1 Week in Bali - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Discover Bali's Waterfalls: Munduk, Pumuteran & Sanur

Crafted for travelers eager to experience the many fascinating temples, roaring waterfalls, and tucked-away villages Bali is renowned for, this weeklong trip promises a well-rounded adventure. Starting with three nights in Munduk, you'll immerse yourself in the northern highland landscapes with hikes, guided tours, and visits to quaint villages. Then, spend the second half of the trip between Pemuteran and Sanur, each ideal spots to enjoy land and water-based activities. 

Welcome to Bali! Your adventure begins with a scenic transfer from the Denpasar airport to the serene northern highlands village of Munduk. Settle into your hotel, which will be your home for three nights, and spend the evening getting your bearings while exploring independently. The next morning, embark on a guided walk to Tamblingan Lake, then delight in a short hike to Aling Aling Waterfall for a refreshing swim. On your final day in Munduk, challenge yourself with an uphill trek to Umejero Village and onward to Santhiipala Waterfall before treating yourself to a Balinese massage at a nearby spa. 

From Munduk, you'll head northwest to the coastal village of Pemuteran. After refreshing at your hotel, your first evening here is spent on a guided trek through bamboo forests to Wekumpul, Bali's tallest waterfall. Next, cruise to Menjangan Island, located in the Bali Barat National Park, and discover its colorful underwater world during a snorkeling excursion. That afternoon, the choice is yours to laze on Pemuteran Beach or visit Pulaki Temple. Then, transfer to Sanur the following morning, where you'll round off your adventure with an insightful cycle tour around the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Indonesia Island-Hopping Adventure: Bali, Lombok & Gili Islands

Perfect for water-loving visitors to Bali, this island-hopping adventure focuses on the lively beaches of Seminyak, the well-known and secret Gili Islands, and the towering waterfalls on Lombok. You'll pack in numerous memorable activities, including a surf workshop, two days of snorkeling, and jungle hikes. Plus, with time set aside to book in massages or laze on sandy beaches, you'll leave feeling fully rejuvenated and sun-kissed.

Straight off the plane at Denpasar Airport, you'll meet your driver and be whisked away to the lively resort town of Seminyak. Take the rest of the day to shrug off jet lag, which will be easy, considering there are numerous beaches to sunbathe, spas to book a massage, and water activities to tick off. Then, refreshed and eager for more, you'll join a surfing workshop in South Bali the following morning and reward your hard work by settling in at one of Echo Beach's beachside clubs. Next, on the morning of Day 3, it's time to bid farewell to mainland Bali and ferry to Gili Trawangan.

This small island, off the coast of Lombok, is known for its lively party atmosphere, yet it also offers pockets of serenity, both here and on nearby islands. This balance becomes evident as you embark on a snorkeling excursion the following day, visiting Turtle Point near Gili Meno and Haan's Reef near Gili Air. Then, allocate a day to explore Lombok and discover its spectacular waterfalls, including Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu. As your trip draws to a close, enjoy a day snorkeling among the less-known "Secret Gilis" of Gili Nanggu and Gili Kedis before returning to Bali to catch your onward flight. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Bali Unveiled: Culture, Temples & Beaches in Ubud & Sanur

Delve into Bali's rich culture and natural beauty on this authentic Bali itinerary, which features five days in Ubud and a one-night stay in Sanur. Ideal for visitors eager to learn about Balinese temples and the rural way of life, highlights include a visit to the spiritual Goa Gajah Cave, attending a Barong dance performance, hiking through the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, and a trip to the iconic Uluwatu Temple. 

Your Bali trip begins with an easy transfer to the culturally rich town of Ubud, which will be your base for five nights of your weeklong adventure. Spend your first evening meandering through Ubud Art Market or touring Ubud Palace independently. Then, enlist the help of a local guide the next day for insightful visits to the holy temple of Tirta Empul, Gunung Kawi temple complex, and the sacred Goa Gajah Cave. Wake early on the morning of Day 3 for a guided trek to Mount Batur's summit, followed by a stop at Pura Besakih Hindu temple and a traditional Balinese Barong dance performance once back in Ubud. 

Continue your exploration of Ubud's surroundings the following day during a hike among the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, as well as stops by Rumah Des and the Sangeh Monkey Forest. Then, join a local chef for a cooking class and visit the temple of Taman Ayun and the iconic Tanah Lot. Bid farewell to Ubud next and transfer to Sanur, a laid-back resort town famed for its beaches, culture, and top-notch restaurants. Enjoy all three while hopping between Melasti and Geger Beach, admiring Uluwatu Temple, and attending a traditional kecak show before catching your onward flight. Learn more

Itinerary #4: Balinese Cultural Escape

Travelers seeking a slower-paced escape filled with insightful cultural moments will find a weeklong stay in Ubud the perfect fit. On this adventure, you'll unpack your bags and settle in your accommodation for a six-night stay. Then, throughout, explore rice terraces, give a helping hand on a traditional farm, attend numerous art and dance shows, and learn about sustainable seaweed farming on Nusa Lembongan. 

Bali is renowned for its welcoming culture, and the best way to experience this is to spend a week based in Ubud, the island's cultural capital. So, after arriving in Bali, you'll transfer straight there and settle in with a Campuhan Ridge Walk or indulge in a traditional massage. Spend the next day fully immersed in the local way of life while helping out on a rice farm, and reward your hard work with a traditional feast you've helped prepare. You'll then dedicate the third day of your adventure to exploring the cascading Tegalalang Rice Terrace and several significant temples. 

Your cultural exploration continues with a visit to Trunyan Village, known for its unique burial practices and natural beauty. While here, you'll interact with locals and sample traditional kopi luwak coffee. Then, take a day to dive into Ubud's art scene, starting with a tour of Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets, followed by time to shop at Ubud Art Market and attend a traditional legong dance performance at the Ubud Palace. Lastly, spend a day on the island of Nusa Lembongan, touring a seaweed farm and learning about sustainable farming practices before bidding a fond farewell to Bali. Learn more

More Great 1-Week Indonesia Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Indonesia? Check out these other one-week Indonesia itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.