The Perfect 7-Day Bali Itinerary: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors
Bali, often referred to as the Island of the Gods, is a destination that offers stunning beaches, lush jungles, sacred temples, vibrant nightlife, and thrilling outdoor adventures. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to experience more of its magic, a 7-day itinerary will allow you to see the best of Bali, balancing relaxation, culture, and adventure.
This 7-day itinerary covers Bali’s most iconic spots, including Seminyak, Uluwatu, Ubud, and Nusa Penida, while ensuring there’s plenty of time to soak in the beauty, enjoy the food, and relax at some of Bali’s top resorts.
For the best experience, consider booking a luxury or boutique hotel near each major location to fully immerse yourself in the authentic Balinese experience. Below, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of the best hotels to complement your stay.
Day 1-2: South Bali – Beaches, Clifftop Temples & Sunsets
📍 Base yourself in Seminyak or Uluwatu
Your journey starts in South Bali, home to some of the island’s most beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re looking to surf, sip cocktails at a beachfront bar, or visit sacred temples, these first two days will introduce you to the best of South Bali.
Day 1: Seminyak – Beach Clubs & Shopping
Seminyak is one of Bali’s trendiest beach destinations, known for its long sandy beach, stylish beach clubs, and boutique shopping. Spend your first day:
✔ Relaxing at Seminyak Beach – A great spot for sunbathing, watching surfers, or taking a beach stroll.
✔ Exploring Eat Street (Jalan Kayu Aya) – This famous strip is filled with boutique stores, artisan markets, and trendy cafés.
✔ Unwinding at a Beach Club – Sunset at Potato Head Beach Club or Ku De Ta is an absolute must. Enjoy a signature cocktail while overlooking the ocean.
✔ Fine dining or casual warung experience – Seminyak has everything from Michelin-rated restaurants to local Balinese warungs. Try Merah Putih for modern Indonesian cuisine or Naughty Nuri’s for legendary BBQ ribs.
🏨 Where to Stay in Seminyak
📌 The Legian Bali – A 5-star beachfront resort offering private villas, infinity pools, and top-tier service.
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📌 Alila Seminyak – A sustainability-focused beachfront resort featuring stunning ocean views, spa treatments, and direct beach access.
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Day 2: Uluwatu – Clifftop Views & Sacred Temples
On your second day, head south to Uluwatu, known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, legendary surf breaks, and breathtaking temples.
✔ Visit Padang Padang Beach – A hidden beach with crystal-clear water and soft white sand, famous from the movie Eat, Pray, Love.
✔ Explore Uluwatu Temple – Perched on a majestic clifftop, this temple offers breathtaking sunset views.
✔ Watch the Kecak Fire Dance – A mesmerizing Balinese dance performance at Uluwatu Temple during sunset.
✔ Enjoy a seafood dinner in Jimbaran – End your day with a fresh seafood feast right on the beach at Jimbaran Bay.
🏨 Where to Stay in Uluwatu
📌 Alila Villas Uluwatu – A luxury clifftop retreat offering private pool villas with panoramic ocean views.
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📌 Six Senses Uluwatu – A wellness-focused 5-star resort with cliffside infinity pools, holistic spa treatments, and world-class dining.
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Day 3-4: Ubud – Culture, Rice Terraces & Waterfalls
📍 Stay in Ubud – Bali’s cultural heart
After exploring the coastline, it’s time to head to Ubud, where you’ll be surrounded by lush rice paddies, ancient temples, and jungle retreats.
Day 3: Ubud Exploration
✔ Tegalalang Rice Terraces – Walk through the famous UNESCO-listed rice terraces and try the Bali Swing experience.
✔ Sacred Monkey Forest – A lush sanctuary home to hundreds of playful long-tailed macaques.
✔ Ubud Palace & Traditional Market – Explore Balinese royal heritage and shop for local crafts.
✔ Balinese Cooking Class – Learn how to make authentic Balinese dishes at a local farm.
🏨 Where to Stay in Ubud
📌 The Kayon Jungle Resort – A secluded luxury retreat featuring infinity pools overlooking the lush valley.
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📌 Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan – A stunning riverside resort offering luxurious villas, a world-class spa, and yoga sessions by the river.
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Day 4: Ubud’s Waterfalls & Relaxation
✔ Visit Tibumana & Kanto Lampo Waterfalls – Beautiful, easily accessible waterfalls perfect for a morning swim.
✔ Tirta Empul Temple – Participate in a spiritual purification ritual at this sacred water temple.
✔ Spa & Wellness Retreat – Enjoy a Balinese massage or jungle spa experience before heading back to your resort.
Day 5-6: Nusa Penida – Island Adventure
📍 Take a boat to Nusa Penida for 2 days of exploring hidden beaches and coastal cliffs.
✔ Visit Kelingking Beach (T-Rex Cliff) – One of Bali’s most famous viewpoints with turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs.
✔ Angel’s Billabong & Broken Beach – Stunning natural rock formations with a beautiful lagoon for swimming.
✔ Snorkeling at Manta Point – A chance to swim alongside giant manta rays.
🏨 Where to Stay in Nusa Penida
📌 Adiwana Warnakali Resort – A boutique oceanfront resort with dive experiences and stunning cliffside rooms.
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Day 7: Sanur – Relax Before Departure
📍 Stay near the airport for convenience.
Spend your final day at Sanur Beach, known for its relaxing vibe and stunning sunrise views. If time permits, visit a local spa or take a final Balinese cooking class before heading to the airport.
🏨 Where to Stay in Sanur
📌 Hyatt Regency Bali – A beachfront resort with lush gardens and easy airport access.
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A 7-day Bali itinerary covers the best of the island, from beaches and temples to waterfalls and island adventures. If you want to explore more, check out our 10-day and 14-day itineraries for an extended Bali experience!
