With all the things to do and see, planning the perfect Ubud itinerary can be quite overwhelming. Follow my detailed 3 days Ubud itinerary to discover the best things to do in Ubud – from temples to waterfalls to rice fields and more!
If you are planning a trip to Bali, you’re definitely going to want to spend some time in Ubud! Home to lush jungles dotted with waterfalls, centuries-old temples, bustling markets, and scenic rice fields, it’s not hard to see why Ubud is such a popular go-to spot!
Located in the mountainous regions of central Bali, Ubud is the island’s cultural hub. Despite being one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island, Ubud has retained its charm and is just the place to get away from the party crowds of Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.
In this 3 days Ubud Itinerary, I’ve narrowed down the top things to do in Ubud. I’ve also included top tips to help you navigate this gorgeous town, when to visit, where to stay and much more. With that said, feel free to tailor this guide to suit your needs and preferences.
Ready to plan an epic Ubud itinerary? Read along to discover all of Ubud’s best bits and find out what to do in Ubud in 3 days!
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3 Days in Ubud Essentials
Before you visit Ubud, read my super detailed one week Bali itinerary. It includes all the must-see sights and is filled with useful tips to help you plan your visit. Also, read my guide on Ubud’s best restaurants to find the most delicious grub in town and this guide to Ubud’s best waterfalls!
Along with the tips above, here are a few more things you’ll need to guarantee an epic Ubud itinerary.
- Find the best hotels, villas, resorts, or backpackers in Ubud here. Or check out my super detailed guide on the best places to stay in Ubud.
- Grab a pocket WIFI or 4G SIM card for pick-up at the airport to ensure a seamless internet connection.
- Book a transfer from the airport to save time and get to your accommodation, stress-free.
- It’s always hot in Bali, so remember to include light, breathable clothes in your packing list. Make sure also to bring sunscreen, mosquito repellant, a travel adapter, and a small travel umbrella with you.
- Visiting all the gorgeous temples is one of the top things to do in Ubud. With that said, it’s important to be respectful. Most temples require wearing a sarong and sometimes even a sash. While it is possible to rent sarongs at most temples, it’s a good idea to have one handy with you. Here’s a great one.
- If you don’t feel like bothering with all the nitty-gritty logistics, this tour is just the answer. It includes all the highlights, and you won’t have to plan a thing!
How to get to Ubud from Denpasar International Airport
Ngurah Rai International Airport, also called Denpasar Airport, is the main gateway to Bali, and has taxis and buses ready to transport you to all corners of the island.
Ubud is located 38km north of the airport, and it takes 1-2 hours (depending on the traffic) to reach the center of town. To get to Ubud, you could take a taxi, connecting bus, or private transfer. With that said, the easiest and fastest way to get to Ubud from Denpasar airport is with a private transfer. If you haven’t booked one directly through your hotel, book a discounted transfer here.
Travel Tips: There is no direct bus to Ubud, which means you’ll need to take two different buses to reach the town. Also, if you opt to take a taxi, make sure to book one via the official taxi counter to avoid being ripped off.
How to get around during your Ubud Itinerary
While it’s easy to explore the center of town on foot, you’ll need transport further afield to access all the beautiful places in Ubud. Here are the best ways to get around.
SCOOTER: The easiest way to get around Ubud is by scooter. You can rent a scooter for next to nothing a day, and it’s a fun way to explore Bali’s interior at your leisure. With that said, though, I only recommend this option is you are accustomed to driving a moped and have an international driver’s license to do so.
PRIVATE DRIVER: If you’re not comfortable on a scooter, booking a private charter is your best bet. The great part about having a driver is that you won’t need to worry about navigating Bali’s chaotic streets or figuring out all the nitty-gritty logistics. Instead, you can sit back and enjoy the scenery while still having the luxury of planning your itinerary. Packages usually cover 10 hours, so you could easily do as much (or as little) as you like!
SHUTTLE BUS: The Kura Kura tourist shuttle bus is great budget-friendly if you want to see a bit more of Bali. There are eight routes, and it’s easy to book 1,2, or 3 day passes. Just keep in mind that traveling times are likely to be much longer. Find out more about the routes/ schedules here.
