The Ultimate 2 Weeks in Bali Itinerary for First Timers

Bali is the very essence of Indonesia and the pride and joy of the country. Compared to the likes of Java and Sumatra, this island might appear tiny.

But there is so much to see, do, and experience on the Island of the Gods that knowing how to see the best of Bali in 2 weeks is no easy feat.

You’ve got thousands of temples and what feels like hundreds of waterfalls and rice paddies to explore. That’s before you even start thinking about all the towns and villages, as well as excursions and activities such as volcano trekking, scuba diving, surfing, and beyond.

To help you plan your trip to the island, I’ve put together this ultimate 2 weeks in Bali itinerary which is perfect for first-time visitors who want to see the best of Bali in 2 weeks.

My suggestions include all the popular sites that you’ll want to check out, as well as some surprises that you might not have considered. Let’s dive right in!

*Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

Overview of Your 2 Weeks in Bali Itinerary

First things first, let’s talk a little bit about the overview of your 2 weeks in Bali. Instead of telling you what to do day by day, I decided to divide this Bali itinerary into 5 different parts, each covering one part of the island.

Each section contains the best things to do in each area, as well as some useful information about how to get there, where to stay and where to eat.

Breakdown of your 2 weeks in Bali

• Day 1-4: South Bali (Canggu, Seminyak, Kuta, Uluwatu)
• Day 5-7: Nusa Islands (Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan)
• Day 8-10: Central Bali (Ubud)
• Day 11-12: East Bali (Sidemen, Candidasa, Amed)
• Day 13-14: North Bali (Munduk, Lovina)

Map for the best things to do in Bali in 2 weeks

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this 2 week in Bali itinerary.

I marked the different parts of the island with different colors – I used blue for South Bali, yellow for the Nusa Islands, green for Central Bali, magenta for East Bali, and red for North Bali, so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit in each area.

How to use this map: This map is fully interactive, so you can move around, zoom in/zoom out, and click on the icons. If you want to see a larger map, click on the bracket in the upper right corner. To see more details and the different layers, click on the tab in the upper left corner. If you want to save it for later, click on the star icon next to the name of the map. Then simply open Google Maps either on your desktop or phone, go to ‘Saved’/’Maps’, and open the map whenever you need it.

Day 1-4: South Bali

South Bali is the tourist hotspot of Bali. This is where you will find the popular beach, surfing, and party towns of Canggu, Legian, Seminyak, and Kuta which are separated by rice fields, luxurious hotels, and fancy villas.

South Bali is also the location of Denpasar, the island’s capital, although it’s pretty built up so we’re actually going to skip that off your 2 weeks in Bali. 

These sunkissed towns form a neat strip along the southwest coast of Bali, culminating in the southernmost ‘sack’ which is where you will find dreamy Uluwatu and Nusa Dua.

Over on the southeast coast, you’ve got Sanur, which was the original holiday town of Bali although now it’s most popular with families and ex-pats. If you’re really into yoga you might want to check out the Yoga Barn, otherwise, the western side will more than satisfy you.

How to get to South Bali

As you will probably arrive in Bali via plane, you will be pleased to learn that Ngurah Rai International Airport is located in South Bali. 

You will need to take a taxi from the airport to your accommodation in South Bali. As the taxis waiting at the airport are known to inflate their rates when they see tourists, I recommend downloading the taxi app, Bluebird, and using that to pre-book your ride.

Where to stay in South Bali

There are loads of accommodation options in South Bali where your 2 weeks in Bali itinerary will get off to a flying start.

Choose to stay in the beach town that most appeals to you and you can hop around the others during your stay as they’re relatively close. Mind you, local drivers will take you on some hair-raising shortcuts to maximize your time!

Seminyak or Kuta is the most convenient option to stay in as they’re right in the middle and provide the best of both worlds. Below you can find my recommendations for the best places to stay in South Bali for every budget.

