With a perfect balance of nature, spirituality, and art, Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali. It’s location sits almost in the centre of Bali giving you easy access to some of Bali’s most iconic attractions.
This is the ultimate Ubud Bucket List to dive headfirst into Ubud’s treasure chest of destinations – whether you’re just visiting Ubud for a day, or staying in Ubud for the entirety of your trip.
From exploring ancient Bali temples, to hiking vast rice terraces, to trying new experiences, here are some of the best things to do in Ubud in 2025 to make the most out of your Bali holiday. Many of these can be visited during my Ubud Day Tour.
Map of things to do in Ubud
1. Discover Ubud’s Rice Terraces
Exploring some of Bali’s rice terraces is a must regardless of which part of the island you’re staying in. In fact, some of the best rice terraces in Bali are located in and around Ubud.
The most famous rice terraces in Ubud, and possibly the most iconic in all of Bali, is the Tegallalang Rice Terraces. For anyone planning their list of things to do in Ubud, visiting Tegallalang should be at the top of your list.
Just a short distance away from Tegallalang Rice Terraces is Ceking Rice Terrace, another one of Bali’s iconic rice terraces and equally as stunning. Ceking is known to be a hot spot for Bali Swings.
Location: Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Gianyar
Entrance fee: IDR 50k
Hours: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Daily
2. Visit the Royal Palace
The Ubud Royal Palace, or Puri Saren Agung, is the centerpiece of Ubud’s heritage. Formerly the official residence of the Ubud Royal Family, it’s a historical landmark in Ubud and a must-visit on my list of things to do in Ubud.
This 19th century temple is just as spectacular and significant as the other Bali Temples, with architecture that showcases Balinese talent – intricately carved details, golden pavilions, and lush gardens. Ubud Royal Palace is free to enter with the exception of special events.
Location: Jl. Raya Ubud no.8, Ubud
Entrance fee: Free
Hours: 7:00am – 5:00pm , Daily
3. Experience the Gamelan
Here’s an opportunity to include some cultural art on your list of things to do in Ubud. Experiencing a Gamelan performance is diving straight into the heart of Balinese culture. Gamelan is a traditional form of music in Indonesia, primarily in Java and Bali.
I highly recommend checking out the Gamelan Semara Ratih performance. The Balinese orchestra is comprised of some of the most talented composers, musicians, choreographers, and dancers from Bali. These guys have been performing since 1988 and are known globally, so if there’s any Gamelan performance you must see, this is it.
Location: Jl Pura Dalem, Ubud
Tickets: IDR 100k
When: Every Saturday at 7:30pm
4. Get personal with Monkeys
Another popular item on the list of things to do in Ubud – the Ubud Monkey Forest. Also known as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, it’s a wildlife reserve thats home to more than 1000 long-tailed macaques.
The forest itself spans across 27 acres of land and also houses 3 ancient Balinese Hindu temples that age all the way back to the 14th century, making the Ubud Monkey Forest a deeply spiritual place for the Balinese people.
Location: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud
Entrance fee: IDR 80k Weekdays, 100k Weekends
Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00pm, Daily
6. Chase Waterfalls
Tibumana Waterfall is one of the closest waterfalls to Ubud and a popular stop on my Waterfalls Near Seminyak Tour. It’s quite easy to access after a 10-12 minute walk over some bamboo bridges along the riverside.
This is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in Bali so if you’re looking to score some epic photos for Instagram, then add Tibumana Waterfall to your things to do in Ubud.
Location: Jl. Setra Agung, Bangli
Entrance Fee: IDR 25k
Hours: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm, Daily
7. Witness the Legong Dance
Another cultural experience for you – the Ubud Palace Legong Dance – a visual and auditory feast. Along with the Kecak Dance, it’s one of Bali’s most enchanting traditional dances. The classical performance tells stories from ancient Hindu tales.
In Ubud, you can catch the Legong Dance performance at the Ubud Palace. This way you can check two items off of your list of things to do in Ubud in one night. It’s just 100k per person. Seats are quite limited so I suggest getting there early for the show.
Location: Jl. Raya Ubud No.8, Ubud
Legong Dance tickets: IDR 100k
Time: 7pm every night
8. Taste Local Coffee
Coffee lovers must include a visit to a coffee plantation on their list of things to do in Ubud. Bali’s coffee and tea plantations offer an enriching experience to those who seek to learn more about the island’s deep agricultural history.
