UBUD

The Definitive Guide to Bali’s Cultural & Jungle Heart

Why Ubud is Bali’s Cultural Sanctuary in the Jungle

If Seminyak is Bali’s sophisticated beachfront Playground and Sanur is the island’s serene sunrise coast, Ubud is where you go to feel Bali’s soul. Tucked into the green highlands at the centre of the island, Ubud trades surf breaks for rice terraces, jungle valleys, temple courtyards, and slow‑moving rivers.

Here, incense drifts out of family compounds, gamelan music floats through the dusk, and offerings line the pavements each morning. You’re never far from a temple ceremony, a craft village, or a yoga studio overlooking the rice fields. It’s busy, yes – but for good reason. Ubud is where culture, nature, food, and wellness all sit in one easy‑to‑explore hub.

This guide gives you a practical, no‑fluff framework for deciding where to stay, what to do, and how to weave Ubud into your wider Bali itinerary – whether it’s your first visit or your fifth.

The Story of Ubud

From Artists’ Village to Global Cultural Hub

Ubud sits in Gianyar Regency, about 60–90 minutes north of the airport, in a landscape of ravines, rice terraces, and rivers. For centuries it has been a centre of healing, art, and spirituality—the name “Ubud” itself is linked to “ubad”, meaning medicine.

In the early 20th century, artists like Walter Spies and Rudolf Bonnet settled here, collaborating with Balinese painters and performers and helping to build Ubud’s reputation as a cultural centre. Later, the royal family backed the development of art markets, dance performances, and museums, making culture accessible to visitors rather than hidden away.

Fast‑forward to today:

The Sacred Monkey Forest protects temple ruins and jungle within walking distance of town.
Tegallalang and Jatiluwih rice terraces showcase Bali’s UNESCO‑recognised subak irrigation system.
Yoga studios, wellness retreats, and plant‑forward cafés have made Ubud a magnet for wellness travellers and digital nomads.
“Eat Pray Love” put Ubud on the global map, then Instagram took it to another level.

Despite the extra traffic, local banjar (village councils) still regulate ceremonies, temple etiquette, and land use. Temples, family compounds, and rice fields sit alongside boutique hotels, and that mix is exactly why Ubud still feels like “real Bali” beneath the tourism layer.

Top Things To Do in Ubud

Culture, Rice Terraces, Waterfalls & Wellness

You could spend weeks here, but these are the core experiences that justify the trip—especially for mature travellers and long‑stayers.

Walk the Campuhan Ridge at Sunrise or Sunset
A gentle, paved ridge walk just west of town, Campuhan Ridge gives you sweeping views over valleys, palms, and rice fields. It’s an easy 30–45 minute stroll one way, with soft light and cooler temperatures in the early morning or late afternoon.

Who it suits: Everyone; ideal for retirees and families.
Tip: Start at the entrance near Warwick Ibah for the most scenic section, then reward yourself with coffee or juice at one of the cafés at the far end.

Explore Ubud’s Temples & Water Palaces

Ubud Water Palace (Pura Taman Saraswati): A photogenic temple in the town centre with lotus ponds leading to an ornate inner courtyard. Lovely at twilight with traditional dance performances some evenings.
Pura Tirta Empul (Holy Spring Temple): 30–40 minutes north of town, this 10th‑century water temple invites visitors to join a melukat purification ritual in spring‑fed pools. Go with a guide to understand the symbolism and correct order of the fountains.
Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave): 9th‑century temple compound with a demon‑carved cave entrance and bathing pools, easily combined with a half‑day trip.
Who it suits: Culture‑seekers, first‑timers, retirees.
Tip: Sarongs are usually included in the ticket; you don’t need to buy one from touts at the gate.

Wander the Sacred Monkey Forest (With Your Wits About You)
Technically three temples in a patch of moss‑covered jungle, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is home to over 1,000 long‑tailed macaques. It’s genuinely beautiful—stone bridges, banyan trees, and temple spires—but the monkeys are bold.

