Ubud is known as the cultural heart of Bali. Although it has become more touristy and busy over the years, it always finds a way to be soothingly peaceful. A traffic jam turns into a Balinese ceremony walking through. Turn down a lane off the main road and all of a sudden you’re in a beautiful rice field. When I think of Ubud village, the first things that come to mind are monkeys, spas, yoga studios and incredible food. And although the days can get quite busy, the mornings and evenings can be much calmer, which is why we always recommend staying in Ubud rather than doing a day trip. So where to stay in Ubud? Here’s our Ubud accommodation guide to help you choose…

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Best Areas To Stay In Ubud

Wondering what area to stay in Ubud? The two main options are staying in the village itself or staying on the outskirts. In the map above, you can see Ubud Village, with the main streets being Monkey Forest Road, Jalan Hanoman and Jalan Raya Ubud.

Option 1: Staying In Ubud Village

There are lots of pros to staying in Ubud village, the main one being that most things will be within walking distance.

If it’s your first time visiting Ubud, it will make it easier to explore the streets, eat at the restaurants, attend yoga classes, go shopping and visit different spas. You will also have easy access to Ubud Monkey Forest, Ubud Market and other Ubud attractions.

However, staying in the village will be more touristy and much busier than if you stay outside of Ubud town. Having said that, we have been pleasantly surprised by how quiet and peaceful some of the places we have stayed in Ubud village have been, from small family-run hotels to luxury resorts. We have included our favourite places to stay in Ubud Village in our accommodation guide below. 

If you choose to stay in the centre of Ubud you may miss out on some of its natural beauty. You can overcome this by going on rice field walks (some of which you can walk to from Ubud village), visiting waterfalls like Tegenungan and getting a private driver to do day trips to surrounding areas.

The main streets of Ubud village are Monkey Forest Road, Jalan Hanoman, Jalan Raya Ubud, Jalan Dewisita and Jalan Gootama. Jalan Raya Pengosekan is also central, but the further south you go, the further away from the centre you get. Jalan Suweta and Jalan Sri Wedari are also very central, but long roads, so the further north you go, you get further away from the town centre. Jalan Bisma is very central but also a little quieter and more removed from the main streets, so a great area to stay. There are, of course, some smaller streets around these areas also. 

Staying In Ubud village is a great pick for people without a scooter, first-time visitors, and people who prefer to be within walking distance of the main sights and food.

Two other areas worth mentioning are Penestanan village and Nyuh Kuning village.

Nyuh Kuning village is located behind Ubud Monkey Forest. It’s a beautiful area but the street connecting it to the main town is for walking and scooters only. Depending on what area you stay in, it will be about 10 – 20 minutes walk to reach Monkey Forest Road. If you need to take car transport, it will still take 10 – 20 minutes (maybe longer pending traffic) to reach the main area as you need to go the long way around. So although it can still be a great option if this suits you, it’s worth noting as it looks closer on a map than perhaps it is in practice. 

Penestanan village is an area just outside the main area of Ubud village. It’s a popular place to stay for digital nomads and people looking for a more authentic village feel yet still close to the main area. Although you can still technically walk to Ubud centre from here, it’s probably a better choice to stay in this area if you have a scooter. 

Option 2: Staying On The Outskirts Of Ubud And Surrounding Villages

A lot of Ubud accommodation is located on the outskirts, some not too far away from the village, others perhaps 30 minutes plus away. These hotels are often surrounded by beautiful jungle or rice paddies and offer experiences to explore the surrounding nature and community. A lot of Ubud’s stunning luxury resorts are located on the outskirts of Ubud. 

So for us, the thing we love about staying on the outskirts of Ubud is definitely the natural beauty and tranquillity. 

If you don’t ride a scooter, we would recommend staying at luxury resorts rather than budget hotels outside of Ubud. You will be quite isolated, so with a luxury hotel you will have plenty of facilities, including a shuttle service to take you into Ubud village. Despite this, as you are located further away, you may not have the same time to explore Ubud itself.

But suppose you’re staying in a beautiful hotel with restaurants, a pool, a spa and other experiences. In that case, you will obviously also spend your time relaxing and enjoying the local area surrounding the hotel. If you choose to stay in the outskirts, we would definitely recommend that you choose accommodation with a good restaurant, as you will most likely be having some meals there. 

There’s no right or wrong option, just different. We’ve stayed in both the village and different areas around Ubud and have absolutely loved all experiences. You could also combine the two, and spend a couple of nights in Ubud Village, and a couple of nights in the outskirts to relax, enjoy nature and see another side of Bali. 

