A 10-day itinerary for Bali and highlights of Nusa Penida. Bali offers a diverse range of attractions such as forests, temples, markets, beaches, waterfalls, lush rice fields, and many other experiences to enjoy.
If you find yourself feeling uninspired by the main island of Bali, there are several smaller islands nearby worth exploring, such as Nusa Penida. This island offers impressive cliffs, picturesque coastlines, and fantastic snorkeling spots.
In this 10-day travel plan for Bali, you will visit must-see attractions on the island. The journey begins in Ubud, a hub of culture, and concludes in the beach paradise of Bukit Peninsula, also called the Uluwatu area. The itinerary also includes exploring the hidden treasures of Nusa Penida island for a few days.
In this itinerary, we will explore various attractions in Bali over a 10-day period. We will start in Ubud and visit the center, terraces, temples, waterfalls, and go on day trips to Bedugul, Sanur, and Nusa Penida. We will also include activities like snorkeling and visiting Uluwatu. Additionally, we will provide tips for traveling in Bali and Nusa Penida, recommend hotels in Ubud, and suggest using a private driver for transportation. Lastly, we will include a map of the itinerary and discuss the best time to visit Bali.
There
This Bali itinerary was created by someone whose wife is from Bali, and they often visit the island in between their other trips. Bali is like a second home to them, and they have spent a lot of time exploring the island.
There are suggestions in certain Bali itineraries to divide your trip and allocate 2 days for each area of the island. However, this approach may not be ideal as it does not allow enough time to fully immerse yourself in an area or become acquainted with it. Additionally, switching hotels frequently can eat into your sightseeing time.
Therefore, this travel plan for Bali includes 5 days staying in Ubud (located in the middle of the island), 3 days on the nearby Nusa Penida island, and 2 days in the Uluwatu region (southern Bali). This allows for a well-rounded exploration of attractions in central and northern Bali, the southern peninsula, and many of the top sights in Penida.
To visit the majority of the attractions on this Bali itinerary, you will require some form of transportation. Renting a scooter or hiring a private car with a driver for a 10-hour sightseeing trip are both convenient options available in Bali.
I'm sorry
🌴 Beginning the Journey
This complete travel plan for Bali covers both Bali island and the nearby smaller island of Nusa Penida.
Travel to Bali by flying into Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), which is accessible through several affordable airlines that have received positive reviews. AirAsia frequently offers flights from Singapore (SIN), Bangkok (DMK), or Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Bali for prices at or below 1 million IDR ($70 USD).
Even more convenient is the option to travel to Bali directly from Australia or New Zealand through various international airports such as Adelaide, Cairns, or Perth, with comparable costs.
You have the option to browse and book flights to Bali on Skyscanner.
Upon your arrival in Bali, it is recommended to arrange for a private taxi transfer from the airport to Ubud. This can be easily booked in advance through GetYourGuide.
Arrive at your hotel in Ubud, and take some time to relax and prepare for the exciting tropical activities coming up!
I'm sorry
• Day 1: Exploring Ubud
â—‹ Visit Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Start your day by visiting the well-known Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud. Interact with the Balinese macaques and take some pictures with them for a fun experience. The forest is home to hundreds of monkeys who live in the jungle, and they are generally welcoming to visitors.
Ubud Market is located near the monkey forest and offers a variety of unique handmade souvenirs such as wood carvings, paintings, coconut bowls, rattan hats, and bags. Visitors are encouraged to negotiate for better prices, as some vendors may initially set their prices high.
Located on a street corner, the Ubud Palace is a beautiful palace dating back to the 1800s, featuring intricate Balinese stone carvings and lovely courtyards. A visit to this palace only takes about 15 minutes, but it is definitely worth it for its stunning architecture.
Located near the Ubud palace, Saraswati Temple is just a short 3-minute walk away. It is known for its intricate doors and walls that provide excellent opportunities for photography.
Accommodation options in Ubud include the luxurious Adiwana Unagi or the more budget-friendly Umah Dajane.
Monkey Forest in Ubud
Market in Ubud dedicated to
Ubud Palace is
Temple dedicated to the goddess Saraswati
There
On the second day of the trip, visitors can explore the Ubud Terraces and Temples. One of the must-visit spots is the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, which are located only a short 15-minute drive away from Ubud. Visitors can take footpaths that lead through the valley, allowing them to get a close-up view of the stunning terraces.
