Backpacking to Bali? No doubt you’ve begun planning your Bali adventure, so let us help by introducing the 3 best hostels in Ubud.
Prepare yourself, as you’re about to discover crystal clear swimming pools, on-site bars and spacious dorm rooms. All within some of the top hostels in Bali!
Our favorite hostels in Ubud are:
- Pillow Inn - best for Solo Travelers
- Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel - best for Couples
- Sunshine Vintage House - best for Cozy Hostel
- Extra: Arya Wellness - female only - best for Female Solo Travelers
Money-saving tip: Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com. They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com and others with 1 click.
1. Pillow Inn
2. Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel
3. Sunshine Vintage House
Backpacking Ubud is affordable and your are surrounded by gorgeous rain forests and rice paddies.
Ubud is located in the center of Bali Island. It stands for rice paddies, yogis, yoga retreats, instagrammy shots and healthy life style.
It’s the all time destination for solo travellers, couples and backpackers.
This guide is perfect for YOU, when you…
- are tired of crappy hostels!
- want a social Hostel to actually meet people
- are happy to spend $1 to $2 more for a much better experience
We even included 14 things you should know before traveling to Bali – so you won’t feel disappointed or underwhelmed.
Looking for 5 Star Hostels? Sadly we don’t yet have one here. Yet in nearby Canggu you can discover the stunning Kos One Hostel. Make sure you read our guide to best hostels Canggu – all compared.
Here are all the best hostels in Bali.
Planning on having some yoga in Ubud? We also have a detailed guide about the best yoga retreats in Ubud.
Quick Introduction to Ubud Hostels
Average price for a bed: A bed in a dorm can be as cheap as 4.50€ up to 12€ per night. A private room in a hostel in Ubud starts from 12€ up to 50€ per night.
Hostels in Ubud and Bali can be quite cheap when choosing dorms. This is a rough average to give you an idea. Prices always depend on season and holidays.
Please always check exact rates on Hostelworld.com or Booking.com.
Check-In and Check Out: The average check-in time is from 15:00 (3pm), while the Check Out time is before 11:00 (11am). Hostels usually offer luggage storage in case you arrive earlier or leave later. Make sure you check if luggage storage is free or if there is an extra cost.
Where to stay in Ubud – accommodation types: Same as in many other countries, accommodations listed as hostels are sometimes not really “hostels“. It seems to be a trend to call homestays “hostel”. Truth is, naming a place “hostel” does not make it one. Pay attention when you try to choose a place to stay.
Here’s our guide to what is a hostel?
Yet, since you are here already, this guide will help you!
Quality of Hostels: You can find super cool, instagrammy hostels all around Ubud, Canggu and Bali. The quality is quite high when chosen wisely. Most hostels in this part of the world are relatively small.
Party Hostels: Ubud is not really about partying. If you are in Bali to party hard, then better stay in the area of Canggu. There you’ll find a bunch of surf and party hostels in Canggu. Jump to the party hostel section.
🎁 New to Hostels? Read our guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. We especially recommend reading:
- How to book hostels? (and websites to save $)
- 23 clever items: the hostel packing list to download
- How does the Hostelworld App work exactly? Our Advanced Guide
The 3 Best Hostels in Ubud are …
Let’s jump right into the coolest hostels in Ubud.
- Pillow Inn – best for Solo Travelers
- Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel – best for Couples
- Sunshine Vintage House – best for Cozy Hostel
- Extra: Arya Wellness - female only - best for Female Solo Travelers
These are our favorite hostels in Ubud. We want to make your life even easier, so we put all accommodations on a map for you. We even added our own tips for favorite restaurants, things to see, and more.
1. Pillow Inn
2. Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel
3. Sunshine Vintage House
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
| 🦸 Solo Traveler: | Pillow Inn |
| 🙎♀️ best for Female Solo Traveler: | Arya Wellness - female only |
| 🥳 Party Hostel: | Pillow Inn |
| 👩❤️👨 Couple Hostel: | Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel |
| 👨👩👦 Family Hostel: | Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel |
| 👩💻 For Digital Nomads: | The Onion Collective |
| 🧘 Cozy Hostel: | Sunshine Vintage House |
1. Pillow Inn (rooftop pool, bar + daily yoga)
Pillow Inn is a one of a kind hostel in Ubud, designed with a new generation of travellers in mind.