• Luxury: The Legian Seminyak, Bali
• Mid-range: Montigo Resorts Seminyak
• Budget: Bali Ayu Hotel & Villas

Best things to do in South Bali

• Watch the sunset at Tanah Lot: Visit this scenic temple perched on a rocky outcrop in Tabanan. Time your trip at sunset to see the water glow golden while locals pay respects to the ocean deities.
• Spend time on the beach: South Bali is home to some of the island’s best beaches. Relax at Padang Padang, Balangan, Jimbaran, or Bingin Beach, perfect for swimming or soaking up the sun.
• Take a day trip to Uluwatu: Explore stunning beaches and the iconic cliff-top Uluwatu Temple. End your day with a sunset kecak (fire) dance performance.
• Cafe hop in Canggu: Enjoy Bali’s foodie paradise at the best cafes in Canggu. Make time for at least a couple of meals here during your trip.
• Spend a day at a beach bar: Relax at South Bali’s top beach bars like Finn’s, The Lawn, Potato Head, or La Brisa, and soak up the lively ambiance.
• Have drinks at Rock Bar Bali: Perched on a cliff at AYANA Resort, this iconic bar offers stunning sunset views, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails by the ocean.
• Perfect your surf: Hit the waves at top surfing spots like Batu Bolong, Kuta, or Echo Beach. Beginners can book lessons with professional instructors to get started.

Where to eat in South Bali

• KYND Community (Seminyak & Canggu): This Instagram-famous plant-based cafe is a must-visit for vibrant acai bowls and delicious plant-based pizzas. Perfect for breakfast or a casual dinner date in paradise.
• Milk & Madu (Canggu): Known for its relaxed vibe, this all-day cafe serves everything from hearty breakfasts to wood-fired pizzas. Great for families, with a dedicated play area for kids.
• La Terrazza (Uluwatu): Enjoy stunning views and authentic Italian dishes at this Uluwatu gem. Perfect for sunset dinners with their fresh pasta and seafood specialties.
• The Avocado Factory (Canggu): Bali’s first avocado bar is a haven for avo-lovers, serving up creative dishes like avocado pancakes, burgers, and smoothie bowls in a charming open-air setting.
• I Am Vegan Babe (Canggu): This vegan eatery is beloved for its flavorful comfort food, from juicy burgers to indulgent desserts.

Day 5-7: Nusa Islands

As if the temples and waterfalls of mainland Bali weren’t enough, bobbing off the southeast shore of the mainland are three additional islands. Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan collectively form the Nusa Islands.

A lot of people only plan a day trip to Nusa Penida but if you have 2 weeks in Bali, it’s worth spending 3 days in the Nusa Islands.

Of the three, the largest, rawest, and most beguiling is Nusa Penida. The signature of the island is its steep, dramatic coastal cliffs which plunge down to meet the roaring ocean.

Once you make your way down these cliffs, you have some of the most beautiful beaches in Bali. They do stray towards the dangerous side and I wouldn’t recommend swimming here due to the strong waves and currents. 

Significantly smaller yet still a treat for the eyes, Nusa Lembongan has some of the nicest beaches in Bali. From this island, you can walk to Nusa Ceningan via an iconic yellow bridge.

How to get to the Nusa Islands 

The only way to access the Nusa Islands is by boat. Regular connections operate between Sanur Beach Harbor and Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan. I recommend booking your tickets in advance on 12Go Asia.

The journey takes around 30 minutes and you should arrive at least 20 minutes prior to departure to orientate yourself. I recommend leaving your main luggage in Bali with the Bali Luggage Service so you don’t have to lug around 20 kg with you.

Where to stay in the Nusa Islands

There are hotels and guesthouses on all three Nusa Islands. My recommendation is that you stay in Nusa Penida and take a day trip to the other two islands. This is the largest island and has the nicest accommodation options, especially in the northwest region. 

Alternatively, you could spend one night on Nusa Lembongan and the rest of your time on Nusa Penida. Below you can see my top recommendations for staying in Nusa Penida for every budget.

• Luxury: Adiwana Warnakali Resort
• Mid-range: Semabu Hills Hotel
• Budget: Surya Maha Bungallo

