With one week in Bali, you have just enough time to visit the highlights, day trip out to Nusa Penida island, explore Ubud, visit a few temples, and go surfing at one of many spectacular beaches on the island. On this 7 day Bali itinerary, we cover everything you need to know to plan your perfect visit to this beautiful country.
Table of Contents
Overview of Bali
Bali is one of over 17,500 islands that make up the archipelagos of Indonesia, but it may be the most famous. It’s the only island in Indonesia that is primarily Hindu and is an excellent hub of culture and adventure.
Up north in Bedugul, you’ll travel off-the-beaten-path and hunt for the island’s best waterfalls, such as Banyumala and Sekumpul. The town itself is situated between several lakes that rest under looming peaks. Travel up here for some spectacular views!
To the east, admire the stunning peaks of Mount Batur and Mount Agung. Swing by some of the most prominent Hindu temples such as Besakih Great Temple, Tirta Gangga, and Pura Lempuyang.
Central Bali is the perfect spot to unwind and take everything in. Here you’ll explore vast rice fields such as Tegallalang and the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, wander through the town of Ubud, and visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary.
Southern Bali features the best beaches on the island, such as Balangan Beach, Uluwatu Beach, and Melasti Beach. Don’t forget to enjoy coastal views at Uluwatu Temple.
Nusa Penida is a smaller island accessible via a 45 minute long ferry. Making the time to visit Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and Diamond Beach is well worth it.
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Ubud
Best Things to Do in Bali in 7 Days
Here is a list of the best things to do in Bali if you only have 7 days. For a longer list of things to do, check out our Bali Bucket List.
- Visit the Ulutwatu beaches
- Uluwatu Temple
- Tanah Lot Temple
- Day trip to Nusa Penida
- Sunset dinner on the beach
- Visit the Tegallalang and/or Jatiluwih rice terraces
- Besakih Great Temple
- Pura Lempuyang and the Gate of Heaven
- Aling-Aling Waterfall
- Spend some time in Ubud
- Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
- Ulun Danu
- Mount Batur sunrise hike
7 Day Bali Itinerary
This itinerary is very similar to our 5 Day Bali Itinerary, with some days having the same schedule. With the two extra days, this itinerary includes a day trip out to Nusa Penida Island and another day to explore East Bali.
Day 1: Arrive in Uluwatu
Day 2: Southern Beaches
Day 3: Nusa Penida
Day 4: Ubud
Day 5: East Bali
Day 6: North Balinese Highlands
Day 7: Ubud & Fly Home
About This Itinerary
When planning my trip, I found a lot of visitors travel to Bali for about 5 to 7 days. Given the large array of things to see and the island’s long travel times, it is best to spend as much as you can in Bali. If you have more than a week, don’t miss our 10 Day Bali Itinerary.
This itinerary is designed for those traveling Bali with a private driver or rented car/motorbike. These are the best methods of island transport that guarantee you a sense of freedom and safety to see the sites at your own pace.
Due to the new policy passed by Bali’s governor banning tourist mountain activity, the Mount Batur sunrise hike is an optional activity on this itinerary. The policy has been stated to be in permanent effect, but it has not been enforced, and at the time that we are publishing this itinerary, guided hikes of Mount Batur are still being offered. However, this could change at any time, which is why we are listing it as “optional.”
If your trip coincides with the Balinese New Year, which occurs in March, learn what to expect on Nyepi Day.
7 Day Bali Itinerary
7 Day Bali Itinerary: Day 1
Arrive in Uluwatu
To maximize your time today, plan to land in Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar – DPS) in the morning. Depending on when your flight lands, you may have limited time today. I flew into Denpasar from Sydney, landing around 12:00pm. This is a very light day to get adjusted, so a late landing won’t cause you to miss anything important.
It took a little over an hour to grab our bags and go through customs. From here, drive to your stay in Uluwatu (about 1 hour drive).
Afternoon in Uluwatu
There are numerous beaches in the area that are all worth your time to visit, such as Thomas Beach, Bingin Beach or Dreamland Beach. Depending on your accommodation, you may be situated on one of these. After unpacking, you have the choice to drive out to a nearby beach (about a 5 to 15 minute drive) or unwind at your hotel. The choice is yours.
Aerial view of Bingin Beach | shutterstock.com/lemaret pierrick
Dinner at Bingin Beach
What better way to enjoy a welcome to Bali than with a tasty sunset dinner on the beach. For a well-priced meal on the beach, visit Lucky Fish Lounge. For a live music venue that’s a little bit pricey but well worth it, try El Kabron. Both get excellent reviews and will provide a pleasant end to your first day.
Where to Stay in Uluwatu
LUXURY: Jumeirah Bali. For the ultimate in luxury, look no farther than uameirah Bali. Rooms range from ocean villas with private pools to two bedroom villas that come with a butler service and complimentary airport transfers. There is an onsite restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, and fitness center.
UPSCALE: The Bingin Beach Villas’ Private Villas. Rooms are two and three bedroom private villas, some with their own private pool. There is an outdoor swimming pool and all rooms come with a kitchen and balcony. Some villas can accommodate up to 6 people, making this a great choice for families.