Just a short drive north of Tegallalang Rice Terraces, Bali Pulina Plantation is one of the more popular coffee plantations in Bali. Here’s your chance to learn more about how coffee is made in Bali while tasting a wide variety of different coffee blends and flavours.
Location: Jl. Raya Pujung Kaja No.Br
Entrance fee: Free
Hours: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, Daily
9. Stroll at Campuhan
Not everything on your list of things to do in Ubud needs to be touristy attractions. Here’s your chance to enjoy a peaceful escape into Ubud’s nature.
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is a relatively short trail (about a 2km stretch) that takes you through lush landscapes that provide some of the best views in Ubud.
Go for a walk and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding hills, rice fields, and rivers. Or simply find a nice spot to grab a few pics for Instagram, or to send as a postcard (just kidding, I know it’s the 21st century).
Location: Campuhan Ridge Walk
Entrance fee: Free
Hours: 24 hours
10. Shop at Ubud Art Market
Pasar Seni Ubud, or Ubud Art Market, is among the best things to do in Ubud due to it being one of Bali’s most vibrant markets. It’s in the heart of Ubud (across the street from Ubud Royal Palace), and is a must-visit for anyone looking to dive right into Bali’s artistic side.
Here is where you can find a rich variety of Balinese handmade crafts, traditional artwork, clothing, jewelry, and some of Bali’s most iconic souvenirs. Even if you aren’t looking to buy anything, it’s a wonderful atmosphere to explore.
Hint: If you’re an art enthusiast, why not go on an Ubud Art Tour and visit the best museums and art districts in Ubud?
Location: Jl. Raya Ubud no.35, Ubud
Entrance fee: Free
Hours: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm, Daily
11. Explore Ubud’s nightlife
Nightlife in Ubud isn’t as vibrant as Seminyak or Kuta, but it’s still worth a night out. Ubud has seen exponential growth in nightlife after the pandemic ended, with numerous new bars and nightclubs opening to cater to the scene.
You have a decent selection of bars to choose from to have a cheeky drink and let loose for a night (or two, no one’s judging). From live music venues, chic lounges, and some hidden gems, you’ll find Ubud’s nightlife quite an experience.
For your after-hours things to do in Ubud here are a few of the best bars:
- The Blue Door – Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud
- CP Lounge – Jl. Monkey Forest No.16, Ubud
- Laughing Buddha Bar – Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud
12. Try a Yoga Class
Ubud has built a reputation for being a global hub for yoga enthusiasts. With a massive selection of yoga retreats, yoga classes, yoga studios, and even teacher training workshops, you might has well give it a shot while you’re in Ubud. Hey, when in Rome…right?
That being said, you won’t need to search too far to find somewhere that offers a Yoga class. I recommend you check out ClassPass to find the most suitable yoga class for you.
Here are some of the best yoga studios in Ubud to try a yoga class:
- Alchemy Yoga Center Ubud – Jl. Penestanan, Ubud
- Ubud Yoga Center – Jl. Raya Singakerta No.108, Ubud
- Ubud Bodyworks Centre – Jl. Hanoman No.25, Ubud
- Ubud Yoga House – Jl. Subak Sokwayah, Ubud
13. Discover Gunung Kawi
Take a trip back in time to Gunung Kawi, one of Bali’s most fascinating temples. And I really mean a trip back in time – this temple dates back to the 11th century!
Guning Kawi is an ancient sacred site that serves as both a spiritual sanctuary and a royal burial ground. The most iconic feature is the 10 rock-cut shrines that are carved directly into the cliffs. It’s quite a sight so why not add this to your things to do in Ubud?
Location: Tampaksiring, Gianyar
Entrance fee: IDR 50k
Hours: 8:00 am – 7:00 pm, Daily
14. Go ATV Riding
There’s nothing like riding an ATV quad bike through a muddy jungle. It’s an epic adventure that gives you a raw adrenaline rush while enjoying Bali’s natural beauty.
ATV tours in Ubud are normally guided tours that take you through ice terraces, thick jungles, and muddy paths though rural areas.
My ATV Quad Bike Adventure Tour includes 2 hours of ATV fun, you can choose to ride single or tandem. It also includes a private car and driver for the day, from pick-up until drop-off – so you can continue exploring Ubud after you conquer the trails.
15. Blanco Renaissance Museum
Art enthusiasts! Add this one to your list of things to do in Ubud. The Blanco Renaissance Museum is a destination that showcases the life and work of Antonio Blanco – known as the Dali of Bali.
