Bali in 30 Days: A Complete Itinerary for Exploring the Island’s Natural Wonders
The paradise island of Bali Indonesia, where lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches await your exploration. If you’re planning a trip to this Indonesian gem and have the luxury of time on your side, then get ready for an unforgettable adventure. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or spiritual enlightenment, this tropical haven has something for everyone. From ancient temples that exude tranquillity to adrenaline-pumping water sports and serene rice terraces that seem straight out of a postcard – Bali truly offers it all.
So, pack your bags and prepare for the ultimate journey through one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting destinations!
Best time to Travel
The best time to travel in Bali would ultimately depend on your preferences, activities, and priorities. Generally, Bali has a tropical climate with two primary seasons: the dry season and the wet season.
April – September (Dry Season): An excellent time for outdoor activities, beach visits, surfing, and exploring the cultural side of the island.
October – March (Wet Season): Frequent rainfall is usually in the form of short, intense bursts followed by periods of sunshine, making it a good opportunity to enjoy indoor activities, spa retreats, lower accommodation prices and the landscapes are lush and green during this time.
Visa
Indonesia is popular among holidaymakers and digital nomads. Entry and arrival are smooth, with options to apply for an e-visa in advance or obtain a visa on arrival at Bali’s International Airport for £22.50.
Your visa can be extended once, for up to 30 additional days, but the process involves visiting the immigration office three times over 2-3 weeks. To save time, use a reputable Visa Extension Agency.
Be sure to check the current entry requirements for your country.
Food
Enjoy the delicious and satisfying flavours of local Balinese cuisine at affordable prices, typically ranging from $1-$3, by dining at cozy and humble Warungs (simple restaurants). The food is not spicy so be sure to try the iconic Nasi Goreng, Sate, Nasi Campur and Babi Guling.
Tap water is NOT safe to drink. To avoid the dreaded ‘Bali Belly’, avoid Ice in your drinks or consuming food at any restaurant or food stall that’s not busy or using fresh ingredients.
Transport
Getting around Bali, a large island with limited public transport options, is best accomplished by renting a scooter or hiring a private driver, which is common practice.
Scooter rentals are plentiful and reasonably priced, ranging from 70K IDR to 200K IDR per day, depending on the model for short-term rentals. While the main roads have decent infrastructure, be cautious with Google Maps’ directions as it may lead you through narrow alleys and unpaved routes.
White an international driver’s license is a requirement, it’s often not checked.
For island hopping, daily ferries are available, but during peak season, it’s advisable to book in advance through 12Go Asia for the best prices. Don’t expect the luxuries, like AC, WiFi or water. They’re usually overcrowded and oversold on tickets.
Grab & Go Jek are widely used as an alternative to hopping in a local taxi. The service is easy to use, and prices are very fair.
Budget
Bali offers the flexibility to comfortably explore and savour its attractions, accommodations, and food within a daily budget of $30-$50. However, for those seeking a more luxurious experience, indulging in private villas, western food, café delights, and hiring a personal driver may require a higher allocation in your trip budget. Below is an example of our daily budget for Bali:
Accommodation: $17
Food: $15
Activities: $2 -$10
Motor Bike rent: $2.80
Alcohol: $1.60 (Beer) – $6.70 (Cocktail)
Currency & ATMs
The currency used in Bali, is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). $1 is currently equivalent to 14,900 IDR.
It’s also typical for people to quote prices in USD, and some places will accept USD as payment, but we always recommend paying in the local currency. Few places will take card payments and they’ll often charge an extra 3% for the privilege so we suggest you carry cash where possible.
MayBank was the best ATM we found in most places around Bali with no fee charged. Other ATMs had a withdrawal fee of 20K IDR.
Safety
Bali is generally a safe destination for travellers, with welcoming and friendly local community. However, it’s always wise to take standard precautions such as safeguarding personal belongings and staying aware of your surroundings.
Traffic in Bali can be very congested and bike accidents are common. Always wear a helmet when on a scooter. Important thing to note, no one asked us for a deposit or kept our passports as guarantee when renting motorbikes. Never ever leave your passport with a stranger. Most rentals will deliver the bike to your hotel and once you’re done, they will collect the motorbike from the hotel too. Almost all rental places will have WhatsApp so you can contact them even before you’ve arrived at your destination and have the rental arranged.
Always have travel insurance. We use Safety Wing for cover during our trip.
1 month Itinerary
Dive into an exceptional trip through Bali as we unveil our carefully curated one month itinerary, featuring renowned destinations and valuable tips to help you craft cherished memories each day of your trip.
Legian or Seminyak, Bali (2-3 days)
Start your journey around the Island of the gods in either Legian or Seminyak after arriving at Ngurah Rai International Airport and jump in a Grab Taxi or Bluebird Taxi and head straight to your accommodation.
Legian and Seminyak are busy coastal neighbourhoods located on the southwestern coast of Bali, known for their beaches, upscale resorts, trendy bars, and lively nightlife scene.
