Best weekend getaways from Ubud you don’t want to miss

Best weekend getaways from Ubud you don’t want to miss

From picturesque temples to white-sand beaches, discover the eight best weekend trips from Ubud in this guide.

Known as the cradle of art and culture in Bali, Ubud is chock-full of intricate temples, bustling markets, and lush forests to explore. Though there are so many things to do in Ubud, you can discover even more exquisite sights on a weekend getaway from Ubud. Admire awe-inspiring vistas at Mount Batur or sample mouthwatering local dishes in Denpasar. Go snorkeling in the crystal waters of Nusa Penida or trek through rice terraces in Jatiluwih. With so many unmissable places to experience in Bali, discover the eight best weekend trips from Ubud in this guide.

Best weekend getaway from Ubud, according to your interests

Best weekend getaways for culture: Uluwatu and the Karangasem Regency

Best weekend destinations for food: Denpasar and Canggu

Best weekend trips for relaxation: Gili Islands and Nusa Penida 

Best weekend trips for outdoor adventure: Mount Batur and Jatiluwih

Heading to Uluwatu to watch a cultural performance or fire dance is one of the most exciting weekend trips from Ubud.

1. Uluwatu

Recommended for

Culture and nature enthusiasts

Top things to do in Uluwatu over a weekend

Discover a village where vibrant culture blends with natural beauty in Uluwatu. Feel the spray of the ocean at Melasti Beach and explore the sacred grounds of the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park before ending your evening with a captivating Kecak fire dance at the Uluwatu temple. 

Best way to travel from Ubud to Uluwatu

Accessible by bus, car, or private transfer, the 32-mile (53-kilometer) trip from Ubud to Uluwatu takes around an hour and a half. 

Take in the stunning Pura Lempuyang Temple with a clear view of Mt Batur at the Karangasem Regency.

2. Karangasem Regency

Recommended for

Photographers and architecture enthusiasts

Top things to do in the Karangasem Regency over a weekend

Immerse yourself in the magic of Bali and snap a photo at one of Bali’s most Instagrammable landmarks on a weekend getaway through the Karangasem Regency. Step into the clouds at Lempuyang Temple, where Bali’s Gates of Heaven attract thousands of tourists each year. Explore the heart of Balinese culture with a private tour of the Tirta Gangga water palace or the Mother Temple of Besakih, a magnificent architectural complex representing religious harmony.

Best way to travel from Ubud to the Karangasem Regency

You can travel 37 miles (60 kilometers) to the Karangasem Regency from Ubud by car or private transfer in two hours. 

One of the best weekend getaways from Ubud is to Denpasar for a foodie road trip.

3. Denpasar

Recommended for

Foodies

Top things to do in Denpasar over a weekend

Delve into one of Indonesia’s richest culinary scenes in the capital city of Denpasar. Take a cooking class and learn authentic Balinese recipes or sample regional favorites like babi guling, a roast pork dish, on a street food tour through Denpasar. The city is also home to the Badung Market, a popular tourist stop for fresh produce, spices, and other local eats. 

Best way to travel from Ubud to Denpasar

Travel 15 miles (23 kilometers) from Ubud to Denpasar in about 30 minutes by car or 50 minutes by bus.  

Photo: pal-o-mine

Take a surf lesson in Canggu and enjoy the black sand beaches/

4. Canggu

Recommended for

Food lovers and beachgoers

Top things to do in Canggu over a weekend

With its black-sand beaches and top-rated eateries, Canggu is a popular pick for a weekend trip from Ubud. This chic coastal town is a foodie’s paradise known for its homely restaurants offering classic Balinese dishes like beef rendang, a slow-cooked stew. After getting your fill of local food, pass the time with a surf lesson on Canggu’s black-sand beaches or take a Balinese jewelry-making class and bring home a one-of-a-kind souvenir. 

Best way to travel from Ubud to Canggu

It takes about an hour to travel 17 miles (28 kilometers) from Ubud to Canggu by car or private transfer. Rideshare apps are also a common way to get transport from Ubud to Canggu.

The Gili Islands offer a relaxing seaside getaway, or a partygoer's paradise, depending on your mood.

