Ubud Itinerary: 4 Days in Ubud for First-Timers

There’s just something about Ubud. Maybe it’s the sound of roosters crowing in the morning, the scent of incense wafting from daily offerings, or the way time seems to stretch out as you wander past rice fields and temples.

Whether you’re coming to Bali for a soul-searching journey, a digital detox, or just a really good smoothie bowl, Ubud is the perfect place to begin.

I spent 4 days in Ubud as a solo female traveler, and honestly? It was one of the highlights of my time in Bali.

This little town tucked into the heart of the island has a way of drawing you in slowly — with its jungle-draped temples, bustling art markets, sacred monkey forest, and peaceful walks through the countryside.

If you’re planning your first trip and wondering how to spend 4 days in Ubud, this itinerary will give you the perfect balance of culture, nature, relaxation, and delicious food (plus a few off-the-beaten-path surprises).

Whether you’re backpacking Bali or planning a midrange retreat, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your Ubud itinerary in 4 days.

Here are a few easy options to get from Denpasar to Ubud:

• Hotel Pickup: Most guesthouses and hotels in Ubud offer airport transfer services for a reasonable fee. It’s one of the easiest and most affordable ways to get to town, especially after a long flight.
• Pre-Booked Private Driver: You can also book a private driver in advance through a service like Klook or GetYourGuide.
• Airport Taxi: If you don’t arrange pickup, you can grab a taxi from the airport — just be sure to agree on a price or use the official taxi counter.
• Grab (the Southeast Asia version of Uber): This can be a cheaper option, but pickups from the airport can be tricky due to local taxi monopolies. It’s easier to Grab from other towns once you’re already in Bali.

If you’re already elsewhere on the island (like Seminyak, Canggu, or Uluwatu), you can get to Ubud by:

Scooter: If you’re comfortable riding, Ubud is easily accessible by scooter and the drive can be beautiful (but don’t attempt it if you’re a total beginner—Bali roads can be wild).

Hiring a Driver: Almost everyone in Bali is a driver. Ask at your accommodation — they’ll likely know someone.

How to Get Around Ubud

Ubud is walkable… kind of. Downtown is compact enough for exploring on foot, but many of the best experiences are a little spread out.

Here’s how most people get around:

• Walking: Great for the central area (think: Ubud Palace, art market, cafes).
• Scooter: Renting a scooter is super common and gives you tons of flexibility. Just make sure you have an international driver’s license and solid scooter skills.
• Grab/Gojek: These ride-hailing apps are super handy for short rides around town or getting home after a long day.
• Private Driver: For day trips and temple-hopping, hiring a driver is the way to go. It’s surprisingly affordable and way more relaxing than navigating on your own.

Where to Stay in Ubud

I stayed at Tu Sandat Homestay, a charming little guesthouse right in the center of town. It was budget-friendly, the room was massive, and the Balinese family who ran it were incredibly kind (and brought breakfast to my terrace every morning—literal heaven).

That said, the central location came with a side of chaos — think traffic, motorbike horns, and the occasional monkey sighting.

IIf you’re looking for a more peaceful stay, I recommend basing yourself just outside the main town center. Here are some of my favorite finds across all budgets, whether you’re solo traveling Bali, planning a romantic retreat, or on a chill girl’s trip.

Best Hostels in Ubud for Solo Female Travelers

If you’re traveling solo (or just on a budget), Ubud is packed with social, comfortable, and beautifully designed hostels — many of which go far beyond just a bed to crash in. These are some of the best options:

Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel (2025 Hoscars Winner)

This boutique hostel is basically the Ritz of hostels — if the Ritz had puppy therapy and free massages. It’s beautiful, social, and centrally located, with everything from a coworking space to Balinese dance nights and Mount Batur sunrise hikes. It’s ideal if you’re looking for something high quality but still want a social vibe.

