If you’re planning a 7 days Bali itinerary, one of the very first things you might be wondering is if one week in Bali is really enough? Well, that’s a tricky question, especially since Bali is arguable one of the most beautiful places in Indonesia. Moreover, there is so much to see and do in Bali that one could easily spend months here and not see it all!
While 7 days in Bali might not be enough to exploreevery single inchof this gorgeous Indonesian island, it is ample time to get acquainted with all that the“Island of Gods”has to offer and unwind in the most beautiful paradise-like setting imaginable!
In this 7-day Bali itinerary, you’ll get to experience all of Bali’s best bits. From funky neighborhoods filled with bustling markets, boho hangouts, and sacred temples to gorgeous soft powdery beaches, lush jade-colored jungles, and dreamy islands a short boat ride away!
Ready to discover the best things to do in Bali? Read along to find out what not to miss during your 1 week in Bali!
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Bali Itinerary 7 Days Pre-Travel Tips
Before you head out on your 7 days Bali itinerary, here are a few things to know to plan the perfect trip.
- Bali has no shortage of fabulous accommodation to match any budget. Find thebest resorts, hotels, villas, or hostels here.
- Most nationalities can get a Visa on Arrival to enter Indonesia, but it’s a good idea to check which rules apply to your nationality well in advance. From February 2024, all international tourists visiting Bali need to pay a foreign tourist tax. This can be done online or at the airport upon arrival.
- Bali’s taxi drivers are notorious for ripping tourists off. The main gateway to Bali isDenpasar International Airport, also known as Ngurah Rai.Pre-book a discounted airport transfer from Ngurah Rai International Airportto your accommodation to avoid any scams.
- While your accommodation probably has wifi, it’s a good idea always to have connection when visiting Bali for 7 days.Pickup a 4G Sim card at the airport or grab this eSIM for Indonesia.
- The currency in Indonesia is theIndonesian rupiah (IDR). While there are many currency exchanges across the island, it’s best to exchange USD to IDR at the airport. If you really must change money, later on, it’s best to do so directly at a hotel or a bank.
- Need travel insurance for your trip? I use (and recommend) SafetyWing.
When to visit Bali
Since Bali lies only 8 degrees from the equator, it has a tropical climate. The island enjoys warm (and humid) weather year-round, with average temperatures of 26-28°C. With that said, Bali has two very distinct seasons – adry seasonand awet season.
The best time to visit Bali is duringthe dry season, which runsfrom Maythrough September. During these months, expect gorgeous sunny days with average temperatures in the upper twenties to mid-thirties. WhileJune to Augustis the busy season, these months offer excellent conditions for exploring the island. The weather is especially ideal for all kinds of water sports, like surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and more.
Therainy season runsfrom Octoberto mid-April. During these months, the waves are a bit rougher, the winds pick up near the coast, and it rains cats and dogs. December to February sees the most rain. While you’ll certainly be able to pick up some great hotel discounts, it’s not the best time for outdoor activities.If you must visit during the wet season, it’s best to come at the beginning of April.
How to get around during your 7 days Bali itinerary
Bali island covers approximately5,416 km2 and is the 15th largest island in Indonesia. While it’s relatively easy to explore most of Bali’s neighborhoods on foot, you’ll need transport to really sample all of Bali’s best bits. Here are the best ways to get around the island.
Rent a scooter:If you prefer to explore Bali at your leisure,renting a scooteris your best bet. Just a heads up though, driving in Bali can be a bit challenging. Speeding is not uncommon, and there’s a huge disregard for local traffic rules. Ionlyrecommend this option if you haveadequate experience driving in Asia. It’s also important to know that you’ll need aninternational driver’s permitto do so.
Hire a private driver:If you aren’t comfortable navigating Bali’s chaotic streets, considerbooking a private driver. You can hire a car with a driver for 10 hours a day. The best part? You’ll still have the luxury of planning your stops!
Take a taxi:BothGrabandGojekare popular ride-sharing taxi services in Bali. Personally, I prefer Grab because the app is so easy to use. Another perk of using ride-share taxis is that you’ll know upfront how much each trip will cost. If you must use a regular taxi,Blue Birdis the most reputable taxi service on the island.
