How to Spend One Day in Ubud, Bali (Just in Town)

Ubud is often called the heart of Bali — and whether you stay for a week or only have one day in Ubud, it welcomes you with a sensory rush: the sweet smell of incense drifting from tiny offerings on the sidewalks, the steady buzz of scooters weaving through narrow streets, and the lush green backdrop that never seems too far away.

It’s one of the best bases on the island if you want to explore without constantly repacking, but it’s also perfect for a slow travel day where everything unfolds at its own pace.

Within a walkable radius, you can move from the royal palace to the lively market, sip a smoothie bowl or a strong latte, take a long wander through town, and even step into a forest full of mischievous monkeys.

And when your feet need a break, a spa or a Balinese massage is always just around the corner.

If you only have one day in Ubud, you can soak up everything that makes this place special. Here’s how we spent a lovely day exploring Ubud.

Disclosure: *This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

NO TIME TO READ THE ARTICLE NOW? PIN IT

Breakfast in Ubud: Smoothie Bowls and Rice Field Views

The morning we headed into Ubud, the air was still cool and a bit hazy, the kind of light mist that hangs over the rice fields after sunrise. We were staying just outside town in a quiet villa surrounded by palm trees, with the occasional rooster reminding us we were definitely in Bali.

After a short scooter ride into Ubud, the energy shifted instantly: scooters humming past bright temple gates, the scent of incense lifting from fresh morning offerings, and cafés just beginning to open their shutters for the day.

For breakfast, we chose Pukako by Paddyfield, and we couldn’t have been happier with the decision. The view alone — wide open rice fields glowing in the morning light — was worth the stop.

We ordered an omelet and a smoothie bowl, simple yet perfectly done; the kind of meal that tastes even better when you’re sitting in the warm Bali breeze, watching farmers tend to their fields. It was the ideal start to our one day in Ubud.

If you’re looking for more breakfast spots in town, here are a few great options:

Seniman Coffee Studio — for excellent specialty coffee

Kafe Ubud — for healthy bowls and plant-based options

Clear Café — for beautiful design and fresh, nourishing dishes.

Paddy Field Walk — A Must During One Day in Ubud

No day in Ubud feels complete without a walk through the rice fields. The town is surrounded by lush green trails, and early morning is the best time to enjoy them — when the air is still cool, the light is soft, and the paths are quiet except for birdsong and the occasional farmer at work.

There are several beautiful routes, each offering a slightly different slice of Ubud life. 

Campuhan Ridge Walk is the most famous, especially at sunrise, but the vegetation has grown tall recently, giving parts of the trail a narrower, more jungle-like feel. It’s still a lovely walk, but don’t expect the wide-open ridge views you see in older photos.

Another great option is the Sweet Orange Trail, which winds through peaceful paddy fields and eventually leads right back into the center of town. 

Kajeng Rice Field Walk is also worth exploring, a mix of rice terraces, small cafés, photo spots, and quiet stretches of countryside.

For our morning, we chose the Sari Organic Walk. At first, the scooters passing along the narrow path were a bit annoying, but the farther we walked, the quieter it became. Soon it was just us, the fields, the breeze, and the occasional warung or art stall tucked among the palms. There are plenty of places to stop for fresh juice, coconut, or a bite to eat — and even little shops selling local art and crafts.

What we loved most is that you don’t have to follow one fixed trail. In Ubud, the rice fields weave around the town like a green maze, so you can create your own route and just wander. Whatever path you choose, make sure to start early — before the heat hits.

Explore Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung)

After a pleasant walk through the paddy fields, we arrived at Ubud Palace. Despite coming in the afternoon, it didn’t feel crowded at all, which made exploring the palace even more enjoyable.

There’s not a huge amount to do inside — mostly you can stroll, take photos, and appreciate the artistry. Every corner is filled with detail, from floral carvings to mythological motifs, offering a quiet glimpse into Ubud’s rich history and culture.

We wandered through the courtyards, admired the intricately carved doors, and took in the traditional pavilions at our own pace.

If time allows during your one day in Ubud, this stop is definitely worth including — it’s a calm, beautiful pause in the heart of town.

For those who want a deeper dive, guided tours of Ubud Palace are available. A local guide can explain the history, the royal family, and the meaning behind the carvings, making the visit even more enriching. 

👉 Book a guided Ubud Palace tour here — it’s a great way to get insider stories and context you might otherwise miss.

Wander Through Ubud Traditional Art Market

Just a short stroll from the palace, the Ubud Traditional Art Market is a colorful, bustling hub where the town’s creativity comes alive. The market is filled with stalls selling a wide range of items, from textiles and rattan bags to paintings, wood carvings, and local handicrafts.

