Exploring Bali offers an incredible mix of experiences, from lush jungles and ancient temples to stunning beaches and vibrant markets. This 10-day Bali itinerary is perfect for first-timers who want to experience the best of the island and includes a visit to the breathtaking Nusa Penida. This guide will help you make the most of your time in Bali, ensuring you explore its diverse landscapes and rich culture without feeling rushed.

Days 1-2: Discovering Ubud

Day 1: Central Ubud

Explore the Heart of Bali

• Monkey Forest Sanctuary: Start your adventure at the Ubud Monkey Forest, where you can get up close with the friendly Balinese macaques. It’s a fun and unique experience that sets the tone for your Bali journey.
• Ubud Market: A short walk from the Monkey Forest, the Ubud Market is the place to shop for local handicrafts. You’ll find everything from wood carvings to handmade jewelry. Don’t forget to haggle for the best price!
• Ubud Palace and Saraswati Temple: End your day with a visit to the Ubud Palace and the nearby Saraswati Temple. Both sites offer beautiful architecture and serene surroundings, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Day 2: Temples and Terraces

Immerse Yourself in Bali’s Culture

• Tegalalang Rice Terraces: Just a short drive from Ubud, these famous rice terraces are a must-see. Walk through the terraces and enjoy the lush, green scenery.
• Gunung Kawi Sebatu Water Temple: A hidden gem, this temple offers tranquility away from the crowds. Explore its koi ponds, gardens, and ancient courtyards.
• Tirta Empul Temple: This is one of Bali’s most significant temples, where locals and tourists alike come to bathe in its sacred waters. Even if you don’t take a dip, the temple’s architecture and setting are worth the visit.
• Gunung Kawi Temple: Explore ancient funeral shrines carved into the cliffs at this archaeological site, providing a fascinating glimpse into Bali’s history.
• Goa Gajah Temple: If you’re still up for more, visit Goa Gajah, known for its unique cave entrance. The carvings here are some of the most intricate on the island.

Days 3-4: Waterfall Adventures and Bedugul Day Trip

Day 3: Waterfalls of Bangli

Chase Bali’s Best Waterfalls

• Goa Giri Campuhan Waterfall: Begin your waterfall adventure with this hidden gem, accessible through a couple of caves, offering a secluded spot for nature lovers.
• Kuning Waterfall: Hike down to this jungle waterfall and take a refreshing dip in its natural pools. The trek is steep, but the reward is worth it.
• Tibumana Waterfall: Popular among Instagrammers, Tibumana is a picturesque spot. Despite its growing fame, it’s still a peaceful place to relax.
• Taman Sari Waterfall: Just a short walk from Tibumana, this two-step waterfall is less crowded, offering a more intimate experience.
• Goa Rang Reng Waterfall: End your waterfall tour at Goa Rang Reng, where you can enjoy a natural slip-and-slide experience on its sloped cascade.

Day 4: Day Trip to Bedugul

Explore the Northern Highlands

• Sekumpul Waterfall: One of Bali’s most impressive waterfalls, Sekumpul is surrounded by dense jungle and offers epic views. It’s a bit of a hike to reach, but the scenery makes it a highlight of any Bali trip.
• Fiji Waterfall: A short walk from Sekumpul, this triple waterfall is an added bonus, making the trek even more rewarding.
• Ulun Danu Bratan Temple: This iconic temple on Lake Bratan is not only a popular photo spot but also an important spiritual site. The surrounding volcanic crater adds to the mystical atmosphere.
• Bali Botanic Garden: Close to the lake, these gardens are perfect for a peaceful walk. Some of the ancient trees here are as fascinating as the temples.
• Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: Finish your day with a visit to Jatiluwih, where expansive rice terraces stretch as far as the eye can see. The trekking paths offer stunning views and a closer look at Bali’s agricultural traditions.

Days 5-6: Transition to Nusa Penida

Day 5: Ubud to Sanur

Exploring Along the Way

• Mas Wood Carving Village: On your way to Sanur, stop at Mas Village to see Balinese woodcarving at its finest. These intricately crafted pieces are a testament to Bali’s rich artistic heritage.
• Kemenuh Butterfly Park: A small but delightful stop, where you can hold an Atlas Moth, the largest in the world. The park also features other fascinating insects.
• Tegenungan Waterfall: While it’s one of the more touristy spots, Tegenungan is still worth a visit, especially if you’re looking for a place to grab lunch with a view.
• Bali Bird Park & Reptile Park: Home to over 1,000 birds and reptiles, this park is beautifully designed and offers a great way to learn about Bali’s wildlife. If birds aren’t your thing, consider visiting the nearby Batuan Temple instead.
• Transfer to Sanur: After a day of exploring, continue your journey to Sanur and check into your hotel. Rest up for the exciting island adventure ahead.

