The Ultimate 3 Week Bali Itinerary
Best Areas, 5★ Resorts & Private Villas
Plan the perfect Bali luxury holiday. Best areas, 5★ resorts, private pool villas
You can “do” Bali in a week. But if you want the version that actually feels like Bali—beaches, jungle, culture, waterfalls, island-hopping, and time to breathe—three weeks is the sweet spot.
This is our ultimate 3 week Bali itinerary built for real travellers: first-timers, couples, friends, families, budget backpackers, and digital nomads who want a clear route, minimal backtracking, and bookable essentials (stays, transfers, ferries, tours, insurance, and connectivity).
Key rule for this itinerary: Canggu is capped at 2 days—enough to enjoy the best bits without letting traffic eat your trip.
Quick Overview 3 Weeks Bali Route
Quick Picks
Here’s the route we recommend for the best balance of coast + culture + islands:
- Days 1–3: Uluwatu (3 nights)
- Days 4–5: Canggu (2 nights max)
- Days 6–9: Ubud (4 nights)
- Days 10–11: Munduk (2 nights)
- Days 12–15: Nusa Lembongan (4 nights)
- Days 16–18: Nusa Penida (3 nights)
- Days 19–21: Gili Islands (3 nights) + return to Bali (late Day 21)
If you want less moving, we’ll show you exactly what to cut in the “Options & swaps” sections.
Before You Start -
Your 4 best transport options
1) Ride-hailing (Grab / Gojek):
Perfect for short trips in town. Not always allowed in certain tourist zones.
2) Private driver (best for day trips + transfers):
The easiest way to see Bali’s highlights without scooter stress. Great for families and first-timers.
3) Scooter rental (only if experienced):
Fast and flexible, but riskier. If you ride, you’ll want travel insurance that covers scooters and the correct licence.
4) Pre-booked transfers:
Best for airport pickups and port transfers (Sanur/Padang Bai). Fewer scams, less negotiation.
Book this now (recommended):
- Accommodation for at least your first 2 nights
- Airport transfer (especially if arriving late)
- Travel insurance (do it before your trip starts)
- eSIM (data on arrival = maps + drivers + bookings)
What This 3 Week Bali Itinerary Is Best For
- First-time Bali visitors who want a proven route
- Couples who want Uluwatu + Ubud + island time
- Budget travellers who want hostels + cheap tours + ferries
- Families who want fewer long travel days + easy logistics
- Digital nomads who want a taste of Canggu without getting stuck there
Where to Book Essentials (Quick Links)
Use these to keep planning fast and flexible:
- Stays (hotels/villas/guesthouses): [Compare Bali stays]({{Booking link}})
- Alternative price check: [Compare on Agoda]({{Agoda link}})
- Tours & activities / drivers: [Browse Bali tours]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
- Ferries / fast boats: [Book ferry tickets]({{12Go ASIN/deep links; budget transfer partner}})
- eSIM (recommended): Saily (set up before you fly)
- Insurance: [Get a quote]({{World Nomads/SafetyWing link}})
Days 1–3: Uluwatu (Cliffs, Beaches, Sunsets)
Uluwatu is the perfect start: dramatic coastline, iconic beaches, surf energy, and some of Bali’s best sunsets. It’s also calmer than Canggu/Seminyak.
Where to base yourself
Choose one area and keep it simple:
- Bingin / Padang Padang: beach access + cafés
- Uluwatu central (near Pecatu): easy access to temple + beaches
- Balangan: quieter, more spread out
Stay tip: Pick a hotel/villa close to the beaches you’ll actually visit—Uluwatu distances look short but add up.
Book: [Uluwatu stays]({{Booking link}}) | [Compare prices]({{Agoda link}})
Day 1: Arrive + settle + first sunset
Do:
- Arrive at DPS, pre-book a transfer to avoid airport taxi stress
- Easy afternoon: pool, beach walk, early dinner
Bookable essentials:
- [Airport transfer]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
- [Uluwatu hotel deals]({{Booking link}})
Pro tip: Don’t try to “squeeze in” a temple on arrival day. Bali rewards a slower start.
Day 2: Beach hop + cliff views
Do:
- Pick 2 beaches max (e.g., Padang Padang + Bingin)
- Sunset viewpoint or casual cliffside warung
Optional add-on:
- A beginner surf lesson (if you’re confident in the water)
- A beach club session (book ahead in peak season)
Book: [Uluwatu experiences]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
Day 3: Uluwatu Temple + Kecak (evening)
This is one of Bali’s most iconic cultural experiences—and it’s easy to do without overplanning.
