(updated June 2024)
Are you wondering what things to do for 5 days in Ubud, Bali? From exploring ancient temples and art galleries to experiencing traditional dance performances and indulging in delicious cuisine, there are plenty of things to do during your ultimate Ubud itinerary.
If you are looking for things to do for 5 days in Ubud, there are numerous attractions that make it the perfect destination. Visit stunning waterfalls, trek through lush rice terraces, try yoga, or explore the Sacred Monkey Forest. Whether you are seeking relaxation or adventure, Ubud has it all.
Our family explored the best things to see in Ubud, Bali. We made sure to visit the top attractions in Ubud during our trip. Keep reading this Ubud travel guide for a thrilling 5 day Ubud itinerary.
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Where Is Ubud, Bali?
Ubud is located in the central Gianyar District of Bali island. It is approximately an hour from the Ngurah Rai International Airport (also called Denpasar Airport).
Best Time to Visit Ubud, Bali
The best season for a Bali trip is April through August. Although the weather is ideal, you can expect larger crowds at tourist attractions and higher prices for accommodations at this time. Additionally, Bali experiences higher traffic during the November and December holidays. Try to avoid the rainy season in Bali from November to March, if possible.
Ubud Bali Day 1: Arrival in Ubud, Bali
Whew- you made it all the way to Bali! Prior to your arrival, I suggest making arrangements with your resort to transport you from the airport in Denpasar to Ubud. Plan for a drive of approximately one hour.
Take in the views of scattered roadside temples, as you wind through the streets shrouded with trees. Breathe in the scent of incense and feel the warmth of the tropical air on your skin.
Where to Stay in Ubud Bali: Four Seasons Bali, Ubud
Driving along the highway, you wouldn’t know a Ubud world class resort is tucked away just off the main road. For our accommodations, we chose The Four Seasons Resort Bali, at Sayan. As soon as you turn into the property, it is as if you have been transported to a tropical oasis. This resort which has been named, “The World’s Best Hotel”, by Travel and Leisure in 2018, and “Asia’s Leading Hotel”‘ in 2016, lives up to every bit of the hype. The Four Seasons Ubud is a serene escape, adjacent to the rippling Ayung River and surrounded by nature.
The resort amenities here are plentiful and set it apart from others in the vicinity. The Four Seasons Resort boasts luxurious spa and dining options, plus the level of service you would expect from the Four Seasons brand. Complementary morning yoga, a daily shuttle into central Ubud, and concierge services to help coordinate activities, are just a few of the reasons to stay here. Additionally, if you are traveling with children, the “Pici Pici” club will keep the kids entertained while you have a few moments to relax with your partner.
Chances are you will be completely exhausted from your extensive travels, so plan to stay close to your resort for an early sunset dinner on the night of your arrival. We opted to eat overlooking the tree tops at The Ayung Terrace Restaurant on the property.
Ubud Bali Day 2: Rest and Enjoy Your Ubud Bali Villa
Flying all the way to Indonesia is no easy feat. Chances are you will be jet-lagged and fully exhausted on your first day in Indonesia. Take the time to relax and enjoy your resort. We decided to take full advantage of the riverside pool and lounged the day away. Consider booking a Balinese massage to soothe away the tension of your travels. Later that evening, enjoy the solitude and privacy of your private pool villa.
Seeking Stamps Tip : it is HOT, HOT, HOT in Southeast Asia. Chances are the heat will zap your energy, so don’t plan too many activities packed into the day when mapping out your trip.
Read This Post for Restful Tips for Sleeping on Long-Haul Flights Before You Visit Ubud!
Ubud Bali Day 3: Explore Things to Do in Ubud, Bali
Now it’s time to start exploring the highlights of Ubud Bali. Keep reading for the best things to do in your Ubud 5 day itinerary!
Saraswati Temple Ubud (Pura Taman Saraswati)
After a nice long rest, you will probably be ready to explore all that Ubud has to offer. Grab a taxi, scooter (if you dare) or consider hiring a private driver. Drivers are very affordable and allow you the most convenience in getting to all the activities in the vicinity.
