Bali suits honeymooners, families, surfers and wellness travellers alike. Split your stay between the coast and the green hills of Ubud to see both sides of the island.
- Currency
- Indonesian rupiah (IDR)
- Language
- Indonesian and Balinese; English common in tourist areas
- Plugs
- Types C and F
- Time zone
- GMT+8 (WITA)
Best time to visit
April to October is the dry season, with sunny days and lower humidity. November to March brings tropical showers, usually short, and greener landscapes.
Where to stay
- SeminyakBeach clubs, restaurants and boutique shopping on the west coast.
- CangguSurf beaches, cafés and a young, relaxed crowd.
- UbudThe cultural heart in the hills: rice fields, temples, yoga and spa retreats.
- Nusa Dua and UluwatuCalm resort beaches in Nusa Dua; cliffs, surf and sunsets in Uluwatu.
From the airport
Ngurah Rai International (DPS) is in the south near Kuta. Expect around 20 to 45 minutes to Seminyak or Nusa Dua and about 1.5 hours or more to Ubud, depending on traffic. Use a hotel transfer, the official airport taxi counter or a ride-hailing app.
Getting around
There is no rail network. Private drivers by the day are popular and good value; ride-hailing apps work in most areas. Traffic in the south is slow, so plan fewer, longer outings.
Don't miss
- Tegallalang rice terraces near Ubud
- Uluwatu Temple and the evening Kecak dance
- Tanah Lot temple at sunset
- The Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud
- A day trip to Nusa Penida
Good to know
- Foreign visitors pay a one-off tourist levy for Bali; it can be paid online before arrival.
- Wear a sarong and sash in temples; many lend them at the entrance.
- On Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence in March, the whole island shuts down for 24 hours, including the airport.
- Drink bottled or filtered water, and use reef-safe sunscreen.
Plan your trip
Last reviewed October 2026. Rules and timetables change: check official sources before you travel.