We spent two weeks in Bali last February, savoring the island’s exotic landscapes, tropical climate, spiritual energy, and natural beauty. Dylan and I quickly fell for the warm hospitality, flavorful food, vibrant culture, and the lush scenery that surrounds every town and village.
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There was another big reason we loved Bali:
It’s remarkably affordable for visitors.
Bali gave us incredible value. During our two weeks there we enjoyed three-course dinners for about $7 and stayed in comfortable bungalows for roughly $35 a night.
Below I share why Bali is such a popular destination and how you can experience a stylish, budget-friendly vacation. I also include a detailed cost breakdown from our trip so you’ll know what to expect.
Read on to learn how two weeks in Bali and the nearby Indonesian islands can feel like a luxury escape without breaking the bank.
Two Weeks In Bali Travel Guide
- Two Weeks In Bali Travel Guide
- Background on Bali & Balinese culture
- When to visit Bali
- Traveling to Bali
- How to get around in Bali
- Where to go in Bali
- Ubud
- Where to stay in Ubud
- Activities in Ubud
- Ubud
- Nusa Islands
- Where to stay in Nusa
- Activities in Nusa
- Total costs for Bali (11 days)
- Final Costs
- Price Comparisons: Bali & Other Popular Travel Spots
- Bali: More Information
- Bali: Final Thoughts
Background on Bali & Balinese culture
Indonesia is made up of thousands of volcanic islands, and Bali stands out as one of the most visited. Interest in Bali surged after Elizabeth Gilbert’s book Eat, Pray, Love and the later film adaptation, which introduced many travelers to the island’s cultural richness.
Tourism is central to Bali’s economy, and the people here are open and welcoming. We encountered friendly locals everywhere we went. Even small gestures—like a vendor offering a taxi—were met with warm politeness.
Most Balinese practice Hinduism, and daily offerings called canang sari are common: small woven trays with rice, flowers, and food placed on streets and doorways. It’s important to step around these offerings out of respect. You may also encounter parades and temple ceremonies throughout the island, which are meaningful cultural experiences to witness.
When visiting Bali, be mindful of local customs and show respect—this goes a long way in creating positive interactions and understanding the culture more deeply.
When to visit Bali
Bali is hot and tropical year-round, situated only about eight degrees south of the equator. The climate is consistently warm, with two primary seasons: the dry season (May to September) and the rainy season (October to April).
We visited in February during the rainy season. Days were hot and humid with occasional heavy afternoon storms that typically passed within an hour. Those showers rarely interrupted our plans—we often relaxed in a café and waited them out.
High season runs from July to August and around late December to early January. Traveling in February meant fewer crowds and an easier time booking activities and accommodations.
Traveling to Bali
We flew from Sydney to Ngurah Rai Airport in Denpasar. The six-hour flight would normally cost around $456, but we paid nothing for our seats.
$0
We used travel hacking—redeeming points from a Chase Sapphire Reserve signup bonus—to book the flight at no out-of-pocket cost. Flights are often the biggest expense, so using points can dramatically reduce your trip cost and transform a budget vacation into a luxe-feeling getaway.
From the airport we headed north to Ubud and later traveled east to the Nusa Islands.
How to get around in Bali
Driving in Bali can be hectic and is generally not recommended for visitors unfamiliar with local traffic. Instead, rely on local drivers, taxis, or hosts who often provide transport. Renting a motorbike is an option for experienced riders, but accidents are common and licenses and road conditions vary—research carefully before deciding.
We walked extensively in Ubud and on the Nusa Islands, and occasionally rode on the back of motorbikes provided by our hosts. Our accommodations also supplied airport pick-ups and ferry transfers, which made travel easier and more affordable.
Where to go in Bali
Ubud
Ubud is the cultural center of Bali, rich with traditional arts, temples, and local life. We loved spending seven days there to explore the area and soak in the atmosphere.
Where to stay in Ubud
We stayed in a traditional Balinese compound hosted by a local family. Our private room included air conditioning, an ensuite bathroom, a queen bed, and a porch. The location was central, the grounds were well cared for, and breakfast was included—an excellent value at about $20 per night.
Mornings included small Hindu offerings around the compound and fresh-cooked breakfasts on the patio. The hosts were welcoming and helpful, and their family restaurant served tasty local dishes right outside the door.
Note: If you have dietary restrictions, always confirm ingredients before eating. My gluten-free needs were accommodated, but individual experiences may vary.
If that place is fully booked, Ubud has many other affordable Airbnb and guesthouse options offering comfort and cultural immersion for very little money.
Activities in Ubud
Sunrise Hike at Mount Batur
We did an organized sunrise hike to Mount Batur. The sunrise was breathtaking, though the trail can be crowded and you’ll often hike in a single file line. Our small-group tour included pickup, drop-off, breakfast, and a guide who explained the landscape.
Cost: 350,000 rupiah/person (about $25 USD)
Traditional Balinese Dance Performance
Nightly traditional dance performances at many temples are captivating—intricate costumes, live music, and dramatic storytelling make for an unforgettable evening.
Cost: 100,000 rupiah/person (about $7 USD)
Ubud Monkey Forest
The Monkey Forest is a sanctuary for about 700 wild long-tailed macaques. Watching them interact is fascinating, but visitors must be cautious: the monkeys will seek food, grab loose items like sunglasses, and can bite if provoked. Follow the posted guidelines to have a safe visit.
