When you think of Indonesia, Bali is probably the destination that comes to mind first. While all of Indonesia is amazing, if you only have a week to spend there, Bali is truly where you want to spend your time exploring. You can pack a ton into a 7-day Bali itinerary, from savoring the sandy beaches to visiting the historic temples to hiking a mountain at sunrise.
7-Day Bali Itinerary
With a 7-day Bali itinerary, you have time to explore the many different areas of Bali. While Ubud is obviously a must-visit, the other regions, from Canggu to Seminyak, offer so much to do and see, too.
Things to Do in Ubud
Ubud is the heart of Bali, and you can definitely devote a significant amount of time on your Bali itinerary to exploring here.
Visit The Sacred Monkey Forest
The Sacred Monkey Forest is both a holy site with three temples and a tourist destination with thousands of Balinese macaques roaming the grounds. Wandering through the banyan trees with the monkeys all around is definitely a unique and unforgettable experience.
Expand Your Yoga Practice
Bali is well-known as a yoga destination, and a session at one of the yoga studios in Ubud is a must-do on your Bali itinerary. The most famous place to practice yoga in Ubud is Yoga Barn, and you can easily do a drop in session for a variety of classes.
Soar in the Sky at Alas Harum
Head to Alas Harum on the outskirts of Ubud to spend some time high up in the air on zip lines, sky bikes, and a giant swing. This Instagram-ready experience is a blast as part of your Bali itinerary. Plus, Alas Harum is on the edge of the Tegalalang rice terrace, so you can check out the lush rice paddies out there, too.
Walk Around Saraswati Temple
While you’ll find incredible temples all over Indonesia, Saraswati Temple is located right in the center of Ubud, so it’s very easy to add to your 7-day Bali itinerary since it’s so convenient to get to. The beautiful temple is set in a water garden with a lotus pond, and it’s lovely to walk around and admire the architecture and intricate carvings.
Splash in Tibumana Waterfall
While the Tibumana waterfall is not far from central Ubud, it feels like an escape deep in the jungle. Once you arrive, it’s just a short walk to see the waterfall splashing down, and you can even jump into the water to immerse yourself in this special place.
Shop the Local Markets
If you want a souvenir (or several!) to remember your Bali trip, Ubud Market is the place to go. This big, bustling market features a wide variety of handmade goods – carvings to clothing and so much more – from local villages. Nearby Sukawati Art Market also has lots of handcrafted art and is a bit less overwhelming.
Things to Do in Seminyak
If beaches are high up on the list of your Bali itinerary, you need to spend some time in Seminyak.
Hit the Beaches
Seminyak is full of beaches, so you can simply stroll along the coast from one to another or find your perfect spot and hang out for a while. This is a popular area so you won’t be alone in paradise, but the beaches of Seminyak should be on every Bali itinerary.
Party at Potato Head
When you’re ready to party, head to Potato Head. This modern beach club in Seminyak has an infinity pool, swim up bar, and several restaurants. It’s a creative hotspot, hosting tons of events like film screenings and DJs for the dance floors.
Stroll the Shops
Along with beaches, Seminyak is stocked with shops that offer something for everyone. Search for handcrafted wares to take home in local stores or check out the mall at Seminyak Square for more great goods.
Things to Do in Canggu
Canggu is a mecca for surfers, so you have to put this place on your Bali itinerary if you the waves have you stoked, but you’ll find plenty more to do in Canggu, too.
Surf the Waves
Surfers of all ability levels flock to Canggu to catch a wave. If you already know how to surf, check out the breaks at Echo Beach. If you want to learn, you’ll find plenty of surf schools in Canggu who can teach you how to get in the water and up on a board.
Relax on the Beach
If you prefer to keep your feet on the sand, you’ll still appreciate the beaches of Canggu. The black sand of Echo Beach stands out from other Bali beaches, and the area is a little more secluded than some of the party spots.
Get Pampered at Plataran Canggu
The gorgeous resort of Plataran Canggu provides a tranquil atmosphere where you can indulge in some serious relaxation at Padma Spa. After your spa treatment, you’ll feel rejuvenated and ready to take on the rest of your Bali itinerary.
Watch the Sunset at Tana Lot
Tanah Lot is an iconic temple set out on a rock in the sea, and people flock here to see the stunning structure. Even though it’s crowded, watching the sunset over Tanah Lot is truly is an experience that should be on any Bali itinerary.
Ride Through the Rice Fields
Hop on a bike or a scooter and escape the busy area of Canggu for some tranquil time in the rice fields. While the Canggu rice fields might not be as well-known as some of the other rice terraces in Indonesia, they have a lovely charm and are a hidden gem to add to your Bali itinerary.
Things to Do in Kuta
Kuta is a tourist hot spot in Bali, and though the crowded atmosphere doesn’t appeal to everyone, all the people come here for a reason.
Hang Out at the Beach
Kuta Beach is probably the most-visited beach in Bali, so don’t expect a secluded experience here. Still, it’s a beautiful and fun spot to spend some time, and it’s such a popular place that it’s hard to visit Bali without at least checking it out.
Splash Around at Waterbom Bali
If you’re looking for more thrills in the water, you need to visit Waterbom Bali. This waterpark has tons of fun slides to get your heart racing, plus lazy rivers when you’re ready to slow down and float for a bit.
Explore the Kuta Art Market
You can easily walk over to Kuta Art Market from the beach to find souvenirs to bring home. The stalls offer gorgeous Balinese clothing, beautiful paintings, and fun trinkets to remember your travels by.
Things to Do in Uluwatu
On the southern tip of Bali, Uluwatu is full of beautiful views and stunning landscapes.
Visit Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple absolutely belongs on your Bali itinerary. This stunning temple sits atop a cliff overlooking the ocean, and it’s a breathtaking sight. If you want to catch a traditional Kecak dance, time your visit to the temple around sunset.
Karang Boma Cliff
It’s honestly hard to find a bad spot to see a sunset in Bali, but Karang Boma Cliff is by far the top spot. The fiery sky changing colors over this sheer limestone cliff sitting on the water’s edge is truly something special to behold.
Explore the Beaches
You’ll find some of the best beaches in Bali in Uluwatu. Thomas Beach is breathtaking yet relatively uncrowded, and Padang Padang is surrounded by cliffs and a perfect spot for swimming.
Things to Do on Nusa Penida Island
Nusa Penida is an island off the coast of mainland Bali. It’s easy to fit a day trip here into your 7-day Bali itinerary.
Trek to Kelingking Beach
Kelingking Beach is the crown jewel of Nusa Penida. The rocky cliff is also referred to as the “T-Rex” since it looks somewhat like the backbone of a dinosaur. To fully experience this amazing place, take pictures from the viewpoint overlooking the cliff, then traverse the ridge down to the beach itself.
Snorkel in Crystal Bay
This beautiful bay features a sandy beach and tranquil turquoise waters that are ideal for snorkeling. Under the water, you’ll see coral formations and might even spot turtles and manta rays.
Go Scuba Diving
If you’ve dreamed of learning how to scuba dive, Nusa Penida provides plenty of opportunities. Many dive centers on the island offer beginner dives. Sign up and get a peek at what lies under the water, as well as PADI courses if you want to get certified.
After seven days in Bali, you’ll probably be wishing you had more time to explore this magical island paradise!