When I think back to my 7 Days in Bali, it feels like one long, colorful blur of beaches, rice terraces, scooters, and nasi goreng. If you're planning your own trip and wondering how to make the most of seven days in Bali, you're in for a treat. There's no shortage of things to do, but narrowing it all down can feel overwhelming. So, here’s a breakdown of what I learned from my time there, complete with missteps, surprises, and the must-dos.
Day 1: Arrival and Settling into Ubud
Your first day in Bali is about easing into the vibe. If you're anything like me, the jet lag will hit like a ton of bricks, so don't overplan. I stayed in Ubud, which is kind of like the heart of Bali. It’s not right on the beach, but it’s surrounded by jungle, rice paddies, and yoga retreats.
If your accommodation offers airport pickup, take it. Navigating Ngurah Rai International Airport after a long flight is... an adventure, and not necessarily the fun kind.
Read also: Scenic hiking trails in Bali
Once I dropped my bags, I wandered around Ubud’s town center. The Ubud Market is perfect for grabbing cheap souvenirs and soaking up the atmosphere. Heads up, though: the vendors are pros at bargaining, so be prepared to haggle. It’s part of the culture, but I’ll admit, I was terrible at it at first.
For dinner, hit up one of the many warungs (small, family-run restaurants). I fell in love with a place called Warung Biah Biah. It's affordable, cozy, and serves killer Balinese dishes like mie goreng and bebek betutu (that’s slow-cooked duck, and yes, it’s as good as it sounds).
Day 2: Temples and Waterfalls
Bali is famous for its temples, and Ubud is a great base to explore some of the most iconic ones. Start your morning at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Yes, there are monkeys everywhere. Yes, they will try to steal your stuff. Don’t bring plastic bags unless you want a furry friend rummaging through them.
Afterward, head to Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave. It's a quick stop, but the intricate carvings and serene vibe make it worth it.
Then, there are the waterfalls. Tegenungan Waterfall is close to Ubud and pretty easy to get to, even if you’re not a hardcore hiker. I made the mistake of going at midday, and it was packed. Early morning or late afternoon is a better bet if you want that Instagram-worthy shot without 50 other people in the background.
Day 3: Rice Terraces and Swinging into Adventure
You can’t talk about Bali without mentioning the Tegalalang Rice Terraces. They’re as stunning as they look in photos, but here’s the thing: they’re also steep and muddy. Wear shoes you don’t mind getting dirty, and don’t skip the coconut stalls on the way up. I swear coconuts taste better in Bali.
Nearby, you’ll find those famous Bali swings. They’re definitely touristy, but I couldn’t resist. There’s something oddly freeing about swinging over the jungle, even if part of you knows the whole thing is set up for Instagram.
Day 4: Exploring Canggu
Canggu is the place to go if you’re into surfing, beach vibes, and café culture. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Ubud, depending on traffic (which, by the way, is wild in Bali). I didn’t try surfing because I have the balance of a baby giraffe, but the beaches here are perfect for just chilling out. Batu Bolong Beach is a favorite.
The food in Canggu? Unreal. There’s everything from smoothie bowls to wood-fired pizza. Crate Café and The Shady Shack were two of my favorite spots. And yes, I did eat a smoothie bowl just for the aesthetic.
Day 5: Uluwatu and Beaches
If you’re a beach bum, Uluwatu is where you want to be. The cliffs here are unreal, and the beaches are more secluded compared to Canggu or Seminyak. Padang Padang Beach was my favorite. It’s a bit of a climb to get down, but it feels like a hidden cove straight out of a movie.
Uluwatu Temple is another must-see. Stick around for the Kecak Fire Dance at sunset. It’s a little touristy, but the chanting and the fire performance are mesmerizing. Just keep an eye on your belongings because, yep, more monkeys.
Day 6: Seminyak for Shopping and Nightlife
Seminyak is all about shopping, spas, and nightlife. If you want to splurge on a massage, this is the place. I spent an embarrassing amount of time (and money) at Bodyworks, but it was 100% worth it.
For shopping, head to Jalan Kayu Aya. The boutiques are pricier than what you’ll find in Ubud or Canggu, but the quality is higher too. I picked up a handmade leather bag that I still use to this day.
As for nightlife, Potato Head Beach Club is iconic. Even if you’re not into the party scene, the sunset views are insane. Just know it gets packed, so show up early if you want a good spot.
Day 7: A Relaxing Goodbye
For your last day, slow down. Bali can feel like a whirlwind, so take some time to reflect. I spent my final morning at a yoga class in Ubud, followed by a leisurely brunch at Alchemy, a raw food café.
If you have a late flight, consider a day pass at one of the beach clubs near the airport, like Sundays Beach Club. It’s a luxurious way to end your trip, and you won’t feel rushed heading to the airport.
Seven days in Bali isn’t enough to see it all, but it’s enough to fall in love with the island. Whether you’re into adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, there’s something for everyone. Just don’t forget to pack sunscreen. Trust me on this one.
