Let me preface this by saying: writing this article has been a pain in the rear end. You’d think coming up with a list of Bali attractions would be easy. I mean, how hard could it be to list down temples, beaches, and waterfalls, right? Wrong. The problem isn’t finding things to do in Bali. It’s that there’s a lot to do here: countless attractions that can be organized into tours in many different ways.
Although it is possible to reach some of the tourist spots DIY-style, the most usual way is by going on a tour. You can join a group tour with a fixed itinerary. Or you can arrange a private tour so you have control of your time and stops. So aside from their location, I organized this list by following how operators divide and bundle these attractions into tours. I will also be sharing with you the links to where we booked our tours. Hopefully, it is more helpful this way.
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.
CHARTERING A PRIVATE RIDE
But if you want even more flexibility, you can drive a rental car or motorcycle. But if you don’t want to drive like us, you can charter a car with a driver. We did just that on other days, just so we could try it and cover it on this blog. Here are the rates we gathered.
CAR FOR 1-3 PAX
- Duration: 6 Hours
Rate: IDR 482,000 (USD 29, P1700)
Note: With Driver - Duration: 10 Hours
Rate: IDR 623,000 (USD 37, P2200)
Note: With Driver
CAR FOR 1-5 PAX
- Duration: 6 Hours
Rate: IDR 517,000 (USD 31, P1825)
Note: With Driver - Duration: 10 Hours
Rate: IDR 694,000 (USD 41.50, P2450)
Note: With Driver
There are also options for 12 hours, and groups of 6, 10, 14, 24, 32. You can check the rates here:
Note that most pre-arranged tours already cover the entrance fees. But if you’ll pull a DIY or charter a private ride, you’ll have to pay them yourself separately.
✅ If you’re more comfortable using Klook services for your tours and tickets, please use our promo code THEPOORTRAVELERKLOOK for up to P300 OFF or TPTKLOOK5 for up to P500 OFF. These codes might change in the future, so best to just visit thepoortraveler.net/klook to redeem updated discount codes!
Without further ado, let’s start with my favorite tour.
NORTH BALI
Northern Bali is a far cry from the busy and crowded beach areas in the south. It’s quieter and greener, but also packed with iconic landmarks and natural beauty. Give yourself a full day to enjoy everything without rushing.
Handara Gate
Our first stop was Handara Gate, which stands at the entrance of the Handara Golf & Resort. But the gate quickly became a photography hotspot for travelers, offering a less hectic and less crowded alternative to the Gate of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple. It looks similar but without the Mt. Agung backdrop.
While the Gate of Heaven can have you waiting for hours, here at Handara Gate, you can have a photo taken in around an hour if you come early. When we visited, we only waited for 45 minutes for our turn. But note that there is nothing else to do here other than taking photos.
Ulun Danu Temple
Ulun Danu Temple was built in 1633 to honor Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, and sits on the shores of Lake Beratan. The temple’s multi-tiered meru towers are iconic. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, watch local ceremonies, and learn about its cultural significance in Balinese water rituals.
Banyumala Twin Falls
Banyumala Twin Falls is tucked in the jungle. From the parking lot, you can walk or charter a motorcycle to get to the start of the trail. Then, a short trek along stone steps down the steep hillside will lead you to the base, where you will be greeted by the falls.
The twin streams cascade into a natural pool, and the water is cold, perfect for a quick dip. It’s one of Bali’s quieter waterfalls, making it ideal if you want to avoid large crowds and enjoy the forest surroundings.
Wanagiri Hidden Hill
Wanagiri Hidden Hill, also called Wanagiri Heaven, overlooks Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan. It is famous for its swings, bird’s nests, and photo platforms. The spot became popular for tourists, thanks to Instagram. Going early helps beat the crowd and lets you enjoy the scenery without waiting for your turn on the swings.
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage site and cover hundreds of hectares with carefully maintained paddies. The terraces use the traditional subak irrigation system, which has been practiced in Bali for centuries. Walking along the trails gives you a closer look at the farmers at work and plenty of opportunities to appreciate the scale and design of the landscape.
North Bali Tours
As mentioned earlier, this is my favorite Bali Tour because I liked all five stops. We booked our tour on Klook. You’ll find a lot of operators offering this tour, but in particular, we booked this North Bali Instagram Tour:
✅ BOOK NORTH BALI INSTAGRAM TOUR HERE!