Who it suits: Families with older kids, curious first‑timers.
Tips:
- Don’t carry loose food or dangle sunglasses/phones.
- Visit early to avoid tour‑bus crowds and midday heat.
- If you’re anxious around animals, skip this and visit quieter temples instead.

Visit Tegallalang Rice Terraces (Early) The stepped hillsides of Tegallalang, 20–25 minutes north of Ubud, are the island’s most famous rice terraces—lush green arcs tumbling down a valley. The site has evolved into a mini‑park with swings, photo platforms, and cafés.

Who it suits: Everyone; especially photographers and first‑timers.
Tip: Arrive near opening (around 8am) to enjoy the terraces before the big tour groups and midday heat.

Chase (or Gently Visit) Waterfalls

Within 30–90 minutes of Ubud you’ll find some of Bali’s most photogenic waterfalls, including:

Tegenungan Waterfall: Closest and most popular; expect crowds but easy access.
Kanto Lampo: Cascading, stepped rock wall; good for photos.
Goa Rang Reng: Cascading falls with a jungle trail and swimming spots.
Leke Leke, Tukad Cepung, Sekumpul (further north): More effort, more reward.
Who it suits: Active travellers; luxury guests via private driver; long‑stayers spacing trips out.
Tip: For comfort and safety, especially for older travellers, book a private driver + curated waterfall tour rather than self‑navigating steep, slippery paths.

Join a Cooking Class & Market Visit
Cooking classes around Ubud often include a traditional market visit, a walk through rice paddies, and hands‑on preparation of Balinese dishes like sate lilit, lawar, and sambal. You’ll sit down to a multi‑course meal at the end.

Who it suits: Couples, families with teens, retirees, solo travellers.
Monetisation: Link to 2–3 vetted GetYourGuide / Klook classes with strong reviews and hotel pickup.

Lean into Wellness: Yoga, Spas & Sound Healing

Ubud’s wellness scene is huge:

Yoga studios like The Yoga Barn, Radiantly Alive, and others run multiple classes daily for all levels.
Spas range from simple local massage huts to high‑end jungle spa sanctuaries.
Sound healing, breathwork, and meditation sessions are widely available.
Who it suits: Wellness‑oriented Luxury travellers, nomads, and long‑stayers.
Tip: Suggest one or two introductory classes rather than committing to a full retreat for first‑timers.

Day Trip to Mount Batur for Sunrise (or a Jeep Tour)
From Ubud, you’re well placed to join a Mount Batur sunrise trek or newer 4×4 sunrise jeep experiences, combining volcano views with hot springs.

Who it suits: Active travellers and fit retirees.
Risk note: Clearly label this as a more strenuous option; recommend travel insurance and reputable guides.

Simply “Be” in Town: Markets, Cafés & Galleries
Don’t underestimate the pleasure of doing very little:

Browsing Ubud Art Market for handicrafts.
Dropping into small galleries and museums (Neka, ARMA, Blanco).
Café‑hopping through Ubud’s excellent brunch and coffee scene.

This is particularly appealing for long‑stayers and retirees who want routine rather than a packed schedule.

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Where to Stay

Choosing the Right Area

When booking, remember “Ubud” can mean:

Ubud Town Centre: Walkable to cafés, Monkey Forest, Water Palace. Great if you don’t want to rely on drivers.
Penestanan & Sayan: Just outside town; jungle and river valley views, boutique villas and yoga spots.
Tegallalang & Northern Villages: Deeper rice‑field and countryside stays; peaceful but you’ll need transport for everything.
Nyuh Kuning: Village south of Monkey Forest, with a more residential feel and easy access into town.

Luxury Jungle Resorts & Villas “Trip of a Lifetime”

A river‑valley icon (e.g. Four Seasons at Sayan / Mandapa‑style property).
A design‑led tented camp or adults‑only retreat.
A cliff‑edge infinity‑pool resort like Hanging Gardens‑type.

