Bali Travel Guide for First Timers – Everything You Need to Know

I still remember my first time in Bali three years ago. I landed at Ngurah Rai Airport with a backpack, a rough plan, and honestly, no idea what I was doing. I’d seen the Instagram photos – infinity pools overlooking rice terraces, temple gates, beach clubs. But actually being there? That’s a different story.

Bali isn’t just one thing. It’s surf beaches and ancient temples. It’s yoga retreats and party clubs. It’s cheap street food and expensive brunch spots. It’s crowds and quiet corners. And for first-timers, it can be overwhelming.

After three separate trips to Bali and making pretty much every rookie mistake possible, I’m sharing everything I wish someone had told me before my first visit. This isn’t a generic guide. This is real, practical advice that’ll save you time, money, and frustration.

Let’s get into it.

Understanding Bali – The Basics

Bali is an island in Indonesia. Sounds obvious, but I’ve met people who thought it was a country. It’s one of 17,000+ islands in Indonesia, located between Java and Lombok.

Population: About 4.3 million people
Religion: Predominantly Hindu (unlike the rest of Muslim-majority Indonesia)
Language: Bahasa Indonesia, but English widely spoken in tourist areas
Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
Size: Small! About 145km x 80km – you can drive across in a few hours

The weather: Tropical. Two seasons – dry (April to October) and wet (November to March). But honestly, even “wet season” means short afternoon showers, not all-day rain.

Different areas have different vibes – and this is crucial. Choosing the wrong base ruins your trip.

Breaking Down Bali’s Main Areas

Seminyak – The Trendy One

Vibe: Upscale, beach clubs, cafes, shopping, nightlife
Best for: Couples, foodies, beach lovers, party people
Budget: $$$ (expensive by Bali standards)

Seminyak is where you’ll find beach clubs with infinity pools, hipster cafes serving acai bowls, boutique shops, and decent nightlife. The beach is wide, great for sunsets, okay for swimming.

I stayed here on my second trip. Loved the food scene – so many good restaurants. But it’s pricey and a bit pretentious. Everyone’s trying to look Instagram-perfect.

Who should stay here: If you want modern Bali with good food, beach vibes, and don’t mind spending money. Not authentic but definitely fun.

Canggu – The Hipster Surfer Town

Vibe: Surfer, digital nomad, laid-back, rice fields + beaches
Best for: Surfers, yoga people, digital nomads, 20s-30s crowd
Budget: $ to $

Canggu was a sleepy surf village. Now it’s exploded with coworking spaces, vegan cafes, tattoo shops, and beach clubs. Still more laid-back than Seminyak but getting crowded.

The surf here is better than Seminyak. Lots of rice fields (for now – they’re developing fast). Strong community feel, especially for digital nomads.

I almost moved here for a month. The vibe is relaxed, the food is good, and there’s always something happening. But traffic is getting bad, and honestly, it’s becoming a bit of a bubble – you can forget you’re in Indonesia.

Who should stay here: Surfers, young travelers, people working remotely, anyone wanting beach + chill + social scene.

Ubud – The Cultural Heart

Vibe: Yoga, temples, rice terraces, art, spiritual, jungle
Best for: Culture seekers, yoga lovers, nature people, older travelers
Budget: $ to $$$

Ubud is inland – no beaches, but surrounded by rice terraces, rivers, and forest. This is traditional Bali. Temples, ceremonies, art galleries, monkey forest, yoga studios everywhere.

My first time in Ubud, I fell in love. It’s green, the air is fresh, and there’s a spiritual energy (yes, I know how that sounds, but it’s real). Amazing food, interesting people, incredible nature.

But it’s humid. Like, your clothes never fully dry humid. And the Monkey Forest monkeys are aggressive – they will steal your stuff.

Who should stay here: Culture and nature lovers, yoga people, anyone wanting “real” Bali, older travelers who aren’t into party scene.

Uluwatu – The Cliff-Side Beauty

Vibe: Dramatic cliffs, surf spots, luxury villas, quieter
Best for: Honeymooners, surfers, people wanting beauty + peace
Budget: $$$ (mostly high-end)

Uluwatu is on the southern tip – limestone cliffs dropping into the ocean, world-class surf breaks, stunning views. Less developed than Seminyak/Canggu, more exclusive feel.

