Ultimate 7-Day Bali Itinerary
Seven days in Bali is the absolute minimum, as there is so much to see and do. Although a week may seem short, by using this step-by-step route, you can still get a real taste of the island. We’ve also included our recommendations for the best places to stay in each area, as well as transport options so you can get the most out of your time 7-day Bali itinerary.
On the other hand, if you are after cheaper accommodation, you’re better off staying in Seminyak while following this Bali itinerary. This area also has more beautiful beaches and boasts some of the most popular beach clubs on the island.
Note: It is around a 20-minute drive between the two towns or a 40-minute walk along the beachfront.
What to do in the area
Beach and Surf
Canggu has some of the most popular waves in Bali! Although its black sand beaches aren’t the most beautiful, they’re a great place to watch the sun go down and see the surfers catch the last waves of the day.
In Canggu, head to La Brisa or The Lawn, which both have a chilled-out atmosphere and lovely ocean views. La Brisa also has a great Sunday farmers market, where you can browse stalls filled with fresh produce and cute handicrafts.
In Seminyak, don’t miss a visit to Potato Head Beach Club or Mari Beach Club, which, apart from being fun places to hang out for the day, have some incredible design features!
Great Food
There is a fantastic food scene in both Canggu and Seminyak. Both towns have no shortage of trendy brunch spots and hipster cafes, while Seminyak is a little more high-end, with some spectacular restaurants right on the beach. The beach clubs in both towns are also great places to grab a poolside lunch, with ocean views and world-famous DJ sets.
Tanah Lot Temple
Purah Tanah Lot is a stunning seaside temple in Canggu. The sacred site sits on top of a beautiful rock formation and is the best place to watch the sun go down. Come here at golden hour, and watch the waves crash beneath you and beautiful light flood the temple, which was built to honor the Balinese sea gods.
Entrance Fee: 60,000 IDR (4 USD)
How to Get to Canggu and Seminyak
Canggu and Seminyak are very close to one another, and both are easily reachable from Ngurah Rai International Airport. It will take around 35-45 minutes to drive to Seminyak and 45 minutes to an hour to reach Canggu. This is all dependent on traffic, particularly during the high season when you can expect queues. A taxi from the airport costs approximately 300,000 IDR (~ 20 USD).
Where to Stay in Canggu and Seminyak
Since you will probably spend most of your time at the beach on your Bali itinerary, it makes sense to base yourself in the coastal areas to save on transport.
For Canggu, the most central places are Batu Bolong and Berewa, where there are loads of great cafes, restaurants, and beach clubs close by, as well as great surf spots.
In Seminyak, stay around Jalan Kayu Aya street, also known as ‘Eat Street’, for its great variety of restaurants. This street is also just a 10-minute walk from the beach.
Day 2 + 3: Ubud
After a day by the beach, it’s time to head inland to check out the cultural and spiritual hub of Bali! There is so much to see and do in Ubud that it’s best to allocate at least two days on your 7-day Bali itinerary to enjoy its stunning natural scenery, fascinating culture, and lively art scene. It is also one of the more popular tourist destinations on the island, so we recommend hiring a driver for hassle-free exploring.
What to do in the area
Tegalalang
These stunning rice terraces just 20 minutes from Ubud center are a must-see, with beautiful green valleys, towering palm trees, and multiple levels of beautifully tended paddies to explore.
Ubud Art Market
The Ubud Art Market is held every day from 9 AM in the central square. The market is full of beautiful handmade goods like woven handbags, leather, and jewelry, most of which are made locally in nearby villages and make excellent souvenirs to take home.
Campuhan Ridge or Rice Field Walk
One of the most popular things to do on any Bali itinerary is to visit Campuhan Ridge at sunset. This is a popular 2 km route to the next village that worms its way over the lush green hill. It is particularly popular with local people who come to exercise or walk their dogs. The place is also very sacred as it is the meeting point of two parallel rivers, and many come here to meditate or cleanse themselves in the water.
Alternatively, take a peaceful wander through the rice fields, a 45-minute stroll where you can see the beautiful countryside and local life. Best of all, there are plenty of cafes along the route to stop and take in the serene surroundings. Read more about Ubud here.
Tirta Empul Temple
Pura Tirta Empul is an ancient Hindu water temple used for the sacred cleansing ritual known as melukat for over 1000 years. Bathing in the holy spring water is an incredibly unique experience for visitors to Ubud. The UNESCO world heritage site is one of the only temples in Bali where tourists are allowed to take part in this sacred ritual alongside locals.