Day 6: West Nusa Penida

Island Escape Begins

• Transfer to Nusa Penida: Take a morning boat from Sanur to Nusa Penida. The speedboat ride takes about 45 minutes, delivering you to a more rugged, untouched side of Bali.
• Kelingking Beach: Start your exploration with a visit to the iconic Kelingking Beach. The cliffside view is one of Bali’s most photographed spots, and the challenging hike down to the beach is an adventure in itself.
• Paluang Cliff: Nearby Kelingking, this lesser-known viewpoint offers equally stunning vistas without the crowds. It’s a quick stop that adds great value to your day.
• Pererenan Cliff: Explore this secluded cliff spot, where a steep trail leads down to a natural pool, perfect for a refreshing dip.
• Banah Cliff Point: Another hidden gem, Banah Cliff offers breathtaking views of a doughnut-shaped rock formation and the surrounding cliffs.
• Tembeling Beach: End the day with a trek to Tembeling Beach, where you can relax in a natural pool and explore a sea cave with towering cliffs above.

Days 7-8: East Nusa Penida and Snorkeling Adventures

Day 7: East Nusa Penida

Beaches and Beyond

• Diamond Beach: Begin your day at Diamond Beach, where the steep stairs lead you down to one of the most beautiful beaches you’ll ever see. The white sand and turquoise waters are postcard-perfect.
• Atuh Beach: Just a short walk from Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach is less famous but equally inviting. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy some local food.
• Rumah Pohon Treehouse: Visit these iconic treehouses overlooking Diamond Beach. The views are incredible, and you can even spend the night in one if you wish.
• Teletubbies Hill: Named after its resemblance to the Teletubby hills, this spot is particularly lush and green after the rainy season, offering a great photo opportunity.
• Pura Goa Giri Putri Cave Temple: Explore this Hindu temple inside a massive cave. The entrance is a narrow crawl space, but the interior is surprisingly spacious and spiritually significant.

Day 8: Snorkeling and West Penida

Underwater Wonders

• Snorkeling Tour: Start your day with a snorkeling tour on the west side of Nusa Penida. You might spot manta rays, turtles, and vibrant coral reefs. The underwater scenery here is some of the best in Bali.
• Angel’s Billabong: Back on land, visit this natural infinity pool where you can take a dip during low tide. Be cautious of the waves, as they can get quite strong.
• Broken Beach: A natural wonder where the ocean has carved out a large hole in the coastline, creating a stunning circular bay. It’s a great spot for photography and sometimes you can spot manta rays from above.
• Crystal Bay: End your Nusa Penida adventure at Crystal Bay, a great place to relax on the beach and watch the sunset. With food and drink shacks nearby, it’s the perfect spot to unwind before heading back to Bali.
• Transfer Back to Bali: Catch an evening boat back to Sanur and make your way to the Uluwatu area, where you’ll stay for the final leg of your Bali trip.

Days 9-10: Relaxing in Uluwatu

Day 9: Exploring Uluwatu’s Beaches

Sun, Sand, and Surf

• Balangan Beach: Start your day at Balangan Beach, known for its soft white sand and beautiful views from the cliff above. It’s a quiet spot, perfect for soaking up the sun.
• Padang Padang Beach: Hidden at the bottom of a cliff, this beach is popular for surfing and has a lively atmosphere. Get there early to beat the crowds and enjoy the morning surf.
• Suluban Beach: This beach is tucked away in a cave, adding an adventurous twist to your beach day. The cliffside restaurant above offers stunning views and a great place to grab a drink.
• Uluwatu Temple: Finish the day with a visit to Uluwatu Temple, perched on the edge of a cliff. It’s one of the most famous spots in Bali to watch the sunset. Just be wary of the cheeky monkeys that might try to snatch your belongings!

Day 10: Final Day in Uluwatu

Cliffs and Caves

• Karang Boma Cliff: Start your last day with a visit to this dramatic cliff, where you’ll find unobstructed views of the ocean waves crashing below. It’s a quick stop but offers one of the most breathtaking views on the island.
• Nunggalan Beach: After a steep hike, you’ll reach Nunggalan Beach, a serene spot often devoid of tourists. The shipwreck here makes for an interesting photo opportunity.
• Green Bowl Beach: Another beach that requires a hike down steep stairs, Green Bowl is known for its large caves and beautiful sunset views. It’s a peaceful spot to relax before heading back up the cliffs.
• Oneeighty Cliff Pool: End your Bali adventure at Oneeighty, a luxury club with a glass-bottom pool extending over a cliff. Spend your final hours in Bali soaking up the sun and enjoying a refreshing swim with unbeatable views.

Best Time to Visit Bali

The best time to visit Bali largely depends on your desire. The rainy season from November to April offers fewer crowds, while the dry season from May to August brings cooler temperatures and more visitors. March to May, right after the rainy season, is ideal for photographers, as the landscape is lush and green.

Exploring Bali through this 10-day itinerary provides a well-rounded experience of the island’s culture, nature, and adventure. Each day is packed with highlights, ensuring you see the best of what Bali offers without feeling rushed. For more travel inspiration, check out Top Cultural Festivals Around the World. Happy travels!