Bali is the most popular island in Indonesia and has been welcoming travelers in for years! From the beautiful beaches to the hip cafes and amazing temples, there’s so much to see and do on this island. While you could easily spend more than 10 days in Bali, we’ve come up with a shorter itinerary to help you plan your visit. We’ll even included 2 more of our favorite islands to visit if you have time! Here’s a fun 10 day Bali itinerary with Gili Air and Nusa Penida.
How to Get to Bali Indonesia
To start your Bali 10 Day itinerary, you’ll most likely be flying into Ngurah Rai International Airport. It’s east enough to catch to catch a domestic flight with airlines like Batik Air from Jakarta.
There are also plenty of international flights which go direct from all over Southeast Asia. Try for flights with Skyscanner to compare different companies and find the best deals. Typically, we make a connection in Doha, Singapore, or Bangkok before continuing onto Bali.
Australians are known to visit Bali island the most of any country with flights taking just a few hours from the major cities. There are also many ferries available from the surrounding islands which we will get into later! Check out these fun facts about Bali while planning your own visit.
Quick Tips for 10 Days in Bali
High Season: One important tip to know before starting your 10 day Bali itinerary is the best time of year to go. Rainy or “monsoon season” stretches from October to March and when you’ll often see less travelers.
Dry season is from April to September if you’re looking for peak sunshine. However, this is also when the most tourists go to this popular destination. Check out our article about the best and worst time to visit Bali.
Renting a Motorbike: Scooters are the most utilized mode of transportation by both travelers and locals in Bali. Just know this doesn’t come without warning!
Really, you should only think about renting a scooter in Bali if you’re very experienced driving. The traffic can be hectic and it’s not a great option if it’s your first time on a motorbike.
Sim Card: The first thing you should do when you get to the airport is buy a sim card. This is perfect for getting around and translating at local restaurants. You can also get an E-sim before you arrive (we like this company) and download an offline map like maps.me.
North vs South: The north and south of Bali couldn’t be more different from each other. As you’ll see in this article, the south is where most tourists go with the best beaches and hotels. The north is more remote and quieter, yet still totally worth experiencing.
More Time: Even though this is a 10 day Bali itinerary, know that there is so much more to see and do if you have time. You could easily spend two to three weeks on this massive island itself! It’s also simple to use the ferries to get to the Nusa Islands, the Gili’s, or Lombok.
Why Bali, Gili Air & Nusa Penida?
We absolutely love island hopping! It’s become one of our favorite ways to travel in both Europe and Southeast Asia.
On our last visit to Bali we couldn’t help but to continue on to the Gili’s and Nusa islands. This itinerary is built for travelers who are looking for a fast-paced and adventure-packed trip.
However, know that you can easily add more days if you want to slow down a little. All of the islands in Indonesia offer a different and unique experience from one another.
The Ultimate 10 Day Bali Itinerary
3 Nights in Uluwatu
After getting to the airport, you’ll want to make your way south to the Bukit Peninsula. We recommend arranging a private transfer with your hotel beforehand, or you can pre-book a driver so they’re waiting for you on arrival.
The Southern part of Bali is the most lively area of the island with several awesome beach towns to explore. Some of the most popular places to stay are Canggu, Kuta, Nusa Dua, Sanur, and Seminyak. However, after many trips to Bali, our top pick is the seaside paradise of Uluwatu.
This is a calmer spot that has less of the crazy party vibes of some of the other towns. It’s also famous for its towering cliffs and one of the best places for surfers on a 10 day Bali Itinerary.
We recommend starting your Bali vacation here for 3 days as you may be recovering from jet lag in the beginning. Why not take some time to relax and enjoy Bali’s best beaches in Uluwatu?
What To Do in Uluwatu
Explore the Beaches: Without a doubt, the biggest draw to Uluwatu are the fun waves and soft sands. While it is known primarily for surfing, there are so many different white sand beaches to enjoy that offer different things. Some of our favorites include Dreamland, Bingin, Padang Padang, Suluban, and Nyang Nyang.
Take in Cliff Views: One of the best parts about visiting Uluwatu is the massive cliffs that tower over the sea. There are many lookouts and beach bars that provide scenic views of the water below. You can also hike down to the different beaches or take in the spectacular Bali sunset.
Uluwatu Temple: Speaking of the sunset, the very best place to watch it is from the Uluwatu Temple! We highly recommend getting tickets for the Kecak Fire & Dance show and then sticking around as the colors change in the sky.
Surfing: Bali is world famous for its surf, and Uluwatu is known as the best area to catch some waves. The surf breaks range from expert to beginner so it’s a good place for all different levels. Pay close attention to high and low tide here, and watch out for dangerous rip currents.
Spa With a View: Grab day passes to the The Istana for the ultimate spa experience! There is a massive pool, fun cafe, and jacuzzi, cold plunge, steam room, and sauna.