Bali Transportation Tips: Scooters, Taxis, and Chaos
Okay, we need to talk about transportation in Bali. Getting around is part of the adventure—and sometimes part of the frustration. The most popular way to explore is by scooter, but let me tell you, Bali traffic isn’t for the faint of heart. Scooters weave in and out of cars, there are no clear lanes, and intersections can feel like a free-for-all.
I rented a scooter for a couple of days, and while it was super fun zipping through rice fields, there were moments when I was sure I was going to tip over. If you’re not comfortable driving one, don’t stress. Grab taxis or use apps like Grab and Gojek (kind of like Uber). They’re affordable and safer for longer trips.
One little hack: Always negotiate prices with local taxi drivers before hopping in. Otherwise, you might get hit with a "tourist fee" that feels... let’s just say steep.
Food in Bali: More Than Just Instagram
Bali’s food scene is out of this world. And while Instagram makes it seem like smoothie bowls and avocado toast are everywhere (they kind of are), don’t miss the local dishes. Seriously, you haven’t lived until you’ve had babi guling (suckling pig) at a traditional warung. I tried it at Ibu Oka in Ubud, and let’s just say, I was rethinking all my previous life choices regarding pork.
Another standout meal was satay lilit, which is minced fish on a stick, grilled to smoky perfection. Pair it with sambal matah, a spicy raw shallot sauce, and you’ve got a flavor explosion.
Also, don’t skip dessert. Balinese desserts are understated but delicious. Dadar gulung—a green pandan pancake filled with sweet coconut—is like a little bite of tropical heaven.
Oh, and a quick note about Bali coffee: It’s strong, unfiltered, and served with the grounds sitting at the bottom of the cup. Stir lightly unless you enjoy chewing your caffeine.
Things Nobody Warns You About in Bali
Here’s where I spill the tea about stuff that caught me off guard.
- The humidity: It’s next-level sticky. You’ll step outside, and within five minutes, you’ll feel like a damp sponge. Lightweight, breathable clothing is your best friend. And bring a reusable water bottle—hydration is key.
- Dogs everywhere: Bali is full of free-roaming dogs. Most are friendly, but don’t get too close to any that look unwell. Rabies is a thing here, and it’s better to be cautious.
- Cultural etiquette: Balinese people are incredibly kind, and respecting their culture goes a long way. For example, always wear a sarong when visiting temples. Some places will provide them, but I bought my own as a souvenir, and it came in handy multiple times.
- Canang sari offerings: These little woven baskets with flowers and incense are placed everywhere—on sidewalks, at doorways, on scooter dashboards. They’re part of daily Balinese Hindu rituals, so be careful not to step on them accidentally.
Bali on a Budget vs. Splurge-Worthy Experiences
You can easily enjoy Bali on a shoestring budget, but there are also plenty of ways to treat yourself. During my trip, I tried a mix of both.
On the budget side:
- Warungs for meals (you can eat for $2–$5 per person).
- Homestays and guesthouses. They’re not fancy, but the hospitality is unmatched. I stayed in one where the host brought me homemade banana pancakes every morning. Bless her soul.
For splurges:
- I spent one night at a luxury villa in Ubud with a private infinity pool overlooking the jungle. It cost $200, which felt like a fortune compared to my $25 guesthouse, but it was worth every penny.
- A traditional Balinese massage. At $20 for a full hour, it still felt like a bargain.
Unexpected Highlights
Let me tell you about one of the coolest, most unexpected experiences I had: a sunrise trek up Mount Batur. This volcano hike is popular, and for good reason. You wake up at an ungodly hour (we’re talking 2 a.m.), drive to the base, and start hiking with a guide under the stars. It’s not the easiest trek—think steep inclines and loose volcanic gravel—but the views from the summit at sunrise? Breathtaking doesn’t even begin to cover it.
I remember sitting at the top, sipping hot tea while clouds rolled through the valley below. It was one of those rare moments where time seems to stand still.
Bring a jacket! Even though Bali is warm, it gets chilly at the summit before the sun comes up.
Souvenirs to Bring Home
If you’re anything like me, you’ll leave Bali with more luggage than you arrived with. The markets are filled with temptations: handmade silver jewelry, woven bags, wood carvings, and batik fabrics. I also grabbed some Balinese coffee and lulur (a traditional body scrub made with turmeric and rice) to recreate the spa vibes at home.
Just be mindful of what you’re buying. Avoid anything made with shells, coral, or endangered wood to ensure you’re not contributing to environmental damage.
Why Bali Stays with You
Bali isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of place that lingers in your mind long after you’ve left. Maybe it’s the vibrant culture, the warm people, or the way the sunsets light up the sky in shades you didn’t think were possible.
If you ask me, the magic of Bali lies in the small moments: sharing a laugh with a local vendor, stumbling upon a quiet beach, or sipping araks (local palm liquor) with new friends under the stars. Seven days might not be enough to see everything, but it’s enough to fall in love.
So, pack your bags, bring an open mind, and get ready for one of the most unforgettable weeks of your life.
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