Building a 1 day Ubud itinerary is tough. So we’ve narrowed down all the best parts, into the perfect Ubud day trip.
How To Get Around Ubud
Getting around Ubud couldn’t be easier. There are generally 3 options:
Scooter
We always choose to rent scooters, which start at around 50,000 IDR per day, and explore ourselves.
However be sure to read up on our Renting A Scooter In Bali guide beforehand!
Most accommodations will allow you to store your big bags with them, even after checkout.
So if you’re comfortable on two wheels, and looking for somewhere to rent scooters from, you can book a trusted scooter or motorbike rental in advance.
Driver
Another option is to rent a driver, which is pretty popular for day trips around Bali, and they start at around 500,000 IDR per day (8 hours).
You can opt for standard 5 seater vans, or larger minibuses for bigger groups.
This is a great option for those looking to design their own itinerary. Simply jump in, tell you driver exactly where you wish to go, and he’ll navigate the most efficient route.
If you’re looking for for a reliable service, you can book a private car with a driver for the day.
Tour
Some of the best days out we’ve had in Bali have been on private tours.
For those short on time, or that prefer everything to be organised for them, there are some awesome tours on Get Your Guide available to book in advance.
There’s even a Bali: Full-Day Instagram Highlights Tour, for those looking to photograph its most recognisable locations.
From sunrise hikes, to waterfall treks and island hopping, there’s plenty to keep you busy on the bustling island!
Best Time To Visit Ubud
The best time to visit Bali is between April and October, the island’s dry season.
This is when you can enjoy all the island has to offer, from beach days to trekking, with generally the perfect weather conditions.
For cheaper prices and fewer crowds, November to March is the best time. (Excluding Christmas and New Year.)
However, this is the wet season and it can be pretty hot and humid with some heavy down pours.
Remember, this is just a guide, so you may want to mix it up and add/subtract different attractions.
What To Pack
1 Day In Ubud Itinerary
Sunrise At Tegalalang Rice Terraces
There’s no better place to start your 1 day Ubud itinerary than at the famous Tegalalang Rice Terraces.
The Tegalalang Rice Terraces are located in the centre of the island, and are just over a 20 minute drive from Ubud.
It will make for an early wake up call, however sunrise amongst the lush green fields and palms make for an epic way to begin your day of exploring.
Tegalalang Rice Terraces are one of the most famous rice fields in Asia, and certainly one of the most popular things to do in Ubud.
The natural sun rays peaking through the palm trees and bouncing off the rice paddies is truly magical.
Take a walk around, see the local farmers at work, even jump on the zip lines and jungle swings if you’re feeling adventurous!
There’s a specific sunrise spot that has become quite popular for photo opportunities. Once you enter the grounds of Tegalalang, head to the back of the fields.
There’s a local farmer who charges 50,000 IDR to open his gate, allowing you to walk through the rice terraces and grab that famous Bali Instagram photo.
If you prefer everything to be organised for you, we recommend booking a Best of Ubud: Waterfall, Rice Terraces & Monkey Forest tour.
Tegenungan Waterfall
After an hour or so exploring Tegalalang, and once the sun has fully risen, we recommend cooling off on your 1 day Ubud itinerary.
Some of the waterfalls near Ubud are known as the best waterfalls in Bali, and if you hit them on a hot, clear day then it’s hard to beat it.
The one we always recommend for first time visitors is Tegenungan Waterfall. It’s family friendly, easy to access and makes for great photo opportunities.
We’ve visited Tegenungan a few times, and it’s a very social place. There’s a part where you can play around with the funny signs and create photos with the waterfall in the backdrop.
There’s also a swing that’s been created – for the perfect Bali Instagram photo.
There are two platforms to view the waterfall from too, both connected by a bamboo bridge.
You can pay another 10,000 Rupiah to get an awesome middle level view and even go another tier higher to the top of Tegenungan.
From here you can really see the speed of the falls as well as the huge drop in which it starts.
Don’t forget to save 15,000 Rupiah for your well deserved corn on the cob, on the way out!
The only downside to Tegenungan, is that sometimes no swimming is prohibited due to heavy winds or fallen rocks!
Although if you just want to cool off, there are plenty of spots where you can take a dip without it being a hazard.
If you’re looking specifically for a place to jump in and make a splash, we recommend Tibumana Waterfall. It’s also a lot less touristy.
Or if you’re looking to smashed a few waterfalls in one day, check out the Ubud: Spectacular Waterfalls tour.
Ubud Monkey Forest
Following waterfall hunting, the next stop on your 1 day Ubud itinerary is to head back into town and conquer the famous Monkey Forest.