Take a local bus:If you’re traveling on a shoestring, the local shuttle bus is a great way to get around Bali.The bus network follows eight routes, with stops at Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Sanur, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, South Nusa Dua, and Ubud. You can buy tickets from any Kura Kura ticket booth, onboard the bus, orgrab a one-way or return ticket here in advance. To find out more about the routes and timings, checkhere.
Bali 7 day Itinerary Quick Overview
Bali Day 1-2:Hit the colorful streets ofSeminyak! This funky neighborhood isfull of eclectic shops, hipster hangouts, and boho-chic clothing stores. Next head to the beach for some sun, sand, and surf. And, finally catch a Kecak dance atUluwatuand watch an epic sunset atTanah Lot.
Bali Day 3:Take a day trip to dreamyNusa Lembongan. Explore the underwater world, lounge on pristine beaches, and enjoy a slice of paradise.
Bali 4-5:Explore the lush jungles ofUbud, wander through rice fields, go white river rafting, and visit some of Bali’s most sacred temples.
Bali 6-7:Take a fast boat to the pristineGili Islandsto enjoy paradise at its very best!
The Ultimate 7 days Bali Itinerary: What to do in Bali
Great! Now that you know all the basics about visiting Bali for the first time let’s dive right into this epic 7 days in Bali itinerary!
Bali Itinerary Day 1-2: Explore Seminyak & Surroundings
The first two days of your 7 days Bali itinerary is all about settling in and getting a taste of what Bali is all about! Eating great food, chilling at sleek bars, lounging on awesome beaches, catching epic sunsets, and joining adrenaline-pumping activities are just a few of the awesome things to do in Bali’s hippest neighborhood, Seminyak. Here’s what to do on your first 2 days in Bali.
Join a Balinese Cooking Class
One of the best ways to really get to know Bali is through your stomach. While there are oodles of amazing places to eat in Seminyak, joining a cooking class is a fun way to learn a new skill. Moreover, you’ll get to enjoy the tastes and smells of Indonesia long after returning home!
This cookery schooloffers an incredible half-day class, which includes a fun market tour. The course is easy to follow and has loads of lip-smacking options available to recreate!
Drop by Pura Petitenget and Masceti Temple
Petitenget Temple and Masceti Temple are two age-old temples offering a quick introduction to Balinese culture. While you don’t necessarily need to be into culture or temple hopping, it’s a fun pitstop to make while in the area. Even if it is only to take a few photos of the centuries-old structures! Of course, if you happen to visit during one of the local religious ceremonies like the 210-day anniversaries celebrations, you’re in for a real treat!
Since these are places of worship, it’s a good idea to wear clothes that aren’t too revealing. If you’re not carrying a sarong with you, you’ll need to rent one at the entrance for a small fee.
Hit Double Six Beach
Double Six Beach is an awesome 500m-long stretch of golden sand offering stunning surf and stacks to keep you busy.
Located smack bang in the middle of Seminyak and Legian beaches, Double Six Beach is the perfect spot to go surfing, windsurfing, or kitesurfing, play in the water, get a massage right on the beach, or simply chill out at one of the trendy bars or restaurants.
Along Jalan Double Six, you’ll find loads of hipster hangouts. But, one place that definitely deserves a spot on your 7-day Bali itinerary is the ultra colorfulLa Plancha. Make sure to go early to grab a spot right on the beach on one of the colorful bean bags. Then order a boozy co*cktail and watch the sun melt away over the horizon!
Visit Tanah Lot
There’s no shortage of beautiful temples in Bali, and Tanah Lot is no exception!
Located a 30-minute drive from Seminyak, just on the outskirts of hipCanggu, Tanah Lot is one of the most spectacular temples in all of Bali and an iconic Indonesia landmark. The Hindi temple is a firm favorite among worshippers, sunset chasers, and Instagrammers, and it’s not hard to see why. Perched atop a rock that juts out of the sea, Tanah Lot has an incredible setting.