The Uluwatu Temple perched on a cliff is incredible, especially at sunset. Beaches require steep stairs but are beautiful. Lots of high-end resorts.

I spent a few days here and loved how quiet it was. But you need transport – everything is spread out, not walkable.

Who should stay here: People wanting luxury and scenery, serious surfers, honeymooners, anyone escaping crowds.

Sanur – The Quiet Beach Town

Vibe: Relaxed, family-friendly, quiet, older crowd
Best for: Families, older travelers, people wanting calm
Budget: $$ (good value)

Sanur is the quiet alternative to Seminyak. Long beach with calm water, sunrise views, slower pace. Popular with expats and older travelers.

Honestly, it’s a bit boring for younger travelers. Not much nightlife, not many young people. But if you want peaceful Bali with a beach, this works.

Who should stay here: Families with kids, older travelers, anyone wanting relaxation over excitement.

Nusa Dua – The Resort Area

Vibe: Gated resorts, private beaches, manicured, artificial
Best for: Luxury travelers wanting all-inclusive
Budget: $$$$ (most expensive)

Nusa Dua is where big international chains built resort complexes. Pristine beaches, perfect lawns, security gates. It feels more like Dubai than Bali.

I’ve only visited, never stayed. It’s beautiful but sterile. You’re insulated from real Bali – which some people want.

Who should stay here: Families wanting safety and predictability, luxury travelers wanting five-star experience, people who’ve been to Bali before and want pure relaxation.

My Honest Recommendations

First time, 7-10 days, want variety: Split your time. 3-4 nights Ubud (culture + nature) + 3-4 nights Seminyak or Canggu (beach + food)

Beach lovers on a budget: Canggu or Sanur

Culture and nature focused: Ubud (consider day trips to beaches)

Honeymooners with budget: Ubud for romance + Uluwatu for luxury

Party people: Seminyak

Digital nomads: Canggu

Families with kids: Sanur or Nusa Dua

I always recommend splitting your time. Bali’s small enough that you can experience different areas without wasting days in transit.

How Much Does Bali Actually Cost?

This is the question everyone asks. The answer: it depends massively on your travel style.

Budget Breakdown (Per Day, Per Person)

Shoestring Budget: $25-40/day

• Accommodation: $8-15 (hostel dorm or very basic guesthouse)
• Food: $10-15 (local warungs, street food, occasional western meal)
• Transport: $3-5 (scooter rental)
• Activities: $5-10 (temples, beaches, hiking)

Mid-Range Budget: $60-100/day

• Accommodation: $30-50 (decent hotel or nice Airbnb)
• Food: $25-35 (mix of local and western restaurants)
• Transport: $10-15 (scooter + occasional Grab)
• Activities: $15-25 (tours, entrance fees, beach clubs)

Comfortable Budget: $150-250/day

• Accommodation: $80-150 (boutique hotel or villa)
• Food: $50-70 (good restaurants, beach clubs, cafes)
• Transport: $20-30 (driver when needed, Grab)
• Activities: $30-50 (multiple activities, spa, diving)

Luxury: $300+/day

• Accommodation: $200+ (high-end resort or private villa)
• Food: $80+ (fine dining, beach clubs)
• Transport: $40+ (private driver)
• Activities: Whatever you want

My experience: I spent about $70/day on my first trip (mid-range). Stayed in nice-ish places, ate well, did activities, rented a scooter. Could’ve gone cheaper by eating more local food and skipping expensive beach clubs.

Specific Costs to Know

Scooter rental: $5-7/day
Grab (like Uber): $2-5 for short rides
Private driver full day: $40-60
Temple entrance: $1-3 usually
Massage: $10-15 for 60 minutes
Beach club day pass: $15-40 depending on place
Surf lesson: $25-40
Diving: $60-100 per dive
Nusa Penida day tour: $35-50
Decent dinner: $8-15 per person
Beer: $2-3 at local places, $6-8 at beach clubs
Nasi Goreng (fried rice): $2-3
Coffee: $2-4

Money-saving tips:

• Eat at local warungs (small family-run restaurants) – food is delicious and cheap
• Rent a scooter instead of using taxis everywhere
• Stay slightly outside main tourist areas
• Beach clubs are expensive – go for sunset, buy one drink, enjoy the view
• Many temples are free or very cheap
• Negotiate prices for tours and transport

Splurge-worthy experiences:

• At least one nice dinner
• A good massage or spa day
• One beach club experience
• Quality diving or surf lesson

The Perfect First-Timer Itinerary (7 Days)

This is what I’d do if I could redo my first Bali trip:

Day 1: Arrival + Seminyak

Morning/Afternoon: Land, get SIM card at airport, grab Grab to Seminyak
Evening: Chill at beach, watch sunset, easy dinner
Sleep in: Seminyak

Jet lag is real. Don’t pack Day 1. Just arrive, settle in, get your bearings.