Arya Wellness (Female-Only)

This 5-star wellness hostel is the spot for solo female travelers looking to relax and recharge. With yoga classes, massages, cooking classes, and daily social activities, it’s easy to meet like-minded women and still have plenty of alone time. The all-female vibe feels super safe and supportive.

Savanna Ubud

Modern, stylish, and designed with nature in mind. Savanna Ubud is a 10-minute walk from the Monkey Forest but feels like a peaceful hideaway. Free daily massages and yoga by the pool? Yes, please. Plus, their family dinners and day trips make it easy to connect with other travelers.

Bali Bamboo Jungle Huts and Hostel

If you’re looking for a truly unique and peaceful experience, this bamboo-built hostel tucked away in the rice fields is the place to go. It’s quiet, cozy, and just a 15-minute ride to central Ubud. There’s even a free shuttle to town and a pool overlooking the rice paddies. Come as a guest, leave as a friend.

Guesthouses, Mid-Range, and Luxury Stays

• Sahadewa House – A cozy Balinese homestay just under 2 miles from the center. Great for travelers looking to escape the crowds.
• Wayan Garden – Set among rice fields but still walkable to Ubud’s main attractions. Bonus: a beautiful pool.
• Mana Boutique – A jungle oasis with traditional Javanese architecture and a killer breakfast.
• Green Field Resort – Spacious rooms, a big pool, and a lovely setting just outside town.
• The Sankara Resort – Balinese villas, tropical gardens, and spa bliss.
• COMO Uma Ubud – Total indulgence with morning yoga, guided walks, and serene views over the Tjampuhan Valley.

Still not sure where to stay? As a Fora-certified travel advisor, I can help you find the perfect spot that fits your style, vibe, and budget—whether you want to be in the jungle, by the rice fields, or near a killer smoothie bowl. Click here to learn more about my custom travel planning services →

Your Perfect 4 Days in Ubud Itinerary

Now that you’ve got the logistics down — how to get here, where to stay, and how to get around — let’s get into the good stuff: exactly how to spend 4 unforgettable days in Ubud.

This Ubud itinerary blends all the best bits: cultural landmarks, jungle walks, sacred temples, delicious food, and those little moments of stillness that make Bali feel like magic.

I’ve mixed in must-dos (yes, you are going to the Monkey Forest) with off-the-beaten-path gems and plenty of downtime to soak it all in. Because honestly, Ubud isn’t the kind of place you want to rush.

Whether you’re a first-timer, a solo traveler, or just craving a deep breath of tropical air, here’s how to make the most of your 4 days in Ubud.

Day 1: Explore the Heart of Ubud

Your first day in Ubud is all about soaking in the energy of the town. It’s chaotic and charming all at once—full of buzzing scooters, sidewalk offerings, and the scent of incense in the air. Start your Ubud itinerary by exploring the downtown area, then wind down with a peaceful sunset walk along one of Ubud’s most beautiful trails.

Downtown Ubud: Culture, Markets, and Monkeys

Start your day by wandering the cultural core of Ubud. You won’t need a map — just follow the flow of sarong-clad tourists, temple gates, and artisan shops.

Here’s what to check off your list:

Ubud Art Market

Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s crowded. But it’s also the perfect place to shop for souvenirs like wicker bags, patterned sarongs, or locally made jewelry.

If you want the best deals, go early in the morning (before the tour buses roll in) and practice your haggling skills.

Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung)

Directly across from the market, this historic palace was once the residence of Ubud’s royal family. While you can’t enter every area, much of the outer courtyard is open to the public and free to wander.

Come back in the evening for traditional Balinese dance performances under the stars.

Taman Saraswati Temple

Just steps away, this stunning water temple is dedicated to Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and art. With its blooming lotus pond, traditional Balinese architecture, and serene atmosphere, it’s one of my favorite hidden-in-plain-sight spots in town.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Let’s be honest — you can’t come to Ubud and skip the monkeys. The Ubud Monkey Forest is home to over 1,000 long-tailed macaques who rule the jungle (and sometimes your backpack). The forest itself is lush, sacred, and surprisingly peaceful… unless a monkey steals your sunglasses.

