Bali is a very popular tourist destination – and no wonder! It is full of gorgeous landscapes, unique monuments and bustling party towns. From the party crowd and shoppers to those looking to relax and soak up the culture, there’s truly something for everyone in Bali.
This popularity means there are lots of places to stay in Bali, making it difficult to figure exactly where to base yourself.
Thankfully we have compiled this guide of the best places to stay in Bali to help you figure out your itinerary.
With all of the regions having something different to offer, we have set up this guide to allow you to pick the best area based on your interests. There are handy markers for each region, letting you decide whether you want to stay in the party areas, or if you want something a little more relaxed.
So let’s just jump right into the best areas to stay in Bali!
Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Bali
- Where to stay in Bali for your first time? Ubud
- Where to stay in Bali close to everything? Denpasar
- Where to stay in Bali for nightlife? Seminyak
- Best neighborhood in Bali for families? Nusa Dua
- Where to stay in Bali on a budget? Kuta
- Where to stay in Bali for couples? Jimbaran
- Where to stay in Bali for shopping? Legian
Where to Stay in Bali
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If you’re looking for a sociable place to stay in Bali but want the luxurious facilities of a hotel, then this is the place to stay. Puri Garden is a hostel-hotel hybrid and provides a range of boutique private rooms along with sociable dorms. It also has fantastic common areas including its glistening outdoor pool, which is surrounded by super comfortable seating areas.
The Dewi Sri Hotel is a beautiful 4-star hotel in Legian and boasts an excellent location along with incredible facilities. On-site you can expect to find a massive outdoor swimming pool, a 24-hour restaurant and bar, as well as lush tropical gardens.
Situated in the heart of Bali’s capital, Denpasar, the Banyumas Villa is an ultra-luxurious hotel that offers a VIP experience. On-site at the hotel you can expect to find a beautiful poolside bar and outdoor dining along with a selection of deluxe rooms.
Bali 7 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best neighbourhoods in Bali. Each caters to different interests, so be sure to pick the neighbourhood that’s right for you!
Neighborhood #1 – Ubud
Best neighbourhood in Bali for your first time!
- COOLEST thing to do in Ubud – witness the cultural Barong Dance in Batubulan
- BEST place to visit in Ubud – see the many rice paddies in the naturally beautiful region.
Ubud is a collection of small villages in central Bali. It is a very popular region with backpackers, thanks to the natural beauty and wide range of cultural activities. You will be spoiled for choice in Ubud! If you are making the trip there, you should definitely check out our article about best day trips from ubud.
We think this is the best location for your first time thanks to the wide range of things to do and great tourism facilities. Ubud’s tourism industry has seen a lot of growth recently, and you will be welcomed by locals willing to show you their way of life. It is also a great base away from the main party districts, but still within easy travelling distance.
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Those looking for landscapes and nature will be delighted by the many rice paddies, forests and natural attractions in the region. It is also packed with beautiful temples that will take you right into the heart of local religious beliefs.
- Visit the traditional villages and thriving coffee plantations of the Bamboo Forest with a leisurely bike ride
- Get the adrenaline pumping with some white water rafting down the Ayung River
- Marvel at the temples of Goa Gajah, Pura Gunung Kawi and Pura Kehen – we recommend hiring a guide to fully understand the cultural significance
- Get up close with native wildlife at the Sacred Monkey Forest
- Let your creative juices flow at one of the many art workshops in Andong
- Relax at one of the many spas available across the region – with many of them heated by natural geothermal activity.
- Sample the many local culinary delights such as Babi Guling
Best Budget Hotel in Ubud
Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel
Puri Garden is a super sociable hostel-hotel and is constantly raved about as one of the best places to stay in Bali! On-site at the hotel you will find both dorm and private rooms along with a glistening outdoor pool and a tasty restaurant and cafe serving up a storm of Buddha bowl-esc meals.
Best Mid-range Hotel in Ubud
Sabana Ubud
Sabana Ubud provides all the facilities you would look for in a hotel in Bali including an outdoor swimming pool, cute garden along with a tasty restaurant and bar that serves up a storm of delicious cocktails and gourmet dishes.