If you’re not self-driving or taking a Grab or GoJek taxi, it’s easy tojoin a sunset tourto get there. You’ll need to pay a small entrance fee (IDR 75,000) to enter the shrine, but it will be worth it even if it is just to experience the incredible views. To enter the temple, make sure to check the tide schedule as you’ll only be able to go inside during low tide.
Go Shopping
No 7 days Bali itinerary would be complete without working in a bit of retail therapy. Luckily Seminyak is a shoppers paradise chock-full with designer boutiques, international brand outlets, cute boho-chic stores, and bustling markets selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and everything in between!
For the best shopping in Seminyak and a chance to practice your haggling skills, head over toJalan LaksmanaandJalan Kunti.Just a head’s up, though, only attempt to bargain if there is no price tag on the item.
If you feel like venturing a bit further afield, you’ll find lots of cool shops alongJalan Pantai Kutaand the side streets jolting off from there in neighboringKuta.Seminyak’s hip neighbor, Canggu, also has stacks of cool shops. If you’re heading that way, be sure to check out these best cafes in Canggu too!
Chill at a Beach Club
Beach clubs are a real thing in Bali, and spending a day chilling next to a glimmering infinity pool, sipping boozy co*cktails, and listening to cool music is one of the best things to do in Bali.
While you’ll find several beach clubs in Seminyak,Potato Head Beach ClubandKu De Taare two of the hippest hangouts. Since both are super popular, it’s best to go early to grab a spot near the pool. Alternatively, phone a few days in advance to book a table.
If you’re planning to hit a couple of beach clubs around Seminyak, Canggu, and Uluwatu, it’s a good idea tobook a beach club shuttle transferinstead of self-driving. The shuttle has several routes with drop-offs at Bali’s most iconic clubs like OMNIA, One Eighty, Potato Head, Mrs. Sippy, Ku De Ta, Finns, and more!
Enjoy the views at Uluwatu Temple
Located roughly an hour’s drive from Seminyak, you’ll find one of Bali’s most majestic temples – Uluwatu or Pura Luhur Uluwatu.
And, if there is one temple that deserves a spot on your 7-day Bali itinerary, it is this one!Towering 70m above the Indian Ocean, this gorgeous clifftop temple dates back to the 10th century. Uluwatu is an important place of worship and one of Bali’s six key temples. Besides its religious significance, the temple is also revered as one of the best sunset viewing spots in Bali.
After you’ve explored all the courtyards housing ancient sculptures and relics, walk along the fortified walls. Then head over to the adjacent amphitheater where you can watch an exhilarating traditional Kecak dance performance while the sun sets over the horizon.
The Kecak fire dance starts at 6 pm daily and lasts about an hour. Make sure to come at least an hour or two before sunset to explore all the nooks and crannies of the temple. It’s also a good idea tobook your ticketsfor this sacred performance well in advance to avoid disappointment. If you want to explore the temple at your leisure, but still need a ride,book a transfer here.
Similar to other temples in Asia, remember to cover up when visiting Uluwatu and other places of worship in Bali. You can rent a sarong at the temple’s entrance if you forgot to bring one along. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye out for the sneaky macaques, which are believed to be the temple guardians. While they may seem cute, they are notorious for snatching anything from sunglasses and cameras; you name it.
Travel Tips: If you have a bit more time on your 7 days Bali itinerary, it’s worth spending a few days exploring Uluwatu. Besides being home to the Uluwatu Temple, the area offers some of the best surf in all of Bali. Of course, the pristine beaches lined with craggy high rising cliffs also offer picture-perfect views! Make sure to check out Dreamland Beach, Thomas Beach, Uluwatu Beach and Padang Padang Bay while in the area — all of them are absolutely stunning!Also read my guide of where to stay in Uluwatu for the very best accommodation options in the area.
Where to stay in Seminyak
Recommended Seminyak Tours
- Seminyak Beginners Surfing Lessons
- Bali Half Day Tour
Day 3 of Your 7 Days Bali Itinerary: Take a Day Trip to Nusa Lembongan
On day 3 of your Bali 7 day itinerary, it’s time to explore Indonesia’s rich underwater world and enjoy a slice of island paradise. The best place to do that? Nusa Lembongan.
