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Highlights and appeal
What is special about Bali
Explore the island's contrasts and decide whether its landscapes, traditions and varied settings suit the way you like to travel.
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Bali travel guide
Bali: a guide to planning your trip
Learn how to combine scenery, culture, food and downtime while choosing the parts of Bali that best suit your trip.
Decide how you want to experience Bali
Bali is an island of distinct areas, so it should not be planned as though it were a single city. Your experience will depend on where you stay, how much time you have and whether you prioritise culture, nature, the coast, food or relaxation. This guide brings together the key decisions for choosing when to go, arranging transport, setting a budget and building a realistic itinerary.
- Compare the island's different areas before booking accommodation.
- Match your journeys and itinerary to the time you have available.
- Balance activities, food and downtime without overcrowding each day.
Private Balinese cooking class at Putu's home in Ubud
Prepare two or three Balinese dishes with Putu during a private, hands-on cooking class. As you cook, you will learn about the spices and ingredients used in her family recipes, then sit down to enjoy the meal with your host and…
Ten decisions for planning a Bali trip
Explore each part of the planning process to shape a stay around your interests, budget and available time.
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When to go
Best time to visit Bali
Compare different times of year and choose when to travel based on your preferred activities and style of stay.
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Areas and accommodation
Where to stay in Bali
Understand the island's main areas and choose a base that works for your plans, journeys and preferred pace.
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Activities
Things to do in Bali
Consider cultural, natural, culinary and relaxing activities to create a balanced selection for your stay.
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Getting around
How to get around Bali
Plan journeys between different areas with the island's distances, pace and your mobility needs in mind.
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Travel budget
How much money do I need for Bali
Break down accommodation, transport, food and activity costs to make clearer travel decisions.
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Food
Where to eat in Bali
Plan your food choices around the areas you visit and make local cooking a meaningful part of the trip.
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Safety
Is Bali safe
Review practical precautions for travelling around, looking after your belongings and approaching your stay sensibly.
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Practical advice
Mistakes to avoid in Bali
Anticipate common planning mistakes that can affect travel times, spending or the way you divide your days.
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Itinerary
Bali itinerary
Arrange areas and activities into a realistic route while avoiding unnecessary journeys or accommodation changes.
View guide →Experiences in Bali
Choose experiences that complement your route and fit the areas, time and pace you have planned.
Plan from where you are
Plan my dayWhat can you do in Bali today?
Build an itinerary around your location, local time, weather and real places, or discover several options that fit right now.