Ubud is one of the easiest places in Bali to use as a base for day trips. The town sits close to rice terraces, water temples, river valleys, craft villages and scenic countryside, so you can see a lot without changing hotels every night.
This guide focuses on practical, easy Ubud day trips for first-time visitors: what to combine, who each route suits, and how to avoid overloading your day.
Quick answer
For a simple first Ubud day trip, combine Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Tirta Empul and one nearby scenic or cultural stop such as Gunung Kawi, a village viewpoint or a coffee plantation-style stop if it interests you. This gives you the classic Ubud surroundings itinerary: rice fields, temples and countryside in one manageable day.
If you want the easiest logistics, a private driver is often the most comfortable option, especially if you want to visit several stops. Scooter trips can work for confident riders, while app-based rides may be less predictable once you leave central Ubud. For a deeper transport comparison, see Getting Around Bali: Private Driver vs Scooter vs Grab (What Works Where).
Best Ubud day trips at a glance
| Day trip idea | Main stops | Best for | Pacing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tegallalang and Tirta Empul | Rice terraces, holy spring temple, countryside stops | First-time visitors | Moderate and varied |
| Temples near Tampaksiring | Tirta Empul, Gunung Kawi, temple courtyards and valley scenery | Culture and photography | Best kept unhurried |
| Waterfall and craft villages | Tegenungan-style waterfall stop, wood carving or silver villages, local viewpoints | Families and mixed groups | Flexible |
| Kintamani viewpoint day | Highland scenery, Mount Batur views, optional village or temple stops | Big landscapes | Longer day |
| Soft Ubud countryside loop | Rice fields, small temples, cafes, gentle walks | Slow travel and couples | Relaxed |
1. Tegallalang day trip: rice terraces and valley views
A Tegallalang day trip is the classic easy outing from Ubud. The area is known for layered rice terraces, green valley views and photo stops that are straightforward to combine with nearby temples or village roads.
It is popular, so the experience can feel more polished and busy than a remote rural walk. Go with realistic expectations: it is scenic and convenient, but not a hidden secret.
How to plan it
- Start with the rice terraces: Visit earlier in your day if you prefer cooler conditions and softer light.
- Add a temple: Tirta Empul is a natural next stop for many travellers.
- Keep one flexible stop: Add a viewpoint, cafe, craft stop or short walk only if you still have energy.
- Wear suitable shoes: Paths around rice fields can be uneven, muddy or slippery after rain.
Who it suits
This is one of the best Ubud day trips for first-time visitors, couples, photographers and anyone who wants a compact introduction to the rural landscape north of town.
2. Tirta Empul and the temples around Tampaksiring
Tirta Empul is one of the most visited temple stops near Ubud and is often included in day tours around the Tampaksiring area. It is known for its holy spring setting and ritual bathing pools.
As with all Balinese temples, visit respectfully. Dress modestly, expect sarong or sash requirements in many temple areas, and check current visitor rules before entering sacred sections. If you are unsure what is appropriate, follow local instructions at the entrance.
Good stops to combine with Tirta Empul
- Gunung Kawi: A historic temple complex set in a green valley area. It is a good pairing if you want more culture and atmosphere.
- Local rice-field viewpoints: Useful for breaking up the day between temple visits.
- Small village roads: A driver can often suggest scenic pauses, but agree the route before setting off.
Best for
This route suits travellers who want a more cultural Ubud surroundings itinerary rather than just viewpoints. It is also a good choice if you prefer fewer stops but more time at each place.
3. Goa Gajah and nearby cultural stops
Goa Gajah, often called the Elephant Cave, is another well-known cultural stop in the Ubud area. It can work as a shorter half-day outing or as part of a wider day trip with waterfalls, craft villages or rice-field scenery.
This is a useful option if you do not want to spend the whole day on the road. It is also a practical choice for arrival or departure days when you have only part of a day free, although luggage storage and transport should be planned in advance.
Suggested easy loop
- Start with Goa Gajah or a nearby cultural stop.
- Add a craft village or viewpoint depending on your interests.
- Finish with a relaxed lunch or coffee stop outside the busiest part of central Ubud.
4. Waterfall and craft village day trip
If your group has mixed interests, combine a waterfall stop with one or two craft villages south of Ubud. This type of day trip can include wood carving, silverwork areas, traditional market-style stops or short scenic detours.
Waterfall access in Bali often involves steps, wet paths and changing conditions, especially after rain. Wear shoes with grip, keep electronics protected and check conditions locally before committing to a walk down.
Who it suits
- Families who want variety without a full temple-focused day.
- Travellers staying several nights in Ubud who have already seen Tegallalang.
- Visitors who want souvenirs or craft stops without spending a full day shopping.
5. Kintamani and Mount Batur viewpoints
Kintamani is a longer but rewarding day trip from Ubud if you want broad volcanic scenery and views towards Mount Batur and the lake area. It is less of a quick Ubud loop and more of a full day in the highlands, so it is best for travellers who do not mind more time in a vehicle.
Weather can affect visibility in mountain areas. If views are important to you, stay flexible and ask locally about current conditions before setting off.
How to make it easier
- Do not add too many extra temple or waterfall stops on the same day.
- Bring a light layer, as highland areas can feel cooler than central Ubud.
- Plan a comfortable meal stop rather than rushing from viewpoint to viewpoint.