Goa Raja Waterfall
This beautiful waterfall hidden inside a huge cave is a lovely place to spend an afternoon away from the heat. Take the short 15-minute hike to the cave along a small river, with moss-covered paths leading the way through the thick green jungle. Take a refreshing dip in this secluded spot away from the crowds, which is a 45-minute drive from the center of Ubud, and a must-see on your 7-day Bali itinerary. Book directly through our friend Yande.
Monkey Forest
The Monkey Forest is one of Bali’s most famous tourist destinations and for good reason. The sacred monkey sanctuary is home to over 700 long-tailed monkeys. They roam freely around the huge forest (a very special and spiritual place for the Balinese). You can easily spend over two hours here exploring the area, marveling at ancient trees and temples, and observing the monkeys playing. (Read more about visiting Ubud Monkey Forest on your 7 days in Bali)
How to Get from Canggu/Seminyak to Ubud
The drive from Canggu and Seminyak to Ubud takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. You can rent a scooter or a car (although traffic around Canggu is particularly bad), or you can take a taxi which will cost 10-20 USD. Using GoJek or Grab will be slightly cheaper.
Where to Stay in Ubud
There are many great accommodation options in the center of Ubud, where you are close to all the main tourist spots, shops, and restaurants. If you are looking for something a little more rural or unique, opt for something a little outside the center, close to the rice terraces, or at one of the bamboo houses in Bali.
Day 4: Day Trip to Mount Batur from Ubud
The sacred volcanoes of Bali are a big part of what makes this island so unique, so climbing to the top of the Mount Batur volcano is a must-do on your 7-day Bali itinerary! The area around the mountain is absolutely stunning and offers a very different landscape from Ubud and the popular beach villages. Because of this, it is worth squeezing in a day trip here to see another side of the island.
Read our complete 3-week Bali itinerary!
What to do in the area
Sunrise or Sunset at Mt. Batur
This iconic trek to see the sun rise or set from the summit of Mount Batur is well worth the extra steps. At the peak, you will be met by spectacular views over the whole of Bali and incredible pink and gold colors washing over jungle valleys, tiny villages, and the amazing black lava fields of the volcano. It’s recommended to take this tour with a guide.
Natural Hot Springs
After a long hike, what’s better than a hot bath? These volcanic hot springs by the lake are geothermally heated and are a great place to soak your tired muscles while you take in the stunning views over shimmering Lake Batur. The outdoor infinity pools are the perfect place to relax for an hour or two and give you the chance to warm up in the cooler mountain air.
Coffee Farm
The Mount Batur region has a cooler climate and volcanic soil – which means delicious coffee! There are lots of plantations in the area, many of which offer tours so you can taste locally-grown brews. (Please skip the Luwak coffee as this is animal cruelty – see here)
How to Get from Ubud to Mount Batur
The best way to visit Mount Batur on your Bali itinerary is by booking a day trip with a tour company or hiring a private driver. This will include an experienced guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as transport between several spots in the Mount Batur area. This all-inclusive option takes the hassle out of the trip, so you can just enjoy the spectacular scenery.
Alternatively, you can rent a scooter yourself or hire a driver in Bali if you want more flexibility. The drive from Ubud takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Day 5: Day Trip to Nusa Penida (West Side)
Nusa Penida is the biggest of the Nusa Islands, an island paradise with crystal clear water, dramatic limestone cliffs, and stunning ocean views. Once the most underdeveloped of the islands, it is quickly gaining popularity among tourists and is one of the must-see destinations on your 7 days in Bali.
On this 7-day Bali itinerary, there is only time for a day trip, so it’s best to stick to the west side of the island close to the harbor. However, if you do have more time, it is worth staying a night or two to make the most of this serene island paradise. Join a day tour or hire a car once you reach Nusa Penida to explore all its hidden gems.
What to do in the area
Paluang Cliff & Kelingking Point
These are two spectacular viewpoints around 30 minutes from the harbor, which are your first impression of the island’s beauty! With expansive blue ocean, rocky headlands, and lush green jungle laid out before you, these secluded spots high on the clifftop are a great place to catch your breath and take in the incredible views.
Broken Beach & Angel’s Billabong
These are two of the most beautiful and unmissable natural sights on Nusa Penida Island. Broken Beach has a rocky archway that acts as a natural bridge over the sea and has created a perfect circular bay; it’s an amazing spot for photos, as well as possible manta ray sightings!