Take a short ride to the center of town and get dropped off at the Saraswati Temple (located behind Cafe Lotus and Starbucks). The ornate Hindu temple and lotus pond make a beautiful photo opportunity. Plan to spend about 30 minutes here.
Saraswati Temple Ubud Opening Hours:
- 7:00 am – 5:00 pm
Saraswati Temple Ubud Entrance fee:
- Entrance is free
- Its IDR 100,000/ 6.67 USD to watch the dance performance
Seeking Stamps Cultural Consideration: Remember this is a religious site, so cover knees and shoulders to be respectful.
Visit the Art Market During Your 5 Days in Ubud
Next, take a five minute walk to reach Ubud Art Market. The market is filled with vendors selling artisan wood bowls, woven baskets, purses, clothing, souvenirs, and a variety of trinkets. Plan to spend about an hour at Ubud Market, depending on how much you want to shop.
Ubud Art Market Hours of Operation:
- 10:00 am -5:00 pm daily
- Ubud Art Market Entrance Fee: free
White Water Rafting Down the Ayung River
Later that afternoon, after you have worked up a sweat, you might want to try white water rafting down the Ayung River. When we went, it was relaxing and easy, but that might depend on the current season and rainfall. The Four Seasons will arrange everything for you. Our experience was enjoyable and kid-friendly, but it was tamer than we expected.
For Beautiful Beaches, Snorkeling and More Water Activities, Check Out This Blog Post About Bali Day Trips to Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan.
Dinner at Sayan House
To conclude the first day of your five day Ubud itinerary, go to top-rated Sayan House. It’s the perfect place for a spectacular sunset and tasty Japanese-fusion cuisine. They are open 12- 9:00 pm (last order 8 pm). We tried the King Prawn Jambalaya and highly recommend it. You must also try Nasi Goreng (Indonesian fried rice) when you get the opportunity.
Ubud Bali Day 4: Bali Swing, Tegenungan Waterfall, and Sacred Monkey Forest
Recommended Accommodation: Goya Boutique Resort
If you are looking for a boutique hotel in Ubud, consider Goya Boutique Resort. It is small in size, but bursting with warmth and charm. The two story villa with a private pool provides extra space for a family or group traveling together. The two story concept allows for added privacy. It is a perfect location to quickly reach the top places to visit in Ubud. You will love the inviting Balinese environment. The spectacular infinity pool has a phenomenal view overlooking the jungle and promises colorful sunsets almost every evening.
After a restful sleep, plan for an early departure tomorrow, (to beat the sweltering heat and humidity).
Seeking Stamps Tip: Resorts often double the prices during the holidays. To save money, stay the first few nights in higher end hotels when you plan to use the property amenities. Then, consider switching to a less expensive property when you plan to be occupied outside the resort.
The Real Bali Swing
For your first stop of the day, head to The Real Bali Swing. Prepare to soar over the palm trees, screaming with delight. It is touristy and can be horribly packed with people, but it is also silly and fun (especially if you have children with you). Go early (8 am preferably)! I recommend wearing comfortable shoes for the stairs and uneven pavement. Do yourself a favor and leave the “Instagram flowing dresses” at home- it’s boiling hot here.
There are several different varieties of swings, a helicopter and giant nests for fun photo ops. The entrance price is $35 for the “authentic Bali Swing” but there are several cheaper knock-offs in the area. We went with the higher priced option, because it seemed prudent to go with what seemed to be “the most legitimate” option when being hurdled through the air on a swing of questionable construction. Depending on the wait, one hour is probably plenty of time here.
The Real Bali Swing Hours of Operation:
- 8:00 am- 5:00 pm daily
Cost of the Bali Swing:
- 35 USD/500 IDR per person
- 40 USD (entrance plus transportation)
The Real Bali Swing Restrictions:
- Weight limit 440 lbs
- Ages 5 and older
Seeking Stamps Tip: There is a spot for lunch, but I would advise skipping it and eating closer to the Sacred Monkey Forest.