Travel Tip: Keep your valuables tucked away and skip bringing snacks. These cheeky monkeys are adorable but very clever.

Golden Hour on the Campuhan Ridge Walk

After a busy morning, escape the chaos and head for one of Ubud’s most scenic spots — the Campuhan Ridge Walk. Sometimes called a hike, it’s really just a leisurely stroll… but with stunning views.

This paved trail weaves through lush hills with the jungle on one side and palm trees swaying in the breeze on the other. It’s especially magical around golden hour when the light softens and everything feels just a little more cinematic.

To get there, head toward the Warwick Ibah Villas entrance and look for signs to the ridge walk path — it can be a bit tricky to find, so don’t be afraid to ask a local for directions. There’s scooter parking near the entrance if you need it.

This is also a good guide to help you find your way!

Take your time walking (and snapping photos), and after about 30–45 minutes you’ll reach Karsa Kafe — an open-air café surrounded by rice fields, perfect for a fresh coconut or passion fruit juice break.

Once you’ve had your fill, you can either walk back the way you came or continue on through the village and loop around with a driver or Grab ride back into town.

Day 2: Temples & Traditions

Today’s all about diving deeper into Ubud’s spiritual and cultural side. Bali is known as the Island of the Gods for a reason — temples are everywhere, and each one is uniquely beautiful.

Whether you’re into ancient carvings, holy springs, or just want to understand more about traditional Balinese life, a temple-hopping day is a must on your Ubud itinerary.

And the best part? You don’t have to figure it out on your own. Hiring a driver for the day is super common in Bali (and surprisingly affordable).

Your driver can help you build a custom route and share stories along the way — or you can book a guided tour for a more structured experience.

Here’s what a perfect day of temple exploring might look like.

Two of the most popular temples near Ubud are Goa Gajah (the Elephant Cave), and Pura Titra Empul (one of Bali’s most famous water temples).

If you only wish to visit these two temples, you can combine it with a few other sites around Ubud. Here’s an example of a day tour from Ubud that you might do.

How to Book a Ubud Temple Tour

You have a few options depending on how adventurous you’re feeling:

• Hire a driver through your hotel or guesthouse. Easy, flexible, and you can customize your stops.
• Join a guided day tour. I booked this alternative temples tour that included six lesser-known temples plus Penglipuran Village, and loved every second of it. (It’s also a great choice if you want to avoid the crowds.)

By the end of the day, you’ll have explored centuries of history, walked barefoot across temple stones, and maybe even taken part in a spiritual ritual or two. It’s a day that gives you a deeper appreciation for Bali’s traditions — and a little more peace of mind, too.

Want to dive deeper into Bali’s spiritual side? Don’t miss my full guide to the best temples in Bali, including lesser-known gems and everything you need to know before you visit.

Day 3: Balinese Culture Immersion

By now, you’ve wandered Ubud’s rice fields, explored temples, and maybe even dodged a monkey or two.

Day 3 is the perfect moment to slow down and really connect with Balinese culture — through its food, its stories, and its art. Today’s Ubud itinerary is all about experiences that stay with you long after you leave.

Take a Balinese Cooking Class

If you do just one thing today, let it be this.

A Balinese cooking class is one of the best (and tastiest) ways to experience local life in Ubud. Not only will you learn how to make classics like mie goreng and peanut sauce from scratch, but you’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at Balinese home life, ingredients, and traditions.

I booked Ketut’s Bali Cooking Class, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of my entire trip.

The day started with a morning visit to the local market — fun fact: the Ubud Art Market actually functions as a food market for locals before tourists show up. Wandering past the fruit stalls and spice baskets while Ketut explained each item was such a fun way to start the day.

