Things to Do in Ubud That Are Totally Worth It!

August 7, 2025

Planning a Trip to Ubud These Activities Are a Must

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I’ve visited Ubud numerous times over the years and I still find new places to explore. You’ve probably seen Ubud for its jungle swings and rice terraces, but what I found was so much more!

Sacred temples hidden in the forest full of monkeys, gentle breezes on sunrise ridge walks (one of my favourites), and some of the most peaceful moments I’ve had on any trip.

Ubud is the perfect place if you want to escape the beach crowds and take time out with nature, soak in Balinese culture, or just enjoy a quiet retreat.

So if you’re planning your first trip, here’s what I recommend seeing, doing, and experiencing in Ubud.

⏰ Short on time?

Where to stay in Ubud
($) In Da Lodge Hostel
($$) Alaya Resort Ubud
($$$) Komaneka at Bisma

View more hotel options here

Must-Do Activities in Bali
– Mount Batur Sunrise Hike
– Ubud Kecak and Fire Dance
– Tegallalang Rice Terraces stroll + coconut stop
– Traditional Balinese cooking class

Don’t wait till you land! Pre-book your Bali airport transfer

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Top Things to Do in Ubud

Walk the Campuhan Ridge

One of the easiest and most beautiful walks you can do in Ubud. The path weaves through jungle hills and open valleys, and it’s best done around sunrise or sunset when the light is soft and the trail is quiet. If humidity bothers you, definitely bring water.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Yes, it’s touristy, but walking through a sacred forest with ancient temple ruins and over a thousand cheeky macaques is unforgettable. Keep your sunglasses tucked away, they will grab them. I learned first-hand that these monkeys are not shy.

Tegalalang Rice Terraces

You can’t go to Ubud and not see these iconic, stepped rice paddies. The views are stunning, and if you arrive early, you’ll have a peaceful walk before the tour buses roll in. And yes, the swings and nests are fun too even if they’re a little extra.

👉 I’d book a Tegalalang and jungle swing tour here to make it easy.

Bali Swing at Tegalalang

👉 Watch my experience at the Bali Swing at Tegalalang Rice Terrace.

👉View tour here

Waterfalls Near Ubud

Ubud has several easily accessible waterfalls. Tegenungan is powerful and popular, Kanto Lampo is great for photos, and Tukad Cepung is the one with magical sunbeams shining through a cave opening if you arrive early enough.

👉 I recommend booking a waterfall day tour here so you can see a few in one go.

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)

This 11th-century temple is compact but full of character. I loved exploring the intricate carvings at the cave’s entrance and the peaceful gardens and bathing pools tucked behind.

Ubud Royal Palace & Saraswati Temple

Located right in the town centre, this is a lovely spot to stroll in the evening. There are lotus ponds, detailed Balinese carvings, and nightly cultural performances that feel more authentic than over-polished.

Museums & Art

If you’re into Balinese art, stop by Neka Art Museum or Museum Puri Lukisan. I always enjoy the mix of modern and traditional paintings, and it’s a nice break from the midday heat.

Traditional Dance Performances

Don’t miss a Legong or Kecak dance performance at a local temple. These are usually held after sunset and give you a glimpse into Bali’s deep spiritual and artistic roots.

👉 I’d grab your Ubud dance show tickets here to get a good seat.

Yoga & Wellness

Ubud is the wellness capital of Bali. There are yoga studios on every corner, and you’ll also find amazing sound healing sessions and spa treatments. I recommend booking your session in advance because the good spots fill up quickly.

👉 Browse the top-rated yoga and spa experiences here to secure your spot.

Cooking Classes

If you love food, book a local cooking class. You’ll usually start with a market visit, then cook dishes like nasi goreng, satay, and sambal matah. It’s one of my favourite ways to connect with the culture, plus Balinese food is delicious.

👉 I’d grab a cooking class with a market visit here, you won’t regret it.

Jungle Swings & ATV Adventures

They’re touristy but still fun, especially if it’s your first time. Swing out over the jungle, hop on an ATV through the mud, or join a cycling tour through rice paddies. Great for a little adrenaline between temple visits.

👉 I recommend this combo tour because it includes both the swings and ATV.

Where to Stay in Ubud

I’ve stayed in Ubud several times and it really depends on your vibe. Want to walk everywhere? Stay in central Ubud. Want something peaceful and romantic? Choose a jungle view resort outside town.

These are 3 hotels we recommend checking out.

($) In Da Lodge Hostel
($$) Alaya Resort Ubud
($$$) Komaneka at Bisma

View more hotel options here

Where I Stayed in Canggu

Watch our hotel review staying at Eastin Ashta Resort Hotel in Canggu.

👉 View the hotel here

Getting Around Ubud

I’ve stayed in Ubud several times and it really depends on your vibe. Want to walk everywhere? Stay in central Ubud. Want something peaceful and romantic? Choose a jungle view resort outside town.

If you’re staying central, walking is the best way to get around since there’s a lot of traffic. For anything outside town like waterfalls or rice fields you’ll need a ride.

Scooter: Easy and cheap (around 70k IDR/day), but only if you’re confident.
Private Driver: Ideal for day trips or anyone not comfortable on a scooter (around 500k IDR/day).

I recommend reserving a private driver here for the easiest way to explore.
Grab/Gojek: Not always reliable in Ubud, but worth checking.