It’s the small details that usually deliver big wins, yet Pillow Inn offers both small and big. We so enjoyed their roof top terrace with its view, and obviously their big swimming pool.
We love the Pillow Inn Motto:
We are not selling the beds! We are selling the vibe, the atmosphere, you are part of our Pillow Gang family. This is your home far away from home!
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
More about the beds then. Each pod comes with a curtain, safety box, mirror and reading lamp. There’s even a big locker underneath the bed so everything is tucked away nicely.
Female solo travellers should definitely opt for the 12-bed female only option. All dorms come with an en-suite!
Read: Why Female Dorms? 7 Pros and 3 Cons
What about those social vibes? Consider the…
- Rooftop bar + 2 swimming pools
- Free daily Yoga every day
- Bla Bla Bla restaurant on-site
- Movie & Pizza evenings
- Beer Pong competitions
- Pool games
There’s also a garden with reading corner and books, hammock and rooftop bar where you can enjoy palm tree views and beautiful sunsets.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner is available in the restaurant, and all guests receive a 10% discount on the food menu.
If you’re keen to get out, the local nightlife, restaurants and attractions are all within walking distanc from our favorite Ubud hostel. It’s only a 15 min walk to the famous Monkey forest and Campuhan Ridge walk, the palace, market, galleries and many other attractions.
Note: ask about airport pick ups and scooter hire.
Pillow Inn is the coolest hostel Ubud for:
- Female solo travellers
- Social butterflies
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
2. Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel
Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel is in the heart of Ubud, minutes from the main shops, restaurants and world famous Yoga Barn. Many even list this one as their #1 top hostel.
If you’re looking to relax and socialise, head on down to the large garden which hosts a fantastic pool and lounge area.
There are free yoga classes, cinema room and free healthy breakfast in the Ubudian cafe. Puri Garden is highly recommend for solo travellers that enjoy a social atmosphere, big beds and helpful staff.
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Puri Garden Hostel Ubud Bali has a cinema room with free movies and a spacious common area centered around the pool and garden.
The hostel interior is modern and well designed. You will experience one of a kind Ubud accommodation. It is a combination of luxury and style. Lovely place to chill, chat and recoup in Ubud.
Hostel Highlights:
- Swimming pool
- Airport shuttle (very useful!)
- Outdoor pool
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Very good breakfast
Location: Located just 2 minutes from The Yoga Barn. Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel is just a 5 minutes walk from the famous from Monkey Forest and 15 minutes to the Market.
A great choice for
- Couples
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
3. Sunshine Vintage House
Sunshine Vintage House is a charming and unique hostel that offers a delightful vintage concept. Situated in the heart of Ubud but away from the bustling city center, it is located in the serene Padang Tegal Village, within a traditional Balinese house compound. This tranquil setting provides guests with a cool and beautiful place to relax and unwind.
When you stay at Sunshine Vintage House, you will be welcomed as a member of their family, immersing you in the authentic Balinese way of living. The hostel adopts a vintage house style while ensuring modern comforts. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, hot water shower, an ensuite bathroom, and free Wi-Fi. Additional amenities include complimentary water refills, tea and coffee, and a delicious complimentary breakfast to start your day on a high note.
One of the highlights of staying at Sunshine Vintage House is the array of activities they provide. Whether you’re interested in sharing tours, cycling tours, rafting, or trekking, the hostel has something for everyone. They can also assist with arranging pick-ups, drop-offs, and tickets for fast boats if you wish to explore other islands. For those who prefer to explore the island at their own pace, the friendly staff can help you rent a bicycle or motorbike.
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Sunshine Vintage House offers more than just comfortable accommodations; it promises an unforgettable stay. The hostel’s prime location allows guests to explore the nearby attractions, including the Monkey Forest Ubud, Ubud Palace, and Saraswati Temple. If you wish to venture further, the Ngurah Rai International Airport is approximately 34 kilometers away, and Sunshine Vintage House provides a convenient paid airport shuttle service.