UPSCALE: Hari Indah Boutique Hotel & Spa. This bed and breakfast has an outdoor pool and onsite restaurant. It is beautifully decorated and multiple guests call it a “hidden gem” in the reviews. This property gets near perfect reviews on Booking.com.
MID-RANGE: The Elementum. Located in Bingin, this 3-star boutique hotel gets exceptional reviews. Rooms are double rooms and some have a sea view. The property has a pool and onsite restaurant.
MID-RANGE: Mule Malu Tropical Stay. This gorgeous hotel is located near Bingin and Dreamland beaches. Rooms are spacious and some have a view of the pool. Bathrooms are open-air and rooms are air conditioned.
MID-RANGE: Kalia Bingin – Adult Only. If you like the idea of staying in an adult only hotel, this one is a great option. Take your pick from double and quadruple rooms, all of which are very spacious and well decorated.
BUDGET: Teges Asri by Bukit Vista. This 2-star hotel is located in Bingin. It comes with a pool and offers free parking. All rooms have a private bathroom. Rooms can accommodate up to two people.
7 Day Bali Itinerary: Day 2
Uluwatu, Balangan, Nusa Dua, and Melasti Beach
What better way to start your first full day in Bali than by soaking in the sun at some of the best beaches on the island?
Today is arguably the lightest day in the remaining itinerary, and the most flexible. There are 4 beaches to visit today, each with plenty of time to enjoy their unique charm. If one beach catches your eye more than others, you have the flexibility to modify this schedule and spend more time there or remove your least-favorite beach altogether.
9:00 am: Surf at Balangan Beach
12:00 pm: Nusa Dua Beach
3:00 pm:Melasti Beach
4:30 pm: Uluwatu Temple
6:00 pm: Uluwatu Beach for a sunset dinner
9:00 am: Surf at Balangan Beach
The first time I visited Bali back in 2015, I spent a week in Seminyak. Expecting a beautiful white sand beach, I was disappointed to see it run down and covered in trash.
8 years later, I finally found what I was looking for. Balangan beach is stunning. It’s much more secluded and lesser known, giving it some charm. The golden sand beach is nestled at the bottom of a short cliff, with parking lots located close above. Go for a swim in the pristine water, then unwind under an umbrella and sip a cocktail.
Balangan Beach | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
I spent hours here surfing the waves and had a perfect day for it. Swells at Balangan are solid all year-round and can be surfed by those of all skill levels. Larger swells will hit the western shores in Bali’s dry season (May through September). It’s then that waves are perfect for intermediate and advanced surfers, but beginners should take caution.
I found that the waves were excellent for beginners during the tail end of Bali’s wet season (November – April). A few hours at Balangan beach may end up being the highlight of your trip.
12:00 pm: Lunch at Nusa Dua Beach
Roughly an hour’s drive from Balangan Beach, Nusa Dua is a secluded paradise surrounded by luxury resorts and restaurants. Here you’ll find a long, wide stretch of golden sand and calm turquoise waters that go miles up the coast.
If choosing to eat lunch here, I recommend Sateria Beachfront or Ikan Restaurant. Looking to grab a nice drink? Try Kulkul Beach House. All restaurants are located right on the beach, some of which being on resort property. Due to location, meals are a bit pricey for Balinese standards, but much cheaper than Western standards. For example, an entrée at Ikan Restaurant costs roughly 150K IDR, or $10.
3:00 pm: Melasti Beach
Looking for a beautiful, lesser-known beach with golden sands and turquoise waters? Look no further than Melasti Beach, located on Bali’s southern shores.
This beach is perfect for a swim, where you’re treated to beautiful views of the surrounding limestone cliffs. While here, take a quick 5 minute walk out to Bali’s southernmost point!
Melasti Beach is roughly a 40 minute drive from Balangan Beach, Nusa Dua Beach, and Uluwatu Temple. This makes it very easy to reach from any location on today’s itinerary.
Melasti Beach | Olexandr Taranukhin/shutterstock.com
4:30 pm: Uluwatu Temple
This Balinese Hindu temple provides scenic views of the surrounding cliffs and is also an excellent hub of unexpected entertainment. The temple is perched atop a cliff that overlooks the southwestern shores, making for some incredible views.
Uluwatu Temple | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
The main attraction for me, however, were the monkeys that roamed the temple. These guys were surprisingly bold, stealing hats and sunglasses right off visitors’ heads! Luckily, the monkeys are more curious than aggressive, so keep a tight grip on your belongings here.
You cannot enter the very top of the temple unless for prayer. I learned that the shots I saw online of the temple were all via drone, which is now banned. Instead of grabbing the perfect shot of the temple, I instead admired the coastline and watched the monkeys wreak havoc on unsuspecting tourists
You will receive a sarong with your entry ticket, which is required at the temple. The temple also hosts a Kecak dance performance daily at 6pm (150K IDR per adult). It took me an hour to visit Uluwatu temple, not including the dance. If you are interested in watching the performance, be prepared to allocate more time here and have a late dinner.
