The Best Cities in Bali to Visit

It’s no secret that Bali is one of the most beautiful places on earth. From its beaches to its mountains, from its jungles to its temples, it’s pretty much impossible not to fall in love with this island.

But even though it has so much to offer, it can be a bit overwhelming to decide where to go and what to do there.

So I’ve put together this list of the best cities in Bali to get an idea of where you’ll have the best time.

Kuta

Kuta is the most touristy place in Bali. All you hear about it is how crowded and expensive it is. But guess what? It’s also got good food and a fantastic beach to boot.

I’m not going to lie. It’s a bit of a tourist trap. The beaches are packed with people, and you’ll pay a little more for everything here than in other parts of the island. 

The main attraction here is the beach, which is excellent for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. There are also many restaurants along the beachfront if you want to go for a swim and grab lunch or dinner afterward.

You can go shopping, visit museums, eat at restaurants, and even tour temples or volcanoes. And if you’re looking for something more laid-back? No problem. You can just sit back and enjoy street performances from local artists or walk along the beach with friends.

Best Things to do:

• Surfing at Kuta Beach
• Visit Waterbom Bali
• Have a drink at Sky Garden Lounge

Best Hotels:

• COMO Uma Canggu
• Aryaduta Bali
• Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort

Best Restaurants:

• Warung Nikmat [Asian, Indonesian, Vegetarian-Friendly]
• Warung Murah [Indonesian, Vegetarian-Friendly, Vegan Options]
• Made’s Warung [Asian, Indonesian, Vegan-Friendly]

Ubud

Ubud is the cultural capital of Bali. This is a great place to start if you’re looking for someplace to get a taste of Balinese culture.

For starters, there are temples and museums everywhere. You can visit the Monkey Forest Temple, which is home to hundreds of monkeys and is a great way to get up close and personal with these adorable creatures. Or you can see the Museum Puri Lukisan, which houses some of the finest examples of Balinese art worldwide. This museum is a must-see if you’re interested in learning more about Balinese culture.

In addition to all its cultural offerings, this cultural capital also has some great cafes and restaurants. There are Luwak Coffee shops for those who like coffee shops with a twist. This one serves coffee made from beans that civets have eaten.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip or an adventure-filled weekend trip full of new experiences and sights, Ubud has it all.

Best Things to do:

• Visiting the Monkey Forest
• Walkthrough the Tegallalang Rice Terraces
• The Bali Swings

Best Hotels:

• Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
• Chapung Sebali Resort & Spa
• Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan

Best Restaurants:

• The Jungle Fish Pool Bar [Bar, International, Mediterranean]
• Locavore [International, European, Asian]
• Ely’s Kitchen Ubud [Asian, Healthy]

Sanur

Sanur is an up-and-coming area for couples who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the rest of Bali. It’s a tranquil area that offers tranquil waters and beaches galore.

It’s a prime location for those looking to relax on the beach, in a hammock, or around a pool. The area is also known for its romantic restaurants, bars, and beautiful sunsets over the ocean.

The best part about Sanur? You can fight for space with other tourists. The city is just far enough away from Kuta that it won’t be crowded like other popular tourist destinations in Bali, so you’ll have more time to enjoy yourself.

If you’re looking for a peaceful vacation on your honeymoon or anniversary, Sanur is a great option.

Best Things To Do:

• Tour Museum Le Mayeur
• Visit Pasar Sindu Night Market
• Shop at Hardy’s

Best Hotels:

• Andaz Bali
• Hyatt Regency Bali
• Maya Sanur Resort & Spa

Best Restaurants:

• Wok Wok [Chinese, Asian]
• Fisherman’s Club [Seafood, Grill]
• Naughty Nuri’s Sanur [American, Steakhouse]

Canggu

Canggu is a great place to visit if you want some relaxation and time in the sun. It’s known as the surfers’ paradise and has long been a favorite place for people who want to escape it.

Surfers have long enjoyed the waves made famous by this coastline, but its increasing popularity among digital nomads brings more visitors.

Coffee shops and restaurants line the beach, making them a pleasant place to work from your laptop or tablet.

The beach here is also great for swimming and body surfing when the waves aren’t too big. It’s shallow enough for kids but deep enough for adults too.

If you’re looking for a place that’s less crowded than Bali’s other popular destinations, Canggu is the perfect choice for you.

Best Things To Do:

• Visit La Laguna
• Surf at Echo Beach
• Visit at Pura Tanah Lot Temple

Best Hotels:

• Theanna Eco Villas and Spa
• Shore Amora Canggu
• Lv8 Resort Hotel

Best Restaurants:

• St Tropez [French, Bar]
• Sa’Mesa Canggu [Italian, European]
• Finns VIP Beach Club [International, Bar]

Amed

If you’re looking for a vacation spot that has it all, look no further than Amed. This beach town is the perfect place for backpackers and scuba divers alike to relax and unwind.

But what truly makes it a destination worth visiting is its underwater life, a rare treat for travelers looking to see something different.

You can find cheap accommodation here, making it an affordable option for backpackers or those traveling on a budget.

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination close to other sights in Bali, Amed is worth checking out.

Best Things To Do: 

• Visit Mount Agung Viewpoint
• Visit Tirta Ganga
• Take Instagrammable Pictures at Pura Lempuyang Temple

Best Hotels:

• Mathis Lodge Amed
• The Griya Villas And Spa
• Villa Bukit Segara

Best Restaurants:

• Warung Ketut [Seafood, Grill]
• Warung Agung Aed [Chinese, Seafood]
• Warung Sabar [Seafood, Asian]

Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua is excellent for golfing, high-end resorts, and water sports.

