7 Best Things To Do in Ubud, Bali

Be honest—how long has Bali been sitting on your vision board? If your answer is “longer than my last situationship,” then hi, bestie, it’s time to actually go.

And not just anywhere in Bali… we’re talking Ubud, the effortlessly cool heart of the island and one of the most picturesque places you’ll ever experience.

This isn’t just another “nice place to visit.” Ubud is a full-blown romantic destination, a spiritual playground, a foodie heaven, and, IMO, one of the best tourist places for couple trips and solo glow-ups alike. Whether you’re on a tight budget or pretending money isn’t real, there’s something here for you.

Ready to fall in love with a destination? Let’s go.

1. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary – Where chaos meets cute

A monkey at a Balinese temple sits near offerings and a Hindu statue

Okay, first things first: yes, the monkeys are savage. Yes, one tried to steal my sunglasses. And yes, I STILL think it’s one of the most iconic, must-visit places in Ubud.

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a lush jungle playground with moss-covered temples and ancient statues that look straight out of a fantasy movie.

The vibe is equal parts peaceful and unhinged (thanks to our monkey friends ✨).

Pro tip: Don’t carry food in your bag unless you want to be publicly robbed by a tiny furry criminal.

Why you’ll love it: It’s one of the most picturesque places in Bali and gives serious “main character in a jungle movie” energy.

2. Tegalalang Rice Terraces – Peak aesthetic, zero filter required

rice, paddy field, nature, ubud, bali, field, agriculture, plant, jungle, green, cultivate, biological, ubud, ubud, ubud, ubud, ubud

You’ve seen them all over Instagram, and trust me, they’re even better in real life. The Tegalalang Rice Terraces are hands down one of the most beautiful scenery spots in all of Bali.

Bright green, layered, dreamy, and unreal.

Walking through the terraces feels surreal, like you accidentally stepped into a painting that also offers coconut water.

Travel tip: Go early in the morning to avoid tourist crowds and the sun trying to personally attack you.

Why people love it: It’s a top romantic destination and seriously one of the best tourist places for couple photos ever created by Mother Earth herself.

3. Tegunungan Waterfall – Free therapy, but make it cold

If you need a spiritual cleanse, a mental reset, or just a dramatic backdrop for your Bali pics – Tegunungan Waterfall is the answer.

There’s something unreal about standing in front of a giant waterfall, feeling the mist on your face, and pretending you’re starring in a music video.

I once stood there questioning my entire existence, and honestly? 10/10 would recommend.

Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes. The stairs are not here for beginners in life or leg day.

Why it slaps: It’s one of the most picturesque places in Bali and perfect for adventurers, couples, and solo travelers trying to “find themselves.”

4. Campuhan Ridge Walk – Main character energy unlocked

Drone shot capturing lush green rice terraces surrounded by palm trees.

This is for the soft, romantic, let me listen to indie music and stare into the distance crowd.

The Campuhan Ridge Walk is a scenic path with rolling green hills on both sides and golden sunsets that make you question every decision you made not to move to Bali permanently.

It’s peaceful, simple, and so beautiful it feels unreal.

Travel hack: Go during sunset with a charged phone and a fully open heart.

Why people fall in love: It’s one of the most underrated, romantic destinations in Ubud and perfect for slow, meaningful travel moments.

5. Ubud Palace & Art Market – Culture + chaos + cute souvenirs

Charming collection of antique kitchenware and decor on display indoors, exuding vintage elegance.

If you want a taste of real Balinese culture (plus some shopping therapy), head straight to Ubud Palace and the Ubud Art Market.

The palace is stunning with intricate details and royal vibes. And the market? Oh, she loves attention.

You’ll find:

  • Handmade bags
  • Wooden décor
  • Silver jewellery
  • Dreamy boho dresses
  • Souvenirs you definitely don’t need but will buy anyway

Important tip: Bargain. This is not a suggestion. This is law.

Why you’ll adore it: It’s perfect for cultural lovers and one of the best budget friendly tourist places in Ubud.

6. Bali Swing – For your wild, dramatic Insta era

Not to be dramatic… but the Bali Swing changed my personality for the entire day.

You basically sit on a swing hanging over a jungle while someone pushes you into the sky like your ex pushed your emotions over the edge. But in a good way. 😌

It’s thrilling, aesthetic, terrifying, and incredibly worth it.

Pro tip: Wear a flowy dress if you want those Pinterest-worthy shots.

Why it’s iconic: Nothing screams most picturesque places + romantic destination quite like this.

7. Ubud’s Café Scene – Because food = happiness

Barista serving coffee to a customer at Café Lux in Bodrum, Turkey.

Here’s the truth: Ubud might be the only place where every café looks like a Pinterest board and every smoothie is art.

Some must-try vibes:

  • Clear Café – Veggie heaven with a spiritual twist
  • Yellow Flower Café – Cozy and romantic AF
  • KAFE – Healthy, chic, perfect brunch location

I had the best smoothie bowl of my life here and I still think about it like an old crush.

Travel tip: Try at least one local Balinese dish like Nasi Campur or Mie Goreng while you’re here. Trust me.

Why people go crazy for it: It’s one of the best tourist places for couple lunches, solo café hopping, and budget friendly trips.

Why Ubud is the Ultimate Romantic & Budget-Friendly Destination

Let’s talk facts.

Ubud is:
✅ One of the most romantic destinations in Southeast Asia
✅ Packed with beautiful scenery and spiritual energy
✅ Affordable for backpackers + boujee couples alike
✅ Perfect for honeymoons, solo trips & best friend vacations
✅ One of the best budget friendly tourist places in the world

You can live your luxury life on a budget and feel like royalty while doing it.

IMO, it’s the best place to romanticise your life, heal your soul, and, you know, “accidentally” extend your trip for a month.

Final Thoughts: Book the trip. Trust the vibe.

Ubud isn’t just a destination—it’s a whole mood. It’s the kind of place that makes you rethink your routine, romanticize your life, and maybe even Google “How to move to Bali permanently” at 2 a.m.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a best tourist place for couple goals, or a budget-friendly spiritual escape, Ubud shows up and shows out – every single time.

So tell me… are we booking the trip tomorrow or are we lying to ourselves again? ✈️🌴✨

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