Segment fit: “Best for honeymooners / celebratory trips / wellness‑focused retirees.”
Why we like it: River views, butler service, world‑class spa, easy private‑driver access to town, etc.
Indicative pricing: “From around $800–$1,800 AUD per night depending on season and room type. Always check current rates and inclusions.”

Mid‑Range Boutique Hotels

Boutique hotels in/near town with pools and rice‑field or garden views.
Well‑rated wellness‑oriented resorts with daily yoga and spa packages.
Sample price guidance: “From around $180–$350 AUD per night in shoulder season.”

Budget‑Friendly Homestays & Guesthouses (Budget/Nomad / Retiree Testing Ubud)

Family‑run homestays with breakfast and small pools.
Simple bungalows overlooking rice fields a short scooter ride from town.
Rough range: from $40–$90 AUD per night.

Long‑stay note: many properties will negotiate monthly rates – enquire directly once you’ve found a favourite.

Top Luxury Resorts (High-AOV Properties):

Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Mandapa is Ubud's most iconic luxury resort, perched on the banks of the sacred Ayung River and surrounded by lush rainforest. This Ritz-Carlton Reserve offers ultra-luxe river-view suites with private terraces and spacious pool villas with gardens and outdoor showers. The resort's four nature-bound dining spots include Kubu, where you dine on organic Mediterranean-European cuisine in a bamboo pod by the river, and Sawah Terrace, offering tailor-made dining experiences by the rice fields. The infinity pool, world-class spa, and cultural activities (rice planting, temple visits) make this a bucket-list stay. River-view suites, 1–2 bedroom pool villas Price: From AU$750 per night Best for: Honeymooners, luxury seekers, special occasions

Capella Ubud

Capella Ubud redefines luxury glamping. Set in the jungle-tangled Keliki Valley, this boutique resort features just 22 Dutch-style "tents"—actually lavish pavilions with hand-carved teak, copper soaking tubs, and private saltwater plunge pools. The design evokes a 19th-century explorer's camp, with leather trunks, vintage compasses, and Indonesian antiques scattered throughout. There are no TVs or plastic—just gibbons howling in the treetops, the perfume of wild ginger, and campfire storytelling nights. The Auriga Spa offers signature treatments in a jungle setting. Capella Ubud was named Best Resort in Asia by Travel + Leisure. Room types: Luxury tented villas with private pools Price: From AU$2,150 per night Best for: Adventurous luxury seekers, honeymooners, unique experiences

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan was named the No. 1 Hotel in the World by Travel + Leisure in 2018. This six-star sanctuary is nestled between two sacred rivers, hidden behind a jungle canopy and fronted by a show-stopping footbridge fringed by sky-high lily ponds. The resort offers a limited number of suites and private villas, each with private plunge pools, deep soaking tubs, and jungle-facing views. The Riverside Café serves Indonesian and international cuisine, while the Sacred River Spa offers treatments inspired by Balinese healing traditions. Room types: Jungle-view suites, 1–2 bedroom pool villas Price: From AU$1,980 per night Best for: VIPs, A-list guests, luxury seekers

COMO Shambhala Estate

COMO Shambhala Estate is a 23-acre holistic wellness sanctuary perched on the steep gorge of the sacred Ayung River. This ultra-luxe retreat combines luxury accommodation with personalized wellness programs—yoga, Pilates, meditation, Qigong, and aqua therapy in the 25m hydrotherapy pool. The resort's suites and villas feature large terraces, some with private pools, and the on-site Glow Restaurant serves nutritionally balanced, organic cuisine. The estate also has its own natural springs for a truly immersive wellness experience. Room types: Suites and villas with private pools Price: From AU$2,230 per night Best for: Wellness seekers, yoga retreats, holistic healing

Viceroy Bali

Viceroy Bali is a family-owned luxury resort in Ubud's "Valley of the Kings," offering sprawling private pool villas (none smaller than 1,500 sqft) with uninterrupted views of the Petanu Valley. The resort's award-winning facilities include CasCades (lunch with a view), Akoya Spa, and Apéritif (fine dining) followed by nightcaps at Pinstripe Bar. The intimate setting, impeccable service, and dramatic valley views make this a top choice for honeymooners and couples. Room types: Private pool villas (1,500+ sqft) Price: From AU$1,860 per night Best for: Honeymooners, couples, luxury seekers

