What to Do in Bali in 2 Days
A Mini-Guide for Short Stays in Bali
This mini-guide for short stays in Bali is your quick reference for planning out a 2-day trip on the island. After touching down at the airport, consider your 1st day out as focusing on the island’s southern coast, home to Bali’s famous beaches. You’ll also discover most of the modern shopping, dining, and nightlife in this area.
On day 2, head up to the highlands to explore a different side of Bali. With its mix of stunning nature, tradition, and culture, Ubud is a rich central hub to explore. Admire centuries-old temples and palaces alongside modern art galleries, rice terraces, and lush valleys. Check out the options below and start planning your short trip to Bali.
1. Day 1
Enjoying the coast and visiting Bali’s best temples
Good for: Adventure, Families
Bali is famous for its pristine beaches, so your first day could be spent sunbathing or surfing at Kuta’s popular coastline, conveniently close to Ngurah Rai International Airport. Those new to surfing can even take lessons right on the beach. Located 22 miles northwest of Kuta, Echo Beach in Canggu is another scenic surfing spot to enjoy.
Besides sand and surf, Bali showcases incredible, majestic temples. The picturesque Uluwatu Temple flanks a forest inhabited by gray long-tailed macaques, while Tanah Lot Temple is popular for its gorgeous offshore setting and sunset backdrops. The Garuda Wisnu Kencana cultural park is also a great place to explore with its massive monument of the Hindu god Vishnu riding the mythic Garuda bird. Read more
2. Evening 1
Catching a Bali sunset and partying the night away
Good for: Couples, Nightlife
Cool off with a refreshing drink and dig your feet into the sand, or end your day with the most memorable sunset dining experience at Kedonganan or Jimbaran. If Uluwatu Temple is part of your daytime itinerary, you could stay and watch the sunset “Kecak” fire dance at the nearby clifftop amphitheater.
If you prefer a night at a bar, head for the incredible Rock Bar at AYANA Resort and Spa to enjoy cocktails and tapas with views of the Indian Ocean. Or party the night away at Bali’s liveliest nightlife areas, Legian and Seminyak, which are packed with vibrant nightclubs, bars, and rooftop lounges to guarantee an exciting evening. Read more
3. Day 2
Exploring scenic mountains and hunting for bargains
Good for: Adventure, Shoppers
On your second day, it’s worth traveling inwards to discover the beautiful highlands. A must-visit is Ubud, where you can enjoy white-water rafting or hike across scenic mountain ridges and terraced rice fields. Around 9 miles north is Tirta Empul Temple, featuring pools fed by natural springs. The Gunung Kawi Temple has towering stone shrines carved into the mountainside, while the Padangtegal sanctuary is not only home to hordes of macaques but also hidden temples.
After the sightseeing, it’s time to shop for souvenirs. Ubud’s Art Market is a local landmark, with stalls selling everything from daily necessities to handicrafts. There’s also the art markets of Sukawati and Guwang, where you can put your bargaining skills to the test. Read more
4. Evening 2
Dinner with a touch of arts and culture
Good for: Couples, Food, Luxury
End your last night in Bali with one of many great dining experiences available in Ubud. A large number of restaurants and cultural spots in Bali have open stages showcasing traditional Balinese dances and gamelan orchestras.
The Laka Leke restaurant serves a festive Balinese dinner accompanied by regular cultural performances, while the Ubud Royal Palace hosts traditional dance performances featuring a live gamelan orchestra from 7.30 pm. If you’re after a luxurious dining experience, book a table at an award-winning restaurant such as Mozaic, Locavore NXT, or CasCades at The Viceroy Bali. Read more
This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.