With turquoise waters full of colorful marine life, Nusa Lembongan makes for the perfect day tour from Bali. The picturesque island is a30-minute fast boat ridefrom Sanur and is just the spot to get acquainted with Indonesia’s rich ecology and unspoiled nature. The best way to visit is on an organized day tour from Bali. That way, you’ll get to snorkel and see highlights like Devil’s Tears, Panorama View, Dream Beach, and the Mangrove Forest. Don’t forget your camera because you’re going to want to take loads of pictures!
Where to stay in Nusa Lembongan
If your 7-day Bali itinerary is flexible, it’s worth staying a bit longer to really get to know the island. Here are some of the best places to stay in Nusa Lembongan:
Recommended Nusa Lembongan Tours
If you still want to relish island life, add nearby Nusa Penida to your list of things to do in Bali. This gorgeous island offers a whole host of awesome things to do and boasts Instagram hotspots like Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach and Diamond Beach.
Day 4-5 of Your Bali Itinerary: Get Cultured in Ubud
Next up on your 7-day Bali itinerary is Ubud – the art hub of the island and a mecca for culture seekers. From picturesque waterfalls to lush jungles to holy temples to rice paddies, you name it — Ubud has it all!
Browse the Ubud Market
For a quick glimpse into Balinese culture, kick-start your Ubud travel itinerary with a visit to the Ubud Art Market. Running along Jalan Raya and the little streets jolting off from it, you’ll find tons of shops and vendors selling all kinds of interesting things. No matter which time of day you visit, expect to see the market teeming with shoppers.
During the early morning hours, the market serves as a traditional market, and is a great place to buy all types of fresh produce or simply have a gentle walkabout. At 9 am, it is transformed into an art market brimming with bargain hunters searching for souvenirs, Bali bags, artwork and handicrafts, and all kinds of unique knick-knacks.
It’s a great place to pick up a few bargains; just remember to haggle!
Do the Campuhan Ridge Walk
A short stroll from Cafe Lotus, one ofUbud’s best restaurants, is the Campuhan Ridge Walk — a 45-minute low-key hike offering sweeping views over lush hilltops and beautiful rice fields. It’s the ideal locale to get up close with nature and enjoy a mellow walkabout.
Finding the entrance is a bit tricky, so make sure you haveGoogle Mapsdownloaded on your phone. To get to Campuhan Ridge Walk, simply walk alongJalan Raya, past the Museum Puri Lukisa. Then turn right onJalan Bangkiang Sidemand left after 40m. You’ll see the trailhead a few minutes later.
Visit the Monkey Forest
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, orMandala Wisata Wenara Wana is a Hindi temple complex surrounded by lush jungle and towering ancient trees. The complex houses three temples and there are loads of little walkways and paths to traverse.
Besides its religious significance and absolutely stunning scenery, what really sets this temple apart from others is its cheeky inhabitants! Hundreds of macaque monkeys call this area home, and you’re likely to spot troops of them around every turn!
Just a word of warning, they might seem cute, but they are super sneaky and can be dangerous! Make sure to follow the safety guidelines and remember to keep a safe distance. It’s also a good idea to carryabsolutely nothingwith you when entering the sanctuary as the monkeys are known to be excellent snatchers. They’ll grab just about anything they can get their furry hands on — from your phone to your watch and everything in between! If you must take your belongings with you, its best to keep them hidden.
The entrance fee is IDR 80,000. Alternatively, considerthis tour, which includes a stop at a real hidden gem, Tukad Cepung Waterfall!
Get enlightened at Tirta Empul Temple
Next up on your 7 days Bali itinerary is Tirta Empul Temple. Pura Tirta Empul is a beautiful Hindi water temple famous for its holy water used for ritual bathing and cleansing ceremonies.
The temple is dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu God of water, and was founded more than 1000 years ago in 926 AD. Besides being one of Bali’s six holiest temples, it’s also one of the holiest water sources on the island along with Pura Bratan.
