Bali travel guide
Bali is an Indonesian island known for Hindu temples, rice terraces, surf beaches and a large community of remote workers. Distances are short on the map but traffic is slow, so choosing where to stay matters.
Best time to visit Bali
The dry season runs roughly April to October, with sunny days and lower humidity. July and August are the busiest months.
November to March is the wet season, with heavy but often short afternoon downpours. Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence in March, closes the whole island, including the airport, for 24 hours.
Getting to Bali
International flights land at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in the south, close to Kuta, Seminyak and Jimbaran. Many routes connect through Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta or Doha.
Recent round-trip fares Aviasales travellers found recently. Tap a route to see that trip and today's price on Aviasales.
Getting around
Drivers and ride-hailing
There is no train network. Most visitors hire a private driver for day trips or use ride-hailing apps such as Grab and Gojek where they operate.
Scooters
Scooters are common, but you need a valid licence that covers motorbikes, a helmet and confidence in heavy traffic.
Islands nearby
Fast boats leave from Sanur to Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan, and from Padang Bai and Serangan to the Gili Islands and Lombok.
Top things to do in Bali
1. Ubud and the rice terraces
Ubud is Bali's cultural centre, with the Sacred Monkey Forest, art markets and the Tegallalang rice terraces just to the north.
See tickets & tours on Klook ›2. Uluwatu Temple and Kecak dance
A clifftop temple on the southern tip, best visited in the late afternoon for the sunset Kecak fire dance.
See tickets & tours on Klook ›3. Mount Batur sunrise trek
A guided early-morning hike up an active volcano to watch the sunrise over Lake Batur.
See tickets & tours on Klook ›4. Nusa Penida day trip
Steep cliffs and viewpoints such as Kelingking Beach, reached by fast boat from Sanur.
See tickets & tours on Klook ›Practical tips
- Bali charges foreign visitors a tourism levy, payable online before arrival or at the airport. Check the official Love Bali website for the current amount.
- Wear a sarong and sash at temples; many lend or rent them at the entrance.
- Leave extra time for road journeys: short distances can take an hour or more in traffic.
Bali travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Bali?
April to October is the dry season and the most reliable for beaches and hiking. May, June and September are drier than the wet season but less crowded than July and August.
Where should I stay in Bali?
Seminyak and Canggu suit beaches, cafés and nightlife, Ubud suits culture and nature, and Uluwatu suits surfing and cliff-top views. Many people split their stay between two areas.
Do I need a visa for Bali?
It depends on your nationality. Check Indonesia's official immigration website before you book.