A Guide to Ubud: Eat, Pray, Love

It’s almost impossible to think about Ubud, Bali  without making comparisons to the hit movie and best-selling novel. For better or worse, Bali’s charm and culture that was depicted in Eat, Pray, Love draws thousands of tourists to Ubud every year.

If you want to visit the cultural epicentre of Bali, we’ve put together a guide of must-see sights and activities in Ubud, from visiting temples and taking cooking classes to explore local markets and enjoying traditional Balinese dances. Surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, Ubud is the perfect place to escape city life and find inner peace. With a vibrant food scene and endless opportunities for adventure, Ubud truly has something for everyone. It’s the island’s best location for delicious cuisine made with fresh ingredients from the surrounding farms.

So if you’re ready for some self-reflection and relaxation and to experience a new culture firsthand, don’t hesitate any longer. Talk to our team at Bali Res Centre to plan your trip to Ubud now. We’ll make sure all your needs are catered for so that you can have an unforgettable holiday experience.

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“Eat”

Ubud is a food lover’s paradise, with a vibrant and exciting food scene that offers everything from traditional Balinese dishes to modern interpretations. Discover local cuisine and dishes like nasi goreng, nasi campur, babi guling, or bebek betutu, or try something unique like rujak bulung. You can find any cuisine you desire in various restaurants, from vegan options to fine dining. 

Bali’s communal eating and hospitality tradition remains strong in Ubud, with meals often shared by several people at once. Take a food tour to learn more about the local food culture and discover the best spots to try the most delicious dishes.

Cooking classes are also widely available throughout Ubud, allowing visitors to learn how to make their favourite dishes from experienced chefs. You’ll be taught everything from preparing ingredients to presentation techniques, and then you’ll enjoy the fruits of your labour with a wonderful meal. Whether you’re a beginner or already quite skilled in the kitchen, these classes offer something for everyone. For a complete overview of the best places to eat read our guides for the best Ubud cafes and the best restaurants in Ubud.

best restaurants in ubud

“Pray”

Ubud is a spiritual mecca, allowing visitors to explore some of Bali’s most renowned temples and sites. The most prominent are the Tirta Empul Temple, Taman Pule Mas, and Goa Gajah Temple complex. All offer unique insights into Balinese religious customs and peace and tranquillity for those seeking inner peace.

When visiting these religious sites, it is important to remember their cultural significance in Balinese society: religion plays an integral role in daily life here. Participating in ceremonies or rituals can give visitors insight into what makes this region special. It also provides a great opportunity for solo travel, as worshippers may join together during prayers regardless of their individual beliefs.

Overall, there’s something magical about exploring Ubud’s many temples and spiritual sites – whatever brings you there, expect an experience unlike any other. A sense of serenity awaits all who visit these sacred places, making each journey one that offers true peace of mind.

ubud spiritual trip

“Love”

Have you ever dreamt of being whisked away to a romantic paradise? Ubud is the place for you. With abundant mid-range spa treatments, nature walks, and romantic activities, this Balinese town has become the perfect honeymoon destination for couples worldwide. But solo travellers or groups of friends can also enjoy Ubud’s romantic atmosphere.

Take an evening stroll through one of Ubud’s many rice fields – some say it’s even more beautiful at night with all the stars in sight! Or why not choose from one of Ubud’s many spas, where you can indulge in a luxurious treatment to relax your mind and body? Whether it’s pampering yourself after a long day exploring or celebrating something special with your partner – there’s no shortage of options here.

Ubud is full of surprises, too; join a meditation or yoga session as the sun rises above Bukit Campuhan ridge walk – nothing beats starting your day feeling centred and energised! And if you’re looking for something extra special, check out some of the local galleries or art studios; they offer unique experiences like pottery classes or batik painting lessons that might just be what you need to reignite your creative spark.

No matter who you travel with, rest assured that Ubud will provide plenty of opportunities for lovebirds (or singles!) alike to create unforgettable memories. So come and explore this magical Indonesian town – we promise it won’t disappoint!

ubud trip for couple

Other Must-See Sights And Activities

Ubud is home to many interesting sights and activities. For art lovers, there’s the Neka Art Museum. Featuring works from renowned Indonesian painters like Affandi and Le Mayeur, this museum offers a chance for visitors to appreciate the beauty of traditional Balinese art in all its forms.