Within the sprawling complex, you’ll find several courtyards filled with baths brimming with devotees who’ve come to do water purification. There is also a large koi pond, a boiling hot spring pond, and loads of interesting statues scattered throughout the complex.
It is possible to do a cleansing bath for a small additional fee, but there are strict rules to follow. Make sure to ask your guide or the staff if you aren’t sure how to proceed. Remember to bring an extra set of clothes as no swimsuits are allowed.
Like other sacred sites around Bali, remember to dress respectfully and cover up before entering the premises. Alternatively, rent asarongandsashat the temple’s entrance. The entrance to the temple costs IDR 50,000.
Get lost in the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
While most Instagrammers flock to Tegalalang Rice Terraces, roughly an hour’s drive north of Ubud, you’ll find the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces.
As a designatedUNESCO World Heritage Sitesince 2012, Jatiluwih offers stunning views over rice terraces no matter which way you look. It’s an extremely beautiful and calm place to visit, making it a huge must on any nature lover’s 7-day Bali itinerary!
The best part? It’s not nearly as crowded as the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, and there are stacks of little trails to explore at your leisure.
Oh, and if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, Leke Leke Waterfall (one of Bali’s best waterfalls) is not too far here.
Try Kopi Luwak
One of the most popular things to do in Ubud is a Kopi Luwak tasting. If you’ve never heard of Kopi Luwak, then you’re in for a real surprise!
Kopi Luwak consists of somewhat digested coffee cherries, which have been eaten and excreted by the civets. In other words, civet poop. Despite sounding disgusting, it’s extremely aromatic and a popular drink in Bali. It’s also the world’s most expensive coffee!
If you feel adventurous and want to give this a try, please doproper researchfirst to find asustainable farmthat abides by eco-friendly practices to ensure the animals aren’t mistreated.
Go White River Rafting
For those seeking an adrenaline fix, Ubud’s lush jungles are perfect for all kinds of outdoor fun. Andjoining a white river rafting touralong the Ayung River (the longest river on the island) is an excellent add-on to any 7-day Bali itinerary!
With that said, though, river rafting is not for the faint-hearted! First, you’ll need to trek through lush rice fields. Then, you’ll need to scramble down rocky paths weaving through a lush rainforest down the gorge before finally reaching the gorgeous Ayung River.
The professional guides are extremely knowledgeable, and you will be briefed about proper rafting techniques and safety rules throughout the trip. Just a word of warning, the waters can be quite rough, so remember to follow the guides’ directions at all times.
Once you reach the finish line, you’ll get a chance to unwind, enjoy an ice-cold beer or a freshly cracked coconut, and a simple yet filling buffet meal.
Ubud Travel Tips
If you can,hirea private driverto see all of Ubud’s points of interest at your own pace. Alternatively, there are stacks of tour operators in town where you can simply walk in and book a tour for the next day. Just a word of warning, most of these drivers tend to rush from one spot to another.
Accommodation in Ubud
Need some help finding the perfect place to stay? Read my detailed guide on where to stay in Ubud or check out these options.
Recommended Ubud Tours
If you still need a few ideas on what to do in Ubud, here are some excellent side trips to add to your Bali 7 days itinerary.
Day 6-7 of Your 7 Days Bali Itinerary: Unwind at the Gili Islands
On day 6 of your Bali itinerary,catch a fast boat from Sanur harborto the dreamy Gili islands! You’ll want to get an early start because there are stacks to do – from lounging on pristine beaches and swimming with sea turtles and colorful marine life to soaking up the most epic island vibes and more!
Located near the northwestern coast of Lombok, the Gili Islands consist of three tiny islands; Gili Air, Meno, and Gili Trawangan. While each island is unique in character, all of them are indescribably beautiful! Expect to find crystal clear water full of treasures, secluded white beaches fringed with swaying palm trees, and countless swanky beach bars to while away the time.
The best part? There are no vehicles on any of the Gili islands, making it incredibly peaceful! To get around, opt to bike, stroll or hop in a cidomo (a horse-drawn carriage)!