I went mainly for the incense sticks — something about Bali’s scents is on another level compared to anywhere else I’ve traveled in Asia. The aromas of frangipani, sandalwood, and other blends drift from every corner, making the whole market feel like a fragrant labyrinth.

Bargaining here is part of the experience — and it’s meant to be fun. It comes with laughter, stories, and smiles, not stress. The market can be crowded, and the stall owners are enthusiastic (sometimes a little too enthusiastic), but that’s part of its charm.

Despite the chaos, it’s worth exploring: you can pick up a few souvenirs and enjoy the lively energy.

Tip: Take your time, go with a smile, and remember that the joy of the market is as much in the interaction as in the shopping.

Coffee or Lunch Break

Not originally planning to visit, but while strolling the Ubud Art Market, we somehow ended up on a narrow street that led to Balistar Coffee — a hidden gem tucked just off the main paths. It felt like a happy accident, the kind that makes one day in Ubud feel full of little surprises.

Bali is famous for Luwak Coffee, made using beans eaten and excreted by the civet cat. At Balistar, there’s even a civet on display near the counter, which is a little surreal.

I’m not usually a fan of this type of tourism, but I was more interested in the coffee itself — and the Arabica brew did not disappoint. It was exactly what we needed to break from the midday heat.

Sitting there, sipping coffee in the lovely terrace, we felt our energy return for the next stage of our day.

If you’re not in the mood for coffee, this is also a good time for lunch. Ubud has plenty of options, from cafés with rice field views to local warungs:

Warung Biah Biah – Perfect for traditional Balinese dishes and local flavors.

Atman Kafe – Enjoy wholesome bowls and smoothies while soaking in serene rice field views.

Watercress Ubud – Western comfort food with healthy options if you want something familiar.

Tip: Ubud can get hot and humid by midday, so take the chance to rest in the shade, hydrate, and recharge before your afternoon adventures.

Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

We weren’t planning to visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, but it’s one of Ubud’s most popular attractions, so it felt worth mentioning. Even if you decide to skip it, it’s helpful to know what makes it famous: lush greenery, ancient temples, and hundreds of free-roaming long-tailed macaques that have become emblematic of Ubud.

A typical visit lasts around 45–60 minutes, which is plenty of time to explore the trails, take photos, and immerse yourself in the jungle-like atmosphere.

Safety tips: The monkeys are clever and bold. Don’t touch them, and hide shiny objects like sunglasses, phones, and jewelry. It’s common for visitors to have things snatched, and you can get scratches if you’re not careful. Basically, you have to stay vigilant the entire time.

Many people find the experience amusing and unforgettable — the monkeys’ antics are entertaining, and the forest itself is serene and beautiful. For those looking for wildlife encounters, it’s an easy stop for a one day in Ubud.

Alternative Activities (If You Skip the Monkey Forest)

For those who prefer to skip the monkeys, Ubud has plenty of ways to spend a relaxed afternoon. If you’re curating your one day in Ubud itinerary, consider:

Yoga class – A chance to stretch, relax, and reconnect in a serene setting at a yoga experience.

Visit small art museums or galleries – Ubud is an art hub, and you never know what hidden treasures you might find.

Jewelry-making class – Try your hand at traditional crafts! 👉  Make your own silver jewelry from scratch under the guidance of an experienced silversmith, with all materials and tools provided.

Cooking class in Ubud – 👉 Book a cooking class and enjoy shopping at a local market and cooking with a Balinese chef.

We chose to explore the town on a scooter, discovering quiet streets, sampling street food, and admiring small, tucked-away temples that we might have missed. It felt like uncovering little secrets of Ubud.

After wandering, we treated ourselves to a so much-needed Balinese massage — the ultimate way to rest tired feet and shoulders.

Ending Your One Day in Ubud

By the time the sun starts going down, Ubud just feels different. You can smell incense in the air, mixed with food cooking somewhere nearby. Scooters still roll past, but everything slows a bit, and the light turns soft in that way that makes you want to linger.

After spending the day walking around, it makes sense why people love this place so much. Even with just one day here, Ubud gets under your skin — calm, colorful, and full of those small moments you don’t really plan for, but end up remembering.

If your timing allows, consider catching a traditional dance performance at Ubud Palace. Elaborately costumed dancers tell ancient stories through graceful movement, accompanied by the enchanting rhythms of gamelan music. Even a short performance adds a magical touch to your stroll through the town.