This page has a lot of options, so make sure you choose NORTH BALI. This is a private tour, meaning it was just Vins and me sharing the car. But don’t worry, even private tours in Bali are not expensive, compared to other destinations. The difference between a private tour and a join-in tour per person isn’t much.
But if you’re on a budget and you really want to join a group tour with other travelers, I found this on Klook, too. But we haven’t booked this one. Just presenting another option.
✅ BOOK NORTH BALI INSTAGRAM TOUR HERE!
CENTRAL BALI
Central Bali encompasses multiple regencies, but many of the beloved attractions in the region are in the northern half of Badung and Gianyar Regencies. And at its heart lies Ubud, said to be the cultural core of Bali.
There’s a lot to see and do in Central Bali, so you’ll find countless iterations of this tour, usually including four to five sites, but some items change. Here are some of the most usual stops:
Sacred Monkey Forest
The Sacred Monkey Forest is home to over 600 long-tailed macaques and three main temples that date back hundreds of years. Walking through the shaded paths lined with ancient statues and mossy carvings, you get a sense of how these temples have been part of local life for generations. The monkeys roam freely, stealing snacks and inspecting visitors’ bags, so hold on to your belongings.
Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Tegalalang Terraces are a classic example of the subak irrigation system that has shaped Balinese agriculture for centuries. The terraces rise in neat steps along the hillsides, with small paths that let you walk among the paddies. Many farmers still work here, planting and harvesting rice using traditional methods, which makes it easy to appreciate the scale and effort behind the stunning scenery.
Access here usually starts at properties that offer giant swings and many other photo opportunities. You’ll have to pay for these, but you can totally skip them if you don’t want to.
Tirta Empul
Tirta Empul Temple, built in 926 AD, is famous for its holy spring where locals and visitors participate in ritual purification. You can join in, stepping from fountain to fountain as water flows over each person. Or you can just admire from a distance or walk around the temple complex, composed of pools, fountains, and shrines dedicated to Vishnu. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Bali’s spiritual traditions.
Ulu Petanu Falls
There are two main Central Bali Tours available on Klook, and they differ primarily in the last stop. One ends the tour at Ulu Petanu Falls. This is a lesser-known waterfall. The trek to reach it is short but involves some uneven terrain and stepping stones over streams. Once there, the water crashes into a wide pool surrounded by rocks and greenery.
✅ BOOK UBUD BALI INSTAGRAM TOUR HERE!
Penglipuran Village
The other tour’s finale is at Penglipuran Village. It has preserved traditional Balinese architecture and customs for centuries, making it one of the best examples of cultural heritage on the island. The village streets are lined with bamboo fences and stone pathways, and families maintain their homes according to old rules. Visiting here offers a glimpse of daily life in a community that takes pride in keeping its traditions intact while welcoming curious travelers.
✅ BOOK UBUD w/ PENGLIPURAN VILLAGE HERE!
Whichever of the two options you choose, make sure you choose CENTRAL BALI in the options. Other attractions in Central Bali that are often not included in tours from Ubud are:
Blangsinga Bridge
Blangsinga Glass Bridge is a short but exciting walkway suspended over the Blangsinga River, and the entire floor is clear, so you see everything beneath your feet whether you want to or not. It’s a newer attraction in the area, built to give visitors a quick adrenaline rush without committing to a full-on hike or extreme sport.
The bridge sways a little when people walk across, and crashing sound effects play when you step on certain parts, adding to the fun. The surrounding jungle views also make the whole crossing feel like a mini adventure right in the middle of Gianyar.
Tegenungan Waterfall
Tegenungan Waterfall is one of the most easily accessible waterfalls in Bali, and it’s been attracting visitors for decades. But if you want to get close to the cascade, you’ll still need to trek down the steps (which means you’ll be climbing back up later).
The water drops into a large pool, perfect for a quick swim. The surrounding forest is dense and green, and the roar of the water drowns out the chatter from the crowds above.
Gianyar Night Market
Gianyar Night Market is the perfect place to try local Balinese street food in a lively setting. Stalls sell everything from satay and fried snacks to desserts like klepon. Eating here is casual, fun, and inexpensive, and it’s a great way to experience local flavors after a day of sightseeing.
Taman Ayun Temple
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Taman Ayun Temple was built in 1634 by the Mengwi Kingdom and is surrounded by a wide moat and well-maintained gardens. Its multi-tiered meru towers and stone carvings are impressive examples of Balinese temple architecture. Walking along the paths, you can see how the temple was designed as both a spiritual center and a royal monument.