Gunung Kawi Sebatu Water Temple is a lesser-known temple in Bali that is considered one of the most beautiful and easily accessible from Ubud. It features a lovely koi pond, garden, and courtyards to enjoy, and is just a short 5-minute drive north of Tegalalang.
â—‹ Tirta Empul Temple is a renowned Hindu temple located in the Tegalalang region of Bali. Visitors, both tourists and locals, visit this temple to partake in the ritual bathing in the sacred spring. Even if this practice does not interest you, you can still appreciate the unique architecture of the temple and explore the bustling art market located nearby.
The Gunung Kawi Temple is a ancient archaeological site that is over 1,000 years old. It is a hidden temple where you can find funeral shrines that have been carved into the cliffs. This site is a significant part of Bali's history and is very interesting to explore.
â—‹ Goa Gajah Temple
After visiting several temples, you may be tired of seeing them. However, if you're still interested, you can visit Goa Gajah, a unique cave temple built in the 9th century. It has a striking entrance that is unlike any other in Bali.
Tegalalang Rice Terraces are agricultural landscapes
Water Temple of Gunung Kawi Sebatu
Tirta Empul Temple is a sacred site
Temple of Gunung Kawi
Temple of Goa Gajah
There
On the third day of your trip, visit the Bangli Waterfalls. One of the waterfalls in this area is the Goa Giri Campuhan Waterfall, located in the northern part of Bangli. It is a hidden gem that requires you to pass through some interesting caves to reach it. This waterfall is not too far from Ubud and is worth exploring for its unique and secluded location.
Kuning Waterfall is a distinctive waterfall and swimming spot located at the base of a large gorge in the jungle. While the descent to reach it is steep, visitors can take a refreshing dip in the natural pools below.
Tibumana Waterfall was once a hidden gem, but has gained popularity in recent years and is now a popular spot for Instagrammers. Despite the crowds, it is still a beautiful destination worth checking out.
â—‹ Taman Sari Waterfall is located just 500 meters away from the Tibumana entrance. This waterfall has two small steps and is not crowded, making it a peaceful spot to visit. You can easily reach it within 5-10 minutes.
Be cautious of the rocks, as they can be slippery at the Goa Rang Reng Waterfall. This waterfall has three different sections, with the first one being the most preferred. It is a large sloped cascade that resembles a natural Slip N Slide.
Giri Campuhan Waterfall in Goa
Yellow Waterfall
Tibumana Waterfall is a natural
Taman Sari Waterfall is a natural
Waterfall named Goa Rang Reng
There
• Day 4: Exploring Bedugul
â—‹ Sekumpul Waterfall
Embark on a two-hour drive from Ubud to reach Sekumpul, a renowned waterfall in Bali known for its size and beauty. The lush jungle and picturesque rice terraces surrounding the waterfall are truly breathtaking and will surely make your Bali experience unforgettable.
The Fiji Waterfall is a triple waterfall that you can visit as a bonus during the same hike. It is only a 10-minute walk away from the Sekumpul waterfall.
The Ulun Danu Bratan Temple, located in the center of a lake, is a popular photo spot in Bali. The lake it is situated on was formed from a volcanic crater and is the second largest lake in Bali.
The Bali Botanic Garden is a lesser-known attraction in Bali, but worth a visit especially since it is near the lake temple. The garden features trees and plants that resemble those from the Jurassic Park movie. One of the main attractions is a gigantic Banyan tree that is possibly centuries old.
Head towards Jatiluwih Rice Terraces in the southern part of Bali to witness the vast and impressive rice fields. Explore the trekking routes that pass through the terraces and admire the beautiful scenery along the way.
Sekumpul Waterfall is a natural
Waterfall in Fiji
Temple of Ulun Danu Bratan
Bedugul Botanic Garden is a botanical
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are a famous agricultural site
There
On the fifth day of your trip, consider hiring a private driver to take you from Ubud to Sanur. Along the way, make a stop at Mas wood carving village to admire the skilled craftsmanship of Balinese wood carvings. Keep in mind that these carvings can be expensive, so do some research and be prepared to negotiate before making a purchase.
Kemenuh Butterfly Park is a compact park that houses numerous butterflies, with a unique opportunity to interact with the Atlas Moth, which is the largest moth globally. Additionally, the park features giant stick bugs that originate from Borneo.