How Many Days Do You Need In Ubud?

Wondering how many days in Ubud is enough? We would recommend at least 3 – 4 nights, but you could also definitely stay longer.

3 to 4 nights would allow you enough time to explore Ubud Village and experience a few things to do in Ubud and the surroundings.

Walk through the beautiful rice fields or the beautiful Campuhan Ridge, visit Monkey Forest, go swimming in a waterfall, so many options. But there is also a lot more you can do in this area and it can also be a great base for some interesting day trips. So if you plan to do more, we would add more nights. On the other hand, if you want a more relaxed holiday, it’s also a beautiful place to spend some more time and enjoy nature. 

Booking Accommodation In Ubud

Booking.com

We love using Booking.com, it’s one of our favourite ways to book accommodation and they have a great range of options. 

Airbnb

Airbnb tends to have a lot of villa options for Bali, so another good option if looking to stay in a villa. Often have discounts for stays of a week or more.

Ubud Accommodation Guide

We have had the opportunity to stay in some incredible hotels in Ubud, and have visited many times from a few nights to month-long stays.

We believe where you stay can have a huge impact on your holiday, whether you stay in 5-star hotels with incredible views, boutique hotels with unforgettable designs or more affordable places to stay that are clean and friendly.

Our picks for the best places to stay are based on our favourite hotels we have stayed in, other Ubud hotels we know of and love, and hotels in the best areas to stay in Ubud. We love doing lots of research and staying up-to-date with the best hotels, we only ever include well-reviewed accommodation, and we also hear from you guys and put this all together with our own experience. So here are our favourite picks for where to stay in Ubud…

Please note: Prices were accurate at the time of this post, per night, in AUD.

Absolute Splurge: Luxury Hotels In Ubud

Mandapa, A Ritz Carlton Reserve | from $1228 AUD | Check Prices

Photo credit: Mandapa, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Mandapa, Ritz-Carlton is a stunning luxury hotel, located along the Ayung River and surrounded by nature. Such an incredible place and definitely one of the best places to stay in Ubud for a honeymoon or just an extraordinary experience. They also have some delicious restaurants here. 

Como Shambala Estate | from $895 AUD | Check Prices

Photo Credit: Como Shambala Estate

A renowned wellness resort, surrounded by nature. Come here to unwind and rebuild, with wellness programmes tailored to each guest. 

Capella Ubud Bali | from $1284 AUD | Check Prices

Photo credit: Capella

These luxury tented retreats, designed by Bill Bensley, are definitely one of the most unique places to stay in Ubud. Each tent is snugly in nature with its own saltwater pool and beautiful views. 

Four Seasons Resort Bali At Sayan | from $1060 AUD | Check Prices

Photo Credit: Four Seasons Resort Sayan

Set amongst tranquil greenery, the Four Seasons Ubud is a beautiful luxury resort. It’s located only about a 10-minute drive to the village.

Kayumanis Ubud Private Villas and Spa | from $457 AUD | Check Prices

Photo credit: Kayumanis

Kayumanis Ubud is a beautiful resort with private pool villas, surrounded by tropical forest. It’s located in nature yet still close to the village (about a 15-minute drive), the best of both worlds.

Luxury Hotels For Less

Padma Resort Ubud | from $293 AUD | Check Prices

We have such beautiful memories from our stay at Padma Resort Ubud, from the amazing infinity pool to the delicious food, and beautiful rooms. Above all else, it was actually the incredibly friendly and kind staff that made our time here so special. Padma Ubud has stunning grounds including a walking path through the surrounding jungle. Read more about our stay here. It would also be one of the best hotels in Ubud for families if you’re looking for a 5-star experience. 

Alila Ubud | from $228 AUD | Check Prices

Our stay at Alila Ubud was fantastic. We had great food, beautiful surroundings and views, an amazing infinity pool and friendly staff. We loved doing one of their Alila Experiences, where we walked through the local community and rice fields. Read more about our stay here.

COMO Uma Ubud | from $370 AUD | Check Prices

Photo Credit: Como Uma

Como Uma Ubud is a beautiful hotel located only just on the outskirts of Ubud. Although a free 5-minute shuttle is provided to Ubud centre, it is still possible to walk into the village if you’re happy too.

Royal Kamuela Villas & Suites | from $223 AUD | Check Prices

Photo credit: Royal Kamuela

We loved our stay at Royal Kamuela Villas & Suites. Although it’s located in the centre along Monkey Forest Road, it still feels like your private, quiet sanctuary being set back from the road. Royal Kamuela has a choice between suites and private pool villas. 

