A Day in Ubud: What to See & Do for the Best Experience

If you’re spending a day in Ubud, you’ll want to make the most of your time by visiting iconic landmarks, exploring lush rice terraces, indulging in delicious local cuisine and perhaps even discovering hidden gems along the way. For the best experience, consider booking tours in Bali with a private driver Bali or opting for a Bali car hire service. This allows you to explore Ubud at your own pace without having to worry about transportation. You can also opt for a Bali Instagram tour that takes you to the most photogenic spots on the island. If you prefer flexibility, you can rent a car in Bali and explore Ubud on your own.Here’s a perfect itinerary to make the most of your a day in Ubud:

Morning: Start Your Day with Nature & Culture a day in Ubud

Tegalalang Rice Terraces – A Stunning Sunrise Spot a day in Ubud

Start you’re a day in Ubud early and head to Tegalalang Rice Terraces, one of the most breathtaking landscapes in Ubud. The morning light makes the lush green fields look even more magical, and you can walk through the terraces while learning about the traditional subak irrigation system. This location is also a top highlight of the Bali Instagram Tour, so don’t forget to capture some amazing photos!

• Opening Hours: 06:00 AM – 06:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: Around IDR 15,000 per person
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid the crowds and heat

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary – Meet the Playful Monkeys

Next, make your way a day in Ubud the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a thriving habitat for hundreds of long-tailed macaques. This verdant woodland serves as more than just a home for these primate’s great place to see monkeys in their natural habitat but also a significant cultural site with ancient temple ruins hidden among the trees. Be cautious with your belongings, as the monkeys can be quite mischievous.

• Opening Hours: 08:30 AM – 06:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: IDR 80,000 for adults, IDR 60,000 for children
• Pro Tip: Keep your sunglasses, water bottles, and small bags secure

Ubud Palace & Saraswati Temple – A Glimpse of Balinese Royalty

A day in Ubud brief drive from the Monkey Forest brings you to Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung), the former residence of Ubud’s royal family. Adjacent to it stands Saraswati Temple, renowned for its beautiful lotus pond and elaborate carvings. Both attractions are free to enter and ideal for a short cultural visit.

• Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon
• Entrance Fee: Free

Afternoon: Indulge in Local Flavors & Art

Lunch with a View – Try Balinese Cuisine

By now, you’ll likely be hungry. Ubud is famous for its healthy cafés and traditional warungs, offering everything from smoothie bowls to Babi Guling (suckling pig) and Nasi Campur. For a meal with a view, head to a restaurant overlooking rice fields, such as Sayan House or Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck Diner).

Ubud Art Market – Shop for Unique Souvenirs

After lunch, take a stroll through the Ubud Art Market (Pasar Seni Ubud), where you can find handcrafted souvenirs, paintings, textiles, and jewelry. Bargaining is part of the shopping experience, so don’t hesitate to negotiate the price!

• Opening Hours: 06:00 AM – 06:00 PM
• Best Buys: Batik fabrics, wooden carvings, silver jewelry, and rattan bags

Campuhan Ridge Walk – A Scenic Afternoon Stroll a day in Ubud

If you need a break from the busy streets, Campuhan Ridge Walk is a perfect place to relax. This easy trek offers breathtaking views of rolling hills and rice fields, making it a great spot for some quiet reflection or photography.

• Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for cooler weather
• Entrance Fee: Free

Evening: Unwind & Experience Ubud’s Nightlife

Relax with a Balinese Massage

After a day in Ubud of exploring, treat yourself to a Balinese massage at one of Ubud’s many spas. Some popular choices include Karma Spa, Karsa Spa, or Ubud Traditional Spa. A traditional Balinese massage is a perfect way to relieve stress and rejuvenate your body.

• Duration: 60-90 minutes
• Price Range: IDR 150,000 – 500,000

Watch A Traditional Balinese Dance Performance A Day In Ubud

Before ending you’re a day in Ubud, watch a Balinese dance performance at Ubud Palace or Pura Dalem Ubud. The most famous dance is the Legong Dance, known for its graceful movements and vibrant costumes. This experience will give you a deeper appreciation of Bali’s cultural heritage.

• Show Time: 07:30 PM – 09:00 PM
• Ticket Price: Around IDR 100,000

Enjoy a Romantic Dinner or a Night Out

For dinner, choose a cozy restaurant like Mozaic, offering a fine-dining experience, or Locavore, known a day in Ubud for its modern twist on traditional Indonesian dishes. If you want a laid-back nightlife experience, visit one of Ubud’s jazz bars or rooftop lounges for a cocktail under the stars.

How to Get Around Ubud

Bali Car Hire & Private Driver in Bali

Since Ubud’s attractions are spread out, the best way to explore a day in Ubud is by hiring a private driver Bali or using a Bali car hire service. This ensures convenience, safety, and a personalized itinerary. If you prefer flexibility, you can rent a car in Bali and drive yourself, but keep in mind that traffic in Bali can be challenging for first-time visitors.

Tours in Bali – Make the Most of Your Trip

If you want a hassle-free experience, consider booking tours in Bali that cover Ubud’s top attractions. Many tour packages include transportation, a local guide, and entrance fees, making it a great option for a day in Ubud those who want a well-organized itinerary.

Spending a day in Ubud is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture or relaxation. From the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces to the Sacred Monkey Forest and the vibrant Ubud Art Market, there’s something for every traveller. Whether you choose to explore on your own with a Bali car hire or opt for a private Bali driver, you’re sure to have an amazing day in this magical town.

Ready to explore Ubud? Book your Bali Instagram tour or Bali car hire today and start your adventure with Bali Touristic. Check out our TripAdvisor before you decide where to go on holiday in Bali.