This is the perfect place to visit when you are fighting jet lag. After you can walk over to Mana restaurant which is part of Uluwatu Surf Villas for a delicious lunch.
Cafes & Restaurants: Speaking of food… Uluwatu has some of the very best restaurants in Bali! They range from local warung eateries to upscale restaurants, and hip remote working cafes. Whether you’re in the mood for Indonesian food or a pizza, Uluwatu has something to eat for everyone.
More Beach Towns: Uluwatu is a great place to see more of Bali’s southern coastal towns. If you have some experience driving you can easily rent a scooter and go beach hopping. Otherwise, hire a taxi to take you on a day trip or for an afternoon in Canggu or Nusa Dua.
Where to Stay in Uluwatu Bali
Ultra Luxury – Alila Villas Uluwatu – Have some money to spend and want a taste of luxury near Uluwatu Temple? Then this is the spot for you! Most villas include private pools and incredible views of the ocean.
Fun Vacation – Village Bali – Add a fun twist to your Bali 10 day itinerary with this cool and colorful decor. This hotel is located perfectly near Padang Padang Beach.
Boutique Hotel – Hari Indah Boutique Hotel & Spa – Upscale bed and breakfast surrounded by a beautiful jungle setting. On site spa & restaurant, Bali vibes, and an amazing swimming pool!
Relaxing Stay – Davu Sundara Villa Uluwatu – A family run guesthouse with large rooms that overlook a lush jungle swimming pool. Quiet and relaxing area just outside of the main hustle and bustle of Uluwatu.
→ 18 Best Uluwatu Hotels For a Dreamy Bali Holiday
2 Nights in Ubud
Once you’ve gotten your beach time in, it’s time for a completely different experience. The next part of our 10 day Bali itinerary takes us to the spiritual capital of Ubud.
You may have seen this town popularized in movies like “Eat, Pray, Love” with Julia Roberts. Over the years, it’s become a center for yoga, temples, and jungle adventures.
Ubud is the perfect place to relax, go hiking, and take in the beautiful nature of Bali. It is a 2 hour drive from Uluwatu to get here so you’ll need to hire a transfer through your accommodation for the day you leave.
What To Do in Ubud
Tegalalang Rice Terrace: The rice terraces are a highlight of Bali, and Tegalalang in Ubud is the perfect place to see them. The best time to visit is when the rice fields are in bloom is between April and October just after the rainy season. You’ll also want to go in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and daily heat.
Monkey Temple: The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a fun nature reserve and temple complex to explore. It’s home to over 600 monkeys which will be playing all around you.
Just don’t get too close or attempt to feed the monkeys! If you get bit you’ll likely be spending the rest of your 10 day Bali itinerary getting checked up with rabies shots from the hospital.
Ubud Waterfalls: Ubud is famous for it’s waterfalls and one of the main reasons travelers make the trip! Some you can hike to from town, while others are just a quick drive away.
A small number of waterfalls even have pools which you can swim under! A few of favorites are Sumampan, Suwat, Tegenungan, and Layana.
Campuhan Ridge Walk: One of the most scenic walks in Ubud takes you from town on a stunning trail through the hills, palm trees, and rice paddies. It starts from the Pura Gunung Lebah Temple and takes 30 minutes each way. You can also stop at the local cafe for a drink and to take in the views before heading back!
→ This is a popular day tour from Ubud that takes to many of the best spots around the area.
Where to Stay in Ubud Bali
Ultra Luxury – Hanging Gardens of Bali – Just north of Ubud is one of the most iconic hotels in all of Bali. Huge pools cascade through the property creating the ultimate luxury jungle escape.
Fun Vacation – Adiwana Resort Jembawan – This resort has everything you need with a pool, spa and even yoga classes! The rooms are decorated in a modern tropical style that make for the perfect Ubud holiday.
Boutique Hotel – Gynandha Ubud Cottage – A brand new hotel set overlooking the beautiful Ubud rice paddies. Jump on a bicycle to see the scenic area or relax in the pool.
Relaxing Stay – WW Backpackers – Great option close to all the action in town. A both charming and affordable accommodation where you can meet other travelers.
1 Night in Amed
Ready to head to the eastern coast of Bali? From Ubud, hire a private transfer to take you the 2.5 hours to Amed Beach. The best way to do this is not just going from point A to B. We recommend hiring a driver who will give you a tour as well!
This is what we arranged after speaking with a local we met in town. We spent the entire day (over 8 hours) visiting everything from the water temple to amazing volcano viewpoints, and so much more!
This lovely coastal town is known for its black sand beach and close proximity to the Mount Agung volcano. You’ll find a more laid back compared to the south, with fewer crowds and an authentic vibe.
Amed is also a great place to spend a night as it’s one of the launch off points to the Gili Islands. Be sure to leave Ubud as early as possible so you can have a full afternoon enjoy the town.
