Bali Excursions

Planning a trip to Bali can feel like trying to pick your favorite flavor at an ice cream shop with 50 options. It’s wild. Everyone’s got their opinion, your feed is packed with jaw-dropping waterfalls and beach clubs, and you’re just trying to figure out what actually makes sense for a Bali itinerary 7 days kind of trip. I’ve done the week-long Bali run a few times now, and lemme tell you—it’s magic if you plan it right. But if you don’t? You’ll spend more time stuck in traffic between places than actually enjoying ‘em.

So I’m laying out the real stuff here. Not just what looks pretty in photos, but what actually works—day by day. I’m talking surf spots, rice terraces, monkey forests (yes, they’re a bit intense), sunrise hikes, chill beach days, and food so good you’ll think about it a year later. Plus a few “wish I knew before” kinda things that’ll save you money, time, and some sanity.

Day 1 – Welcome to Bali: Chill in Canggu Like a Local

Alright, so you just landed at Ngurah Rai International Airport, probably after a long-haul flight where your legs cramped up like pretzels. First rule: don’t try to do too much on day one. Trust me on this. Drop your bags at your hotel or villa—I usually stay in Berawa, Canggu, just ‘cause it’s got that mix of surf-town chill and good eats.

And Canggu isn’t all hype. Yes, it’s popular with digital nomads and influencers, but you’ll find plenty of down-to-earth spots too. My first stop? Crate Cafe. Their smoothie bowls are basically edible art and the coffee hits just right. After that, head down to Echo Beach for a sunset beer. Doesn’t matter how many times you’ve seen a Bali sunset in a picture—it hits different in person.

Download Gojek or Grab right away. These apps are lifesavers for rides and food delivery, especially when your jetlag kicks in and all you want is nasi goreng in bed.

Day 2 – Uluwatu Day Trip: Cliffs, Temples, and That Ocean Vibe

Uluwatu’s a must. But don’t make the mistake I did once—trying to squeeze this in as a half-day thing. Nah, give it the whole day. The drive from Canggu takes about 1.5 hours with traffic, so leave early.

Start with breakfast at Bukit Cafe (yep, even the toast is photogenic here), then head to Padang Padang Beach. It’s small but iconic. Think white sand, clear waves, and a few cheeky monkeys hanging out in the trees. After that, if you’re into surfing or just watching people wipe out with style, head to Uluwatu Beach and grab a coconut from one of the cliffside cafes.

The Uluwatu Temple at sunset is unreal—but be ready for crowds and monkeys that literally snatch your sunglasses. Bring a sarong or borrow one at the entrance (it’s a sign of respect), and make sure your stuff’s secure. I watched a monkey steal a guy’s GoPro once and the staff had to barter it back with bananas. No joke.

If you’re into nightlife, Single Fin is your spot for sunset drinks. Just make sure your driver knows where to find you later—roads can get confusing around here.

Day 3 – Central Bali: Waterfalls, Temples, and Rice Fields Around Ubud

Ubud’s like a different planet compared to the beaches. Greener, quieter (well, depending where you go), and just packed with spiritual energy and scenic spots.

Start early and make Tegenungan Waterfall your first stop. It’s the easiest one to reach, and yeah, it gets busy, but it’s worth it. Go early, wear grippy shoes, and bring a towel ‘cause you’ll want to swim.

Then head up to Tirta Empul, the holy water temple. Even if you’re not religious, there’s something calming about doing the cleansing ritual. Just follow the locals’ lead, wear a sarong, and be respectful. It’s not just for Instagram—it means a lot to the Balinese people.

In the afternoon, stop by Tegalalang Rice Terraces. There’s a swing if you’re feeling touristy, but I honestly just enjoy walking the paths and talking to the locals working in the fields. Grab lunch nearby (try Bebek Bengil for crispy duck), then head back toward Ubud town and wind down with a massage. Karsa Spa is my go-to—it’s in the jungle, and the setting alone will fix your jetlag.

