How to Spend Two Days in Ubud, Bali

After celebrating my son’s wedding along Bali’s dazzling coastline and a quick jaunt to the Komodo Islands, it was time for me to treat myself to some solo adventures. My son and his new wife flew back to Jakarta, while I made my way inland to spend two days in Ubud, Bali’s lush, cultural hub. 

I had three nights and two full days to explore—and, yes, to enjoy the sweet freedom of solo travel.

I’ll admit, Ubud didn’t disappoint. For any traveler craving a mix of serenity, scenery, and spiritual vibes, two days here is actually perfect. I spent my time visiting temples, wandering rice fields, and eating meals I didn’t have to share with anyone. Here’s how I spent each day:

Day 1: Monkeys, Shopping, and the Perfect Sunset Stroll 

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

I kicked off my first full day at the Sacred Monkey Forest—a place that’s as enchanting as it is, well, monkey-filled. The forest is a green oasis in Ubud’s heart, complete with mossy statues, winding trails, and temples dating back to the 14th century. I spent a couple of hours here watching the monkeys play, climb, and occasionally snag a tourist’s hat (note: sunglasses are best stashed away). The ticket costs about 80,000 IDR ($5.25), and it’s worth every penny for the laughter—and the unique sense of peaceful chaos only monkeys can bring.

Lunch and Shopping

Refueled by a blissfully solo lunch at Cafe Wayan, I spent the afternoon browsing Ubud’s main shopping streets. This town is an artisan’s haven, with boutiques offering everything from hand-carved wood and delicate silver jewelry to quirky art and bold textiles. I loved wandering from shop to shop, picking up treasures I could justify as “souvenirs,” and smiling at the locals who were endlessly patient with my mostly successful attempts to bargain.

Saraswati Water Palace

With shopping bags in hand, I made a quick stop at the Saraswati Water Palace, a serene little sanctuary dedicated to the goddess of wisdom. The pink lotus ponds and Balinese architecture made this one of the most beautiful spots to stop for a few photos (and an excuse to rest my feet). To enter, I donned a sarong and sash provided at the gate—always a fashionable touch in Bali.

Campuhan Ridge Walk

To wrap up the day, I hit the Campuhan Ridge Walk for a sunset stroll. This winding path took me along a ridge with sweeping valley views and a faint glow from the setting sun. At a little over a mile each way, it was the perfect length for unwinding after a busy day. Motor scooters aren’t allowed here either which makes it really nice to walk and not have to worry about them darting around you all the time. I think that’s why this is one of the more popular walking trails in Ubud. 

Day 2: Rice Terraces, Temples, and the Kecak Fire Dance Finale

Sari Organik Walk

Day two began with the Sari Organik Walk, a path less traveled but worth every step. I wandered through rice paddies so green they looked Photoshopped, and the only sounds were the chirping birds and distant farmers at work. This walk is about 1.5 miles each way, ending at a cluster of organic cafes—a bonus for anyone ready for a fresh coconut or a plate of nasi goreng. I actually enjoyed this walk much more than the Camphuan Ridge walk. Yes, there was an occasional motor scooter but I didn’t pass another single person on my whole walk. It was so nice to feel so far removed from everything.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Afterwards, my driver took me to the famous Tegalalang Rice Terrace. The terraces are every bit as stunning as Instagram suggests, with tiered paddies rolling down the hillside like steps to paradise. The entry fee was just 25,000 IDR ($1.50), and as luck would have it, I arrived before the crowds. I spent an hour here, wandering up and down the terraces and soaking in the solitude.

Pura Tirta Empul Water Temple

For my next stop, my driver took me to Pura Tirta Empul, a 10th-century water temple that’s a sacred site for purification rituals. Locals and tourists alike come to bathe in the spring water, which is believed to wash away negative energy. I watched, fascinated, as people lined up to dip under each of the temple spouts. Exiting was a chaotic maze through vendor stalls, and while some of the sellers were pretty aggressive, my firm “no thank you” smile served me well. Entry was around 50,000 IDR ($3.25), and I purchased the entry ticket when I arrived at the temple. I spent about an hour here soaking up the temple’s peaceful energy.

Kecak Fire Dance

My two days in Ubud ended with the Kecak Fire Dance at Pura Dalem—a unique Balinese performance where men chant in unison while dancers reenact a tale from the Ramayana. The dancers’ movements and the hypnotic chanting made this performance unforgettable, a spellbinding end to my stay in Ubud. Tickets were 75,000 IDR ($4.75), and the show lasted about an hour—enough time for me to reflect on my mini adventure before walking back to my cozy cottage.