Ubud Monkey Forest will have you entertained for hours, not only because of the monkeys, but the forest itself too. It’s also a great place if you want to get a real feel for the true culture and nature of Bali.
Home to a horde of grey, long-tailed macaques and it’s another of best things to do in Ubud.
The monkeys at Ubud Monkey Forest are definitely the tamest we’ve seen in Asia. They have grown up around people their whole lives, so they are used to the constant humans passing through, day in day out.
However, it’s no secret that people HAVE been bitten in Ubud Monkey Forest! We’ve personally never experienced any problems, and have visited a handful of times with friends.
You can really have a great time if you do your research, and follow the safety precautions provided.
You’ll be able to explore the forest and observe the monkeys at ease if you just remember they are not pets, they are wild animals.
Monkeys can become territorial and aggressive in the blink of an eye, so it’s important to follow the precautions.
Please don’t fear though, as it’s simply a must visit on your Ubud day trip.
Ubud Art Market
Slowing things down in the afternoon, and located just a walking distance from the Monkey Forest, is the most popular market in Bali.
The Ubud Art Market is located smack-bang in the centre of Ubud town, so it would be foolish not to swing by on your 1 day Ubud itinerary.
Here you can find beautiful silk scarves, handmade woven bags, baskets, hats and many other hand-crafted goods.
If you’re on holiday in Bali, the Ubud Art Market is a great place to shop for souvenirs to take home.
The items sold are typically Balinese, unique and some are unavailable elsewhere. They are locally made from all the neighbouring towns, so this makes the market all the more special.
Ubud is the artistic region of the island, so you can find all the best handmade goods here.
Not only is the Ubud Art Market a great place for shopping, but it’s also great for those who love street style photography.
There are opportunities everywhere you look to capture those typical ‘time passing’ shots. People come and go, and the backdrops are beautiful.
Campuhan Ridge Walk For Sunset
The perfect way to end your Ubud day trip is with a beautiful stroll in the evening along Campuhan Ridge Walk.
With so many photo opportunities, this popular 2km walk take you from one end of Ubud to the other.
The full walk is along a smooth, pathed track. So there’s no need to dress in your hiking gear as it can be just a simple stroll.
The Campuhan Ridge Walk leads you through the middle of Ubud, and at an average pace, takes around 1.5 hours to complete.
There are points that are uphill and downhill but nothing too strenuous.
It’s super family friendly, in fact it’s the perfect place to hang out with friends, and this spot has quickly become recognised for it’s windy block paved path and scenic vistas.
Sunset is the perfect time for visiting, as it’s way cooler and the warm lighting that beams onto the trail makes for the perfect Bali Instagram photo.
Make sure to carry plenty of water, because after your long Ubud day trip the Bali humidity can be a little tiring.
Where To Stay In Ubud
Luxury
is in the heart of , the cultural centre of .
The resort is set amidst the , offering an outdoor pool and a fitness centre.
Guests enjoy free daily afternoon tea and tropical fruits.
The contemporary Balinese-style rooms all come with a flat-screen TV and a private terrace overlooking the natural greenery.
The private bathrooms, decorated in artworks, provide complete facilities.
Alaya Resort Ubud is just 200 metres away from the Monkey Forest and 700 metres away from Ubud Market.
Mid-Budget
Featuring 2 landscaped pools and a restaurant, Pertiwi Bisma 2 offers guests a memorable stay, a 5-minute drive from Ubud Monkey Forest.
Free WiFi is available in all areas, and also free shuttles to Ubud Market.
Rooms in Pertiwi Bisma 2 come with air conditioning, a flat-screen cable TV, an electric kettle and a coffee/tea maker.
Nestled within tropical gardens, they all come with a private terrace. Complimentary bottled water is provided.
Balinese dance classes, trekking and hiking activities are also available.
Budget
Nestled amongst lush garden, Sila Urip Guest House is located in the tranquil part of Ubud.
Each room here will provide you with a terrace and a seating area, where you can enjoy garden view from each room.
Featuring a shower and private bathroom, rooms also come with free toiletries. Guests can also order room service.
At Sila Urip Guest House you will find a garden and a terrace. The friendly staff can assist with bike hire, shuttle service and airport transfer at additional charges.
For more places to stay in Ubud, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com.
More Bali Blogs
Bali Itinerary – Backpacking Bali + Where To Go
Best Waterfalls Near Ubud – A Complete Guide
Best Bali Instagram Spots – Ultimate Guide
Where To Stay In Bali – A Complete Guide
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