Best Luxury Hotel in Ubud
Plataran Ubud Hotel & Spa
This is another well-located hotel – it only takes 5 minutes to walk to the Sacred Monkey Forest! Each room is well equipped with en-suite bathrooms, and there are even options for rooms overlooking the rice paddies. Spa facilities are available, as well as complimentary yoga classes and local area tours.
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Neighborhood #2 – Denpasar
Where to stay in Bali close to everything!
- COOLEST thing to do in Denpasar – visit Denpasar in late June for the Bali Arts Festival
- BEST place to visit in Denpasar – see the Palace of Sataria for an idea of how the royals of Denpasar live as well as how locals worship
Denpasar is the capital of Bali and therefore incredibly well connected with other areas of the island – especially the south. It is likely where your flights will arrive and depart. Though many tourists skip Denpasar, it is absolutely worth keeping on your Bali itinerary!
The city itself is very multicultural, featuring residents from across Indonesia and the world. As such, there are many bustling markets, art boutiques and restaurants on offer with a wide variety of cuisines.
The city also transforms every June and July for the Bali Arts Festival, where you can witness the best cultural performances the island has to offer, as well as some great exhibits from across the world.
Denpasar is a great shopping destination, with discount brands and local crafts available at great prices. This is one of the best places in Indonesia to grab a souvenir to take home or gift to friends and family.
- Rent a motorbike to explore the city like a local
- Visit the Alun-Alun Puputan statue to discover the centre of Hinduism in Denpasar
- Learn about the history of Bali at the Bali Museum
- Admire traditional and contemporary Balinese art at Taman Wedhi Budaya Cultural Centre
- Sample fresh food, rich spices and local handicrafts at the Badung Central Market
- Taste the multicultural cuisines of Bali at the many restaurants across the city – including Indian, Thai and Malaysian
- Dive deep into the local nightlife at Kereneng Night Market – a much more local experience than the resorts of Southern Bali
- Admire the Bajra Sandhi monument – dedicated to the struggles of the Balinese people
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Best Budget Hotel in Denpasar
The Paica
Also located in the outskirts of Denpasar, this budget hotel is within the beautiful river areas giving it a quaint setting. Guests are each given a private room, however, there are communal dining areas and patios giving you the opportunity to socialise with your fellow travelers.
Best Mid-range Hotel in Denpasar
Omatha Village
A holiday park-style hotel with a great selection of room options from cute doubles to large family rooms, Omatha Village Hotel is an awesome place to stay in Denpasar for a large range of travelers. It also has a great location away from the hustle and bustle of Denpasar but also just a 5-minute drive from the Art Center Denpasar.
Best Luxury Hotel in Denpasar
The Banyumas Villa
This ultra-luxurious hotel gives you the VIP experience whilst still being located right in the heart of Denpasar! Each room has its own private kitchen and dining area, and there is a beautiful poolside bar and outdoor dining area on-site. The hotel also offers a variety of day-trip options and local tours.
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Neighborhood #3 – Seminyak
Where to stay in Bali for nightlife!
- COOLEST thing to do in Seminyak – party in style in one of the many upscale nightclubs available in Seminyak
- BEST place to visit in Seminyak – head to Pura Petitenget, a typical Balinese temple that often hosts lavish ceremonies by the side of the beach
Often overshadowed by neighbouring Kuta, Seminyak is an up-and-coming nightlife spot in its own right. The bars and clubs here are a little more upmarket, so this area is perfect for those looking to splurge on a great night out!
The streets are bursting at night with tourists and locals alike looking for a fun night. There are plenty of bars to cater to wealthy travellers, and Seminyak also has the most established gay bar strip on Bali for LGBT visitors. There is truly something for everyone in Seminyak when it comes to nightlife.
What Seminyak lacks in local culture, it makes up for in fun daytime activities. The large beach is the perfect spot to relax after a hard night of partying, and also hosts a variety of activities for visitors looking to keep the fun going. Foodies will also fall in love with the world-class cuisine on their doorstep in Seminyak thanks to the booming tourist market and skilled chefs that visit the area time and time again.
