Bali Itinerary Guide: 3, 5, 7 & 10 Days

I still remember the first sunrise I chased across the island — salty air, quiet roads, and that moment when everything felt possible. I write this as someone who plans trips with both heart and checklist, so you get joy without the chaos.

In this friendly, practical opening I’ll map how to use your time well. I focus on smart bases like Seminyak, Ubud, and Uluwatu and show when adding nearby isles makes sense.

I’ll share what I pack—eSIM, action camera, reef-safe sunscreen—and when I book a private driver versus taking rideshares. My goal is to save you transit minutes so more of each day feels like a true vacation.

If you want a fast route to pick a plan, check my quick route matrix and local tips at eco travel planning. By the end of this piece, you’ll have a clear, calm plan that matches your vibe and hotel style.

I start each route by asking one question: where will I waste the least time on transit? From the airport I map a clear flow so travel becomes part of the trip, not a drain on it.

My logic is simple: set a beach base first, slide inland for culture, then finish on cliffs or an island. That way I avoid zig-zagging and reclaim precious day hours.

• I keep two headline experiences per day plus a buffer so slow coffees and surprise temples fit in.
• I cluster by area: Seminyak/Canggu for cafes and beaches, Ubud for rice terraces and rituals, Uluwatu for sunset temples.
• I download Google Maps offline, install an eSIM before landing, and carry a 10,000–20,000 mAh power bank so routing never dies.
• For three-stop days I book a private driver through my hotel; for quick hops I use Grab.
• I reserve one free afternoon every two days for naps, spa time, or pool lounging—flexibility beats burnout.

When you plan this way the itinerary feels intentional. You move by vibe, not stress, and you leave room for the unexpected moments that make a trip unforgettable.

For a practical step-by-step on booking drivers and structuring routes, I also recommend this short read: plan a trip like a professional.

Timing matters more than routes when I plan each day on the island. Choose the season first and let it shape your mornings, afternoons, and sunset plans. The dry season runs April through October and gives longer windows for ridge walks and clear beaches. The rainy season falls November through March but still offers sunny spells and fewer crowds.

In dry months I start early for sunrise ridge walks and rice terraces, then save beach hours for late afternoon and a sunset cocktail. In wet months I front-load outdoor plans into the morning and keep the midday flexible for cafes, spas, or temples if a shower hits.

• I always pack a light rain shell, a compact umbrella, and sandals with real tread for slippery waterfall paths.
• For sunrise missions I bring a headlamp, a dry bag for electronics, and a microfiber towel.
• Water levels rise after storms—check conditions and keep a safe distance at waterfalls.
• Telkomsel usually has reliable coverage; offline maps and ride apps keep my itinerary moving.
• Add 10–15 minutes of padding to each day in the rains; showers often pass fast and plans stay on track.

For practical planning tips and budget ideas, see this short read on affordable regional trips: affordable trip ideas.

How you move between sights shapes how much you actually see. I pick transport by the number of stops, group size, and how much walking I want later in the day.

For full-day trips with terraces, waterfalls, and temples I usually hire a private driver. I pre-share map pins and estimate minutes between stops so the day flows without surprises.

For families or groups, a private driver is often cheaper than multiple rides and keeps everyone comfortable. I confirm pickup time the night before for early starts.

I only ride scooters when I’m confident and carry my International Driving Permit. If my travel insurance does not cover scooters, I skip riding—full stop.

• Helmet fit tips: snug, level, and with the chin strap secure.
• Scooter kit: phone mount, compact first-aid, polarized sunglasses, lightweight gloves, and a reflective strap for dusk.
• I keep a hydration bottle and electrolyte tabs in my day bag; traffic can add time and I need to stay sharp.

Landing with my phone already online saves me precious minutes and lowers stress at the airport. A quick arrival routine keeps the rest of the trip smooth and lets me reach my hotel without a scramble.

I buy an Indonesia eSIM on Airalo before I fly so my phone works the moment I land. It saves time and I can message my driver on WhatsApp while I clear customs.

If you prefer a physical option, Telkomsel usually has the best coverage for Ubud, Sidemen, and parts of Nusa Penida. It’s inexpensive and reliable across most areas.