Take a moment to pause, sip a cold drink, and simply watch the world go by. Ubud isn’t about rushing; it’s about savoring each sight, sound, and smell — letting the town unfold at its own pace. One day in Ubud may only scratch the surface, but it’s enough to leave a lasting impression.

Staying more than one day in Ubud?

If your Ubud adventure continues beyond this one day, I’ve created a complete guide to the best things to do in Ubud and the top day tours to book from here — perfect for building out a longer itinerary.

👉 10 Most Unique Places To Visit From Ubud

Quick Tips for One Day in Ubud

To make the most of your one day in Ubud, here are some handy tips to keep in mind as you wander around:

Start early – Beat the heat and enjoy the rice field walks when the air is cool and the trails are peaceful.

Wear comfortable shoes – Essential for wandering through the market, palace, and paddy paths.

Carry cash – Many small stalls, cafés, and scooters only accept cash; it’s also handy for tips.

Stay hydrated – Ubud can get humid, especially around midday.

Respect the monkeys – If visiting the Monkey Forest, don’t touch them and hide shiny objects.

Getting around – Most attractions are walkable, but occasional scooter taxis (ojek) are useful for longer distances.

Dress code reminders for temples – Cover shoulders and knees; a sarong is often required, sometimes provided on-site.

Don’t step on the offerings – Watch out for canang sari, small daily arrangements of flowers, rice, and incense on sidewalks, temple steps, and shop entrances.

Getting Around Ubud

Ubud is surprisingly easy to navigate, especially if you’re staying close to the center. Most of the spots in this one day in Ubud itinerary are within walking distance of each other.

Here’s how to move around:

Walking

The easiest way to explore the town center. Sidewalks can be uneven, but everything feels close enough to wander at your own pace.

Scooter or scooter taxi (Gojek / Grab)

If you’re comfortable on a scooter, it’s the fastest way to get around, especially if you’re staying just outside town like we did.

Not driving yourself? Order a scooter taxi — it’s cheap, quick, and perfect for short hops.

Car taxis or private drivers

Useful if you’re traveling in a group or planning a day trip after your one day in Ubud. Grab/Gojek taxis are reliable. Private drivers can be booked easily through accommodations or online.

Tip: Traffic in Ubud is busiest from late morning to late afternoon, so try to do your longer walks early in the day.

Where to Stay in Ubud

Choosing the right area can significantly impact your entire experience, especially if you have only one day in Ubud. Here are some of the best areas to base yourself:

Central Ubud (near the Palace & Market)

Perfect if you want to walk everywhere. You’ll be steps from cafés, temples, shops, and the main sights — ideal for a one-day itinerary.

Jalan Bisma

A quieter but still walkable area with lush rice field views, small cafés, and peaceful corners.

Penestanan

An artistic, bohemian neighborhood just outside the center. Great for yoga studios, healthy cafés, and a calmer vibe.

Sayan

A little farther out, it is known for jungle views and beautiful villas. Best if you don’t mind taking a scooter or taxi into town.

For a luxurious stay in Ubud, Chapung Sebali Resort ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ offers stunning jungle views, infinity pools, and top-notch service.

If you’re looking for a balance of comfort and charm, Ananda Ubud Resort ⭐⭐⭐⭐ provides cozy rooms, serene surroundings, and easy access to Ubud’s cultural highlights.

For budget-friendly travelers, Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel ⭐⭐⭐ delivers clean, comfortable accommodations with a social, welcoming vibe right in the heart of the city.

Where We Stayed: Pondok Kayun

We stayed a bit outside the center at Pondok Kayun and it turned out to be a peaceful little retreat. Surrounded by greenery and away from the noise of traffic, it was perfect for relaxing mornings and quiet evenings.

It did mean taking a scooter into town, but the ride was short and easy — and we loved returning to the calmness after a busy day in Ubud. If you prefer tranquil surroundings over being in the middle of the action, staying in this area is a lovely option.

👉 Check prices for accommodation in Ubud here.

Final Thoughts on How to Spend One Day in Ubud

One day in Ubud may not be enough to see everything, but it’s the perfect amount of time to feel the town’s energy — the culture, the food, the greenery, and the calm.

If you let the day flow naturally, you’ll discover that Ubud’s magic lies not just in its sights, but in its atmosphere.

Feel free to craft your own itinerary, stay curious, and enjoy every step.

Looking for more Bali inspiration ⇓

Top Things to Do in Amed, Bali: Your Complete Travel Guide

A Guide to Visiting Lempuyang Temple (Gate of Heaven) in Bali

How to Visit Jatiluwih Rice Terraces on Your Own

10 Unforgettable Things To Do In Uluwatu, Bali

10 Most Unique Places To Visit From Ubud