Day 4 – Ubud Town Vibes: Monkeys, Markets, and Campuhan Ridge Walk

Day four’s good for slowing down a bit, but not too much. I like starting with the Monkey Forest in the morning. It’s cooler out, and the monkeys aren’t as aggressive early in the day. Still, don’t carry plastic bags or leave stuff hanging from your bag—they will jack your snacks.

Then it’s time to wander Ubud Art Market. Yeah, there’s touristy stuff, but if you poke around and chat with the vendors, you’ll find handwoven bags, real batik prints, silver jewelry from Celuk… the good stuff. And don’t forget to bargain—gently. It’s part of the culture, but be kind about it.

Lunch at Sayuri Healing Food or Clear Cafe if you’re into the healthy, plant-based thing. If not, Casa Luna’s got great Balinese dishes with a cozy setup. Later in the day, take the Campuhan Ridge Walk. Go around 4:30 PM for that golden hour glow. It’s just a 30-minute walk, but the views and peace make it feel longer (in a good way).

Day 5 – Northern Adventure: Mount Batur Sunrise Hike + Hot Springs

Okay, this one’s for the early birds. You’ll need to wake up around 2 AM. Brutal, I know, but the Mount Batur sunrise trek is worth it. It’s not easy—about 2 hours of uphill hike in the dark—but once you reach the top and see that first light hit the lake and volcano, you’ll forget you’re covered in sweat.

You can book a tour that includes pickup, guide, flashlight, and sometimes breakfast. I’ve used Sunrise Trekking & Tour—they’re solid and pretty chill. After the hike, you’ll want to hit the nearby hot springs. Toya Devasya is a popular one with pools right on the edge of the lake. It’s the reward you deserve after climbing a freakin’ volcano at 4 AM.

Afternoon? Nap. Seriously. Don’t try to push it. Maybe a quiet dinner in Ubud after. Try Ibu Oka’s for traditional Balinese suckling pig—it’s famous for a reason.

Day 6 – East Bali Road Trip: Sidemen Valley and Tirta Gangga

East Bali gets way less tourist traffic, which is exactly why it’s perfect. Sidemen Valley is one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve time-traveled. Green hills, rice paddies, farmers working barefoot… it’s quiet and humbling.

I usually start the day there with a slow breakfast overlooking the valley—check out Villa Karma Loka or Wapa di Ume Sidemen if you wanna splurge on a view. Then head toward Tirta Gangga Water Palace. It’s this old royal site with fish ponds and fountains you can walk through. Feed the koi, take a few photos, and just enjoy the vibe—it’s peaceful, not flashy.

If you’re up for another scenic stop, swing by Lempuyang Temple, the “Gates of Heaven.” But heads-up: the famous photo with Mount Agung in the background? There’s a line. Sometimes up to an hour. And it’s a trick photo taken with a mirror. Still cool, but don’t go expecting a spiritual epiphany in peace. You’ll be standing next to 40 people with selfie sticks.

Day 7 – Seminyak or Sanur: Slow Down Before You Fly Out

Last day! You’re tired but happy. You’ve done waterfalls, volcanoes, temples, beaches… now it’s time to chill. Depending on where your flight is and how much energy you’ve got left, I usually choose either Seminyak or Sanur.

Seminyak’s great for last-minute shopping (check out Seminyak Village or some of the boutique shops along Jalan Kayu Aya), and there are tons of cafes to people-watch from. I always grab one final smoothie bowl or banana pancake situation before I fly. Revolver’s coffee here is also top-notch.

If you want something quieter, Sanur’s your place. It’s more chill, with a long walking path by the beach and calm waters. Great for one last swim or just a beachside massage while you think about whether it’s really too soon to plan your next Bali trip.