- Ride along Seminyak Beach on horseback – great for both adults and kids!
- Try out scuba diving or snorkelling off the coast of Seminyak at one of the many clubs on the shore
- Browse the local markets for fresh food, gorgeous spices, and beautifully handcrafted clothes
- Learn how to cook traditional Balinese cuisine thanks to the number of classes available in the centre of town
- Release those toxins gained from nights of partying at one of the many spas and massage parlours across Seminyak
- Try out surfing on the beach
- Visit the more modern boutiques for some contemporary fashion with a local twist
Best Budget Hotel in Seminyak
Grandmas Plus Hotel Seminyak
You will feel right at home in this hotel that has a very welcoming atmosphere. The rooms have a very rustic design, and there are plenty of activities – such as yoga, cooking classes and bicycle tours – to allow you to mingle with other guests. It is well located a short walk from both the beach and the nightlife areas.
Best Mid-range Hotel in Seminyak
Kusuma Resort Seminyak
Kusuma Resort Seminyak has a beautiful design, with the hotel being fitted with modern Balinese décor and dark wood furniture throughout. The hotel also has a stunning outdoor pool area equipped with sun lounges, which is the perfect place to soak up the Balinese sun.
Best Luxury Hotel in Seminyak
Double Six Luxury Hotel
Located right on the waterfront, this is an excellent option for splurging during your time in Seminyak. There is a large pool on-site, as well as a spa and multiple high-quality restaurants. With fully equipped rooms and great customer service, you won’t want to leave!
Neighborhood #4 – Nusa Dua
Best neighbourhood in Bali for families!
- COOLEST thing to do in Nusa Dua – try out the many water sports available along the gorgeous beach.
- BEST place to visit in Nusa Dua – the Pasifika Museum is a hidden gem, showcasing art from across Bali, Indonesia and Polynesia.
Nusa Dua is a great neighbourhood for families on a higher budget. The town is full of excellent resorts, with multiple facilities in each hotel meaning you won’t need to set foot outside of the complex. As most of the nightlife is contained within the resorts, the town and beach are also much safer for children.
Geger Beach is, without a doubt, the main draw to Nusa Dua for many visitors. The large white-sand beach is lined with great activities – most of which are family friendly! The bars and restaurants also have a very laid-back vibe, allowing to relax and soak up the atmosphere.
The town also has some lesser-known cultural delights – with art being the main focus. Though not as popular with shoppers as other parts of the island, Nusa Dua has some quaint boutiques that are great for picking up souvenirs. You can also relax in one of the many spas across town.
- Spend the day in luxury at Nusa Dua Golf and Country Club, with one of the best-rated courses in Bali and great relaxation facilities
- Relax with traditional holistic therapies from Bali at the Alam Alang Bali Spa
- Take an excursion by glass bottom boat to Turtle Island, and admire the diverse marine life surrounding the Bali coast
- Witness the raw power of nature at the Water Blow area – filled with excellent scenery for photographs
- Enjoy a laid-back lunch on the beach at Nusa Dua Beach Grill
- Learn to spin records at the Nusa Dua DJ School
Best Budget Hotel in Nusa Dua
Palm Bamboo Hotel
A beautiful 3-star hotel situated in the heart of Nusa Dua, Palm Bamboo Hotel has great facilities at budget-friendly prices. At the hotel, each room is fitted with comfortable beds equipped with deluxe bedding and come with a balcony featuring either a garden or pool view.
Best Mid-range Hotel in Nusa Dua
The Lerina Hotel Nusa Dua
The Lerina Hotel Nusa Dua features lavish amenities and reasonable prices, making it a great place to stay for those who want a sense of luxury but don’t want to break the bank on a trip to Bali. Some of the facilities the hotel offers include an outdoor swimming pool, a boutique on-site spa along with a health and wellness center.
