One day in Bali might feel like a blink, but with the right plan, you can pack in a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Grab your sense of adventure and a strong coffee because it’s time to make that fleeting day in Bali one for the books. Here’s how to fill your schedule with unforgettable experiences that will make you wish you had more than just 24 hours.
Morning: Rise and shine at the rice terraces
Start your day early to catch the sunrise over the stunning Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Ubud, so set that alarm clock and prepare for a scenic ride. The rice terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage site, and trust me, those Instagram photos will be worth the early wake-up call.
- 6:00 AM: Depart from your accommodation in Ubud.
- 7:30 AM: Arrive at Jatiluwih. Spend about an hour walking through the terraces. Feel free to take a million photos. No one is judging you.
- 8:30 AM: Head to a local warung for breakfast. Try Nasi Goreng or Pisang Goreng for a local treat.
Cultural immersion: Visit a Balinese temple
After your breakfast feast, it’s time to dive into Balinese culture. Next stop: the Tirta Empul Temple in Tampaksiring. This beautiful water temple is about a 30-minute drive from Jatiluwih and is famous for its holy spring water.
- 9:30 AM: Arrive at Tirta Empul Temple. Take your time exploring the vibrant grounds.
- 10:00 AM: Participate in a purification ritual if you’re feeling adventurous. Just remember to bring a sarong. The last thing you want is to be that tourist without proper attire.
- 11:30 AM: Snap some photos and soak in the serenity of the temple.
Afternoon: Cooking class or artisan markets
By now, you’ve absorbed some culture and probably built up an appetite again. You have two great options for the afternoon: a cooking class or a visit to Ubud’s artisan markets. If you choose the cooking class, you’ll learn how to whip up some traditional Balinese dishes. If shopping is more your jam, then the markets will make your heart sing.
Option 1: Cooking class
- 12:30 PM: Head to a local cooking school, like Paon Bali Cooking Class.
- 1:00 PM: Start your cooking class. Expect to learn how to make dishes like Sate Lilit and Rendang.
- 3:00 PM: Enjoy the fruits of your labor. Pat yourself on the back for not burning anything.
Option 2: Artisan markets
- 12:30 PM: Drive to Ubud Market, about 30 minutes from Tirta Empul.
- 1:00 PM: Browse through stalls filled with handcrafted goods. Look for souvenirs or something to make your friends back home jealous.
- 3:00 PM: Stop for a quick lunch at Bubur Ayam, a popular local dish.
Evening: Beach club or beachfront dinner
As the sun begins to set, it’s time to unwind and enjoy the stunning views Bali is famous for. You have two options: relax at a trendy beach club or indulge in a beachfront dinner.
Option 1: Beach club
- 4:00 PM: Head to Finns Beach Club in Canggu, about an hour’s drive from Ubud.
- 5:00 PM: Grab a cocktail and kick back on a sunbed. You’ve earned it after a day of exploration.
- 6:30 PM: Watch the sunset with your new favorite drink in hand. Just don’t drop it in the sand.
Option 2: Beachfront dinner
- 4:00 PM: Drive to Jimbaran Bay, roughly a 1-hour drive from Ubud.
- 5:00 PM: Settle into a beachfront restaurant. Order fresh seafood and enjoy the sound of waves.
- 6:30 PM: Savor your meal as the sun sinks below the horizon. It’s the perfect way to end your day.
With your day winding down, you’ll realize how much you’ve packed into just 24 hours in Bali. From rice terraces to temples, cooking classes, and relaxing beach vibes, it’s the perfect mix of adventure and chill. So, are you ready to start planning your next trip back? After all, one day just isn’t enough to fully appreciate the magic of Bali. Go on, book those tickets. Your unforgettable day awaits!