Easy Ubud surroundings itinerary ideas
The best Ubud day trips usually work because they are simple. Pick one main theme, then add one or two supporting stops. Trying to include every rice terrace, temple, waterfall and viewpoint in one day usually makes the trip feel rushed.
Classic first-time itinerary
- Tegallalang Rice Terrace
- Tirta Empul
- Gunung Kawi or a nearby scenic stop
- Late lunch or relaxed cafe stop before returning to Ubud
This is the strongest choice if you have only one full day for the Ubud surroundings.
Culture-focused itinerary
- Tirta Empul
- Gunung Kawi
- Goa Gajah or another nearby temple stop
- Optional village or rice-field viewpoint
Choose this if temples and Balinese culture matter more to you than waterfalls or shopping.
Relaxed scenic itinerary
- Short rice-field walk or Tegallalang viewpoint
- Unhurried countryside drive
- Lunch with a view
- Optional craft village or small temple stop
This is a good option for couples, older travellers or anyone recovering from a long flight from Europe.
Best for: which Ubud day trip should you choose?
| Travel style | Best day trip | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| First time in Bali | Tegallalang and Tirta Empul | Combines the most recognisable Ubud scenery with a major temple stop |
| Slow travellers | Soft countryside loop | Less time rushing and more time enjoying views, cafes and short walks |
| Culture lovers | Tirta Empul, Gunung Kawi and Goa Gajah | Focuses on temples, history and religious sites |
| Families | Waterfall and craft village route | Works well when different people want different types of stops |
| Landscape seekers | Kintamani viewpoint day | Offers bigger mountain and lake scenery beyond the immediate Ubud area |
How to get around on Ubud day trips
For most visitors, especially those coming from Europe and adjusting to Bali traffic, a private driver is the simplest way to join several stops in one day. You avoid route planning, parking issues and the stress of riding unfamiliar roads.
Scooters are common, but they are best left to confident, properly licensed riders who are comfortable with local traffic and changing road surfaces. App-based rides may be useful in central areas, but they are not always the easiest solution for multi-stop countryside routes.
Before you agree a route
- Confirm which stops are included and which are optional.
- Ask whether parking and waiting time are handled separately.
- Keep the plan realistic rather than adding every nearby attraction.
- Carry some cash, as smaller stops may not always suit card payment.
- Check current entrance rules and fees locally, as they can change.
Practical tips for European travellers
- Allow for jet lag: If you have just arrived from Europe, choose a shorter first day trip rather than a long mountain route.
- Start earlier if you can: Mornings are often more comfortable for walking, temple visits and rice terrace photos.
- Dress for temples: Pack a light scarf or cover-up and wear clothing that makes it easy to meet modest dress expectations.
- Prepare for humidity: Bring water, sun protection and a small towel or spare top for active stops.
- Use offline maps: Mobile signal can vary in rural or valley areas, so save your route in advance.
- Keep plans flexible in the rainy season: Short heavy showers can affect paths, waterfalls and visibility.
- Check payments: Cards are common in many tourist-facing places, but cash is still useful for parking, small warungs, local donations or minor entrance payments.
- Think about travel insurance: Make sure your policy fits the activities you plan, especially if riding a scooter or doing more adventurous walks.
What to avoid on an Ubud day trip
- Overpacking the itinerary: Three well-chosen stops usually feel better than six rushed ones.
- Ignoring temple etiquette: Respect signs, local instructions and areas closed to visitors.
- Assuming all roads are quick: Distances can look short on a map but take longer than expected depending on traffic and road conditions.
- Wearing unsuitable footwear: Rice terraces, temple steps and waterfall paths can all involve uneven ground.
- Relying only on cards: Keep small cash available for local stops.
Where to stay for easy Ubud day trips
If day trips are a priority, staying in or near Ubud is practical. Central Ubud is convenient for restaurants, shops and short transfers, while the surrounding rice-field and village areas can feel quieter but may require more arranged transport.
Before choosing accommodation, check whether vehicle access is direct. Some beautiful properties around Ubud may involve narrow lanes, steps or shuttle arrangements, which can matter if you have luggage or early day trips.
FAQ: Ubud day trips
What is the best Ubud day trip for first-time visitors?
The easiest first-time route is usually Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Tirta Empul and one nearby cultural or scenic stop. It gives you a balanced mix of rice fields, temple atmosphere and countryside without needing to leave the Ubud region for the whole day.
Can I visit Tegallalang and Tirta Empul in the same day?
Yes, many travellers combine them in one day because they sit in the same general direction from Ubud. Keep the rest of the itinerary light so you have time to enjoy both stops rather than rushing.
Do I need a private driver for Ubud day trips?
You do not always need one, but a private driver is often the easiest option for a multi-stop day trip. It is especially useful if you want to visit rice terraces, temples and viewpoints in one route. Confident scooter riders may prefer the flexibility of riding themselves, but they should check licence, insurance and road conditions carefully.
What should I wear for temples near Ubud?
Wear modest, comfortable clothing and expect sarong or sash requirements at many temples. Rules can vary by site, so follow the instructions at the entrance and check current guidelines before you visit.
Final recommendation
If you have one free day in Ubud, choose the classic rice terrace and temple route: Tegallalang, Tirta Empul and one nearby scenic stop. It is varied, practical and gives you the best introduction to the Ubud surroundings without turning the day into a checklist.