TAXI: Taxis can be pricey in Ubud. Moreover, Bali’s drivers are notorious for ripping tourists off. If you must take a taxi, go with Blue Bird. They are the most reputable taxi service on the island. While GoJek and Grab are popular ride-sharing services in Bali, it is usually a bit harder to book a ride with either of them in Ubud.
ALSO READ: The Perfect 2 Week Indonesia Itinerary for First Timers.
When to Visit Ubud for 3 days or more
Like elsewhere in Bali, Ubud has a hot tropical climate, and it is often quite humid. Since Ubud is in a mountainous region, the town is blessed with slightly cooler temperatures. With that said, expect average temperatures in the upper twenties to mid-thirties throughout the year.
The best time to visit Ubud is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The warmest month in Ubud is October, and the coolest month is July. July to August is the peak season and it can get crowded quickly. Luckily, there’s lots to see and do in Ubud so it’s quite easy to get away from the crowds.
The rainy season starts in October and runs through to April, with December, January, and February seeing the most rainfall. Since frequent downpours aren’t uncommon, it’s best to avoid planning an Ubud trip during this time.
Ubud Accommodation: Best Places to Stay
Whether you have 3 days in Ubud or many, the town has stacks of accommodation options to match all kinds of budgets. If you plan on getting around on foot, it’s best to stay somewhere central close to the markets, shops, restaurants, and bars. Of course, for those looking to unwind in idyllic settings, there are tons of secluded places to stay at, too. Here are my top recommendations on where to stay during your Ubud 3 day itinerary.
Luxury
For the ultimate luxury experience, you don’t need to look much further than Maya Ubud Resort & Spa. Located only 30 minutes’ drive from central Ubud, this 5-star resort is tucked away from Ubud’s chaotic streets, yet close enough to all the action.
Perched atop a hillside, overlooking a lush river valley, the Maya arguably has one of the most beautiful settings imaginable! The resort boasts gorgeous Balinese-styled villas, a luxurious spa, a fitness center, and two shimmering pools in addition to the picture-perfect scenery. Make sure to order the delectable floating breakfast and enjoy a flower bath during your stay! Check rates or read reviews here.
Affordable Luxury
If you’re looking for a posh stay at surprisingly affordable rates, Adiwana Unagi Suites Hotel ticks all the boxes of the perfect base.
Featuring elegant, spacious rooms overlooking the lush jungle and neatly-kept gardens, Adiwana Hotel is a tranquil oasis located less than 2km from central Ubud. There’s also a swimming pool, spa, yoga studio, fitness center, and onsite golf course to while away the time. Check availability & rates here.
Mid-Range
Located less than 1km from the Ubud Traditional Art Market, Kano Sari Resort Villa is the perfect base for mid-range travelers looking for a luxe stay without the hefty price tag.
With friendly staff, top-quality facilities, and six beautifully modern Balinese-style rooms, Kano Villa offers a peaceful stay in a beautiful setting. There’s also a lovely outdoor pool with a bar, a souvenir shop, and many restaurants nearby! See rates or read reviews here.
Budget
Located just a short stroll from Ubud’s lively streets, Desak Putu Putera is the ideal choice for budget travelers looking for something more than a hostel.
The rooms feature simple Balinese finishes and are spacious and clean. The lovely garden featuring a glimmering pool is the perfect spot to unwind after a day out exploring all of Ubud’s highlights. Do try the banana pancakes for breakfast! They are delicious! See availability and rates here.
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The Perfect 3 Days Ubud Itinerary – Quick Overview
Ubud packs the perfect mix of culture, architecture, adrenaline-pumping activities, natural scenery, and delicious food. It’s also home to some of Indonesia’s most fascinating landmarks! While I recommend the bare minimum of 3 days in Ubud, you should definitely stay longer if you can! Here’s a quick look at what’s covered in this Ubud itinerary.
