The Ultimate 4-Day Ubud Itinerary for First-Timers

Is it your first time in Ubud? You don’t need a whole week to enjoy it. This 4-day Ubud itinerary is the perfect way to experience the best of the town without wasting time on the overrated stuff.

After years of visiting and now living here full-time, I’ve curated the perfect plan that skips the tourist traps and dives into cool temples, social and cool cafes, and authentic cultural spots to check out (including places that are outside Ubud but worth visiting!).

You’ll also find my go-to guesthouse, favourite spa, and tips that make your trip unforgettable.

Ready to experience the real Ubud? Let’s dive in!

Itinerary Overview

The interactive map is colour-coded. Each day of the itinerary has its own colour!

Day 1 (Blue): Monkey Forest, Campuhan Ridge Walk, Water Palace, coconut Ice-cream

Day 2 (Orange): Ubud Palace and Market, Puri Tirta Temple, cooking class, Kecak dance show

Day 3 (Green): Mount Batur Hike, Tukad Cepung Waterfall, jewellery-making class, Ganesha bookshop

Day 4 (Purple): Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Batik-making class, Balinese massage

How To Plan Your 4 Days in Ubud 

• Book your accommodation in Ubud as early as possible, especially if you are visiting from May to August, because places get pricey really quickly! Scroll down for more options 😉

I recommend staying at the Anumana Hotel Ubud, it’s super central and you get to see monkeys on your balcony in the morning! 

-> Check out this blog post for more places to stay in Ubud, split by area and this post specifically for female solo travellers in Ubud

• If you are coming from the airport, reserve your taxi in advance via Klook. This is my go-to option for those days when I have a late flight, I’m tired or have a lot of suitcases. The drive would be about 1 hour, depending on traffic. 

• Make sure you have your travel insurance and eSIM in place. I recommend Safety Wing for your insurance. I’ve been using it for a while, and it’s reliable. For eSIM, I recommend Ubigi, it is affordable, works better than physical SIM cards in Bali, and you can get 10% off with the code OBSERVER10.

• Just like your hotel, tours could also have less availability during peak season. If you are interested in any of the suggestions below or anything from GetYourGuide (best tours site!), reserve your tour in advance!

• Bring a light rain jacket to carry with you just in case. Quick showers are in the books even during dry seasons (thanks to global warming!).

• You can totally visit Ubud during the rainy season, running from November to February, although you might not be able to do all the outdoor activities you had in mind. So you would have to be more flexible. 

Day 1: Monkeys, Nature Walks and Local Treats

On your first day in Ubud, we are going to start with the most famous things to see. You literally can’t go away from this town without checking these locations off your list!

Morning: Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest

Opening hours: 9AM to 6PM.

Put on some comfortable flat sandals or trainers, we are going to the Monkey Forest this morning! If you are going alone, make sure you store your belongings in the lockers provided at the entrance (a few monkeys are wearing some of my golden rings right now, I’ve learnt that the hard way!).

I highly recommend visiting with a guide because even if you secured your things, monkeys are still naughty enough to get your glasses, camera or anything they think is appropriate to steal!

The forest is not just about monkeys and trees; there are actually beautiful temples and a cool arena for cultural shows.

Book this tour to the Monkey Forest for $17 (including entrance fees)!🐒

LUNCH BREAK: If you are looking for some places for lunch. Check out Suka Espresso for Western food or Warung Krisna for local food!

Afternoon: Walk the Campuhan Ridge

Next, we are going to Campuhan Ridge Walk. It’s an easy hike with beautiful views over rice fields and forest.

This walk might get busy, so if you want to take pictures, it’s better to go early in the morning. Otherwise, after lunch is a good time, and you will be happy to know the hike ends with some cute cafes, so you can get a nice cool drink by the end of it!

If you are passionate about hikes and walks, check out the Trails App, it’s free, and it guides you through every path step by step. Love it!

Extra stop: Saraswati Temple (Water Palace)

Opening hours: 8AM to 6.30PM.

The previous stop would only be a few hours long, so if you still have it in you, head over to the majestic Water Palace.