• I keep a SIM ejector in my wallet, a universal adapter, and a surge-safe multi-port USB charger to juice devices each day.
• I withdraw cash at airport ATMs or town machines, then carry small bills for warungs and markets; some places remain cash-first.
• WhatsApp is how drivers and guides communicate—save contacts and pin your hotel address before you leave the terminal.
• I keep a backup debit card in a separate pouch and download offline maps plus booking confirmations in case data drops.

Small prep pays off: my arrival pouch holds passport, eSIM QR, some cash, a pen for forms, and the hotel address. That way, a few minutes of setup translates into a calmer first day and a better way to start exploring.

For more practical tips and hub ideas, see my short post with extra travel tips: travel tips.

Where you stay shapes how each day feels, from sunrise coffee to evening cooldowns.

In Seminyak and Canggu I love waking up steps from beaches and the coffee scene. It’s my perfect place to shake off jet lag for a couple of days and start with a slow swim.

Ubud feels like the cultural heart. Jungle views, rice paddies, and quiet temples make it easy to find calm. If you want ritual and rest, choose a retreat like ubud with an on-site spa.

Uluwatu’s clifftop hotel choices bring glowing sunsets and strong breezes. Many properties have a dramatic pool and room views worth timing the golden hour for.

On Nusa Penida I expect raw coastline and fewer frills. I pick a stay close to my first morning stop to save travel time and catch early light.

• I pack a travel clothesline for swimsuits, packing cubes to sort outfits, and earplugs plus an eye mask for deep sleep.
• Boutique hotel gems often include breakfast with views; I plan slow mornings to savor the spread.
• I map walkable food options around each hotel so nights stay low effort, high payoff.

A clear, simple matrix helps me pair length of stay with the right hubs so I waste less time on the road. This snapshot shows which area to base in, typical travel minutes, must-book windows, and the gear I pack for each route.

• Short trip — 3 days: Base Ubud for a ridge walk and rice terraces, then Seminyak for beach and nightlife. DPS to Ubud ~60–90 minutes. Gear: daypack, sandals with grip.
• Mid trip — 5 days: Seminyak/Canggu → Ubud → Uluwatu for a temple sunset and Kecak fire dance. Pack lightweight layers for breezy cliff evenings.
• Extended trip — 7 days: Start south, spend core time in Ubud, finish in Uluwatu. Optional Nusa Penida boat day. Gear: dry bag, reef-safe sunscreen, action cam.
• Longer stay — 10+ days: Add Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, or an island overnight (Gili or Penida). Bring eSIM, power bank, compact first-aid kit.

I hire a driver for multi-stop days and use Grab for single hops inside the same area. Book Penida boats, Kecak seats, and sunset restaurants 24–72 hours ahead.

Build recovery slots—pool or spa every second day—to keep energy up. Morning ridge walks and late temples deliver the best views, while mid-days are perfect for food markets and rest.

Start your short trip by landing, dropping bags, and letting the town set the pace for the next few days. From DPS to Ubud is roughly 1–1.5 hours, so I aim to arrive relaxed and unpacked before evening.

I head straight to my hotel, check in, and book an evening spa or a traditional dance at Ubud Palace. I keep a temple-ready outfit and a light sarong in my daypack so I can join a ceremony without scrambling.

First light is for the Campuhan ridge walk. Then I visit Tegalalang rice terraces and Tegenungan waterfall. Pack a packable towel and water shoes for slippery rocks.

Midday I grab lunch, then transfer to Seminyak—about 80 minutes depending on traffic—and check into a beachside hotel near the pool.

I split the day between Double Six Beach, brunch, and boutique browsing. A late spa (Bodyworks is my pick) resets me before sunset on the sand and a safe ride to nightlife like La Favela.

• Three-day kit: dry bag, reef-safe sunscreen, phone lanyard.
• Souvenirs: buy small crafts in Ubud; save larger purchases for the final day.

A well-timed sunset at a clifftop temple can turn five busy days into a memory that lasts.

I prefer to start with relaxed beach mornings in Seminyak or Canggu, move inland to Ubud for culture and terraces, then finish on the cliffs of Uluwatu for the Kecak fire dance at sunset.

