Why Honeymoon in Ubud?
Located in the Balinese jungle, between valleys, forests, rivers, and spectacular rice terraces, Ubud is the island’s undisputed cultural and artistic capital. Ubud is the Ultimate Honeymoon Destination. We dare to say that a Bali honeymoon is not complete without visiting Ubud (and preferably staying a couple of nights). In addition, Ubud’s geographic location make it a great starting point for day trips to other parts of the island, especially Central and North Bali.
Despite being a jungle town, Ubud offers many luxurious honeymoon hotels and restaurants. Our favorite is the Viceroy Bali Hotel. If you are splurging on one stay in Bali, we would recommend doing it here. The pictures below might be convincing already, but you’ll be completely convinced after reading the raving reviews. On top, the Viceroy is actually not that far from downtown Ubud, making it an excellent base.
Cultural Capital of Bali
Since the success of the 2010 movie Eat Pray Love starring Julia Roberts, an adoptation of the book by Elizabeth Gilbert, many people have been introduced to Ubud. But Ubud gained fame much earlier, especially amongst international painters and artists, who have frequented the town since the early 1900s.
Many artists even became permanent resident. Ubud’s Blanco Renaissance Museum is one testament of such an artist - it highlights the works of the Spanish-American painter Antonio Blanco, who lived in Ubud from 1952 to his dead in 1999. A broad collection of traditional and contemporary works by Balinese, Indonesian and international artists can be found in the Agung Rai Museum of Art.
Walking through town, you can still feel these artistic vibes. It really is a magical place - the perfect destination for your Bali Honeymoon.
Explore Ubud
The town of Ubud has a lot to offer, from cultural sights to restaurants and (a bit of) nightlife. All of it is in walking distance of each other, as the town is relatively small.
Ubud is a great place to buy a lasting memory of your honeymoon. You will find boutique shops selling unique art all around Ubud. The large Ubud Street market (also along main street) offers a wide selection of art and memorabilia. While many stalls sell mass-produced souvenirs, you can find real hidden gems there.
The entrance of the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary can be found 1.5km south of main street, on Jalan Monkey Forest. It’s a beautiful dense forest, a great place to escape the heat, with paths taking you past a river and hidden temples. Make sure not to take any loose items with you, the monkeys will try to take them.
Branching out from the main street is Jalan Gootama, where you will find a lot of different restaurants. Our favorite stop for affordable, traditional Balinese food is Warung Biah Biah - serving many Indonesian dishes in tapas style. However we could imagine you’d prefer to experience some fine dining with your partner instead, so definitely check the list of romantic restaurant suggestions below.
Ubud is surrounded by jungle and rice terraces. There are many ways to experience this nature up-close. The most spectacular rice terraces can be found 30 minutes north of Ubud, in the town of Tegallalang. Do note this place is very touristy. Nearer to town and less crowded is Campuhan Ridge Walk. This short walk starts in Ubud (near Bridges restaurant) and takes you over a ridge that provides a spectactular view over two valleys and the jungle.
The Best Honeymoon Hotels in Ubud
Hotels in Ubud are very spectacular. The best Ubud hotels for a honeymoon are usually located further away from the town of Ubud, secluded in the jungle or between the rice fields with amazing views. However, most of them provide free shuttle services to town.
Among the most luxurious Ubud Hotels are the Viceroy Bali and the Four Seasons Sayan. Staying in either won’t be cheap, but compared to similar hotels elsewhere in the world you get amazing value for money in Bali, so if you can afford this for once, your honeymoon might be the time to consider experiencing this! Our preference between the two would be the Viceroy, as its slightly closer to Ubud town and slightly more affordable compared to the Four Seasons, while offering similar levels of service.
A great compromise between location and nature, and slightly more affordable hotel, is the Pita Maha Resort & Spa, which has amazing views over Tjampuhan valley while still being within walking distance of town. It usually sells out fast, so make sure to book it in advance!
Check the overview of the absolute best Ubud honeymoon hotels below. You can filter the list to find a hotel to your liking!
Honeymoon Activities in Ubud
Ubud might be the best place in Bali for a honeymoon. We suggest you to stay for a few nights, not just visit for a day - as there is so much to explore! It is in the middle of the Balinese jungle, between valleys, forests, rivers, and spectacular rice terraces. The most romantic place you can imagine! It is the island’s cultural and artistic center.
Want to experience all of Ubud? There’s a highly rated private tour operator that will pick you up in your hotel (even if you don’t stay in Ubud). You and your partner will experience all the highlights Ubud has to offer, without the hassle of arranging transportation!
You can explore all of these sights without a tour guide as well. Check the list below for our favorite activities!
Romantic Dining in Ubud
In Ubud, you can find everything from fine dining (Michelin-star level, even though Michelin does not operate in Indonesia) to affordable options to taste local food. You will also find a large amount of high-quality but friendly priced restaurants offering cuisines from all over the world. Here’s our favorites!
How to get to Ubud
Ubud is located in the heart of Bali. From the Denpasar airport it takes around 1 hour by car. It’s best to book your taxi in advance before you arrive (or get a transfer through your hotel) as taxi’s at the airport might charge high prices for trips to Ubud.
One more suggestion! Entering Indonesia through Bali Airport can take very long, in worst case it takes up to two hours to pass immigration. Bali Airport offers a VIP Arrival Service that allows you to jump the line.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Ubud?
Ubud is a town in the center of Bali, surrounded by jungle and ricefields. Only 1 hour away far from the airport, it's considered a more peaceful and cultural destination on the island of Bali.
How to get around in Ubud?
You can easily get a taxi everywhere, rent a bicycle or use go-jek (Indonesian Uber). Go-jek can be difficult sometimes because the local taxi businesses try to keep online taxi's out of tourist areas.
How far is Ubud from Bali Airport?
From Bali Airport, Ubud is around 1 hour drive, or 38 kilometers, away. If you stay in a hotel north of Ubud, your trip might take longer.
Is Ubud in Bali a good Honeymoon destination?
Yes, among the best honeymoon destinations in Bali. The jungle town and cultural heart of Bali is super romantic. It offers some of the most spectacular private dining overlooking jungle valleys and luxury hotels at affordable prices.
What romantic activities can we do in Ubud?
The options are endless. Walk together across Campuhan ridge walk. Visit some amazing jungle Spa's and pools. Fine Dining. Experience the local culture at Ubud Palace and the museums. And much more!
How long should we stay in Ubud?
We think it's best to stay for three nights to see and enjoy everything at a slow pace. If you want to use Ubud as a base and go on day trips from there, you'll need to stay longer.
Next Destinations
Do you prefer your honeymoon to continue more private and avoid crowds? North Bali is your answer, and in Ubud you are almost halfway already! Continue your journey to Amed for diving or Lovina for dolphin-watching adventures.
If you’re looking for a change of scenery on a different island, consider taking a boat to Nusa Penida Island. The ferry port in Sanur is around 45 minutes away from Ubud.
More travel ideas: 8 Great Bali travel itineraries for couples.
Written by Olivia & Dirk
Hi! We have put together this guide with a lot of care, based on our own experiences. As a couple, we have lived in Bali for the past 5 years, and we fell in love with the island. We have visited every corner of Bali, especially the romantic places ;-). While our articles do contain affiliate links, you can trust us to recommend only the experiences that we love.
Read more about us or let us help you organize your honeymoon for you!