So which Gili island is the best? In short, that depends on what you’d like to get out of your trip. No matter which island you choose, chances are you’ll wish you could stay longer! Here’s a quick breakdown to help you choose the right Gili Island for you.
Gili Trawanganis the largest of the 3 Gili islands and a great place for solo travelers, party-goers, families, or friends. The island has the biggest choice of accommodation, and there are loads to keep you busy, whether you have two days or many! Most of the island’s activities revolve around the water, snorkeling, diving, going on a sunset cruise, and lounging on the beach with a boozy co*cktail are just some of the things to do in Gili T!
Gili Air:You won’t find any of the crazy party crowds like on Gili T in Gili Air, but it’s a bit more lively than Gili Meno. Since Gili Air is a popular spot among honeymooners, couples, and families, it’s the perfect option for those looking for something a bit more laid back sans the crowds.
Gili Menois the smallest and arguably the most laidback of the three Gili islands. If you’re looking to have the beach all to yourself, this is the perfect option. Just a heads-up, though, there aren’t nearly as many restaurants or services here as in the other two, so make sure to keep that in mind.
How to Get to the Gili Islands
Thequickest way to get from Bali to the Gili Islands is by speed boat. Boats leave daily fromPadang Baiin northeast Bali and take roughly 1.5 hours to reach the islands.
Since you only have 7 days in Bali,pre-booking a fast boat to the Gili Islandsis strongly recommended. By doing so, you can spend less time traveling and more time enjoying the islands! If you book a ticket elsewhere, make sure it includes ahotel pickup and transfer to Padang Baito save the hassle of figuring out all the logistics! The drive from Ubud takes less than 1 hour while a journey from Seminyak takes 1h30.
Travel Tips:If you have a bit more time on your Bali 7 day itinerary, it’s worth checking out the northern coast of Bali too. Many cool diving sites, such as the USS Liberty Shipwreck, make it the perfect place to joinafun diving excursion. If you’re not a certified diver yet, consider doing thisbeginner scuba course.
Where to stay in Gili
Need some help choosing the best place to stay in Gili? Here are my top choices.
What to pack for your 7 days Bali Itinerary
Since Bali has hot temperatures throughout the year, make sure to pack light, breathable clothes. You’ll find loads of tips in my Bali packing list, but besides the usual beachwear you’d normally pack for an island getaway, here are few other items I recommend bringing along for your 7-day Bali itinerary.
- Reef-safe sunscreen:While you won’t have any trouble finding sunscreen across the island, it’s a good idea to pack sustainable sunscreen spray likethis. That way, you’ll stay protected and ensure you don’t harm the environment.
- Eco-friendly bug spray:You’re definitely going to need bug spray during your 7 days Bali itinerary, especially if you’re planning on visiting all the cool waterfalls, rice paddies, and rainforests in Ubud.
- Quick-drying towel:There’s nothing worse than carrying around a bulky wet towel. These Turkish beach towelscome in all kinds of funky colors and dry in a jiffy.
- Travel plug:You might need a travel adapter for your trip. Bali uses plug types C and F. The standard voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz. Thisinternational travel plug has four USB ports and works in over 200 countries.
- Portable Charger:If you also use your phone to take photos, it’s a good idea to carry a portable charger with you to ensure your battery never runs out.This oneis super lightweight and so tiny it can fit into your pocket!
- Camera:If there is only one thing you must pack for your Bali travel itinerary, it is a camera! I always travel with myOlympus Mirrorless Camera. If you’re looking for something a bit more lightweight,pack this GoPro Hero 12orthis DJI mini drone.
7 Days Bali Itinerary in Conclusion
Whether you’re a sun seeker, beach lover, adrenaline junkie, or foodie, Bali has something for everyone! I hope this 7 days Bali itinerary comes in handy when planning your first visit to this gorgeous island!
That’s all I’ve got on Bali! Feel free to share your top tips on what to do in Bali, the best places to stay, what to eat, and everything in between in the comments below!
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