With its ideal location, vintage charm, and warm hospitality, Sunshine Vintage House is the perfect choice for travelers seeking a unique and memorable experience in Ubud. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a group of friends, or a couple looking for a romantic getaway, this hostel offers a serene retreat where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of Bali and create cherished memories.
Location: Sunshine Vintage House is conveniently located within a short walk of the vibrant Ubud center, taking only 10 minutes to reach. Additionally, it’s a mere 3-minute stroll to the renowned Yoga Barn and a large supermarket. For an authentic cultural experience, you can also visit nearby venues showcasing traditional Balinese dances like the Kecak dance and Barong dance.
This is one of the best hostels in Ubud for
- Restful experience
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
4. Arya Wellness - female only
Arya Wellness - female only is the perfect balance for a healthy, eco-friendly and social stay with a beautiful chic and boho decor style.
I make it sound like you could not mingle here…no, no, this is also a social hostel, fantastic to meet people. In fact, many travellers spend here more nights than in the other ones. You can really bond with your fellow travelers, explore Ubud, share Yoga sessions, you name it.
If you are a slow-traveler like me, you will love this place.
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
What about the location? Arya is located in the heart of Ubud, only a few steps from the main attractions, shops and restaurants. Here you would not even need to rent a scooter. Yet, it still helps to explore the area.
Arya Wellness Retreat is the best choice for:
- Female solo-travellers
- Yoga Lover
- Everyone looking for a retreat and explore Ubud slowly
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Ubud for Solo Travellers
As a solo traveller you’ll be looking for a combination of hostel amenities, no doubt.
Perhaps you’re after a bit of privacy, or the possibility of arranged activities and events. Solo backpackers are awesome, so it’s only fair we find you awesome hostels to stay in.
Again, our favorites are:
- Arya Wellness Retreat – female solo traveler
- Pillow Inn – perfect for solo travellers
And we’ve found one more great hostel in Ubud for solo travellers – besides the ones above!
Wayan’s Family Hostel
Coming in close behind is the more traditional Balinese style hostel named Wayan’s Family Hostel.
Forget taxi’s – you’ll be slap bang in the middle of buzzing Ubud, minutes from the major sights. This is a cosy place, accommodating a maximum of 22 guests at one time.
There’s a range of bed sizes including king-size, double and single, and each room has an en-suite.
It’s ideal for solo travellers looking for some quiet time.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld
What about the cheapest hostels in Ubud?
Of course, there are always cheap hostels. But how do you actually find them? When you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you want to save every dollar, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Ubud.
- Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Ubud
- add your dates
- Order the listings by price
Simple as that.
Hostelz.com is a price comparison site for hostels. They list every single one in the world and tells you exactly which website is cheaper to use.
Another smart Tip: Check what is actually included, and what is excluded. Take a closer look at the location, too. A further location might mean more costs in transport.
Party Hostels in Ubud, Bali
So you want hostels in Ubud for partying?
Truth be told: Ubud is not a party destination.
The Ubud town and area is known as a center for traditional crafts, dances and culture. We would state, Ubud is the cultural hub of Bali. The surrounding rainforest and the famous terraced rice paddies, dotted with Hindu temples and shrines, are what makes this scenery so famous.
We were not kidding when we said, Ubud is the Instagram part of Bali.
That being said, for having a crazy Bali Island Party, head over to Canggu or Gili Trawangan, Lombok and stay there in a cool place.
Make sure you read our guide to best hostels in Canggu. Here we compare party hostels, surf places and even a 5 Star Hostel.
Here you can find also crazy bars to go wild.
That does not mean however that Ubud is boring and yoga only. For meeting cool people and have an amazing time, stay at Pillow Inn.
You can always meet people at the pool and head out with your fellow hostel mates to explore the amazing scenery around. The hostel also organizes pool parties!
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
More Ubud hostels worth a mention
Are you tired of us talking all about hostel hostel hostel? Well, that is our job! We make sure that you only have the best hostel to stay in while in Ubud, the one that you will consider to call a certified backpackers house.