Sadly, we failed to visit this temple because we ran out of time. But that is one of the reasons we want to go back!
EAST BALI
The drive to East Bali takes a while. The farther you go, the quieter it gets. It’s the part of Bali that feels deeply rooted in its past, where every stop comes with a story. The attractions here are far apart, but the most popular is definitely Lempuyang Temple.
Goa Raja Waterfall
Goa Raja Waterfall is one of those places you won’t find plastered all over postcards, which makes it even better. The name means “King’s Cave,” and true to that, it’s tucked deep inside a forest near Besakih. The trail isn’t too long, but it isn’t short, either. Once you hear the water, you’re close.
The waterfall bursts out of a cave, echoing against mossy rocks while sunlight filters through from above. Locals say the cave is connected spiritually to Pura Besakih, Bali’s Mother Temple, just a few kilometers away. Whether or not you believe that, there’s something special about standing there, half-soaked, surrounded by nothing but water and stone.
But to be honest, Goa Raja wasn’t even in our original itinerary.
Tukad Cepung Falls
We were supposed to visit Tukad Cepung instead, but for some reason, it was closed at the time. Our guide then proposed to just go to Goa Raja. But both waterfalls are known for their curtains that cascade alongside a stream of sunlight. You can also get close to it.
Tirta Gangga
Tirta Gangga was built in the 1940s by the last King of Karangasem. The name means “holy water of the Ganges,” and even today, locals still treat it as a sacred site. The place is a maze of ponds, fountains, and guardian statues.
One pond with stepping stones is particularly popular among tourists that a long line forms around it. We weren’t interested in the photos, though, so we simply walked around the maze of ponds and admired the fountains and guardian statues. But only for a short while. The sun was scorching that day, so we found a shady spot next to a pond and sat for the rest of our stay.
Lempuyang Temple
Lempuyang Temple, one of Bali’s oldest and most sacred temples, is said to date back over a thousand years. Most visitors come for the famous “Gate of Heaven,” the wildly Instagram-famous temple gates that perfectly frame Mount Agung in the background. I’m sure you’ve seen the photo. It’s everywhere! The reflection effect is just a mirror trick, but that didn’t stop the crowds from, well, crowding.
But here’s the thing: If you want to avoid falling in line for hours or you’re after the best conditions, you’ll have to wake up really early, hours before dawn. You see, this temple is located close to the easternmost tip of the island, two to three hours away from Kuta or Seminyak, or even Ubud, depending on the traffic situation.
When you arrive at the parking lot, you’ll need to wait and board a shuttle that will bring you to the entrance. Here, you’ll be given a queue number. You’ll also need to wear a sarong and hike up a bit to the actual temple.
Bear in mind that you have very little control over your time. Since you’re queueing, it will be hard to predict the exact time you will be called for the photos. Mt. Agung might not be visible when it’s your turn, and there’s nothing you can do about it.
There is no physical queue. You can spend the wait time exploring the temple, although when we visited, most parts were closed as they were preparing for a festival the next day. There are other photo spots too.
When it’s finally your turn, the photo session will happen quickly. Very quickly. Probably just a minute or two. It’s free, but you’re expected to make a donation.
Lempuyang Temple is a historic and important religious and cultural site. If you’re visiting because you like temples and you appreciate ancient sites, go for it. If you’re here for a photo, I don’t think the drive and the long wait are worth it. I mean, it’s a great shot, but I don’t think I would wait for hours again just for pics. I haven’t even posted my photos online, haha. Bali has other more picturesque spots. But that’s just my personal opinion.
Because our teammates went here at dawn, Vins and I opted for a sunset visit. So this was actually our LAST stop.
Our timing wasn’t perfect, and the weather did not cooperate. After waiting for hours, when it was finally our turn for the photo, it was so overcast that Mount Agung hid behind the clouds, and so did the sun. We didn’t get to see the sunset at all. But that’s not really the fault of the tour operator. It’s just that weather and wait times are a big factor here, and operators have no control over them.
If you want the sunset tour, this is the exact tour that we booked on Klook:
✅ BOOK LEMPUYANG SUNSET TOUR HERE!
But if you prefer the sunrise tour, book this instead:
✅ BOOK LEMPUYANG SUNRISE TOUR HERE!
Address: Lempuyang Temple, Purwa Ayu Village, Abang District, Karangasem, Bali, Indonesia
Entrance Fee: IDR 70,000
Shuttle Fare: IDR 50,000
Taman Ujung Water Palace
Taman Ujung was built in the early 20th century by the King of Karangasem and combines open ponds, bridges, and traditional Balinese architecture. Walking across the stone pathways over the water, you can enjoy fountains, pavilions, and statues while taking in views of the hills and sky without bumping into anyone.