Crystal Bay
For the rest of the day, relax and unwind at Crystal Bay, a stunning white sandy beach lined with swaying palm trees, a beautiful green jungle backdrop, and rocky islands out in the water. This is the perfect place for an afternoon of sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. Plus, you can rent umbrellas and enjoy a few drinks at the few beach bars on the shoreline. Make sure to also keep an eye out for turtles and dolphins!
How to Get from Ubud to Nusa Penida
You can book a taxi and ferry combination trip from Ubud, which takes around two and a half hours and costs roughly 15 USD.
Sleep in Uluwatu
Take the ferry back to the Sanur port, then head to Uluwatu down the coast – the final destination on your Bali itinerary!
What to do in the area
Beaches in Uluwatu, Bali
Uluwatu boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Bali, most of which are not too crowded. This area also has some of the best waves in the world, so it is a great place to pick up a board and spend some time on the water—the perfect way to wind down your 7 days in Bali.
Kecak Fire Dance
The Kecak Fire Dance is a traditional Balinese ceremony that takes place every evening at sunset on Uluwatu Cliff. This is an unforgettable experience, and in our opinion, it is the best thing to do in Uluwatu. Local dancers tell stories through theater, movement, and song at the clifftop amphitheater of Uluwatu Temple, with an incredible ocean backdrop and stunning sunset vistas, and of course, a fire show!
How to Get from Nusa Penida to Uluwatu
Most boats from Nusa Penida go to Sanur, which can take anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on which service you take. From Sanur to Uluwatu, it is just under an hour’s drive. It’s best to book a tour for Nusa Penida, which will include pick and drop-off at your hotel. Book directly through our friend Yande
Where to Stay in Uluwatu on your Bali Itinerary
The best area to stay in Uluwatu is Pecatu, which is the most central, meaning you can get to most places within a 20-minute scooter ride. Choose accommodation close to Bingin Beach and Padang-Padang Beach, which are both beautiful spots for sunbathing and swimming if you’re short on time.
Day 8 – Fly Out
After an action-packed week, take the last day of your Bali 7-day itinerary to relax and get ready for your flight home. From Uluwatu to the airport is just a 40-minute drive, so if you have an afternoon or evening flight, you can still enjoy most of the day here before heading off.
How to Get from Uluwatu to the Airport
The journey from Uluwatu to the airport takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. The best option is to book a taxi from your hotel or hostel, which will cost approximately 15 USD. Alternatively, if you’ve hired a car or motorcycle for your 7 days in Bali, you can simply drop it off at the airport before your flight.
How to Visit Bali in 7 Days
Denpasar-Ngurah Rai International Airport is where you will land when you first arrive in Bali. It’s located on the southern tip of the island, close to Canggu, Seminyak, and Uluwatu, making it a convenient place to start your Bali itinerary. If you are already traveling around Indonesia, you also have the option to take the ferry from Jakarta, Lombok, or the Gili Islands, among other places.
By Private Driver
Renting a private car and driver is one of the best ways to follow a Bali itinerary, especially for day trips where you want to visit multiple destinations. The driver will wait for you at each place, and the price is set for the day, so there are no hidden costs!
Hiring a driver costs 550000 IDR to 1500000 IDR (~ 35-100 USD) per day and takes away the hassle of navigating, parking, and getting fuel.
When following this 7-day Bali itinerary, we advise you to book all transfers at once with a driver. Most people end up leaving Bali with the driver as their new friend!
By Motorbike
One of the best and most flexible ways to travel around Bali is by motorcycle. That way, you can explore the island at your own pace, and you can hop off whenever you want to take pictures or stop for lunch. Additionally, renting a scooter is affordable, with daily rates starting from as little as ~4 – 10 USD per day.
By Car
Renting a car is a slightly safer option than a motorbike and an excellent choice for a small group with lots of luggage. Car rental costs around 30-60 USD daily and requires an international driver’s permit. Again, the roads can get busy during the high season, so if you are not a confident driver, consider hiring a private driver or taking taxis.
By Taxi
Taxis are an affordable and convenient way to get around for short distances on your Bali 8-day itinerary. However, always check that the meter is on or agree to a price beforehand! An even cheaper option is ride-sharing apps like Grab or Go-Jek, but these aren’t allowed in some areas.
For longer trips and for traveling between popular tourist attractions, it is better and cheaper to rent a private car and driver for the day.
Booking Tours
Booking a tour is a good option for specific trips on your Bali 7-day itinerary. For example, the sunrise trek to Mount Batur or the day trip to Nusa Penida. Everything is included in the tour, including hotel pick-up and drop-off. It also normally includes a guide who can provide fascinating local insight into the area and culture that you wouldn’t get otherwise.