Best things to do in the Nusa Islands

• Snorkel with manta rays: Swim alongside the beautiful manta rays during a morning snorkel tour of the Nusa Islands.
• Check out Kelingking Beach: Visit the iconic T-Rex-shaped cliff on Nusa Penida. The viewpoint is easy to access, but hiking down to the beach requires effort and sturdy shoes. This is one of the best things to do in Nusa Penida if you’re up for a challenge.
• Admire Angel’s Billabong & Broken Beach: Explore the stunning tidal pool at Angel’s Billabong and enjoy the dramatic views of the limestone archway at Broken Beach, both located side by side.
• Visit Peguyangan Waterfall: Climb the photogenic blue staircase to reach breathtaking ocean views and a small temple where locals perform water blessings. It’s a unique and peaceful spot worth visiting.
• Beach hop on Nusa Lembongan: Relax on beautiful beaches like Mushroom Bay, Jungut Batu, and Dream Beach, ideal for swimming and sunbathing in a more serene setting.
• Bathe in the Blue Lagoon: This picturesque cove on Ceningan Island is perfect for a sunset visit. Depending on the tide, you might also enjoy a safe swim here.
• Snap a photo at Diamond Beach: This is probably one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen in my life so definitely don’t miss it!
• Visit Rumah Pohon Treehouse: Perched on a cliff on Nusa Penida, this famous treehouse offers incredible photo opportunities with sweeping ocean views. It’s definitely one of the most Instagrammable spots in Bali!

Where to eat in the Nusa Islands

• Amok Sunset: Dine on upscale Western-Asian fusion plates by the pool or retreat to your personal treetop nest at this oceanside restaurant on Nusa Penida. Arrive in time for Happy Hour to benefit from 2-for-1 cocktails.
• SLAZA PENIDA Restaurant & Bar: Located near Rumah Pohon, this spot is ideal for a post-sunrise breakfast. Enjoy a mix of Western and Indonesian dishes with a serene atmosphere.
• Penida Colada Beach Bar: A laid-back beachfront bar offering fresh smoothies, cocktails, and delicious meals. Perfect for a casual lunch or a relaxing evening by the sea.
• Next Level Cafe: Just steps from Penida Colada, this cozy cafe serves hearty breakfasts, great coffee, and light bites, making it a convenient and tasty stop.
• Secret Penida Restaurant & Bar: Not so far from the previous two spots, this restaurant offers a mix of local and international dishes, along with a tranquil ambiance perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Day 8-10: Central Bali

Dominated by Ubud and its surrounding jungles and valleys, Central Bali is considered the spiritual and cultural core of the island. This is where you will find some of the most fascinating temples, postcard-perfect rice paddies, and spectacular waterfalls on the island. 

Ubud Town is small but does become very crowded, especially during the high season. You’ll find a real mix of people here, backpackers, honeymooners, families, yogis, and digital nomads.

Once you leave the town, it feels quieter and you can enjoy peaceful scenic drives. Naturally, the attractions of Central Bali are also very popular so I recommend starting your days as early as possible to beat day-trippers and crowds. 

If you’re planning on seeing Bali in 2 weeks then spending 3 days in Ubud is the optimum length of time to discover the best of Central Bali.

How to get to Central Bali

As there is no public transport in Bali, you will need to organize a taxi or private driver to take you to Ubud from Sanur Harbor. 

At this stage in your 2-week travel itinerary to Bali, you may want to arrange a private driver to transport you around the island for the duration of your stay. This way you are covered for all your day trips too.

Where to stay in Central Bali

You will want to book your accommodation in or close to Ubud town. As the town is quite busy you might want to choose a hotel that’s a short drive from the center among the rice fields and jungle valleys.

There are heaps of options available ranging from humble homestays to luxury villas and bamboo huts, below you can see my top picks. If you’re looking for something more special, check out these amazing private pool villas in Ubud!

• Luxury: Kamandalu Ubud (read our full review here)
• Mid-range: The Udaya Resorts and Spa (read our full review here)
• Budget: Gita Maha Ubud Hotel by Mahaputra

Best things to do in Central Bali

• Chase waterfalls: Explore Central Bali’s stunning waterfalls, including Tegunungan, Kanto Lampo, and Tukad Cepung. Join a tour or hire a driver to visit as many as possible and take a refreshing plunge.
• Wander through rice terraces: Hike the Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud and visit the iconic Tegallalang Rice Terraces. Both offer unique experiences and are must-visits during your two weeks in Bali.
• Visit Tirta Empul Temple: This sacred temple features spring water pools for ritual cleansing. Even if you don’t participate, it’s still a beautiful place to visit.
• Discover ancient sanctuaries: Visit Pura Gunung Kawi, a funerary complex, and Goa Gajah, the meditation cave, both of these provide deeper insight into the Balinese heritage and customs.
• See the highlights of Ubud Town: Visit Ubud Palace, Saraswati Temple, and the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary to enjoy the town’s cultural and natural attractions.
• Watch a traditional Balinese dance: If you skipped the kecak dance at Uluwatu or want seconds, you can catch the traditional legong dance in Central Bali. There are nightly performances at Ubud Palace.
• White water rafting in the Bali jungle: For an adrenaline rush, raft down the Ayung River while taking in the lush jungle scenery.
• Wind down in Ubud: Balance your Bali itinerary with some downtime – enjoy a massage, yoga class, or cooking lesson to recharge in Ubud.

