Destinations
Bali for First-Timers: Where to Stay, What to Skip
By Tomáš Dvořák · Published 2025-10-08
Ubud, Canggu or Nusa Penida? A first-timer's map of the island, honest and simple.
Split your stay. Bali rewards two-base trips: culture and jungle in Ubud, beach and cafés in Canggu or Uluwatu. Three hours apart, completely different worlds.
Ubud is not a quiet village anymore — the centre is busy. Stay five minutes out, on the edge of the rice fields, and it's magic again.
Nusa Penida deserves one full day: Kelingking, Angel's Billabong, Broken Beach. Book a small-group tour; the roads are rough and self-driving is stressful.
Skip: the Bali Swing tourist traps, sunset at Tanah Lot with a thousand tripods, and anything with 'insta-famous' in the description.
Money: ATMs charge around €4 per withdrawal. Take out larger amounts less often, and carry cash for warungs and temples.
Last updated: 2025-10-08
Travel requirements and regulations can change. Always verify current information with the relevant government authority, embassy, airline or official provider before travelling.