We have provided our favorite hostels but if you are looking for more, here it is!
- Kuna Bali
- Green Paddy Hostel & Villa
- Sunshine Vintage House
- Ubud Rice Field House
- Puji Hostel Ubud
- The Onion Collective
Just remember that we always recommend staying at hostels instead of Ubud Bali hotels because it is more affordable. Ubud hotels also have a good reputation but Ubud Bali hostels are worth a try!
Kuna Bali
Update: Arya Monkey Forest is now called Kuna Bali. Before that is was named Arya Hostel Ubud. Do not get confused with the names please. It is still the same hostel with same location. We keep this guide as up to date as we can.
Kuna Bali is a little oasis hostel hidden in a very peaceful and quiet street just behind Monkey Forest Sanctuary.
Staff go extra mile with their service. Guests appreciate the small details like remembering their names and what they do. Cool, right?
The place is spotless and very clean. Swimming pool is also a great place to meet other fellow travelers.
Hostel Highlights:
- Yoga Sessions!
- 24 Hour Reception and Security
- Bicycle Hire
- Housekeeping – it is so clean!
- Speedy WiFi
- Laundry Facilities
- Luggage Storage
- Tours and Travel Desk you should consult for their fun tours
What about the location?
Very central! Remember, Ubud is quite spread out. The center itself is quite small though.
You are a 15 minutes walk away from the beautiful Ubud Palace and a 10 minutes bike ride from Monkey Forest Ubud. Please check our handmade map for the locations.
You can rent a bike as well as motorbike at Kuna Bali, too. Highlight recommended. But, please wear a helmet and drive carefully. Enough travelers get hurt driving a scooter; try not to be one of them.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Green Paddy Hostel & Villa
Green Paddy Hostel & Villa offers great deals with day trips and free shuttle into town.
It has amazing chilled atmosphere! Lovely view from the pool that is so perfect for relaxation.
Want explore Ubud and feel the culture heritage site of Ubud, such as Ubud Market, Ubud Palace, Goa Gajah Temple, and Rice terrace? The hostel staff will be glad to assist you to explore it.
Staff are indeed so helpful with assisting backpackers to plan adventure. They offer services which would let you save money!
Hostel Highlights:
- Swimming pool
- Free WiFi
- Outdoor pool
- Airport shuttle
- Free parking
- Non-smoking rooms
Location: Green Paddy Hostel & Villa is situated in Ubud, 1.2 km from Elephant Cave. Ubud Monkey Forest is 1.7 km from Green Paddy Hostel & Villa, while Ubud Market is 1.9 km from the property. The nearest airport is Ngurah Rai International Airport, 28 km from Green Paddy Hostel & Villa.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Sunshine Vintage House
Sunshine Vintage House is beautiful and you will definitely feel like at home.
The common space is cozy and the dorm is very comfortable and clean. There is an amazing breakfast and all day long coffee, tea and water.
Staff are super friendly and helpful with recommendations and directions.Their warm hospitality will make your Bali experience really enjoyable and beautiful!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Ubud Rice Field House
Want to stay away from the busy streets? Ubud Rice Field House is a good place to stay. Gorgeous hostel in the rice fields of Ubud.
If you are into yoga, there are yoga classes nearby that you can try. The hostel has relaxed atmosphere so it is indeed an ideal place to be if you want to chill and relax.
Hostel Highlights:
- 24 Hour Security
- Housekeeping
- Internet Access
- Late check-out
- Laundry Facilities
- Luggage Storage
- Tours/Travel Desk
Location: Situated 5 minutes by walk from Ubud main street. The Ubud Rice Field Hostel is 4.76 km away from Ubud Palace, 5.86 km away from Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, 2 km away from Alila Ubud Gallery. The nearest airport is Ngurah Rai International Airport which is 32 km away.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld
Puji Hostel Ubud
All we can say is that the view is astonishing! Puji Hostel Ubud offers a very relaxing atmosphere for backpackers who wish to chill in Ubud.