With high-end resorts, golf courses, and water-sport facilities, it’s the perfect place to relax after a long day of sightseeing around the island.

The atmosphere is very family-friendly, and plenty of activities keep everyone entertained.

One of my favorite things in Nusa Dua is swimming in the ocean. The beaches are beautiful and perfect for swimming, surfing, and pretty much any other aquatic activity you can think of.

There are also some great restaurants where you can enjoy lunch or dinner while watching the waves crash onto the shore.

If you’re looking for something more active than just lounging by the beach all day long, check out one of Nusa Dua’s many water parks or go parasailing.

Best Things To Do:

• Admire the beauty of Water Blow
• Visit Pasifika Museum
• Visit Puja Mandala

Best Hotels:

• The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali
• Ayodya Resort Bali
• Melia Bali

Best Restaurants:

• Izakaya by Oku [Japanese, Sushi]
• Bai Yun [Chinese, Asian]
• Prego [Italian, Pizza]

Pecatu

Uluwatu is Bali’s southernmost area, home to the island’s iconic temple and many stunning beaches. It’s one of my favorite places on Earth.

It’s where you’ll find Pura Luhur Uluwatu, the most famous temple in Bali. You can also watch surfers ride the waves at Kecak Beach, the same beach featured in Eat Pray Love.

But what makes it unique is its incredible variety. There are scenic beaches for swimming, surfing, snorkeling, diving, jungle hikes that take you deeper into nature, and even a few surprises like hidden caves where you can see monkeys playing around in their natural habitat.

If you’re planning on going there soon, reserve enough time for everything because once you arrive at Uluwatu, you’ll never want to leave.

Best Things To Do:

• Visit Uluwatu Temple
• Watch Kecak & Fire Dance
• Surf at Uluwatu Beach

Best Hotels:

• Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort
• Alila Villas Uluwatu
• Six Senses Uluwatu, Bali

Best Restaurants: 

• Ulu Garden [Europeaan, Fusion]
• Gooseberry [Contemporary, Barbecue]
• Tarabelle [American, Korean]

Jimbaran

Jimbaran is one of the most popular beach towns in Bali. It’s an easy day trip from Kuta, but if you’re looking for a place to stay, there are several family-friendly resorts with high-end spas where you can enjoy delicious seafood at beach shacks.

If you’re looking for a relaxing place that’s also fun for kids and adults alike, Jimbaran is a great option. The town is beautiful, with white sand beaches and clear blue waters that feel like paradise on Earth.

Luckily for you, all the hotels in the area are within walking distance of the beach, so you won’t have to worry about finding transportation when it’s time to go home after an afternoon of fun in the sun.

Best Things To Do:

• Visit Uluwatu Temple
• Lounge at Jimbaran Beach
• Surf at Padang Padang Beach

Best Hotels:

• Cross Bali Breakers
• Movenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran Bali
• RIMBA by AYANA Bali

Best Restaurants:

• Mama Chew 360 Rooftop Jimbaran Bali [Seafood, Asian]
• La Brasserie [Asian, Indonesian]
• DAVA Steak & Seafood Restaurant [Steakhouose, Seafood]

Kerobokan

A must-visit for people who want to experience everything a city has in just one trip. It’s one of Bali’s lesser-known cities, but it’s a must-see for anyone looking to experience what Bali has to offer.

This is the perfect city for a first-timer to Bali. It’s close to Seminyak and Kuta so that you can visit the best beaches on this side of the island, but it’s far enough away that you don’t have to deal with all the tourists.

Plus, Umalas has a small but friendly community that makes it easy for visitors to make friends and get to know locals.

If you’re looking for somewhere quiet where you can relax after spending time at these beaches, Umalas makes an excellent choice. It’s quieter than Seminyak and Kuta but close enough that you’ll quickly get around without feeling stuck in a remote location.

Best Things To Do:

• Petitenget Beach
• Batu Bolong Beach
• Hang out at Nook Bali Cafe

Best Hotels:

• Monolocale Resort
• Sana Vie Villa
• The Santai

Best Restaurants:

• Ketela Eatery & Lifestyle [International, Asian]
• Little Singapore By Chef Bernard [Seafood, Singaporean]
• Huge Restaurant [Seafood, European]

Seminyak

If you’re visiting Bali and don’t get the chance to stop by Seminyak, you’re missing out. This trendy and stylish beach town is popular with tourists from all over the world.

Its upmarket area has excellent resorts, shacks, bars, and luxury boutiques. It’s also home to Bali’s best dining, shopping, and nightlife.

I’ve been to many beaches in my day, but none like this one.

The sand is soft and smooth, the water so clear you can see to the bottom no matter how deep you dive. The waves are small and not at all overwhelming, which makes it easy for me to relax and enjoy myself on them.

You can get surfing lessons or go snorkeling off the coast if that floats your boat. If you’re feeling adventurous and want something more extreme, there’s always scuba diving, but I recommend getting some training first.

Seminyak has a very cosmopolitan feel and is where you’ll see people from all over the world, from Europe to Asia to Australia, enjoying themselves in this vibrant town.

Best Things To Do:

• Visit the Pura Petitenget Temple
• Visit Double Six Beach
• Check Out Ku De Ta

Best Hotels:

• FuramaXClusive Ocean Beach Seminyak
• Courtyard by Marriott Bali Seminyak
• Double Six Luxury Hotel Seminyak

Best Restaurants:

• Boy’N’Cow [Diner, Dining Bars]
• Naughty Nuri’s Seminyak [American, Steakhouse]
• Sukun Restaurant Kuta [Indonesian]