Bali: Where is it located?

Bali, that hidden gem in the heart of Indonesia , is much more than a destination; it is a dream turned into an island. Imagine a place where the mountains meet the ocean, where rice fields spread out like green carpets and the sun seems to melt on the horizon every evening. Located in Southeast Asia , Bali is that corner of the world that awakens the imagination and the traveling soul of everyone.

Halfway between heaven and paradise, Bali invites you to disconnect from the everyday and lose yourself in its magical landscapes, between mystical temples and endless beaches. Here, every corner holds a story, every sunrise brings a new promise and every step is an invitation to dream. Bali is not just visited; Bali is lived, felt, and remembered forever.

 

How to prepare for traveling to Bali?

Getting ready for travel to bali It's like preparing your soul for a unique experience. It's not just about packing your bags, but opening your mind to what awaits you on this magical island. If you're dreaming of Bali, here are some tips to make sure everything goes swimmingly.

Bali is a place that invites you to relax, to connect with nature and culture . Leave the stress of everyday life behind and make room for adventure. What can you expect? From ancient temples to beaches that seem straight out of a dream, but also a pace of life that teaches you to take it easy.

Find the details about essential clothing, footwear, toiletries, first aid kit and medicine cabinet, and other essentials so you can enjoy your trip.

 

Do I need a visa to travel to Bali?

As for the visa , if you are going to be less than 30 days, don't worry, you won't need to do any prior paperwork. But if you plan to stay longer, it's good to find out about the options for extension or tourist visa. And if you have doubts about the currency, in Bali we use the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) , so it's key to carry some cash, although cards are accepted in many places.

To really feel like you are in Bali, don't forget to do some research on the local customs . Read it in our Bali guide . Respect for traditions is essential and although the Balinese are very friendly and hospitable, it is good to be aware of certain behaviours, such as dressing respectfully when visiting temples.

 

Bali climate

The tropical climate This is one of the things to keep in mind, so don't forget to bring light, comfortable clothing and, of course, sunscreen. The sun is generous, but I assure you that every sunset is worth it. It is also advisable to bring a good pair of comfortable walking shoes, because Bali invites you to explore its corners on foot, whether exploring the rice fields or climbing a volcano.

Season	Months	Climate	Average temperature	Recommended activities
Dry season	From April to October	Sunny, with less rain, ideal for outdoor activities	30°C during the day, 22-24°C at night	Enjoy the beach, hiking, exploring the island
Rainy season	From November to March	Frequent rains, especially in the afternoon/evening	28°C all day long	Visit temples, explore the interior of the island, enjoy the local culture

 

What to see in Bali

In Bali , every corner has a special vibe, and this island makes you fall in love with it through small details. When you spend a few days there, you learn to see Bali with different eyes, and you always find places that, even if you visit them a thousand times, never cease to surprise you.

 

What to eat in Bali

Balinese cuisine is rich in intense flavours and local traditions, characterised by the use of spices such as turmeric and ginger, and typical dishes such as Babi Guling (roasted suckling pig) and Nasi Goreng (fried rice). For a taste of Balinese food, warungs offer affordable and authentic options, while tourist areas such as Seminyak and Ubud have restaurants that fuse the traditional with the modern. Bali also has a growing number of vegetarian and vegan cafes and restaurants, especially in areas focused on healthy and sustainable food.

We have prepared a list of the restaurants we visited for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. In this list you will find options for all budgets.

 

Ulun Danu Bratan Temple

The Ulun Danu Bratan Temple on Lake Bratan is one of those places that takes your breath away. There are moments when the mist rises, the temple is reflected in the water, and suddenly it seems like the whole world stops.

Ulun Danu Beratan pays homage to Dewi Danu , the goddess of water and lakes, at a site steeped in history and spirituality.

A special detail awaits you as you cross the entrance: a Buddhist stupa on the left, symbolising the harmonious fusion of Buddhist and Hindu beliefs in Bali. You can enjoy the tranquillity of the temple from the shore, where its reflection in the water creates a romantic image, or rent a canoe and paddle across the lake to explore the meru, those straw shrines that seem to float on the water, up close.

Luhur Uluwatu Temple

Luhur Uluwatu Temple is one of those breathtaking places in Bali. Situated on the edge of a cliff, it offers incredible views of the ocean and is a sacred site for the Balinese, who believe it protects the island from evil spirits. If you are coming from Ubud, it is best to leave early to avoid traffic and, in the process, visit some of the best beaches such as Balangan and Padang Padang.

Monkeys are part of the temple's charm, although they are known for stealing glasses and cameras, so be careful! At sunset, Uluwatu becomes even more special, with a sky in shades of orange and pink, creating a magical atmosphere. If you are there at that time, don't miss the Kecak dance , a cultural show that immerses you in the essence of Bali.

 

If you love temples, here is a list of the ones you can visit in Bali:

• Uluwatu Temple : This clifftop temple took my breath away, especially at sunset. Watching the Kecak dance with that sea background is something I will never forget.
• Tanah Lot Temple : Tanah Lot is simply spectacular! It is on a rock in the sea, and at sunset it looks like a movie with the waves breaking around it.
• Besakih Temple : The “Mother Temple” on Mount Agung is huge and full of energy. Every corner feels sacred, especially during local ceremonies.
• Ulun Danu Beratan Temple : This floating temple on Lake Beratan looks like a fairy tale, surrounded by mountains and a magical mist that makes it unique.
• Tirta Empul Temple : Diving into its sacred waters was an incredible experience; seeing people in their purification rituals makes it even more special.
• Goa Gajah Temple : The “Elephant Cave” is a curious and mysterious place. The carved entrance and the dark atmosphere give it a very special atmosphere.
• Pura Luhur Batukaru Temple : Hidden in the jungle, this temple is pure silence and peace; I felt like I was in a world apart in the middle of nature.
• Taman Ayun Temple : With beautiful gardens and towers that seem to float, it is a lovely place to walk and enjoy Balinese architecture.
• Pura Dalem Agung Temple : Surrounded by huge trees, this temple dedicated to Shiva has a mysterious air and seems to come from another time.
• Pura Kehen Temple : Located in Bangli, among ancient trees, this temple has a tranquil atmosphere that invites reflection.
• Pura Samuan Tiga Temple : A place of peace in Gianyar that represents religious unity. Its spiritual energy is very special and welcoming.
• Pura Gunung Kawi Temple : With its rock-carved monuments and surrounded by rice fields, it is a place that made me feel like I was traveling back in time.
• Pura Sakenan Temple : I went during Kuningan, and seeing the locals asking for protection and blessings at this temple was very inspiring.
• Pura Ulun Danu Batur Temple : Located near the volcano, the temple honors the goddess of Lake Batur and is vibrant and colorful, especially during its ceremonies.
• Pura Melanting Temple : It is a temple with a hopeful energy, where merchants come to ask for prosperity; I found it very charming!
• Pura Segara Temple : Located by the sea, it is a place where fishermen pray. The connection with the ocean is felt in every corner of the temple.
• Pura Jati Luwih Temple : Among the rice fields of Jati Luwih, this temple is pure harmony with nature; the whole environment envelops you in incredible peace.

 

We have visited the main tourist spots in Bali and have selected the best ones for you, according to our opinion. In addition, we have prepared an itinerary with the main points on Google Maps to make your trip easier. In our Bali guide , we give you several tips on how to prepare for the trip, local culture, useful information and our recommendations.

 

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Jatiluwih , in the heart of Bali, is like a dream come true. Imagine bright green rice terraces stretching as far as the eye can see, forming an incredible landscape amidst the mountains. This UNESCO-recognised site is not only stunning for its beauty, but also for the “subak” farming system, which connects local people to the land and water in a super special way.

Walking through Jatiluwih at sunrise or sunset is pure magic: the soft mist, the total peace... it's as if time has stopped. Every corner invites you to relax and enjoy the best of Bali in its most natural state.

 

Beaches of Bali

Bali offers a variety of beaches to suit all tastes, from quiet spots to areas full of excitement. Its shores feature golden sands and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming, diving or surfing. The beaches in southern Bali stand out for their cliffs and spectacular views, while others offer a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy your day and stunning sunsets. In addition, Bali's beaches are known for their fresh seafood stalls and vibrant markets, making them destinations full of life and culture.

For those who prefer less crowded beaches, Nusa Penida is a real treasure. It has places like Kelingking Beach , with a famous rock that looks like a dinosaur peeking out, and Crystal Bay , ideal for taking a dip and snorkeling when the sun is at its peak.

Find the details of your trip to Bali in our travel guide . There you can discover not only the main tourist spots that we visited , but also information about restaurants, hotels, local information, a list of essentials for your trip and much more.

 

If you like beaches, here is a list of beaches you can visit in Bali:

• Kuta : Kuta is vibrant and full of life, perfect if you are looking for partying, surfing and epic sunsets. It is always quite crowded though.
• Seminyak : This is a more chic beach, with lots of luxury bars and beach clubs. Ideal for spending the day among the sand, cocktails and good music.
• Nusa Dua : This beach is perfect for relaxing; it has calm waters and soft sand. Ideal if you are looking for a relaxing resort experience.
• Jimbaran : Known for its open-air seafood restaurants, this is a magical place to dine on the sand as the sun sets. The atmosphere is amazing!
• Sanur : Sanur is quiet and family-friendly, ideal for a relaxing day, and the promenade is perfect for walking or cycling.
• Padang Padang : Small but famous, with crystal-clear waters and surrounded by cliffs. A hidden paradise, although it gets quite crowded.
• Uluwatu : Uluwatu is a surfer's paradise and has breathtaking views from the cliffs. The sunset here is almost mystical.
• Balangan : Balangan has that bohemian vibe, with great waves to surf and a laid-back atmosphere. A place to unwind!
• Bingin : Hidden among rocks and with a quiet atmosphere, Bingin is ideal for surfers and to enjoy an almost private corner.
• Amed : A more isolated and famous spot for diving. Its calm waters and seabed full of corals are not to be missed.
• Lovina : With its black sand beaches and dolphin watching boat rides at sunrise, Lovina has a very authentic and special vibe.
• Canggu : It is one of my favorites, with its young and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for surfers, beach clubs and trendy cafes.
• Dreamland : Just as the name suggests, Dreamland has crystal-clear waters and waves perfect for surfing. A gem on the coast!
• Legian : Similar to Kuta, but a little quieter, perfect for surfing and then enjoying a cocktail on the sand.
• Blue Lagoon (Padang Bai) : Small and picturesque, this cove has blue waters and is ideal for snorkelling and relaxing in peace.
• Green Bowl : Secluded and surrounded by nature, Green Bowl has crystal-clear waters and caves - perfect if you want a remote beach!
• Melasti Beach : Melasti is incredibly beautiful, with cliffs and turquoise blue waters. The scenery here is simply spectacular.
• Seseh Beach : A quieter and less touristy beach, with dark sand and a very local atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the sunset.

 

Additional Tips

To make your trip even more relaxing, we have left you a list of apps , both local and for your entire trip. If you want to know a complete list of where to stay, the best restaurants and a complete itinerary for 2 weeks in this paradise, don't miss our Bali Travel Guide and find everything you need!