Is Ubud Worth Visiting In 2026? Insights From A Resident

Wondering if Ubud is actually worth visiting, or just another hyped-up tourist trap? That was me five years ago. I didn’t know what I was looking for, but I knew the name kept coming up in travel blogs and conversations. So I booked a ticket.

And what I found here changed my life.

I discovered peace, deep connection to nature, and a culture that made me feel like I belonged. I promised myself I’d return… and now I live here full time.

But Ubud isn’t just beautiful, it’s meaningful. Especially if you’re a solo traveller looking for more than beach clubs and party scenes.

So, is Ubud worth visiting? My answer is a firm yes and here are the real reasons why.

#1 Ubud Is A Spiritual Place: From Temples To Cool Events At Cafes

Three women wade in a flowing waterfall stream during what appears to be a Balinese purification ceremony. They’re dressed in sarongs and surrounded by floral offerings placed on the rocks near the water. [From Blog post: Is Ubud worth visiting]

Ubud is known for its spiritual energy, and you can experience it in different ways!

One of my favourites is definitely the purification ceremony at the temple. I’ve done it many times on my own and with my mum (see image above) and it’s incredible!

I would recommend it even if you are not a spiritual person. It will make you feel liberated and fresh, such a beautiful feeling! You also get to know all about this Balinese tradition and why it’s so important for locals.

👉 Book your purification ceremony on Getyourguide.com. This is where I booked it the first time after a friend recommended it! This is the most reliable site for it and you can also read +1000 reviews from other travellers!

Yes, you’ll find world-class yoga spaces offering everything from vinyasa to sound healing and amazing yoga retreats.

For my yoga classes, my go-to are Yoga Barn and Alchemy (they are some of the best yoga studios in Ubud!), but there are many smaller ones you can find by just walking around Ubud!

Spirituality is also extended beyond yoga studios and temples – in fact, cafes incorporate herbal medicine, cacao ceremonies, or meditation sessions, giving you plenty of ways to slow down and reconnect.

One of these cafes is Sayuri, I’m a regular at their cacao ceremonies. If you see me, come to say hi! They also have live music and other really cool events every day.

#2 You Can Do Unforgettable Walks And Hikes

A lush rice paddy in Bali reflects the bright blue sky dotted with white clouds. Rows of young rice plants stretch into the distance, with a traditional thatched-roof hut and tropical trees along the horizon.

If you love being outdoors, Ubud delivers.

From the famous Campuhan Ridge Walk to hidden rice field trails, nature is always just a few steps away. The Sacred Monkey Forest is a popular attraction, especially if it’s your first time in Bali.

I would recommend going for these walks early in the morning or around sunset time, there will be less crowds and you’re not going to melt!

And Ubud is also a good base if you’re planning a sunrise hike up Mount Batur—it’s only about an hour and a half away.

🌋 Book a Mount Batur sunrise hike here on GetYourGuide.

#3 It’s Rich in Traditions Despite Being Touristy

Is Ubud (Bali) worth visiting? Offering in Ubud, Bali

Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali. This is where you’ll see daily offerings being laid (see image above), temple ceremonies in full swing, and traditional dances performed regularly at venues like the Ubud Palace—home to Bali’s royal family.

Watching traditional dances is one of the best things to do in Ubud, even as a resident, I have to say I keep going to these shows – they never get old!

👉 I use GetYourGuide to book the Ubud Palace dance show when friends visit—it’s the easiest way to get reliable tickets without dealing with street vendors. Prices start from $6! Make sure to go at least 30 minutes earlier to secure the best spots!

#4 Nature-Based Accommodation

Is Ubud (Bali) worth visiting? Accommodation in Ubud. Close up on the outdoor shower. — **Kebun Indah, Ubud**

Ubud can really give you the chance to be connected with nature all the time, even while you’re taking a shower. You can choose to stay in Ubud centre or outside. It really depends on how much time you have and the experience you are looking for.

These are my go-to accommodations in Ubud as a female solo traveller. They are mainly in Ubud and in walk-friendly areas!

But you can totally go a bit outside the centre if you want to be immersed in the rice fields and be more isolated.