Tegenungan Waterfall is a popular and crowded tourist destination in Bali. While it may not be the best place to avoid crowds, it is still a good spot to stop for lunch and worth visiting since it is along the way to other attractions.
The Bali Bird Park & Reptile Park is home to over 1,000 birds and reptiles, including tropical parrots and Komodo dragons. The park's design is inspired by the ancient 'Angkor Wat' theme, creating a fitting atmosphere for the wildlife. The park is well-maintained and organized. If you're not interested in the bird park, you can visit the nearby Batuan Temple instead.
â—‹ Travel to Sanur
Continue your journey to the Sanur region, which is about a 20-30 minute drive from the bird park. Check in to your next hotel and take some time to relax and prepare for the boat trip to Nusa Penida island the next morning!
Accommodation options in Sanur include the luxurious Andaz hotel or the budget-friendly Blanjong Homestay.
Artistic creations made from wood in the traditional
Kemenuh Butterfly Park is
Waterfall at Tegenungan
Park in Bali dedicated to bird
I
• Day 6: Exploring West Nusa Penida
â—‹ Travel to Nusa Penida
Wake up early and catch a morning boat from Sanur to Nusa Penida. The speedboat ride lasts approximately 45 minutes. Upon reaching Penida, rent a scooter or arrange to meet a local driver to begin exploring the sights!
â—‹ Kelingking Beach
Begin your day at this stunning cliff location, known for being one of the most picturesque and well-liked viewpoints in Bali. For those looking for an adventurous challenge, consider hiking down to the beach and back up, but make sure to pack enough water to stay hydrated.
Located near the well-known Kelingking cliff is the Paluang Cliff, which offers a less crowded viewpoint. It is a quick and simple stop to make during your visit to Bali.
Pererenan Cliff is a lesser-known cliff location that many tours do not visit. If you are curious, there is a steep path leading down to the base of the cliff, where you can relax in a beautiful natural pool.
Banah Cliff Point is a secret spot that offers a short hike with a rewarding view. By descending the stairs to the western edge of the cliffs, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking sight of the unique Banah rock and the stunning white cliffs.
Visit Tembeling Beach to end your day. You can either walk the entire way or take a motorcycle taxi down and back up. At the bottom, you'll find a cool natural pool and a sea cave with a view of the towering cliffs.
Accommodation options in Penida include the luxurious MAUA Hotel or the more affordable Unicorn Bungalow.
There
Travel by speedboat from Bali to Nusa Penida.
Pinkie Beach
Cliff of Paluang
Cliff at Pererenan
Cliff Point Banah
Tembeling Beach is a
There
• On the seventh day, visit East Nusa Penida to explore the stunning Diamond Beach. Admire the views from the viewpoint, then descend the stairs to reach the pristine white sand. Many consider Diamond Beach to be one of the most breathtaking beaches globally.
Located just a short 2-minute stroll away from Diamond Beach is Atuh Beach. While it may not be as popular on social media, it is still a wonderful spot to unwind on the sandy shores and enjoy some refreshments.
The Rumah Pohon Treehouse consists of three wooden tree houses located near Diamond Beach, just a short 5-minute drive away. The location is spectacular, and visitors have the option to spend the night in one of the tree houses.
â—‹ Teletubbies Hill
A pleasant stop along the drive north from Diamond Beach, Teletubbies Hill features cone-shaped hills that resemble the characters from the children's show. The best time to visit is shortly after the rainy season, when the hills are a vibrant green color.
The Pura Goa Giri Putri Cave Temple is a Hindu temple located inside a large cave. Visitors must crawl through a small opening in the rock to enter, but the interior is much larger than anticipated. It is a unique and interesting stop on the itinerary, offering a change of scenery from other attractions.
Beach made
Atuh Beach is
Treehouse Cottage
The Hill of the Teletubb
Sacred temple located within the Goa Giri Putri Cave.
• Day 8: Snorkeling + West Penida
â—‹ Snorkeling Excursion
Get up early to go on a 2-3 hour snorkeling excursion on the western side of the island. Joining a group tour typically costs around 150k IDR per person and you can book this through Nusa Penida Explorer (contact: +62 818-0533-3747). During the tour, you'll have the chance to see colorful corals, clownfish, and possibly encounter manta rays and turtles if you're fortunate.