Do:
- Temple in late afternoon
- Kecak Fire Dance at sunset (arrive early—lines get big)
Book: [Kecak + Uluwatu Temple options]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
Where to Book Essentials (Quick Links)
Use these to keep planning fast and flexible:
- Stays (hotels/villas/guesthouses): [Compare Bali stays]({{Booking link}})
- Alternative price check: [Compare on Agoda]({{Agoda link}})
- Tours & activities / drivers: [Browse Bali tours]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
- Ferries / fast boats: [Book ferry tickets]({{12Go ASIN/deep links; budget transfer partner}})
- eSIM (recommended): Saily (set up before you fly)
- Insurance: [Get a quote]({{World Nomads/SafetyWing link}})
Days 4–5: Canggu - 2 Days, Done Right
Canggu is great for cafés, beach clubs, shopping, and a social vibe. It’s also one of the most traffic-heavy parts of Bali. That’s why we keep it tight: 2 days is enough.
Stay: [Canggu stays]({{Booking link}}) | [Compare]({{Agoda link}})
Day 4: Transfer in + café crawl + sunset
Do:
- Travel from Uluwatu to Canggu mid-morning
- Late lunch + explore boutiques
- Sunset drink at a beachfront bar
Book:
- [Private transfer / driver]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
Day 5: Surf lesson OR beach club day
Pick one main activity to avoid wasting the day in traffic.
Option A (active): Surf lesson + relaxed dinner
Option B (easy): Beach club day (arrive early for beds)
Book: [Canggu tours & activities]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
Tonight: Pack and reset—tomorrow you head inland to Ubud.
Where to Book Essentials (Quick Links)
Use these to keep planning fast and flexible:
- Stays (hotels/villas/guesthouses): [Compare Bali stays]({{Booking link}})
- Alternative price check: [Compare on Agoda]({{Agoda link}})
- Tours & activities / drivers: [Browse Bali tours]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
- Ferries / fast boats: [Book ferry tickets]({{12Go ASIN/deep links; budget transfer partner}})
- eSIM (recommended): Saily (set up before you fly)
- Insurance: [Get a quote]({{World Nomads/SafetyWing link}})
Days 6–9: Ubud (Culture, Jungle, Waterfalls)
Ubud is where Bali slows down: rice terraces, temples, art, markets, jungle stays, and day trips that are genuinely worth it.
Stay: [Ubud hotels/villas]({{Booking link}}) | [Compare]({{Agoda link}})
Day 6: Transfer to Ubud + easy evening
Do:
- Check into your Ubud stay (centre or rice-field outskirts)
- Walk the main streets, early night
Book: [Driver transfer to Ubud]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
Day 7: Rice terraces + temple combo (half-day)
Do:
- Early start to avoid crowds
- Rice terraces + one temple stop
- Choose a café with rice-field views for lunch
Book: [Ubud day tours]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
Day 8: Waterfall day (pick 1–2, not 5)
Waterfalls are amazing. The mistake is trying to do too many.
Do:
- Choose 1–2 waterfalls with time to swim and relax
- Add a local lunch stop (warung)
Book: [Waterfall tour options]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
Day 9: Mount Batur sunrise (optional) + spa recovery
If you’re up for a big morning, Mount Batur is a classic. If not, skip it and enjoy Ubud at a slower pace.
Option A: Mount Batur sunrise hike
Option B: Yoga + massage + market browse
Book: [Mount Batur tours]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
Where to Book Essentials (Quick Links)
Use these to keep planning fast and flexible:
- Stays (hotels/villas/guesthouses): [Compare Bali stays]({{Booking link}})
- Alternative price check: [Compare on Agoda]({{Agoda link}})
- Tours & activities / drivers: [Browse Bali tours]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
- Ferries / fast boats: [Book ferry tickets]({{12Go ASIN/deep links; budget transfer partner}})
- eSIM (recommended): Saily (set up before you fly)
- Insurance: [Get a quote]({{World Nomads/SafetyWing link}})
Days 10–11: Munduk (Waterfalls + Cool Mountain Air)
Munduk is your “different Bali” moment—misty mornings, quiet roads, and some of the island’s best waterfalls. It’s perfect after busier Ubud.