Bonus Tips I Learned the Hard Way (So You Don’t Have To)

• Don’t try to cram in everything. Bali looks small, but driving anywhere takes way longer than you’d think.
• Cash is still king in small towns. Big resorts and cafes take cards, but warungs and local shops? Bring IDR.
• SIM cards are cheap and available at the airport or in town. Get one. The WiFi can be spotty in remote spots.
• Always ask for the meter in taxis—or just stick with Gojek and Grab to avoid scams.
• Don’t drink tap water. Seriously. Even brushing your teeth, use bottled water just to be safe.

This Bali itinerary 7 days plan hits the sweet spot between doing a lot and not burning out. It’s got beaches, jungle, culture, food, and enough chill time to actually enjoy the island without needing a vacation from your vacation. Hope this helps you plan something epic—and if you’ve got questions, shoot ‘em over. I’ve probably made that mistake already so you don’t have to.

Where to Stay Each Night Without Losing Your Mind (or Budget)

This part’s easy to mess up. Trust me, I once booked four different places across the island for a week, thinking it’d be smart to “stay near each attraction.” Spoiler: it was a pain in the butt. Packing, unpacking, traffic… we wasted so much time moving around.

Here’s what actually works:

• Nights 1–2: Stay in Canggu – This gives you beach time, chill cafes, and lets you recover from jetlag without rushing around. Look for spots like The Chillhouse (social vibe) or La Brisa Villas (quiet and stylish). If you’re on a tighter budget, Kos One is clean, friendly, and has a pool with rice field views.
• Nights 3–5: Base yourself in Ubud – You’re closer to temples, waterfalls, the volcano, and all the jungle vibes. Stay somewhere central, like Bisma Eight (a little spendy, but worth it) or if you want something affordable, check out Goutama Homestay—cozy, family-run, and walkable to everything.
• Nights 6–7: Back south in Seminyak or Sanur – You don’t want to be scrambling to get to the airport from Ubud. Traffic’s too unpredictable. Seminyak is good for shopping, beach clubs, and eating your way through your last rupiah. Sanur’s calmer, better for families or couples wanting to wind down.

Book your airport transfer in advance. Don’t rely on grabbing a driver last minute if you’ve got a morning flight. That’s stress you do not need.

What to Eat So You’re Not Just Living on Smoothie Bowls

Let’s be real—Bali food deserves its own itinerary. I’ve tried everything from tiny roadside warungs to $80-a-plate beachside dinners, and honestly? Some of the best meals I’ve had cost less than a Gojek ride.

Here’s how to mix it up:

Balinese Must-Trys

• Babi Guling (roast suckling pig): Crispy, spicy, juicy. Go to Ibu Oka in Ubud if you can.
• Nasi Campur: A plate of mixed stuff—rice, veggies, meat, peanuts, sambal. It’s different everywhere, which makes it fun. Warung Wardani in Denpasar does it great.
• Lawar: Chopped meat and veg, often with coconut and spices. It’s traditional and bold.

Where to Eat That’s Actually Worth the Hype

• Canggu: The Shady Shack (vegetarian, but satisfying even for meat-lovers), Warung Varuna (local, no-frills, tasty), and Give Cafe (all profits go to charity).
• Ubud: Clear Cafe (relaxing vibes), Naughty Nuri’s (ribs that will blow your mind), and Melting Wok (get the curry).
• Seminyak: Sisterfields (classic Aussie brunch vibes), Warung Murah (cheap and tasty), Motel Mexicola (go for the food, stay for the party).

And don’t skip out on fruit. You’ll see dragonfruit, rambutan, mangosteen, snakefruit… stuff you maybe never even knew existed. Try ‘em all. The fruit stands are cheap and the taste is next-level compared to supermarket versions.

What Stuff to Actually Pack for Bali (and What to Leave at Home)

I used to be an overpacker. Like, “why do I need three pairs of jeans in a tropical country?” kind of overpacker. Don’t do that. You’ll mostly be in swimwear, comfy clothes, and maybe one or two outfits for dinners out or temple visits.