Bisma Eight

Bisma Eight is a Michelin Key boutique hotel that combines Bali's artisanal charm with stylish modernity and a commitment to sustainability. The naturally-lit suites feature local crafts, jungle views, and barrel-like bathtubs, while the infinity pool feels like it's flowing into the treetops. The hotel offers curated stay packages—The Honeymoon, Retreat and Revive (spa treatments and dreamy dining), The Ubud Heritage (local food and culture), and The Epicurean Escape (culinary experiences). Copper Kitchen, Bar & Rooftop (see Restaurants section) is a highlight. Room types: Suites with jungle views Price: From AU$520 per night Best for: Couples, eco-conscious travellers, cultural experiences

Mid-Range Excellence:

11 on Kajeng

11 on Kajeng is a tranquil boutique hotel just a 10-minute walk from Ubud center, yet tucked away enough to stay quiet. The rooms and villas blend Balinese design with modern touches, and the small infinity pool is surrounded by tropical greenery. You're close to the scenic rice field walk but far enough to avoid mosquitoes, with Ubud Market right at your doorstep and plenty of restaurants within a short stroll. Room types: Rooms and villas Price: From AU$150 per night Best for: Couples, travelers seeking comfort and calm close to main attractions

Weda Cita Resort and Spa

Weda Cita Resort and Spa is one of the best mid-range stays in Ubud if you want comfort, peace, and a touch of luxury. The hotel sits slightly tucked away from the main road, so it's quiet but still within a reasonable distance from Ubud center. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, the pool is inviting, and the on-site spa offers affordable Balinese massages. It's a great base for exploring Ubud without breaking the bank. Room types: Deluxe rooms, suites Price: From AU$120 per night Best for: Couples, families, mid-range travellers

Dinara Ubud

Dinara Ubud is a lifestyle hotel that blends contemporary design with traditional Balinese accents. The customized furnishings, hand-dyed textiles, and scenes of Balinese village life on the walls remind you you're never far from Bali's artisanship. The hotel offers cultural experiences—cooking classes, purification rituals, and lessons on making Balinese offerings. The on-site Melali Restaurant and spa are excellent. Room types: Deluxe rooms, suites Price: From AU$206 per night Best for: Savvy travellers who want both culture and style

Budget-Friendly Options:

Suntari Homestay

Suntari Homestay is a great pick for budget travellers who want a central but peaceful stay. The rooms are basic but clean, with private terraces overlooking a small garden—a quiet spot despite being close to Ubud Palace and the main market. Free parking and breakfast are included, making it one of the best-value stays in town. Room types: Standard rooms with private terraces Price: From AU$30 per night Best for: Budget travellers, solo travellers, central location

For Extended Stays and Families:

Blue Karma Dijiwa Ubud

Blue Karma Dijiwa Ubud is a design-focused resort in North Ubud (Tirta Tawar area), surrounded by rice fields and jungle views. The villas feature infinity pools, modern interiors, and serene atmospheres—perfect for long-term stays. The resort's peaceful setting, combined with easy access to Ubud center (10 minutes by scooter), makes it ideal for digital nomads and retirees. Room types: 1–2 bedroom villas with private pools Price: From AU$180 per night | AU$3,500 per month (negotiable) Best for: Long-term stays, digital nomads, retirees, peaceful setting

Tejaprana Bisma

Tejaprana Bisma is a luxury hotel close to Ubud center, offering spacious rooms with small gardens and private pools that feel completely secluded. The on-site restaurant overlooks the main infinity pool and is perfect for breakfast. For long-term stays, the hotel offers discounted monthly rates (inquire directly). Room types: Rooms with private pools Price: From AU$250 per night | AU$5,000 per month (negotiable) Best for: Long-term stays, couples, luxury seekers

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.

