Top Things to Do in Bali
If you’re planning a relaxed but rich 7 day Bali itinerary and you’re 30 or older, this guide is written for you. Bali offers a graceful blend of culture, calm nature, soulful dining and simple luxuries — ideal for travelers who want meaningful experiences over frenetic activity. Before we jump into the day-by-day schedule (Part 2), here’s a concise primer on the most beloved activities and recurring events, plus the best romantic spots for couples.
Popular activities & ongoing events (start here — calm, cultural, social)
Rather than throwing you straight into adrenaline-fuelled adventures, start with these pillars that define Bali for thoughtful travelers: culture, gentle nature, food & markets, spiritual spaces, and live performances. Each item below links to official pages or maps and gives a practical price cue.
1. Temple visits & ritual experiences
Visiting temples in Bali is a slow, respectful way to understand local life. Key temples to consider:
- Uluwatu Temple — iconic cliffside temple with sunset views and traditional Kecak dance performances most evenings. Official info. Price: temple entry ≈ $2–$3; Kecak show ≈ $7–$12.
- Tanah Lot — famous sea temple reachable at low tide; dramatic photo ops. Official page. Price: ≈ $3–$5.
- Goa Gajah & Tirta Empul (near Ubud) — spiritual purification springs and ancient cave sites. Maps & details: Goa Gajah (Google Maps), Tirta Empul (Google Maps). Price: $2–$6.
2. Ubud: art, rice terraces and mindful culture
Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali — galleries, craft markets, and leafy walks. If your plan includes things to do in Ubud Bali Indonesia, prioritize:
- Ubud Royal Palace & Ubud Market — art, textiles, daytime performances. Google Maps. Price: palace often free, market purchases vary.
- Campuhan Ridge Walk — an easy, photogenic nature trail just outside central Ubud. Free.
- Traditional dance & music shows — usually evenings at the palace or local venues. Tickets ≈ $5–$15.
3. Markets & food experiences — local flavors, leisurely pace
Bali’s markets are social hubs. For calm, authentic food exploration try:
- Ubud Art Market — handicrafts and locally made goods. Tip: bargain politely.
- Jimbaran Fish Market & Sunset Dinners — choose fresh seafood and have it grilled on the beach. Dinner for two ≈ $20–$50 depending on choices. Jimbaran (map).
4. Rice terraces & relaxed nature walks
Not all nature has to be intense. For contemplative landscapes:
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces (Ubud) — walk the rim paths, take photos, enjoy small cafés overlooking the paddies. Map. Entry donation ≈ $1–$3.
- Subak irrigation tours — learn about traditional water management and rice farming. Local guides usually charge ≈ $10–$20 for short tours.
5. Spa, wellness & yoga (slow, restorative days)
Many travelers come to Bali for rest: Balinese massages, yoga sessions, and holistic retreats are widely available. Typical prices:
- Balinese massage ≈ $10–$30 (60–90 minutes).
- Yoga drop-in classes in Ubud ≈ $6–$12.
6. Seasonal & recurring cultural events (year-round highlights)
Bali hosts regular ceremonies and festivals that travelers can witness respectfully. Examples:
- Galungan & Kuningan — major Balinese Hindu celebrations (dates vary by Balinese calendar) with offerings, temple ceremonies and community festivities.
- Art festivals & monthly markets — Ubud often holds weekend craft fairs and gallery openings year-round.
- Traditional dance and gamelan performances — frequent in cultural centers (Ubud Palace, local temples).
Romantic experiences & best destinations for couples
Couples in their 30s and beyond usually prefer intimacy, good food, and memorable quiet moments. Below are tried-and-true romantic ideas and the best places to enjoy them.
1. Sunset dinners on Jimbaran Bay
Walk out on soft sand and choose a beachfront table while local chefs grill seafood at sunset. Expect a romantic meal for two ≈ $25–$60 depending on wine and seafood choices. Jimbaran Bay map.
2. Private dinner overlooking rice terraces (Ubud)
Many resorts and private chefs can arrange table-for-two dinners at terrace viewpoints — a quiet, luxurious memory. Price range for private dinners ≈ $50–$150 depending on customization.
3. Sunrise Mount Batur + hot springs (intimate version)
For couples who enjoy a shared achievement: a guided, gentle sunrise trek up Mount Batur followed by a soak in nearby hot springs. Group trek ≈ $40–$60; private guiding packages higher but more intimate.