The nature is all you can hear especially at night. We think it is a good value for money.
The only downside is that there is no common area to mingle and meet new travelers so this hostel suited groups of travelers and families.
Hostel Highlights:
- Swimming pool
- Airport shuttle
- Outdoor pool
- Spa and wellness centre
- Free parking
Location: Located in Ubud, 500 m from Saraswati Temple. It is 2.3 km away from Legong Dormitory Backpacker Ubud Bali and 2.9 km away from Hostel Bali Backpackers. The nearest airport is Ngurah Rai International Airport, 38 km from the Puji Hostel Ubud Bali.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
The Onion Collective (community space, luxurious rooms)
The Onion Collective is not just a hostel, it’s a work space for digital nomads and a “chill temple” for all travellers alike. It is not really a backpackers hostel in Bali, but certainly one to have a great time. I would say, if you are “only” traveling and not working, there is better hostels in Ubud to mingle.
Here you have everything you need for an awesome Ubud hostel experience:
- Homestay w/ shared + private rooms
- Asian-fusion restaurant
- Swimming pool
- Passion Lab workspace
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
The rooms certainly stand out with their light, spacious design and homely vibe. Couples will certainly love the HUGE private rooms. Seriously, they’re a slice of Bali paradise.
Choose also between ladies dorm, mixed queen-sized bed dorms and what they call a ‘pool shack’. Yep, it’s right by the pool!
Read: Hostel Room Types – What are the Differences?
This is THE place for digital nomads to gather, get inspired and share their passion.
There are often inspiring talks happening here, alongside live music on Sunday and Tarot Nights on Tuesdays.
Psst! You might get lucky and enjoy one of the spontaneous Tribe Dinners.
The Onion Collective is the best hostel in Ubud for:
- Digital Nomads
- Couples
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
Any Discounts?
You can find all our hostel discounts worldwide here. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the freshest hostel discounts directly in your inbox. We even have special discount codes we only share in the newsletter.
It is completely free to join!
How to book?
The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.
We included some handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.
Read: Step-by-Step guide on how to book with Hostelworld
We recommend booking your hostel as early as possible! All of Ubud best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.
The coolest Hostel App you need comes as well from Hostelworld. It gives you super cool features like you can contact your hostel mates beforehand, ask questions, and make plans together. Find more details in our review of the app.
Scan the QR Code with your Smartphone to download the Hostelworld App from the App Store - like a real Hostel Geek!
14 Things you need to know before traveling to Ubud, Bali
First time we arrived in Bali, we were overwhelmed. No kidding!
There is a lot of stuff nobody tells you when sharing these amazing instagram photos and drone footage.
We were lucky enough to have traveled to Bali a second time. And once we had our expectations set right, we fell in love. Here is our 14 best tips and things you need to know before going to Ubud and Bali in general.
1. Pack a Sarong
Of course you want to visit many temples around Bali. The Balinese temples are gorgeous and for sure, one of the highlights; no doubt.
Therefore, pack yourself a Sarong.
You will need it to cover your knees and shoulders. At most temples you can rent a Sarong before entering. Yet, this is always an extra cost. Plus, a Sarong is super helpful anyways.
Read: 23 items to put on your hostel packing list
2. Airport Denpasar
The first time traveling to Bali, I was a bit confused about the Airport.
The actual Airport is called “Ngurah Rai International Airport”. The Airport is in Denpasar, officially. But actually, the Airport is in the South-East, directly near Kuta, Bali.
Anyways, keep this in mind. There is one official international airport in Bali. When arriving late at night, I recommend staying in Kuta. Here is our guide to best hostels in Kuta Bali.
That brings us to the next point…
3. Kuta will be your first stop in Bali
We planned to first stay in Kuta, Bali and take it from there.
That was a great decision for starting our backpacking in Bali and Ubud.
We walked from the Airport to Kuta, which is an easy 25-30 minutes walk.
This way we skipped the way-too-overpriced Taxi Scams at the Airport. Keep on reading why we did not use Grab or Uber at that point.