â—‹ Angel's Billabong is a vibrant tide pool where you can swim and relax when the water level is low. However, be cautious of high tide as it can be dangerous when the waves are large.
â—‹ Damaged Beach
This attraction is formed by the coastline in the shape of a horseshoe. Occasionally, visitors may spot manta rays swimming near the surface of the water.
Crystal Bay is a beautiful beach known for its stunning sunsets and convenient access. There are plenty of sunbeds available and it is surrounded by food and drink stalls. It is the ideal spot to relax and unwind after exploring the sights of Penida island.
â—‹ Return to Bali
Go back to the port and board an evening boat from Nusa Penida to Sanur. Upon reaching Bali, travel towards the Uluwatu region and check into your new accommodation to get ready for the next part of your Bali travel plan.
I'm sorry
Exploring the underwater world of Gamat Bay while
Angel's Billabong is a natural infinity pool
Damaged Shoreline
Bay made of
Return to Bali from Nusa Penida by speedboat.
I
• Day 9: Uluwatu
â—‹ Balangan Beach
Visit Balangan Beach on the southwest coast of Bali to enjoy its pristine white sand. Don't miss the opportunity to admire the stunning views of the ocean and coastline from the cliff above the beach.
Padang Padang Beach is a well-known destination despite being tucked away beneath a cliff. By midday, it tends to be busy with visitors enjoying the white sandy shores, great surfing opportunities, and the presence of monkeys. It offers everything necessary for a fun and enjoyable experience.
Suluban Beach is a secluded beach located within a cave. Personally, I enjoy the restaurant located above the beach, which offers a stunning view of the cliffs lining the coast and serves drinks.
Located on a large cliff in Bali, Uluwatu Temple is a popular spot for watching the sunset. Visitors should be cautious of the monkeys at the temple, as they are known to try and steal items, including sunglasses.
Accommodation options in Uluwatu include the luxury Green Escape Resort and the midrange Tempekan Hotel.
Padang Padang Beach is a
Eatery located at Suluban Beach
Temple of Uluwatu
There
On the tenth day of your trip to Bali, you can visit the Karang Boma Cliff in Uluwatu. This cliff offers a less crowded experience compared to other spots in Uluwatu, with no barriers obstructing the view of the waves hitting the rocks below. It's a great place for a brief stop during your day 10 itinerary in Bali.
Nunggalan Beach is a beloved spot in Bali for many, including myself. While the trek down the cliffs may be tiring, the payoff is a spacious beach with few visitors, and the added bonus of a shipwreck that makes for great photo opportunities.
Green Bowl Beach is a beautiful beach with white sand and large caves, making it a great place to enjoy the sunset. The only downside is that getting there involves navigating steep stairs.
â—‹ Oneeighty Cliff Pool
Oneeighty is a popular destination in Bali, featuring a unique glass pool overlooking a cliff. While the pool is located within a luxury hotel, visitors have the option to access it for the day for a fee, which also includes a credit for food and drinks. It's a wonderful spot to end your Bali vacation.
Boma Cliff is a popular spot
Shipwreck at Nunggalan Beach
Beach with a
Cliff Pool at Oneeighty
Additional tips for traveling to Bali and Nusa Penida are provided. I trust that this Bali guide has been useful in organizing your upcoming journey.
Make sure to take a look at my complete Bali Travel Guide and Nusa Penida Travel Guide for helpful tips, information, pictures, and more at no cost!
Accommodation options in Ubud include The Kayon Resort.
Adiwana Unagi Suites
Serayu Hut
Accommodation called Umah Dajane Guest
If you are looking to travel around Bali in a private vehicle with a driver for a comfortable and secure experience, I highly suggest using GetYourGuide.
The cost is 675k Rupiah ($47 USD) for a day of driving and exploring Bali for 1-5 people for up to 10 hours. This price includes the car, driver, and gas. It's a fantastic offer.
You have the option to book a private driver in Nusa Penida through this particular company. GetYourGuide has been used by us for various tours and activities globally, and we highly recommend them.
Check out the itinerary map on Stippl, a travel app that helps you plan your trips, manage your budget, and offers other features.
I
Determining the best time to visit Bali depends on your specific preferences and interests.
Bali experiences its rainy season from November to April. The daytime weather can be hot and humid, reaching temperatures of 90-95 °F (32-35 °C). Despite the heat, this time of year is less crowded with tourists, and the rain typically falls during the night.
