Are you looking for places to visit in Bali? As a first time visitor, it might be good to know that Bali is actually quite a large island, so if you have limited time, it’s best to plan ahead and rent a scooter or hire a private driver to take you around.
To make things a bit easier, I’ve made this list with some of the most amazing places to visit in Bali 2019!
1. Mount Batur
If you’re looking for scenic views for sunrise, then Mount Batur is one of the best places to visit in Bali.
It’s the second-highest point on the island, and while the hike up is quite strenuous and start early, it’s well worth the effort to get this view!
Photo: Shutterstock
2. Ubud
Ubud is the cultural center of Bali and you will find many ancient temples here as well as art galleries and handicraft shops.
In recent years, Ubud has also become a hub for digital nomads and there is a wide selection of cafes with trendy drinks, coffee, and workspace.
Photo: Shutterstock
3. The Sidemen Valley
If you want to experience the genuine Bali away from the crowds, I recommend you to visit the Sidemen Valley. Many Balinese people are living in this area, which is located about 45 minutes east of Ubud.
It’s also a great base if you’re planning to conquer the summit of the volcano Gunung Agung.
Photo: Shutterstock
4. Tegallalang Rice Terraces
The Rice terraces of Tegallalang is one of the most popular places to visit in the Ubud area, and you can easily go here by scooter, private driver or on a guided tour.
I recommend that you get here early in the morning because it tends to get pretty crowded during the day.
5. Aling Aling
There are many beautiful waterfalls in Northern Bali, and Aling Aling is one of them. It’s located near Singaraja, and the easiest way to get here is by scooter.
It’s recommended to come here early in the morning to get the best light and enjoy the place without other tourists.
Photo: Shutterstock
6. Tanah Lot
Tanah Lot is one of the most popular places to visit in Bali, and it’s an important landmark and temple for the Balinese people. It’s a Hindu pilgrimage site which is located on top of a rock formation, and it can be accessed during low tide.
Photo: Shutterstock
7. Pura Ulun Danu Bratan
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan dates back to the 17th century and is known among tourists for its picturesque scenery.
It’s a Balinese water temple devoted to the lake and river goddess Dewi Danu. It almost looks like the temple is floating and it’s quite popular to rent a boat and paddle around the lake.
Photo: Shutterstock
8. Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan is one of the three Balinese islands, and it’s easily reached from Sanur. It’s a small island known for its laidback vibes, turquoise water, and beautiful beaches.
Photo: Shutterstock
9. Nusa Penida
The photos from Kelingking Beach have gone viral for some time now, and visitors continue to flock to Nusa Penida, which is another one of the Balinese islands.
You can easily access it by boat, and you can go to Nusa Penida on a day trip or stay overnight.
While Kelingking beach is definitely one of the most spectacular places to visit in Bali, Nusa Penida has more to offer than just one beach, and it’s nice to explore the island by scooter.
Photo: Shutterstock
10. Goa Gajah
Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant cave was built already in the 9th century, located about 6 kilometers from Ubud. It’s a historical place with impressive sculptures and ancient inscriptions.
Photo: Shutterstock
11. Tibumana
If you’re chasing waterfalls in Bali, Tibumana is one of the most beautiful ones, and a must-visit if you have a scooter or driver that can take you there.
Tibumana falls is located 35 minutes away by car from Ubud, so it’s quite easy to get there.
Photo: Shutterstock
12. Sanur Beach
Sanur Beach is one of the best beaches in Bali, and it has a relaxed vibe with clear waters and golden sand. Everything you need for a great vacation can be found here, including local restaurants and a wide selection of accommodation, ranging from budget to luxury.
Photo: Shutterstock
13. Canggu
Canggu is a haven for surfers, digital nomads and Bali expats in general. It’s full of trendy photogenic cafes and restaurants serving organic healthy food. It’s also famous for its black sand beach and the relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy yoga retreats and spa treatments.
Photo: Shutterstock
14. Bingin Beach
Bingin Beach is well worth a visit if you’re looking for a paradise beach with azure water and white-golden sand. It’s located in the southwestern part of the Bukit Peninsula recommended to use Google Maps to get here.
Photo: Shutterstock
15. Mount Agung
Also known as Gunung Agung, the mighty volcano that erupted recently. It’s the highest point of Bali and a spiritual center for the locals.
If you feel adventurous, it’s possible to go rock climbing and trekking in the area. However, it’s just as beautiful from a distance.