Cost: 50,000 rupiah/person (about $3.50 USD)
Campuhan Ridge Walk
This scenic ridge walk passes rice paddies, cafes, and studios, offering peaceful hillside views. It’s best early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat and occasional rain.
Cost: Free
Shop the Local Markets
Ubud’s markets are full of art, textiles, clothing, and souvenirs. Bargaining is common—shop around and you can find unique items at affordable prices.
Cost: Free to browse; purchases vary
Nusa Islands
For beaches, snorkeling, and laid-back island life, visit the Nusa Islands—a short 30–40 minute ferry ride from Sanur. The three main islands are Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, and Nusa Penida. Lembongan and Ceningan are small and easily connected by a bridge; Penida is larger and offers dramatic coastal scenery.
We spent three full days on Nusa Lembongan and explored nearby spots with day trips.
Where to stay in Nusa
Pondok Lembongan
We stayed at a family-run guesthouse with friendly hosts, a private bungalow with AC, and included breakfast for about $35 per night. The hosts helped arrange transport, motorbike rides, and snorkeling trips, making our stay very convenient.
Activities in Nusa
Blue Lagoon
The water at Blue Lagoon on Nusa Ceningan is strikingly clear and blue. It’s a picturesque spot for exploring the rocks and watching cliff divers nearby.
Cost: Free
Mahana Point & Cliff Jump
Mahana Point offers cliff-jumping for thrill-seekers and a lovely beach below. Watching others jump can be entertaining if you prefer to stay on solid ground.
Cost: Beach free; cliff jump fees around 25,000–50,000 rupiah (~$1–$3 USD)
Beach Bars on Nusa Ceningan
Beach bars here serve simple plates, drinks, and often feature hammocks, swings, and live music—perfect for a leisurely afternoon or sunset drink.
Cost: Expect slightly higher tourist prices; two drinks and snacks ran about $10 USD for us
Snorkeling Trip around Nusa Penida
We took a private snorkeling trip to multiple sites around Nusa Penida, saw colorful fish and coves, and visited Manta Bay (though no manta rays appeared that day). The trip included a boat and guide for the day.
Cost for two people: 500,000 rupiah (about $35 USD)
Spa Treatment
Spa treatments in Bali range from simple massages to elaborate packages. We chose a two-hour couples package that included a flower foot bath, a body scrub, and a full-body massage—an indulgent but affordable way to relax.
Cost: 850,000 rupiah (about $60 USD for two, plus tip)
Sunset at Devil’s Tear
Devil’s Tear on Nusa Ceningan is a dramatic spot for sunset—powerful waves, sea life sightings, and unforgettable views. We watched dolphins and sea turtles while the sun set over the ocean.
Cost: Free
Total costs for Bali (11 days)
Flights
Sydney to Denpasar (Virgin Airways)
Actual Cost: $462
We paid: $0
We used reward points to cover the flight cost, saving a significant portion of our overall trip budget.
Transportation
Actual Cost: $102
We paid: $102
This covered airport transfers, ferry fares, and a few taxis.
Lodging
Actual Cost: $293
We paid: $263
We stayed in an Airbnb in Ubud, a guesthouse on Nusa, and a hotel in Denpasar before leaving for Thailand.
Food
Actual Cost: $210
We paid: $210
We ate mostly out and used a gluten-free card when needed to explain dietary restrictions to vendors and restaurants.
Activities/Excursions
Actual Cost: $170
We paid: $170
Costs included guided hikes, temple performances, entry fees, snorkeling, and spa treatments.
Miscellaneous
Actual Cost: $50
We paid: $50
Small extras like toiletries, laundry, and market purchases fall into this category.
Final Costs
Actual Cost: $1,287 USD
What we paid: $792 USD
Savings: almost $500
Price Comparisons: Bali & Other Popular Travel Spots
Even without travel hacking, Bali offers outstanding value. Many accommodations include extras like airport transfers, which cuts transportation costs. Walking and local transport make exploring Ubud especially economical.
For context, here are cheap one-week estimates for couples (excluding airfare) in other destinations: London around $959, Hawaii about $1,387, and Italy roughly $1,933. By contrast, a week in Bali can be as low as $311 for a couple—allowing comfortable lodging, inexpensive meals, and activities without sacrificing quality.
Expect $2 smoothies, $7 dinners, bustling local markets, and ample opportunities to enjoy luxury experiences at low cost.
Bali: More Information
Bali is just the beginning—Indonesia has countless islands and regions to explore. If you plan to stay longer, consider visiting other nearby islands to experience more of the country’s diversity and charm.
There are many resources and guides that help you choose where to go in Bali and how to plan your itinerary based on interests like beaches, culture, or outdoor adventures.
Bali: Final Thoughts
Looking back on our two weeks in Bali, small everyday details bring the trip to mind: morning doves outside the windows, flip-flops left on doorsteps, the scent of garlic frying at local warungs, and plumeria blossoms tucked behind ears. Those moments made the trip unforgettable.
Bali rose quickly on our list of favorite destinations. If you’re seeking sunshine, relaxation, natural beauty, and generous hospitality, book a trip—you’ll return refreshed and inspired by the island’s charm.
Have you ever been to Bali?
Let me know in the comments!