Best Luxury Hotel in Nusa Dua
Grand Hyatt Bali
Looking for a resort where you can just relax all day and enjoy the multiple entertainment options? The Grand Hyatt is exactly what you need! This resort boasts 5 pools, a large spa area, and 8 on-site restaurants with a variety of cuisines. It is located right on the beach, and only a short walk from the Water Blow.
Neighborhood #5 – Kuta
Where to stay in Bali on a budget!
- COOLEST thing to do in Kuta – try out surfing at Bali’s most famous beach
- BEST place to visit in Kuta – spend a day at Waterbom – the largest water park in Southeast Asia
Kuta is a haven for budget travellers! The beach is perhaps the best known in Bali thanks to the wide array of attractions on offer – from watersports to cheap restaurants and bars. Kuta also has a great nightlife scene with low drinks prices and a good range of music options.
The main beach is also very popular with surfers thanks to cheap board hire and great water conditions. Scuba diving is a rewarding experience in Kuta thanks to the beautiful marine life surrounding the coastline. If you’re looking for watersports, Kuta is the place to be!
Though a little grittier than other resort towns in Bali, Kuta has some great local shops and markets for you to enjoy local and international goods at highly discounted prices. If you are planning on staying in multiple areas whilst in Bali, it is also a great place to enjoy some home comforts thanks to the wide range of Western restaurants available in the town.
- Learn about the darker side of Balinese history at the Bali Bomb Memorial
- Enjoy one of the many yoga classes available along the beach
- Relax on a budget at the well-priced spas in the town centre
- Take in the beautiful sunset with a cocktail in hand at a beachfront bar
- Sample local meatballs from the food carts that wander along the tourist strips
- Let your hair down at the budget bars and nightclubs across the town – though beware of the notorious arak cocktails
- Learn local meditation practices at the Secret Garden of Divine Mother
Best Budget Hotel in Kuta
Pondok Taksu Bali
Pondok Taksu Bali has an aesthetic design throughout with wooden furnishings and cute plants scattered throughout the hotel. On-site at the hotel you will also find a 24-hour reception, multiple terrace areas, and a large selection of room options.
Best Mid-range Hotel in Kuta
The Diana Suite
One of the main perks of this hotel is its stunning outdoor pool that glistens in the Balinese sun. Along with this, The Diana Suite Hotel is home to beautiful outdoor seating areas, a tropical garden, and a gourmet restaurant.
Best Luxury Hotel in Kuta
Hard Rock Hotel Bali
This hotel is a tourist attraction in itself! The well-located hotel is famous across the island as being the place to be for experiencing great nightlife. It is also located right on the beach, giving you great access to the many activities on offer. There is a huge pool and terrace area – and of course the Hard Rock Cafe on-site.
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Neighborhood #6 – Jimbaran
Best neighbourhood in Bali for couples!
- COOLEST thing to do in Jimbaran – indulge in yoga and holistic practices at Mirah Delima Institute
- BEST place to visit in Jimbaran – enjoy the sunset and romantic scenery at Tegal Wangi Beach
Jimbaran is a very upscale neighbourhood, making it the perfect getaway if you are looking for a relaxing break. It is popular with honeymooners thanks to the romantic vistas on offer and calm atmosphere.
It is also a great destination for shoppers – especially if you are interested in antiques and boutiques! The items here are very expensive, but in return, you will be treated to high-quality goods that will last a lifetime – so be sure to leave space in your luggage.
Jimbaran is also well placed for exploring the rest of the island, with many tour companies offering day trips to cultural and scenic attractions across Bali. The town combines high-class tourism facilities with cultural experiences that allow for an enriching experience.
- Enjoy surfing and swimming at one of the safest beaches available on Bali
- Unwind at the luxury spas available across town
- Visit Jalan Uluwatu for high-quality boutiques and great antique stores
- Sample fresh produce and mingle with the locals at Jimbaran Market
- Taste the alluring cuisine on offer from the side of the beach at the seafood grills dotted along the coast
- Enjoy a more sophisticated nightlife experience at the Chocolate Cafe, with live music and DJs on offer
- Wander along the quaint streets and alleys of Jimbaran Town Centre, full of friendly locals and quirky monuments
Best Budget Hotel in Jimbaran
Zuri Express Jimbaran
If you’re looking to save a little on accommodation in Jimbaran, you can’t go wrong with Zuri Express! This hotel has everything you need, including an outdoor pool and wide breakfast options. Complimentary shuttles to the beach and village centre are provided to all guests.