During the months of May to August, the temperatures are cooler and there is more sunshine and wind. This is considered the best weather. However, this time of year is also the peak season and tends to be more crowded.
The attractions listed in this Bali schedule are stunning throughout the year, but I believe the ideal period for capturing photos is from March to May, as this is when the rainy season has just ended and the island is lush with greenery.
There
Related Articles
You might also enjoy exploring Chefchaouen, known as the Blue City of Morocco, and climbing Mount Karangetang Volcano in Siau, Sulawesi. A 10-day itinerary for Morocco, including Marrakesh, Fes, Sahara, and Toubkal, is also available. Maya Bay in Thailand has reopened for visitors, and a travel guide for Ternate Island in Maluku is provided. Learn how to visit Ancient Corinth on a day trip from Athens. One reader expressed gratitude for a free 10-day Bali itinerary and Nusa Penida highlights, thanking the blogger and wishing them blessings.
1. When visiting Nusa Penida, should we book a hotel in Sanur or on Nusa Penida itself?
2. I will be traveling with my spouse and 2-year-old child. Can you recommend some hotels based on your itinerary?
3. With 11 days available, where should I consider spending an extra day? Is it possible to visit Lempuyang Temple near the Amed area?
Hey Aroon! I'm happy to hear that you enjoyed your trip. If you're staying in Sanur, you can take a day trip to Nusa Penida or spend a couple of days exploring the island. It's recommended to spend at least two days and one night on Penida for a more thorough experience, but a day trip is still worth it if you're short on time. Check out my Nusa Penida travel guide for some ideas on what to do on the island. When it comes to accommodation, SenS Hotel in Ubud is a good midrange option, while Ubud Glassy Villa is a budget-friendly choice. In Sanur, you can consider staying at Parigata Resorts or Puri Hiromi, and for Nusa Penida, The Sagara is a good hotel option. If you're heading to Uluwatu with family, Bingin Bienvenue is a great choice. If you have an extra day to spare, consider visiting Lempuyang temple and other attractions in East Bali on a day trip from Ubud or Sanur. I hope these suggestions are helpful to you!
Thanks to this article, I was able to plan my family trip to Bali more effectively.
Feel free to share your thoughts and
Remember to store my name, email, and website on this browser so that it can be easily accessed the next time I leave a comment.
Find the element with the id "ak_js_1" and set its value attribute to the current timestamp.
Personal Information
Hello! My name is David Leiter, and I have been traveling around the world non-stop for the past 9 years. My wife, Intan, and I spend most of our time in Bali, but we also visit various destinations worldwide. Feel free to join us on our adventures!
Social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram are featured on the website. The Mason Elephant Sanctuary in Bali is a rescue park and lodge. An itinerary for a 4-day visit to Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia is provided. Information on hiking Mount Dukono Volcano in Maluku, Indonesia is available. Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida, Bali offers a T-Rex cliff hike. A day trip to the Blue City of Chefchaouen in Morocco is recommended. Tips on visiting Kawah Ijen, a volcano lake with blue fire in Java, are included. Diamond Beach in Nusa Penida offers a scenic Bali swing experience. A travel guide to the Tikal Mayan ruins in Guatemala is provided along with a map. Information on the Banggai Islands in Sulawesi, Indonesia is also available. The Lamanai Ruins in Belize feature the Mayan Mask Temple. Tips on visiting the Navagio Beach shipwreck in Zakynthos are provided. Information on visiting the Temples of Bagan in Myanmar is included. The Queen Hatshepsut Temple in Luxor, Egypt is highlighted with tips on how to visit. Instructions on doing the Fitz Roy hike in Patagonia to see Laguna De Los Tres are given. A travel guide to Koh Tao Island in Thailand and the best things to do there are provided. The website also lists the 18 best waterfalls in Indonesia and offers a 7-day travel itinerary for Bhutan. Readers can subscribe to the newsletter for updates on blog posts, tips, and travel guides.
In 2025, The World Travel Guy includes affiliate disclosures, a privacy policy, and terms of use on their website. They have affiliate links on some pages, and if you make a purchase through these links, they receive a small commission without any extra cost to you. They only promote products and services that they believe are of good quality and beneficial to their audience. Thank you for your support.