Where to eat in Central Bali

• Lazy Cats Cafe: Situated right by the entrance to the Campuhan Ridge Walk, this is the perfect breakfast stop after your morning stroll. It’s hands down one of my favorite cafes in Ubud and the menu is packed with delicious plant-based items.
• Acai Queen: If smoothie bowls, gourmet sandwiches, and cold-pressed juices are your thing, this is a must-visit. The beautifully designed space is perfect for snapping some Instagram-worthy shots while enjoying a healthy meal.
• Milk & Madu: I know I already featured this spot in the Canggu part but since they have a spot in Ubud too, I couldn’t leave it out! They have the best brunch dishes, fresh salads, and artisan pizzas.
• Simply Social: This chic eatery blends Asian and Western flavors, offering everything from vibrant rice bowls to indulgent burgers. With its stylish interiors and laid-back ambiance, it’s a great spot for any time of day.
• Zest: Tucked away in the hills of Ubud, Zest offers innovative plant-based dishes made with local ingredients. The view from the place is also epic!

Day 11-12: East Bali

East Bali is for those of you traveling to Indonesia to chase volcanoes! The main attractions of this part of the island are the two prominent (and very much active) volcanoes of Agung and Batur.

You will know about Mount Agung from the 2019 eruption but you should familiarise yourself with Batur because climbing is one of the best things to do in Bali.

The region of East Bali mainly comprises rustic villages such as Sidemen where traditional weaving and carving workshops are based. There is also a lovely strip of golden coastline around Candidasa and the small town of Amed which is popular with backpackers and divers. 

You can choose to relocate your accommodation in East Bali or you could even stay in Central Bali and visit the eastern attractions as day trips.

A lot of people skip the eastern part of the island, even when traveling around Bali in 2 weeks. But trust me, you will not regret experiencing this part of the island!

Where to stay in East Bali

In terms of where to stay in East Bali, my top recommendation is the Sidemen region so you can peek into what the island was like before the tourist scene boomed.

Alternatively, you can consider the black sand beaches of Amed if you want to go diving or Candidasa which has lots of plush seaside hotels that are perfect for families and couples.

If you’re looking for something more special, there is a nice selection of magical Bali bamboo houses in both Central and East Bali which add something unique to your 2 weeks in Bali itinerary. My favorites are Magic Hill Bali and Camaya Bali!

Below, you can find my recommendations for the best places to stay in Sidemen for every budget.

• Luxury: Wapa di Ume Sidemen (read our full review here)
• Mid-range: Alamdhari Resort and Spa
• Budget: Sawah Indah Villa

Best things to do in East Bali

• Hike to Mount Batur for sunrise: Hiking up to Mount Batur is one of the best hikes in Asia so you definitely shouldn’t miss out on that! You can book a Mount Batur sunrise hike which includes a dip in a natural hot spring or add the even more adventurous option for camping and sunrise on Mount Batur.
• Peer through the Gates of Heaven at Pura Lempuyang: Snap an iconic photo with Mount Agung framed by the Gates of Heaven, then explore the seven temples spread across Mount Lempuyang. Allow around 4 hours to see the entire complex.
• Take in the views at Lahangan Sweet: Known for its panoramic views of Mount Agung and the surrounding landscape, this serene spot is perfect for photography or simply soaking in the natural beauty.
• Take a stroll around Tirta Gangga: This former royal palace features picturesque water pools, statues, and lush greenery. A must-visit for photographers and flower lovers alike.
• Snorkel in Amed: Explore the underwater world at Amed, including the Japanese Wreck from World War II, Turtle Heaven, and thee Underwater Temple.
• Visit Candidasa Lotus Lagoon: Relax by this peaceful lagoon filled with pink and white lotus flowers. Follow your visit with a trip to Blue Lagoon Beach for a refreshing ocean dip.
• Explore Pura Besakih: Known as the ‘Mother Temple,’ this vast complex of 23 temples sits on the slopes of Mount Agung. At 1,000 meters above sea level, it’s one of the holiest and most breathtaking sanctuaries in Bali.