While this isn’t the most popular spot to take off to the Gili Islands, we absolutely loved it! The boat trip is well set up and not as crazy as leaving from the main ferry port in Bali. Know that this is a fun area in itself and one of the best places to go scuba diving on the island.
If you don’t want to take a day tour of the southeast coast then it would be best to spend another night in Ubud. You can then leave for the Gili Islands from Sanur ferry port.
What To Do in Amed
Swim with Sea Turtles: Amed is an awesome place to go snorkeling or scuba diving in Bali! Hire a tour guide to take you out in a boat to the best spots. You will see sea turtles and other incredible marine life here.
Walk the Black Sand Beach: Bali has all different kinds of beaches to enjoy, but this may be the most unique. We loved walking the black sand, taking in the views of Mount Agung, and the scenery all around us. There are also white sand beaches around Amed as well.
Admire the Volcano: The impressive backdrop to Amed is the island’s largest volcano. If you rent a motorbike you can even get closer to it and get some fantastic photos.
Tirta Gangga Water Palace: Make a trip to the beautiful water palace near Amed. It was built in 1948 by King of Karangasem and features all kinds of fountains and special statues.
Where To Stay in Amed Bali
Divers Lodge – Kura Kura – Just two minutes from the beach. This is a great property if you are thinking about staying longer and doing some diving.
Amazing View – Amed Beach Villa – Hands down one of the best views in town! The Amed Beach Villa overlooks the entire beach and volcano in the distance.
Homestay – Narayana Homestay – Charming and inexpensive homestay set back from the beach. Simple, but stylish rooms with a very comfortable feel.
Ferry From Bali to Gili Air
For this part of your 10 day Bali itinerary you’ll want to jump on the ferry to the Gili’s. There are daily boats that go between Amed and the three main Gili Islands.
First, you’ll need to get from Amed Beach over to where the ferry leaves from in town. We booked a combo ticket with our hotel that included a shuttle transfer and boat ride for $30 USD.
Keep in mind they will give you a specific pick-up time and make other stops along the way. So you may be in the vehicle for longer than it takes to actually get to the pier. Ask your hotel how much a transfer is at is might be cheaper to get there yourself.
There are several different boat companies that make this route. If weather conditions aren’t looking good (especially during monsoon season) you will want to delay your trip until it clears up. Otherwise, you could have a bumpy ride ahead of you!
→ Amed to Gili Trawangan: How to Get from Bali to the Gili Islands
1 Night on Gili Air
While there are three different Gili Islands to consider on your visit, Gili Air was our favorite. The first ferry stop is Gili Trawangan which has the most accommodations, bars, and restaurants. However, it felt like more of a party island to us where Gili Air is more of a relaxing paradise.
You may have to switch boats on Gili T before continuing to Gili Air depending on the season. Be sure to ask what type of tickets are being offered when you get to the office.
Gili Meno is the middle island and the most popular for snorkeling and scuba diving. If you’re taking a boat tour from either of the other two islands you’ll likely be heading to diving spots around Gili Meno.
Of course, if you have more time after your Bali itinerary you could even hit all three islands! Here’s our complete guide to taking the ferry between the Gili’s once you’re there. In total, it took about 2 hours for both the van and boat to transfer from Amed to Gili Air.
→ Gili Air Indonesia: What Makes it the Best Gili Island?
What to Do on Gili Air
Hit the Beaches: You will find many of the best beaches in the Gili’s on Gili Air. They range from long sandy beaches to pebbly enclaves, and fun coves.
Go Diving & Snorkeling: The water is crystal clear in the Gili Islands! The abundance of underwater life and sea turtles make it a great place for scuba diving and snorkeling. We hired a private boat for $60 USD to take our group on a snorkeling trip.
Rent a Bicycle: The island is walkable, especially around the main beach areas. Another fun way to get around Gili Air is by bicycle. You can rent one from many of the hotels or local shops. There are no cars on the Gili Islands and you should avoid the horse carriages.
SUP: Renting a stand up paddleboard can be a great way to get out on the water. Gili Air has mostly calm seas which are perfect for this fun adventure sport. If the conditions are right you can also grab a board from The Surf Bar and hit the break.
Food & Drink Options: Warung Sunny, Good Earth Cafe, Mama’s Pizza, Sapari’s, Coffee & Thyme, and Gili Lumbung.
Where to Stay in Gili Air Indonesia
Lux – PinkCoco Gili Air – We can’t recommend this hotel chain enough if you’re anywhere in Indonesia. PinkCoco has one of the most fun island designs and decor we’ve seen in Southeast Asia, and it’s near all the best beaches on Gili Air.
Fun Vacation – Mowies Gili Air – Awesome location on the island. Great ambiance with a luxury feel.
