The Best Bali Food Tour: A Delicious Day of Rice Fields, Markets & Street Eats

A lush green rice paddy in Bali stretches into the distance under a bright blue sky, with a large banana leaf in the foreground and traditional Balinese buildings in the background.

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Disclaimer: I was a guest of Urban Adventures on this tour in exchange for an honest review. As always, all opinions are my own — and I truly believe this is one of the best food tours in Bali!

Bali is known for its beaches and temples—but if you ask me, the island’s real magic is in its food. From savory street eats to rich cultural stories shared over bowls of steaming soto ayam, there’s no better way to experience Bali than through its flavors.

A few years ago, I was lucky enough to join what I still believe is the best Bali food tour — a full-day adventure with Urban Adventures that combined hidden rice terraces, local markets, and a multi-stop street food safari.

While that exact combo tour isn’t available anymore, you can still recreate the same incredible experience in 2025 — and honestly? It might be even better now.

In this post, I’ll share my full experience on the tour, what’s changed, and how you can plan your own perfect Bali food tour day — complete with jungle views, market snacks, and the kind of food you’ll dream about long after you’re back home.

Exploring Bali through food? Be sure to check out my ultimate Bali itinerary where I highlight even more amazing spots to eat, explore, and experience Bali.

What Was the Total Bali Food Tour?

When I visited Bali, Urban Adventures offered a unique full-day Bali food tour experience called the Total Bali Food Tour. It was the perfect mix of culture, nature, and — of course — plenty of food, and it quickly became one of my favorite food tours in Bali to recommend.

The tour combined two of Urban Adventures’ most popular Bali experiences:

  • The Hidden Rice Terraces Trek, a slow-paced morning walk through Kerobokan’s peaceful rice paddies and village temples, with a visit to a local market
  • The now-retired ‘Eat Street’ Local Food Tour, a flavorful evening of hopping between warungs in Seminyak to try Bali’s best-known dishes — from babi guling to martabak manis

Together, they offered something truly special: an immersive, full-day deep dive into the island’s culinary and cultural heart. You didn’t just eat — this was a street food tour in Bali that let you connect with the people and traditions behind the food.

Although the Total Bali Food Tour is no longer available as a packaged experience, the good news is that both parts of the day are still available in an updated form. And I honestly think they’re even better now.

How to Recreate the Best Bali Food Tour in 2025 (and Why You Should)

While the original Total Bali Food Tour is no longer offered as a combo, you can absolutely still enjoy the full experience by booking two incredible food tours in Bali separately.

In fact, with a few thoughtful updates, it might just be even better now.

Morning: Hidden Rice Terraces Trek

Rows of young green rice plants growing in wet, muddy soil in a Balinese rice field.

Start your day with a peaceful walk through Bali’s countryside on Urban Adventures’ Hidden Rice Terraces Trek. This was the first part of the original tour, and it’s still one of the best ways to see a side of Bali most tourists miss.

You’ll visit a local market, try tropical fruits you’ve probably never heard of, and stroll through lush rice fields while your guide shares stories about the subak irrigation system and village life. It’s a grounding, immersive experience that helps you see Bali through the eyes of locals — not Instagram.

Book it as a stand-alone experience or as the perfect way to kick off a food-focused day.

Evening: Bali Heritage Food Tour

A traditional Balinese dish featuring babi guling (suckling pig), rice, tofu, and vegetables, served on a banana leaf.

In place of the original Eat Street tour, Urban Adventures now offers the Bali Heritage Food Tour — and honestly, it might be even more delicious. This new evening tour is all about Bali’s deep culinary roots, with stops at warungs and street food vendors where locals actually eat.

Think babi guling, soto ayam, martabak manis, and more —served with a side of history, hospitality, and late-night laughter.

Whether you’re a curious foodie or just love exploring through your tastebuds, this updated Bali street food tour gives you everything you came for (and then some).

My Tip: Do Both in One Day

That’s what I did, and it was the highlight of my entire trip to Bali. Book the rice terraces trek in the morning, rest or relax in the afternoon, then gear up for a delicious food crawl in the evening.

You’ll end the day full, happy, and so much more connected to the island than when you started.

One of my favorite things about Bali food tours is how easy it is to meet people as a solo traveler! If you’re planning a solo trip, don’t miss my Solo Female Travel Guide to Bali for even more fun ways to connect.

My Experience on the Original Total Bali Food Tour

Although the Total Bali Food Tour I took back in the day is no longer available as a combo, the experiences it included are still going strong — and honestly, it’s one of the most memorable travel days I’ve ever had.

Here’s what my full-day food and culture adventure in Bali looked like.

Trekking Through the Rice Fields of Kerobokan

Traditional Balinese houses with terracotta rooftops overlooking a serene green rice paddy.