Reflections on 2 Days in Ubud

These two days in Ubud offered exactly what I was looking for—a break from the tourist hustle, a dip into Bali’s spiritual heart, and plenty of time to relish my singlehood. Ubud’s calm atmosphere, the blend of nature and culture, and the easygoing friendliness made it perfect for solo travel. For anyone considering a solo trip to Bali, let me assure you: two days here will leave you feeling renewed, inspired, and perhaps even a little in love with your own company.

Where to Stay: Samas Cottages and Villas

If I could marry a hotel, Samas Cottages and Villas would be a strong contender! Coming here solo, I couldn’t have picked a better place to spoil myself. Tucked just off Ubud’s bustling main streets, this little oasis struck the perfect balance between quiet retreat and easy access to everything. I could walk to the Monkey Forest, shop up and down the main streets, and even stroll to temples without breaking the proverbial sweat. (It’s hot in Bali, I was always sweating.)

Now, let’s talk about this one-room cottage—private, tranquil, and decked out with everything a solo woman could want. But the best part? Each morning, a handsome young staff member would appear at my porch with a tray of freshly prepared breakfast, just for me. I couldn’t help but think, This is better than breakfast in bed!

The staff were exceptional—warm, attentive, and ready to share tips or call me a Grab to wherever I wanted to go. If you’re looking for a place to recharge, revel in some peace, and maybe start your own little love affair with Bali, Samas Cottages is the place.

How to Get to Ubud

Getting to Ubud is straightforward, especially if you’re flying into Bali’s main airport, Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar. Here are some options for making the journey to Ubud:

By Taxi or Private Driver

A taxi or private driver is the most convenient and direct way to reach Ubud from the airport. The drive takes about 1-1.5 hours, depending on traffic. While airport taxis are readily available, arranging a private driver in advance can be a bit more comfortable and often comes at a similar cost. Expect to pay around 300,000–400,000 IDR ($20–$27) for a one-way trip, though rates can vary. If you take a taxi, make sure it’s Bluebird Taxi. They are the most reputable.

By Rideshare (Grab or Gojek)

Grab and Gojek are rideshare services (like Uber) that are widely used in Bali. If you use the Grab app to book your ride, the app will display images directing you to the pick-up location. This option is often more affordable, with fares ranging between 200,000–300,000 IDR ($13–$20).

By Rental Car or Motorbike

Renting a car or motorbike is another option if you’re comfortable driving. However, traffic in Bali can be hectic, especially for those unfamiliar with local driving conditions. Motorbikes are a popular choice for short-distance travel within Ubud, but for getting there from the airport, this is best left to experienced riders.

Once in Ubud, you’ll find the town is highly walkable, with most major attractions located close to each other.

FAQ for First-Time Travelers to Ubud

Is Ubud safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Ubud is generally very safe, even for solo travelers. I felt comfortable walking around by myself, even in the evenings. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and there’s a calm, community-oriented feel throughout the town. As always, it’s best to stay aware of your surroundings, but overall, it’s a very secure place to explore alone.

Do I need cash, or can I use credit cards?

While some places in Ubud accept credit cards, cash is essential, especially in local markets, smaller cafes, or for entry fees at temples and attractions. ATMs are widely available, and having Indonesian rupiah on hand makes transactions much easier.

What’s the weather like in Ubud?

Ubud has a tropical climate, meaning it’s warm and humid year-round, with temperatures ranging from 75-88°F (24-31°C). There are two main seasons: the dry season (April to October) and the rainy season (November to March). Even in the rainy season, mornings are usually clear, with rain showers in the afternoon. Light, breathable clothing and a rain jacket or umbrella are ideal for staying comfortable.

Is there Uber?

Rideshare services like Uber aren’t available in Bali, but Grab (a similar app) and Gojek are widely used. Alternatively, you can easily arrange a private driver for longer distances or day trips, which is common and affordable in Ubud. I hired a private driver to visit the Tegalalang Rice Terraces and Pura Tirta Empul since I wasn’t able to walk there.

Do people in Ubud speak English?

Yes, most people working in tourism—such as hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers—speak English well. You may encounter some locals with limited English, especially in smaller shops or more rural areas, but communication is generally easy, and people are very willing to help.