Typical flow:

• Day 1–2: beach time, cafes, and easy walks to recover from travel.
• Day 3–4: Ubud markets, a spa or cooking class, active mornings and mellow afternoons.
• Day 5: Uluwatu for cliff beaches and the temple Kecak performance—arrive early for better seats.

Bring a light jacket for breezy cliff nights and a small tripod or grippy phone mount for low-light dance photos. For a three-stop day (beach + temple + Jimbaran dinner) I book a private driver to keep the pace comfortable.

I time check-in so I can freshen up before the performance and reserve dinner near the temple or a seafood feast at Jimbaran. Leave one afternoon blank for pool time and unplanned discoveries—five days fly by, and a small buffer improves the views and the whole trip feel.

For a week of varied sunrises and sunsets, I build a route that lets each morning feel new and every evening slow down.

I begin in South Bali, soaking up Double Six Beach and easy pool time. Evenings are low-key: a sunset at Potato Head or La Brisa and casual food near the hotel.

Midweek I move inland to Ubud. I rise early for the Campuhan ridge walk, then visit Tegalalang rice terraces. Afternoons are perfect for a cooking class or a spa session to recharge.

Next I head south to Uluwatu for clifftop beaches, Uluwatu Temple, and the Kecak fire dance. Jimbaran seafood on the sand makes for a relaxed final night.

• Optional: a fast boat trip to nusa penida for Kelingking beach and Broken Beach—spectacular if the sea is calm.
• Boat gear: motion bands, seasickness tablets, and a dry bag for phones.
• Wear sturdy sandals with grip; pack an action camera, spare SD card, and reef-safe sunscreen.
• I confirm pickup minutes with my driver the night before and carry cash for island fees and snacks.

For a full ten-day stretch I balance mellow mornings with energetic island hops so each week feels varied, not rushed.

I begin with two restorative days in Nusa Dua. A Balinese massage resets jet lag, Pandawa paddleboarding gives gentle exercise, and a Sky Bar cocktail is my first sunset reward.

Next I move to Uluwatu for Thomas and Bingin beaches and cliffside views. I time the temple performance late afternoon and savor the sunset over the ocean.

Mid-trip I spend three days in Ubud. Markets, Goa Gajah, and a Tirta Empul purification make for deep cultural time. I bring a modest outfit and an open mind for ceremonies.

• Day 1–2: Nusa Dua — balinese massage, paddleboarding, Sky Bar cocktails.
• Day 3–4: Uluwatu — Thomas & Bingin beaches, clifftop sunset and temple dance.
• Day 5–7: Ubud — markets, Goa Gajah, Tirta Empul purification and slow mornings.
• Day 8–9: Island add-on — choose Gili Trawangan for snorkeling and nightlife or two days on Nusa Penida for raw coastlines.

I always carry spa-ready gear: a lightweight change of clothes for post-massage dinners, reef-safe sunscreen, a foldable snorkel mask, and a dry bag for island boat runs.

Pack a light jacket or scarf for breezy temple and cliff nights. I add extra minutes to ritual days for traffic and ceremonies. If I need to recharge, one pool day replaces an excursion and makes the next morning feel fresh.

I confirm boats 24 hours ahead and keep WhatsApp handy for captain updates. For a fuller sample route and timing tips check this short plan for an extended trip: extended trip sample.

If you crave a change of pace, an island hop or a mountain detour can reshape the whole trip.

For the gili islands I vet operators and check sea forecasts the day before. A reputable fast boat like Patagonia Xpress is a comfortable option when available.

I pack motion bands, ginger chews, and a dry bag. Open water can get choppy, so these small items make a big difference.

If I head back bali instead of the Gilis, I pick Lovina for calm waters and dolphins, Munduk for cool mountain air and waterfalls, or Sidemen for slow rice-valley vibes.

Sekumpul and Banyumala reward a dedicated north waterfall day; I hire a private driver and wear grippy shoes. I pack a light layer for cooler mountain time and plan a rest afternoon after any boat or long-transfer day.

