Bali, Indonesia Travel Guide

Discover Bali, the Island of Gods, where stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes create a tropical paradise for every traveler.

Bali, known as the Island of Gods, is a tropical paradise in Indonesia. This beautiful island is famous for its stunning beaches, lush green landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the bustling streets of Kuta to the serene rice terraces of Ubud, Bali offers something for every type of traveler. The island is rich in cultural heritage, with its many temples and traditional ceremonies providing a glimpse into the local way of life. One of the most iconic sites is the Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. The temple is a perfect spot to watch the sunset and witness a traditional Kecak dance performance. For nature lovers, Bali is a haven. The island is home to many natural wonders, including the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud, the breathtaking waterfalls of Gitgit and Sekumpul, and the volcanic Mount Batur. Adventure seekers can enjoy activities like surfing in Canggu, diving in Tulamben, or trekking through the lush jungles. Bali is also a destination for relaxation and wellness. The island boasts numerous spa resorts, yoga retreats, and wellness centers that offer a range of treatments and activities to rejuvenate the body and mind. The local cuisine, with its mix of spices and flavors, is another highlight, with dishes like Nasi Goreng and Satay being a must-try. Whether you are looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, Bali has it all. Its unique blend of natural beauty, rich traditions, and modern amenities makes it a must-visit destination for any traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bali.

Visit during the dry season (April to October) for the best weather.
Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples.
Bargain at local markets, but do so politely.
Rent a scooter to explore the island at your own pace.
Try the local food at warungs for an authentic culinary experience.
Use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth to avoid stomach issues.

Neighbourhoods in Bali

Ubud

Kuta

Nusa Dua

Jimbaran

Canggu

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Bali

Explore Bali: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Bali

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Tanah Lot

Discover the breathtaking beauty and spiritual essence of Tanah Lot, Bali's iconic coastal temple, famous for its stunning sunsets and rich heritage.

4.6

Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park

Experience Bali's cultural heart at Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park, showcasing stunning sculptures and vibrant performances amid lush landscapes.

4.5

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Experience the magic of the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud, a unique blend of nature, culture, and playful monkeys in the heart of Bali.

4.5

Ceking Rice Terrace

Discover the enchanting Ceking Rice Terrace in Bali, where breathtaking views and rich cultural experiences await every traveler.

4.4

Best landmarks in Bali

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Best Landmarks

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Tanah Lot

Experience the breathtaking beauty and spiritual significance of Tanah Lot, Bali's iconic sea temple with stunning ocean views and vibrant culture.

4.6

Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park

Discover the majesty of Balinese culture at Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park, featuring stunning landscapes and captivating traditional performances.

4.5

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Discover the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud, Bali – a stunning nature preserve filled with playful monkeys, ancient temples, and lush greenery.

4.5

Ceking Rice Terrace

Experience the stunning beauty of Ceking Rice Terrace in Tegallalang, Bali, where nature and culture blend seamlessly in a breathtaking landscape.

4.4

Best restaurants in Bali

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Best Restaurants

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Ling-Ling's Bali

Experience the best of Asian fusion cuisine at Ling-Ling's Bali, where every meal is a celebration of flavors in a chic setting.

4.8

Gooseberry Restaurant

Discover exquisite flavors at Gooseberry Restaurant in Bali - where fine dining meets casual elegance amidst breathtaking scenery.

4.8

Cuca Restaurant

Discover the vibrant flavors at Cuca Restaurant in Jimbaran - where exquisite tapas meet innovative cocktails amidst Bali's stunning scenery.

4.8

Warung Nia Balinese Food & Pork Ribs

Experience authentic Balinese cuisine at Warung Nia in Seminyak – home to delicious pork ribs and traditional flavors.

4.8

Best bars in Bali

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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La Plancha

Experience the vibrant culture of Bali at La Plancha, a beachfront bar in Seminyak known for its colorful ambiance and delicious cocktails.

4.4

Rock Bar

Discover Rock Bar in Bali – a breathtaking cliffside venue offering stunning ocean views, exquisite cocktails, and vibrant nightlife.

4.5

Old Man's

Old Man's in Canggu: A lively bar and restaurant with stunning beach views, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife, perfect for tourists seeking fun in Bali.

4.4

The Forge Bali

Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Bali at The Forge Bali, a gastropub and sports bar offering delicious food and a lively atmosphere.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Bali

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Best Nightclubs

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Sky Garden Bali

Experience the electrifying nightlife of Bali at Sky Garden, a premier nightclub offering views, music, and unforgettable memories.