How Much Does Ubud Cost?

A Transparent Budget Breakdown

Prices swing by season, area, and comfort level, but here’s a realistic, transparent range for Ubud. All prices approximate and in Australian Dollars:

Accommodation (per night)

Budget homestay / guesthouse: from $40–$90 AUD
Mid‑range boutique hotel: from $180–$350 AUD
Luxury resort or private‑pool villa: from $450–$1,800+ AUD
Monthly long‑stay villa (simple 1–2 bed, outside centre): from $1,800–$4,000+ AUD per month, depending on inclusions, location, and season. Always confirm cleaning, utilities, and pool/garden maintenance upfront.

Food & Drink

Local warung meal: from $4–$9 AUD
Mid‑range restaurant (main + drink): $15–$35 AUD per person
Fine dining / tasting menu: $60–$150+ AUD per person
Coffee in a good café: $3–$6 AUD
Beer at a bar/restaurant: $4–$8 AUD
Fresh juice / smoothie: $4–$7 AUD

Activities & Transport

Private Ubud‑area day tour (car + driver + simple guiding): $80–$150 AUD per day depending on route and inclusions.
Temple / waterfall entries: generally $3–$10 AUD per site.
Group cooking class with market visit: typically $40–$70 AUD per person.
White‑water rafting or ATV tour: $45–$100+ AUD depending on operator and inclusions.
60‑minute local massage: from $12–$25 AUD; luxury spa treatments significantly more.
Scooter rental (experienced riders only, with IDP): around $8–$12 AUD per day.
Private one‑way transfer Airport → Ubud: roughly $35–$70 AUD depending on vehicle size and booking channel.

Sample Monthly Budget (Long‑Stay Solo or Couple)

For a comfortable, not ultra‑luxury stay:

Accommodation (modest villa / guesthouse, monthly rate): $1,800–$3,000 AUD
Food (mix of warungs, mid‑range restaurants, home cooking): $750–$1,200 AUD
Transport (occasional driver, scooter for experienced riders, taxis): $200–$400 AUD
Activities & wellness (classes, massages, day trips): $300–$600 AUD

Indicative total: from around $3,000–$5,000 AUD per month for a comfortable long‑stay lifestyle. Always verify current prices before committing—Ubud is evolving quickly.

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💡 Insider Tips

Best area for foodies: Jl Monkey Forest and Jl Raya Ubud are packed with restaurants, but venture to Sayan and Campuhan for quieter, scenic dining.
Vegetarian paradise: Ubud is one of the best places in Bali for plant-based eating—Zest, Sayuri, Siboghana, and Yellow Flower Cafe are all excellent.
Avoid peak hours: Restaurants get busy 6:30pm–8:30pm. Dine earlier (5:30pm) or later (9pm) for a more relaxed experience.
Scooter or walk? Central Ubud is walkable, but a scooter is handy for reaching spots like Sweet Orange Warung, Zest, and Mozaic.

Copper Kitchen, Bar & Rooftop (at Bisma Eight)

Best Restaurants & Cafés in Sanur

From Authentic Warungs to Beachfront Dining

Ubud’s dining scene is a beautiful collision of tradition and innovation—where smoky satay sizzles over coconut husks, vegan cafés serve dragon fruit bowls that look like edible art, and fine-dining restaurants tucked into jungle valleys redefine Indonesian cuisine. Whether you’re craving authentic Balinese flavours at a family-run warung or a sunset cocktail overlooking rice terraces, Ubud delivers.

Below, we’ve curated the best places to eat in Ubud across every budget and vibe—from humble warungs serving $2 nasi campur to Michelin-worthy tasting menus in bamboo pavilions.

