What is the best area to stay in Ubud?
By Megan Matheson. May 07, 2024
Set amid rice paddies and pockets of jungle, Ubud is the artistic and cultural heartland of Bali. The atmosphere is unique in that it offers a blend of traditional Balinese culture (including Hindu temples, local markets, and skilled artisans) and western comforts, replete with restaurants, shops and hotels. A centre for healing, the word Ubud derives from the Balinese word ‘Ubad’, which means medicine, and here there is no shortage of wellness practitioners, Yoga students and spiritual seekers. The easy-going town truly has something for everybody, from nature and art lovers, to families and those looking for a peaceful getaway.
If you are visiting Ubud for the first time and want to get a real feel for the town, staying in the city centre would offer the most immersive experience of Ubud life, with many key attractions in walking distance. The vibrant main roads - Jalan Raya Ubud, Jalan Hanoman and Jalan Monkey Forest - are bursting with cafes, fashion boutiques and spas, and the adjoining side streets are equally full of life. Whether you are a family, a couple or a solo traveller, there are plenty of hotels and guesthouses to suit every preference and budget.
If you are interested in where to stay in Ubud, you may also be interested in where to stay in Kuta or where to stay in Bali.
City Centre, the best area to stay in Ubud
First-Time / Sightseeing / Shopping / Nightlife / Dining / Backpackers
Ubud centre is a great option for those who enjoy an upbeat lifestyle and love to meet new people from all walks of life. It’s a melting pot of visitors and locals of all ages, and this is reflected in the array of nightlife activities on offer, including live music, cocktail bars, nightclubs and romantic spaces.
Home to some of the town’s most treasured attractions, Ubud centre is particularly renowned for its Traditional Art Market, Sacred Monkey Forest and Yoga Barn - famous Yoga and wellness hub of Bali. In addition, the most popular traditional Balinese dances are performed every evening at the Royal Palace, which can be pin-pointed as the town’s nucleus.
These tourist gems are all accessible on foot for those staying in the area, and there are plenty of accommodation spots just off the main roads - centrally located, yet tucked away enough to escape the hustle and bustle after a long day.
Other neighbourhoods to stay in Ubud
Penestanan
Young Adults / Couples / Wellness / Hiking / Museums / Art
Penestanan village, while an excellent choice for young adults and couples, is by no means off limits to families and older individuals. In recent years, it has become a hip expat area, while maintaining the authentic flavour of local culture, with Balinese people going about their day-to-day business - making temple offerings, holding Hindu ceremonies, and selling fruit.
Like much of Ubud, jungle ravines and rice paddies can be found minutes away from the main road, and beautiful walks meander through the village. There is a good selection of stylish villas, healthy food eateries, and Yoga studios, and many of Ubud’s art museums are a short drive away.
Only a 7-minute drive from the centre (depending on traffic), Penestanan provides convenient access to some really prominent nature spots outside Ubud, most notably the Campuhan Ridge Walk, a scenic trek above a green valley of jungle - not to be missed for hikers, sunset chasers and photography lovers!
Andong
Honeymoon / Couples / Nature / Culture / Photography
Situated just east of Ubud centre, Andong is the perfect spot for those on their honeymoon and couples looking for a romantic retreat. The area is home to many luxurious hotels and villas in paradisiacal settings - picture infinity pools overlooking lush jungle valleys and mountain gorges.
A 10-minute drive from central Ubud, Andong is an excellent base for visitors seeking a balance of town life and private retreat. If you are interested in exploring the famous Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Andong would be the most convenient place to stay. Nearby, there are some famous photo opportunities, including the Bali Swing and Bali Love Sign - legendary places for tourists to capture Bali memories.
The main road, Jalan Raya Andong, which merges into Jalan Raya Tegallalang, is a haven of arts and crafts; including beautifully locally-carved furniture which many interior designers decorate hotels and homes with. Artists and designers will appreciate the local artisanry that characterises this long stretch of road.
Sayan
Honeymoon / Couples / Resorts / Family / Nature / Older Adults
Sayan is one of Ubud’s hidden jewels, and like Andong, provides a sanctuary for honeymoon retreats as well as family getaways. Around a 15-minute drive from the city centre, the area is known for its resort hotels and premium suites.
Home to Bali’s famous Four Seasons Resort, which appears to be floating in the tree tops, Sayan provides breathtaking views of the Agung River and surrounding rolling hills. Renowned sunset spot, Sayan Point, is a restaurant and pool bar that offers a panoramic view over the scenic landscape - one of many favourite nestled-away venues for nature lovers.
Not just for couples, many of Sayan’s paradise resorts and restaurants are kid-friendly, and there is much opportunity around for family fun, including cooking classes and pottery studios. The area is an excellent location for those who are keen to dip their toes in Ubud’s cultural scene, while remaining in the tranquil embrace of nature.
Taman
Family / With Kids / Couples / Nature / Relaxation
Taman is a beautiful area for guests of all walks of life - from families and couples, to friend groups and solo travellers. If you want to be close to Ubud centre, yet really get a feeling for local life and lush countryside, Taman takes you out into the open air with roads stretching north of Ubud - Jalan Sri Wedari, Jalan Suweta and Jalan Tirta Tawar.
There are many deluxe resorts, including the renowned Udaya Resort, Suara Alam Hotel and Om Ham Retreat, which offers stunning rice field views and a real slice of serenity. If you are on a lower budget, there is no shortage of private villas and guesthouses providing all the clean and comfortable spaces and green jungle views.
Enlivened by local and western food spots, Taman is a great area for those planning to stay a little longer in Ubud, and a place where it is easy to settle in and feel right at home.
Pengosekan
Foodies / Nightlife / Music / Yoga / Active
Located in Ubud’s southern district, Pengosekan Village will appeal to city personalities, fitness enthusiasts and active families. The main road, Jalan Raya Pengosekan, has a lively atmosphere, and it is peppered with eateries and live music spots. Close by is Titi Batu Gym and Club - a community gem for adults and kids that also offers workshops, parties and a beautiful pool space.
The Yoga Barn and Ubud Yoga Centre are also nearby, providing an array of classes and hangout spaces. Artists will appreciate the painter studios that line the main road; many of the village residents have an exceptional talent for painting.
The area is busy, being one of the exit points out of Ubud, but it is also a prime location for taking a day trip to the surrounding waterfalls or to Sanur Beach - a 50-minute drive away. Although full of activity, Pengosekan hosts numerous hotels just off the main road, where visitors can find beautiful sanctuary spaces.
Our recommended hotels in Ubud
Use the interactive map to navigate through our recommended hotels in UbudNote: Hotel prices can change daily due to promotions, seasons, and demand. Our $ - $$$$ scale shows the overall cost range rather than exact prices.
