Planning a trip to Bali, the tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture? Look no further! Bali remains one of my favourite travel destinations because of its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant culture and of course, great food, and the great thing is that because it’s a relatively small island, you can pack a lot into any length of visit here.
Whether lush rice terraces, ancient temples or long, sandy beaches are your vibe, you’ll find it all on Bali. There are also several other surrounding islands worth squeezing into your trip whilst you’re there, including Lombok, the Gili Trewangan and Gili Air, as well as Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida and Nusa Ceningan – all of which have their own unique character and cater to different types of traveller (more on those later).
If it all sounds a little bit overwhelming and you don’t know how or where to start planning, then good news; you’re in the right place. In this comprehensive Bali travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most of your Bali adventure in 2024, from getting there to the best places to visit, top activities, and a recommended two-week itinerary. Plus, we’ll answer the burning question: Do I need a visa for Bali?
Getting to Bali
If you’re coming from the UK then travelling to Bali is easier than ever. There are numerous airlines now offering direct and connecting flights to Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali’s capital city, Denpasar. Popular airlines flying from the UK to Bali include Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines, with connecting flights typically stopping in major hubs such as Dubai, Doha, or Singapore.
If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option then you might want to consider flying with a lower-cost airline like AirAsia or Thai Airways via their respective hubs.
Best places to visit in Bali
Ubud: Known as the cultural heartland of Bali, Ubud is known for its lush rice terraces, ancient temples, and thriving arts scene. If you’re looking for Instagram-worthy locations and photo opportunities then this is the perfect place to start with – don’t miss the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Ubud Palace, and the vibrant Ubud Art Market while you’re here.
Seminyak: One of Bali’s most popular resort towns, Seminyak offers an array of upscale cafés and restaurants, trendy beach clubs, and chic boutiques – and the sunsets here are truly next level. Home to world famous beach club Potato Head and iconic Ku De Ta, if you’re looking for a lively yet sophisticated getaway then this is the place to be. The streets are lined with fashionable shops and galleries and you’ll find plenty of hotels to choose from here to suit all types of traveller – from budget to all-out luxury.
Kuta: Known for its great surf scene, Kuta’s large waves attract watersports enthusiasts from across the globe, and its vibrant nightlife also makes it a favourite with partygoers. We gave it a miss when we were in Bali because it wasn’t really for us, but if it sounds like it is for you then be sure to visit Kuta Beach, catch a wave at a renowned surf spot like Legian Beach, and dance the night away at Kuta’s many beachfront bars and clubs.
Uluwatu: Set atop Bali’s southern cliffs, Uluwatu is known for its breathtaking ocean views, world-class surfing, and cultural attractions such as the Uluwatu Temple. Here, you can catch a traditional Kecak dance performance at sunset or surf legendary breaks like Padang Padang and Bingin Beach.
Nusa Islands: Just a short boat ride from Bali’s mainland, the Nusa Islands remain relatively underdeveloped and offer untouched pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning natural landscapes. If you’re looking for a laid-back destination with rustic appeal then be sure to factor them into your Bali itinerary. You can explore Nusa Penida’s rugged coastline, snorkel with manta rays at Nusa Lembongan, or relax on the white sandy shores of Nusa Ceningan.
What to do in Bali
Surfing: Bali is renowned for its world-class surf breaks catering to surfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer seeking adrenaline-pumping breaks, Bali offers waves for everyone. Head to spots like Uluwatu, Canggu, or Padang Padang for epic surf sessions.
Trekking and Nature Exploration: Explore Bali’s lush landscapes and natural wonders by embarking on scenic treks and nature walks. Hike through the terraced rice fields of Tegalalang in Ubud, trek to the summit of Mount Batur for a breathtaking sunrise experience, or visit Bali’s iconic waterfalls such as Tegenungan and Gitgit.
Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in Bali’s rich culture and traditions by visiting ancient temples, attending traditional ceremonies, and participating in cultural activities. Don’t miss the chance to witness a traditional Balinese dance performance, visit historic temples like Tanah Lot or Besakih, and learn about Balinese art and craftsmanship at local galleries and workshops.
Island Hopping: Explore Bali’s surrounding islands on a day trip or overnight excursion. Discover the pristine beaches and hidden gems of the Nusa Islands, snorkel with colorful marine life around Menjangan Island, or embark on a diving adventure to explore Bali’s vibrant underwater world.
Wellness and Relaxation: Bali is renowned for its wellness and relaxation offerings, including yoga retreats, spa treatments, and holistic healing therapies. Unwind with a traditional Balinese massage, practice yoga overlooking scenic landscapes, or detoxify with a wellness retreat in the lush countryside.
The best two-week Bali itinerary
Days 1-4: Explore Ubud and its surrounding attractions. Ubud is home to some truly spectacular hotels and hostels immersed in nature, so check into one if your budget allows – it’s an experience in itself. Whilst you’re here, be sure to check out the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Tegalalang Rice Terraces, and Ubud Art Market – as well as the Pura Tirta Empul temple and Ubud Water Palace. The Campuhan Ridge Walk is also a must for your Ubud, Bali itinerary and offers breath-taking views along the way.
Days 5-7: Head to the coastal town of Seminyak for beach relaxation, upscale dining, and vibrant nightlife. Make sure to visit Potato Head for cocktails and don’t miss the spectacular sunsets in Seminyak – there are numerous beachfront bars offering prime viewing spots. And save time to indulge in spa treatments at one of the many local spas, and shop for souvenirs at Seminyak’s boutiques.
Days 8-10: Discover the surf culture of Kuta, catching waves at renowned surf spots like Legian Beach and exploring Kuta’s lively nightlife scene – or, for a more laid-back experience with culture sights to see, hunker down in Uluwatu for a couple of nights and enjoy your days relaxing at the beach and exploring Uluwatu Temple.
Days 11-14: For the final leg of your Bali adventure, take a ferry from Sanur to Nusa Lembongan and spend your last few days island-hopping around Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida and Nusa Ceningan. Here, you can enjoy snorkeling, relax on pristine beaches and take advantage of some truly epic photo spots. Snorkelling with manta rays is an absolute must if you’re visiting at the right time of year. I got epically sea sick on this excursion though as the sea around the Nusa islands can be incredibly rough, so be sure to pack some travel sickness tablets!
Do I need a visa for Bali?
Most travellers visiting Bali for tourism purposes do not require a visa for stays of up to 30 days. Nationals from eligible countries, including the UK, can enter Bali visa-free upon arrival at Ngurah Rai International Airport, which means there’s no need to apply for one before you fly. Even so, it’s essential to check the latest visa requirements and entry regulations before travelling, as visa policies can change at any time and may vary based on your nationality and unique set of travel circumstances.
The bottom line
With its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation, there’s really nowhere quite like Bali, and it’s a bucket list destination thatb every travel enthusiast should visit at least once.
Hopefully, this ultimate Bali travel guide for 2024 has given you all of the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to this tropical paradise. So pack your bags, book your flights, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Bali!