Ubud is one of Bali's most popular destinations for culture, nature and local experiences. From visiting traditional Balinese temples and exploring rice terraces to discovering art galleries, local markets and cafes, there are plenty of things to do in Ubud for first-time visitors.
This guide covers the best things to do in Ubud, including attractions in the town centre and places worth visiting beyond it. If you're looking for somewhere to stay, Parvati Retreat Villas is located on Jl. Sandat, approximately a 10–15 minute walk from Ubud town centre.
Best Things to Do in Ubud
Here are some of the highlights to include in your first visit:
Ubud Palace Traditional Balinese architecture and royal history
Ubud Art Market Local crafts, textiles and souvenirs
Saraswati Temple Lotus pond and Balinese temple architecture
Sacred Monkey Forest Forest paths, temples and monkeys
Campuhan Ridge Walk Scenic walking trail through green hills
Tegallalang Rice Terraces Famous terraced rice fields
Museum Puri Lukisan Balinese art and cultural history
1. Explore Ubud's Town Centre
A good place to begin is the heart of Ubud. Take a walk along its main streets, browse independent shops and discover small galleries, cafes and local restaurants.
Visit Ubud Palace, a historic royal compound in the centre of town, then cross the street to explore Ubud Art Market, where you'll find handmade souvenirs, textiles, baskets and local crafts.
A short walk away is Saraswati Temple, recognised for its beautiful lotus pond and traditional Balinese architecture. These three places are easy to combine in one outing.
2. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest
One of Ubud's best-known attractions, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a forest complex with ancient temples, stone sculptures and winding paths beneath a canopy of trees.
It's home to long-tailed macaques, which roam freely throughout the sanctuary. Keep your belongings secure, avoid carrying food and give the monkeys plenty of space.
It's a memorable way to experience the natural and cultural side of Ubud in one visit.
3. Walk Through Ubud's Green Landscapes
Beyond the busy streets, Ubud is surrounded by green valleys, rice fields and walking paths.
Campuhan Ridge Walk is one of the area's most popular walks, with an open trail overlooking the surrounding hills. It's best enjoyed early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the weather is cooler.
For something closer to town, explore the smaller paths around Kajeng Rice Fields. They offer a glimpse of Ubud's quieter side, with rice paddies, village houses and small local cafes along the way.
4. Discover Balinese Art and Culture
Ubud has long been known as a centre for Balinese art and creativity. Spend an afternoon visiting an art gallery or museum to learn more about the island's painting, sculpture and artistic traditions.
Museum Puri Lukisan and Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) are good places to start. You can also explore local craft shops and workshops, where traditional skills such as woodcarving, painting and jewellery making are still practised.
In the evening, consider watching a traditional Balinese dance performance. Performances are regularly held at venues around central Ubud, including Ubud Palace. Check the local programme during your visit.
5. Take a Trip to the Rice Terraces
If you have time to venture outside the town centre, visit Tegallalang Rice Terraces, north of Ubud. Its layered rice fields are among Bali's most recognisable landscapes.
You can walk along the terraces, stop at one of the nearby cafes or simply enjoy the views. Go earlier in the day for cooler temperatures and a quieter experience.
Tegallalang is best visited with a driver or scooter, as it is outside central Ubud.
6. Enjoy Ubud's Food and Wellness Scene
Ubud is also a wonderful place to slow down. Spend a morning at a cafe, try traditional Balinese dishes at a local warung or settle in for a longer lunch overlooking the greenery.
There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy yoga, meditation, spa treatments and traditional Balinese massages. Check out Radiantly Alive or Yoga Barn for yoga activities. Whether you're looking for a full wellness experience or simply a relaxing afternoon, you'll find plenty of choices around town.
Where to Stay in Ubud: Parvati Retreat Villas
Looking for a boutique villa in Ubud close to the town centre? Parvati Retreat Villas is a family-owned villa estate located on Jl. Sandat, approximately a 10–15 minute walk from central Ubud.
The property features five traditional Joglo villas, including four double villas and one twin villa. Each villa has air conditioning, an ensuite bathroom and a private outdoor space.
Guests can enjoy the shared infinity pool and Jungle Terrace, with the Parvati team available to help arrange transport and local experiences.
Its location makes it a convenient base for exploring Ubud's restaurants, cafes, markets and cultural attractions, while offering a comfortable place to return to after a day out.
FAQ
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First-time visitors should explore Ubud Palace, Ubud Art Market, Saraswati Temple and the Sacred Monkey Forest. Other highlights include Campuhan Ridge Walk, Tegallalang Rice Terraces, local art galleries and traditional Balinese dance performances.
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Three days is a good starting point for exploring Ubud. It gives you enough time to visit the main attractions, discover local restaurants and cafes, experience Balinese culture and enjoy the surrounding nature. If you prefer a slower pace, consider staying for four or five days.
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Yes, central Ubud is walkable. Ubud Palace, Ubud Art Market, Saraswati Temple and many restaurants and shops are within walking distance of one another. However, attractions further away, such as Tegallalang Rice Terraces, are best reached by car or scooter.
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Ubud is best known for its Balinese culture, traditional temples, rice terraces, art galleries, local cuisine and wellness experiences. It is also a popular destination for yoga, traditional dance and exploring Bali's artistic heritage.