4.2

ShiShi Nightclub & Izakaya Lounge

Discover the ultimate nightlife and dining experience at ShiShi Nightclub & Izakaya Lounge in Bali, where vibrant energy meets exquisite Asian cuisine.

4.4

Boshe VVIP Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Boshe VVIP Club, Bali's premier karaoke bar and night club, where unforgettable memories await!

4.5

Bounty Discotheque

Experience the electrifying ambiance of Bounty Discotheque, a premier disco club in Kuta, where unforgettable nights come alive with music and dance.

4.1

Best shops in Bali

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Best Shops

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Beachwalk Shopping Center

Discover a blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Beachwalk Shopping Center, the ultimate destination in Bali's Kuta.

4.5

Krisna Toko Oleh Oleh Khas Bali

Explore the vibrant offerings of Krisna Toko Oleh Oleh Khas Bali, where authentic Balinese souvenirs, snacks, and crafts await every traveler.

4.5

Krisna Oleh - Oleh Bali Sunset Road

Immerse yourself in Balinese culture at Krisna Oleh - Oleh Bali, the ultimate destination for unique souvenirs and local delights.

4.5

Mal Bali Galeria

Explore the vibrant Mal Bali Galeria in Kuta, a shopping paradise blending retail, dining, and entertainment in the heart of Bali.

4.5

Explore Bali on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Bali, mapped for you.

Bali Essentials

Bali is served by Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), located in Denpasar. The airport receives numerous international flights from major cities around the world. From the airport, you can hire a taxi, use a ride-sharing app, or arrange for a private transfer to your accommodation. Domestic flights also connect Bali to other parts of Indonesia, with frequent services from Jakarta, Surabaya, and other major cities.
Getting around Bali can be done through various modes of transportation. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab are widely available. Renting a scooter is a popular option among tourists, but ensure you have an international driving permit and wear a helmet. Bemos (local minibuses) are an inexpensive way to travel short distances, although they can be crowded. Car rentals with drivers are also available for more comfortable travel around the island.
The official currency of Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). ATMs are readily available in major tourist areas, and credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting rural areas or local markets. Money changers are also available, but ensure you use reputable ones to avoid scams.
Bali is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it's important to stay vigilant. Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and always keep an eye on your belongings. Be cautious of scams, especially when exchanging money or booking tours. In case of natural disasters like earthquakes or volcanic eruptions, follow the advice of local authorities.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Bali has hospitals and clinics in major areas such as Denpasar, Kuta, and Ubud. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are widely available, and many pharmacists speak English. For police assistance, you can visit the nearest police station or contact the tourist police at 0361-754599.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always wear a sarong and sash when entering temples. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous. Don't haggle aggressively with drivers. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a slight bow. A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't use your left hand to eat or pass food, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Bali like a local, visit traditional markets such as Pasar Badung in Denpasar, where you can buy fresh produce and local handicrafts. Participate in local ceremonies and festivals, which are an integral part of Balinese culture. Try traditional Balinese food at warungs (local eateries) for an authentic culinary experience. For a unique adventure, rent a scooter and explore the island's hidden beaches and scenic rice terraces.

When is the best time to visit Bali?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Bali