👉 Kebun Indah is my old time favourite accommodation in Ubud. The rooms are spacious and with traditional interiors and the bathroom is just to die for! I stayed here for 2 weeks and I highly recommend it!

-> Check out this blog post to find out the best hotels in Ubud split by areas (with a map)

#5 There Is An Artistic Energy Everywhere

Ubud is full of local artists—from woodcarvers and painters to silversmiths and batik makers. Many studios offer workshops where you can learn the craft yourself.

This artistic heritage is part of daily life, and you’ll see it in everything from the intricate temple decorations to handmade souvenirs. These experiences are so much fun and you get to meet other travellers too!

👉 Try a batik-making class with Viator! I always recommend it when friends and family come to visit!

#6 It’s Ideal for Digital Nomads

A sunlit coworking space with wooden desks and black chairs, surrounded by open windows overlooking palm trees and lush greenery. A ceiling fan and minimal decor give the room an airy, relaxed vibe. — **Outpost** **(Co-working and Co-living)**

While not as fast-paced as Canggu, Ubud has a strong digital nomad community. Several coworking spaces and eco-conscious cafes provide good Wi-Fi and a calm setting to get work done.

There are also events focused on sustainability, conscious living, and community building. Outpost is one of the most active coworking spaces in Ubud when it comes to organising events and communication (their WhatsApp group is full of meetups and good questions!).

Stay connected and productive with an 👉 Ubigi eSIM. It activates quickly, works everywhere I have been in Bali and worldwide, and has given me better coverage than other eSIMs I tried. You can also get 10% off with the code OBSERVER10.

#7 You Can Find Delicious Earthy Food

A vibrant bowl of clear vegetable soup garnished with parsley, served with a scoop of red rice and a side of spicy chili sauce on a banana-leaf-lined wooden platter. — **Traditional Soto Ayam in Ubud**

Having lived in different places in Bali, I found Ubud to be the best place for food that feels both nourishing and connected to the local environment.

While Canggu excels at trendy, Western-style restaurants, Ubud’s eateries often use locally sourced ingredients and maintain a more traditional or natural aesthetic. It feels less like a showroom and more like nourishing place for your belly and soul.

👉 Book Local and Organic Cooking Class here! You will be able to make the best Nasi Goreng and impress your family back home!

#8 Best Affordable Massages!

A peaceful massage room featuring a stone wall with recessed candle-lit niches, two treatment tables with rolled towels, and warm wood flooring. The ambiance is calm and luxurious, ideal for relaxation.

I’ve tried massages in other locations in Bali and while they were all amazing, I have to say the overall experience and price weren’t always well balanced.

Maybe I would get a dreamy massage in Sanur but the place wasn’t the best and I couldn’t shower after – in Ubud I could have spent the same but the treatment room would have been more spacious and with a lovely shower.

My go-to SPA in Ubud is Coconut SPA unless I really want to go for a full Balinese treat – in this case I would go to Svaha Spa (check out my honest review here!).

👉 Treat yourself to a special Balinese massage at Svaha Spa with Klook. They offer the traditional Balinese flower bath in a stunning location! I loved it!

#9 You Can Be Alone Without Feeling Lonely

This is probably one of the strongest reasons why I moved to Ubud. Even if you are living alone, you never feel lonely.

Strangers on the street will always smile at you – like they ACTUALLY MEAN IT! The lady at the laundry shop could treat you like her daughter, the guesthouse owner will check on you if you are not well.

When I got sick in Ubud, the staff from Kebun Indah took shifts to come visit me at the medical centre.

It’s also incredibly easy to meet people here and build your community. I’ve never felt a stronger sense of belonging like I feel here in Ubud!

#10 It’s One of the Safest Places in Bali for Solo Travellers

A barefoot woman wearing a gold and brown kebaya-style outfit with a sash stands smiling in the doorway of a Balinese-style building. She’s holding a small flower offering, with warm sunlight casting soft shadows across the tiled floor.

Bali is pretty safe for female solo travellers, but out of all the main towns, Ubud is definitely the safest!

You can really walk outside at any time of day and night, none will bother you! This is a complete change from my life in London.

Petty crimes are not really a thing in Ubud and never got anything stolen (I also don’t have anything to steal really as I only wear bracelets and necklaces made out of shells and strings!).