Read This Article to Stay Cool With My Favorite Travel Dresses for Hot Temperatures!
Tegenungan Waterfall
Next, it’s time to cool off in the refreshing Tegenungan Waterfall. This can be packed and touristy with people taking photos, but it’s beautiful to see the water pouring over from 60 feet above. The area has multiple steps down to the main swimming area, so wear sturdy shoes. There is a place to order ice cold beer or fresh coconuts as you admire the view. Plan to spend about 1-2 hours here.
Make sure to visit Kanto Lampo waterfall, Tukad Cepung Waterfall, Banyumala Twin Waterfall, and Leke Leke waterfall if you have more than 5 days in Ubud.
Tegenungan Waterfall Opening Hours:
- 6:30 am- 6:30 pm
Tegenungan Waterfall Entrance Fee:
- IDR 15,000/ 1 USD Adults
- IDR 10,000/ 0.67 USD Children
Seeking Stamps Tip: The best times to view the waterfall are 9:00 and 3:00 when the sun hits the water. In the rainy season the water may be brown, so don’t visit during that time of year without checking first.
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Once you have dried off a bit, take a 20 minute drive over to The Sacred Monkey Forest. Inside the sanctuary, there are gorgeous temples from the 14th century, ornate sculptures, lush foliage, a Banyan tree that is over a century old, and of course crazy monkeys everywhere. This was one of the highlights of our 5 days in Ubud. It is suggested not to look the monkeys directly in the eye, as it can be interpreted as a sign of aggression. Plan to spend about two hours here.
Sacred Monkey Forest Hours of Operation:
- 9:00 am-6:00 pm daily (ticket office closes at 5:00)
Ubud Monkey Forest Entrance Fee:
Mid week:
- Adult IDR 80
- Child IDR 60
Weekend:
- Adult IDR 100
- Child IDR 80
Seeking Stamps Tip: Do not bring ANY food into the area. The monkeys love to grab phones, sunglasses and loose items so try to leave as much as possible at your resort.
Explore More Travel Destinations in Thailand in This Blog Post!
Ubud Bali Day 5- Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Holy Water Temple and Elephant Cave Temple
Tegalalang Rice Terrace (or Tegallalang Rice Terraces)
Today, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tegalalang Rice Terrace. Gaze out at the striking beauty of the verdant Ubud rice fields. Again, I recommend starting your rice fields walk early to avoid the crowds and brutal humidity.
Wear comfortable shoes that can handle mud and possible slippery conditions as you navigate through the layers of vegetation. Admire the scenery that is quintessential Bali!
Tegalalang Rice Terrace Opening hours:
- 7:00 am -5:00 pm
Tegallalang Rice Terraces Entrance Fee:
- Farmers ask for small donations of approximately IDR 50,000/ 3.40 USD
Seeking Stamps Tip: There are multiple Ubud rice paddies, so be specific with your taxi/driver if you want to see this particular one.
Holy Water Temple ( Pura Tirta Empul )
Later in the afternoon, plan a visit to the “Holy Spring” water temple (called Tirta Empul Temple). Here you can explore the local culture. Participate in a purification ritual by immersing yourself in the sacred pool and rinsing your head under several spouts in succession.
Remember to dress conservatively with shoulders and legs covered before entering. Once inside, you can rent the traditional green sarong and red sash (wear your bathing suit underneath).
There are changing rooms and rental lockers available for an additional fee. Also, bring a towel and a dry change of clothes. Plan to spend an hour or more here depending on crowds.
Tirta Empul Opening Hours:
- 9:00 am- 5:00 pm daily
Tirta Empul Entrance Fee:
- IDR 15,000 adult/ 1 USD
- IDR 7,500 child/ 0.50 USD
Seeking Stamps Cultural Consideration: Women and girls on their period may not enter the sacred water and are prohibited from entering sacred sites. They may enjoy the perimeter. (Sorry ladies, I don’t make the rules here!)
Elephant Cave Temple (Goa Gajah)
Now that you have purified your soul at Tirta Empul, you are ready to make the 30 minute drive to explore the Elephant Cave Temple. This site has interesting stone carvings dating back to the 11th century.