Day 1 in Ubud: Wander along the Campuhan Ridge Walk, then explore Ubud’s colorful streets and temples by popping in at Ubud Palace, Ubud Water Temple, Ubud Art Market, and the Monkey Forest.
Ubud Day 2: Catch the sunrise atop Mount Batur, then head out to the Floating Water Temple and end the day relaxing at a Spa.
Day 3 in Ubud: Visit the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces and Puri Tirta Empul Temple, then cool off at Tegenungan Waterfall, and finally join a fun Balinese Cooking Class.
Ubud Itinerary Day 1: Explore Ubud Center
Kick start your 3 days Ubud itinerary by exploring all the colorful streets of Ubud center. Enjoy a gentle walk about, pop by temples, rice fields, bustling markets, and even a forest full of cheeky monkeys!
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes because you’ve got much ground to cover today!
Campuhan Ridge Walk
The first stop on your Ubud itinerary is the lovely Campuhan Ridge Walk. Don’t worry, it’s a very mellow hike and only takes about 1 hour to complete. What really makes this trail so special is that it’s a great introduction to Ubud’s ridiculously beautiful scenery. Along the way, you’ll have scenic views of lush hills, sweeping rice fields, and swaying palms in the distance. Can you imagine a more idyllic way to start your day?
Oh, and travel tip – If time permits, come back at the day’s close for one of the best sunsets in Bali!
Visit the Ubud Palace
Next up on your Ubud 3 days itinerary, head over to the Ubud Palace. As one of the most iconic sights in town, the Ubud Palace (or Puri Saren Agung) is a must-see in Ubud.
Located a short stroll from the Ubud Art Market, it is a great place to get a quick glimpse into the royal family’s former daily life and Balinese culture. It’s also the perfect locale to snap some colorful pictures of the intricate architecture and lovely courtyards. Only a small portion of the palace is open to the public, so it does get crowded quickly. Make sure to visit early before the crowds set in.
Alternatively, come in the evening to enjoy the traditional dance performances held here. Tickets for the show cost IDR 100,000 and can be bought at the entrance. The show starts at 7:30 pm and lasts 1.5 hours.
Explore the Water Palace
A short stroll from Ubud Palace, you’ll find Saraswati Temple, also known as the Water Palace. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Ubud, and for very good reason.
Boasting beautifully intricate architecture and deep-rooted history, Saraswati is an important religious site in Bali revered for its beautiful setting. Besides being dedicated to the Hindu goddess of knowledge and arts, perhaps the most striking feature of this temple is the tranquil pond filled with hundreds of blooming lotus flowers.
After strolling the grounds, don’t miss grabbing a bite or enjoying a smoothie at the Lotus Cafe, right in front of the temple.
Shop till you drop at Ubud Market
No visit to Ubud would be complete without browsing the Ubud Market. Running along Jalan Raya, just across from the Water Palace, the market is the perfect place to pick up a few bargains, practice your haggling skills and enjoy a gentle walkabout.
There are tons of cute shops, stalls, and vendors to peruse. Moreover, you can find just about anything from colorful handicrafts and bags, to artworks, clothes and Bali souvenirs here!
Wander through the Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Visiting the Monkey Forest Sanctuary is one of the best things to do in Ubud. Set in a lush jungle full of towering trees, moss-covered statues, and three Hindi temples, it is a great place to quickly immerse yourself in nature right in the heart of Ubud.
Besides the incredible setting, there is yet another reason to visit here. And that is to see troops of cheeky macaques monkeys up-close! Visiting the Monkey Forest is a fun trip for the whole family and definitely deserves a spot on you list of things to do in Bali with kids. Just make sure to read the safety guidelines posted at the entrance. It’s also a good idea to bring absolutely nothing with you when you visit here as the monkeys are notorious for snatching visitors’ belongings!
If you’re not joining a day tour, remember to bring IDR 80,000 with for the entrance fee.
Ubud Itinerary Day 2: Hiking and Temples
On day 2 of your 3 day Ubud itinerary, get up early to catch the best sunrise in Ubud! Afterward, explore the floating temple and finally treat yourself to a pamper session at a posh spa!