This stunning palace is surrounded by water, trees and water lilies. The entrance ticket is $2.20, and you need to make sure you are properly dressed.

Check out the “do and don’t” page on their website for more info.

DINNER BREAK: Go to Watercress Cafe (upstairs!), their food is delicious, and if you are lucky, they might have live music on too. I go there so often that I’m now registered as a member (their chocolate cake is too good, that’s why!)

End the Day at Tukies Coconut Shop

CLOSING at 11PM!

After dinner, reward yourself with a coconut ice cream from Tukies. They only provide the coconut flavour, but they provide a good variety of toppings!

If you love gelato, make sure to check this post on the best gelato in Ubud or the best vegan desserts in Ubud!

Day 2: Cultural Ceremonies and Cooking Classes

Ubud is not only renowned for its natural beauty but also for its rich cultural heritage. Today, we will do all the things that will make you fall in love with Bali!

Morning: Ubud Palace and Market

Opening hours: 7AM to 5PM.

This morning, we will start with Ubud Palace, also known as Puri Saren Agung. This is not only a beautiful historical site, but it’s also a meeting point for local people. That’s what I like the most about Ubud Palace (I also like that it’s free, obviously!).

During the day, I would just sit and watch local children learning Balinese dance moves. This really fills my heart.

After this, you can just cross the road and head to Ubud Market. If you need to get some souvenirs, here you can get a few bits!

I’m normally attracted to home decor products such as placemats or coasters, which are most of the time made out of rattan and shells. So pretty!

LUNCH BREAK: Today, we are going to a local restaurant called Compound Warung. They do the most amazing Soto Ayam, which is a vegetable soup with chicken bits inside.

Afternoon: Puri Tirta Temple and Cooking Class

Opening hours for the Puri Tirta Temple: 8AM to 6PM.

After filling up the belly, we are now moving to Puri Tirta Temple. This is my favourite temple above all because it gets very busy with local people, and you really get to see how their religious practice works.

You can also take part in a purification practice. If you need guidance, you can ask one of the locals (and tip them later) or book this experience with a guide 🛕

Post that, roll up your sleeves for a cooking class! These classes are a lot of fun! You get to learn how to make your favourite Balinese dishes and meet other travellers.

Secure your cooking class here 🍲You will get to pick your ingredients from a local market and learn how to make the most authentic dishes!

Evening Activity: Traditional Balinese Dance Performance

I don’t think you are going to need dinner after that, so I’ll skip it and go straight to our evening activity! We will watch the Kecak Fire Dance!

This hypnotic performance combines rhythmic chanting, fire, and dramatic storytelling drawn from the Ramayana. It’s one of the most atmospheric cultural shows in Bali. I watched it several times and I would definitely see it again!

Arrive around 6:30 PM to get a good seat, as the performance usually starts at 7:00 PM and draws a crowd.

Another great setting for this show is Uluwatu, where it’s performed on top of a cliff. While it’s definitely suggestive, I have to say I prefer Kecak dance in Ubud because it feels more authentic to me!

You can get your tickets during the day around Ubud Palace (in person) or book them online. I always use GetYourGuide for my tickets!

Day 3: Sunrise Hike, Waterfall, and Local Crafts

Bali is known for its waterfalls and fantastic sunset hikes! Prepare yourself for a full day out exploring these incredible wonders. 

Morning: Mount Batur Sunrise Trek

Start your day before dawn with a guided hike up Mount Batur. The trail takes you across volcanic terrain, gradually leading to the summit where you’ll watch the sky shift from deep blue to soft orange and pink as the sun rises.

It’s a rewarding experience and one of the most popular treks in Bali. Make sure you wear different “layers” of clothes because it’s cold in the beginning, warm during the hike and cold on top!

LUNCH BREAK: After the hike, I would definitely go to Casa Curandera or a big brunch or lunch fix. It’s a mix of Colombian and Italian-inspired food with vegan and vegetarian options.

If you need a refreshing drink, make sure to order “lemonada de coco” it’s super refreshing and it goes with every food you would pick from the menu!

Afternoon Tukad Cepung Waterfall

Continue your trip with a visit to Tukad Cepung Waterfall. After a short walk through jungle-covered paths, you’ll reach this unique spot where water flows down through a cave-like opening.