Day 2: Seminyak Exploration

Morning: Sleep in, beach walk, breakfast at cafe
Afternoon: Tanah Lot Temple (hire driver or scooter – 1 hour)
Evening: Sunset at Tanah Lot, dinner in Seminyak
Sleep in: Seminyak

Tanah Lot is iconic – temple on a rock in the ocean. Touristy but beautiful, especially at sunset. Gets crowded, so either go early or accept the crowds.

Day 3: Beach Club + Uluwatu

Morning: Relax, maybe beach club if you’re keen
Afternoon: Drive to Uluwatu (1 hour)
Evening: Uluwatu Temple at sunset + Kecak Fire Dance (book tickets)
Sleep in: Seminyak

Uluwatu Temple on cliff edge is stunning. The Kecak dance is traditional performance at sunset – touristy but actually impressive. Gets packed, arrive 30 mins early for good seats.

Day 4: Transfer to Ubud + Explore

Morning: Check out, drive to Ubud (1.5 hours)
Afternoon: Check in, lunch, explore Ubud center – market, palace, walk around
Evening: Dinner, maybe evening ceremony if lucky
Sleep in: Ubud

The drive from Seminyak to Ubud is scenic. Don’t rush it. Stop if you see something interesting.

Day 5: Ubud’s Greatest Hits

Morning: Sunrise at Tegallalang Rice Terraces (get there by 6-7 AM to beat crowds)
Late Morning: Coffee plantation tour nearby (free usually)
Afternoon: Monkey Forest (fun but watch your belongings!)
Evening: Traditional dance performance at palace
Sleep in: Ubud

This is a packed day. The rice terraces are beautiful early morning – misty, quiet, magical. Later it’s packed with Instagram tourists. The swing there costs $20-35 – your call if worth it.

Day 6: Ubud Nature

Morning: Campuhan Ridge Walk (free, beautiful, easy 2-hour walk)
Afternoon: Tegenungan Waterfall or Tibumana Waterfall
Evening: Yoga class, spa/massage, chill dinner
Sleep in: Ubud

Take it easier today. The ridge walk is lovely – starts right in Ubud, through rice fields and hills. Waterfalls are nice but expect crowds and vendors.

Day 7: Day Trip or Departure

Option A (early flight): Morning at leisure, fly out
Option B (later flight): Nusa Penida day tour (long day but incredible), evening flight
Option C (staying longer): Nusa Penida or just relax in Ubud

Nusa Penida is stunning – dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches. But it’s a full day – early start, boat ride, driving around a rough island. Worth it if you have energy and time.

Alternative 10-Day Itinerary

Add:

• 2 nights in Canggu (between Seminyak and Ubud sections)
• Full day Nusa Penida trip
• Extra day in Ubud for activities you missed
• Mount Batur sunrise trek

Things First-Timers Must Do

1. Watch sunset from a beach or cliff – Uluwatu, Tanah Lot, or any west-facing beach

2. Visit rice terraces – Tegallalang near Ubud or Jatiluwih (less crowded)

3. See a temple – Uluwatu, Tanah Lot, Besakih, or just stumble upon local ones

4. Get a massage – Seriously cheap and good. Do it multiple times.

5. Eat at local warungs – Real Balinese food, not tourist food

6. Rent a scooter – Freedom to explore (if you’re comfortable riding)

7. Try a beach club – At least once for the Bali experience

8. Attend a ceremony – If you’re lucky to see one. Ask locals or your hotel.

9. Visit a waterfall – Bali has dozens. Pick any that’s not mega-touristy.

10. Walk through rice fields – Best thing in Bali is just walking through villages and fields

Things You Can Skip (Controversial Opinions)

Monkey Forest: Monkeys are aggressive, will steal stuff, bite people. It’s okay but not must-see.

Expensive swings: Those Insta-famous swings at rice terraces cost $20-35. You’re literally paying for a photo op.

