Let me tell you, planning a Bali tour trip for the first time is as exciting as it is overwhelming. I remember sitting in front of my laptop with at least 20 tabs open, wondering how this small Indonesian island could have so much to offer. Beaches, temples, waterfalls, rice terraces—it was like the island refused to let me pick just one vibe. Bali truly is a mix of everything, and that’s both a blessing and a challenge. If you’re anything like me, you’re probably overthinking your itinerary already. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with some tips and lessons learned the hard way.
Picking Your Bali Base: Where to Stay
The first big decision on any Bali trip is figuring out where to stay. Trust me, Bali isn’t tiny—it takes time to get around, and traffic can be wild. The vibe in Ubud is totally different from Kuta, Seminyak, or Canggu, so choosing the right area for your travel style is key.
- Kuta and Seminyak: If you’re into nightlife, shopping, and beaches packed with action, these areas are perfect. Think clubs, beach bars, and sunset cocktails by the pool. That said, Kuta can be loud and a bit chaotic.
- Canggu: A favorite for digital nomads and surfers. It’s laid-back but still buzzing with hip cafés and co-working spaces. The waves here? Insane. If surfing’s your thing, you’ll love it.
- Ubud: Picture green rice terraces, yoga retreats, and all the wellness vibes. Ubud is quieter and more centered around nature and culture. It’s great for unwinding or exploring Bali’s more spiritual side.
- Jimbaran or Nusa Dua: Perfect for families or honeymooners looking for luxury resorts and calm beaches.
I ended up splitting my trip between Ubud and Seminyak, and that worked out great. Staying in two spots gave me a taste of both Bali’s cultural and beachy sides. If you’re there for a week or more, I’d definitely recommend dividing your time like this.
Transport: The Good, the Bad, and the Downright Annoying
Let’s talk transportation. Bali doesn’t really do public transport, so you’ve got a few options:
- Scooters: The go-to for locals and tourists alike. Renting one is cheap (around $5-7/day), but riding in Bali isn’t for the faint of heart. Drivers can be unpredictable, and road rules? Pretty flexible. If you’ve never ridden a scooter before, Bali’s traffic might not be the best place to start.
- Car and Driver: Hiring a Bali private driver for the day costs around $40-$60. This was a lifesaver for temple-hopping days or trips to remote spots like Lempuyang Temple (hello, Instagram-worthy Gates of Heaven). Plus, drivers are often happy to double as unofficial tour guides.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Apps like Grab or Gojek work in Bali, but not everywhere. Some areas (looking at you, Ubud) have local taxi restrictions, so always check if you can get a ride before relying on these.
My personal advice? Unless you’re super confident on a scooter, stick with a driver for long journeys. It saves you a lot of stress, especially when navigating those narrow mountain roads.
Read also: Bali Tour Package And Activities References
The Must-See Spots (and Some Overrated Ones)
Bali island is loaded with tourist hotspots, but not all of them live up to the hype. Here are some I personally loved—and a few I found a bit meh:
Loved:
- Tegalalang Rice Terraces: Sure, it’s touristy, but it’s also stunning. Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
- Tirta Empul Temple: The holy water purification ritual here was one of the most unique experiences of my trip. Even as a tourist, you’re welcome to participate.
- Nusa Penida: This island off the coast of Bali is unreal. Kelingking Beach (aka T-Rex Beach) is jaw-dropping, but getting there involves a steep, sketchy hike. Wear good shoes, not flip-flops like I did. Rookie mistake.
Overrated (in my opinion):
- Tanah Lot Temple: Beautiful, but it’s packed with people, and the commercial vibe around it kind of kills the magic.
- Monkey Forest in Ubud: I get the appeal, but those monkeys are aggressive. One tried to snatch my bag, and let me tell you, I did NOT enjoy the chase scene that followed.
Food: Bring Your Appetite
Bali’s food scene is next level. From fancy restaurants to warungs (small local eateries), you’ll find something amazing everywhere. Here’s what you absolutely need to try:
- Nasi Goreng: Indonesian fried rice with an egg on top. Simple, cheap, and ridiculously good.
- Satay: Skewered meat grilled over charcoal, usually served with peanut sauce.
- Babi Guling: Balinese roasted suckling pig. You’ll find this at local warungs, and it’s a must-try.
- Smoothie Bowls: Bali’s café game is strong, and you’ll find Instagrammable smoothie bowls pretty much everywhere. They’re pricey compared to local food but worth it for the flavor and presentation.
One thing I learned: Always ask for food to be mild if you’re not into spicy dishes. Balinese chili is no joke.
Budgeting: Bali on a Shoestring vs. Splashing Out
The beauty of a Bali tour trip is that it works for all budgets. You can stay in a luxury villa with a private pool for $100/night or find budget hostels for $10. Meals at warungs often cost under $3, while fancy restaurants can set you back $30 or more per person.
Read also: Bali 5 Days Itinerary
If you’re on a budget, here’s where you can save without missing out:
- Accommodations: Look for guesthouses or smaller hotels. Many include breakfast, and some are as charming as high-end spots.
- Transport: Use scooters or share a driver with other travelers you meet.
- Food: Stick to warungs for cheap and authentic meals.