Hours: 7am-7pm
Cost: Adult 50K IDR, Child 30K IDR
6:00 pm: Sunset Dinner at Uluwatu Beach
Only a 10-minute drive from Uluwatu Temple, Uluwatu Beach is the perfect spot for a sunset dinner. From great restaurants, stunning views, and fantastic surf, Uluwatu Beach has it all. The cliffside is terraced with restaurants and shops that overlook the water below. Wander the paths, shop at a few vendor stalls, and enjoy the secluded beach that rests below.
Uluwatu Beach is world-famous for surfing. The region hosts fantastic reef-breaks that are flocked by experienced surfers worldwide. At the base of the cliffs lies the beach (also known as Blue Point Beach) where surfers can begin their paddle-out. For beachgoers, this cove opens up at low tide for people to sunbathe.
Uluwatu Beach | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
Single Fin restaurant | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
Expect to spend about 2-3 hours here. I spent my time here soaking up the views at Single Fin, a restaurant located at the top of the cliffside. I enjoyed my time watching the surfers and relishing the moment. We ate lunch here and did not need a reservation. However, it was still pretty busy and for dinner, I would recommend booking in advance. You can make a reservation here.
7 Day Bali Itinerary: Day 3
Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is a smaller island located directly offshore from Bali. Its exotic nature, beautiful beaches and cliffs are much quieter than Bali, and in my opinion, they’re also more beautiful.
About Nusa Penida
There are several key locations to visit on Nusa Penida, including Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and Diamond Beach. Not only are the beaches scenic, but Nusa Penida also offers some of the best snorkeling in the Bali region.
The island is generally broken up into the west and east sides, taking about 2 hours to drive between each.
The most popular way to visit Nusa Penida is with a pre-booked tour. The day tours you’ll find only encompass either the west or east side.
If you want to experience the full thing, you’ll have to stay overnight. Nusa Penida is a lot less dense than Bali in terms of population, although you’ll still find a good range of accommodation. A few of the Airbnb’s I’ve seen are absolutely beautiful.
Visiting Nusa Penida
There are two ways to tour Nusa Penida: with a guide and on your own. Most tourists prefer to book a day tour that includes a guide and transportation (both to & from the island, as well as on Nusa Penida). Alternatively, you can hire a private driver to take you around Nusa Penida. There are also multi-day tours that you can book if you’d like to explore both the west and east sides of the island. Solo travel to Nusa Penida has also become more popular recently, with many travelers booking an overnight stay on the island.
The only way to get to Nusa Penida from Bali is via a 45 minute long ferry. The ferry departs from Sanur Beach, located 45 minutes from Ubud. You can visit Nusa Penida on your own, but I’d recommend booking a tour if you’re planning on day tripping. It’s a bit more expensive but eliminates a ton of unwanted hassle.
I booked with Four Elements and had a wonderful experience. They provided transportation from our resort to & from the Sanur harbor, as well as a guide that drove us around the western side of Nusa Penida.
The western side of Nusa Penida is a bit more popular and very beautiful. For that reason, this 7 Day Bali Itinerary will include a day trip out to Nusa Penida’s western coast. If booking with Four Elements, this is the schedule you’ll roughly be following for the day.
8:00 am: Arrive at Sanur Harbor (hour drive from Uluwatu)
9:30 am: Get off ferry at Nusa Penida
10:30 am: Broken Beach & Angel’s Billabong
12:15 pm: Kelingking Beach
1:30 pm: Lunch
3:30 pm: Depart Nusa Penida Island
5:30 pm: Dinner in Uluwatu
8:00 am: Arrive in Sanur Harbor
It’s an early morning today. It takes a little over one hour to drive to Sanur from Uluwatu, so expect to leave your accommodation around 7am. Once at the harbor, buy your ferry tickets if traveling solo. If you’ve booked a tour, ferry tickets should be provided to you.
The ferry takes 45 minutes to reach Nusa Penida. The waves can be choppy depending on the weather, so if you’re prone to seasickness I recommend taking medicine before boarding. They ensure that every seat on the ferry is filled, so it’ll be a bit of a tight ride over.
9:30 am: Arrive on Nusa Penida
If you’ve booked a tour, keep an eye out for the driver that’s provided. He/she will be your guide for the day while on Nusa Penida. If you’re traveling solo, there will be places to rent motorbikes for the duration of your trip.
10:30 am: Broken Beach & Angel’s Billabong
The first stop on your trip, these two are located within walking distance of each other, about an hour down the coast from the harbor.
At Broken Beach you’ll find a short cliffside walk where you can admire the beach itself, the surrounding cliffs, and a natural arch. You may even find a group of snorkelers in the water below. You cannot reach the beach on this trail; the only way is via a boat.
Broken Beach | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
Angel’s Billabong is a small rock formation just a few minutes’ walk from Broken Beach. Essentially, it’s a tiny pool of water surrounded by jagged rock walls that sits above sea level (depending on the tide). Personally, I didn’t see much appeal here, especially in comparison with Broken Beach.