5. Gili Islands

Recommended for

Beach lovers 

Top things to do in the Gili Islands over a weekend

Made up of three distinct islands, the Gili Islands are one of Bali’s best weekend trips from Ubud for those seeking an escape from city life. Gili Islands surf lessons with knowledgeable trainers or a cruise on the crystal-clear waters in a glass-bottomed boat are some of the top activities. Whether you prefer a beach with a lively party scene or a secluded romantic retreat, paradise awaits you on a weekend trip to the Gili Islands.  

Best way to travel from Ubud to the Gili Islands

The most popular way to travel the 96 miles (155 kilometers) from Ubud to the Gili Islands is by taking a fast boat from Padangbai Harbor. Total travel time is around three hours. 

Photographers, look no further: Nusa Penida offers Bali's most gorgeous beach scenes with dramatic cliff backgrounds.

6. Nusa Penida

Recommended for

Outdoor lovers and beachgoers

Top things to do in Nusa Penida over a weekend

Known for its clear waters, marine life, and spectacular beaches, Nusa Penida is home to some of Indonesia’s most photogenic coastlines. Lounge by crystal waters at Atuh Beach or visit Kelingking Beach and marvel at its iconic T-rex-shaped cliff. Take a dive off a private speedboat and go snorkeling at Manta Bay. No matter how you spend your weekend getaway from Ubud, you’ll discover ultimate relaxation on the sandy shores of Nusa Penida.

Best way to travel from Ubud to Nusa Penida

You can travel the 24 miles (39 kilometers) to Nusa Penida from Ubud in about two hours total by taking the fast boat from Sanur Harbor. 

Head to Jatiluwih for a meaningful weekend getaway from Ubud, exploring life in the rice fields.

7. Jatiluwih

Recommended for

Nature and culture enthusiasts

Top things to do in Jatiluwih over a weekend

Experience the best of rural Bali with a weekend getaway to Jatiluwih, home to the UNESCO-listed Jatiluwih Rice Terrace. The Jatiluwih Rice Terrace is the largest in Bali, covering over 600 hectares with famous cascading rice paddies. Trek through the topography of the Batukaru mountain range, sip Balinese coffee at a cafe overlooking the lush landscape, or enjoy a breathtaking sunset view at the Tanah Lot Temple on your weekend trip from Ubud.

Best way to travel from Ubud to Jatiluwih

You can travel the 24-mile (40-kilometer) distance from Ubud to Jatiluwih by car or private transfer in about an hour and a half.

A trip to Bali wouldn't be complete without visiting Mount Batur, the iconic giant that dominates the skyline.

8. Mount Batur

Recommended for

Nature lovers and hikers

Top things to do at Mount Batur over a weekend

Make a memory that will last a lifetime with a sunrise hike to the summit of a volcano on a weekend trip to Mount Batur. Since its last eruption in 2000, Mount Batur has become one of Bali’s most popular destinations for outdoor recreation. After watching the sunrise over the sea, descend to Lake Batur and dip in the rejuvenating waters at a natural hot spring. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy a view of the peak with a Jeep tour of Mount Batur. 

Best way to travel from Ubud to Mount Batur

Take a train to travel the 24 miles (40 kilometers) from Ubud to Mount Batur in about an hour by car or private transfer. 

Weekend trips from Ubud: FAQs 

What are some nearby destinations for a weekend trip from Ubud?

Denpasar, Canggu, and Mount Batur are the best weekend getaways from Ubud and are each just an hour away.

What are the main transport options from Ubud?

Traveling by private transfer, car, or bus is the most efficient transport option from Ubud. Rideshare apps are also commonly used in Bali.

Where can you drive to easily from Ubud?

Uluwatu, Denpasar, and Canggu are three of the best weekend trips from Ubud within driving distance. Opt for hiring a private transfer or booking a private bus tour to take the hassle out of transportation. 

When is the best time to take a weekend trip from Ubud?

The best time to take a weekend trip from Ubud is during Indonesia’s dry season between April and October.

What are the best places for families to visit for a weekend trip from Ubud?

Exploring the Jatiluwih Rice Terrace, lounging at the beaches of Nusa Penida, or watching the traditional Kecak fire dance at Uluwatu are great weekend trips from Ubud for families.

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