Ask any Singaporean about their go-to weekend getaway and chances are you’ll hear places like Johor Bahru, Bangkok, or Bali. After all, with only a few short days to spare, these nearby destinations are perfect for scratching that travel itch without taking too much time off work.
So if Bali is next on your travel radar and it happens to be your first time there, this 3D2N Bali itinerary is what you need to experience as much as the island offers.
The current exchange rate is IDR10,000 = ~S$0.84 as of 23rd January 2025.
For first-timers, it’s best to stay in popular areas like Seminyak, Ubud, Canggu, Uluwatu, Jimbaran, Sanur, or Nusa Dua.
Affordable hostels are everywhere and a great option if you plan on travelling solo. Or, treat yourself and your loved ones to one of the best new hotels in Bali if you don’t mind spending a bit more. And if you’re ready to splurge, check out the Private Jet Villa – it’s so atas, you’ll feel like royalty.
| Area | Best for |
| Seminyak |
|
| Ubud |
|
| Canggu |
|
| Uluwatu |
|
| Jimbaran |
|
| Sanur |
|
| Nusa Dua |
|
There are a few ways to get around Bali, with options to suit your travel style:
Nope. With one of the world’s most powerful passports, Singaporeans can enjoy visa-free travel to Bali for up to 30 days. You’ll also get to breeze through immigration at the airport using the auto gates – just make sure to register beforehand.
Sun, sand, and sea. 3 words that define the Bali experience. That’s why the best time to visit Bali is between April and October when the weather is hot and dry. Think beach days, mountain hikes, and surfing lessons without the worry of rain dampening your spirits.
Don’t forget to save some room in your luggage for Bali’s iconic souvenirs, including Balinese coffee, Batik fabric, rattan bags, and natural beauty products like coconut oil and handmade body scrubs.
Image credit: Monkey Forest Ubud
Kickstart your Bali adventure with a visit to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where over 1,260 long-tailed macaques roam freely across 12.5 hectares of greenery. It’s the best place to shake off post-flight grogginess and get hyped for the day ahead.
Image credit: Monkey Forest Ubud
The sanctuary’s monkey residents are divided into 10 groups and each troop has its own hangout spot and dynamic. You’ll see monkeys of all ages – tiny infants clinging to their mums, playful juveniles, and imposing adult males.
Tip: avoid making direct eye contact with the monkeys, and keep food and drinks out of sight unless you want them snatching your belongings and snacks. Spoiler alert: don’t do it.
Don’t just pay attention to the playful primates, as the forest is also home to sacred temples and statues tucked within its greenery. You’ll encounter the place of worship dedicated to God Shiva and the Statue of the Goddess Sri. Some of the towering trees here are also considered sacred and play an important role in different Balinese spiritual practices.
Image credit: Eatbook
With only 3 days to explore Bali’s food scene and a whole list of must-eat, you might be wondering how one decides which to try. Well, one thing’s for sure – you have to try the nasi campur at Warung Makan Bu Rus. Translating to “mixed rice,” this dish is far from the cai fan you’re used to in Singapore, boasting bold Balinese spices that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Go for crowd favourites like the Nasi Campur Ayam (IDR40,000) which comes with a delicious mix of vegetables, egg, spicy tempeh, peanuts, minced chicken skewer, and curry chicken. Or, get the Bebek Goreng (IDR90,000), where the fried duck is the star of the show.
Unlike other waterfalls in Bali, the Tegenungan Waterfall is one of the easiest to access and is just a 30-minute drive from your lunch spot. The only challenge is that you’ll need to first tackle over a hundred steps down to reach it, which might sound intimidating, but you’ll be there enjoying the view before you know it. Do note that there is an IDR20,000 entrance fee.
Take a refreshing dip in the water and when you’re tired, there are shops and restaurants where you can relax and grab a snack before making your way back up.
Tip: use the washroom at the carpark before heading down so you save yourself the trouble of climbing back up when nature calls.
