Ultimate Ubud: Exploring the cultural heart of Bali
Where should I stay in Ubud?
There are two main areas you can stay in Ubud, in the city center where you'll be close to all the action and main tourist attractions, or on the outskirts if you are looking for a quieter, more relaxed break.
Here we'll discuss both options, and give our top accommodation recommendations for your budget and travel style.
Ubud City Center
If you want to be close to all the action then this is the place to be. There is so much to see and do in Ubud; if you stay here it is certain you will never be bored and you'll be within walking distance to all the main tourist attractions such as Ubud's art markets and museums, the Saraswati temple, Elephant cave and the world famous Monkey Forest to name but a few. Here are our top hotel recommendations to suit your budget if you want to stay in the center of Ubud:
Luxury Accommodation
Luxury for less
Mid- range accommodation
Budget option
Just outside the center- our top pick!
The Keyon resort offers the best of both worlds, the resort is located 10 minutes drive from the centre of Ubud with incredible views over the historic Petanu river and jungle. They provide a complimentary hourly shuttle service into Ubud so you will always have easy access to the city.
Accommodation on the outskirts
Many of the luxury resorts are located in the Taman area on the outskirts of Ubud around 15- 20 minutes drive from the city. This area is for you if you are looking for somewhere a little quieter, it provides a more remote and relaxed feel with amazing tropical views of the surrounding jungle and waterfalls.
Our top 3 luxury resorts in Taman
How long should I stay in Ubud?
We'd recommend staying in Ubud for around a week (5-7 nights is ideal) this will allow you to truly get to know the area and experience the local culture. Though you could easily spend 2 weeks here if you have more time.
Top- rated things to do in Ubud
Take a private tour of Ubud's top-rated tourist attractions
On this trip which is bookable via the link below, you'll really experience the very best that Ubud has to offer. You'll get picked up from your accommodation and taken around the temples, waterfalls, rice fields and the sacred monkey forest.
Visit Mount Batur and it's natural hot springs
One for the early risers- take a hike up Mount Batur and reach the top just in time for sunrise. Then visit the volcano and relax in its stunning surrounding natural hot springs.
All trips booked via the links above are book now pay later with free cancellation until 24 hours before your trip so you can keep your travel plans flexible.
Full disclosure: we may receive a small commission from the booking provider if you book through one of our links, we really appreciate this and it is at no extra cost to you.
Missing the beach?
The only thing you don't get in Ubud is those beautiful Bali beaches so if you have time on your trip, we'd recommend staying at a beach resort or taking a trip to the Gili islands too to really experience all that Bali has to offer. Read our other Bali guides linked below if you'd like tips on where to go for a blissful beach break.
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