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Bali. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloOm Swastiastu
  [om-swa-sti-astu]
- GoodbyeSampai jumpa
  [sam-pai-jum-pa]
- YesIya
  [ee-ya]
- NoTidak
  [tee-dak]
- Please/You're welcomeMatur suksma
  [ma-tur-sooks-ma]
- Thank youTerima kasih
  [te-ree-ma-ka-see]
- Excuse me/SorryMaaf
  [ma-af]
- How are you?Apa kabar?
  [a-pa-ka-bar]
- Fine. And you?Baik. Bagaimana denganmu?
  [ba-ik. ba-gai-ma-na den-gan-mu]
- Do you speak English?Bisa bicara bahasa Inggris?
  [bee-sa bee-tsa-ra ba-ha-sa ing-gris]
- I don't understandSaya tidak mengerti
  [sa-ya tee-dak men-ger-tee]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaya ingin melihat menu, tolong
  [sa-ya in-gin me-li-hat me-nu, to-long]
- I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging
  [sa-ya tee-dak ma-kan dai-ning]
- Cheers!Selamat minum!
  [se-la-mat mi-num]
- I would like to pay, pleaseSaya ingin membayar, tolong
  [sa-ya in-gin mem-ba-yar, to-long]
- Help!Tolong!
  [to-long]
- Go away!Pergi!
  [per-gi]
- Call the Police!Panggil polisi!
  [pang-gil po-li-si]
- Call a doctor!Panggil dokter!
  [pang-gil dok-ter]
- I'm lostSaya tersesat
  [sa-ya ter-se-sat]
- I'm illSaya sakit
  [sa-ya sa-kit]
- I'd like to buy...Saya ingin membeli...
  [sa-ya in-gin mem-bel-i]
- I'm just lookingSaya hanya melihat-lihat
  [sa-ya hun-ya me-li-hat-li-hat]
- How much is it?Berapa harganya?
  [be-ra-pa har-ga-nya]
- That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal
  [i-tu ter-la-lu ma-hal]
- Can you lower the price?Bisa ditawar?
  [bee-sa dee-ta-war]
- What time is it?Jam berapa sekarang?
  [jam be-ra-pa se-ka-rang]
- It's one o'clockJam satu
  [jam sa-tu]
- Half past (10)Setengah (sepuluh)
  [se-ten-gah (se-pu-luh)]
- MorningPagi
  [pa-gi]
- AfternoonSiang
  [si-ang]
- EveningSore
  [so-re]
- YesterdayKemarin
  [ke-ma-rin]
- TodayHari ini
  [ha-ri i-ni]
- TomorrowBesok
  [be-sok]
- 1Satu
  [sa-tu]
- 2Dua
  [du-a]
- 3Tiga
  [ti-ga]
- 4Empat
  [em-pat]
- 5Lima
  [li-ma]
- 6Enam
  [e-nam]
- 7Tujuh
  [tu-juh]
- 8Delapan
  [de-la-pan]
- 9Sembilan
  [sem-bi-lan]
- 10Sepuluh
  [se-pu-luh]
- Where's a/the...?Dimana ada/...?
  [di-ma-na a-da/...?]
- What's the address?Alamatnya di mana?
  [a-lam-at-nya di ma-na]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Bisakah Anda menunjukkan kepada saya (di peta)?
  [bee-sa-kah an-da me-nun-juk-kan ke-pa-da sa-ya (di pe-ta)]
- When's the next (bus)?Kapan bus selanjutnya?
  [ka-pan bus se-lan-jut-nya]
- A ticket (to ....)Tiket (ke ....)
  [ti-ket (ke ....)]

History of Bali

Bali’s history dates back to prehistoric times. Early human remains and artifacts suggest that Bali was first inhabited around 2000 BCE by Austronesian people. These early settlers brought with them agricultural techniques and animistic beliefs, which laid the foundation for Bali’s cultural development.
The influence of Indian culture and religion began to permeate Bali around the 1st century CE, as evidenced by early inscriptions and temple ruins. By the 9th century, Bali had become a predominantly Hindu society, integrated into the larger Hindu-Buddhist Majapahit Empire from Java. This period saw the construction of many temples and the establishment of the caste system, which still influences Balinese society today.
In the 14th and 15th centuries, the Majapahit Empire began to decline due to internal strife and the spread of Islam in the Indonesian archipelago. Many Hindu nobles, priests, and artisans fled to Bali, bringing with them their culture and traditions. This migration reinforced Hinduism in Bali, even as Islam became the dominant religion in the rest of Indonesia.
The first European contact with Bali was made by Portuguese explorers in the early 16th century. However, it was the Dutch who eventually colonized the island in the 19th century. The Dutch East India Company initially focused on trade, but by the mid-1800s, they had established political control. The colonial period was marked by several violent conflicts, including the infamous Puputan wars, where Balinese royals and their followers chose mass ritual suicide over surrender.
During World War II, Bali was occupied by Japanese forces from 1942 to 1945. This period was characterized by harsh military rule and forced labor. However, it also sparked nationalist sentiments among the Balinese, contributing to the broader Indonesian struggle for independence.
Following Japan’s surrender in 1945, Indonesia declared its independence. However, it was not until 1949 that the Dutch officially recognized Indonesia’s sovereignty. Bali became an integral part of the newly formed Republic of Indonesia. The post-independence period saw Bali recover and rebuild, with a focus on preserving its unique cultural heritage while integrating into the modern Indonesian state.
In the latter half of the 20th century, Bali transformed into a major international tourist destination. The island’s stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality attracted visitors from around the world. Despite the pressures of modernization and tourism, Balinese people have managed to maintain their traditional practices and rituals, making Bali a living museum of its rich history and culture.