Stay: [Munduk stays]({{Booking link}}) | [Compare]({{Agoda link}})
Day 10: Ubud → Munduk scenic transfer
Do:
- Travel to Munduk
- Stop at one scenic viewpoint/temple on the way (don’t overload)
Best move: Hire a driver so you can enjoy the route.
Book: [Private driver / transfer]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
Day 11: Waterfalls + coffee views
Do:
- Start early
- Pick 2 waterfalls
- Afternoon: coffee plantation viewpoint or a slow village stroll
Book: [Munduk tours]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
Where to Book Essentials (Quick Links)
Use these to keep planning fast and flexible:
- Stays (hotels/villas/guesthouses): [Compare Bali stays]({{Booking link}})
- Alternative price check: [Compare on Agoda]({{Agoda link}})
- Tours & activities / drivers: [Browse Bali tours]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
- Ferries / fast boats: [Book ferry tickets]({{12Go ASIN/deep links; budget transfer partner}})
- eSIM (recommended): Saily (set up before you fly)
- Insurance: [Get a quote]({{World Nomads/SafetyWing link}})
Days 12–15: Nusa Lembongan (Island Mode, No Chaos)
After mountains, head to the water. Nusa Lembongan is relaxed and easy: beaches, snorkelling, sunsets, and day trips without Bali-level traffic.
Get there: Fast boat from Sanur
Book: [Fast boat tickets]({{12Go ASIN/deep links; budget transfer partner}})
Stay: [Lembongan stays]({{Booking link}}) | [Compare]({{Agoda link}})
Day 12: Travel day + sunset at Devil’s Tear
Do:
- Transfer to Sanur port
- Boat to Lembongan
- Sunset at Devil’s Tear (watch from a safe distance)
Book: [Port transfer + boat]({{12Go ASIN/deep links; budget transfer partner}})
Day 13: Snorkel day (manta chance)
One of the biggest reasons to come: ocean days that feel like a proper escape.
Do:
- Snorkel tour (manta rays possible depending on conditions)
- Chill beach afternoon
Book: [Snorkelling tours]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
Day 14: Nusa Ceningan half-day
Do:
- Cross the Yellow Bridge
- Blue Lagoon viewpoint + quiet beach time
- Sunset dinner back on Lembongan
Day 15: Buffer day (the best day)
Leave one day unplanned. Use it for:
- A second snorkel
- Beach hopping
- A slow scooter loop (only if experienced)
- Catching up on rest
Where to Book Essentials (Quick Links)
Use these to keep planning fast and flexible:
- Stays (hotels/villas/guesthouses): [Compare Bali stays]({{Booking link}})
- Alternative price check: [Compare on Agoda]({{Agoda link}})
- Tours & activities / drivers: [Browse Bali tours]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
- Ferries / fast boats: [Book ferry tickets]({{12Go ASIN/deep links; budget transfer partner}})
- eSIM (recommended): Saily (set up before you fly)
- Insurance: [Get a quote]({{World Nomads/SafetyWing link}})
Days 16–18: Nusa Penida (Big Views, Big Days)
Nusa Penida is stunning—but it’s not a “quick day trip” if you want to enjoy it. Roads are rough, distances take time, and the best viewpoints deserve unhurried visits.
Stay: [Nusa Penida stays]({{Booking link}}) | [Compare]({{Agoda link}})
Book transport: [Private driver in Penida]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
Day 16: Lembongan → Penida + west coast highlights
Do:
- Short boat transfer
- West Penida: iconic viewpoints (choose 2–3 max)
Book: [Penida day driver]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
Day 17: East Penida early start
East Penida is the “wow” day—think dramatic cliffs and bright water.
Do:
- Start very early
- Choose 2 key spots + one beach
Safety note: Many beaches involve steep stairs. Wear proper shoes and don’t push it in the heat.
Day 18: Snorkel day + sunset pool
Do:
- Snorkel tour (manta rays possible)
- Late afternoon: pool club / viewpoint to finish strong
Book: [Snorkel + manta tours]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
Where to Book Essentials (Quick Links)
Use these to keep planning fast and flexible:
- Stays (hotels/villas/guesthouses): [Compare Bali stays]({{Booking link}})
- Alternative price check: [Compare on Agoda]({{Agoda link}})
- Tours & activities / drivers: [Browse Bali tours]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
- Ferries / fast boats: [Book ferry tickets]({{12Go ASIN/deep links; budget transfer partner}})
- eSIM (recommended): Saily (set up before you fly)
- Insurance: [Get a quote]({{World Nomads/SafetyWing link}})
Days 19–21: Gili Islands (Clear Water + No Cars)
The Gili Islands aren’t Bali—but they’re one of the best add-ons for a 3 week itinerary: clear water, snorkelling, bikes, and a full change of pace.
