Although Bali is a relatively small island, it has so much to offer. You will probably need to plan at least 2 weeks in Bali to discover the best of this Indonesian vacation hotspot. We’ve split up our Bali 2 week itinerary into four destinations – South Bali, East Bali, Central Bali & North Bali.
We think this is the perfect Bali itinerary to see all the best highlights this beautiful island has to offer in just 2 weeks!
Whether you’re planning a romantic couples vacation to Bali, or visiting with friends or family, there is so much to see on this tiny island. Most people opt to stay in just one or two places during their two weeks in Bali, however, this involves taking lots of day trips in order to visit all the must see places and hidden gems in Bali.
I don’t recommend this!
The roads in Bali are narrow and very busy. It also takes a long to get between different locations because the roads are poorly maintained and traffic is irritatingly slow. This is why we recommend picking a couple of destinations to visit during your 2 weeks and spend a few days exploring around each destination, rather than doing lots of LONG day trips.
THIS 2 WEEK BALI ITINERARY IS PERFECT FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS, COUPLES, OR A BALI HONEYMOON TRIP!
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How to Spend 2 Weeks in Bali Summary
Our Bali 2 week itinerary has been divided into 4 locations, allowing at least 3-4 days in each location:
- Days 1-3: South Bali – Uluwatu & Bukit Peninsula
- Days 4-7: Central Bali – Seminyak or Canggu
- Days 8-11: Ubud & North Bali
- Days 12-14: East Bali – Sanur & Candidasa
2 weeks in bali is the perfect amount of time to give you a taste of the best highlights on the islands!
Bali 2 Week Itinerary
Days 1-3: Uluwatu & Bukit Peninsula
The cliffs around Uluwatu and the Bukit Peninsula offers some of the most spectacular views in all of Bali. And the beaches in Uluwatu are second to none! I recommend you start your two weeks in Bali with at least three days exploring and relaxing in this beautiful part of the island.
Explore Around Uluwatu
Hire a scooter and spend at least a day exploring around Uluwatu and the Bukit Peninsula. The roads in this part of Bali is much less crowded than Seminyak and Kuta.
Pro Tip: I do recommend you take care while riding a scooter, as it can be quite dangerous. You wouldn’t want to spend the rest of your 2 weeks in a Bali hospital! Read this article to learn more about the risks of riding a scooter and how to ensure you are protected with your insurance (spoiler alert: most insurance agencies will not cover you if you don’t have an International Motorbike Licence).
Alternatively, if you have a larger group or prefer the comfort of an airconditioned vehicle, click here to book a private car with driver and create your own itinerary with these suggestions (the driver will take you anywhere you want to go).
Things to do in Uluwatu
Visit Uluwatu Temple – a spectacular temple perched high on top of a cliff. Beware of the naughty monkeys, they can get a little aggressive.
Swim at Padang Padang Beach – A beautiful little cove that you have to walk through a cave to reach. Padang Padang is no longer a secret spot though, expect crowds.
Have a Massage with a View – The Spa at Karma Kandara is located on the top of a cliff and has massage rooms with a simply spectacular view over the Andaman Sea.
Take a Surfing Lesson – Uluwatu has been a popular spot amongst surfers for a long time. You just cannot spend two weeks in Bali without attempting to tackle the break that made this spot famous.
Enjoy Sunset at Rock Bar – It probably needs no introduction, Rock Bar is a spectacular cocktail bar built on top of a rock at Ayana Resort, with stunning sunset views. It gets hectic. The bar opens at 4 pm, but the line up begins around 3 pm. However, if you book your accommodation at Ayana, you’ll get priority entry!
Sunset Temple & Fire Dance Tour – Another fun option, click here to book a sunset temple tour with traditional Kecak Fire Dance and experience a unique insight into Balinese culture.
Feeling inspired? Check out these 30 Bucket List Places to Visit in Bali!
Where to Stay in Uluwatu
Uluwatu and the Bukit Peninsula is known for its up-scale, ultra-luxury, hotels and villas. You could easily spend 3-4 days at most of these resorts and never have to leave (although I highly recommend you do some exploring for at least one day). Most of them have everything you need right there and offer absolutely jaw-dropping views.
Alila Villas Uluwatu – Popular amongst the honeymoon and destination wedding crowd, Alila Uluwatu is superb. Opt for a private pool villa for a real honeymoon experience.
The Edge Bali – Stunning private villas and a spectacular infinity pool that hangs over the clifftop.