12:15 pm: Kelingking Beach
In my opinion, Kelingking Beach is the most scenic beach in the region, more so than any of the beaches in Bali. When visiting it felt as if I’d been transported back to Krabi, Thailand. If that’s not reason enough to make the trip, I don’t know what is.
The beach is encompassed by a formation of sheer limestone cliffs that drop off into the water below. At Kelingking Beach, visitors can walk down the picturesque steps to the beach below. It is a long walk, so make sure you bring some water on a hot day. Once at the bottom, take a dip in the ocean and unwind.
Kelingking Beach | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
1:30 pm: Lunch
For those traveling on a pre-booked tour, lunch should be included in your schedule. Your guide will take you to a nearby restaurant where you can enjoy some delicious Balinese food. This also marked the final stop on my Nusa Penida tour.
3:30 pm: Depart Nusa Penida
Be prepared for a hot ferry ride back. The ferry I took didn’t have any cooling systems in the cabin, so due to the Bali heat the inside of my ferry turned into a furnace. The only thing keeping me sane as I sweat profusely was the window that was slightly open next to me. As we crested a large wave, a small amount of ocean spray would shoot through and cool me off.
5:30 pm: Dinner
Once back in Uluwatu, the rest of the evening is yours. Relax at your resort or head out to a nearby beach to grab dinner.
7 Day Bali Itinerary: Day 4
Tegallalang, Tirta Empul, Ubud
Today you’ll complete the 2 hour drive between Uluwatu and Ubud and spend the first half of your day at 2 extraordinary sites. The rest of the day is yours.
8:00 am: Depart from Uluwatu
10:15 am: Tegallalang Rice Terraces
11:45 am: Tirta Empul
1:15 pm: Lunch in Ubud
8:00 am: Depart from Uluwatu
There’s a good amount to see today, so you’ll want to make sure you’re up and at ‘em early. It’s a little over 2 hours to reach Tegallalang, so for now just enjoy the views on your drive up.
10:15 am: Tegallalang Rice Terraces
The rice terraces at Tegallalang may be one of the most picturesque spots on the island. When planning a trip to Bali, a trip is incomplete without a view of this terraced valley. I visited at the late end of the rainy season in March, so everything had a lush green color, and the rice plants were in full bloom.
Tegallalang Rice Terraces | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
There are plenty of different areas of Tegallalang that are worth your visit. There are several Bali swings located within the rice terraces that we recommend checking out. It’s here that you can recreate the iconic photo showing someone swinging out over the jungle.
Look for the “I love Bali” sign, it’s hard to miss and a popular swing sits right by there. Visitors are also welcome to wander this UNESCO site at their own leisure and may have to pay tiny entrance fees that go towards supporting the local infrastructure.
If you’re looking for the perfect photo, the best time to photograph Tegalalang is in the early morning. You’ll have soft lighting that will help make your photos pop. If you’d like to arrive at Tegalalang earlier in the morning, shift everything in this day’s schedule back a few hours. Just be prepared for a very early wake-up.
Hours: 7am-6pm
Cost: 25K IDR
Optional: Cretya Ubud
Want more time here? Take a short 2 minute drive down to Cretya Ubud. This restaurant/bar is perched atop the rice terraces, giving guests a stunning view of Tegallalang. They have several infinity pools that guests can enjoy, as well as a DJ that performs daily. Grab breakfast and maybe a cheeky drink to go along with it. Relax, you’re in Bali. A breakfast entrée costs roughly 95K, or $6.
This itinerary does not factor in time at Cretya Ubud. If you’d like to unwind here for an hour or two, make sure to adjust your schedule appropriately.
Hours: 8am-9pm
Learn more here.
11:45 am: Tirta Empul
Tirta Empul is a sacred Hindu Balinese water temple located only a few miles from Tegallalang. The main draw of this temple is its pools of holy water and spiritual influence. Visitors will travel to bathe in the water, taking part in a cleansing ritual for self-purification. Whether you’re an active practitioner or not, anyone is welcome within these pools.
Tirta Empul | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
The temple itself isn’t very large and may only take you five minutes to wander the full thing. Your length of stay will be determined by your choice to take part in the purification ritual. If interested in entering the pools (which is something we strongly recommend), there are sarongs to rent at the temple for 10K IDR. I spent an hour here and found bathing in the pools to be one of the most unique travel experiences I’ve had.
Hours: 8am – 6pm
Cost: 50K IDR, 10K extra for a sarong
Tirta Empul | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
1:30 pm: Lunch and Afternoon in Ubud
From Tirta Empul, continue to Ubud, have lunch in town, and get settled into your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is free. Use this time to go shopping, and relax at your hotel or resort.
Shopping in Ubud | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
Where to Stay in Ubud
LUXURY: The Kayon Valley Resort. This 5-star resort is located on the outskirts of Ubud. Each room is a villa that has its own private pool and views of the surrounding forest.
LUXURY: Royal Kamuela Villas & Suites at Monkey Forest Ubud. This property has an excellent location near the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Take your pick from a one-bedroom villa with a private pool or a large suite that overlooks the hotel pool.
UPSCALE: Kastara Resort. This property gets nothing but wonderful reviews. All rooms are air conditioned and come with a balcony and/or pool with a view of the tropical forest. This resort also has an infinity pool and bar.