Antonio Blanco moved to Bali in the 50s, and even fell in love and married a Balinese traditional dancer. He lived his final years in Ubud, with his former residence converted to the museum it is now.
Location: Jl. Raya Campuhan, Ubud
Entrance fee: IDR 100k
Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Daily
16. Dine on a Hot Air Balloon
This is one of the more pricey items on your things do in Ubud list – a romantic dinner on a hot air balloon over the rice fields. If you’re on holiday in Bali with the missus, why not take her on a unique experience?
Tanah Gajah Resort in Ubud offers a sunrise or sunset dinner experience for 2 on a hot air baloon overlooking Ubud. Keep in mind, the hot air balloon does not travel. It lifts up off the ground while tethered.
Tanah Gajah Resort location: Tanah Gajah Resort
Price: IDR 1,700k ++
Time: 6:30 am or 5:30 pm
17. Uncover the Elephant Cave
Goa Gajah – commonly known as the Elephant Cave – is another one of Bali’s famous temples. It’s quite close to downtown Ubud and one of the most accessible, so you wouldn’t need to stray too far out to find it.
The main feature of Goa Gajah is the cave’s entrance, a design that resembles a demonic face with a gaping mouth – an image straight out of the Tomb Raider or Temple Run games.
Location: Jl. Gn. Kawi, Tampaksiring
Entrance fee: IDR 75k
Hours: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, Daily
18. Learn to cook Balinese Food
Taking a Balinese Cooking Class in Ubud is like getting VIP access to Bali’s culinary secrets. Many cooking classes start with a market tour to buy your ingredients, then you’ll head back into the kitchen to learn how to whip up Indonesian classics like Nasi Goreng and Sate.
18. Get Purified at Tirta Empul
A short drive from Gunung Kawi (about 1.5km) is Tirta Empul – a sacred Hindu water temple and yet another one of Bali’s best temples. This temple is ancient and I mean really ancient – being built in 962 AD.
Many visitors add Tirta Empul to their things to do in Ubud to experience the purification ritual in the pools which involve reciting prayers under the fountains while moving from one to the other.
Location: Pura Tirta Empul
Entrance fee: IDR 50k
Hours: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, Daily
19. Get Pics on a Bali Swing
Ladies – this one’s for you! (Fellas, no one’s stopping you). Bali Swings have become a top priority item on everyone’s list of things to do in Ubud. And understandably so – since the make some of the most stunning Instagram photos.
You’ll find many of the popular Bali Swings around Tegallalang and Ceking Rice Terraces. Prep your dress (or rent one on location) and do it for the ‘gram to make your friends jealous. Read my Bali Swing guide on the best swings in Bali.
Loation: Jl. Dewi Saraswati No.7
Tickets: IDR 300k
Hours: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Daily
20. Visit a Night Market
To be honest, Ubud isn’t exactly the night market capital of Bali – that crown goes to Denpasar. But you should have no problem finding some of the best night markets in Bali, a handful of which are in Ubud.
If you’re craving for an authentic experience, head to the Gianyar Night Market to try a wide variety of Balinese and Indonesian street food like Babi Guling, Satay, Nasi Goreng, and Bakso. Alternatively, there’s the Sayan Night Market.
Keep in mind, if you have a sensitive stomach, I advise leaving this one out of your things to do in Ubud. Indonesia food is known to be spicy, and some of the street food vendors have a reputation for being not so sanitary.
Location: Pasar Senggol Gianyar
Entrance fee: Free
Hours: 3:00 pm – 10:00 pm, Daily
21. Discover the Silver village
Celuk Village (Desa Celuk) is just outside outside of Ubud – about a 30 minute journey to Sukawati. This is Bali’s hub for all things gold and silver related.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, an appreciator of intricate jewellery, or simply looking to somewhere to buy unique souvenirs, add this one to your things to do in Ubud. Celuk Village is populated with local artisans who are talented in crafting gold and silver jewellery.
Location: Desa Celuk, Gianyar
Entrance fee: Free
Hours: Varies, depending on merchants.
22. Witness the Kecak Fire Dance
Ubud is among the handful of places where you can witness a Kecak Dance Performance. There are couple of smaller temples where you can catch a show – Pura Dalem and Pura Puseh.
Alternatively, if you’re exploring outside of Ubud, the Uluwatu Day Tour ends the day with a Sunset Kecak Dance at Uluwatu Temple, a much better experience (in my opinion), due to its unique location on the cliffs of Uluwatu.