The morning started with the Hidden Rice Terraces Trek, where we were picked up in Urban Adventures’ iconic VW Kombi van and whisked away to the rice paddies of Kerobokan. Before heading into the fields, we stopped at a subak temple, where our guide explained the traditional Balinese irrigation system that keeps the paddies flowing (and the community working in harmony with nature).

Pura Pangulun Subak, a Balinese subak temple, surrounded by ornate stone carvings and a gated entrance.

Then we set off on foot — walking between glimmering rice paddies, waving at farmers finishing their work for the day, and learning how this sacred crop is grown and harvested. It was peaceful, humbling, and an incredible contrast to the more touristy sides of Bali.

Tip: Wear shoes you don’t mind getting muddy. This is a real working landscape, not a staged photo op.

Exploring a Local Market

Rows of produce stalls filled with fruit and vegetables inside a covered Balinese market.
Intricate Balinese ceremonial offerings made of palm leaves for sale at a traditional market.

After the walk, our driver met us at the end of the trail and we headed back to the local market (which I had missed earlier due to a booking glitch — but they kindly circled back for me!).

This was one of my favorite parts of the day. Tucked away behind an old warehouse, the market was filled with vibrant stalls of fruits, flowers, and offerings, with locals bustling about and children weaving between stands.

We tried snake fruit and a few other tropical varieties I’d never seen before. Our guide shared insights into what locals cook at home, how the offerings are prepared daily, and the role food plays in Balinese rituals. It was an amazing window into everyday life.

Seminyak Street Food Tour: A Feast Begins

That evening, the second part of the tour began: a full-blown Bali street food tour in Seminyak.

We kicked things off with babi guling (Bali’s legendary roast suckling pig), served at a roadside warung. The meat was flavorful, the skin crisp, and the plate came stacked with different cuts so we could try everything. I’m still dreaming about that pork crackling.

Next up was soto ayam, a fragrant chicken noodle soup, along with grilled chicken and a crash course on all the staple dishes in Balinese home cooking — nasi goreng, satay, sambal, and more.

A warm bowl of soto ayam, traditional Indonesian chicken soup, topped with boiled eggs and fresh vegetables.

Even though we were stuffed, we rallied for dessert: thick, gooey martabak manis, cooked over coals in an earthenware pan.

I got mine with banana and Toblerone, and watching it bubble and crisp while the street lights glowed above us was the perfect way to wrap up the night.

A street vendor preparing Martabak Manis in clay pans over open coals during a Bali night food tour.
A plate of Martabak Manis topped with banana and chocolate, a sweet treat sampled on a Bali food tour.

Despite a few hiccups at the beginning of the day, this was hands-down one of the best food tours in Bali I could’ve asked for. It was immersive, delicious, and full of connection — not just to the food, but to the culture, history, and people behind it.

And now that both tours are still available separately — with the Bali Heritage Food Tour offering an even deeper dive into local dishes — you can still experience the magic, your way.

Bali Food Tour FAQs

Is the Total Bali Food Tour still available?

The exact Total Bali Food Tour combo I experienced is no longer offered.

But good news: you can still recreate the day by booking Urban Adventures’ Hidden Rice Terraces Trek in the morning and the Bali Heritage Food Tour in the evening.

It’s the same immersive experience — just split into two tours!

What do you eat on a Bali food tour?

A Bali food tour is the perfect way to taste the island’s rich culinary heritage, and you’ll sample a variety of local dishes that reflect Bali’s diverse flavors and traditions.

On the Bali Heritage Food Tour, you’ll try:

Babi Guling – Bali’s iconic roast pork dish, served in a traditional night market
Soto Ayam – A fragrant chicken noodle soup that’s a staple across Indonesia
Jaje Bali – A selection of traditional Balinese sweets and cakes
Authentic Indonesian Coffee – Served in an old-school antique coffeeshop
– Fusion bites – Think skewers, soups, and spicy sauces influenced by cultures from all across Indonesia

The tour also includes a walking exploration of Jalan Surapati and Jalan Gadjah Mada, where you’ll stop at historical landmarks and learn about Balinese culture, architecture, and food traditions as you go.

It’s truly a feast for all the senses — and one of the most immersive food tours in Bali today.

How do food tours in Bali work?

Most food tours in Bali are small-group experiences led by local guides. You’ll walk or ride between multiple stops — markets, street stalls, warungs — and try a variety of Balinese dishes. Some also include cultural experiences, like visits to temples or rice fields, depending on the tour.

Where does the Bali Heritage Food Tour take place?

The Bali Heritage Food Tour takes place in Denpasar, Bali’s bustling capital, where local life hums along far from the typical tourist path.

You’ll explore the area around Jalan Surapati and Jalan Gadjah Mada on foot, making stops at historical landmarks, traditional shops, and — most importantly — mouthwatering food stalls.

