Unfortunately, our stay in Ubud was disrupted by restrictions and closed tourists attractions. Even so, we fell in love with Ubud because it has a completely different atmosphere compared to the rest of Bali and amazing nature. It is also a center for yoga lovers and meditation or for admirers of art and home decor.
Top things to do and must see places in Ubud
1. Tegalalang rice terraces
The most beautiful area of rice terraces in Ubud and also one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bali. You can get there by motorbike from the center of Ubud in 15 minutes and there is no entrance fee. However, it may happen that farmers will want to pay donations (around 10,000 IDR). We have not experienced it, but it is said that in the main season it is best to come before 10 am or later in the afternoon due to the crowd of tourists.
In addition to the rice fields, there is also a large number of swings and various photogenic attractions such as I Love Bali, etc. You will need at least 2 hours to visit the rice fields, because they are really large (we recommend walking up to Rice Titanic)
2. Campuhan Ridge Walk
2 km long path overlooking the surroundings is ideal for walking, running or for photographers. We recommend coming here and watching the sunrise or sunset. Both views are worth it. Admission is free and you will find also some refreshments at the end/beginning of the route.
3. Spa and flower bath
Is it time to relax? We can recommend Balinese spa ending with a flower bath. One of the most famous places in Ubud are Udaya Resort & Spa, Jannata Resort and Spaor Karsa Spa
We chose a slightly more action option and enjoyed a flower bath right in the middle of the jungle in Escape in Bali. We could enjoy the bath undisturbed and listen to the sounds of nature 🙂
4. Sari Organic Walk
Don’t have enough of rice fields yet? So go for about an hour’s walk to the Sari Organic Walk. It is a path between rice terraces, around various cafes, warungs or yoga centers. This is the exact route🙂
5. Ubud Waterfalls
There are several amazing waterfalls that you must visit in Ubud and its surroundings. We didn’t get to half of them because of the covid-19, but we have for you our list:
- Leke Leke Waterfall
- Tibumana Waterfall
- Kanto Lampo Waterfall
- Tukad Cepung Waterfall
- Tegenungan Waterfall
6. Ubud market (art market)
Are you looking for a place to buy some souvenirs, traditional Balinese handbags, clothes or a painting? You should visitthe center of Ubud, where the largest market is located. It is divided into two time periods. Food (fruit, vegetables, meat) is sold here until 8 am and from 9 am is transformed into the sale of things. You can find information about its location here
7. Other interesting places
There are a lot of places that are worth visiting, but unfortunately we did not get to them so we do not have any photos. But check also Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), Pura Tirta Empul temple or Monkey Forest.
The best restaurants and warung in Ubud
1. Warung Gauri
This is our the most favorite Warung in Ubud with amaying food and nice service. We recommend trying chicken satay, Gado Gado (vegetables with tofu and peanut sauce) and springs rolls.
2. Warung Mendez
Our second most favorite Warung where you will find a varied selection of Indonesian, Vietnamese or even Thai cuisine.
3. Italian restaurant L’Osteria Ubud
4. Kakiang bakery
Do you have still space for dessert in your stomach? You should visit Kakiang Bakery, which is located in the heart of Ubud. We recommend pancake cake, cream puff or Tiramisu cake. For a coffee we liked the most Hazelnut latte.
How to get around Ubud
The best and cheapest way to get around is by motorbike. We rented a motorbike in Canggu for one month and paid 600k IDR/month (discount because of covidu-19, Wira services – highly recommended).
Other options are Grab (asian Uber) and Gojek. Just install the app, call your driver and that’s it.
Best hotels in Ubud
Ubud is very specific because there are amazing hotel resorts with several multi-storey pools, overlooking the jungle or rice fields. In addition to hotels and villas, you will also find non-traditional bamboo houses and other architectural gems there!
1. Aksari resort Ubud
A luxury hotel resort located about 30 minutes from Ubud is a real gem. In addition to the 2-storey swimming pool, you will also find amazing hotel rooms, a yoga studio in a bamboo shelter and classic photo spots (swing, little heart, etc.). More information about the hotel and current prices can be found here
2. Bamboo house in the middle of rice fields
An unusual but fun form of accommodation is the bamboo house Firefly Eco lodge. One night was enough for us here, as the rooms are relatively small. We also slept on the top floor and we started to swing with each strong wind. Anyway, it was an unforgettable experience 🙂
Among other interesting and non-traditional bamboo houses belong Camaya Bali, Aura Bali house, Bambu Indah Resort , Escape in Bali or DD bamboo lodge
3. Adiwana Hotels and Resorts
Adiwana is a chain of hotels that offers a wide selection of accommodation with luxurious rooms, swimming pools and massage/spa options. Take a look at their web sites and choose which hotel you like the most 🙂
4. Villa Cella Bella
Amazing villa in the middle of jungle with pool and lot of places for relaxation. More information and current prices can be find here.
5. Other popular hotel resorts
Other popular places to stay are Udaya Resorts and Spa, Jannata Resort, Kamandalu Resort or Calma Ubud