3 Days / 2 Nights in Bali Itinerary

Q: My family is planning to visit Bali for three days and two nights this Sept. if you can help us to plan places to visit. We have two children that are coming with us.
We appreciate your help. Thanks.
– Sheila

With only 3 days, one important tip is that you should consider hiring a driver and a car * to take you around as Bali island itself is huge and would take quite a bit of time to get from one place to another. It would take more time and effort moving around with children, so maybe you should consider choosing what you like among the must-visit places in Bali. Also, check out our Top 10 Fun Things to Do with Kids in Bali for some ideas.

If you want to stick to the tried and tested route, visiting the best attractions, here is our suggested itinerary for 3 days in Bali:

Day 1 – Arrival, Uluwatu and Tanah Lot Temples, and dinner at Seminyak

Try to arrive early since you only have 3 days to visit this beautiful island, and stay in one of the strategic places in central or south of Bali. Hire a car in advance and use it to head straight to two of the most famous temples in Bali. First, head to Uluwatu Temple and double back to Tanah Lot Temple, in time to enjoy the amazing sunset there. If you are also in time, catch the famous Kecak Dance here, which is set against the backdrop of this beautiful temple. End the day with a good dinner at Ultimo in Seminyak.

I recommend you to try this one-day comprehensive tour * of the most iconic temples of Uluwatu, Tanah Lot and Ubud with English and Korean speaking driver.

Day 2 – Ubud, rice fields, beach, and seaside dining

Ubud is the place one must explore when in Bali. Walking around the city would be a delight; there are many boutiques to shop around, spas and massages to pamper yourself, and art or attractions to visit. Next, head out to the north to the neighboring town of Tegalalang to find classic rice terraces of Asia.

-> Check out this Ubud Private Day Tour * that covers the above and more!

Many tourists also like to stay in Ubud * as it is central to many attractions around Bali but yet away from the crowd in Kuta. After visiting Ubud, choose one of the beaches in Bali and get some swimming and tan; popular choices are Balangan or Padang-Padang beach. At sunset, head to Jimbaran and enjoy seaside romantic dining.

Day 3 – Temple or shopping or beach

Depending on how much time you have left, you may squeeze in one of two more things before heading to the airport for your departure. If you still want to explore more of Bali’s impressive temples, then I would recommend the Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, a beautiful mirrored temple by the lake. Or if you would prefer to pack in some last-minute shopping, there are few shopping places in Bali. Or, if you still do have not enough beaches, you know where to find more beautiful beaches in Bali to hang out.

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Best Accommodations in Bali

Booking.com is my favourite site to book a place when planning my trip to Bali. The main reason is that most of the bookings can be cancelled right up to the trip, allowing flexibility. Here are a few of the best accommodations that we recommend to stay in Bali:

Luxury (from 150 USD)

• Oberoi Villa, Seminyak
  For those who are looking for privacy and splurging for a honeymoon or special occasions. With quick access to Seminyak beach, this Balinese-inspired accommodation is built on 15 acres of tropical gardens. The Frangipani Cafe inside here is famed for its cuisine. Notable are their open-air massage pavilions and outdoor pool overlooking the ocean.
  Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
  Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
• Tandjung Sari Hotel, Sanur
  For those who appreciate traditional architecture and design. This hotel, built in 1962, encapsulates the Balinese style and spirit. The spacious gardens are thatched roofed bungalows, pavilions, sculptures and fish ponds. It also has direct access to the Sanur beach.
  Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
  Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *

-> See Best Luxury Hotels in Bali

Mid-range (50 – 150 USD)

• Sri Ratih Cottage, Ubud
  For those who are looking for unpretentious comfort with Balinese charm. Located in Ubud, our favourite place to stay in Bali, the Balinese-style cottages with carved wood furnishings are set in beautiful gardens with a pool.
  Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
  Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
• Resort Courtyard by Marriott Bali, Seminyak
  Marriott is a trusted brand for many, and this one in Bali lives up to its name. This secured luxury is located just 5 minutes walk from Seminyak beach. A noted feature is its private terraces for relaxation, hence making it a favourite of couples.
  Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
  Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *

Budget (below 50 USD)

• Nick’s Pension, Ubud
  For those seeking a mixture of peace and action in the heart of Bali – Ubud. The rooms come with traditional Indonesian architecture and air-condition. There is also a swimming pool, restaurant, Wifi and parking provided.
  Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
  Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
• Linda Villa, Sanur
  For the budget conscious, this guesthouse in Sanur is a steal, featuring swimming pools, clean, air-conditioned rooms, and a simple breakfast. It is located in a quiet place with only 15 minutes easy walk to the beach. Prices start from only 24 USD!
  Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
  Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *

-> See Best Budget Hotels in Bali

-> For more, read Top 10 Best Area to Stay in South & Central Bali

Travel Tips:

1. Book the best accommodations – Booking.com* or Agoda.com *

2. Find the cheapest flight options that suit you – Omio.com * or 12Go.asia *

3. Rent a car in advance and make your trip more convenient – Rentalcars *

4. Make the most of the time that you have! Exciting excursions, professional guides, and more – Klook *

Related article:
Bali Itinerary 4 days / 3 nights
Complete 5 days Itinerary in Bali
1 week Itinerary in Bali
10 days in Bali Itinerary
Top 10 Best Places to Stay in South & Central Bali