A highlight of the tour is a visit to Kreneng Market, one of the most beloved local night markets in Bali. This is where Balinese families actually eat out — at tiny warungs and roadside stalls serving up steaming bowls of soto ayam, crispy babi guling, and sweet jaje Bali.

It’s the kind of experience that gives you a real taste of daily life in Bali — fast, fresh, affordable, and absolutely delicious.

What if I have particular dietary requirements?

The Bali Heritage Food Tour offers a thoughtfully curated local food experience, but because many stops are small family-run warungs or traditional market stalls, not all dietary requirements can be accommodated.

Unfortunately, the tour cannot cater to vegan diets or those with gluten allergies or intolerances.

For any other dietary restrictions or preferences (such as vegetarian), it’s best to notify the tour operator at least 24 hours in advance so they can do their best to make adjustments.

If you have strict dietary needs, you may want to consider a private Bali food tour where the experience can be customized.

How much do food tours in Bali cost?

Prices vary, but expect to pay around $35–$60 USD per person depending on the tour. That generally includes food tastings, transport, and your guide.

Can I book both tours in one day?

Yes! That’s exactly what I did — and it was one of the most memorable days of my Bali trip.

Start your morning with the Hidden Rice Terraces Trek, then head out in the evening for the Bali Heritage Food Tour. Trust me, your belly and your heart will thank you.

Other Bali Food Tour Options

If you’re hungry for even more culinary adventures in Bali, you’re in luck! There are several other amazing food tours in Bali that dig into different corners of the island’s vibrant food scene — from bustling night markets in Denpasar to hidden gems in Ubud. Here are a few of the best-rated options to consider:

Ubud Traditional Night Market Food Tour – All Inclusive

This 3-hour Ubud food tour takes you deep into the heart of Gianyar Night Market, one of the most beloved traditional markets in Bali. You’ll learn about Balinese cuisine through the lens of Megibung, a local tradition of sharing meals, while sampling delicious cakes, savory dishes, and drinks.

Highlights:

  • Visit Gianyar Night Market with a local guide
  • Try traditional sweets, street snacks, and family-style dishes
  • Includes hotel pickup/drop-off from Ubud
  • All food and drinks are included

Not suitable for: Vegans, vegetarians, or those with severe dietary restrictions.

Bali Bites Food Tour – 15+ Tastings in Denpasar

If you’re the kind of traveler who wants to try everything, this is your tour. The Bali Bites food tour is a 4-hour feast through the streets of old Denpasar, offering 15+ tastings from longtime street vendors and local warungs. It’s intimate (max 8 guests) and filled with flavors you’d never find on your own.

Highlights:

  • 15+ tastings of Balinese and Javanese dishes
  • Explore Denpasar’s hidden food alleys and night markets
  • Small group size (max 8 guests) for a local, low-key vibe
  • Led by passionate foodie guides

Note: This tour is not suitable for vegetarians, vegans, or those with severe allergies.

Ketut’s Bali Cooking Class in Ubud

Learn more on Ketut’s website (or read my full review here)

Looking for a more hands-on foodie experience? Ketut’s Bali Cooking Class in Ubud is one of my all-time favorite activities. It’s not just a class — it’s a full cultural experience. You’ll visit the morning market, learn about local ingredients, and then cook up a storm at Ketut’s family compound.

Highlights:

  • Guided local market tour in the early morning
  • Learn how to make coconut oil, spice pastes, and Balinese classics
  • Cook and eat a full meal with multiple traditional dishes
  • Warm, welcoming atmosphere (and Ketut is a total gem!)

This is a must for foodies who want to bring a taste of Bali home with them.

No matter where you’re based in Bali, there’s a local food tour ready to take your taste buds on an adventure.

Try one (or all!) and get a real taste of the island beyond the beach bars and smoothie bowls.

Final Thoughts on Finding the Best Bali Food Tour

My experience with the Total Bali Food Tour (back when it was a combination of two Urban Adventures favorites) was one of the highlights of my time on the island. From walking through lush rice fields and local markets to digging into babi guling and martabak manis, it was everything I love about travel wrapped into one delicious day.

While that exact combo tour doesn’t exist anymore, you can absolutely recreate it — and even improve on it — with Urban Adventures’ Hidden Rice Terraces Trek and Bali Heritage Food Tour. Pairing these two tours together gives you the same immersive experience of local life and food, plus even more depth when it comes to history and culture.

And if you’re craving even more flavors? There’s a Bali food tour for everyone. Whether it’s cooking with Ketut in Ubud, grazing through Denpasar’s best warungs, or sampling sweets at a night market, you’ll leave full — in every sense of the word.

Hungry for help planning your perfect Bali itinerary? I’m a travel advisor, too—and I offer custom travel planning to take the stress out of your trip. Click here to learn more about my travel planning services.

And don’t forget to check out my full 4 Days in Ubud Itinerary and Bali Temples Guide to round out your trip.

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