• Gili Trawangan — lively nights; Gili Air — calmer swims and sunset swings.
• Rent a bike on the islands; they are car-free and easy to explore.
• Pre-book a trusted driver for port transfers to avoid timing stress.

My suitcase is a simple toolkit for hot mornings, sudden showers, and long walks. I pack so each day moves fast and nothing gets soggy when rain arrives.

• Breathable tops, quick-dry shorts, sundresses, and one nicer outfit for a special dinner.
• Light shawl or sarong to cover shoulders for a temple visit; I keep a spare in my day bag.

• Compact shell, travel umbrella, and pack cover for sudden water bursts.
• Grippy sandals, water shoes for waterfalls, and light sneakers for ridge walks.

For practical solo travel safety and planning, check my short solo-safe tips: solo-safe tips.

For every trip I pack with purpose, choosing gear that keeps my days moving and my photos sharp. I prioritize items that protect gear around water, extend battery life, and keep me comfortable on scooters and during hot afternoons.

I preload an eSIM, download offline maps, and carry a dual-port power bank so my day never gets cut short. A dry bag and microfiber towel live in my daypack for waterfalls, beaches, or an infinity pool afternoon.

An action camera with a floaty grip handles waterfalls and boat snaps. I use a phone lanyard for ridge walks and dock steps to avoid accidental drops.

Polarized sunglasses, lightweight gloves, and a buff protect eyes and skin from sun and dust. A small travel power strip with surge protection keeps cameras, watches, and phones topped up overnight.

• Fold-flat snorkel mask and compact fins for spontaneous reef stops.
• Headlamp and clip-on bag light for pre-dawn starts and late returns.
• Quick-dry hat, electrolyte packs, and a cooling towel for hot mid-day hours.
• Packing cubes, cable organizers, silica packets, spare SD card, and a waterproof phone pouch as backups.

Food sets the tempo for every day, from sunrise bowls to late-night seafood on the sand. I plan meals around morning energy and sunset views so each mealtime becomes part of the trip.

Morning smoothie bowls and specialty coffee fuel my beach mornings. I save a long brunch for a rest day and take a small snack between swims.

After a ridge walk I head to a nearby cafe or warung for a hearty plate and strong coffee. Markets and vegan spots make refueling easy and fresh.

Afternoons in Uluwatu drift toward Jimbaran for grilled seafood at sunset. I book dinner times 24 hours ahead and keep small cash for beach vendors and coconut stops.

• Snack essentials: nuts, dried fruit, and a protein bar for long transfer time.
• Hydration: coconut water hits the spot between activities.
• Hotel note: I always check if my hotel includes breakfast; a poolside start is a nice slow option.
• Sweet finish: gelato or a local dessert after sundown is a simple treat.

I build each travel day like a short story: a clear beginning, a strong middle, and a calm ending. That rhythm saves time and makes the best views feel earned.

I aim for sunrise at the rice terraces so photos pop and the paths are quiet. Then I use the morning for a campuhan ridge walk or a similar ridge walk nearby while my legs are fresh.

• I block late afternoons for a temple visit so the light and sunset lift the scene.
• I pad each transfer by 15 minutes to absorb traffic or a stop that looks worth it.
• Midday is my rest window—cafes, shade breaks, and hydration with electrolytes.
• Small gear I carry: hat, cooling towel, and a slim water bottle for long time in sun.

This way keeps minutes predictable and gives each half of the day one anchor experience. Flexibility—flip outdoor and indoor plans if rain comes—keeps the whole way smooth and more fun.

I pick a simple flow: south beaches, jungle mornings, and cliffs at sunset. Decide your length, set bases, and leave room for unplanned finds. This keeps the trip relaxed and easy to enjoy.

Quick checklist I follow:

– Choose route length and set bases: beach → jungle → cliffs; add an island only if timing feels generous.

– Lock must-books: a private driver for multi-stop days, Kecak seats, and any fast-boat transfers.

– Plan mornings for ridge walks or terraces and late afternoons for temples. Add a pool or spa mid-day.

Message your driver with map pins, pack your island-savvy kit (eSIM, power bank, dry bag, reef-safe sunscreen, grippy sandals), and save a rest pocket every couple of days. Tweak the bali itinerary to match your pace—make it yours.