Other tours also make a stop at Taman Ujung Water Palace, but this wasn’t part of our itinerary.
SOUTH BALI
Southern Bali is the part of the island that most travelers know, with famous beaches, iconic temples, and cultural attractions all packed into a small area. Traffic can be chaotic, but the views, sunsets, and photo ops make it worth the drive.
Most tours have three to four of the following attractions in their itineraries. It’s just a matter of choosing the right combination for you.
Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s most famous sea temples, perched on a rock formation just off the coast. Built in the 16th century, it’s still an active site for worship, and the sunset views draw crowds every evening. The waves crash against the rocks below, making it one of the most photographed spots on the island.
Padang Padang Beach
Padang Padang Beach became famous after a certain Hollywood movie was filmed here, but it’s still worth visiting for its small cove, white sand, and clear water. The path down involves stairs carved into the rocks, which adds a bit of adventure before you hit the beach. It’s popular with surfers and sunbathers, so expect some company during peak hours.
Uluwatu Temple & Kecak Fire Dance
Uluwatu Temple sits on a cliff about 70 meters above the Indian Ocean and is over 1,000 years old. Watching the sunset while the Kecak Fire Dance performance unfolds below is unforgettable. Monkeys roam the temple grounds, so keep an eye on your belongings, and don’t be surprised if one decides your sunglasses are fair game.
Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fire Dance are usually the last two stops in South Tours. But the other two stops can change.
✅ BOOK TANAH LOT + PADANG PADANG + ULUWATU TOUR HERE!
Other sites that could replace Tanah Lot and Padang Padang Beach are:
Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
Garuda Wisnu Kencana is home to one of the tallest statues in the world, depicting Vishnu riding the mythical bird Garuda. The park includes exhibition halls, performance stages, and large open spaces to explore. It’s not only a great place for photos but also for learning about Hindu mythology and Balinese culture.
Melasti Beach
Melasti Beach is a cliffside beach with clear water and dramatic rock formations. It’s less crowded than Padang Padang, making it easier to walk along the shore or take photos. The drive down to the beach involves steep steps, but the views from the top alone are worth the effort.
Nusa Dua Beach
Nusa Dua Beach is lined with luxury resorts but still has a public area where visitors can relax on soft sand or swim in calm waters. It’s perfect for families or anyone looking for a low-key beach day. The promenade along the beach is also great for a leisurely walk with a view of the Indian Ocean.
If you prefer this tour, book this instead:
✅ BOOK GWK + MELASTI BEACH + ULUWATU TOUR HERE!
KUTA, LEGIAN & SEMINYAK
Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak are all in the southern half of Badung Regency. This area is the epicenter of tourism activities in Bali. If you want crowds, energy, and options for literally everything, Kuta, Seminyak, and even Legian deliver. From long sandy beaches to endless restaurants and nightlife, this area is always buzzing. No wonder these are the busiest parts of the island.
Kuta/Legian/Seminyak Beach
Kuta Beach, Legian Beach, and Seminyak Beach are actually parts of the same stretch of sandy shore! It is lined with countless establishments, dotted with surf schools, and scribbled by a constant stream of people. Legian sits right next to Kuta and is slightly calmer but still lively. Seminyak Beach is more upscale, lined with boutique hotels and beach clubs, and popular for watching sunsets over the Indian Ocean. You can easily explore this beach on your own. No need to book a tour.
Seminyak Food Tour
Seminyak has become a foodie hotspot in Bali, offering everything from traditional warungs (small, family-run local eateries) to high-end restaurants. A food tour lets you sample Balinese staples like babi guling, sate lilit, and fresh seafood while discovering tucked-away cafés. You’ll leave stuffed, a little sweaty from walking, and fully convinced that Balinese food deserves more credit than it gets.
Bali Nightlife
Nightlife in Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak ranges from casual beach bars to huge clubs with international DJs. Kuta has the classic party scene with cheap drinks and live music. Seminyak leans more toward upscale lounges and cocktail bars. Either way, it’s easy to find a place to dance, grab a drink, or just people-watch until your feet complain.
Seminyak also has a vibrant gay 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.