Location: Pura Dalem Ubud
Tickets: IDR 100k
Hours: Monday & Friday at 7:30 pm
23. Try White Water Rafting
White Water Rafting in the rapids of the Ayung River is a must for every thrill seeker. This is a great activity to add to your things to do in Ubud during any time of the year, but even better during the rainy season.
Go for the White Water Rafting Ubud Tour, which includes the rafting and a day tour. Alternatively, if you prefer a day full of adrenaline, book the ATV Quad Bike and White Water Rafting Tour, which gives you both experiences in one day plus a private car and driver to continue exploring.
24. Go Axe Throwing
The Melting Pot Saloon is one of the few places in Bali, other than Shooters Bali, where you can unleash your fury with some axe throwing. The modern day saloon offers a fun choice for a night out in Ubud.
Other than axe throwing, you can have a night filled with billiards, air hockey, ping pong, foosball, and several other games. They also have a large selection of beers and other alcoholic drinks to amp up your game skills.
Location: Jl. Raya Pengosekan, Ubud
Axe Throwing price: IDR 150k / 30min / person
Hours: 10:30 am – 2:00 am, Daily
25. IG Photos at Alas Harum
This is at the top of the list of things to do in Ubud for every Instagrammer. Alas Harum is nestled among lush rice terraces and offers a picturesque adventure for anyone looking to garb some beautiful photos to make their followers jealous.
You have a few activities to choose from here such as the Bali Swing, the Sky Bike, Swing Bed, a Zip Line, and several other photo-opportunity spots around the massive property. Expect to spend a good amount of cash here if you’re planning on doing all the activities.
Location: Jl. Raya Tegallalang
Entrance fee: IDR 50k (entrance only)
Hours: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm, Daily
26. Agung Rai Museum of Art
Another cultural gem on this list of things to do in Ubud is the Agung Rai Museum of Art, or simply ARMA. It’s a passion project founded by Agung Rai, a Balinese art advocate.
Aside from being simply an art gallery, it’s more of a cultural center that brings together Balinese art, history, and traditions. The location itself is quite impressive, exhibiting the elements of Bali.
Location: Jl. Raya Pengosekan, Ubud
Entrance fee: IDR 150k
Hours: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm, Daily
27. Dine among Angels
The Garden of Angels, or commonly known as Taman Dedari, is yet another picturesque destination on this list. It seems Instagrammers and influencers have quite a few things to do in Ubud!
Even if you aren’t keen on snapping pics, Taman Dedari is a wonderful restaurant to simply enjoy the beauty of the garden setting. The highlight – massive stone sculptures of celestial figures that tower over the garden.
Location: Kedewatan, Ubud
Entrance fee: Free
Hours: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm, Daily
28. House of Masks and Puppets
Wayang is a traditional form of puppet theater that dates back over a thousand years into Indonesian history. The intricate puppet show performances feature intricate shadow puppets that tell epic tales drawn from Hindu mythology and local folklore.
At Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets, you can discover more about Indonesia and Bali’s deep cultural heritage behind this entertainment form – with an impressive collection of almost 6,000 puppets, and 1,300 masks from Indonesia.
Location: Jl. Tegal Bingin, Sukawati
Entrance fee: Free
Hours: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm, Daily
29. Eat at the Best Restaurants
If your taste buds can choose their own vacation, there’s a high chance they’d book for Ubud. Exploring the food scene is among every foodie’s favorite things to do in Ubud, which is home to some of the best restaurants in Bali.
Some of the best restaurants in Ubud include:
- Wedja Bali – Jl. Ambarwati No.1, Mas, Ubud
- Donna Ubud – Jl. Monkey Forest No.67, Ubud
- Hujan Locale – Jl. Sri Wedari No.5, Ubud
30. Visit the Water Palace
This destination goes by several names – Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati, Ubud Water Palace, or simply Saraswati Temple. The temple is dedicated to Dewi Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of wisdom and knowledge.
Saraswati Temple is worth adding to your things to do in Ubud for its beautiful, intricate Balinese architecture, with a large lotus pond that stretches in front of the temple – another photo opportunity here!
Location: Jl. Kajeng, Ubud
Entrance fee: IDR 60k
Hours: 8:00 am – 7:00 pm, Daily
31. Appreciate Fine Art
This is the 4th art museum / gallery on this list of things to do in Ubud. As you can probably tell by now, Ubud truly is the Mecca for art in Bali.