4. Tranquil boat ride in Sanur / Nusa Lembongan
Take a calm sea cruise or short boat trip to Nusa Lembongan for quieter beaches and a relaxed island day. Return boat ≈ $20–$40 pp; private boat options available.
5. Spa day for two
Book a couples’ Balinese massage, flower baths, and relaxation rooms — a full spa ritual is often priced between $50–$150 per couple depending on level of luxury.
6. Cultural evenings — dance & candlelit dinners
Attend a traditional dance performance in Ubud or Uluwatu and pair it with a nearby candlelit dinner. Dance tickets ≈ $5–$15; dinners vary.
Tip for couples: Book private or semi-private experiences a few days ahead, and request small details (flowers, a preferred wine) to elevate the moment. Bali’s vendors are experienced at arranging intimate surprises.
7 Day Bali Itinerary
This 7 day Bali itinerary is built for travelers aged 30+ who want balance: culture, calm nature, meaningful experiences and a few well-chosen adventures. Each day lists multiple options (morning / afternoon / evening) so you can pick what fits your pace — whether that’s a slow walk through rice fields, an intimate cultural evening, or a refreshed beach afternoon. Useful links and approximate prices are included to help you plan.
Keyword note: If you’re searching for “7 day bali itinerary” or looking up things to do in Ubud Bali Indonesia, this plan gives both a local-focused Ubud chunk and island highlights.
Quick planning tips before you start
- Book key experiences (Mount Batur trek, Nusa Penida day trip, popular Ubud shows) at least a few days ahead in high season.
- Carry local cash for small purchases and donations at temples (IDR ≈ 10,000–50,000). Credit cards work in many places but not everywhere.
- Transport: private drivers are affordable and convenient for island transfers (expect $40–$60/day depending on distance). Scooter rentals are common (~$5–$10/day) but only recommended if you’re experienced.
- Respect local dress codes at temples (sarong & sash often required — can be rented at site for a small fee).
Day 1 — Arrival, Seminyak or Canggu: Gentle Landing
Morning
- Arrive at Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) and transfer to Seminyak or Canggu. Airport taxi or private transfer (~$10–$30 depending on vehicle).
- Settle in and take a relaxed beach walk to clear travel fatigue.
Afternoon — Choose one
- Option A: Chill at the beach club (Seminyak) — lounge, light lunch. Beach club entry often free, food/drinks from ~$10+. Example: La Plancha (Seminyak).
- Option B: Explore Jalan Oberoi shops & design boutiques for a gentle first-day stroll.
Evening
- Sunset on the beach and a relaxed seafood dinner in Jimbaran Bay (walking dinner on the sand from ~$25–$60 per couple). Map: Jimbaran Bay.
- Early night recommended — save energy for Ubud and the interior days.
Tip: Start slow — arrival day is for resetting your clock and soaking in the first Balinese sunset.
Day 2 — Uluwatu cliffs & cultural evening
Morning — Choose one
- Option A: Visit Uluwatu Temple (entry ≈ $2–$3) and walk the clifftop paths.
- Option B: Relax at Padang Padang or Bingin Beach — swim or watch surfers (beach access small fee or free).
Afternoon — Choose one
- Option A: Lunch at a seaside café and a short nap at a beach club.
- Option B: Short yoga session followed by a light spa treatment (60 min massage ≈ $10–$30).
Evening
- Attend the famous Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu at sunset (~$7–$12 including seat). A cultural highlight that pairs dramatic cliff views with ritual chanting.
Tip: Bring a light jacket; evenings on the cliffs can get breezy.
Day 3 — Transfer to Ubud: Culture, Markets & Quiet Trails
Morning
- Travel to Ubud (private transfer ~$35–$60 from south Bali). Check-in and settle.
- Visit the Ubud Palace & Market — browse crafts and textiles (shopping flexible; small purchases from $2–$20).
Afternoon — Choose one
- Option A: Walk the Campuhan Ridge Walk (free) and enjoy calm rice-valley views.
- Option B: Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest (entry ≈ $3–$5) — gentle wildlife and shaded paths.
Evening — Choose one
- Option A: Attend a classical Balinese dance at Ubud Palace (tickets ≈ $5–$10).
- Option B: Quiet dinner overlooking a rice terrace — pick a restaurant with sunset views and local cuisine.
Ubud focus: Ubud is the core for things to do in Ubud Bali Indonesia — allow time to wander slowly, visit galleries, and enjoy low-key performances.