NUSA PENIDA
Nusa Penida is a separate island, accessible only by fast boat or ferry from Bali. It is rough, raw, and worth every bump on the road. The island is less developed than mainland Bali, which means roads can be tricky, but the scenery and photo opportunities are incredible.
Kelingking Beach
Kelingking Beach is famous for its T-Rex-shaped cliff, and yes, it looks exactly like the pictures. The viewpoint is high above the ocean, and a hike down to the sand is steep and challenging, but doable if you have sturdy shoes. From the top, the turquoise water and white sand below make the effort feel rewarding, even if your legs are shaking.
Angel’s Billabong
Angel’s Billabong is a natural infinity pool carved into the cliffs where waves crash into the rocks below. The water here is clear and calm at low tide, perfect for dipping your feet or taking photos. Timing is important because high tide can be dangerous, but when it’s right, it’s an unusual and stunning spot.
Broken Beach
Broken Beach, or Pasih Uug, has a massive natural arch that lets ocean water flow into a circular cove. The current is strong, so swimming is not advised, but walking along the cliff gives dramatic views of waves crashing through the arch. It’s a quick stop for photos, but one that shows off the raw power and beauty of the island.
Crystal Beach
Crystal Beach is one of Nusa Penida’s calmer beaches, with golden sand and clear water that’s good for swimming or surfing. The path down is steep but manageable, and the waves are usually gentler than the west coast spots. It’s a nice way to end the day after cliff-hopping and pool-exploring, giving your legs a chance to relax in the sand.
Some tours replace Crystal Beach with another beach.
✅ BOOK NUSA PENIDA FULL DAY TOUR HERE!
DENPASAR
We’re not going to wrap up this article without dabbling in Bali’s capital — Denpasar. It often gets overshadowed by Ubud and the southern beaches, but it’s also full of culture, history, and some of the best eats on the island. A day here can be a mix of exploring traditional sites, wandering public beaches, and sampling food from street vendors to restaurants. It is also less touristy than Kuta or Seminyak.
Puri Agung Jro Kuta
Puri Agung Jro Kuta is a traditional Balinese palace in the heart of Denpasar. It dates back centuries and was once home to the royal family of Kuta. Visitors can explore the gates, courtyards, and intricate carvings while learning about the history of the local monarchy.
Sanur
Sanur is a quieter beach area with a long public stretch perfect for walking or watching the sunrise. Along the beachfront, there are plenty of local food stalls, cafés, and restaurants serving fresh seafood, Nasi Campur, and other Balinese favorites. It’s easy to spend a few hours here combining a stroll along the sand with a casual food crawl.
Food Tour
Denpasar is ideal for a food-focused day because of its variety. Street stalls sell satay, babi guling, and fried snacks, while restaurants offer modern takes on Balinese and Indonesian dishes. Sampling a mix of flavors is easy, and every stop comes with a chance to chat with locals and see how traditional cooking is done.
We booked our tour on Viator:
✅ BOOK DENPASAR FOOD TOUR HERE!
We’ll be creating a separate article, wherein we’ll dive into Bali’s food scene and share with you the best dishes we tried in the island.
We’re talking noodles, babi guling, satay, desserts, and more! We’ll be hitting up everything from street stalls to fancy restaurants, trying all the local favorites and hidden gems!
Where to Stay in Bali
While we have a separate article going deep into the best strategy for choosing your Bali accommodation, we’ve also rounded up some of the best places to stay below for your easy access.
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Top Hotels in Ubud
- Kailash Bali. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- In Da Lodge. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- Dukuh Village Villas. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- Alaya Resort Ubud. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- Kastara Resort Ubud. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
Top Hotels in Kuta
- H-Ostel Bali. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- RakaAyu Kuta. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- Sulis Beach Hotel and Spa. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- Truntum Kuta. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- Grandmas Plus Hotel Airport. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
Top Hotels in Seminyak
- M Boutique Hostel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- Viva Dash Hotel Seminyak. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- Ramada Encore by Wyndham Seminyak Bali. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- Amadea Resort & Villas Seminyak Bali. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- Courtyard Bali Seminyak Resort. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
Search for more Bali Hotels Here!
Have Peace of Mind While Traveling!
Getting a travel insurance is optional, but we highly recommend this, especially when traveling abroad. Travel can be unpredictable, and though we hope we’ll never use it, having it gives us peace of mind in case of unexpected delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For international destinations, consider PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance. You can GET IT HERE. Don’t forget to use WORTHIT for a special affordable rate.
Updates Log
2025 11 23 – First uploaded
Edited by: Asta Alvarez