Do the Mount Batur Sunrise Trek
If there is one thing that should be on any Bali bucket list, it’s a hike up Mount Batur! While you’ll need to wake up ridiculously early to do this hike (think 1-2 am), it will arguably be one of the highlights on your 3 days Ubud itinerary!
Mount Batur is an active volcano with a large crater at the top and located about an hour’s drive from Ubud. The area is blessed with stunning natural scenery, amazing views, and is, of course, the best sunrise viewing spot in all of Ubud!
Before you attempt this hike though, you should know that it’s quite a challenging trek, and it takes about 2 hours to reach the summit. With that said, though, once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with picture-perfect views no matter which way you turn! The best part? You’ll get to watch the epic sunrise as you enjoy a delicious breakfast in an insanely stunning setting! There are lots of tour options available, but this Mount Batur trekking experience rocks!
Just a heads-up: I strongly advise only attempting this hike if you are confident in your hiking abilities and fit enough to do so. Also, wear sturdy footwear or even better hiking boots as the trail is rocky and slippery!
Explore Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Next up on your Ubud itinerary is one of Bali’s most iconic temples — Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, often also called Bedugul Temple.
With majestic mountains creating an epic backdrop and a glimmering lake, Bedugul Temple has one of the most beautiful settings you’ll ever see. Besides getting lost in the lush greenery, there are also several courtyards packed to the brim with antique statues and shrines. But even on top of that, the star attraction here is undoubtedly the 17th-century temple built right on Beratan lake’s edge. If you happen to visit during high tide, you’ll get to see the temple “floating” on the water!
The temple entrance fee is IDR 50,000, and it takes approximately 1h30 to get there. It’s easy to get there with a transfer or on a private guided tour.
Relax at a Spa
After a day out exploring all of Ubud’s attractions, it’s time to unwind with a lavish pamper session. And the best way to do just that is with a relaxing spa treatment! The best part? Ubud is jam-packed with gorgeous spas where it’s easy to get anything from a traditional full-body Balinese massage, facial, body treatment, and a manicure or pedicure.
For the ultimate relaxation experience, book a spa treatment at the uber-luxe Maya Resort. Some of their best selling packages include a chocolate body mask, Balinese massage and a riverside massage with a gorgeous view!
If you’re looking for a few more options, consider one of these best Ubud spas:
- Forest Spa: Rejuvenate your body, mind, and soul amidst lush jungle. Afterward, snap a selfie in the hotel’s impressive jungle swing! Read reviews here.
- Chapung Wellness Spa offers a full range of treatments amid the most tranquil natural surroundings imaginable. Afterward, head to the poolside bar to catch an epic sunset and cool off in the gorgeous infinity pool. Book a pampering session here.
- For something a bit more traditional, book a massage at the charming Ubud Traditional Spa.
Ubud Itinerary Day 3: Rice Terraces, Waterfalls, and Relaxation
The final day of your Ubud itinerary is all about nature and relaxation! Wander through Ubud’s dreamy rice terraces, drop by Ubud’s best waterfalls, visit the “holy water temple”, and finally end the day with a fun cooking class!
Tegalalang Rice Terrace
On your last day in Ubud, head over to one of the most beautiful places in Ubud – the Tegalalang Rice Terrace. Make sure to get an early start to beat the heat and the crowds!
Tagalalang is a popular spot among Instagrammers, sunrise chasers, and nature lovers. And for very good reason. It’s an extremely beautiful setting home to cascading rice fields, swaying palm trees, and lush jungle. Besides all the awesome photos to take, it’s also a great place to take a stroll. Afterward, be sure to grab a bite or freshly cracked coconut at one of the cute cafes overlooking the valley.
Just a head’s up, you’ll need to pay IDR 20,000 to enjoy this little slice of paradise. As already mentioned, come first thing because there are always a lot of people here! Oh and, if your schedule is flexible, the Bali swing is a cool add-on to do here too.
Visit the Pura Tirta Empul Temple
Not too far from the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, you’ll find Pura Tirta Empul. Often also called the “Holy Spring Water Temple,” Tirta Empul is a sprawling complex housing several soothing pools revered for its holy waters and intricately sculpted spouting fountains. It’s a huge must-do in Ubud, so make sure not to miss it during your 3 day itinerary!