Where to eat in East Bali

• Warung Tirta Unda: Of all the locally owned warungs in Sidemen village, this one offers some of the most delectable dishes. You’ll have an eyeful of greenery as you eat and appreciate this peaceful part of East Bali.
• Sleeping Gajah Kitchen & Lounge: This is hands down my favorite restaurant in East Bali, combining stunning views with creative dishes from Asian fusion to Western cuisines.
• Vincent’s: This Candidasa restaurant pairs scrumptious meat, fish, and veggie dishes with international wines. Visit on a Saturday for live jazz from local musicians. 
• Loaf Candidasa Cafe: Strong coffee, freshly baked bread, and lip-smacking cakes! The Vietnamese bahn mi is also the real deal at this cozy cafe.
• Warung Segara: With tables right on Amed Beach, you get a perfect view of the ocean with the looming Mount Agung. The menu covers classic Indonesian dishes with a couple of Western alternatives. Economical but top-notch.

Day 13-14: North Bali

As you head to the northern part of the island, your 2-week travel itinerary to Bali takes a turn for the misty and mysterious.

Set on higher land, the climate is cooler and more prone to clouds than elsewhere on the island which only enhances the remote and slightly otherworldly atmosphere.

Due to the higher altitude and cooler weather, much of Bali’s produce and coffee is grown in the far north so it’s a good place for foodies.

Much of the trekking trails, temples, waterfalls, and other tourist spots are located around the small mountain village of Munduk. Further north, you have another collection of beach towns, with Lovina being the most popular.

Where to stay in North Bali

The best place to stay in North Bali is Munduk because this way you can easily get to all the nearby tourist attractions. Alternatively, you might want to base yourself in Lovina, but this will involve additional driving each day.

Below you can find my top picks for staying in Munduk for different budgets.

• Luxury: Munduk Moding Plantation (read our full review here)
• Mid-range: Nadira Bali Villa
• Budget: Atres Villa

Best things to do in North Bali

• Visit the ‘floating’ Ulun Danu Beratan Temple: Located on Lake Beratan, this 17th-century temple appears to float when water levels rise. Visit at sunrise to avoid crowds and see it glow in the morning light.
• Chase even more waterfalls: North Bali boasts stunning waterfalls like Banyumala Twin Waterfalls, Gitgit, and Sekumpul. To visit the latter, you can join a hiking tour or visit the viewing platforms independently for spectacular views.
• Watch dancing dolphins: Take a sunrise dolphin-watching tour off Lovina Beach. Enjoy encounters with these majestic creatures and soak in incredible coastal views. Many tours also include stops at Gitgit Waterfall and Ulun Danu Beratan Temple.
• Pose with the Handara Gate: This iconic gateway to a golf resort offers stunning symmetrical architecture and is perfect for a quick photo stop.
• Take cool photos at Wanagiri Hidden Hill: Known for its swings, bamboo nests, and lookouts, this Instagram hotspot offers stunning lake and mountain views.
• Bathe in the holy Banjar Hot Springs: Relax in jade green pools surrounded by tropical foliage. Believed to have healing properties, these 38°C waters are perfect for unwinding.
• Visit Munduk Moding Coffee Plantation: Learn about organic coffee production, sample aromatic brews, and enjoy incredible views. If you can, stay at the plantation’s resort to experience its stunning infinity pool.

Where to eat in North Bali

• Warung Jojo’s: This family-owned restaurant offers you the chance to try any authentic Indonesian fare that you’ve not tried yet. It’s also a homestay and the view is as good as the food. 
• Munduk Farm House: Attached to a friendly guesthouse, this restaurant serves all-day breakfast as well as an a la carte of Indonesian staples and light Western dishes. If you’re unsure, try their signature Ayam Sambal Matah. 
• Warung Ayu Lovina Beach: It’s not hard to find good seafood in Lovina, but this welcoming and colorful eatery prepares its menu to perfection. Expect to see Indonesian classics but prepared with freshly caught fish alternatives, such as the seafood nasi campur.