What to Do in Ubud: 15 Must-Visit Spots You Can’t Miss in Bali’s Cultural Heart

Ubud is known as Bali’s cultural capital surrounded by lush rice terraces, peaceful temples, waterfalls, and vibrant local art. If you're planning what to do in Ubud and what to visit in Ubud during your Bali trip, this guide will help you find the best spots to explore nature, culture, spirituality, and adventure.

Here are the 15 best places to visit in Ubud to experience its magic:

1. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is one of the most iconic attractions in Ubud, known for its ancient temples, jungle paths, and playful monkeys. This protected forest offers a unique experience where you can walk through towering trees and stone statues while observing Balinese long-tailed macaques in their natural habitat. It’s peaceful, green, and deeply cultural.

Make sure to secure your belongings and avoid feeding the monkeys. With its mystical atmosphere, this sanctuary is a must when deciding what to do in Ubud, especially for nature lovers and photographers looking for a blend of history and wildlife.

2. Tegalalang Rice Terrace

The Tegalalang Rice Terrace is one of Ubud’s most photographed landscapes, featuring dramatic rice terraces with lush scenery. Stroll through the fields, admire Bali’s traditional subak irrigation system, and enjoy the peaceful morning mist. For extra fun, try the famous jungle swings and sky nests.

Cafés around the terraces offer beautiful viewpoints and refreshing drinks. For travelers curious about what to visit in Ubud for nature and culture, Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a must-see.

3. Campuhan Ridge Walk

The Campuhan Ridge Walk is the perfect escape into nature without leaving central Ubud. Enjoy a scenic stroll along a hill ridge surrounded by palm trees, green hills, and soft breezes. Come early for sunrise to experience the peaceful golden hour.

Along the route, you’ll find cafés and art studios, making it great for a relaxing stop. If you're looking for what to do in Ubud that brings calm and beauty, this walk is ideal.

4. Tirta Empul Temple

Tirta Empul Temple is a spiritual destination known for its holy spring water used in purification rituals. Visitors come to perform melukat, a cleansing ceremony believed to wash away negative energy and renew the spirit.

With sacred pools, ancient shrines, and a peaceful atmosphere, this temple offers an authentic cultural experience. If you're exploring what to visit in Ubud, don’t miss this sacred landmark.

5. Ubud Palace

The Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung) showcases beautiful Balinese architecture, detailed carvings, and historical royal structures. It’s located in the heart of Ubud, making it easy to visit during a day walk.

In the evening, enjoy traditional dance performances featuring Legong and Barong stories. Watching a show here is one of the most iconic cultural experiences when planning what to do in Ubud.

6. Ubud Traditional Art Market

The Ubud Traditional Art Market is the best place to buy local crafts, woven bags, artwork, and souvenirs. Every lane is filled with colorful stalls displaying handcrafted Balinese goods.

Bargaining is expected, so enjoy the fun shopping experience. For travelers deciding what to visit in Ubud for culture and local vibes, this market is essential.

7. Tegenungan Waterfall

Tegenungan Waterfall is one of the closest waterfalls to Ubud and offers stunning natural views. You can walk down to the waterfall base, cool off in the mist, and enjoy the river scenery.

With cafés and natural viewpoints, it’s a great nature spot. If you're wondering what to do in Ubud for adventure and relaxation, this waterfall is a must-stop.

8. Kanto Lampo Waterfall

Kanto Lampo Waterfall is famous for its rock formation and cascading water, making it perfect for photography and cooling off. The shallow pool and accessible location make it family-friendly.

It’s less crowded early in the morning, and the natural beauty creates a magical jungle feel. Add it to your list of what to visit in Ubud for nature lovers.

9. Goa Gajah Temple

Goa Gajah Temple, also known as the Elephant Cave, is a historical temple complex dating back to the 11th century. Its mysterious cave entrance and ancient carvings make it a fascinating cultural site.

Inside, you'll find meditation spaces, fountains, and tranquil forest grounds. It's a great destination for travelers exploring what to do in Ubud to learn Balinese history.

10. Saraswati Temple

Saraswati Temple is dedicated to the goddess of knowledge and art. With beautiful lotus ponds and elegant architecture, this temple is a quiet and inspiring place to visit.

Relax in the nearby cafés overlooking the ponds and enjoy the peaceful scenery. A perfect pick when deciding what to visit in Ubud for serene beauty.

11. Bali Swing Experience

Bali is famous for its jungle swings, and Ubud is the best place to try them. Fly over tropical forests, rice fields, and river valleys is a thrilling and photogenic experience.

With safety harnesses and stunning views, it's a memorable bucket-list activity when choosing what to do in Ubud.

12. Ayung River Rafting

For adventure lovers, Ayung River Rafting offers exciting rapids surrounded by lush forest and hidden waterfalls. It’s beginner-friendly and guided by trained instructors.

This activity combines thrill and nature, making it ideal when planning what to do in Ubud for adventure and fun.

13. Yoga & Wellness Centers

Ubud is a global hub for wellness, offering yoga studios, healing retreats, and meditation centers. Whether you're a beginner or advanced yogi, you'll find peaceful spaces to recharge.

If you're deciding what to do in Ubud for relaxation and mindfulness, try a yoga class or spa retreat.

14. Blanco Renaissance Museum

The Blanco Renaissance Museum showcases the work of famous artist Antonio Blanco. Sitting on a hill with river views, the museum offers paintings, sculptures, and Balinese-inspired art.

Art lovers searching for what to visit in Ubud shouldn't miss this cultural gem.

15. Tegallalang Art Village

Just north of Ubud, Tegallalang Art Village is filled with wood-carving workshops and art galleries. Watch local artisans create intricate Balinese crafts and purchase handmade artwork.

It’s one of the best destinations to explore local creativity and craftsmanship in Bali.

After exploring the beauty of Ubud, you deserve a comfortable and inspiring place to recharge. If you're staying in Bali, come stay at Alzeto Co-Living a cozy modern space designed for travelers, remote workers, and long-stay guests who want comfort, community,and calm energy. Feel at home while connecting with like-minded travelers and enjoying Bali at your own rhythm.