Ceking Rice Terrace is the spot for those IG-worthy pics. Skip the hour-long trek through the rice terraces and head straight to Tis Cafe, located right by the terraces to enjoy a bird’s-eye view while snacking on small bites before dinner.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, rent the swing at IDR150,000 for an adrenaline rush and epic snaps. For just IDR200,000, you can also rent the swing together with the iconic long, flowy dress that’s featured in all the best photos you see online.
For something more relaxing, take a dip in the cafe’s pool overlooking the rice terraces. It’s yours to enjoy for 4 hours with a minimum spend of IDR400,000++ per person.
After a jam-packed day of exploring Bali, there’s no better way to unwind than with a comforting meal at Milk & Madu Ubud. The cafe is known for its welcoming and cosy ambience that’s perfect for family, friends, and couples.
Don’t miss out on the 2-for-1 woodfired pizza deal from 4pm, every Tuesday and Sunday. Take your pick from classics like Margherita (from IDR115,000) or go for gourmet options like The Rusty Anchor (from IDR145,000), which comes with chilli garlic prawns, calamari, and anchovies that any seafood lover will appreciate.
Image credit: @ciao1010__ & @0908_jjlin via Instagram
Set your alarms early because no maiden Bali trip is complete without a visit to Mount Batur. Fitness junkies can embark on a hike at 4am with a guide to the main summit that stands at 1,717m, while those who wish to sit back and enjoy the ride up can opt for the Jeep tour which starts at 5am, bringing you to 1,350m above sea level.
Once you’ve arrived, you’ll be greeted by the gorgeous sunrise, with plenty of photo opportunities – and if you’re on the Jeep, you can even snap pics from the top of the vehicle. For the best of both worlds, go for the half Jeep, half hike tour, which includes a short 45-minute trek up to the summit.
Image credit: Klook
Most packages typically include a simple breakfast so you won’t have to worry about rumbling tummies. This Mount Batur Jeep Sunrise Day Tour takes you to a sunrise point where you can enjoy breakfast with a stunning view. Afterwards, explore the black lava from the comfort of your Jeep, and with a photographer on hand, you’ll have plenty of incredible shots to remember the experience.
Image credit: Mari Beach Club
Beach clubs are a dime a dozen in Bali, but what makes Mari Beach Club so special is its ‘Little Bali’ concept. The space combines architecture inspired by Bali’s landscapes, complemented by a range of seating options like cabanas, bean bags, and bar counters. Its signature Dome entrance is a bamboo structure resembling Gunung Agung aka Mount Agung, that’s practically made for your IG feed.
Take a breather and recharge over a drink or two, and don’t miss out on the food. Choose from a wide selection, including Fish Tacos (IDR165,000), Salmon Poke Bowl (IDR185,000), and Dendeng Balado (IDR195,000).
Next, make your way to Uluwatu Temple, one of Bali’s most iconic spots. Perched high on a clifftop, the temple offers views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. But it’s more than just a beautiful sight – it’s also rich in culture and history as one of Bali’s 6 main temples believed to protect the island.
According to ancient inscriptions, Uluwatu Temple was founded by Mpu Kuturan, a monk from the Majapahit Kingdom who also established other notable temples like Sakenan. Another key figure tied to Uluwatu is Dang Hyang Nirartha, a revered Hindu priest who ended his spiritual journey here.
Remember to dress modestly – cover your shoulders, arms, and legs when visiting the temple as a sign of respect. There’s also an entrance fee of IDR30,000 per adult and IDR20,000 per child aged 6-12.
Image credit: Klook
It’s also a good idea to book a guided tour or driver as it can be tricky to get a Grab or Gojek back after sunset. This Bali Full Day Customized Private Tour saves you the hassle of finding a ride from one place to another. Make sure to choose the South Bali Custom Tour option to explore Uluwatu Temple and other nearby attractions.
Image credit: Klook
After visiting Uluwatu Temple, stick around for the Kecak Fire and Dance Show. This cultural performance created in the 1930s is famous for its storytelling of Ramayana, with Balinese dancers narrating the epic tale. Protagonists Rama and Sita take centre stage, surrounded by a circle of performers who create the Kecak chant and dance pattern.
It’s also set against the impressive backdrop of the sunset. The first show is your best bet for catching the flames and dance moves during the golden hour.