The Komaneka Fine Art Gallery is a smaller, lesser known gallery that focuses on showcasing contemporary Indonesian art. Unlike the others on this list that focus on traditional art, this gallery features more modern paintings and sculptures.
Location: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud
Entrance fee: Free
Hours: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm, Daily
32. Meet Wildlife at Bali Zoo
Here’s one of the more family-friendly things to do in Ubud – The Bali Zoo. Unlike many zoos, it’s designed with conservation in mind and is home to over 500 animals.
Aside from simply exploring the zoo, Bali Zoo also offers few premium packages to get up close with the animals like breakfast with orangutans and elephant mud sessions.
Location: Jl. Raya Singapadu, Gianyar
Admission: IDR 350k
Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Daily
33. Visit the Wood Carving Village
Yet another art-focused addition to your list of things to do in Ubud, the hub for Balinese wood carving – Mas Village. This village has a rich tradition for carving intricate wooden sculptures and is home to some of the most talented artisans in Bali.
Location: Mas Village
Entrance fee: Free
Hours: Varies
34. Learn to make Balinese Offerings
You may have seen these intricate little offerings everywhere in Bali – temples, sidewalks, inside of cars, and even on ATMS. These are called Canang Sari and they’re play a vital role in the everyday life of Balinese Hindus.
Take a Canang Sari Workshop to learn how these beautiful offerings are made. You will also learn the philosophy behind them while diving deep into the culture. The workshop is guided by a Balinese priestess in her family compound.
35. Go Ziplining
Here’s an alternative to Alas Harum. The U Fun Field in Ubud offers pretty much the same activities such as Zipline, Bali Swing, and Sky Bike.
The Zipline adventure will set you back IDR 290k a person. They also offer add-ons such as photographer and dress rental at extra costs.
Location: Jl. Banjar Gadungan
Zipline price: IDR 290k
Hours: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm, Daily
36. Discover exotic birds
A bit further south of Ubud, this one’s among the more niche things to do in Ubud and an absolute must for bird enthusiasts. Bali Bird Park, just south of Ubud, is home to over 1,000 birds. The park is a colourful feast for the senses and a great choice for the kids.
Location: Bali Bird Park, Batubulan
Entrance fee: IDR 300k – 380k (Seasonal)
Hours: 9:00 am – 5:30 pm, Daily
Book an Ubud Day Tour
The best way to make the most out of Ubud – book yourself an Ubud Day Tour with a private car and driver. You can select from my recommended itineraries or simply ignore all of them and modify your day at your own pace.
You’ll be picked up from your hotel or villa (anywhere in Bali) by a friendly, English-speaking driver in an immaculate, air-conditioned SUV and taken to all the Ubud destinations of your choice. Fuel, taxes, and 10-hours from pick-up until drop-off are all included.
This is the most convenient way of tackling your list of things to do in Ubud without having to stress about navigating Ubud’s unpredictable traffic. You can exclude any destination and stay as long as you’d like at any destination – the day is entirely up to you.
Is Ubud worth visiting in 2025?
Unless you have a strong hatred for jungles, rice terraces, culture, art, and mouthwatering food, then absolutely! – Ubud is totally worth visiting in 2025 and spending some time in. It’s the perfect location to truly get a glimpse of what Bali is like – present and past.
How to get to Ubud?
If you’ll be making your way to Ubud after arriving at Bali Airport, I recommend reading my guide on getting from Bali Airport to Ubud. The traffic to and within Ubud can be notoriously congested at times so you’ll need a strategy to get there.
Exploring Ubud with a Scooter
Renting a scooter in Bali can be a great way to explore Ubud at your own pace, especially if you’re traveling alone. Scooters are perfect for navigating through Ubud’s traffic congestion. But keep in mind, some places in Ubud aren’t very beginner friendly.
Can I visit Ubud from other places?
If you’re staying in South Bali, such as Uluwatu, Nusa Dua, Canggu, Sanur, or Seminyak, Ubud is quite easy to access – about a 1 – 1.5 hour journey depending on your location. This makes it great for a 1 day escape for a day tour.
Are there any beaches in Ubud?
Due to Ubud’s location closer to the center of Bali, you won’t be able to enjoy any beaches. For the best beaches in Bali, you’ll need to find things to do in Seminyak, Canggu, or Uluwatu.
Is Ubud Safe to visit?
Ubud is considered safe for Bali visitors. It’s one of Bali’s most popular destinations and has blossomed into a safe environment for all types of travelers.