Ayana Resort and Spa – This place is massive. It has 9 restaurants, 4 pools, beautiful grounds and Balinese style luxury rooms. Not to mention, their famous Rock Bar!
Six Senses Uluwatu – The pinnacle of high-end luxury in Bali. It doesn’t come cheap, but it will take you to another (more horizontal) dimension.
Where to Eat & Drink in Uluwatu
OM Burger – serves delicious, organic burgers packed with superfoods and healthy smoothie bowls.
La Baracca – find authentic Italian comfort food at this rustic spot near Padang Padang beach.
Coco & Poke – housed inside the famed Single Fin Bar, Coco & Poke serves Hawaiian style Poke bowls and salads.
Sake no Hana – this cliffside modern Japanese restaurant located at OMNIA Dayclub’s is well worth a dinner booking.
Di Mare – with to-die-for views from their breezy clifftop location at Karma Kandara Resort, di Mare serves up authentic Mediterranean style food. Think seafood and pasta heaven!
Looking to go off the beaten path in Bali? Discover these hidden gems and secret spots in Bali!
The Best Photo Spots in Uluwatu
Karang Boma Cliff – A stunning clifftop sunset spot. A narrow trail leads to the cliff edge. Be careful, as there is no safety barrier and the track ends suddenly at the cliff edge. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Karang Boma Cliff.
Uluwatu Temple – Perched out on the edge of a massive cliff, this temple is particularly spectacular at sunset.
Padang Padang Beach – The turquoise blue seas and rock karsts rising out of the water are just spectacular. You’ll have to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
The Best Beach Clubs in Uluwatu
Sundays Beach Club – One of the most popular beach clubs in Bali. Sunday’s is located at the incredible Ungasan Clifftop Resort. You cannot miss this beach club on your Bali itinerary!
Single Fin Bar – Not exactly a beach club, because it’s set high on top of the cliffs and not on the beach. This place is popular with the Aussie crowd and does the laid-back beach club vibe very well. Their Sunday Sessions are infamous, always with an excellent line-up of DJs!
OMNIA Dayclub – with a jaw-dropping elevated bar that juts out over the clifftop and million-dollar views, OMNIA is the new place to be seen in Uluwatu, with superstar DJs and excellent cocktails.
Karma Beach Club – catch the Funicular down a steep cliff to find a secret beach cove playground nestled at the bottom. Get there by mid-morning to secure a spot, you can’t make bookings!
Looking for a great beach club is Bali? Here’s why we loved Karma Beach Club in Uluwatu
Days 4-7: Seminyak or Canggu
Seminyak and Canggu are two of the most popular destinations on most people’s Bali itinerary. It’s entirely possible to spend your entire 2 weeks in Bali here, and never leave. However, with so many other great places to visit on your Bali itinerary, we’ve squeezed the absolute best things to see, do, and places to eat around Seminyak and Canggu into 3 days!
First Time in Bali? Here are some typical tourist traps to avoid!
Things to Do Around Seminyak & Canggu
Shopping – Don’t pack too much for your 2 weeks in Bali – instead buy some new threads at the great boutiques around Seminyak and Canggu. In Seminyak, the best shopping strips are; Jalan Kayu Aya and Jalan Raya Seminyak. There are also some great little shops popping up along Jalan Petitenget and Jalan Kayu Jati. In Canggu, check out Jalan Pantai Batu Bolong.
Here is a list of our favourite shopping hotspots in Seminyak and Canggu:
- The Bali Boat Shed – men’s and women’s beachwear
- Kim Soo – Balinese-style homewares
- Uma and Leopold – good quality women’s beachwear
- The Bali Tailor – custom designs and leather goods
- Lily Jean – boho-style womenswear
Beach Clubbing – No Bali itinerary is complete without a visit to one of the famous Bali Beach Clubs! Many great venues have popped up around Seminyak and Canggu over the years, offering some world-class DJs, pool and beach parties, great food, and the perfect sunset view.
Some of my favourite clubs to check out are;
- KU DE TA – an oldie but a goodie
- Potato Head – the place to be seen
- Tropicola – for retro pool party vibes
- La Laguna – for a whimsical gypsy garden party scene
- The Lawn – for laid-back cocktails on the ‘lawn.’
Tanah Lot Temple – One of Bali’s most important landmarks, Tanah Lot Temple is a beautiful temple perched on a rock, surrounded by crashing waves. A great spot to visit at sunset. Click here to book a private Tanah Lot Sunset Tour.
