So, you’ve decided to spend three glorious days in Bali, and you’re wondering how to squeeze every ounce of fun out of your time on this island paradise. Worry not, for this itinerary is tailor-made for you, whether you’re a beach bum, a culture vulture, or just someone who enjoys eating their body weight in local food. Here’s how to make those three days count.
Day one: Ubud adventures
Welcome to Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali and the place where you can pretend to be zen while actually just stressing about how much you want to buy at the markets. Start your day early to avoid the heat and crowds. After all, who wants to fight through throngs of tourists before their morning coffee?
- Morning: Arrive in Ubud and grab breakfast at Clear Café. They have smoothie bowls that look like rainbows on a plate. Trust me, your Instagram needs this.
- Mid-morning: Head to the Ubud Monkey Forest. Yes, you’ll see monkeys. Yes, they will try to steal your belongings. Just keep your sunglasses on your face and your snacks out of reach. Spend about an hour here.
- Afternoon: Visit the Ubud Art Market. You’ll find everything from handmade crafts to clothing. Bargaining is a must, so channel your inner haggler and don’t be afraid to walk away if the price isn’t right.
- Lunch: Grab a bite at Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka. Their suckling pig is legendary. I mean, who doesn’t want to eat something that has a legend?
- Post-lunch: Stroll through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces. It’s not just for the photos; you’ll feel like you’re in a postcard. Walk around for about an hour and a half.
- Evening: Have dinner at The Lotus Cafe, where you can enjoy a meal with a view of a tranquil lotus pond. Afterward, take a stroll to the Pura Taman Saraswati Temple for a bit of evening magic.
Day two: Coastal treats in Seminyak
Day two is all about sun, sand, and shopping. Seminyak is your destination, where luxury meets laid-back vibes. Put on your sunscreen; you don’t want to turn into a lobster.
- Morning: Start your day at Revolver Espresso for some of the best coffee you’ll ever taste. Then, hit the beach at Seminyak Beach for some sunbathing and relaxation. Don’t forget your towel and a good book.
- Mid-morning: Try your hand at surfing. Rent a board from a local shop and catch some waves. Pro tip: falling off is totally part of the experience. Expect to spend around two hours here.
- Lunch: Enjoy a lively meal at La Plancha. This beach bar is colorful and fun, serving up tapas and cold drinks. Perfect fuel for your shopping spree.
- Afternoon: Shop till you drop at Seminyak Village and neighboring boutiques. You’ll find everything from designer brands to unique local items. Don’t forget to negotiate like you mean it!
- Evening: Head to Potato Head Beach Club for sunset. Grab a cocktail, lounge on a daybed, and watch the sun dip below the horizon. It’s as close to paradise as you’ll get without becoming a permanent resident.
- Dinner: For dinner, stop by Merah Putih. The ambiance is stunning, and the food is even better. You’ll be dreaming about their dishes long after you leave.
Day three: Tranquility in Uluwatu
On your final day, it’s time to slow down and soak in the beauty of Uluwatu. This is where you get to enjoy stunning beaches and a cultural performance that will leave you in awe. Sounds like a plan, right?
- Morning: After breakfast at The Cashew Tree, head to Padang Padang Beach. It’s a small but beautiful beach with clear waters. Spend a couple of hours soaking up the sun and swimming.
- Midday: Visit the Uluwatu Temple. This clifftop temple offers some breathtaking views. Just be sure to keep an eye on your belongings; those monkeys are sneaky.
- Lunch: Enjoy a meal at Single Fin, which overlooks the ocean. You can’t beat that view while you enjoy a relaxed lunch.
- Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Dreamland Beach. This spot is less crowded, perfect for a peaceful escape. Bring your towel and enjoy the waves.
- Evening: Return to Uluwatu Temple to catch the traditional Kecak dance performance. Arrive early to snag a good seat and enjoy the sunset backdrop while you watch the show.
- Dinner: Wrap up your trip with dinner at Café Organic. Their menu is a healthy delight, and you deserve it after three days of indulgence.
Three days in Bali can feel like a whirlwind, but you’ll leave with memories that last a lifetime. You might even find yourself dreaming about your next visit before you’ve even left the airport. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready for an adventure that will have you longing for more. Bali, you’ve been fabulous!