Day 4 — Rice terraces & easy adventure (waterfalls or river)
Morning — Choose one
- Option A: Tegallalang Rice Terraces (entry donation ≈ $1–$3). Walk the rim trails and stop at a terrace café for tea.
- Option B: Visit Tegenungan Waterfall for a refreshing swim (entry ≈ $2).
Afternoon — Choose one
- Option A: White-water rafting on the Ayung River (guided trips ≈ $30–$50 including lunch and transfers) for a moderate adrenaline hit.
- Option B: A calm cooking class in Ubud — learn Balinese recipes and eat what you make (≈ $25–$45).
Evening
- Relax with a traditional Balinese massage and early evening stroll through Ubud’s quieter lanes.
Day 5 — Mount Batur sunrise or Nusa Penida day trip (choose your pace)
Option 1: Mount Batur sunrise trek
- Early pickup (2–3 AM), guided sunrise trek up Mount Batur (group tours ≈ $40–$60 including breakfast and transfers).
- After descent, soak in nearby hot springs (Toya Devasya or similar, ≈ $10–$20).
- Afternoon: gentle recovery — light lunch and a nap or a soft walk in Ubud.
Option 2: Nusa Penida island day trip
- Take a fast boat from Sanur (~$20–$30 RT); full-day guided tours to Kelingking, Angel’s Billabong, and Crystal Bay run ~$50–$80 including boat and lunch.
- Ideal if you prefer dramatic coastal views and snorkel stops over an early-morning hike.
Decision guide: Choose Mount Batur if you enjoy shared, memorable physical challenges; pick Nusa Penida if you prefer coastal vistas and snorkeling without an early wake-up (but expect a full day on the boat).
Day 6 — South coast or relaxed Canggu day
Morning — Choose one
- Option A: Move toward Canggu for surf lessons (~$20–$30 for 1–2 hours with board) and café culture.
- Option B: Explore southern beaches you haven’t seen: Balangan, Bingin or Dreamland — quieter stretches and local beachside cafés.
Afternoon — Choose one
- Option A: Visit Tanah Lot Temple for late-afternoon photos and shrine views (entry ≈ $3–$5). Tanah Lot.
- Option B: Book a sunset sail or catamaran cruise from Benoa (prices vary from ~$40–$100 depending on inclusions).
Evening
- Sunset cocktails at a laid-back rooftop or beach bar, followed by dinner at a relaxed restaurant in Canggu or Seminyak.
Day 7 — Slow morning & romantic send-off
Morning — Choose one
- Option A: Gentle yoga class and healthy brunch (Ubud or Canggu; classes ≈ $6–$12).
- Option B: Short local market visit for last-minute souvenirs and snacks.
Afternoon
- Pack and enjoy a late lunch with a view or a final walk on the beach.
Evening — Romantic finish
- Option A: Private beachfront dinner or terrace dinner overlooking rice terraces (private dinner experiences ≈ $50–$150 depending on customization).
- Option B: Sunset at Tanah Lot or a quiet seaside bar, then transfer to the airport for departure.
Tip: Allow extra time for traffic when traveling back to Denpasar airport — factor in 1–2 hours depending on your final location.
Extra suggestions & alternatives (for flexible travelers)
- Surf-focused add-on: Stay longer in Canggu for multiple lessons and local surf culture immersion.
- Diving & snorkeling: Consider a multi-day trip to Pemuteran or Amed for reef diving (certified dives ~$40–$80 per dive).
- Island hopping: Add Nusa Lembongan for a quieter island escape (boat ≈ $20–$40 RT).
- Slow cultural days: Spend extra time in Ubud visiting small artist studios and slower café culture — this suits 30+ travelers who prefer depth over speed.
Practical costs & budgeting (approximate)
- Daily meals (mid-range): $15–$35 per person.
- Private driver for a full day: $40–$60 (can be split by 2–4 people).
- Popular tours & experiences (range): Mount Batur trek $40–$60; Nusa Penida day tour $50–$80; White-water rafting $30–$50.
- Scooter rental (optional): $5–$10/day — only if comfortable riding.
Respectful travel & cultural notes
- Dress modestly when entering temples; many sites provide sarongs and sashes for a small fee or donation.
- Support local guides and artisans — small tips and purchases make a difference in community economies.
- Plastic reduction: many locations encourage reusable water bottles; bring one and refill at trusted spots.