Day Spa – check out Body Works in Seminyak or GOLDUST Beauty Lounge in Canggu (ask for the gold facial).
Related Post: 10 Incredible Places To Spend Your Holidays in July
Places to Eat & Drink in Seminyak
I could write an entire guide on places to eat in Seminyak, as there are so many great restaurants and cafes! But maybe that’s for another time. Here is a handful of my favourites:
Da Maria – seriously good Italian food.
BATIK Restaurant and Bar – sensational modern Asian Fusion-style food with a Western twist.
Revolver Coffee – simply great coffee.
Sea Circus – my absolute favourite café in Bali! Great for breakfast or lunch.
Motel Mexicola – great Mexican food with a beach club, party vibe. The food and atmosphere are great but don’t come here for the conversation (the music is pretty loud).
Sisterfields Café – has been a Seminyak institution for a long time and it’s still so so good.
Mama San – another fabulous modern Asian Fusion restaurant you can’t pass up.
Places to Eat & Drink in Canggu
Canggu’s café scene is a little more modest than Seminyak, which is precisely why I love it. If you’re looking for some good casual food, you can’t go past:
The Shady Shack – shabby chic décor in a garden setting. And they do great food.
Café Organic – a great breakfast spot with the best smoothie bowls.
Peleton Café – you’d hardly be able to tell this place is completely vegan, everything on the menu is out of this world!
Milk & Madu – the best breakfasts I’ve had in Bali. If you’re looking for avocado on toast, make a beeline for Milk & Madu!
Ulekan – owned by the same mob as Milk & Madu, Ulekan serves up delicious Indonesian-style food.
Moana Fish Eatery & Tahitian Kitchen – this relative newcomer is a hit with the local expats.
Related Post: A Guide to the Best Cafes and Restaurants in Canggu, Bali
Where to Stay Around Seminyak or Canggu
Ametis Villas – set in a beautiful tropical garden just off the main drag in Canggu, Ametis Villas are just stunning, you’ll never want to leave! Each villa has its own large private pool.
W Hotel Seminyak – the ultimate beachfront luxury. Experience stunning sunsets, with a cocktail at Woo Bar in the evenings.
Soori Villas – a little further north-west of Canggu town, but if you’re looking for stunning designed villas with private pools and don’t mind being a bit further away from the action, then Soori Bali is the place for you.
Alila Seminyak – Alila Seminyak offers a prime location, within walking distance of Seminyak’s best restaurants, beach clubs and shopping.
Days 8-11: Ubud & North Bali
Ubud is an artisan town, set in the mountains of central Bali. The temperature is slightly milder than the coastal areas, with humid days and cool evening breezes. It’s not uncommon to see monkeys swinging from the trees around Ubud and North Bali. Ubud is also a well-known expat yogi-town. Many expats come for 2 weeks in Bali and never leave! We recommend spending at least three days of your Bali itinerary exploring Ubud, including a day trip to North Bali.
Things to Do Around Ubud
Ubud Monkey Forest – A fun activity to do in Ubud is to get up close to the monkeys. If you’re carrying any food, don’t expect to leave with it, as the monkeys are ruthless. They have been known to bite and scratch humans if provoked, so it’s a good idea to have your rabies vaccinations up-to-date, just in case. There are many local caretakers around who shoo the monkeys away if they take an interest in you.
Ubud Artisan Markets – The Ubud Markets are one of the largest artisan markets in Bali. Haggling has become much more difficult due to the markets becoming so popular but expect to pay no more than 50-70% of the original price.
Campuhan Ridge Walk – One of the most popular things to do in Ubud is taking a walk along the beautiful Campuhan Ridge sandwiched in between two rivers. Great for sunset strolls.
Tirta Empul – A beautiful Balinese water temple where you can experience the traditional Hindu water cleansing ritual.
Yoga Barn – A great place to take a yoga class. The Yoga Shala is large with classes suitable for all levels from absolute beginner to seasoned yogis. Grab a bite to eat at the Garden Kafe after your class.
Tegalalang Rice Terraces – Some of the most picturesque rice terraces in the world and a major tourist draw-card. One just cannot spend two weeks in Bali without a visit to these iconic rice terraces. Very popular amongst day-trippers from Seminyak. Arrive early to avoid the crowds and the hot midday sun.
Looking for more fun activities near Ubud? Read all about our top 10 things to do in Ubud!