Choose your island:
- Gili Trawangan (Gili T): social, lots of dining
- Gili Air: relaxed, balanced
- Gili Meno: quiet, couple-friendly
Book ferries: [Fast boat tickets]({{12Go ASIN/deep links; budget transfer partner}})
Stay: [Gili stays]({{Booking link}}) | [Compare]({{Agoda link}})
Day 19: Penida → Gili travel day
Do:
- Travel to Gili (factor delays)
- Sunset beach walk + night market dinner
Tip: Keep your schedule light—boats can run late.
Day 20: Snorkel with turtles + bike loop
Do:
- Snorkel tour (often includes multiple islands)
- Bike the island perimeter at golden hour
Book: [Gili snorkel tours]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
Day 21: Return to Bali + fly out (or overnight near airport)
Most travellers return by boat and then transfer to the airport area. If your flight is early the next day, consider one final night in a practical base (Sanur or near DPS).
Book:
- [Boat back to Bali]({{12Go ASIN/deep links; budget transfer partner}})
- [Airport area stays]({{Booking link}})
- [Private transfer]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
Where to Book Essentials (Quick Links)
Use these to keep planning fast and flexible:
- Stays (hotels/villas/guesthouses): [Compare Bali stays]({{Booking link}})
- Alternative price check: [Compare on Agoda]({{Agoda link}})
- Tours & activities / drivers: [Browse Bali tours]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
- Ferries / fast boats: [Book ferry tickets]({{12Go ASIN/deep links; budget transfer partner}})
- eSIM (recommended): Saily (set up before you fly)
- Insurance: [Get a quote]({{World Nomads/SafetyWing link}})
What This 3 Week Bali Itinerary Costs
Costs depend heavily on travel style. Use these as “from” guides, not promises.
- Budget: hostels/guesthouses + warungs + shared boats/tours
- Mid-range: boutique hotels + private drivers some days + a few paid experiences
- Luxury: villas/resorts + private drivers + premium tours + spa/dining
Big cost drivers: ferries/boats, private drivers, and last-minute accommodation in peak season.
Practical Tips That Make This Itinerary Work
1) Book these 3 things early
- First 2 nights accommodation: [Check Bali stays]({{Booking link}})
- Ferries during peak periods: [Book fast boats]({{12Go ASIN/deep links; budget transfer partner}})
- A driver for big day trips: [Private driver options]({{GetYourGuide/Klook/MyBaliTrips link}})
2) Get data before you land
Maps, WhatsApp, ride-hailing, and bookings all need data.
Recommended: Saily eSIM (set up before takeoff)
3) Don’t gamble on scooter insurance
If you plan to ride, make sure your travel insurance covers scooters and you meet the licence requirements.
Get a quote: [Travel insurance]({{World Nomads/SafetyWing link}})
Top Luxury Resorts in Bali
(Editor’s Picks)
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan (Ubud)
Our top pick for luxury travelers. This stunning five-star beachfront resort features 103 elegantly designed rooms and suites, two swimming pools (including an ocean-facing infinity pool), an award-winning spa, and complimentary daily yoga classes. The Heavenly Suites offer private pool balconies with ocean views - perfect for honeymooners. Maya Sanur is Balinese-owned and operated, adding an authentic touch to the luxury experience. From $243 AUD per night.
Bulgari Resort Bali (Uluwatu)
Hyatt's most elite property in Sanur, this five-star resort blends traditional Balinese village design with modern luxury. Choose from suites or private pool villas grouped around lush courtyards. Facilities include three swimming pools, the renowned Shankha Spa, and multiple dining venues. From $384 AUD per night.
The Legian (Seminyak)
Bali’s first-ever five-star resort (recently renovated), the Hyatt Regency offers expansive tropical gardens, three outdoor pools, and exceptional family-friendly facilities including a dedicated kids’ pool and club. The beachfront location and attentive service make this a perennial favorite. From $206 AUD per night.
The Apurva Kempinski (Nusa Dua)
Formerly the Fairmont, this prestigious IHG property features spacious suites and private pool villas (one to three bedrooms) set in a prime central location. Amenities include multiple pools, a luxury spa, fitness center, and beachfront dining. From $362 AUD per night.