Gili Islands: Everyone adds Gili Islands to Bali trip. They’re in Lombok, not Bali. Long journey. If you have time, sure. But not essential for first trip.

Shopping: Bali’s markets sell mostly tourist tat. If you want souvenirs, fine. But don’t waste days shopping.

Kuta: Kuta is where tourists partied in the 80s-90s. Now it’s crowded, tacky, and not worth visiting unless you’re staying near airport.

Essential Practical Information

Visa Situation (2025)

Indians get: Visa on Arrival (VoA) – 30 days, extendable once for another 30 days
Cost: $35 USD (pay on arrival, card or cash)
Process: Easy. Fill form on plane, land, pay fee, get stamp.
Requirement: Passport valid 6 months, return ticket

Visa-free for 30 days for some nationalities, but Indians need VoA. It’s simple, don’t stress.

Money Matters

Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
Conversion: 1 USD = approx 15,500 IDR (changes, check current rate)
Indian Rupees: Not accepted. Convert to USD/EUR before, or withdraw IDR in Bali.

ATMs: Everywhere in tourist areas. Use ATMs at banks (BCA, Mandiri) not random machines – better rates, more reliable.

Cards: Widely accepted in tourist areas. Small warungs and villages prefer cash.

Tip: Withdraw larger amounts less frequently – ATM fees add up ($5-7 per transaction).

Bargaining: Expected at markets. Not at restaurants or established shops. Aim for 40-50% off initial price.

Getting Around

Scooter: Cheapest, most flexible. $5-7/day. Need international driving license technically (most people don’t have, but police check sometimes – bribe $10-20). Helmets mandatory.

Safety: Bali traffic is chaotic. If you’re not confident on scooters, don’t. Accidents happen frequently.

Grab: Like Uber. Cheap for short distances. Not available everywhere.

Gojek: Local version of Grab. Even cheaper.

Private driver: $40-60 full day. Good for day trips where you want to relax.

Taxis: Blue Bird taxis are trustworthy. Others might not use meter.

My setup: I rented scooter in Ubud and Canggu (easy traffic, short distances). Used Grab in Seminyak (busier, more stressful on scooter).

Phone & Internet

Buy SIM card at airport: Telkomsel is biggest provider. Around $5-10 for 5-10GB. Lasts a week easily.

WiFi: Most accommodations and cafes have decent WiFi.

Important: Download Google Maps offline. Grab app. WhatsApp for local contacts.

Safety & Scams

Bali is generally safe, but:

Common scams:

• Money changers giving wrong amount – count carefully, use official ones
• Fake tickets for boat to Gili/Nusa Penida – book through hotel or reputable company
• Taxi drivers without meter – always ask “pakai argo?” (use meter?) or use Grab
• Petrol scam – scooter rental places claim you need to return with full tank, but give you less. Take photo of fuel gauge at pickup.
• Temple “guides” who demand payment after – if you want guide, agree price first
• Police asking for bribes – usually for no helmet or no license. Stay calm, often they just want small bribe ($10-20).

Real dangers:

• Scooter accidents – biggest danger in Bali. Wear helmet, drive carefully, get insurance.
• Drinking tap water – don’t. Brush teeth with bottled water too.
• Bali belly – food poisoning common. Eat at clean places, maybe skip ice in drinks.
• Dogs – Bali has many stray dogs. Usually harmless but can carry rabies. Don’t pet them.
• Ocean – currents can be strong. Not all beaches are safe for swimming. Ask locals.

Be careful with:

• Valuables on beach – someone watching your stuff or hide it
• Walking alone late at night in quiet areas
• Getting too drunk – alcohol is strong, stay aware
• Drugs – seriously illegal, severe penalties including death. Don’t.

What to Pack

Essential:

• Sunscreen (reef-safe if diving/snorkeling)
• Mosquito repellent (dengue exists)
• Light, breathable clothes
• Modest outfit for temples (covered shoulders, below knee)
• Swimwear
• Flip-flops + comfortable walking shoes
• Light rain jacket
• Sarong (useful for temples, beaches, everything)
• Basic medical kit
• Power adapter (European plug, type C/F)

Don’t overpack: You can buy cheap clothes there. Laundry is cheap ($1-2 per kg).

Temple dress code: Covered shoulders, no short shorts/skirts. Many temples provide sarongs to rent/free.