Kuta is not very popular. And it is said, it is not safe at night, since people get robbed by passing scooters. This robbery is unfortunately very common. It happened to two fellow hostel mates – although they had been warned.
It happens when you walk with your Smartphone in your hand. A scooter will approach you from behind and snatch your phone and drive away.
That being said, we never heard any story like this in Ubud!
4. Corrupt Police
Another unfortunate thing abut Bali: the corrupt police!
Especially the area around Denpasar is known for being a hot spot for corrupt police.
So, what happens?
The police will stop any motorbike with a foreigner. Even if you have your international drivers license, they will tell you it is still illegal etc.
What to do when the police stop you?
Keep only a small amount of money in your wallet – like $2-$5 in Indonesian Rupiah. Indonesian Rupiah is the official currency in Bali.
If they want to charge you, just let them know that is all money you have. It is very likely they take the bribe money and let you move on.
5. Grab, Go Jek Uber (and Taxi Mafia in Bali)
From corrupt police to the famous taxi mafia in Bali.
What if I told you, an Uber driver wanted to fight with me?!
Okay, I will start at the beginning.
The services Grab, Go Jek Uber are very difficult to get a hold of in Bali. The different areas and villages are divided between different Taxi Clans. They share their territory.
They literally hate UBER and Grab – and there are even stories where Taxi drivers hunt down Uber and Grab drivers to beat them up. Not a fun story, unfortunately! The internet is full of these stories, and it happened to many hostel mates too.
There are certain areas you can use the service, but we could not find out how exactly it works.
Back to my story: We were outside of Ubu and ordered an UBER. The third UBER we ordered actually came. The guy pulled up and asked me to cancel the reservation on UBER.
I asked him: “Why?”
He said: “I cannot drive with the smartphone. If someone sees me on the phone, taxis will know I am an UBER and I have a big problem.”
So I cancelled.
And then it started. He suddenly said a price 3 times higher than it was shown by UBER: I was upset that he played us and when I asked him “Do you do this every time?!“, he asked me if I wanted to fight and showed his fists.
No, thank you! I have zero interest in a fist fight. He left, we walked.
Here is a video on how to get a Gojek or Grab at the airport.
6. Traffic and Infrastructure
Another overwhelming thing you have to know about Bali: The traffic is insane!
Driving 10km can take you a whopping 30 minutes. Even with a motorbike.
The infrastructure ergo the streets are not prepared for so many cars, and they is only 1 line. So even if you are driving on a scooter, you cannot pass the cars since there is no space.
Plan accordingly and plan 3 times the time you would actually need.
Good to know as well: Many tour agencies and hotels realized foreigners love to be driven around. So they’ve got their own car to drive tourists around. The result: You have very long and wide SUVs and mini Vans driving with 3 people inside; the driver and two tourists.
Sometimes, this was ridiculous. Anyway, keep this in mind.
7. The Visa Issue
Make sure you check our visa properly when visiting.
Many countries receive a VISA when entering the country. This can be a 30 days visa, for instance.
Have a close look on the expiration date of your visa. We did not have a look and that was a mistake. The day you enter and the day you leave already count. And well, we miscalculated. We booked our flight too late, and overstayed our visa for 1 day.
We had to pay a fine of $30 and that was it; no other consequences.
However, I’d have preferred to spend these $30 in a different way.
8. Visiting Temples and Ceremonies
You will find many beautiful temples all over Bali; from Uluwatu Temple to Saraswati Temple. There are endless temples to visit.
The most famous temples are dotted around the area, actually.
The most famous temples in Bali are:
- Tanah Lot
- Uluwatu Temple in Uluwatu
- Besakih Temple in Karangasem
- Goa Gajah Ubud in Central Bali
- Gunung Kawi Temple in the Northeast of Ubud
- Tirta Empul Temple in Gianyar, Central Bali
- Ulun Danu Beratan Temple in Bedugul, Tabanan
- Lempuyang Temple in East Bali
- Taman Ayun Temple in Ubud
- Pura Taman Saraswati Temple in Ubud
We want to highlight Tirta Empul. The Tirta Empul Temple (meaning “holy water spring”) is one of the most popular holy mountain springs, north of Tampaksiring, near Ubud.
