If you’re planning a trip to Bali soon, you’re probably getting overwhelmed by the sheer number of hotels and areas to choose from! Where’s the best place to stay? Is it in Kuta, Seminyak, Ubud, or somewhere else? Don’t worry, in this article, we’ll help you figure out what’s best for you.

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BlogDisclaimer

When you look at Bali on the map, it looks small. First-timers easily assume it’s as small as Phuket, Santorini, or Singapore. But in reality, Bali is a big island. It only looks small because it sits next to Java, which is much, much larger. In fact, it is eight times bigger than Singapore, 10 times bigger than Phuket, 64 times bigger than Santorini, more than 500 times larger than Boracay! In the Philippines, size-wise, Bali is more comparable to the entire island of Cebu or Leyte.

Why am I saying this? Because this matters when you’re choosing the area to stay. You have to understand the island’s geography first.

WAIT, WAIT, WAIT! If your are traveling soon and still on the planning stage, you can also visit our The Poor Traveler Masterlist. Here, we compiled travel essentials, including immigration requirements and all our recommended hotels and tours. Just visit this page: TPT Masterlist. We have a compilation for destinations around the world.

Understanding Bali’s Geography

This is Bali. It is composed of eight regencies and one city, Denpasar.

Bali Tourist Hotspots. The red-labeled places are the popular tourist areas in Bali.

Understanding its geography is even more important, considering that the key attractions are scattered throughout the island. Hence, the best area to stay depends on the places you want to visit, especially if you only have a few days.

Each has its pros and cons. So let’s talk about and break down each of these tourist hotspots one by one. By the way, this is in no particular order. The numbers are just there for easier reference.

1. KUTA

Best for: Budget travelers, backpackers, and party animals

Kuta is the most popular area among tourists, especially first-timers. It put Bali on the map of international travelers.

PROS

Part of the Badung Regency, its location is very convenient. It’s close to the airport and the beach!

Kuta Beach Bali
Kuta Beach

You’ll find almost everything you could possibly need here: ATMs, money changers, banks, convenience stores, restaurants, bars, shops, tour agencies, and even motorcycle rentals. It’s also where many tours kick off since most agencies are based in the area. And of course, Kuta is famous — or maybe infamous, depending on how you feel about it — for its wild, energetic nightlife.

Kuta Market Bali

Kuta also has the biggest cluster of accommodations in Bali. Sure, there are a few upscale hotels around, but it’s really best known for budget- and backpacker-friendly options.

If you’re after the beach vibe with easy access to everything, including the airport and vibrant nightlife, Kuta may be for you.

CONS

Kuta doesn’t have a sterling reputation. And some of the criticisms are not unfounded. Some seasoned travelers advise against staying here. They say it’s overhyped, overcrowded, and overdeveloped. It’s true that Kuta is incredibly busy and touristy.

Traffic jams are pretty common, especially during rush hours, and you have to be alert, as many of Bali’s cases of scams, pickpockets, and phone or bag snatching happen here.

Kuta Night Bali

Hold up, let’s be clear. Bali is generally safe. Crime rate is low. And violent crimes are rare. I have never felt unsafe, even in Kuta. But you have to secure your valuables when walking around Kuta and nearby areas and be vigilant.

You can escape the hustle and bustle of Kuta by choosing a bigger, well-appointed hotel.

Where We Stayed

Recently, our team was able to stay at Anathera Resort Kuta. It’s a modern mid-range hotel conveniently located just a few minutes from Kuta Beach and the main shopping and nightlife areas. It strikes a nice balance between accessibility and comfort, making it a great base for travelers who want to be close to the action but still enjoy a peaceful retreat after a long day out.

Anathera Resort Kuta Bali

The property features a large swimming pool, a kids’ pool, a gym, a spa, and even a deck lounge where guests can unwind. The rooms are bright and spacious, most with private balconies overlooking the pool or garden. Each room also has free Wi-Fi, a minibar, and a flat-screen TV. The staff was also friendly and helpful.

It’s not the most luxurious option in Bali, but it delivers solid value for money. You can book a deluxe room for two for as low as IDR 560,000 (PHP 2,000) per night on Agoda including taxes.

✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY HERE!

And it can go even lower if you use our promo code AGODATPT, which will give you 10% OFF. That’s a lot of savings, especially if you’re booking expensive hotels or multiple nights, because it’s capped at USD 100 or roughly P5800. That’s a big discount.

✅ To redeem this code, download and open the Agoda app, and on the COUPONS tab, enter AGODATPT (all caps). Then choose a property and room type, and upon checkout, enter AGODATPT again to avail of the special rate.

You can use this code for most hotels on Agoda!

Top Hotels in Kuta

Here are some of the best places to stay in Kuta, as rated by travelers online.

Search for more Kuta Hotels!

2. SEMINYAK

Best for: Families and anyone who loves Kuta’s fun, beachy vibe — minus the chaos and crowds

Just like Kuta, Seminyak is a paradise for surfers. It shares the same coastline and the same spectacular sunsets, only with more space to breathe.

