Perhaps Bali's most famous destination, Ubud is a cultural hub and a long-time favourite of artists and backpackers. Set close to the mountainous centre of the island and almost 1.5 hours from the international airport, Ubud has become synonymous with the dazzling green rice paddies and verdant jungle which surround the town, as well as its plethora of ancient temples. A spiritual hotspot offering restful spa retreats, rustic hideaways and luxurious resorts aplenty, this is a brilliant destination for guests of all ages. Kickstart your trip by checking out our list of the best places to stay in Ubud!

Ubud is fringed by almost 20,000 temples. For a sense of the area’s rich and ancient culture, admire the Pura Taman Saraswati Temple, the Elephant Cave and the beautiful Puri Saren Palace. Art aficionados will be enchanted by the Neka Art Museum, the Museum Puri Lukisan and the bustling Traditional Art Market. Central Ubud also brims with hip boutiques, cafés and eateries, fusing Balinese style with its historic hippie connections and more recent trendy appeal.

Outdoorsy adventurers can trek through the gorgeous rice paddy fields and into lush jungle, follow the paths of sacred rivers with the Campuhan Ridge walk or hike up to the Tegenungan Waterfall. Cycling tours come highly recommended, as do family visits to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. If you’re eager to soak up Ubud’s more laid-back, spiritual side, consider yoga retreats or rejuvenating spa treatments at one of the best places to stay in Ubud.

The Best Places to Stay in Ubud

For Intimate Charm

• Bambu Indah is made up of traditional Javanese thatched buildings, with open-air bathrooms and generous verandahs. There are natural pools for cooling dips, and you'll be right in amongst the rice paddies, hearing the chatter of animals at dawn and dusk. Traditional Balinese design with an eco-conscious ethos, close to Ubud. A charming choice for sustainably-minded travellers.
• Stone House Bali offers six unique rustic villas, set around an inviting swimming pool. Each of these spaces is unique, so you can hide away in the Treehouse or hole up at the Farmhouse, each decorated with antique pieces, carved wood and vintage textiles. A little family-owned B&B oozing character, this is a honeymoon favourite.
• Sandat Glamping Tents is — as the name suggests — an intimate collection of eight tented rooms. Interiors are individually designed, with carved four-poster beds, white drapes and antique mirrors. Step out onto private terraces overlooking the swimming pool. Communal spaces are cosy and inviting, and the restaurant serves delicious Balinese cuisine. A relaxed romantic retreat with a strong eco-focus.
• Blue Karma Dijiwa Ubud has fifteen spacious suites & villas overlooking the rice paddies. Each room is slightly different, but all feature pitched wooden roofs, draped mosquito nets and sink-into beanbags. Free-standing tubs are a plus, and larger villas have private pools. There's a yoga shala, restaurant and spa, too. Rustic and friendly.

For Families or Groups

• Chapung Sebali is an eclectic junglemresort with a mid-century modern feel. Party-goers can flock to the lively Jungle Fish Pool Bar or Blind Pig for cracking cocktails, whilst wellness enthusiasts can enjoy gym and yoga sessions. Two-bedroom suites are ideal for groups of friends or families. Very trendy.
• Four Seasons Sayan promises elegant rooms and suites with crisp white linens, polished wood, private plunge pools and enchanting jungle views. The kids club brims with activities, and there's an excellent cooking school and yoga studio for grown-ups. Family-friendly luxury in Sayan, just north-west of Ubud.
• The Purist Villas & Spa is a collection of villas — some with two bedrooms for families — in leafy gardens. Expect gorgeous views, contemporary decor and 24-hour butler service. There are yoga, cooking and art classes, a lovely spa, and Ubud's markets are within easy reach. Some villas also have their own pools. A boutique choice with a family-friendly feel.

For Japanese-inspired Design

• Bisma Eight is a wonderful collection of 38 rooms and 12 villas, nestled in the jungle just minutes from Ubud. Pick this place for the fusion of traditional Japanese and industrial design, including elegant screens and large glass doors revealing secluded terraces. The larger villas are great for families, and the restaurant is top-notch. Ideal for discovering Ubud!
• Hoshinoya Bali offers an exquisite fusion of architect Azuma's minimalist Japanese design and beautiful Balinese elements. The hotel's 30 pool villas feature minimalist interiors and tranquil jungle views, perfect for design buffs and couples. Don't miss the rejuvenating Balinese massages or Chef Mitsuaki Senoo's superb seasonal dishes, incorporating Balinese, Japanese and French flavours.

For Grown-Up Luxury

• COMO Shambhala Ubud is an opulent spa retreat, tucked on a private estate within thickly forested hills. Embrace the hotel's relaxed wellness ethos with Custom, Cleansing, Ayurvedic, Detox, Rejuvenation or Stress Management programmes at the serene spa, kick back in your sumptuous suite or take yoga and pilates classes. A romantic spa escape.
• Viceroy Bali has exquisite private villas with plunge pools and expansive views. Some have space for families, but we think honeymooners will adore the splendour of this resort, complete with a gorgeous spa, exceptional restaurant and a wealth of activities. A family-owned five-star gem.
• Uma Ubud is a sophisticated choice, just 20 minutes' walk from Ubud. Expect yoga mats in all 29 rooms, a beautiful garden setting, and elegant touches throughout the property, which is part of the illustrious Christina Ong hotel group. Enjoy daily yoga classes and guided morning walks through the misty paddy fields, as well as a chance to discover nearby Ubud. Tranquil luxury for grown-ups (though little ones are welcome).
• Alila Ubud offers a collection of chic, secluded suites and villas on the banks of the River Ayung. Minimalist spaces feature clean lines, and a soothing white-and-cream colour palette. Dine at open-sided Plantation, or sample the seven-course private tasting menu as a couple. Fabulous.

For Great Value

• Mathis Retreat's 21 airy rooms and bungalows are ideal for families or couples. Children will love the infinity pool, parents will appreciate the spa, and there are rafting, trekking and surfing excursions for all ages. A more affordable Ubud choice, with lashings of charm.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Most visitors arrive at Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport — which is also sometimes called Bali International or Denpasar International — a major hub for Australia and South East Asia. If you’re coming from Europe or the US, you might need to travel via Jakarta Airport. Speak to your hotel about arranging an airport transfer, or hop into one of the many airport taxis on arrival, pre-paid at a ticket booth just before the duty-free area. The airport is around 1.5 hours' drive from Ubud.
• Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Close to the equator, tropical Bali is hot and humid year-round. July - August and the Christmas holidays are the most popular time to visit, but you'll find good weather and good deals April - June and in September, outside the rainy season but without the crowds.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Bali.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Indonesia.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.