Food & Eating

Must-try dishes:

• Nasi Goreng: Fried rice – Indonesian staple
• Mie Goreng: Fried noodles
• Satay: Grilled meat skewers with peanut sauce
• Nasi Campur: Mixed rice with various toppings
• Babi Guling: Balinese roast pork (specialty)
• Gado-Gado: Vegetable salad with peanut sauce
• Soto Ayam: Chicken soup
• Fresh fruit: Mango, mangosteen, dragon fruit, rambutan

Where to eat:

• Warungs: Local restaurants, cheap and authentic
• Cafes: Western-style brunch spots (Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud full of these)
• Beach clubs: Expensive but experience
• Hotel restaurants: Usually overpriced
• Street food: Delicious but might upset stomach if not careful

Dietary restrictions:

• Vegetarian: Easy! Lots of options. Say “saya vegetarian” (I’m vegetarian)
• Vegan: Growing scene, especially Canggu and Ubud
• Allergies: Communication can be tricky. Write it down in Indonesian to show.

Food safety:

• Avoid tap water (including ice in sketchy places)
• Eat at busy places (high turnover = fresh food)
• Peel fruit yourself
• Be cautious with raw vegetables
• Bring stomach medicine just in case

My favorites:

• Breakfast at cafe with good coffee
• Lunch at local warung (Nasi Campur for $2-3)
• Sunset drinks at beach
• Dinner exploring different restaurants

Cultural Etiquette

Do:

• Dress modestly at temples
• Remove shoes before entering homes/temples
• Use right hand for eating/giving (left considered unclean)
• Smile and be friendly
• Learn basic Indonesian phrases (appreciated)
• Be respectful during ceremonies
• Cover up outside beaches/tourist areas
• Ask before taking photos of ceremonies

Don’t:

• Touch people’s heads (sacred in Balinese culture)
• Point with your finger (use whole hand)
• Show anger publicly (Balinese value calm)
• Step on offerings (those small palm leaf boxes everywhere)
• Wear shoes in temples
• Touch monks or temple priests
• Be loud and disrespectful
• Climb on sacred structures for photos

Useful phrases:

• Hello: “Halo” or “Om Swastiastu” (Balinese greeting)
• Thank you: “Terima kasih”
• Excuse me: “Permisi”
• How much?: “Berapa?”
• Delicious: “Enak”
• Yes/No: “Ya/Tidak”

Ceremony culture: Bali has ceremonies constantly – temple festivals, cremations, tooth filings, weddings. If you see one, you can usually watch respectfully from the side. Don’t walk through the ceremony. Dress appropriately.

Day Trips from Main Areas

From Ubud

1. Mount Batur Sunrise Trek

• Time: Start 2 AM, back by noon
• Cost: $35-50
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Worth it? Yes! Watching sunrise above clouds is incredible. Cold at top (bring jacket). Breakfast cooked on volcanic steam.

2. Tegallalang Rice Terraces + Waterfalls

• Time: Half day
• Cost: $5-10 entrance fees
• Worth it? Tegallalang yes (go early!). Tegenungan waterfall okay, Tibumana better.

3. Tirta Empul Water Temple

• Time: 2-3 hours
• Cost: $2 entrance
• Worth it? Yes. Holy spring temple where locals do purification rituals. You can join (bring sarong, modest clothes).

From Seminyak/Canggu

1. Tanah Lot Temple

• Time: 2-3 hours
• Cost: $3 entrance
• Worth it? For sunset yes. Morning is quieter. Temple on rock in ocean – iconic.

2. Uluwatu

• Time: Half day
• Cost: $3 temple + $5-10 Kecak dance
• Worth it? Absolutely. Cliff temple, dramatic, sunset views, cultural performance.

3. Nusa Penida Day Trip

• Time: Full day (12+ hours)
• Cost: $35-60 for tour
• Worth it? Yes, but exhausting. Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach – all stunning. Very Instagram-famous now.

4. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

• Time: Half day
• Cost: $3-5 entrance
• Worth it? If you want less crowded terraces than Tegallalang. UNESCO site, more authentic, but further drive.

Best Activities for First-Timers

Water Activities

1. Surfing

• Where: Canggu (beginners), Uluwatu (advanced), Padang Padang, Kuta
• Cost: Lesson $25-40, board rental $5-10/day
• Level: All levels
• Bali has great surf. Canggu is perfect for learning – gentle waves, lots of schools.