PROS

Think of Seminyak as Kuta’s slightly calmer, classier neighbor to the north, where the streets are lined with stylish villas, luxury resorts, and elegant spa retreats. You’ll also find fine-dining restaurants, designer boutiques, and chic bars. But that’s not to say there are no affordable options. It has a good selection of hostels and budget hotels, too.

Many of these places cater to families and groups, making it a great spot if you want comfort without sacrificing convenience.

Picture of Bintang Supermarket - Bali, Indonesia

Seminyak Night Bali

If you’re a member of the LGBT+ community, consider Seminyak because it also has an active LGBT+ scene. A section of Jalan Camplung Tanduk Road in Seminyak is the unofficial gay strip, with gay bars, drag shows, and LGBTQIA+-friendly beach bars.

It’s also fairly close to the airport, just a tad farther than Kuta, but still accessible.

CONS

Seminyak suffers from almost every disadvantage that you can say about Kuta. It’s also crowded and bustling with traffic jams and all, but not as hectic. Personally, between the two, we prefer Seminyak.

Where We Stayed

We stayed at Grandmas Plus Hotel Seminyak, a big hotel offering budget rooms! We paid IDR 2,070,000 (USD 124, PHP 7328) for three nights.

Grandmas Plus Hotel Seminyak Bali

That’s only IDR 690,000 (USD 41.40, PHP 2443) per night. It’s at an excellent location, just a short walk from the beach, restaurants, and bars. It’s perfect for travelers who want to stay in the heart of Seminyak without paying premium resort prices. The rooms are compact but modern, equipped with essentials like air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and comfortable beds. There’s also a small swimming pool, an in-house spa, and a restaurant, all great for relaxing after a day of exploring.

✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY HERE!

Top Hotels in Seminyak

🔥🔥🔥 Use AGODATPT for 10% off on select hotels! 🔥🔥🔥

Search for more Seminyak Hotels!

3. UBUD

Best for: Travelers seeking some peace of mind, cultural experience, and a central location

Ubud is often considered the cultural heart of Bali. It is perfect if you’re after culture, relaxation, and a greener side of Bali. As a base for tourists, it has plenty of advantages.

PROS

It’s ideal for travelers who want a slower, more soulful experience, away from the beach crowds. You’ll find art galleries, yoga retreats, wellness centers, and local craft markets that give you a deeper look into Balinese culture.

Many boutique resorts and villas are set amid tranquil rice paddies or along river valleys, offering peaceful views and a strong sense of connection to nature. Even those within the town center, most properties still feel more secluded and have a more private vibe. Many of the resorts or villas that get featured by influencers — those with a pool floating lunch tray — they’re probably here in Ubud.

Tegenungan Waterfall Bali

Pura Tirta Tempul Bali

Extreme Swing Bali Ubud
Photos by Glenn Ituriaga and Kara Santos

It is also well-located for day trips to waterfalls, rural temples, rice terraces, and scenic highland spots. Ubud sits in the middle, making it an excellent base. By staying here, you won’t have to deal with the Kuta, Seminyak, and Denpasar traffic jams for the most part.

You’ll find a lot of tours on Klook that start or pick up here in Ubud, so going around should not be an issue.

✅ If you book with Klook, visit www.thepoortraveler.net/klook to automatically get 5% OFF your booking! You can also use our promo code THEPOORTRAVELERKLOOK or TPTKLOOK5 for 5% OFF!

CONS

Speaking of traffic, Ubud isn’t without its downsides. The town center can also get congested with cars and scooters, especially during peak hours, but not as bad as Kuta or Seminyak.

If you’re traveling to Bali for the beach, well, it’s quite far from the coast — around an hour and a half to two hours away, depending on traffic.

Prices for accommodation and food have gone up over the years, reflecting its growing popularity. And although it’s generally calm, nightlife here is limited compared to coastal areas like Kuta or Seminyak.

Where We Stayed

Here in Ubud, we were able to try Ari Cottages. It’s a charming 3-star boutique property tucked away on Jalan Made Lebah in the Pengosekan area of Ubud, just outside downtown, so it’s very quiet. But it’s only a short stroll from popular restaurants, cafés, and shops. The best part — right across the road is a supermarket!

Ari Cottages Ubud

Rooms here have terraces that overlook their swimming pools. The one we got comes with daily afternoon tea, but we didn’t get to avail of it because we were always outside exploring. Insect repellent spray was also provided.

The staff were friendly and welcoming. It’s a fantastic choice if you want a stylish, mid-budget stay with a bit of character in Ubud.

We paid IDR 3,926,000 (USD 235, PHP 13,884) for three nights. That’s IDR 1,308,600 (USD 78.35, PHP 4,628) per night. Not bad considering it was peak season when we visited, and honestly, it was one of the few remaining reasonably priced private rooms we found at the time.

✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY HERE!

Top Hotels in Ubud

🔥🔥🔥 Use AGODATPT for 10% off on select hotels! 🔥🔥🔥

Search for more Ubud Hotels!