Bali boasts a thriving surfing culture that is internationally acclaimed, attracting numerous avid surfers to its stunning beaches. However, beyond being a surfer’s paradise, Bali also offers excellent opportunities for beginners to learn the art of riding the waves. Grab your swimsuit and take a surf lesson at Kuta Beach, where you can refine your skills in beginner-friendly conditions. We opted for lessons with 7 Surf, a reputable surf school owned by Yuko, and it comes highly recommended by us!
After an exhilarating morning of riding the waves, it’s the perfect moment to hop on your scooter and make your way to a nearby warung (a local restaurant), where you can indulge in the delectable delights of Balinese cuisine. From aromatic Nasi Goreng to tantalising Satay, the flavours will leave you delighted, and the pocket-friendly prices make the experience top notch.
Seminyak is highly regarded for its expansive beaches, ideal for leisurely walks, socialising with friends, joining in beach volleyball matches, and enjoying refreshing cocktails with your loved ones while witnessing Bali’s golden hour. Spend the evening soaking up the picture-perfect sunset at the popular Seminyak Beach, Double Six Beach, and Petitenget Beach.
Canggu, Bali (2-3 days)
Undoubtedly, one of the most talked about areas in Bali, and a popular choice for visitors, particularly digital nomads, to set up their base. Explore the diverse range of restaurants, showcasing an array of cuisines at remarkable reasonable prices. You can’t visit Canggu without capturing an Instagram-worthy smoothie bowl and sipping on iced coffee at one of the numerous cafes along the main street is a must-do! Our personal recommendations include Word Hummus Bar & Milk and Madu!
Canggu has a buzzing shopping scene where you can really “shop til you drop”. Explore Love Street for a selection of trendy fashion pieces or visit La Brisa Sunday Market to discover beautifully crafted handmade souvenirs.
If you’re in need of a relaxed day, head over to Potato Head Beach Club or Mrs Sippy Beach Club, where you can top up your tan, cool off in the pool and soak up the fantastic atmosphere. Don’t forget a coconut!
For a dip into the culture, make your way to Pura Tanah Lot during sunset and behold the magnificent splendour of this Balinese temple.
Ubud, Bali (3-4 days)
Seeking a refreshing shift in surroundings? Get lost in the tranquillity of Ubud’s nature, where you can embrace the serene ambiance of lush jungles, dreamy rice fields and an abundance of stunning waterfalls.
Tegalalang Rice Terraces present breath-taking vistas of terraced landscapes and verdant surroundings. Enjoy the panoramic view from an elevated vantage point, or venture across a small stream and immerse yourself in the picture-perfect rice fields. Arrive at sunrise for the magical mist around the rice fields and be sure to avoid the ‘main’ entrance and head to the eastern entrances for a 25K IDR entrance fee.
Campuhan Ridge Walk offers a peaceful and scenic pathway in Ubud, where nature enthusiasts can take on a marvellous hike through lush greenery, charming villages and incredible views of the surrounding valleys.
In the heart of Ubud, the Sacred Monkey Forest must be visited, where you can spend the afternoon strolling through the forest of great cultural importance, home to a population of 1260 playful monkeys. The entrance fee is 80K IDR but be cautious not to bring any food or beverages as the monkeys are known to be quite mischievous.
Witness the breathtaking beauty of Bali’s waterfalls. Kanto Lampo, Tibumana, and Suwat Waterfalls, located a short drive from Ubud, are worth visiting. To fully appreciate these waterfalls, it is highly recommended to visit early, allowing you to bask in their magnificent glory before the influx of crowds.
Be sure to spend an evening in the royal palace grounds for a special Balinese Legong Dance performance. For a ticket costing 100K IDR, you’ll see graceful movements, intricate costumes and traditional music intertwine to create an intriguing display of culture.
Sidemen, Bali (1-2 days)
Approximately one hour inland, you’ll find yourself among the picturesque countryside of Sidemen. Here, you’ll be greeted by the remarkable backdrop of Mount Agung, majestically bathing in the warm sunlight.
Get ready for the unique charm of Bali by staying in a bamboo villa, where traditional craftsmanship meets sustainable and beautiful architecture. Nestled into greenery, these eco-friendly retreats offer a tranquil and harmonious escape, allowing you to reconnect with nature while enjoying modern comforts in the perfect setting.
Tukad Cepung stands out as Bali’s most iconic waterfall, offering a truly remarkable and creative photo opportunity. While swimming is not permitted, (it’s not deep enough, max knee height), the waterfalls beauty shines through as the morning light filters through the opening at the top around 9-10am, illuminating the water. Arriving at around 7.15am allowed us the privilege of having the place to ourselves.
Amed, Bali (3-4 days)
Amed, a laid-back coastal village in Bali, draws attention with its pristine beaches, teeming marine life, and authentic fishing village charm.
Explore the marine life and amazing coral reefs by snorkelling or diving in the crystal-clear waters of Amed. The USS Liberty Shipwreck and Jemeluk Bay are popular spots for underwater adventures.
