-run homestay with spacious private rooms, a small pool, and a tasty breakfast. The homestay is right in the heart of town, putting you walkable to most of Ubud's top attractions, including the markets, palaces, galleries, and countless restaurants. Plus, it's super affordable.
Kaamala Luxury Resort [luxury pick] – Our favourite boutique resort in Ubud, sitting close to the Monkey Forest, with a collection of stylish pool villas and suites, stunning jungle and rice terrace views, a large infinity pool, spa, and three fantastic on-site restaurants.
The Stone House [unique pick] - A luxurious boutique eco-resort with six distinctive villas nestled amongst the jungles of northern Ubud. Their bamboo treehouse is, without a doubt, one of the coolest places we've ever stayed in Bali!

Where to Stay in Ubud (Area & Hotel Guide)
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