MID-RANGE: Ranggen Ubud. Located in Ubud’s city center, it is just a short walk to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, shopping, and restaurants. This boutique hotel gets exceptional reviews. All rooms are double rooms and are air conditioned and have a balcony. This is one of our top picks if you want to stay in the heart of Ubud.
MID-RANGE: Angsoka Bungalow. This boutique hotel is located outside of the city center (about a 15 minute drive). But what you get is a Balinese-style hotel with an infinity pool that has views of the surrounding forest. This is one of the highest rated hotels in Ubud.
MID RANGE: Gayatri.This hotel has it all: an excellent location in Ubud, rave reviews and a gorgeous pool. It’s another great pick if you want to stay in the heart of Ubud. Some rooms accommodate up to 4 people, making this a nice choice for families.
BUDGET: Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel. This is where I stayed in Ubud and had a fantastic experience. Rooms range from dormitory style rooms to private double rooms. There is a large common area centered around a pool and gardens. This hotel has an awesome location in the Ubud city center.
BUDGET: Ubud Rice Field House. This hostel has a great location in Ubud. Relax by the picturesque infinity pool and enjoy the breakfast, which prior guests rave about.
7 Day Bali Itinerary: Day 5
Besakih Great Temple, Tirta Gangga, Pura Lempuyang
Today features three major Balinese Hindu sites, all spread out over the eastern side of the island. This schedule is built around seeing Pura Lempuyang at sunset. If you’d like to see it at sunrise to avoid the crowds, complete today’s itinerary in reverse order.
12:30 pm: Besakih Great Temple
2:30 pm: Tirta Gangga
3:30 pm: Pura Lempuyang
Optional: Mount Batur Sunrise Hike
If you want to do the Mount Batur sunrise hike, this is the best day to do it, since the day has a late start. The Mount Batur sunrise hike has an extremely early wake up, since you have to drive to the base of Mount Batur and hike to its summit in time for sunrise.
Mount Batur Sunrise Hike | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
To do this hike, your pick up time by your tour operator will be around 2:30 am (that is not a typo). The hike takes 3 to 4 hours, so you’ll finish up mid-morning, which gives you plenty of time to start the itinerary below.
Again, because of the recent Bali ban, there is a chance that hiking tours could be cancelled in the future, so you will need to keep in touch with your tour operator in the days and weeks leading up to your hike.
For full details about the hike and recommended tour operators, take a look at our Guide to the Mount Batur Sunrise Hike.
12:30 pm: Besakih Great Temple
Besakih is the largest Balinese Hindu temple on the island. It’s a giant complex of smaller shrines and temples that can only be described as impressive. Besakih is also the oldest and holiest temple on the island, rightfully being nicknamed “The Mother Temple”. Located near Mount Agung, the highest peak in Bali, you are treated to spectacular views of the volcano and surrounding countryside.
Besakih Temple | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
Besakih Great Temple takes roughly one hour to explore.
Hours: 8am-6pm
Cost: 60K IDR
2:30 pm: Tirta Gangga
The water gardens at Tirta Gangga are a unique spectacle that is almost always flocked by tourists. The former palace-turned-sanctuary is famous for its array of fountains and stepping stones which have caught the eye of photographers over the past couple years.
When I visited in March of 2023, I found it to be packed with hundreds of visitors all attempting to get their perfect photo. The only problem was that practically every stepping stone was occupied by someone, making it impossible to grab a half-decent shot.
Tirta Gangga | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
Tirta Gangga | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
Although it can be considered a tourist trap, a visit to Tirta Gangga may still be worth it for you. It’s a beautiful sanctuary that is also conveniently located near both Besakih Great Temple and Pura Lempuyang. The site is located near the eastern shores of Bali and a short drive from the base of Mount Agung. A quick 30-minute visit is perfect for Tirta Gangga.
Hours: 8am-5pm
Cost: 50K IDR
3:30 pm: Pura Lempuyang
Chances are you may have seen a photo of the “Gate of Heaven” while planning your trip to Bali. The gate at Pura Lempuyang is one of the most photographed spots on the island and has become extremely popular to visit over the last decade.
On a clear day, you can see Mount Agung framed within the gate, and in some photos, you’ll see a reflective pool that adds a mystical vibrance.
There are some issues to be wary of when visiting Pura Lempuyang. For starters, it has been heavily over-touristed and hundreds travel up the mountainside everyday to grab their photos.
When you reach the gate, you’ll be given a number that corresponds to your queue position. Chances are you’ll find a large courtyard full of people waiting in line and a local photographer aimed at the gate. Remember the reflective pool you may have seen in photos? That’s actually a clever trick with a mirror that the hired photographer uses.
Expect a looooong wait for your photos!! Wait times are generally 2-3 hours long, and yes, this is normal. When I visited at this time in March, I had over 100 people ahead of me in line! I decided not to wait for my own photo, instead snapping a photo of the gate while groups were in transition.
