It has been a while since I last wrote about a trip. I do feel a little nostalgic looking out my window to a grey and rainy Paris. That is why, with a little envy in my heart, I decided to go back to writing the Bali travel guide about the often referred to as the “Island of the Gods,” and the Gili Trawangan Islands, renowned for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant nightlife, are two of Indonesia’s most iconic travel destinations.
Together, they offer the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan a magical trip to Bali and Gili Trawangan, including how to get there, what to see, where to stay, and the best activities to experience. Whether you’re trekking through ancient temples or relaxing on a beach, Bali and its surrounding islands will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Day 1: Arrival in Bali
Upon arrival at Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali, head to Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, known for its rich history, spirituality, and natural beauty. There you can visit the Ubud Traditional Art Market and explore this bustling local market for handcrafted Balinese art, textiles, and souvenirs. Another important stop is the Ubud Monkey Forest, where you can wander through this sacred forest, home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques. Something that you can not miss is the Tegalalang Rice Terrace. Visit the stunning, stepped rice paddies at Tegalalang for a picturesque view and a taste of Bali’s agricultural heritage. End your day with a visit to a local coffee plantation – I went to Kumulilir Coffee Plantation, where you can sample various types of coffee, including the famous Kopi Luwak.
During my stay in Ubud, I choose the Hotel Alam Wayang Ubud. The sense of peace and relaxation you can from this hotel is amazing. I highly recommend it. Another tip: driving around the Island of Bali is extremely stressful and chaotic, the traffic we usually experience in Europe is nothing! Move around in a scooter – but be extremely careful – or use the app Grab, the local Uber, which costs a few euros.
Day 2: Explore Ubud and Temples
Bali is well known for its temple. Even if it’s part of Indonesia it is not Muslim. The Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is located on Lake Beratan and it is one of Bali’s most iconic and photogenic landmarks. Surrounded by mist and lush mountains, it offers a magical setting. In the area don’t miss Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where these expansive terraces provide a perfect example of Bali’s Subak irrigation system. Nearby explore the Gitgit Waterfalls, a serene stop in Bali’s north, this waterfall is ideal for a relaxing nature walk amidst tropical scenery. Another temple to explore is the Tirta Empul Temple, which is famous for its sacred spring water, where locals and visitors come to participate in ritual purification. Finally, don’t leave out the Tridatu Sacred Temple, a lesser-known but spiritually significant temple, that provides an authentic Balinese religious experience.
Day 3: East Bali and Beaches
Bali is full of temples, yes. The Gunung Kawi Temple is an ancient temple complex featuring shrines carved into cliffs, dedicated to Bali’s past royalty. Right next to it, there is the Penglipuran Village, a traditional Balinese village known for its well-preserved culture, architecture, and customs. Take a moment to visit the Mother Temple of Besakih, located on the slopes of Mount Agung, Besakih is the most important, largest, and holiest temple in Bali. It offers breathtaking views and insights into Balinese Hinduism. In the night check in at Hotel Genggong, a serene resort in the peaceful town of Candidasa.
Day 4: Temples and East Bali Exploration
From Candidasa, you will have the possibility to easily visit the Lempuyang Temple (Gate of Heaven), one of Bali’s most photogenic spots, its famous gates offer a stunning view of Mount Agung. From there move down to the Tirta Gangga Water Palace, the ancient royal palace with beautiful water gardens, statues, and stepping stones across koi ponds: To perfectly end the day, relax on the beaches around Candidasa, or explore some of Bali’s quieter coastal gems like White Sand Beach (also known as Virgin Beach).
Day 5: Beach Day – Nusa Penida
Take a day trip to Nusa Penida, home to some of the most breathtaking beaches and cliffs in Bali. One of the most known is Kelingking Beach with its T-Rex-shaped cliff formation and turquoise waters. Move down to Diamond Beach, a secluded beach with stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters. Finally, Broken Beach, a beautiful natural rock arch overlooking the ocean.
Day 6: Transfer to Gili Trawangan
Leave the east coast of Bali and transfer to Gili Trawangan. You can catch a fast boat from Padang Bai or Serangan and take the big fast boat from Eka Jaya. I swear it’s amazing and nothing remotely like the ones you see on TikTok, so no need to worry. Check-in at Royal Regantris Trawangan, a beachfront resort on Gili Trawangan, that offers luxury and laid-back island life. Take a sunset bike ride around the island (Gili Trawangan has no cars!).
Day 7: Gili Trawangan – Snorkeling and Diving
This is finally your time to relax. Spend the day exploring the underwater wonders of Gili Trawangan. Whether you’re a snorkeler or a scuba diver, the island offers some of the best marine life in Indonesia. You can choose among many snorkeling tours where you take a boat tour to explore coral gardens and swim with sea turtles. Of course, if you are trained, you can also scuba dive as Gili Trawangan is home to several renowned dive sites, including Shark Point and Meno Wall.
Day 8: Transfer to Kuta
After spending three days in the islands, to conclude my trip to Indonesia, I took the morning fast boat back to Bali and transferred to Kuta, which is famous for its surfing culture, vibrant nightlife, and shopping. I checked in at Bintang Bali Resort, a beachfront hotel in Kuta’s heart. From this city you can visit one of Bali’s most famous temples, Tanah Lot sits on a rock formation just off the coast and is especially stunning at sunset.
I must admit this island and this country took my heart. if needed you will feel a sense of peace throughout your stay and as soon as you will go back home a great sense of nostalgia will invade you. You will want to go back there as soon as possible.