Fine Dining & Special Occasions

Mozaic Restaurant

Award-winning French-Indonesian fine dining with lush gardens and romantic ambiance – For over 20 years, Mozaic has topped Bali’s fine-dining scene – and for good reason. Chef Chris Salans and Chef Blake Thornley fuse French technique with Bali’s seasonal ingredients, creating two degustation menus: the “Seasonal” (featuring dry-aged duck cooked tableside) and the wholly vegetarian “Botanicals” menu with highlights like rendang carpaccio.

Must-try: Confit Coral Trout, Dry-Aged Duck Breast, Kalamansi Sorbet
Price: Degustation menu from AU$165 per person
Hours: Daily, 6pm–10pm
Why go: Award-winning, French-Indonesian fine dining in a romantic garden setting

Locavore

Michelin-worthy tasting menus celebrating Indonesian ingredients and zero-waste philosophy. Locavore is Ubud’s most celebrated restaurant, earning a spot on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list year after year. Chefs Eelke Plasmeijer and Ray Adriansyah champion hyper-local, seasonal Indonesian ingredients with a zero-waste philosophy. The tasting menus (“Herbivore” and “Omnivore”) change regularly, showcasing creative dishes like smoked eel with fermented cassava and Bali coffee-rubbed beef.

Must-try: Tasting menu (changes seasonally), Bali coffee-rubbed beef, fermented cassava dishes
Price: Tasting menu from AU$180 per person
Hours: Tue–Sun, 12pm–3pm & 6pm–10pm (closed Mondays)
Why go: Michelin-worthy, hyper-local tasting menus with a zero-waste ethos.

Aperitif Restaurant & Bar (at Viceroy Bali)

Elevated European-Asian fusion with Valley of the Kings views. Perched at the luxurious Viceroy Bali, Apéritif offers fine dining with sweeping views over the Petanu Valley (the “Valley of the Kings”). The menu blends European techniques with Asian flavours—think seared scallops with yuzu beurre blanc, slow-cooked lamb shank with Indonesian spices, and decadent desserts like passionfruit soufflé.

Must-try: Seared scallops, slow-cooked lamb shank, passionfruit soufflé
Price: Mains from AU$45
Hours: Daily, 7am–11pm
Why go: Fine dining with Valley of the Kings views and impeccable service.

Healthy, Vegan & Vegetarian Cafés

Zest Ubud

100% plant-based café with sourdough pizzas, smoothie bowls, and jungle views. Zest is Ubud’s go-to for vegan comfort food that doesn’t compromise on flavour. The menu is 100% plant-based, featuring sourdough pizzas, hearty Buddha bowls, raw desserts, and Instagram-worthy smoothie bowls. The hippie-chic vibe, live jam sessions, and views over the Campuhan River Valley make it a favourite among expats and digital nomads.

Must-try: Sourdough pizza, Buddha bowls, raw cacao cheesecake
Price: Mains from AU$15
Hours: Daily, 8am–10pm
Why go: 100% vegan, hippie-chic vibes, and stunning river valley views.

Sayuri Healing Food

Organic, plant-based café with Ayurvedic-inspired dishes and a serene garden setting. Tucked down a quiet lane, Sayuri Healing Food is a peaceful oasis serving organic, plant-based meals inspired by Ayurvedic principles. The menu features nourishing bowls, fresh juices, herbal teas, and raw desserts—all designed to heal and energize.

Must-try: Ayurvedic bowls, fresh-pressed juices, raw desserts
Price: Mains from AU$12
Hours: Daily, 8am–9pm
Why go: Organic, Ayurvedic-inspired plant-based food in a serene garden.

Authentic Warungs & Indonesian Cuisine

Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka

Ubud’s most famous warung for succulent Balinese roast pork (babi guling). No trip to Ubud is complete without trying babi guling (Balinese roast pork), and Ibu Oka is the undisputed queen. Anthony Bourdain famously declared it “the best pig ever,” and locals agree. The pork is roasted whole, stuffed with turmeric, coriander, lemongrass, and chili, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth meat with crispy, crackling skin.

Must-try: Babi guling mixed plate
Price: From AU$7
Hours: Daily, 11am–4pm (or until sold out)
Why go: Ubud’s most famous babi guling, endorsed by Anthony Bourdain.