Those looking for more traditional experiences should visit Ubud Market. Here you’ll find an array of souvenirs, including handicrafts, jewellery, clothing, and Balinese spices. Remember to haggle, it’s a customary tradition, and the locals will also enjoy the banter. Many street food vendors offer delicious local dishes tantalising your taste buds.

For nature lovers, Ubud has plenty to offer too. The nearby UNESCO world heritage site Tegallalang Rice Terraces provides stunning views of rice paddies lined with coconut trees accompanied by lush greenery. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to take beautiful photos or wander around in peaceful surroundings.

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try out one of the adventure tours? From ATV rides through muddy tracks to white water rafting down some of Bali’s wildest rivers – there’s something here for everyone looking for an adrenaline rush!

Where To Stay In Ubud

Now that you know the must-see sights and activities Ubud has to offer, it’s time to talk about where you should stay. When deciding on accommodation in Ubud, there are a few factors: location, budget, amenities, and type of room or villa. 

Ubud offers plenty of options for finding an abode for yourself. The central Ubud area is known for being more expensive than other parts due to its proximity to all the attractions. But if you’re looking for something quieter and cheaper, head out into the villages surrounding Ubud, such as Penestanan or Tegallalang – both popular among nature lovers and yoga practitioners alike.

If money isn’t an issue, why not spoil yourself with a luxurious stay? Some incredible high-end resorts in town offer top-notch hospitality services and facilities like private pools and spas. On the flip side, though, these can dent your wallet, so research beforehand.

For those who fall somewhere between luxury seekers and budget travellers, fortunately, there are several mid-range hotels available too, which provide good value for money. These usually come with comfortable rooms along with basic amenities such as swimming pools or breakfast buffets included in their rates. So whether you’re after a lavish retreat or want something simple yet affordable – there’s something here for everyone.

Selecting the right place to stay during your visit will ensure your trip goes off without a hitch. Talk to our reservations team and take some time to visit Ubud and explore this area has to offer before making any decisions.

couple at bali bamboo luxury villa 2023 11 27 05 14 08 utc

How To Get Around In Ubud

Getting around Ubud can be a fun experience, but you should consider a few different transportation options before deciding on the best way to explore this area. 

A few local taxi companies are in the area, and they are all relatively inexpensive. Taxis are a great option for those who want to explore the area but want to avoid navigating unfamiliar roads.

Gojek or Grab are two rideshare apps where you can book a driver for a car or a shared ride on a motorbike. They are convenient and used almost everywhere in Bali. Some areas in Ubud do not allow this, and you are encouraged to only use local transportation and taxis. You can ask at the front desk of your hotel or wherever you are staying if booking a driver online is permissible. 

online driver giving helmet to passanger 2023 11 27 05 11 57 utc

Private drivers are a great option for those looking for a safe and reliable way to get around Ubud. Experienced and knowledgeable, private drivers can take you to any desired destination. Private drivers are also great for larger groups, as they can accommodate multiple passengers. We recommend private drivers, especially when you want to do day trips to Ubud. Our drivers are always dependable, knowledgeable and punctual. A private driver is one of the most reliable ways to get around Ubud and its surrounding areas. 

Another popular option for getting around Ubud is renting a scooter or motorbike. Scooters are a great way to explore the area; they are fast, convenient, and relatively cheap. However, it is important to note that due to the nature of scooters, they can be dangerous, so it is important to wear a helmet and be extra careful when driving. Do not use this option if you are not an experienced driver on a motorbike. 

Bicycles are a great option for those who want to explore the area with more of an environmentally friendly approach. Bicycles can be rented from several locations in Ubud and are a great way to get around without spending too much money.

book your ubud trip or tour with finns team

Book your Ubud trip or tour

Ubud is truly a place of wonder and beauty. With its vibrant food scene, spiritual sites, romantic atmosphere and endless opportunities for exploration, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this magical town. Whether you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life or planning a romantic getaway with your partner, Ubud will surely leave you feeling blissful and enchanted by its captivating charm.

From sampling delicious local dishes to exploring Balinese temples, shopping at bustling markets or discovering hidden treasures in the surrounding jungle – immerse yourself in all that Ubud has to offer and make lasting memories during your stay. And when it comes time to rest after an action-packed day, you can choose from myriad accommodation options ranging from budget hotels to luxury villas. So no matter what type of traveller you are, you’ll find somewhere perfect.

Talk to our team at Bali Res Centre for more information. Have a wonderful time in Ubud!

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