After the market, we headed to Ketut’s family compound, where we were greeted with a smile that could power the entire island. We learned how to make coconut oil the traditional way, then split into pairs to cook up a full-on feast. And I mean feast.

On the menu:

• Soto Ayam (chicken soup)
• Bumbu Bali (Balinese spice paste)
• Sate Ayam with peanut sauce
• Pepes Ikan (fish in banana leaf)
• Mie Goreng (fried noodles)
• Kolak Pisang (banana in palm sugar syrup)

Vegetarian options are available, and trust me, they don’t skimp on flavor.

We finished the class with full bellies, new friends, and a pile of recipes to take home. If you love food (or just want to do something really fun and hands-on), this is a must for your 4 day Ubud itinerary.

Watch a Traditional Balinese Dance

After an afternoon nap (you’ll need it after that feast), spend your evening diving into another side of Balinese culture: its performing arts.

Traditional Balinese dances are deeply spiritual and dramatic, telling stories from Hindu epics like the Ramayana through precise gestures, expressive eyes, and ornate costumes. They’re unlike anything you’ve probably seen before—and absolutely mesmerizing.

The most popular place to watch a show is at Ubud Palace, where nightly performances take place in the open-air courtyard. It’s easy to get tickets at the entrance or through your guesthouse.

Looking for something more off-the-beaten-path? Check out the local Kecak fire dance in nearby Junjungan Village. Just make sure to double-check the schedule — I scootered all the way out there one night only to find it wasn’t on!

You can also browse a full calendar of performances here (link to local listings or tourism board site if helpful).

By the end of the day, you’ll have cooked, eaten, danced (or at least watched others dance), and probably fallen even more in love with Ubud. That’s what this place does—it pulls you in slowly, one sensory moment at a time.

Day 4: Off the Beaten Path + Relaxation

For your final day in Ubud, it’s time to go full Bali cliché — but in the best possible way. Think rice fields, jungle air, a little adventure, and a lot of relaxation.

After a few busy days of temple-hopping and exploring, this is your chance to slow it all down and soak it all in.

Bike Through Ubud’s Rice Fields

While the Tegalalang Rice Terraces are undeniably beautiful, they’re also packed with tourists and Instagram swings. If you’re after something a little more serene (and way more fun), I highly recommend joining a downhill cycling tour instead.

I booked a bike tour that started at the rim of the Kintamani volcano and followed quiet roads down through local villages, rice terraces, and coconut groves. It wasn’t strenuous at all (mostly downhill the whole way!) and we made several stops to learn about Balinese rice farming, traditional homes, and everyday life in rural Bali.

We ended the tour with a delicious local lunch at a family-run warung — the perfect way to wrap up the morning. Sitting down to eat after a few hours of cycling made it all the more satisfying (and tasty).

One heads up: like many Bali tours, this one did include a stop at a coffee plantation with luwak coffee. I chose to skip the tasting due to ethical concerns, but thankfully, the rest of the experience was fantastic — and it’s easy to politely decline if you’re not interested.

Looking for a tour? This Ubud cycling tour is a great option with knowledgeable guides and an included lunch.

Whether or not you’ve already seen Tegalalang, biking through the less-touristy rice fields is a beautiful way to connect with the land—and your legs will thank you for that downhill breeze.

Head to the Spa

Treat Yourself at a Spa in Ubud

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After a morning of cycling through the countryside, there’s only one thing left to do: massage time.

Bali is known for its affordable and luxurious spa experiences, and Ubud is home to some of the best on the island. You can find simple massages starting around $10 USD — or go big with a full spa package (and still spend less than a dinner out in New York).

I treated myself to a 2-hour package at Sang Spa, which included:

• A full-body Balinese massage
• A body scrub and mask
• A dreamy flower bath (yes, the kind with petals floating on the surface)

All for around $33 USD. Absolute bliss.