Indulge in beachside bliss, as Amed beckons with its powder-soft sands, crystal-clear waters, adorned by rustic white fishing boats, and an ambiance that exudes calm, relaxing vibes. Unwind at Jemeluk Beach and Lipah Beach.
Hop on your scooter towards Bukit Cinta, a beautiful hill that provides an unreal panoramic viewpoint of Mount Agung. This hidden gem requires no official entrance or fee, as it simply offers a remarkable photo opportunity in the middle of a scenic field.
When it comes to incredible views of Mount Agung, Lahangan Sweet is a great spot to visit. It’s situated approximately 30 minutes away from Amed. Although the road leading to it is steep, you can arrange for a private car if scooter riding isn’t your preference. Multiple platforms at Lahangan Sweet offer fantastic photo opportunities to admire the views. To ensure optimal visibility, it’s recommended to visit in the morning.
Uluwatu, Bali (3-4 days)
When it comes to Bali’s beaches, Uluwatu truly reigns supreme as the ultimate queen. With its pristine white sand, crystal-clear waters, perfect waves for surfing, and an abundance of beach clubs, Uluwatu became our favourite destination on the island. Not only does it offer a great food scene and affordable accommodations, but it also boasts some of the best beaches Bali has to offer. Take a dip at Padang Padang Beach. Top up your tan at Suluban Beach. Play in the waves at Dreamland Beach. Sip cocktails in the beach club at Melasti Beach. Beach ’ed out yet?
Experience the sheer beauty of Bali’s southern shores as the sun dips below the horizon, casting golden and pink hues across the sky. Make your way to Balangan Beach and follow the sings to the designated sunset spot. You can relish the therapeutic sound of crashing waves, unbelievably amazing views from above the beach, and the perfect blend of island vibes in the company of loved ones.
Delve into the ancient spiritual aura of Bali by visiting Pura Luhur Uluwatu, perched on a stunning cliffside. Witness mesmerising sunset views and experience the traditional Kecak dance performance.
Nusa Penida (2-3 days)
Nusa Penida’s iconic Diamond Beach is on the southeastern tip of the island, the beach is blessed with golden glows of sunrise. Consider arriving as early as 6am to capture the beauty. Hike the crazy steps crafted into the cliffside and rope climb onto the beach for the craziest waves we’ve ever seen. The climb is sketchy in parts so only climb if you’re confident. Swimming is prohibited here due to the strong currents and rocks.
Adjacent to the area, lies Atuh Beach, which can be reached by hiking down the opposite side. This beautiful beach offers sun loungers and a peaceful atmosphere, providing a quieter alternative.
Kelingking Beach, the famous T-Rex shaped cliff is the number one spot to visit. Incredible panoramic views of turquoise waters and rugged coastline, making it an unforgettable destination for nature
enthusiast. You can hike 45 minutes to 1 hour down to the beach, surrounding yourself with the unreal views from the base of the majestic cliffs but note that swimming is restricted due to strong currents. Bali day tours tend to arrive on the island around 9.30am, so arrive early.
Angels Billabong is a natural rock pool, with a picturesque setting that attracts visitors with its raw beauty. Combine this visit to Broken beach, a stunning cove on the island.
Take a day trip to the smaller islands of Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Ceningan. Explore the natural beauty of these smaller and lesson visited gems of Bali. A wealth of activities to indulge in, from exploring underwater landscapes by snorkelling or diving, to cruising around the island on a scooter. Enjoy sunsets at iconic spots like Devil’s Tear and Dream Beach.
Gili Trawangan (2-3 days)
Gili Trawangan in Bali is a tropical haven. Renowned for its lively island atmosphere that beckons travellers seeking relaxation but also adventure. The larger island of the 3 Gili’s, taking a boat between the islands is possible to enjoy a day spent relaxing on the beach of Gili Air.
Rent a bicycle to explore the island at a relaxed pace. Take in the scenic coastal views, pedal through quaint villages, and embrace the laid-back lifestyle. Head to Ego and sip on an ice cold coconut on the beach front.
Discover the underwater wonders, swim with sea turtles, and witness the beauty of the ocean. Especially the ‘Nest’ underwater statues just offshore on Gili Meno. These submerged sculptures show a mesmerising glimpse into the underwater world, attracting divers and snorkelers.
Experience the bustling nightlife scene on Gili Trawangan, where beach bars and clubs come alive with music, dancing, and entertainment. Enjoy beach parties, live music and fire shows while revelling in the energetic vibes of this tropical paradise.
Kuta, Bali (1 day)
Spend your last day in Bali in Kuta, being near the international airport.
Waterbom Water Park in Bali promises endless fun and excitement with its exhilarating water slides, lazy rivers, and tropical attractions. It’s a perfect escape for families and water enthusiasts alike.
For your final meal before departing the island of the gods, you must do yourself a favour and try the ‘Porncakes’ at Brunch Club Bali, for the fluffiest, spongiest, most flavourful, and insanely sweet pancakes! We promise you won’t be disappointed, or hungry!
Where should you visit next? Check out our Vietnam & Thailand blogs.
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