Ultimate Ubud: Exploring the cultural heart of Bali
Claudia Jade
If you are planning a trip to Bali you have to spend some time in the serene and spiritual city of Ubud. Not just because of it’s many tourist attractions, but because it really is a special and sacred place, right at the heart of of Bali. Staying in Ubud is all about exploring Bali's culture and history; it's a chance to slow down, relax and admire your surroundings. It is centrally located in the middle of the island, so it’s a great place to base yourself if you want to explore other areas. Whether you are looking for an indulgent luxury experience or you're travelling on a budget, Ubud has a fantastic range of accommodation and activities to suit everyone. Read below for our top recommendations in each area..
8 Places • ago
Free

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 

Royal Kamuela Villas & Suites at Monkey Forest, Ubud
@claudiajade
Just a few minutes walk from the world Famous Monkey Forrest, these luxury villas are located in one of the best locations for easy access to Ubud’s top tourist attractions
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Luxury for less 

Adiwana Resort Jembawan
@claudiajade
Located close to Ubud Palace and Ubud Market, this wellness boutique resort offers a relaxed vibe with comfortable modern rooms, an outdoor pool, restaurant and spa center.
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Details

Mid- range accommodation 

Weda Cita Resort & Spa
@claudiajade
Situated 20 minutes walk from the Monkey Forrest. This resort is set in stunning tropical gardens, perfect for those who want to stay in the rainforest but still want to be close to the attractions
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Details

Budget option

Gynandha Ubud Cottage
@claudiajade
In a prime city center location close to the Saraswati temple, this hotel offers affordable accommodation for those on a budget without compromising too much on the quality.
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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. 

The Kayon Resort Ubud
@claudiajade
Our personal favorite resort in Ubud, set in a stunning remote location providing easy access to the city.
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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

Horison Ume Suites & Villas Ubud
@claudiajade
Luxury suites located in a quiet remote location with beautiful rainforest surroundings.
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Details
Blue Karma Dijiwa Ubud
@claudiajade
Hidden in the hillside, this resort is a perfect blend of traditional and modern design offering luxury suites that have been carefully crafted from Javanese wood and gives a truly authentic experience
Add to
Details
Kuwarasan A Pramana Experience
@claudiajade
Located in the heart of Tegallalang Village, this is a sophisticated resort offering luxury accommodation surrounded by rice fields and coconut trees
Add to
Details

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.

Free
Getaway to the Gili islands: which one to visit
The Gili Islands are a group of 3 small islands off the coast of Lombok, Indonesia and are easily accessible by boat from Bali. These islands are a must see if you ever get the chance to visit, they are home to some of the best beaches and crystal clear waters the earth has to offer. Each of the islands has its own vibe and offers a different kind of experience; in this guide we explain the differences between the islands, and recommend some places to stay on each one from personal experience.
Curated by Claudia Jade
7 Places • 1 Save • ago
Details
Free
Where to stay near Ngurah Rai (Bali's international airport)
If you are just beginning your adventure in Bali or coming to the end of your trip, you may want to stay close to the airport for a few nights so you’re not too far away. In this guide we’ll take you through the best regions to stay in the Denpasar area, and our favourite resorts within those areas.
Curated by Claudia Jade
6 Places • 1 Save • ago
Details

* * *
CURATED BY
Claudia Jade
Hello, I'm Claudia. An event manager and travel planner from Leeds UK, with a huge passion for travel and a mission to see as much of the world as I possibly can. Always the organizer, I spend much of my time researching destinations and planning trips for myself and others. Whether it’s a big group trip, a family holiday or a romantic get-away for two, I can save you time and help plan yours to perfection to create unforgettable experiences. My guides will take you through my top recommendations of where to stay, what to do and trips to take within your chosen destination. I'll also include the easiest ways to get around, best places to eat and give you some handy money saving tips along the way! If you have any questions at all or need help with anything travel related please do get in touch at traveltannant@gmail.com Go make some memories, Happy planning :)
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Ultimate Ubud: Exploring the cultural heart of Bali
Claudia Jade
If you are planning a trip to Bali you have to spend some time in the serene and spiritual city of Ubud. Not just because of it’s many tourist attractions, but because it really is a special and sacred place, right at the heart of of Bali. Staying in Ubud is all about exploring Bali's culture and history; it's a chance to slow down, relax and admire your surroundings. It is centrally located in the middle of the island, so it’s a great place to base yourself if you want to explore other areas. Whether you are looking for an indulgent luxury experience or you're travelling on a budget, Ubud has a fantastic range of accommodation and activities to suit everyone. Read below for our top recommendations in each area..
8 Places • ago
Free