Our Favorite Accommodations
Bali has loads of amazing accommodation options, from local homestays and lively budget hostels to stunning villas and luxury five-star resorts! Read about our favorite places to stay in Bali. Here are some of our favorites from every destination on this Bali itinerary:
- Canggu: Amar Boutique, Cali Villas, Guru Canggu
- Seminyak: The Legian, Elysian Boutique, Villa Air
- Ubud: Kayon Jungle Resort, Ubud Valley Boutique, Sapodilla Ubud
- Uluwatu: Padang Padang Inn, Bukal Sari, The Elementum
How Much Does 7 Days in Bali Cost?
The cost of your trip will depend on what time of year you visit, which part of the country you’re in, and what you like to spend your money on! However, Bali is generally a very affordable travel destination, and if you go outside of the high season months of July and August, you can find cheaper accommodation in most places.
Best Time to Visit Bali for 7 Days
The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season between April and October, when the weather is at its best for sightseeing, beach days, surfing, and diving. We recommend avoiding the high season of July and August when it gets very crowded on the island with local and international tourists, and prices go up.
Do I Need a Visa for 7 Days in Bali?
Most people will need a tourist visa to enter Bali. You can get a Visa on Arrival (VOA) when you land at the airport, which is valid for 30 days and costs 500,000 IDR (~ 33 USD). To avoid long queues at the airport, apply electronically at least 48 hours before you arrive. You can read about the full visa process here.
Travel Insurance for Bali
Travel insurance is an essential purchase before any trip away, however short. Insurance will give you peace of mind during your Bali itinerary and can save you money in the long run if anything unexpected happens while you are away. You can buy single-trip insurance very cheaply, and there are plenty of options if you are traveling long-term, too.
Travel Insurance
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Is it Safe in Bali?
Bali is generally a very safe place to travel and one of Indonesia’s safest destinations. There is a small level of petty crime, such as phone theft or pickpocketing, particularly in the more touristy areas, so just be sensible and wary of your belongings while out and about.
Another thing to be aware of is volcanic activity. Although an eruption is very unlikely, check the local news or government website for warnings before attempting the hike up Mount Batur.
Read: Top travel safety tips!
What to Pack for a 7-Day Bali Itinerary
There are two seasons in Bali, the wet and the dry, so your packing list may change depending on the time of year. However, the average temperature in Bali is a mild 79 °F (26 °C) all year round, so you don’t need to pack too much!
Bali Packing List
- Layers – Bringing different layers of clothing is a good idea, as temperatures can change when heading up into the mountains, especially at night.
- Universal travel plug – Useful for any trip to ensure all your electronics can be charged.
- Raincoat – In the rainy season, this is an essential item in Bali! It may still come in handy during the dry season when there are occasional showers.
- Hat – Essential for keeping the sun off your face while sightseeing, hiking, or simply sunbathing on the beach!
- Good footwear – Good hiking boots or sturdy sneakers/sandals are a must for your 7 days in Bali. A lot of the country is still unpaved, and you will need good shoes for hiking in the mountains or the rice paddies.
- Sarong – Most sacred temples require everyone to cover up their legs out of respect. There is often an option to rent these, but it’s good to have one packed just in case, even if it’s just to cover up from the sun!
- Microfibre towel – A small, lightweight towel is great for beach days and waterfall trips on your Bali itinerary, as they fit easily into a small bag and dry very quickly.
- Camera – You need something to capture all the incredible sights – consider a waterproof camera or a GoPro for snorkeling and diving or for that perfect waterfall shot.
- Power bank – Helpful for day trips, mountain hikes, and power outages, a power bank is a great backup to have on hand. Get one here.
- Small backpack – A small day bag or backpack is convenient for day trips, so you can just bring the essentials when following this Bali itinerary.
Packing Sustainable Items
- Insect repellent – Choose a non-toxic insect repellent that isn’t made with harmful chemicals like DEET.
- Sunscreen – Opt for a reef-safe sunscreen that is non-toxic and helps to protect marine life.
- Purifying water bottle – Unfortunately, tap water is unsafe to drink in Bali and may lead to the infamous ‘Bali Belly’.
- Stainless steel straw – Great for happy hour or beach-side coconuts, carrying a small stainless steel straw around with you will save on plastic.
- Reusable bags – Say no to plastic bags at local markets by keeping a few reusable bags on hand for your 7 days in Bali.
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