Best Mid-range Hotel in Jimbaran
The Open House Jimbaran
The Open House Jimbaran is the perfect romantic resort to enjoy a relaxing break in Bali. The hotel is designed to be eco-friendly, and sources interiors from local craftspeople and antique stores. All rooms have a balcony or terrace where you can enjoy views of the coastline and sunsets, and there is a large pool on-site.
Best Luxury Hotel in Jimbaran
Infinity8 Bali
Infinity 8 Bali is a stunning and post-card-worthy hotel that has luxurious facilities throughout. This includes an incredible outdoor pool that overlooks the ocean along with a beach club, infinity spa, gym, and rooftop dining area.
Neighborhood #7 – Legian
Best neighbourhood in Bali for shopping!
- COOLEST thing to do in Legian – enjoy the vibrant shopping scene across the area
- BEST place to visit in Legian – admire the fire performances and buskers along Legian Beach
Legian is a small town located between Seminyak and Kuta. Though it still has a sizeable tourist scene, it is not as popular as the neighbouring towns making it a great place to escape the overwhelming atmosphere of the more popular areas.
Nevertheless, Legian is still a great area to experience the best of what Bali has to offer. The shopping district is renowned for its great array of boutiques, designer outlets and international stores – making this the best place for shoppers! After shopping, you can also sample some great cuisine for lower prices than the neighbouring tourist traps.
Legian also has its own gorgeous beach that has a much more relaxed atmosphere than other beaches in Southern Bali. The area bursts with life in the evenings with street performers, and has a much more reserved manner during the day – perfect for sunbathing and swimming!
- Unwind at the fish spas offering Asian foot treatments, as well as regular manicures and pedicures
- Pick up some unique Balinese arts and crafts at the Jalan Melasti market
- Indulge in endless bakso and mie goreng at the well-priced restaurants along the waterfront
- Join in with football games on the beach – the locals are very welcoming!
- Take surfing lessons – the less hectic atmosphere makes it the perfect place to learn
- Admire the beautiful sunset across the beach with a local beer in hand at the beachfront bars
- Sample fresh produce and local flavours at the Jalan Sriwijaya market
Best Budget Hotel in Legian
Euphoria Hotel
The Euphoria Hotel is also well located, with great connections to Kuta on the doorstep. All rooms are fully air conditioned with a well equipped en suite bathroom. There is an indoor pool – giving you a little more privacy as you unwind in the evenings.
Best Mid-range Hotel in Legian
Dewi Sri Hotel
Dewi Sri Hotel has a fantastic location just a short walk from Kuta Beach and a short drive from both the International Airport and the famous Waterbom Bali Park. On-site at the hostel, you will find a huge outdoor swimming pool, a 24-hour restaurant & bar, along with tropical gardens.
Best Luxury Hotel in Legian
The Bandha Hotel and Suites
This hotel rates very highly amongst previous guests – and it’s easy to see why! It is located right on the beach and has a large outdoor pool. There is a spa and a fitness centre available, and the bar is very well equipped. For extra luxury, you can even opt for a room with your own private hot tub!
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Bali?
Bali is touristy – but with good reason! The island has it all – from cultural experiences and delicious cuisine to bustling nightlife and vibrant shopping areas. This is a great entry-point to Southeast Asia, and even as a destination in its own right. Whatever you are looking to get out of your trip, we know you will find it in Bali.
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If we had to pick one area out of all of them, we would have to suggest Ubud. This is the cultural hub of Bali and will give you the most enriching experience. It is also well connected to the party towns of the south, letting you experience it all in one trip!
We hope this guide has helped you choose the best area for you. Choosing the best accommodation in Bali can seem daunting, but it is absolutely worth it.
Have we missed anything from this list that visitors absolutely need to know about? Let us know in the comments!
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