Bali in 3 Days (2025): Best Time, Costs, Must-Do Sights, and Where to Stay

Bali is an island that captures the heart, blending profound culture with breathtaking natural beauty. It's a place where ancient temples stand against dramatic ocean backdrops, lush rice terraces cascade down hillsides, and vibrant cafés buzz with energy. Whether you're a family seeking gentle beaches, a couple looking for a scenic escape, or a solo traveler on a cultural quest, Bali delivers. Its flexible seasons mean there's never a truly bad time to visit—the dry season offers endless sunshine for outdoor adventures, while the rainy season brings lush landscapes and incredible value.

Ready to explore it all in just three days? Let's dive in.

Quick Overview

Best time: April–October (dry season; sunny, less rain).

Cheapest: November–March (rainy; great for deals).

3-day plan: Ubud & rice terraces → Uluwatu + Bukit beaches → Nusa Penida day trip (or Seminyak/Canggu).

Stay: Ubud for culture; Seminyak for dining/shopping; Canggu for surf/cafés; Uluwatu for cliff/beach stays; Sanur/Legian for value.

Get around: Grab/Gojek, Bluebird taxis, private driver; scooters only if licensed/experienced.

Temple dress code: sarong + covered shoulders; don’t step on canang sari (street offerings).

Best Time to Go (And How to Plan Around Rain)

Choosing when to visit can shape your trip, but Bali’s tropical climate is welcoming year-round.

1. Dry Season (April–October): This is peak Bali. Expect sunny skies, low humidity, and minimal rain, making it perfect for beach days, hiking, and exploring. The peak of the peak is July and August, so be sure to book flights and accommodation well in advance.
2. Rainy Season (November–March): Don't let the name fool you. Rain usually comes in short, heavy bursts in the afternoon, leaving mornings clear for sightseeing. This season offers lower prices, fewer crowds, and incredibly green, lush scenery.
3. Shoulder Season (April–June & September): This is the sweet spot. You get the great weather of the dry season combined with the better value and smaller crowds of the off-season.

Pro Tip: If visiting during the rainy months, plan your outdoor activities like visiting temples and waterfalls for the morning. Save spa treatments, café hopping, or beach clubs for the afternoons when showers are more likely.

The Perfect 3-Day Bali Itinerary

This itinerary packs in the highlights, from the cultural heart of Ubud to the stunning cliffs of Uluwatu.

Day 1 – Ubud: Culture, Terraces & Waterfalls

Immerse yourself in the spiritual and cultural core of Bali.

1. Morning: Start early at the Tegallalang Rice Terraces to catch the magical morning light and beat the crowds.
2. Midday: Visit a sacred temple. Choose between Tirta Empul, where you can witness a holy spring purification ritual, or Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), known for its intricate stone carvings.
3. Afternoon: Cool off at a waterfall. Tegenungan Waterfall is powerful and impressive, while Tibumana Waterfall offers a more serene, swimmable pool.
4. Evening: Take a gentle sunset stroll along the Campuhan Ridge Walk. For a dose of culture, consider watching a traditional Legong dance performance at the Ubud Palace.

Day 2 – Uluwatu & the Bukit Peninsula

Head south for dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and one of Bali’s most iconic sunsets.

1. Morning: Pick your perfect beach on the Bukit Peninsula. Padang Padang is a famous cove, Melasti Beach has stunning white sand and clear water, and Thomas Beach is a quieter hidden gem.
2. Afternoon: Explore the majestic Uluwatu Temple, perched on a towering cliff 70 meters above the Indian Ocean. Walk along the cliffside path, but watch out for the cheeky resident monkeys!
3. Sunset: Don't miss the famous Kecak fire dance, performed with the setting sun as a breathtaking backdrop.
4. Evening: Enjoy dinner with incredible ocean views at one of the many restaurants in the Bingin or Uluwatu area. If you have time, you can also make an optional stop at the massive GWK Cultural Park.

Day 3 – Choose Your Adventure

Customize your last day based on your travel style.

1. Option A: Nusa Penida Day Trip: For the adventurous. Take a fast boat from Sanur to the rugged island of Nusa Penida. A pre-booked tour will take you to iconic viewpoints like Kelingking Beach (the "T-Rex"), Broken Beach, and Angel’s Billabong. End the day by snorkeling with majestic manta rays at Manta Bay (if conditions permit).
2. Option B: Seminyak/Canggu Vibe: For the chill traveler. Spend the day exploring the trendy neighborhoods of Seminyak and Canggu. Enjoy brunch at one of the famous cafés, shop at chic boutiques, and end your day with a sunset cocktail at a beachfront spot like La Plancha in Seminyak or Finns Beach Club in Canggu.