COMO Shambhala Estate (Ubud)
A boutique beachfront treasure with a unique history. Founded in the 1960s, this intimate resort features standalone bungalows built by local craftsmen, set within lush tropical gardens. The founder's philosophy - "My hotel is my living room, my guests are my friends" - perfectly captures the warm, personal atmosphere. From $409 AUD per night.
The Meru (Sanur)
Opened in February 2024 after the transformation of the historic Grand Inna Bali Beach, the resort is situated within the 42-hectare Sanur Special Economic Zone (KEK) for Health and Wellness. It is known for its focus on well-being, sophisticated Balinese architecture, and its prime 1km stretch of white sandy beach.
Best Private Pool Villas in Bali
Mid-Range Excellence:
XYZ
An affordable four-star hotel offering excellent value in central Sanur. Modern rooms, a lagoon-style pool, on-site restaurant, and a prime location on Jalan Danau Tamblingan make this a smart choice for travelers who want quality without the luxury price tag. Ground-floor rooms offer direct pool access. From $112 AUD per night.
XYZ
A beautiful four-star beachfront resort in South Sanur, featuring two pools, spa services, and elegant Balinese-style rooms. The quieter southern location appeals to those seeking a more peaceful atmosphere. From $222 AUD per night.Guests have access to two swimming pools, a private beach area, a library, and lush tropical gardens.The on-site Spa at Puri Santrian provides traditional Balinese massages, facials, and beauty rituals using natural botanical products.
XYZ
Upmarket boutique hotel known for its peaceful, art-focused atmosphere and traditional Balinese design. Nightly rates typically range from AU$113 to AU$151 The onsite Ares Restaurant specializes in steak and pasta, and is highly rated for its breakfast and evening cocktails. Includes the Sudajiva Spa, an outdoor swimming pool, and the Sudakara ArtSpace, Beach Access: While not directly on the water, it is a 5-10 minute walk to Sanur Beach, where the resort provides a dedicated area with free sun loungers and towels.
Booking Tip: We recommend using Booking.com or Agoda for the widest selection and best rates. For luxury properties, booking directly through the hotel website can sometimes yield exclusive perks or upgrades.
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Adventure Tours
Thrill-seekers - Check our outdoor excursions focusing on the island's natural landscapes, including white water rafting , ATV quad biking through jungles and rice paddies, and sunrise trekking up Mountains.
Day Tours
Curated, full-day (8–12 hour) or half-day sightseeing trips across the island, featuring a private car, driver/guide. Offering personalized experiences visiting iconic temples, waterfalls, rice terraces and local villages.
Multi-Day Tours
Take us up on our curated, 2 to 5 day itineraries offering comprehensive, hassle-free travel across the island, covering major regions like Ubud, Uluwatu, the east coast and everything in-between. These private or small-group packages include transport, entrance fees, and activities.
Common Questions
Is 3 weeks in Bali too long?
No. It’s the ideal length if you want coast + culture + islands without rushing.
Where should first-timers stay in Bali?
A balanced first trip usually includes Uluwatu + Ubud + one island (Lembongan or Gili).
Why only 2 days in Canggu?
Because it’s great—but traffic and “same‑same” café days can eat time fast. Two days gives you the highlights without losing your itinerary momentum.
Should I do Nusa Penida as a day trip?
You can, but you’ll rush. Two nights minimum is the sweet spot if you want both east and west without burnout.
Which Gili island is best?
- Social: Gili T
- Balanced: Gili Air
- Quiet: Gili Meno
Ready to Plan your Sanur Escape?
- Book Accommodation: Booking.com | Agoda
- Book Activities & Tours: GetYourGuide | Klook
- Travel Insurance: World Nomads | SafetyWing
- Airport Transfer: Klook Private Transfer
- Fast Boat to Nusa Islands: GetYourGuide
- Phone eSIM – Saily:
Next Steps:
- Explore our Bali on a Budget Guide for money-saving tips
- Read our Retiring in Bali Guide for long-term stay information
- Check out our Nusa Penida Day Trip Guide for island-hopping adventures
- Download our Bali Packing List for travelers
Affiliate Disclosure: Bali or Bust is reader-supported. When you book through our links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep the site running and perhaps fund a sunset cocktail or two. We only recommend services and products we genuinely use and trust.
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