Warung Makan Bu Rus

Traditional Balinese warung with stunning garden pavilions and authentic flavours. Warung Makan Bu Rus is a hidden gem tucked behind a busy street, offering authentic Balinese cuisine in a beautifully decorated traditional compound. Dine in open-air pavilions surrounded by statues, fountains, and lush greenery—it’s one of the most photogenic warungs in Ubud.

Must-try: Gado-gado, tempeh mendoan, Iga Bakar BBQ (pork ribs)
Price: Mains from AU$8
Hours: Daily, 11:30am–9:30pm
Why go: Authentic Balinese food in a stunning traditional garden setting.

Sweet Orange Warung

Hidden warung surrounded by rice fields with fresh, homemade Indonesian food. Sweet Orange Warung is a peaceful escape tucked along a scenic rice field walk. The menu features fresh, homemade Indonesian dishes—nasi goreng, mie goreng, gado-gado, and chicken satay—all bursting with flavour.

Must-try: Mie goreng, gado-gado, chicken satay
Price: Mains from AU$7
Hours: Daily, 9am–9pm
Why go: Fresh, homemade Indonesian food with rice paddy views.

Siboghana Warung

Family-run vegan warung with homecooked Balinese food in a garden setting. Siboghana Warung is a hidden gem serving 100% vegan Balinese food in a family’s garden. The menu features nasi campur, garlic satay mushroom skewers, and Balinese curries—all homecooked and bursting with flavour.

Must-try: Nasi campur, garlic satay mushroom skewers, banana cake
Price: Mains from AU$5
Hours: Daily, 10am–9pm
Why go: Homecooked vegan Balinese food in a serene garden setting.

Rooftop Bars & Date-Night Spots

Copper Kitchen, Bar & Rooftop (at Bisma Eight)

Rooftop dining with earth-to-table Asian fusion and dreamy sunset views. Copper Kitchen is Ubud’s most stylish rooftop bar and restaurant, perched atop the boutique hotel Bisma Eight. The menu features earth-to-table Asian fusion—sticky pork ribs, truffle mushroom risotto, beef rendang—all made with ingredients from Bisma Eight’s own Ubud farm.

Must-try: Sticky pork ribs, truffle mushroom risotto, beef rendang
Price: Mains from AU$20
Hours: Daily, 7am–11pm
Why go: Rooftop dining with sunset views and earth-to-table Asian fusion.

International & Mediterranean

Pasir

Mediterranean-inspired dishes with fresh seafood and coastal Bali vibes. Pasir (meaning “sand”) brings Bali’s beach life to the heart of Ubud. The Mediterranean-inspired menu features fresh seafood from local fishermen and vegetables from Ubud’s plantations—octopus carpaccio, snapper crudo, lamb kofta, and the show-stopping hanging tomahawk.

Must-try: Octopus carpaccio, snapper crudo, hanging tomahawk
Price: Mains from AU$15
Hours: Daily, 12pm–11pm
Why go: Mediterranean cuisine with fresh seafood and coastal-inspired decor.

Spice by Blake

Modern Indonesian flavours with creative cocktails in a stylish, casual setting. From the team behind Mozaic, Spice by Blake offers a more casual (and affordable) take on Indonesian cuisine. Chef Blake Thornley celebrates Indonesia’s rich spice heritage with bold, modern twists—braised beef cheek rendang, duck rawon, pepes ikan (fish steamed in banana leaves).

Must-try: Braised beef cheek rendang, duck rawon, pepes ikan
Price: Mains from AU$18
Hours: Daily, 4pm onwards
Why go: Casual yet innovative Indonesian food from a renowned chef.

Melali Ubud

Moroccan-style café serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a cozy, homely setting. Melali Ubud is a cozy café with Moroccan interiors, Mediterranean-inspired food, and laid-back vibes. By day, it’s a popular spot for healthy bowls, salads, and smoothies. By evening, it transforms into a casual restaurant for cocktails, mezze platters, and falafel bowls.