How To Get To And Around Ubud

Now that you’ve learnt why you should visit Ubud, let’s talk about how to get there!

The best way to get to Ubud from the airport is via a private driver. You can also take a taxi or Grab. However, for me it’s a bit like coming out of school when I wanted to find my parents outside to pick me up!

👉 I always get mine via Klook.com. The driver would keep an eye on my flight status and wait for me outside!

If you are coming from other destinations in Bali, you can do so by arranging transport with your accommodation or booking your driver.

I prefer having my driver, it’s not expensive and I also agree on doing a few cheeky stops on the way – to visit a temple or take some pictures!

👉 Book yours here, it’s flexible and reliable!

To move around Ubud, you can totally rent a scooter, walk around or call Grab.

If you want to be more independent, 👉 I would recommend renting a scooter via BikAgo. They can even deliver the bike to you and pick it up by the end of your trip!

FAQs On Visiting Ubud

How many days should I spend in Ubud?

The ideal duration for a visit to Ubud depends on your interests. While three to five days offer a comprehensive exploration, a longer stay allows for a deeper connection with the local culture for sure! Check out this 4-day itinerary for Ubud to get some inspiration!

Is Ubud touristy?

Yes, Ubud has become a popular tourist destination, but its still 100% worth visiting!

Is Ubud worth visiting during the rainy season?

While the rainy season (typically from November to March) brings occasional downpours, Ubud should still be part of your itinerary – there is still plenty to do and it’s enjoyable during these times too.

There might be more mosquitoes around that time so make sure you get a repellent from one of the local supermarkets in Ubud.

Ubud vs. Canggu. Where should I go?

Canggu is more geared towards a younger crowd that wants to socialise, attend parties, and network with other foreigners. While it’s lively and full of events, it lacks the same level of cultural connection.

Ubud, on the other hand, is ideal if you’re drawn to nature, spirituality, and a slower pace. It still offers great facilities for digital nomads and solo travellers but with a stronger emphasis on community and tradition. You decide!

What is Ubud famous for?

Ubud is known for its spiritual vibe, artistic community, rice fields, temples, and wellness retreats.

Is Ubud safe for tourists?

Yes, Ubud is generally very safe. Petty theft is rare, and locals are usually friendly and helpful.

Is Ubud safe at night?

Yes a 100%! It’s safe to walk around central Ubud at night, though lighting in smaller streets can be limited. Stick to main roads or take a scooter/taxi after dark.

Is Ubud walkable?

The centre is walkable, though sidewalks can be uneven. For longer distances, scooters or local taxis are more practical. Don’t walk and text or you might end up in a hole!

Is Ubud Palace worth visiting?

Yes, especially in the evening for traditional dance performances. The setting is intimate and rich in history.

Is Ubud Market worth visiting?

It’s worth visiting for souvenirs and local crafts, but be prepared to haggle. Go early to avoid the crowds.

Is Ubud expensive?

Not particularly. You can find budget meals, mid-range stays, and luxury villas—it suits a range of budgets.

What are your thoughts on visiting the Ubud Monkey Forest in Bali? Are there other must-see experiences that you would recommend instead?

The Monkey Forest is worth a visit if it’s your first time, but be mindful of your belongings. For other recommendations, check out my full post on things to do in Ubud.

What is so special about Ubud?

It’s one of the few places where you can truly immerse yourself in Balinese culture, connect with nature, and take part in wellness practices all in one spot.

What are the pros and cons of living in Ubud vs. Sanur in Bali?

Ubud is better if you love nature, community events, and creative or spiritual activities. Sanur is calmer, has beach access, and is popular among retirees and families. However, some digital nomads are now moving to Sanur and there are some coworking spaces and padel camps! I lived in Sanur for 5 months and I loved it, but missed my community in Ubud and nourishing food!

So, Is Ubud Worth Visiting?

Absolutely—if you’re interested in culture, creativity, nature, and personal growth. Whether you’re coming for a short visit or planning to stay a while, Ubud offers a grounded, inspiring experience that’s hard to find elsewhere in Bali.

If you’re planning your itinerary, don’t miss my full list of things to do in Ubud to make the most of your time here.

Ciao for now,

Silvia x