Hostel – Beranda Ecolodge – Fan-only dorms, but cheap enough if you want to splurge for your own room. Nice layout in the center of the with a pool, bar, and breakfast area.
2 Nights on Nusa Penida
After you’ve enjoyed your day on Gili Air it’s time for the last stop on your 10 Day Bali itinerary! Nusa Penida is a beautiful island that is particularly fun for outdoor lovers. If you feel like this is too much you can always extend your time in the Gili Islands.
However, know that Nusa Penida is full of small beach towns, hikes, and epic viewpoints. When you arrive, you’ll see there is a large town near the main ferry port.
Don’t let this fool you though! Nusa Penida is still relatively new to tourism compared to Bali and the accommodations are sprinkled all around the coastline.
It’s easy to get here by jumping on a 2-hour ferry from Gili Air to Nusa Penida (book tickets here). You can also take a boat straight from the main ferry port in Bali (check prices) if you want to skip the Gili Islands.
Have more time after your 10 day Bali itinerary? Then you should definitely check out some of the other Nusa Islands. Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Lembongan each have their own activities, beaches, and style you will love.
→ Nusa Penida: Island Guide & How to Hike to the Best Beaches
What To Do in Nusa Penida
Circle the Island via Motorbike: Our favorite days on Nusa Penida were spent driving around on a scooter beach hopping and taking in the scenery. The tourist attractions are spread out around this large island so you’ll need a vehicle to get almost anywhere. Another option would be to hire a private driver if you’re not comfortable on a motorbike.
Atuh Beach and Diamond Beach: Two different coves which are separated by a giant cliff. You can park and hike down to both of them and have a swim in the sea.
Atuh Beach is a bit less steep, and there are a couple beach bars down at the bottom. In contrast, Diamond is a bit more of a harrowing hike and the sands are clear of any buildings.
Thousand Islands Viewpoint: As you can tell by the name, thousand islands is such an amazing lookout! You’ll have a view of what seems like endless islands off in the distance.
Kelingking Beach: This is the famous T-rex shaped beach you may have seen in photos. The climb down is one of the most intimidating on Nusa Penida so we wouldn’t recommend it for everyone. Still, the view is worth it whether you hike or not.
Where to Stay in Nusa Penida Indonesia
Fun Vacation – Daphila Cottage – Great hotel with a unique luxury bungalow design. Includes a pool, private balconies, and beautiful views of the mountainside.
Budget Travel – Kuri Garden Cottage – This was our homestay for a couple of days on our first visit to Nusa Penida! There are 3 bungalows with a family-style atmosphere. Breakfast is included and they have a pool for you to enjoy.
Hostel – Nuansa Penida Hostel – Four, six, and eight-bed hostel dorms with private rooms available. You can also book brand new cottage style wooden rooms with a pool and on-site restaurant.
Have More Than 10 Days in Bali & the Islands?
As we’ve mentioned, this is a loose guide to help you plan out your own holiday. If you want more nights in the Gili’s, Nusa Islands, or on Bali then you definitely should!
As full-time remote workers, we always keep our plans flexible. That way if we fall in love with a certain place it’s easy for us to extend. This happens to us quite frequently and we often find ourselves booking more nights then we planned.
However, we understand it’s not the same for everyone. If you’re traveling long distances on a shorter holiday then you’ll want to have each day planned out well.
Have any questions on this article or want to share your own Bali 10 day itinerary? Leave us a comment below!
Safe Travels
Brigitte & Jake
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Indonesia Travel Planning
Flights: We always find deals using Skyscanner and Kayak. That’s how we got flights from Singapore to Bali for $60 USD, and Bali to Surabaya for less than $40!
Accommodation: Compare competitive sites for hotels such as Booking.com and Agoda. Also, Hostelworld should be your go-to source if you’re traveling on a budget.
Transportation: 12Go is where we look first in Asia for ferries, trains, buses, and transfers! From speed boats to the Gili Islands and bus transfers around the country.
Tours: Check out Get Your Guide for activities all over Bali. We recommend taking a sunrise Mount Batur hike with breakfast, an authentic cooking class in a local village, and the Ubud waterfall tour!
Travel Insurance: Never travel abroad without being covered. We’ve been using SafetyWing for the last few years on the road and they are there when we need them.
Packing Lists: Here’s all the inspiration you need with our Amazon packing lists. Including electronics and camera gear, must-have medical items, and long flight essentials!
We’re Brigitte and Jake! American travel bloggers currently based in Spain. If you can believe it, we started Nothing Familiar way back in 2015 on an Ipad in the Ecuadorian jungle. Ever since, we haven’t stopped traveling! We’ve now been to over 60 countries around the world, with our expertise being Europe and Southeast Asia. We love outdoor adventures, tasting local specialties, and island hopping through tropical destinations. Hopefully, our guides and authentic experiences will inspire you on your own travels!