4. CANGGU

Canggu is another village further north along the same beach as Kuta and Seminyak, but much quieter, more laidback, and cheaper. There is a good selection of hotels and hostels, but also apartments for weekly or monthly rent and co-working spaces.

Because of its atmosphere and affordability, it’s become a favorite among digital nomads and those who are staying in Bali longer than usual.

Top Hotels in Canggu

🔥🔥🔥 Use AGODATPT for 10% off on select hotels! 🔥🔥🔥

Search for more Canggu Hotels!

5. DENPASAR

Denpasar is Bali’s capital. It can give you a taste of Balinese city life away from the tourists. It has its share of worthy attractions, from local markets to important temples. And the food scene here is great, offering not just authentic Balinese fare but also other Indonesian cuisines.

Pasar Badung Denpasar

Pura Desa Lan Puseh Denpasar

Pelita Denpasar Bali

Note, however, that while its Sanur district has a good beach, the city center is far from the coast. And despite Ngurah Rai International Airport also being called Denpasar Airport, it’s actually in Badung, outside Denpasar. In reality, Denpasar’s city proper is much, much farther from the airport than Kuta or Seminyak.

Top Hotels in Denpasar

🔥🔥🔥 Use AGODATPT for 10% off on select hotels! 🔥🔥🔥

Search for more Denpasar Hotels!

6. NUSA DUA

Nusa Dua is the polished, family-friendly face of Bali. It’s home to many of the island’s luxury resorts, each with pristine beachfronts and top-notch facilities. The vibe here is serene and secure, great for honeymooners, families, and anyone who just wants to relax without chaos. The beaches are wide and gentle, perfect for swimming or water sports.

On the flip side, it feels a bit removed from authentic local life, with most of the action happening within resort grounds.

Top Hotels in Nusa Dua

🔥🔥🔥 Use AGODATPT for 10% off on select hotels! 🔥🔥🔥

Search for more Nusa Dua Hotels!

7. ULUWATU

Uluwatu is perched on Bali’s southern cliffs. It offers some of the island’s best ocean views and sunsets. Accommodation options range from budget to luxury.

Uluwatu Temple

The area, however, is quite spread out with limited transportation modes and much fewer commercial establishments. It’s not ideal for those who want walkable neighborhoods. But it’s a haven for surfers or just those who want to stay somewhere quieter but still very accessible from the airport.

Top Hotels in Uluwatu

🔥🔥🔥 Use AGODATPT for 10% off on select hotels! 🔥🔥🔥

Search for more Uluwatu Hotels!

What is the Best Area to Stay in Bali?

So, what is the best area to stay in Bali? That depends on what type of traveler you are and your itinerary.

  • If you’re a backpacker or budget traveler who likes to party and want to be in the center of the action, Kuta might be a good choice. It’s lively, loud, and loaded with affordable hotels and hostels. Perfect if you love nightlife, easy beach access, and meeting other travelers — not so much if you crave peace and quiet.
  • If you’re a group of friends looking for trendy spots, Seminyak is the place to be. It has a mix of comfort, convenience, and style. You’re close to great restaurants, shopping, and beach clubs, but not as busy or crowded as Kuta.
  • If you’re an explorer and you want to see much of the island, stay in Ubud. Its location makes it an ideal base for day tours to the temples, waterfalls, and rice terraces.
  • If you’re a digital nomad who likes a social, creative scene, choose Canggu. Expect modern villas, boutique guesthouses, and co-living spaces. It’s casual, fun, and ideal if you want to work, surf, or just hang out somewhere cool.
  • If you’re a couple on a romantic getaway, book a villa in Ubud or a resort in Nusa Dua or even Uluwatu. Your choice of accommodation will be crucial here, so always check reviews.
  • If you’re a luxury traveler who prioritizes comfort and relaxation, consider Nusa Dua. The gated resort areas are calm, clean, and safe, with big hotels offering everything you need within walking distance. Great for those who want a stress-free beach holiday.
  • If you’re a nature or culture lover, Ubud is your best bet. Hands down.
  • If you’re a family, stay in Nusa Dua if you have the budget and you want to be away from the tourist chaos. But if your family prefers to be close to more establishments, Seminyak is a good choice too.
  • If you’re a foodie, Denpasar is great. Ubud, Seminyak, Kuta, and other areas have a good food scene, too, but in our experience, Denpasar is the best for restaurant and café hopping and market crawls.

Personally, if I would return to Bali now and I have six nights, I would stay in Ubud for the first three nights and in Seminyak for the last three. Otherwise, choose just one. Which one? If you asked me five years ago, I’d say Seminyak. But now that I’m a bit older, I’d pick Ubud.

Have you experienced staying at any of these places in Bali? How was it? Let us know in the comments section below.

Updates Log

2025 11 12 – First uploaded

Co-written with Asta Alvarez
Photos by Yosh Dimen, Asta Alvarez, and Mariah Cruz

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