Places to Eat & Drink in Ubud
After spending much time in Ubud over the years, we actually wrote a whole foodies guide to Ubud, featuring 40 restaurants, cafes, and bars. That’s enough places to easily keep you well-fed for your entire two weeks in Bali! But seeing as you only have 3 days in Ubud, here are our top five:
Seniman Coffee – A great little coffee haunt, spanning three buildings and a coffee roastery across the road. Seniman also serves food.
The Garden Kafe at Yoga Barn – Some of the best and freshest organic food you’ll find in Bali.
Monkey Cave Espresso – A great little hole-in-the-wall coffee spot located near the Monkey Forest.
DUMBO – The absolute best Italian food in town. Entirely vegetarian menu, with an abundance of fresh produce.
Watercress Café – An excellent spot for a burger, smoothie bowl or buddah bowls. Good atmosphere.
Hungry in Ubud? Here’s a list of the best places to eat in Ubud
North Bali Day Trip from Ubud
Hire an Air-Conditioned Vehicle and a driver for the only full day trip I recommend you do during your 2 weeks in Bali. It should cost around 500,000 IDR for the day. There is no need for you to hire a tour guide, as you’ll be charged extra. Instead, use our recommendations below and create your own North Bali day trip itinerary.
Nung Nung Waterfall – Start the day early and head to NungNung Waterfall before the crowds descend. This waterfall is absolutely spectacular, particularly after a lot of rain. It’s not far from Ubud, which means it can draw a decent crowd.
Ulun Danu Temple – A spectacular temple sitting right on a lake.
Handara Golf Resort – The entrance to the Handara Golf Resort has become somewhat Insta-famous. So much so that I’ve heard you now have to pay to get a photo taken here, and each person is given a set period.
Hidden Hills Wanagiri – Swings, birds’ nests, and other Insta-worthy bamboo structures overlooking a lake and valley formed by an old volcanic crater. This spot offers some spectacular views.
Munduk Moding Plantation – a coffee plantation and eco-luxury resort with one of the most stunning infinity pools and views over the hills of Bali.
Gitgit Waterfall – This waterfall is not quite as spectacular as the others, but when we visited, we had the entire place to ourselves! It’s a 20-minute walk to reach the waterfall, so where good shoes.
Related Post: A 1 Day North Bali Itinerary from Ubud
Where to Stay in Ubud
COMO Uma Ubud – A rustic luxury resort set in Balinese-style villas and a beautiful moss garden on a hill in the jungle, overlooking the Tjampuhan Valley (pictured below).
Maya Ubud Resort & Spa – 5-Star hotel heaven on a mountain, with an infinity pool and spa that overlooks a hidden river valley.
Bisma Eight – An eco-luxe boutique hotel, just a short walk from the centre of town, with spectacular views and an infinity pool overlooking the jungle.
COMO Shambahlah Estate – The ultimate in 5-Star luxury, a Wellness focused retreat, set in the tranquillity of the rainforest.
Luxe hotel with jungle views? Here’s why we loved COMO Uma Ubud Resort
Days 12-14: Sanur & Candidasa (East Bali)
Sanur and Candidasa are two beautiful places in East Bali and are somewhat quieter than the other regions on this two week Bali itinerary. Thankfully they’ve not yet been discovered by many tourists. This also means there are not as many cafes and restaurants available, however, there are still a few good options. I recommend visiting this spot towards the end of your 2 weeks in Bali, so you can relax and get away from all the busyness.
Things to Do Around Sanur or Candidasa
Lempuyang Temple – One of Bali’s oldest temples with a stunning view of Mount Agung.
Tirta Gangga – A beautiful Hindu water temple with a large goldfish pond and carefully placed stepping stones.
Diving – The East coast of Bali offers some of the islands most spectacular diving spots.
Mount Agung – After the 2017 eruption of Mount Agung, it is no longer possible to hike up the mountain, as it remains very active. But there are several places around Candidasa than offer spectacular views of this giant volcano.
Tukad Cepung Waterfall – Located back towards Ubud, the stunning Tukad Cepung Waterfall is not quite as famous as some of the other waterfalls around central Bali, because it’s slight further afield to reach. But it’s well worth the effort to get there.
Where to Stay Around Sanur or Candidasa
Alila Manggis – I absolutely love the Alila hotels brand. This secluded seaside resort is stylish with an open-plan design with palm-fringed grounds.
Hideout Bali – An Insta-famous bamboo hut nestled in the jungle.