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 

Royal Kamuela Villas & Suites at Monkey Forest, Ubud
@claudiajade
Just a few minutes walk from the world Famous Monkey Forrest, these luxury villas are located in one of the best locations for easy access to Ubud’s top tourist attractions
Add to
Details

Luxury for less 

Adiwana Resort Jembawan
@claudiajade
Located close to Ubud Palace and Ubud Market, this wellness boutique resort offers a relaxed vibe with comfortable modern rooms, an outdoor pool, restaurant and spa center.
Add to
Details

Mid- range accommodation 

Weda Cita Resort & Spa
@claudiajade
Situated 20 minutes walk from the Monkey Forrest. This resort is set in stunning tropical gardens, perfect for those who want to stay in the rainforest but still want to be close to the attractions
Add to
Details

Budget option

Gynandha Ubud Cottage
@claudiajade
In a prime city center location close to the Saraswati temple, this hotel offers affordable accommodation for those on a budget without compromising too much on the quality.
Add to
Details

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. 

The Kayon Resort Ubud
@claudiajade
Our personal favorite resort in Ubud, set in a stunning remote location providing easy access to the city.
Add to
Details

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

Horison Ume Suites & Villas Ubud
@claudiajade
Luxury suites located in a quiet remote location with beautiful rainforest surroundings.
Add to
Details
Blue Karma Dijiwa Ubud
@claudiajade
Hidden in the hillside, this resort is a perfect blend of traditional and modern design offering luxury suites that have been carefully crafted from Javanese wood and gives a truly authentic experience
Add to
Details
Kuwarasan A Pramana Experience
@claudiajade
Located in the heart of Tegallalang Village, this is a sophisticated resort offering luxury accommodation surrounded by rice fields and coconut trees
Add to
Details

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.

Free
Getaway to the Gili islands: which one to visit
The Gili Islands are a group of 3 small islands off the coast of Lombok, Indonesia and are easily accessible by boat from Bali. These islands are a must see if you ever get the chance to visit, they are home to some of the best beaches and crystal clear waters the earth has to offer. Each of the islands has its own vibe and offers a different kind of experience; in this guide we explain the differences between the islands, and recommend some places to stay on each one from personal experience.
Curated by Claudia Jade
7 Places • 1 Save • ago
Details
Free
Where to stay near Ngurah Rai (Bali's international airport)
If you are just beginning your adventure in Bali or coming to the end of your trip, you may want to stay close to the airport for a few nights so you’re not too far away. In this guide we’ll take you through the best regions to stay in the Denpasar area, and our favourite resorts within those areas.
Curated by Claudia Jade
6 Places • 1 Save • ago
Details

* * *
CURATED BY
Claudia Jade
Hello, I'm Claudia. An event manager and travel planner from Leeds UK, with a huge passion for travel and a mission to see as much of the world as I possibly can. Always the organizer, I spend much of my time researching destinations and planning trips for myself and others. Whether it’s a big group trip, a family holiday or a romantic get-away for two, I can save you time and help plan yours to perfection to create unforgettable experiences. My guides will take you through my top recommendations of where to stay, what to do and trips to take within your chosen destination. I'll also include the easiest ways to get around, best places to eat and give you some handy money saving tips along the way! If you have any questions at all or need help with anything travel related please do get in touch at traveltannant@gmail.com Go make some memories, Happy planning :)
Send A Tip
Support Claudia Jade’s work.
Select your tip amount
$5
$10
$20
$50
Or type in other amount
Feeling overwhelmed?
Thatch can help.
Send a request and we'll handpick a list of Thatch-verified travel creators who would love to help with your trip.
No request is too big or small...
"Research places for beach trips this winter."
"Help me plan a romantic getaway to Milan."
"Find and book kid-friendly activities in Paris."
"Curate a walking tour of historic Berlin."
"Suggest wineries worth visiting in Napa."
You can relax now :)
Person laying on a bed relaxing
Powered by Thatch
The home for unique & authentic travel
Powered by Thatch: Where great trips are made.
© Claudia Jade Privacy Terms