The Perfect Week in Bali: How to See Northeast and South Bali in One Week

Hey fellow wanderer,

If you're planning a trip to Bali, you're in for a treat!

With endless beautiful beaches, jungle waterfalls, delicious healthy food, spas, and exceptionally kind locals, it's not surprising that Bali is one of the most popular destinations in the world. The gorgeous island offers much, from stunning beaches to breath-taking rice terraces and real cultural experiences.

To make the most of your time on the island, I'm sharing an itinerary for a perfect week in Bali that allows you to explore Northeast and South Bali. This is the perfect itinerary for your first visit to Bali, with time for rest and adventure.

Stay 3 Nights in Seminyak

Start your journey by staying a few nights in Seminyak. This trendy beach town is known for its upscale resorts, world-class restaurants, and lively nightlife. By basing yourself here, you'll have easy access to some of the best attractions in the area, and Uluwatu will be 45 minutes to 1 hour away (subject to traffic conditions). I stayed at Lloyd's Inn and booked the Big Sky room for $160 per night with breakfast included. It was perfectly located in the city center with restaurants, bars, shops, and beaches footsteps away, yet secluded enough for ultimate tranquillity at night. You can also explore luxury resorts or villas with private pools as of $95 per night. (Full itinerary with top selections HERE).

Day 1: Explore Seminyak

Spend your first day exploring Seminyak itself. Relax on the golden sandy beaches, take a dip in the ocean, or indulge in some retail therapy at the numerous boutique shops along Jalan Raya.

Day 2: Full-day trip to Tanah Lot & North Bali

I’d suggest you book a private tour for this one (ask for guide Yogakamareka). It was picturesque and absolutely worth it. We visited Tanah Lot, Ulun Danu Bratan Temple, Jatiluwih Green Land, and the Banyumala Twin Waterfalls.

In the afternoon, enjoy a perfect sunset and dinner at Potato Head Beach Club, La Brisa Bali or the famous Rock Bar Bali. 

Day 3: Full-day Tour Nusa Penida Islands

After breakfast, head straight to enjoy a full-day tour of the Nusa Penida islands. The island offers some of the world's most beautiful diving sites. It's famous for its picturesque beauty and the famous Manta Point, where you can swim along with the magnificent manta rays.

For a memorable dining experience later, book a slot at The Cave Bali. It is a stunning natural cave with a delectable 7-course dinner menu and a beautiful light show.

Day 4: Visit Uluwatu

After enjoying activities and a few busy days, I am sure you would want to indulge in relaxation. So, it's time for a well-deserved spa treatment. Bodyworks is one of the best and most popular Spas in Bali, and trust me, you will enjoy every moment of it.

Venture south to Uluwatu, famous for its breath-taking cliffside temples and world-class surf breaks. Don't miss the iconic Uluwatu Temple, perched on a dramatic cliff overlooking the ocean. Stay until sunset for an unforgettable experience as traditional Balinese dancers perform against a backdrop of fiery skies. The Kecak and Fire dance starts at 18.00 daily and lasts for an hour. Be on time to enjoy the majestic performance at the amphitheatre located in the Uluwatu Temple complex.

Stay 4 Nights in Ubud

After exploring Seminyak, it's time to move inland and immerse yourself in the cultural heart of Bali - Ubud. Better known as the cultural epicenter of Bali, Ubud is a tranquil and relaxing escape away from the party scenes of Bali. Renowned for its massive green landscapes, traditional arts and crafts, cultural and spiritual retreats.

From Seminyak it’s a 1-hr drive to Ubud Center (subject to traffic conditions).

I stayed at Bucu View Resort and booked a villa with a private pool for $130 per night. The resort was everything I expected it to be; centrally located but still tucked away in nature near the river (I could literally see it flowing from my room), beautiful and comfortable rooms, great service and facilities, and within walking distance from the bustling Ubud Center with many restaurants, cafes, and shops. Bonus: it’s a 10-minute walk from the Monkey Forest and Ubud market.

Day 1: Explore Area

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the resort, head straight to explore the nearby areas. One of the most popular tourist activities is to meet the cheekiest primates on the island, so visit the Monkey Forest ($6 entrance fee), and wander around Ubud Center after. A highly recommended dinner spot would be Simply Social Café.

Day 2: Discover Ubud's Rice Terraces

Start your Ubud adventure by visiting the famous Tegalalang Rice Terraces. Marvel at the intricate irrigation system used for centuries and take in the stunning views of the cascading rice paddies. For an even more immersive experience, you can join a guided trek through the terraces.

You can also plan to visit Alas Harum rice terrace ($4 entrance fee). The best swing experience would be the Single Angle Swing (+$13) and for the ladies, you can rent a dress if you wish for an extra $12. You can have a nice lunch, do other activities like zip lining, and chill at their infinity pool with good music and drinks.

Right across the street from Alas Harum, you’ll find Tebasari Resto Bar & Lounge at which we’ve had an amazing dinner after.

Day 3: Full-day Gate of Heaven and more

Lempuyang temple known as The Gate of Heaven is one of the most famous sights in Bali and is one of the oldest and most sacred temples. I booked an early morning tour to skip the crowd (ask for guide Gusti). We left the Resort at 4:30 AM and it was absolutely worth it.

Besides the temple, we also visited the Tirta Gangga and a Resort in Sidemen for delicious a lunch and an amazing infinity pool-day near the flowing river.

To end the night, book a dinner experience at Kamandalu Resort. I booked a private three-course dinner including a boat ride for $115 p.p. and they did not disappoint, highly recommended.  

 Day 4: Waterfall hopping

It is no secret that Bali is home to spectacular waterfalls. Start as early as you can to see as many waterfalls as you can. I booked a private driver and a photographer with Bali 99 Tour for 10 hours for approx. $130 (it was the 4 of us).

Some of my favorites include Leke Leke, Tukad Cepung, Kanto Lampo, Gembleng, Gitgit, Sekumpul and Tegenungan Waterfalls.

Best time to visit Bali

Bali's dry season runs from May to September, remaining clear and sunny with occasional rain. It's the peak tourist season, and as expected, it is crowded most of the time, resulting in higher prices, expensive accommodations & activities.

Bali's low season is from October to November and from February to March. These months are also wet months with grey, overcast, and gloomy skies. Luckily, I visited in early December (3-10) and did not experience rain. I recommend planning around these dates as the rates are cheaper, the crowds are manageable, and there are fewer waiting periods at the popular tourist sites. Though the beaches are not in the best condition due to the rains, you can still enjoy some of the must-do activities in Bali.

Taking a trip to Bali soon? Here's a FULL travel plan with suggested accommodations, other activities and Bali hidden gems! All you’ll have to do is pack your bags and show up at the airport.

Need some extra help curating a personalized itinerary for your next adventure? Feel free to request a quote HERE.

Bon voyage,

Juliska