The gate itself is beautiful, and I believe it’s worth driving out here just to admire the view. If you’re like me and waiting around for 3 hours for a photo sounds like hell, this will be a quick visit. For those that are more patient and really want their photo at the gate, expect to spend 3 hours at Pura Lempuyang.
Photos are best at sunset, so if you arrive at 3:30 pm you may get the perfect shot. At 5 pm they don’t allow any new visitors to arrive at the temple, but those already in queue can stay.
The Gate of Heaven | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
There is a large carpark at the base of the temple. From here, you’ll ride a shuttle up to Pura Lempuyang and purchase your entry tickets. You cannot drive your own vehicle up to the temple, you must take the shuttle or walk (it’s a steep 40 minute uphill walk). Your entry ticket will include a sarong that you must wear on temple grounds.
Hours: 7am – 5pm
Cost: 45K IDR (shuttle) & 55K IDR (entry)
Website: Get updated hours and pricing on the official website.
7 Day Bali Itinerary: Day 6
Ulun Danu, Banyumala Waterfall, Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Today you’ll travel up into the northern highlands of Bali. Visiting temples, waterfalls, and rice terraces, today could be the perfect “One Day in Bali Itinerary.”
8:00 am: Depart from Ubud
9:30 am: Ulun Danu
10:25 am: Handara Gate
11:00 am: Banyumala Waterfall
12:45 pm: Lunch OR Aling-Aling Waterfall
3:30 pm: Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
6:00 pm: Dinner & Drinks in Ubud
9:30 am: Ulun Danu
This picturesque temple sits right on top of Lake Beratan. Situated right off the main road, Ulun Danu is very easy to reach and well worth your time. You get stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountainside. There is also a small park and other minor temples situated within the campus, allowing you to make the most of your money.
Ulun Danu | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
It takes an hour and a half to drive to Ulun Danu from Ubud. Ulun Danu is beautiful to see in the early morning glow, so if you’re willing to get here earlier, adjust today’s schedule appropriately.
Hours: 7am – 7pm
Cost: 75K IDR
10:25 am: Handara Gate
Flocked by thousands of tourists every year, Handara Gate has become a bit of a tourist trap. The gate is iconic, but when I visited in late March, I found a very slow moving line of people waiting to get their photo taken. After waiting in line for over 30 minutes, I quickly snapped my photos before moving on.
Handara Gate | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
I found that the gate was a lot more underwhelming than it appeared in the photos. However, the gate is directly enroute from Ulun Danu, so it’s worth parking and admiring for a few minutes. There is also an employee that can snap your photo if you do not have your own camera or are traveling solo. I still recommend checking it out but beware of the crowds. I arrived around sunset, which is when the gate may be most crowded. In the late morning, crowds should be at a minimum.
Cost: 30K IDR
11:00 am: Banyumala Twin Waterfall
I love Banyumala Waterfall. Visiting Banyumala was one of my favorite experiences on the island.
Towering at a height of roughly 26 meters, this waterfall is both impressive and one of the best instagrammable spots in Bali. It’s not as popular as some of the other nearby falls, so you may have the entire place to yourself.
Banyumala is also two waterfalls that converge in the same pool. Talk about a great spot for a swim!
Banyumala Waterfall | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
There is a small parking lot that’s a 10 minute walk to the actual falls. On the way you’ll pass a small concession stand where you can pay the entry fee. Further on is a steep staircase down to the falls which can be slippery when wet. I arrived at 9 am and had the entire place to myself. Even in the late morning, you may only see a handful of people here.
There is also a small dirt trail that takes you to a secluded lower waterfall. This one is equally as impressive with its terraced structure and has a small swimming pool. It’s a 2-minute walk from the twin waterfalls.
Hours: 8am-6pm
Cost:25K IDR
12:30 pm: Lunch or Aling-Aling Waterfall
Based on how the sites are located, you won’t be able to visit another waterfall without sacrificing time for lunch. Alternatively, if you are dying to experience Aling-Aling but also want to sit and grab a bite, you’d have to leave Ubud earlier than 8am. It’s totally possible but be prepared for a longer day. In my opinion, it’s 100% worth the early wake-up.
Option 1: Lunch
Grab lunch in Bedugul. If traveling with a private driver, ask them if they have any restaurant recommendations.
Option 2: Aling-Aling Waterfall
As an adrenaline junkie, the Aling-Aling Waterfalls were my favorite experience throughout my time in Bali. This spot is more like an adventure park, featuring three cliff jumps of various heights and a waterfall slide. For all the jumps there is a tiny ledge for daring visitors to jump off from, and below lies a deep pool of water.
Kroya waterfall slide
Kembar waterfall
Both the waterfall slide and cliff jumps are perfectly safe. Upon entry, you’ll hire a guide that will show you around the area and assist you on the waterfall slide. Our guide was fantastic, and this wouldn’t have been my favorite experience if it weren’t for him. Life jackets are provided for the waterfall slide to you protect your back.
Aling-Aling was such an epic experience that I recommend anyone to make the time to visit. Even if you don’t consider yourself an adrenaline junkie, there is still plenty of fun to be had. Learn more in our Guide to the Aling-Aling Waterfalls.