A Few Hard-Learned Lessons
- Plan for Traffic: It can take two hours to go what looks like a short distance on Google Maps. Always buffer time for delays.
- Pack Smart: Bali is hot and humid, so pack light clothes. But don’t forget a sarong for visiting temples—they’re often required.
- Respect Local Customs: Bali is deeply spiritual, and it’s important to show respect. For example, during Nyepi (Day of Silence), the entire island shuts down—even the airport. Plan accordingly.
Bali is one of those places that leaves an impression long after you leave. Whether you’re soaking in the sunsets on Seminyak Beach or marveling at a temple in Ubud, it’s hard not to fall for the island’s charm. Just make sure to bring your sense of adventure—and maybe a little patience for the traffic.
Adventure Beyond the Guidebooks
While Bali’s main attractions are spectacular, some of my favorite moments happened off the beaten path. Exploring lesser-known spots not only gave me a sense of adventure but also allowed me to experience a quieter, more authentic side of the island.
One day, on a whim, I decided to visit Tukad Cepung Waterfall, a hidden gem (oops, there’s that phrase) near Bangli. It’s a waterfall tucked inside a cave, and when the sunlight hits just right, the entire place feels magical. Getting there wasn’t exactly easy—a steep hike and slippery rocks made me question my life choices—but the view at the end was 100% worth it. It’s one of those spots where you can hear your own thoughts and forget the world for a while.
Another surprise was a visit to Sidemen Valley, an area not far from Ubud that’s like stepping into a postcard. Imagine endless rice fields, small villages, and almost no tourists. I spent hours walking the trails and chatting with locals who were happy to share their stories about Balinese life. It felt worlds away from the hustle of Canggu or Seminyak.
If you’re up for a trek, Mount Batur’s sunrise hike is legendary. I’ll be honest, waking up at 3 a.m. to climb a volcano wasn’t high on my list of “fun vacation ideas,” but peer pressure won out. By the time I reached the summit and saw the sunrise over the clouds, though, I totally got the hype. The best part? The guides cooked breakfast using steam from the volcano. Bananas steamed in volcanic heat? Weirdly delicious.
Shopping in Bali: From Souvenirs to Sarongs
I didn’t plan on doing much shopping in Bali, but let me tell you, it’s impossible to resist. The markets are full of colorful sarongs, handmade jewelry, and home decor that screams “boho chic.” My favorite spot? Ubud Market. It’s chaotic and a bit overwhelming, but you can find some beautiful, handcrafted items there. Just be ready to haggle—it’s part of the culture.
Start by offering half the asking price and work your way up. Most vendors expect it, and honestly, it can be kind of fun once you get the hang of it.
For something more curated, check out the boutique shops in Seminyak. Places like Kim Soo Home and Magali Pascal are pricier but perfect if you’re after high-quality clothing or unique decor. I splurged on a rattan bag that now reminds me of Bali every time I use it.
Cultural Experiences You Shouldn’t Skip
One thing that sets Bali apart is its rich culture. You don’t just visit Bali—you feel it. From the daily offerings (called canang sari) placed outside homes and businesses to the grand ceremonies held at temples, spirituality is woven into every part of life here.
If you have the chance, attend a traditional dance performance. The Kecak Fire Dance in Uluwatu was mesmerizing. Picture dozens of men chanting in unison while dancers in intricate costumes tell stories from the Ramayana epic. And the setting? A cliffside temple overlooking the ocean at sunset. It’s goosebump-worthy.
Speaking of temples, you’ll probably visit plenty, but one experience I didn’t expect to enjoy as much as I did was taking part in a Balinese cooking class. It started with a trip to the local market, where I learned about the spices and ingredients that make Balinese food so flavorful. The cooking itself was hands-on and messy (I’ll admit, my sambal wasn’t the prettiest), but the meal at the end? Absolute heaven.
Island-Hopping: Beyond Mainland Bali
If you have extra time, don’t just stick to mainland Bali. The nearby islands of Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan are a short boat ride away and offer a more untouched vibe.
Nusa Penida is the most famous, thanks to spots like Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong. The views are jaw-dropping, but be prepared—the roads are rough, and getting around isn’t as easy as on Bali. Still, it’s worth the effort.
Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan are quieter and great for snorkeling or just relaxing. The Devil’s Tear on Nusa Lembongan was one of the most dramatic seascapes I’ve ever seen, with waves crashing against the cliffs and sending spray high into the air. Just don’t stand too close unless you’re okay getting drenched.
The Unexpected Stuff
No trip is without its hiccups, and Bali was no exception. Like the time I underestimated the strength of the waves at Padang Padang Beach and got absolutely wiped out. Or when I got caught in a sudden downpour while riding a scooter and had to wait it out under a random warung’s tin roof. These moments weren’t exactly fun at the time, but they’re the stories I tell now.
One thing to remember: Bali isn’t perfect. The beaches in some areas, especially Kuta, can be crowded and littered during certain seasons. And yes, the traffic can test your patience. But these little annoyances pale in comparison to everything the island offers.
At the end of the day—oops, I mean, when all’s said and done—you don’t visit Bali just for the Instagram shots (though there are plenty of those). You go for the feeling it leaves you with. The kind you can’t put into words but keep trying to, anyway.
So, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for an adventure. Bali’s waiting.