Komaneka at Bisma | from $214 AUD | Check Prices

Photo credit: Komaneka at Bisma

Located on Jalan Bisma, Komaneka at Bisma is in a great location, still within the village but on a quieter road. 

Komaneka at Monkey Forest | from $214 AUD | Check Prices

Photo credit: Komaneka at Monkey Forest

You will find Komaneka at Monkey Forest right in the centre of the village. Perfect if you want to spend your days exploring Ubud’s streets.

Bisma Eight | from $373 AUD | Check Prices

Photo Credit: Bisma Eight

A boutique hotel located on Jalan Bisma, which means you will still be within Ubud village, but far enough away to get some tranquillity. A beautiful hotel with great reviews.

Kamandalu Ubud | from $338 AUD | Check Prices

Photo credit: Kamandalu

Kamandalu is located on the outskirts of Ubud, surrounded by beautiful tropical greenery. It consists of rooms and villas with beautiful grounds. Read more about our stay here.

Warwick Ibah | from $267 AUD | Check Prices

Photo credit: Warwick Ibah

Warwick Ibah has a beautiful design with a traditional Balinese feel. It’s located only a 5-minute walk from Ubud town, so it’s a convenient location to explore Ubud. It’s also right next to the Campuhan Ridge Walk, making it easy to do this beautiful walk. 

The Ubud Village Resort and Spa | from $263 AUD | Check Prices

Photo Credit: The Ubud Village

The Ubud Village Resort is located just on the edge of the village, either a bit of a walk or a free shuttle into the centre. Here they have beautiful private pool villas, a spa, an onsite restaurant, and the main pool overlooks rice fields. The perfect option if you’re wondering if it’s better to stay in a villa or resort, here you get the benefits of both. 

Five Elements Retreat Bali | from $321 AUD | Check Prices

Photo credit: Five Elements

An eco-conscious wellness retreat located alongside the Ayung River. Enjoy the raw luxury feel, yoga, traditional Balinese treatments, and their plant-based restaurant. 

Best Hotels In Ubud For Under $200/night

Alaya Resort Ubud | from $160 AUD | Check Prices

Photo Credit: Alaya

A great location in the centre of Ubud Village, whilst still managing to capture some rice field views.

Ubud Village Hotel | from $109 | Check Prices

Photo credit: Ubud Village Hotel

Sister property to The Ubud Village Resort & Spa, this hotel has a great design and a super central location on Monkey Forest Road. 

The Garcia Ubud Hotel & Resort | from $130 | Check Prices

Photo credit: The Garcia

Here you can choose from a range of nicely designed rooms and one and two-bedroom pool villas. It’s located a little further out of Ubud, so you will need to use their shuttle service to pop into the village (or your own transport). 

Purana Suite Ubud | from $116 AUD | Check Prices

Photo credit: Purana Suite

Located on the edge of Ubud village, so a good option if you don’t have your own transport and are happy to walk 10 – 40 minutes to reach some areas. There is a pool, yoga, restaurant and spa onsite. 

Puri Sebali Resort | from $163 | Check Prices

Photo credit: Puri Sebali

Located on the outskirts, Puri Sebali Resort is a nicely designed hotel with a 20-minute shuttle to Ubud.

Sankara Resort Ubud | from $141 | Check Prices

Photo credit: The Sankara

Sankara Resort is located on the outskirts of Ubud but also provides a free shuttle into the centre.

Hotels Under $100/night

Titik Dua | from $90 AUD | Check Prices

Photo credit: Titik Dua

A beautifully designed hotel 4-Star hotel just outside of Ubud. Best to stay here if you have your own transport as it’s a little too far to walk everywhere. The outdoor pool area looks incredibly relaxing, and all the rooms have air conditioning. 

Tebesaya Cottage | from $36 | Check Prices

Photo Credit: Tebesaya Cottage Ubud

Tebesaya Cottage offers great value for money, with a great location in Ubud village but on a quieter street. Here you will find private rooms with air-conditioning and private bathrooms. There is also an outdoor swimming pool. 

Artotel Haniman Ubud | from $71 AUD | Check Prices

Photo credit: Artotel

Central location in Ubud village with a clean, modern design. This hotel has an outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant and air conditioning.

We will be continually updating this post with any new places we stay and love, to make sure we are recommending the best Ubud Accommodation. 

Read More: 

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Where is your pick for the best places to stay in Ubud? Let us know if you have any questions in the comments below…

This article was first published on September 30th, 2016, and last updated in 2023.