Amankila – A luxurious resort set high over a private beach with a stunning three-tiered infinity pool. You’ll never want to leave.
More Places to Visit in Bali
Do you have more time? Extend your two weeks in Bali and check out these other popular things to do in and around Bali:
- Read about some additional Top Things to do in Bali
- Check out the nearby islands of Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida
- Hike up Mount Batur
- Discover the island of Lombok
- Relax and get away from it all on Gili Air
Things to Know for Planning Two Weeks in Bali
Currency – The Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the primary form of currency accepted in Bali, however many hotels charge in USD. Most places in Bali take cash only (except the larger hotels and restaurants), and there are many cash exchanges available all over the island. Beware of unlicensed money changers. At the time of writing, 1 USD was worth approximately 14,000 IDR, and 1 AUD was worth 10,000 IDR.
Tipping – Tipping is not customary in Bali, however, given the Balinese people earn very little income, tipping is very much welcomed. There is no average amount, but I usually add 10-15% to the bill and give my drivers an extra 20,000 IDR.
Visas – A 30-day tourist visa is issued on arrival for citizens of more than 140 countries. Apply for an Indonesia Visa (or check if you need one) using iVisa.com.
Getting Around – there are no trains or public buses in Bali. The best way to get around is by taxi or to hire a car plus driver (approximately 500,000 IDR per day). It’s also possible to hire a scooter/motorbike for around 80,000 IDR per day, but the roads are much more dangerous than in Western countries, so please be mindful of the risks involved. I always get my hotel to arrange a transfer from the airport when I first arrive (around 25 USD) – transport options at the airport can be somewhat overwhelming with many drivers trying to haggle for your business. Some rental villas also come with a car and driver.
Best Time to Visit – June to September are the best months to spend 2 weeks Bali as this is the dry season and the climate is more temperate. April-May and October-November is shoulder season, and the weather is still lovely, although slightly higher humidity with frequent afternoon storms. Avoid December to February as Christmas time draws the Australian crowds during their summer holidays and the monsoon season brings massive downpours.
Don’t forget to Bring – Sunscreen and Wine! Both can be very expensive to buy on the island. Bring cash for money changers.
Language – The native language in Bali is Indonesian, but because tourism is their largest industry, most people speak enough English to get by.
Bali Itinerary 2 Weeks: Wrap Up
If you’ve made it this far, I’m guessing you’ve got a good idea of how you would like to spend your 2 weeks in Bali. I would have loved to spend more time, as there is so much to do in Bali that one could easily plan an itinerary covering more than just two weeks.
To make the most of your trip, be sure to check out our other Bali articles. After visiting many times, we have a ton of great Bali resources:
If you would like to add anything to your Bali itinerary, why not sign up to access our Resource Library which includes a handy Best of Bali Map, with the exact location of over 250+ places to see, eat and things to do in Bali. You can access the map on-the-go directly from the Google Maps app on your phone!
Click here to Access the Best of Bali Map!
We hope this two week Bali itinerary has inspired you to plan your next trip to the Island of the Gods. If you have any questions or recommendations of other great places to visit in Bali, please leave them in the comments below.
Planning a trip soon? Here’s a list of the websites we use for booking our trips:
- Skyscanner for the best flight deals
- Booking.com for the best rates on hotels
- HomeAway for the best price on apartment and home rentals
- Rentalcars.com for quick and easy car rentals
- Luxury Escapes | Expedia for luxury package holiday deals and tours
- Get Your Guide | Klook | Viator for booking day tours and attraction tickets
- Tourradar for a wide selection of multi-day tours
- Safety Wing for the most comprehensive worldwide travel insurance
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About the Author:
Amanda Twine is the founder and creator of Bucket List Seekers – a luxury travel blog sharing informative travel guides, food guides, hotel reviews, itineraries, and tips about how to make luxury travel more affordable.
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Jess says
I love how you break this itinerary down and I completely agree with how you structured it! I love how you gave local tips for each location. I spent a month in Bali last year and didn’t make it to a few of the places that you listed but, I wish I had! I plan to go back to Bali so I’ll save this list for when I do. They’ve got so many adorable little shops and restaurants, don’t they!? 🙂
Amanda Twine says
Thank you Jess! I live in Australia and visit Bali quite regularly. Let me know if you have any questions when you plan your trip back there. I’ve also got a great Places to Eat in Ubud post!
STAY CLOSE TRAVEL FAR says
Great tips!