Bali is a dream destination, but planning a bali itinerary can quickly turn into a nightmare. The distances look short on a map, but the traffic? It's brutal. A "20-minute" drive can easily turn into 90 minutes of sweating in the heat.
Don't make the mistake of renting a scooter if you aren't an expert rider. The roads are chaotic, navigation is confusing, and getting lost is practically guaranteed.
The secret to a hassle-free travel experience? Hiring a reliable Bali driver. For roughly the cost of a nice dinner back home, you get a clean, air-conditioned car, a local guide who knows every shortcut, and total freedom to customize your day.
As locals with over 10 years of experience, we've crafted the perfect bali itinerary 7 days and 10 days plans to help you see the real Bali — safely and comfortably.
🚗 Hire a Private Driver & Save Time
Don't waste fit your holiday in traffic. Book a driver for 10 hours of unlimited exploration.
Check Driver AvailabilityFrom IDR 550k ($35 USD) per day • Petrol & Parking Included
Phase 1: The South & Culture (Days 1-3)
Day 1: Arrival & Sunset at Uluwatu
Land at Ngurah Rai Airport. Ignore the aggressive taxi touts at the gate — it's overwhelming after a flight. We recommend pre-booking your airport transfer so a friendly face is waiting with your name sign.
Head to your hotel to freshen up. For your first evening, keep it simple. Drive south to Uluwatu Temple. Watch the famous Kecak Fire Dance at sunset. The cliff views are breathtaking.
Insider Tip: Arrive at Uluwatu by 4:30 PM. The ticket line gets crazy by 5:00 PM. Ask your driver to drop you near the ticket booth so you don't have to walk far.
Day 2: Beach Hopping & Seafood
Bali's south coast has the best white sand beaches. Start at Melasti Beach (clean water, stunning cliffs). Then move to Padang Padang.
For dinner, head to Jimbaran Bay for a seafood feast on the sand.
Why you need a driver: Finding parking at these beaches is a nightmare for cars and dangerous for scooters on steep hills. Your driver drops you at the entrance and waits.
Day 3: Day Trip to Ubud
A day trip to Ubud is non-negotiable. It's the cultural heart of Bali.
- Morning: Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. (Watch your sunglasses!)
- Lunch: Bebek Tepi Sawah (Crispy Duck) for a classic Balinese meal.
- Afternoon: Tegalalang Rice Terrace. Walk down into the valley for photos.
- Stop: Tegenungan Waterfall on the way back.
Insider Tip: Traffic getting into Ubud is notoriously bad. A skilled driver knows the back roads through the villages to save you 30+ minutes.
Phase 2: Adventure & Nature (Days 4-7)
Day 4: Volcanoes & Holy Temples
This is a long driving day, perfect for a customizable trip in an AC car. Head north to Kintamani to see Mount Batur. The air is cool and fresh.
On the way back, stop at Tirta Empul (Holy Water Temple). You can participate in the purification ritual (Melukat).
Day 5: Nusa Penida Island Day Tour
Take a fast boat from Sanur to Nusa Penida. This island is wild and beautiful.
- Kelingking Beach: The T-Rex shaped cliff.
- Angel's Billabong & Broken Beach: Natural infinity pools.
- Crystal Bay: Snorkeling.
⚠ WARNING: Do NOT rent a scooter on Nusa Penida. The roads are broken, narrow, and full of gravel. Tourists crash there every single day. Book a tour package that includes a car and driver on the island.
Day 6: The Waterfall Chaser
Bali's waterfalls are magical.
- Tibumana: Easy walk, perfect for swimming.
- Kanto Lampo: famous for the "insta-famous" rock climbing photo.
- Tukad Cepung: A waterfall inside a cave.
You will be wet and tired. Having a private car with dry towels and AC waiting for you is a lifesaver.
Day 7: Relax or Depart
Spend your last day shopping in Seminyak or getting a Balinese massage. If you have a late flight, hire a driver for a "Check-out Tour" — store your luggage in the car, visit a few last spots, and get dropped off at the airport stress-free.
Extended: Bali Itinerary 10 Days
Lucky enough to have a bali itinerary 10 days? Add these gems:
- Day 8: East Bali (Lempuyang "Gates of Heaven" & Tirta Gangga). Go extremely early (leave hotel at 5 AM) to beat the queue.
- Day 9: Bedugul (Ulun Danu Beratan Temple) & Handara Gate.
- Day 10: Beach Club Day (Finns or Potato Head) to unwind.
Comparison: Scooter vs. Private Driver
Many first-timers ask: "Should I rent a bike?" Here is the honest truth about Bali transport guide options.
| Feature | Scooter Rental 🛵 | Private Driver 🚗 |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | High Risk (Accidents common) | 100% Safe & Insured |
| Comfort | Hot, dusty, wet if raining | Cool AC, Reclining Seats |
| Navigation | Check phone constantly | Relax, Driver knows the way |
| Police Fines | Frequent target for tourists | Zero issues |
| Cost | Cheap ($10/day) | Affordable ($35/day for group) |
Essential Bali Travel Tips
- Currency: IDR (Indonesian Rupiah). 1 USD - 16,000 IDR.
- Sim Card: Buy a Telkomsel tourist SIM at the airport or ask your driver to stop at a local shop (cheaper).
- Water: Do NOT drink tap water. Your private driver will usually provide bottled water.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Start Your Bali Adventure Today
Ready to turn this bali itinerary 7 days plan into reality? Don't stress about maps, scooters, or heat.
Book a reliable Bali driver with Bali Nusa Transport. We specialize in making your trip smooth, safe, and unforgettable. Our drivers speak English, know the island inside out, and treat you like family.