Photo: Shutterstock
16. Tirta Empul
If you’re looking for the best cultural places to visit in Bali, then you shouldn’t miss Tirta Empul, which in my opinion is a great place to get to know more about the Balinese culture and their beliefs.
Tirta Empul was built in the 10th century and is considered a holy place that is able to purify the devotees who come here. Tourists aren’t allowed to take part in the ritual bath but can watch from distance as well as get a closer look at ancient temple carvings.
You can also see a lot of statues dedicated to various deities.
Photo: Shutterstock
17. Pura Luhur Lempuyang
Pura Luhur Lempuyang, also nicknamed the gate to heaven. It’s actually one of the oldest temples in Bali, although most tourists come here for the epic Instagram photos where you stand in the middle of the gate.
My suggestion is to come here early in the morning if you want a photo because the lines can be up to 2-3 hours long. Also, afterward walk around and take in the history and culture of Pura Luhur Lempuyang.
Photo: Shutterstock
18. Git Git Waterfall
Git Git is another impressive waterfall in the northern part of Bali. You can easily visit this waterfall and Aling Aling the same day if you have a scooter or private driver.
Photo: Shutterstock
19. Tukad Cepung
Tukad Cepung is located about 1 hour east of Ubud and might be one of the most romantic places to visit in Bali. The waterfall is surrounded by a cave, and if you come here early in the morning, you’re likely to have the location all by yourself!
Photo: Shutterstock
20. Ubud Monkey Forest
The Monkey Forest in Ubud is one of the most popular places to visit in Bali, and most tourists who go to Ubud will make a visit here. The forest is full of cool temples and there are wild monkeys almost everywhere you look.
Be warned though, the monkeys in the Ubud Monkey Forest don’t joke around, they know who’s the boss, and a hint; it’s not you.
With that said, just follow the instructions: don’t bring any food or do anything aggressive, and you’ll be fine. There is almost always some tourist that gets bitten by monkeys or attacked because of things they have in their purse or other improper behaviors.
Photo: Smarta/Shutterstock
21. Hideout Bali
If you want to experience the ultimate jungle getaway but still live comfortably with access to Wi-Fi, then Hideout Bali is the place for you. We stayed in the bamboo house called Hideout Lightroom, but there are two other Bamboo houses that you can book via Airbnb as well.
The houses are located in beautiful natural settings, and it will feel like you are in the middle of nowhere but still have a comfortable bed and other necessities. It’s a wild experience that is perfect to share with a group of friends or as a couple.
Visa det här inlägget på Instagram
22. Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu is another beautiful Balinese temple, which is perched on top of a cliff next to the sea. It’s regarded as one of the spiritual pillars of Bali, and tourists coming here can see gateways, ancient sculptures as well as traditional dances and performances.
Photo: Mazur Travel / Shutterstock.com
23. Lovina
Did you know that there are dolphins swimming in the waters of northern Bali? Lovina is a great place to visit if you want to go out by the boats and see wild dolphins jumping around.
Photo: KeongDaGreat
24. Nusa Ceningan
Nusa Ceningan is the smallest island of the Balinese islands, and similarly to Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan, the vibe here is relaxed and fewer tourists find their way here, which means it’s less crowded and hectic than the major tourist towns in Bali.
Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan are connected via a bridge, which means you can easily explore both of them by scooter.
Photo: xquero
25. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
If you’ve already visited the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, or if you prefer to visit a less touristy place, the Jatiluwih is a good choice. It’s relatively off-the-beaten-path and most tourist still don’t have any idea that these rice terraces exist!
You can easily reach Jatiluwih Rice Terraces from Ubud in 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Photo: Mario Andi Supria/Shutterstock
My favorite places to visit in Bali
- Nature – Jatiluwih, Aling Aling, and Git Git
- Beaches – Sanur and Binging Beach
- Cultural – Tirta Empul and Uluwatu Temple
Photo: Viktoriya Krayn / Shutterstock.com
More Places to visit in Bali
- Pura Taman Ayun (temple)
- Campuhan Ridge Walk (Ubud)
- Karma Beach (trendy private beach)
- Amed Beach (One of the best places to visit in Bali for snorkeling)
- The Bali Swing (Popular photo spot)
- Sekumpul Waterfall
- Pura Besakih (temple)
Book Your Trip
So, now that you know about all these beautiful places to visit in Bali, it’s time to book your trip!
Bali is an incredible destination where you can spend weeks or even months. If you know some more beautiful places to visit in Bali, feel free to share in the comment section!