Hours: 8am – 5pm
Cost: 125K IDR (includes guide, which is required)
3:30 pm: Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Located in central Bali, the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces may be one of the most scenic locations on the entire island. Massive rice fields stretch out for as far as the eye can see, framed by several of Bali’s largest volcanoes in the background. Jatiluwih is an underrated site that doesn’t get a lot of attention from tourists, which I found shocking due to its stunning beauty.
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces | Edmund Lowe Photography/shutterstock.com
The best time to visit is from February to April as the rice stalks will be in full bloom. While here, soak in the views and wander the fields. The area is so expansive that you could spend hours hiking.
A visit to Jatiluwih Rice Terraces could last anywhere from 1 to 3 hours. Spend time wandering the fields and stick around for golden hour to capture some sweet pictures.
Hours: 8am-6pm
Cost: 40K IDR
6:00 pm: Dinner & Drinks in Ubud
Read the “Where to Eat in Ubud” for dinner recommendations for tonight. I recommend Divya Bar, where you can enjoy a meal and a drink on their rooftop bar. If you want to barhop, there are two other solid rooftop bars across the street, Sami Warung and Mozzarella.
7 Day Bali Itinerary: Day 7
Exploring Ubud, Tanah Lot, Fly Home
Today is broken into 2 segments: time in Ubud, and your drive between Ubud and the airport. You’ll visit 2 major attractions as well as enjoy 2 less-touristy experiences. If traveling with a private driver, you’ll only need to hire one for the afternoon, once departing Ubud. The rest of the day can be completed on foot or via taxi.
7:00 am: Campuhan Ridge Walk
9:00 am: Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
11:00 am: Free time in Ubud
3:00 pm: Depart Ubud
4:30 pm:Sari Uma Coffee Plantation
5:30 pm: Tanah Lot
6:30 pm: Drive to Airport
7:00 am: Campuhan Ridge Walk
This short, 2 mile roundtrip walk is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the Balinese countryside. Right outside downtown Ubud, you’ll walk between rice fields on a paved stone path. I never completed this walk simply because I ran out of time, so I’m saving it for my next trip back to Bali.
The best part of the walk is the first half-mile, where you’re standing on the elevated ridge and get sweeping views of the surrounding jungle. The full roundtrip walk takes roughly one hour to complete.
Since today’s schedule is much lighter than previous days, you have the freedom to complete the walk anytime in the morning. I recommend starting the Campuhan Ridge Walk in the early morning (6:30-7:00am), as you can get excellent sunrise lighting and stay out of the harsh Bali heat.
Campuhan Ridge Walk | Maria_Usp/shutterstock.com
9:00 am: Sacred Forest Monkey Sanctuary
The Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud is one of the most popular attractions in Bali. This nature reserve houses hundreds of monkeys that freely roam the collection of forested temples. A major highlight for me was getting up close with a few of the monkeys under the guidance of a park guide.
There are more than monkeys to see at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Much to my delight, there are several temples to visit.
The highlight of the temples are the carvings of monkeys, frogs, and other strange looking animals, all looking somewhat ferocious and menacing. Their moss-covered bodies made the temples seem mystical and otherworldly, like I was out in the middle of the jungle even though I was in downtown Ubud.
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
My friend Cam with a monkey
Hours: 9am – 6pm
Cost: Adult 80K IDR, Child 60K IDR.
Get updated hours and pricing on the official website.
11:00 am: Free Time in Ubud
You have a few hours here to enjoy Ubud however you see fit. Grab some lunch, go shopping downtown, or even get a massage! If you’re worn out from the past few days, feel free to relax at your resort. Be prepared to leave Ubud at 3:00 pm.
4:30 pm: Sari Uma Coffee Plantation
Before traveling here, visiting a coffee plantation would never have made my itinerary. One day my driver spontaneously asked me if I’d like to visit a plantation to taste some local coffee & tea. Although hesitant, I kept an open-mind and went along with the experience.
I arrived for the tasting session at this quaint house out in the countryside. The woman working there came out with a tray of 16 tiny cups, each with a different flavor. Each and every one of them was delicious. So much so that I immediately purchased several bags of coffee grounds to take home. Sitting out in the countryside and sipping on tasters was one of the highlights of my trip.
Coffee and tea tasting | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
Sari Uma is a small coffee plantation located 5 minutes from Tanah Lot. If you’d like to catch the sunset at Tanah Lot, you have a full hour here at Sari Uma. That’s plenty of time to decide which flavor you like the most!
5:30 pm: Tanah Lot Temple
Tanah Lot rests on a small outcropping by the shore and is famous for its romantic setting and sunsets. At low tide, you can walk out to the base of the temple, but tourists are not allowed to enter. Despite this fact, it has remained one of the most popular attractions in Bali, and I’d consider it to be 100% worth it.
Tanah Lot | Sergii Figurnyi/shutterstock.com
There is a park that rests up on the cliff above that viewers can enter. Wander the cliff edge and admire the waves crashing against the temple’s base. Views are best at sunset, so be prepared to take plenty of photos.
Hours: 7am – 7pm
Cost: Adult 60K IDR, Child 30K IDR.
