In this guide
This seven-day plan balances beach time with Bali's culture and nature, and keeps driving to a minimum by moving hotels only once. Adjust the order to your arrival time and the weather.
Day 1: Arrive and unwind in the south
Land at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) and transfer to Seminyak, Canggu or Uluwatu. Take a swim, then watch the sunset from the beach. If you arrive late, keep the first evening simple: a warung dinner close to your hotel.
Day 2: Uluwatu cliffs and beaches
Spend the morning at a Bukit beach such as Padang Padang, Bingin or Melasti. In the late afternoon visit Uluwatu Temple on its clifftop and stay for the Kecak fire dance at sunset. End with seafood at Jimbaran Bay.
Day 3: Nusa Penida day trip
Take an early fast boat from Sanur to Nusa Penida. Visit Kelingking Beach viewpoint, Broken Beach and Angel's Billabong, or join a snorkelling tour to see manta rays. Roads are bumpy, so an organised tour with a driver saves stress.
Day 4: Move to Ubud
Drive to Ubud (about 1–1.5 hours from the south) with stops at Tegenungan Waterfall or the Batubulan stone carvers. In the afternoon walk the Campuhan Ridge, then see a traditional dance performance in the evening.
Day 5: Rice terraces and water temples
Start early at the Tegallalang rice terraces, then visit Tirta Empul water temple and Gunung Kawi, an ancient rock-cut temple complex. After lunch with rice-field views, explore the Sacred Monkey Forest and Ubud's art market.
Day 6: Mount Batur sunrise or the highlands
Option A: hike Mount Batur for sunrise (pick-up around 2–3 am), relax in natural hot springs afterwards, and nap in the afternoon. Option B: a slower highland day with Ulun Danu Beratan lake temple, the Jatiluwih rice terraces and a waterfall such as Leke Leke.
Day 7: Spa, shopping and departure
Book a Balinese massage, pick up souvenirs and enjoy a final lunch. Leave plenty of time for the airport transfer: traffic towards the airport can be slow, especially in the late afternoon.
Getting around and budget
Hiring a driver for full sightseeing days (Days 4–6) is usually the easiest option; agree the price and stops in advance. For costs per day, see our Bali trip cost guide.
Want a version for your exact dates and interests? Our AI planner can build one in seconds. Then compare cheap flights to Bali.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I stay for 7 days in Bali?
A common split is three nights in the south (Seminyak, Canggu or Uluwatu) and four nights in Ubud, or the reverse. Moving once keeps travel time low.
Can I see Bali without a scooter?
Yes. Hire a private driver for sightseeing days and use ride-hailing apps for short trips. It's comfortable and good value, especially for families and groups.
Is one week enough for Bali?
One week is enough for a great first trip covering beaches, Ubud and one island day trip. With ten days you can add the north or Lombok and the Gilis.
Prices are estimates and can change. Check entry rules, opening times and safety advice before you travel. Some links are partner links: if you book, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