Thousands of pilgrims and devotees come from near and far every year to do spiritual cleansing in the holy waters found here. While it is possible to join a cleansing ceremony, make sure to check the procedure with your guide first. Oh, and remember to bring a spare set of clothes and a towel! Like elsewhere in Ubud, you’ll need to wear a sarong to enter the grounds. If you forgot to bring one along, you can rent one at the temple’s entrance.
The admission fee for Pura Tirta Empul Temple is IDR 15,000, and it is open from 8 am to 6 pm.
Tegenungan Waterfall
You cannot visit Ubud without checking out at least one of its gorgeous waterfalls. And, Tegenungan is hands-down a must-see!
The waterfall is 15m tall, and it’s a great place to take a refreshing dip in the cool waters, take some incredible photos, unwind, or simply take in all the beautiful greenery. Don’t forget your camera, hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses!
The entrance fee for Tegenungan is IDR 20,000, and it’s best to visit here as early as possible to enjoy the falls sans the crowds. If you prefer to see the falls with a guide, here’s a fun full-day tour that includes a few other must-see spots in Ubud.
Travel Tip: For those looking for something a bit more off-the-beaten-path, this full-day hidden waterfalls tour is just the answer!
There are stacks of other incredible waterfalls in Ubud, so if your itinerary is flexible, here are a few other epic falls to check out.
- Air Terjun Tibumana
- Goa Rang Reng Waterfall
- Manuaba Waterfall
- Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
- Pengempu Waterfall
- Sumampan Waterfall
- Leke Leke Waterfall
Ubud Cooking Class
If you love cooking or simply keen on learning a new skill, joining a cooking class is the perfect way to end your 3 days Ubud itinerary!
Besides creating and sampling nine signature Balinese dishes, you’ll learn quite a bit about the history of each dish, and get to choose your ingredients at the local market! The class lasts about 5 hours, and it is loads of fun!
Travel tip: Want to take your culinary skills (and Instagram) to the next level? Check out this authentic cooking class held at one of Ubud’s top-notch eateries!
Need more options for your Ubud itinerary?
If you still have some free time during your 3 days in Ubud, here are a few more options to add to your list of Ubud things to do:
- Explore the Elephant Cave: Goa Gajah is a beautiful little temple revered for its unique stone carvings and cave paintings located just on Ubud’s outskirts. Make sure to snap a selfie with the elephant carved into the cave’s rock face at the entrance, which is believed to date back to the 11th century! Here’s a great tour that includes a few other hotspots like Hidden Canyon, Tegenungan Waterfall, and more!
- Bali Swing: The Bali swing is one of the most instagrammable places in Ubud! It’s always crowded, so make sure to book a ticket well in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Museum Puri Lukisan: A lovely little museum housing traditional Balinese artworks, beautiful woodcarvings, and several exhibition rooms to browse. Admission is IDR 50,000, and the museum is open from 9 am – 6 pm. Grab a ticket here to skip the lines.
- Take a yoga class: Yoga is quite a popular thing to do in Ubud. There are lots of retreats to choose from, ranging in length and difficulty level. This one, in particular, is quite a hotspot.
- Neka Art Museum: Neka Museum is a popular spot among art enthusiasts. The museum houses various modern and ancient pieces, including paintings, jewelry, metalwork, and textiles.
- Snack your way through Gianyar Night Market: If you love a good night market, then don’t miss this one! Located on Ubud’s outskirts, Gianyar Night Market is a great place to browse, fill your belly with delicious street food, and shop for quirky Bali souvenirs.
3 Days Ubud Itinerary Conclusion
As you can see, there are many amazing places to visit and things to do in Ubud! I hope this Ubud itinerary will come in handy when planning your trip to this beautiful part of Bali!
That wraps up this Ubud 3 day itinerary! Have you visited Ubud yet? Feel free to share your top tips, best things to do, places to stay, and everything in between below!
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