Alternative Ideas: For early risers, a guided sunrise hike up Mount Batur is unforgettable. Other great swaps include a day trip to the serene Sidemen Valley, watersports in Nusa Dua, or a trip north to see the iconic Ulun Danu Beratan Temple and Handara Gate.

Where to Stay (By Vibe & Budget)

1. Ubud: The best choice for culture, yoga, and jungle stays. Accommodation ranges from mid-range guesthouses to luxurious private villas.
2. Seminyak: Perfect for first-timers who love fine dining, boutique shopping, and stylish beach resorts.
3. Canggu: The hub for surfers, digital nomads, and café lovers. It’s filled with trendy villas but be prepared for traffic.
4. Uluwatu/Bukit: Ideal for those seeking clifftop resorts, quiet beaches, and the best sunset views on the island.
5. Sanur/Legian: Great value-friendly options. Sanur is known for its calm waters and family-friendly atmosphere, while Legian offers a balanced vibe close to the action.

Getting Around (Simple & Safe)

1. Ride-Hailing Apps: Grab and Gojek are the equivalent of Uber and are cheap and easy to use for short distances. Bluebird Taxis are also reliable and use a meter.
2. Private Driver: For a full day of sightseeing with multiple stops, hiring a private driver for a day rate is the most convenient and comfortable option.
3. Scooter: Renting a scooter offers ultimate freedom but is only recommended if you are licensed and experienced. Always wear a helmet, avoid riding at night or in the rain, and be mindful of potholes.

Costs & Money-Savers

1. Accommodation: Bali offers something for every budget, from cheap homestays ($15-30/night) to luxury villas ($200+/night).
2. Transport: Ride-hailing is very affordable. A private driver for a full day (8-10 hours) can range from $40-$60 USD.
3. Save Money By:
4. Traveling in the shoulder months (Apr-Jun, Sep).
5. Eating at local restaurants, known as warungs.
6. Withdrawing Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) from official bank ATMs to avoid poor exchange rates.

What to Book in Advance

1. A guided hike for the Mount Batur sunrise.
2. A combined fast boat and tour package for Nusa Penida.
3. Seats for the Kecak dance at Uluwatu, as sunset slots fill up quickly.
4. Tables at popular restaurants or beach clubs, especially for sunset viewing.

Short Packing List

1. Lightweight, breathable clothing.
2. A light rain jacket, especially during the rainy season.
3. A sarong and scarf or modest top for temple visits.
4. Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
5. Insect repellent.
6. A reusable water bottle.
7. A travel SIM/eSIM for connectivity.

Etiquette & Practicals

1. Temple Dress Code: Always cover your shoulders and knees. A sarong is mandatory and can often be rented at the entrance.
2. Canang Sari: These are the small, woven palm-leaf offerings you’ll see on streets and in front of temples. Be respectful and do not step on them.
3. Water: Do not drink tap water. Stick to bottled or filtered water.
4. Monkeys: Be vigilant at places like Uluwatu Temple. Secure your phone, sunglasses, and any loose items, as the monkeys are known to be snatchers.
5. Laws: Indonesia has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal drugs. Always be respectful of local customs and the natural environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is Bali safe for solo travelers and families?

A: Yes, Bali is a popular destination and is generally very safe for both solo travelers and families. The Balinese people are incredibly welcoming. Just exercise standard precautions: be aware of traffic and watch your belongings in crowded areas.

Q: Do I need an international license to ride a scooter?

A: Yes. To be fully legal and insured, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a motorcycle endorsement from your home country. If you don't have one, it is much safer to use drivers or ride-hailing apps.

Q: How many days are enough for Bali?

A: 3 to 5 days is enough to see the main highlights of one or two areas. To explore more, like the Nusa Islands or North Bali, a trip of 7 to 10 days is recommended.

Q: When is the rainy season in Bali?

A: The rainy season typically runs from November to March. However, the rain is often in the form of brief, intense afternoon showers rather than all-day downpours.

Q: Is the tap water drinkable in Bali?

A: No, it is not safe to drink the tap water. Always use bottled or filtered water, even for brushing your teeth. Many cafés and hotels now offer free refills to reduce plastic waste.