Must-try: Shakshuka, falafel bowl, mezze platter
Price: Mains from AU$9
Hours: Daily, 7am–11pm
Why go: Cozy Moroccan-style café with Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

Getting to Ubud and Getting Around

Comfort, Safety, and Traffic is Hectic in the centre of Town

From Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) to Ubud

Distance: ~37 km; 60–90 minutes depending on traffic.
Best options:
1. Pre‑booked Private Transfer (Recommended)
  - Most comfortable for mature travellers, families, and first‑timers.
  - Book via your hotel or a vetted operator on Get Your Guide / Klook.
  - Expect roughly $35–$70 AUD depending on group size and vehicle.
2. Hotel‑arranged driver:
  - Many Ubud hotels will send their own driver; often slightly more, but seamless.
3. Ride‑hailing apps (Grab/Gojek):
  - Sometimes an option leaving the airport, but patchy and not ideal for those unfamiliar with local rules.
  - Not recommended as your only plan.

Getting Around Ubud

On foot:
- Town centre is walkable, but pavements can be uneven. Suitable for reasonably mobile travellers.
Private car + driver:
- Best for day trips to waterfalls, temples, rice terraces.
- Plan 1–3 full sightseeing days, then more relaxed local days.
Scooter:
- Only for confident, experienced riders with an International Driving Permit. Riding without one can void insurance.
- Not recommended for most retirees or first‑time riders.
Taxis / local drivers:
- Easy to arrange through hotels or restaurants for point‑to‑point trips, especially in the evenings.

Common Questions

Is Ubud worth it if I’m already staying on the coast?

Yes. Ubud offers rice terraces, jungle ravines, temples, waterfalls, and wellness that you won’t find in Seminyak, Sanur, or Canggu. It balances “this is Bali” culture with visitor comfort.

How long should I stay in Ubud?

Quick taste: 2–3 nights, paired with a coastal base.
Balanced holiday: 4–6 nights with a mix of culture, wellness, and day trips.
Long‑stay / test‑run for retirement: 2–4+ weeks.

Is Ubud safe?

Generally yes. Violent crime against tourists is rare; main risks are traffic, slips on wet paths, and monkeys at the forest and some temples. Use standard travel common sense and you’ll be fine.

Is Ubud good for kids and older travellers?

Yes – with caveats. Town‑centre stays, easy walks (Campuhan Ridge, Monkey Forest), and gentle temple visits are great. Steep waterfall trails and volcano hikes may not suit everyone. Booking a patient, English‑speaking driver makes a big difference.

Can I base myself in Ubud for the whole trip?

You can. But many travellers prefer a split stay: Ubud + a beach area (Seminyak, Sanur, Nusa Dua, or the Bukit). Ubud is ideal as a cultural anchor with day trips radiating out.

The Bottom Line

Is Ubud Right for You?

Choose Ubud if you want:

Culture, temples, and daily rituals woven into normal life.
Rice terraces, jungle views, and waterfalls within easy reach.
Yoga, spas, and wellness woven into your holiday, not just a one‑off massage.
A central base for exploring both north and east Bali.

Think twice if you mainly want:

Beach clubs, surfing, and ocean swims → choose Seminyak, Canggu, Uluwatu as your main base.
Absolute quiet with no tourists → look at Sidemen, Amed, North Bali instead, and just visit Ubud on a day trip.

Best Time to Visit Ubud

Ubud is cooler and greener than the coast, but still very much tropical.

Dry Season (approx. April–October):
- Best for hiking, waterfalls, rice terraces, and volcano trips.
- July–September: busiest and most expensive.
Shoulder Months (April–June, September–early November):
- Great balance: lush scenery, fewer crowds than peak, often better accommodation value.
Wet Season (roughly November–March):
- Heavier showers, but hills and rice terraces are incredibly green.
- Some paths and waterfall trails can be muddy; bring proper footwear.
- Good for long‑stayers who can work around rain windows.

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

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