XO Burger Bali has nailed the combo: mouthwatering burgers and a cosy movie experience. Set in a chill, romantic vibe, it’s the ideal place to unwind after a day of adventures. Don’t forget to check their Instagram for updates on movie schedules and screening times so you can plan your visit. You can expect a variety of films to suit all tastes, from comedies and action-packed blockbusters to family-friendly animated classics.
Try the XO Ultimate Burger (IDR68,000), stacked with both beef and chicken patties, or the Creamy Mushroom Burger (from IDR48,000), a chef’s recommendation. Sides like fries are sold separately, but this also means you’ll have the freedom to choose from options like curly fries or potato waffle fries, rather than the usual shoestring variety.
It’s the last day of your Bali adventure, so there’s no better time to tick off one of the island’s famed dishes: babi guling, aka suckling pig. Head to Warung Babi Guling Putra Celagi, where you’ll get juicy pork, flavourful spices, and crispy pork skin all in one portion. Prices start from an affordable IDR15,000 – your chance to indulge in more than one portion if you’re a big eater and explore other varieties on the menu.
This spot is popular not just with tourists but also with locals, all eager to grab a plate for lunch. Plus, they close by 2pm, so embrace FOMO and get there early.
Then spend the afternoon exploring Canggu, known for its hipster cafes, boutique shops, and massage parlours.
Start at Love Anchor Canggu, an outdoor market where you can pick up handcrafted souvenirs, jewellery, and chic clothing. Don’t be afraid to bargain as sellers usually mark up the prices here – who knows, you might just score a deal.
Then, a quick 4-minute walk will lead you to Gigi Susu, a popular cafe known for its buttery croissants and aromatic coffee to refuel before your next activity. There’s also all-day breakfast, hearty mains like Chicken Parma, salad and smoothie bowls if healthy eating is your jam, and desserts for sweet endings.
For the ultimate Bali send-off, treat yourself to a pampering session at Beach House Massage by Tonic where you’ll be greeted by a relaxing and aesthetic ambience upon walking in. You’ll get to experience authentic Balinese techniques, blending medium to strong pressure to ease away stubborn tension from all your hiking, surfing, and watersport adventures. If massages aren’t your thing, you can opt for a body scrub, facial, or a manicure and pedicure to leave feeling completely refreshed. Prices start from IDR200,000.
If you can squeeze in just one more beach stop, let it be Canggu Beach, known for its unique black sand. Stroll along the shore, dip your toes in the waves, or simply relax and soak in the views. And if time permits, stay to catch the final sunset of your trip to bid farewell to Bali before heading to the airport for your night flight home.
Before you get too excited about your Bali escapade, here’s another pro tip: register for Bali Airport’s auto gates to save yourself from long immigration queues. It’s a simple process and you’ll breeze through the gates in a jiffy.
If you’re visiting in March, check the calendar for Nyepi Day. This is Bali’s Day of Silence, where the island comes to a standstill for self-reflection, meditation, and spiritual cleansing. Roads will be empty and businesses will close. Everyone is expected to stay indoors, keep quiet, and refrain from using lights or electronics. It’s a unique experience but worth noting so you don’t end up with any surprises.
Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek to skip the guesswork and potential overcharging. These apps are super handy for getting around Bali.
Bali belly is practically a rite of passage, but you can try to avoid it by steering clear of tap water – don’t use it to brush your teeth either. Thankfully, the government has mandated that ice cubes come from safe-to-drink water suppliers, so your cocktails should be safe.
Cover your shoulders, arms, and legs to show respect. Some temples may provide sarongs for visitors to wear but consider bringing your own to avoid queues or rental fees.
Here’s a little tongue-in-cheek warning – the Bali curse. Legend has it that couples who visit Bali before marriage might not last. While it’s mostly superstitious fun, you might want to think twice before booking that romantic getaway. Or not. Who’s to say a little adventure can’t strengthen your bond?
Bali is just a short flight away, making it the ideal weekend getaway when you need a quick but memorable escape. So pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and get ready to make the most of every moment in Bali.
More places to visit in Indonesia:
Cover image adapted from: Klook, Mari Beach Club
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