Optional Afternoon Ideas

If you’re feeling re-energized after your spa time and want to make the most of your last evening, here are a few bonus ideas:

• Grab a smoothie bowl or nasi campur at one of Ubud’s cozy cafés
• Do a short sunset yoga session at The Yoga Barn
• Catch a second traditional dance performance

By the end of Day 4, you’ll have biked past palm trees, soaked in a tub of petals, and closed out your Bali adventure in the most peaceful way possible. Ubud really knows how to leave a lasting impression.

Is 4 Days in Ubud Enough?

Absolutely! 4 days in Ubud is the sweet spot for most travelers—especially if it’s your first time in Bali. It gives you enough time to hit all the highlights (like the Monkey Forest Sanctuary and Campuhan Ridge Walk), dive into local culture with a Balinese cooking class and temple tour, and still slow down to actually feel the magic of this place.

Only have 2 days? You can still see a lot, but expect to move fast and skip the slower experiences (like biking through the rice fields or getting a massage).

Got 5 days or more? Even better. You’ll have time to explore nearby waterfalls, hike Mount Batur, or join a full-day wellness retreat.

This 4-day Ubud itinerary is ideal for:

• First-time visitors looking to get a well-rounded taste of Bali
• Solo travelers who want culture, connection, and time to unwind
• Culture lovers who want more than just beaches and beach clubs

Optional Add-Ons or Swaps

Want to personalize your Ubud itinerary even more? Here are a few great experiences you can swap in or add on, depending on your interests:

• Tegalalang Rice Terrace – Best visited at sunrise if you want to beat the crowds and heat.
• Yoga or Wellness Retreat – The Yoga Barn and Radiantly Alive offer drop-in classes and full retreat programs.
• Try a Workshop – Learn traditional crafts like silversmithing, batik painting, or wood carving.

Day Trips from Ubud

• Mount Batur Sunrise Hike – Start your day before dawn with a guided trek up this active volcano. The payoff? A fiery orange sunrise above the clouds and a sense of accomplishment before breakfast.
• Tegenungan Waterfall – One of the closest waterfalls to Ubud and super photogenic. You can swim at the base or just admire the powerful falls from the viewpoint above.
• Tukad Cepung Waterfall – A hidden gem tucked inside a cave-like canyon, with beams of sunlight streaming through in the late morning. Magical, misty, and well worth the stairs.
• Coffee or Cacao Plantation Tour – Learn how Bali’s famous beans go from farm to cup. Many plantations offer tastings of traditional Balinese coffee, herbal teas, and chocolate — often in scenic jungle settings.

Travel Tips for Ubud First-Timers

Here are a few quick tips to help you make the most of your time in Ubud:

What to Wear at Temples – Shoulders and knees should be covered. Bring your own sarong or rent one at the entrance.

Staying Connected – Pick up a local SIM card at the airport or in Ubud. Telkomsel or XL Axiata have the best coverage.

When to Visit Ubud – Dry season (April-October) is ideal, but Ubud is lush and beautiful year-round. Expect more rain (and fewer crowds) November-March.

Solo Female Travel in Ubud – I felt very safe as a solo traveler. People are friendly, many locals speak English, and it’s easy to meet others — especially if you stay at a social hostel like Puri Garden or Arya Wellness. Trust your gut, as always, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if something feels off.

Looking for more solo tips? Grab my free Solo Female Travel Guide here.

FAQs About Visiting Ubud

Final Thoughts: Ubud in 4 Days

Ubud surprised me in the best possible way. It wasn’t just the dreamy rice fields or the temple gates draped in marigolds — it was the feeling of the place. The slow mornings with kopi Bali, the sound of gamelan music in the distance, the warmth of every smile.

If you’re craving a trip that balances adventure and introspection, culture and comfort, Ubud is it.

And if you’re feeling overwhelmed trying to plan the perfect Bali trip? I’ve got you. As a certified travel advisor, I help travelers plan custom itineraries that match their vibe, pace, and priorities, so you can stop stressing and start dreaming.

Click here to learn more about my custom travel planning services

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