Complete Bali Itinerary 5 Days

With the Bali Itinerary 5 days, you could see some of the must-visit places in Bali and more.

One important tip is to consider hiring a driver and a car to take you around, as Bali island is huge and would take a lot of time to get from one place to another. If you don’t mind some serious moving around for some of the tourist attractions while having a day or two for relaxation, then our suggested 5 days itinerary in Bali is best for you:

Why Follow this Bali Itinerary 5 Days?

Given our limited time to explore the stunning island of Bali, we have carefully curated an itinerary that includes its absolute highlights. Prepare to be amazed as we visit Uluwatu Temple, and Tanah Lot Temple, and witness the mesmerizing Kecak Dance. We’ll also relax and soak up the sun at some of Bali’s finest beaches.

Additionally, we’ll ensure you don’t miss out on classic Bali experiences like shopping, nightlife, and indulging in a memorable sunset dining experience. Lastly, we’ve dedicated a day to exploring the renowned heart of Bali, Ubud, and its captivating surroundings. Get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with the best that Bali has to offer.

Where to stay in Bali for 5 Days?

Given our limited time to explore this island, we recommend choosing a central area such as Ubud or Kuta for your stay. These two locations offer convenient proximity to Denpasar Airport, where most of us arrive in Bali. By staying in Ubud or Kuta, you’ll find navigating the island easier and making the most of your short trip.

For an optimized itinerary, we recommend visiting Kuta on the first day to enjoy its beach and vibrant nightlife. On the last day, focus on exploring Ubud, which offers a strategic location and a variety of serene retreats for unwinding after a day of adventures. I highly recommend staying in Ubud for these reasons.

Day 1 – Arrival and Kuta

Arrive at Denpasar International Airport and plan how to get to your hotel early. If you have not considered where to stay, our Top 10 Best Areas to Stay in South & Central Bali will help you find a suitable one. Head quickly to Kuta beach and get some suntan, and swim in. After enjoying the beautiful sunset, head to the city and check out Kuta’s vibrant nightlife. If you plan to stay in Kuta *, there are naturally lots of choices.

Highlights

There are also many places to stay in Kuta *, if you like to be in the center of the action. Hiring a private car charter *may be a good idea to cover airport transfer and visiting Kuta if you are not staying there.

Day 2 – Uluwatu and Tanah Lot Temple

Start your day by visiting Uluwatu Temple, an iconic cliffside temple known for its breathtaking views. Take your time to explore the temple grounds and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance. Afterward, make your way back to Tanah Lot Temple, a picturesque temple perched on a rocky outcrop surrounded by the ocean. Arrive in time to witness the mesmerizing sunset that graces this location. Also, catch the famous Kecak Dance, where enchanting chants and rhythmic movements unfold against the backdrop of the beautiful temple. To culminate your day, grab dinner at Ultimo in Seminyak, renowned for fantastic food in a vibrant atmosphere.

Highlights

Book this Tanah Lot, Uluwatu and Kecak Dance tour for convenience! *

Day 3 – Beach day

After the hectic day from yesterday, it is an excellent time to check out some of the best beaches of Bali. Choose one of the many choices and have a good relaxation. Chill on white sand beaches, swim or snorkel in the clear blue sea and get some holiday tan. A few of my favorites are Balangan Beach and Padang-Padang Beach. Towards the evening, go to Jimbaran for a romantic seaside dinner. Since you are in this area, check out the rock bar at RIMBA Jimbaran Bali by AYANA * after.

Highlights

To ensure a seamless experience while visiting the beaches you have chosen, including dinner and a bar, I recommend hiring a private car charter *.

Day 4 – Explore Ubud and the rice fields

Ubud is the place one must explore when in Bali. Dedicate half the day to check out some of the best Ubud attractions:

• Ubud Temples – Pura Taman Saraswati or Pura Dalem Ubud.
• Monkey Forest
• Art Museums

Next, head out to the north to the neighboring town of Tegalalang to find classic rice terraces of Asia. Prepare to be captivated by the sheer beauty of the landscape as you embark on your journey through Bali, whether by car or bike. Picture a picturesque backdrop with cascading terraces, creating a mesmerizing sight that stretches as far as the eye can see, framed by vibrant greenery and serene rice fields.

Then, stop by Aloha Ubud * to experience the renowned Bali swing, conveniently located on our route. This exhilarating attraction offers a unique perspective and an opportunity to capture breathtaking photos amidst the lush surroundings. Once you’ve enjoyed your swing adventure, conclude your day with a relaxing dinner in Ubud.

Highlights

Many tourists also like to stay in Ubud * as it is central to many attractions around Bali and yet away from the crowd in Kuta.

Day 5 – Massage and last-minute shopping

For our last day, depending on when you are flying out, you may be able to squeeze in one of the famous massages or spas in Ubud for a lovely end to your Bali trip.

Then head out for some last-minute shopping in Ubud! In Ubud, you’ll find a vibrant shopping scene. Here are some options:

• Ubud Art Market: Traditional crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
• Boutique Shops and Galleries: Unique fashion, jewelry, and contemporary art.
• Pasar Seni Sukawati: Affordable Balinese crafts, batik, and silver jewelry.
• Ubud Traditional Market: Local produce, spices, baskets, and snacks.

If you are pressed for time, choose one of the above before heading off. Also, if you are flying much later than check out, ask your hotel to let you keep your stuff while you head out to shop or for a massage.

Highlights

Bali 5 Days Itinerary Recommended Tours

Make the most of your 5-day trip to Bali by booking recommended tours that ensure a memorable and hassle-free experience.

How to get to Bali

To get to Bali, there are several options available:

By Air: The most common way to reach Bali is by flying into Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar Airport. It is well-connected to major cities worldwide, with numerous airlines offering direct flights to Bali *.

By Sea: Bali can also be reached by sea through ferry services. Regular ferry connections are from neighboring islands like Java and Lombok to Bali. However, this option may take longer and is more suitable for those who prefer a scenic and leisurely journey.

Once you arrive in Bali, you can easily find transportation options like taxis, ride-hailing services, or private transfers to take you to your desired destination on the island.

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