It’s a pretty easy hike down to reach the waterfall, I’ve done it in my flat sandals – AND I’M CLUMSY! So you will be ok!

I visited this waterfall as part of a full-day tour with GetYourGuide. It also included a stop at Tegallalang rice fields and other nearby waterfalls! Loved it!

DINNER BREAK: Dress up! This evening we are going to Nusa By/Suka. This restaurant is FANCY. Perfect for dates if you know what I mean. But it doesn’t have to be romantic, I took Mum too!

Food is delicious here and it’s right in the centre of Ubud, so you can go for a nice stroll after! Remember to reserve in advance if you can.

Day 4: Temples, Rice Fields and Relaxation

Your 4 day itinerary in Ubud wouldn’t be complete without a SPA session and last cultural spots! Let’s go!

Morning: Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Make your way up to Bedugul to visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, one of Bali’s most iconic landmarks. Sitting right on the edge of Lake Beratan, this Hindu temple seems to float on the water; it’s so beautiful!

I’ve been on a rainy day, and even then it was just perfect! It’s definitely worth the ride.

I would recommend hiring a driver for the day, it’s really affordable, and you would have the flexibility to visit anything you want on your last day!

Afternoon: Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Back in Ubud, stop by the Tegalalang Rice Terraces. If you haven’t stopped here already for different tours, this is the time for you to enjoy it!

These layered fields are one of Bali’s most photographed landscapes, and for good reason. They are stunning!!!

DINNER CHOICE: If you haven’t had the chance to have dinner yet, head to Sayan Point. Here you can watch the most amazing sunset over Ubud. They serve traditional Indonesian food with a few Western options! A must on your last day!

Where to Stay in Ubud

I’ve stayed in Ubud more times than I can count, and there really is something for everyone! Here are a few places I’d recommend checking out:

• [Luxury Option] COMO Uma Ubud: This is literally the place where all influencers would go. Luxurious and stunning – great to take pictures too, obviously! If you want to treat yourself, this is the place to go!

• [Mid-range Option] Bisma Eight: I love the location of this resort and the swimming pool. You can actually witness some awesome sunsets from there!

• [Budget Option] Pecatu Guesthouse: This is a family-run guesthouse with a beautiful pool on the rooftop and delicious breakfast! Highly recommend!

How to Get Around Ubud

You can definitely walk to most places, especially if you are based right in the centre of Ubud!

Otherwise, the best way to move from place to place within Ubud is via Grab scooter.

However, you have to remember that it only serves Ubud, not anywhere outside town. They can probably drop you off, but none would pick you up! Same thing if you order a Grab car!

The easiest way to get outside Ubud with comfort is to get a driver. This is a great option, especially when you don’t have much time on your hands.

If it’s your first time in Bali, read this useful guide for first-timers!

Best ATMs if You Need Cash

While Ubud is quite card-friendly, it’s always good to be prepared with cash. 

These are the most reliable ATM points where I felt safe, and there was always cash available: 

• By the Coco supermarket (very close to the Monkey Forest) 

• By the petrol station close to Pepito Market.

Supermarkets in Ubud

While local residents tend to frequent traditional markets for their daily needs, there are a few supermarkets that cater to foreigners:

• Peipto Market: This supermarket offers a wide range of local and international products. It’s quite pricey compared to Balinese prices, but it’s a really high-quality supermarket. Read the full list of supermarkets in Ubud in this blog post!

• Small Marts: There are small convenience stores, such as M Mart or Circle K can be found in various locations throughout Ubud.

FAQs On This 4 Day Ubud Itinerary

If you are not sure which card would work best with different currencies, I would recommend Wise! It’s the best for travelling!

One More Tip

I hope this blog post has been useful for you. If you’ve never been to Ubud and you don’t want to feel overwhelmed with sightseeing, I’ve actually compiled a list of 31 things to do in Ubud (from a resident’s perspective) and what to avoid. This way, you can just pick and choose whatever you feel like on the day.

Enjoy Ubud, I promise you will come back – everyone does!

Ciao for now,

Silvia x

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