2. Diving

• Where: Tulamben (USS Liberty wreck), Amed, Nusa Penida (manta rays)
• Cost: $60-100 per dive
• Level: Need certification or do intro dive
• Bali diving is good, not world-class. But convenient and affordable.

3. Snorkeling

• Where: Amed, Blue Lagoon, Nusa Penida
• Cost: $20-40 for trips
• Easier than diving, still see good marine life.

Land Activities

1. Ubud Swing

• Where: Near Tegallalang rice terraces
• Cost: $20-35
• Worth it? If you want Instagram photo, sure. It’s literally just a swing though.

2. ATV Riding

• Where: Multiple locations around Ubud
• Cost: $30-50
• Through rice fields, jungle, rivers. Fun but touristy.

3. Yoga

• Where: Everywhere, especially Ubud and Canggu
• Cost: $10-20 drop-in class
• Bali has incredible yoga scene. The Yoga Barn in Ubud is famous.

4. Cooking Class

• Where: Ubud mainly
• Cost: $30-50
• Learn to cook Indonesian dishes. Usually includes market visit.

Relaxation

1. Spa & Massage

• Where: Everywhere
• Cost: $10-15 for hour massage, $30-100 for spa packages
• Cheap and good. Even basic massages are decent. Splurge on a nice spa at least once.

2. Beach Clubs

• Where: Seminyak (Potato Head, Ku De Ta), Canggu (Finn’s, La Brisa), Uluwatu (Single Fin)
• Cost: $15-40 minimum spend usually
• Infinity pools, sunbeds, cocktails, sunset. Very Bali experience.

Common First-Timer Mistakes

1. Staying in one area only Bali’s small – explore different vibes. Don’t spend all week in Seminyak or just Ubud.

2. Only eating at western restaurants You’re in Indonesia! Eat local food. It’s delicious and 1/4 the price.

3. Arriving with no rupiah ATMs at airport have lines. Get some cash before if possible, or budget time after landing.

4. Overpacking itinerary Bali is about chilling too. Don’t schedule every hour. Leave room for spontaneity.

5. Not bringing sunscreen Sun is intense. You will burn. Bring reef-safe sunscreen (better for marine life).

6. Booking everything in advance Accommodation and flights yes. But leave flexibility for activities – book day before or morning of.

7. Trusting everyone Most Balinese are lovely. Some see you as ATM. Healthy skepticism helps.

8. Drinking too much cheap alcohol Arak (local spirit) poisoning happens. Stick to beer, sealed bottles, or known bars.

9. Not getting insurance Scooter accidents, food poisoning, theft – get travel insurance that covers these.

10. Expecting pristine paradise Bali is beautiful but also developed, crowded (in spots), and has issues like trash and traffic. Manage expectations.

Weather & When to Visit

Best time: April to October (dry season)
Peak season: July-August, December-January (expect crowds, higher prices)
Shoulder season: April-June, September-October (ideal – good weather, fewer people)
Wet season: November-March (still visit-able, afternoon showers, greener, cheaper)

My recommendation: May, June, or September. Perfect weather, not too crowded, reasonable prices.

What about wet season? I’ve been in November. It rained most afternoons for 1-2 hours, then stopped. Still warm. Still enjoyable. Just plan indoor activities for afternoons. Upside: fewer tourists, lower prices, lush landscapes.

Budget Recommendations by Length

3 days, $200-400 total:

• Base in Seminyak or Ubud only
• Focus on one area deeply
• Skip expensive tours

7 days, $500-900 total:

• Split Seminyak + Ubud
• Few day trips
• Mix local and tourist food
• Rent scooter

10 days, $800-1,500 total:

• Add Canggu or Uluwatu
• More activities (surfing, diving, trekking)
• Nusa Penida day trip
• Allow more splurges

2 weeks, $1,200-2,500 total:

• Cover most areas
• Include Nusa Lembongan or Gili Islands
• More relaxation time
• Balance budget and splurge

These are mid-range budgets. Can go cheaper or more expensive based on choices.

Accommodation Tips

Book in advance: First and last night at least. Rest can be flexible.

Areas ranked by price:

1. Nusa Dua (most expensive)
2. Seminyak
3. Uluwatu 4.# Bali Travel Guide for First Timers – Everything You Need to Know (2025)

Frequently Asked Questions