Here’s what I bring every time now:

• 3–4 breathable shirts/tanks
• 2 pairs of shorts, 1 pair of loose pants or a skirt
• 1 light jacket or long sleeve (some evenings can get breezy in the hills)
• 1 swimsuit (2 is better if you’re always wet)
• A sarong (temple visits require it and it doubles as a towel or beach mat)
• Reef-safe sunscreen (expensive on the island)
• Bug spray (especially in Ubud or during rainy season)
• Travel sandals AND something sturdier like trail runners for hikes
• Quick-dry towel (for beach days or after waterfalls)
• Reusable water bottle—refill stations are everywhere now

Don’t bring a hair dryer or heavy makeup kit unless it’s super important to you. The humidity does not play nice, and your stuff will just end up taking space.

Oh—and leave space in your luggage for stuff you’ll wanna bring home. You’ll probably grab clothes, bags, maybe some handmade soap or wood carvings. Better to plan for it than end up paying overweight luggage fees (been there).

Getting Around Bali Without Losing Your Patience

Ok, this is a big one. People think they’ll just rent a scooter and zip around the island. And sure, in some areas that works. But a lot of travelers way underestimate how chaotic Bali roads can be. If you’ve never driven a scooter before, this ain’t the place to start.

Here’s what works:

• Scooters: If you’re confident, it’s the most convenient and affordable. Helmets are non-negotiable. Rain ponchos are your best friend.
• Gojek/Grab: Use them like Uber. Reliable, affordable, but some areas (like Uluwatu or the airport) have “local taxi zones” that don’t allow ride-shares. Always ask if you’re unsure.
• Private Driver: For full-day trips or remote spots like Mount Batur or Sidemen. Costs around 500,000 to 800,000 IDR ($35–55 USD) for 8–10 hours, depending on negotiation.
• Taxis: Only Bluebird Taxis are trustworthy with meters. The others… not so much. If you have to use one, agree on a price before you get in.

Also, always factor in time. That “short drive” might be 10km but take an hour. Google Maps is helpful, but the ETA is usually optimistic.

What NOT to Do in Bali (No One Talks About This Stuff Enough)

This one’s straight from experience and watching tourists make the same mistakes over and over:

• Don’t take photos in temples without checking if it’s allowed. And never step over offerings (you’ll see little baskets on the ground). It’s sacred.
• Don’t expect everyone to speak English fluently. Learn a few basics—“terima kasih” (thank you) goes a long way.
• Don’t drink arak from just anywhere. The local spirit’s strong and can be dangerous if it’s not made properly. Stick to bars you trust.
• Don’t ride animals (elephants, dolphins, etc.). It’s not ethical and honestly, there are way better ways to connect with nature here.
• Don’t assume Bali is just beaches and bars. The culture runs deep—go to a local ceremony if you get the chance. The music, the outfits, the vibe… it’s powerful.

What This 7-Day Bali Itinerary Costs (Ballpark Breakdown)

Bali can be done super cheap or on a baller budget. This breakdown is for a mid-range trip with a mix of local eats, a few luxuries, and private transport when needed.

Per day average for 1 person:

• Accommodation: $35–60
• Food & drinks: $20–30
• Transport (scooter or driver): $10–40
• Tours/activities (hikes, temples, etc.): $15–40
• Shopping/souvenirs: totally up to you

So roughly $80–150/day, depending how much you’re indulging. That puts a 7-day trip around $600–1000 USD excluding flights. Totally doable if you’re smart about where you splurge.

Still with me? Sweet. That’s a full-on guide to doing Bali in a week without the stress. Whether you’re going for sunsets and surf or jungle hikes and temples, this Bali itinerary 7 days layout’s been tested, tweaked, and loved by everyone I’ve shared it with.

And if something goes sideways while you’re there (flight delay, scooter scrape, food coma), don’t panic. Bali has a way of making it all part of the story.

Let me know if you want a version with nightlife spots, kid-friendly stuff, or the best yoga/retreat scene—I’ve done those trips too.