You can enter the mouth of the demon where you will find caning sari offerings (made of petals and blessed with holy water) inside the small cave. Plan to spend an hour here wandering around the complex. Proper dress is required.
Elephant Cave Temple Opening Hours:
- 8:00 am – 4:30 pm daily
Elephant Cave Temple Entrance Fee:
IDR 15,000/ 1 USD
Dinner at Bale Udang Mang Engking
After a long day of visiting Ubud sites, there is no doubt you will be hungry for dinner. I recommend visiting nearby Bale Udang Mang Engking for an eclectic Balinese vibe and delicious Indonesian food.
Other Possible Things to Do in Ubud, Bali
If you have more than 5 days in Ubud, here are some suggestions. We did not personally do these, so let me know your thoughts in the comments. These activities are great additions to your perfect Ubud itinerary!
- Campuhan Ridge Walk
- Tibumana Waterfall tour
- Mount Batur sunrise hike
- Try a traditional Balinese cooking class
- Explore Gunung Kawi Temple (Pura Gunung Kawi)
- Watch a local dance performance at the Ubud Royal Palace
- See the Don Antonio Blanco Museum
- Take day trips to Munduk Bali
- Journey to visit Uluwatu Temple and Ulun Danu Beratan
- Take tours to neighboring Islands
If You Plan to Continue Your Bali Vacation to Nusa Dua, Read This Blog for More Bali Travel Tips.
Ubud Itinerary 5 Days: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why Is Ubud, Bali Famous
Ubud is famous for being the cultural heart of Bali. Visitors can explore museums, interesting Hindu temples, and cultural performances. Soak up Ubud’s natural beauty with verdant rice terraces and cascading waterfalls. Escape the bustle of Bali with yoga retreats or peruse markets with handicrafts.
2. Is it Better to Stay in Bali or Ubud?
If you are trying to decide whether to stay in Ubud or Bali, consider your itinerary. To prioritize time at the beach, stay in Bali. To visit the rice fields and waterfalls, stay in Ubud. Ideally, plan to stay in both locations so you can maximize your enjoyment of the attractions Bali has to offer.
3. When Is the Best Time to Visit Ubud?
The best time to visit Ubud is June to September for the best weather. Peak season is August and September, but expect crowds at attractions and higher prices for hotels. Bali also experiences higher tourism during the US winter holidays. Try to avoid the rainy season from November to March.
4. How Long is Enough Time in Ubud?
If you’re short on time in Ubud, don’t worry! You can get a taste of its charm by spending 3 to 5 days in Ubud, Bali. This duration allows you to explore the famous Monkey Forest, wander through the Tegalalang rice field, visit traditional markets, explore temples, and indulge in Balinese cuisine.
5. Is 5 Days in Ubud Enough?
Five days in Ubud is enough to explore the area’s top attractions. Ubud for 5 days will give time to see the Sacred Monkey Forest, Tegalalang rice field, traditional markets, temples, and gorgeous waterfalls. If you have more time in Bali, there is plenty to keep you occupied in Ubud for longer.
6. Are There Snakes in Ubud, Bali?
There are 346 types of snakes in Indonesia, yet only 46 types of snakes in Bali. Most of them are non-venomous. Bali has 6 poisonous snakes including kraits, cobras, Asian coral snakes and green pit vipers. It is rare to see snakes, but stay safe and watch your step when walking through the jungle.
You Also Might Enjoy This Guide to the Water Blow in Nusa Dua, Bali!
5 Days in Ubud, Bali: Final Thoughts
In summary, Ubud is filled with cultural and natural attractions that make it the perfect destination for a 5 day Bali itinerary. From exploring Balinese Hindu temples and art galleries to experiencing traditional dance performances and indulging in delicious cuisine, there are plenty of things to do during your Ubud itinerary. Whether you are seeking relaxation or adventure, Ubud has it all. With its stunning landscapes and friendly locals, it’s no wonder that Ubud continues to captivate travelers from around the world.