Learn more on the official website.
Planning Your Trip to Bali
Where to Eat in Ubud
As is the case with all 3 of these itineraries, you’ll be spending most of your time in and around Ubud. Ubud was my favorite place I stayed in Bali and the place I spent the most time. Given this, here are my recommendations on where to eat in Ubud:
Mamma Mia is an Italian restaurant located right by the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. For a cheap price you can enjoy a tasty entrée and sip a glass of wine. I ate several meals here and there always seems to be a good crowd. Don’t forget to order a homemade Chocolate-cello shot while you’re here!
Ivy Café is located within Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel. I stayed at Puri Garden for 3 nights, so I ended up enjoying multiple meals at Ivy. They offer both local and international food on their menu for a cheap price.
Nostimo Greek Grill Ubud is a minute’s walk away from Mamma Mia. They get great reviews and always seemed to be packed for dinner. I’d recommend calling to make a reservation the day of if planning on eating here for dinner.
Taco Casa Ubud is perfect for anyone with a craving for Mexican food (which was me my last day here). Meals are well-priced, and portions are hearty. Did I mention the food tastes delicious?
Taco Casa Ubud | 7 Day Bali Itinerary
Pistachio enjoys a bit of seclusion from the hustle of Ubud. It’s further out from downtown Ubud but still within walking distance (~15 min). They offer a wide range of international and local Balinese food and are one of the highest rated restaurants in Ubud.
Divya Bar is a restaurant in downtown Ubud that features a rooftop bar. They get great reviews and are in a convenient location if you’re interested in shopping or barhopping. Across the street are two other rooftop bars, Sami Warung and Mozzarella.
Tropical Restaurant Ubud is right in the heart of town. They have a great menu and, on some nights, will feature live music. I enjoyed the best Mojito of my life here, which I feel is great praise coming from a practicing bartender.
How to Get Around Bali
The roads of Bali are a nightmare to traverse. Everyone takes a more relaxed style to traffic laws and lanes are non-existent. You can guarantee that there will always be traffic (don’t expect to crack 20miles/32km per hour in urban areas), and the roads can be described as “organized chaos”.
Knowing this, always allocate more time to traverse the island as you will most likely get caught in a slowdown. The time estimates on Google Maps are pretty accurate (but add 15 to 30 minutes just in case).
Private Driver
The easiest and safest way to traverse the island, but also the most expensive. This was how we traveled between sites every day of our trip.
With a private driver, you have the freedom to select when & where you want to travel. They are there to make the most of your trip, and from my experience they were some of the kindest people I’ve ever met. We booked with Bali Hire Driver and had no issues. Ask for Suwardana, he was our driver for the last 3 days of our trip and is an absolute legend!
You can hire a driver with GetYourGuide and prices average out to roughly $50 to $65 USD to have a driver for 10 hours for a group of five people.
Rental Car
Friends of mine had rented a car to travel around Bali. Although it is much cheaper than hiring a driver, I don’t believe the hassle of driving your own car is worth it. Having to worry about parking and driving Balinese roads, which can be pure chaos, is only recommended if you’re absolutely confident in your ability behind the wheel. Ensure you have a viable international driver’s license before renting.
Scooter Rental
Using a scooter to navigate Bali can be more relaxed than driving a car and gives you a higher sense of freedom. This is our recommendation for those who want to save money and have a lot of experience driving a scooter. The crazy Bali roads are not the place to learn how to drive a scooter.
Make sure you have a viable international driver’s license as this is required. For more information, check out this article as they explain the process very well.
Public Transport
Taxis are not hard to find in Bali. When walking down the street you may have dozens of Balinese people ask if you’d like a ride. As tiresome as it can be, it is pretty convenient. This is only recommended for traveling short distances, as taxi drivers can scam you by taking the longer route. If you’re travelling across the island, you’re better off hiring a private driver.
There is a bus system, although it can be hot, dusty, and crowded. We found that they were almost always packed to the brim with people. Traveling by bus may be the cheapest option, but it doesn’t always give you the flexibility to view sites along the way to your final destination.
Note: There is NO UBER in Bali! Use “Grab” instead, an app that functions in a similar way to Uber.
If you have any questions about this 7 day Bali itinerary, let us know in the comment section below.
More Information for Your Trip to Bali
BALI: Learn more about Bali in our guide to the best things to do in Bali, how to visit the Aling-Aling Waterfalls, what it is like to visit Bali on Nyepi Day, and how to do the Mount Batur Sunrise Hike.
BALI ITINERARY: If you are planning a quick visit to Bali, take a look at our 5 Day Bali Itinerary. If you have more time, learn how to spend 10 days in Bali, visiting the highlights and a few hidden gems.
MALAYSIA: Learn what is like to visit the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur.
SOUTHEAST ASIA: Learn how to plan an epic trip through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam in our 3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary.
OCEANIA: For all of our articles about New Zealand and Australia, take a look at our New Zealand Travel Guide and Australia Travel Guide.
Read all of our articles about Indonesia in our Indonesia Travel Guide.
All rights reserved © Earth Trekkers. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, etc.), in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited.