You can visit this temple and actually enter the water to pray.
Quite a unique experience!
9. The Instagram Bali
It may sound we do not like Bali or Ubud, but we do. We love it, seriously!
And yes, the Instagram Bali does exists! We just think it is helpful to know Bali is not only Drone Shoots, Avocados Smoothies and Coconut Bowls.
We found this cool video on instagram spots and cafés in Bali.
You do not have to take this video too seriously. It is very “instagrammy”, “influencer-like” etc.
For the regular person and visitor that just wants to discover the beauty, scroll past the video.
Read: the most beautiful hostels on Instagram
10. Monkey Forest
In the Spanish language you say “mono” when something or someone is very cute. “Mono” means cute, but also “monkey”.
While the Spanish language considers Monkey a synonym for being cute, the Monkeys in the Monkey Forest are definitely not “mono”.
We actually do not want to use any swear words, but a solid 95% of the monkeys here are actually…not nice!
They steal, they scratch, they pee on you…many monkeys in the famous Ubud Monkey Forest are trained to steal your glasses or ring for instance. Then you have to pay to a guide a small amount and “he organizes” that you get your belongings back.
Also, when the monkey scratches you, you will need some medical attention. Maybe even an extra vaccination.
Our recommendation: Drive pass the Monkey Forest, have a look at the monkeys sitting at the entrance of this sight, and move on. Save the entrance fee (IDR ±50.000 / person) and invest your money in something more fun and cool.
Here is a great video showing the monkey forest in action.
11. Healthy Restaurants and Food
Especially in Ubud you can eat very very healthy and super tasty food.
For Vegetarians and Vegans, Ubud is a serious paradise. On every corner you find amazing places offering fresh local food.
Here is a list of our favorite restaurants and cafés in Ubud.
Restaurants in Ubud we like:
- Kynd Community
- The Onion Collective
- Pundi Pundi
- Café Organic
- Sea Circus
- Mrs Sippy
- Alchemy
Cafés in Ubud we like:
- Seniman Coffee Studio
- Watercress Cafe
- Revive Cafe
- FREAK Coffee
- Clear Café
- Monkey Cave Espresso
12. Lazy Day at the Pool – Offers
Would you like to spoil yourself?
You do not need to stay in an expensive resort to enjoy it. Many resorts offer a “Lazy Day at the pool”.
It means basically you pay an entrance fee and you have access to the swimming pool and exclusive resort area. Keep an eye out for different offers. We could not find any website listing these places.
This is a super cool way to get the VIP Pool Experience in Bali without breaking the bank.
13. Party and Party and Party
Besides Ubud, you also have the huge party scene in Bali. We already mentioned this in the section Party Hostels.
The big party area in Bali is around Semiyak and Canggu. You will find big party pubs and clubs at the beaches.
Here you find a detailed guide for nightlife in Bali by the cool guys from TimeOut.
Especially Australian travelers are known for going wild in Bali. There are all kinds of stuff going on. The bar “Old Man’s” is one of most famous bars. Here you can have a drink with surfers, bloggers, digital nomads and party people.
That brings us to the next point…
14. Drunk Scooter Driving
Unfortunately this is a common problem in Bali: People drink and drive home with their scooter.
We have heard of many serious injuries; from people losing fingers or worse because either they drove drunk on their own or have been hit by another drunk driver.
We do not mean to scare you at all. Absolutely not! We just think you should be aware of this problem.
Many drunk drivers also end up in the rice fields. It can happen that a mud covered motorbike and driver passes you.
You are old enough to travel, so you are old enough to use your own judgement.
Read: How to stay safe while traveling – on and offline
Read: Safetywing Travel Insurance – does travel insurance make sense?
Our Favorite Hostels in Ubud put on a map + sights
Next up we have a handy map Bali Ubud has to offer and all the hippest hostels in Ubud pinpointed, plus the top sights we recommend visiting including:
- Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
- Ubud Palace
- Museum Puri Lukisan
- Monkey Forest Road
- Art Market
- Goa Gajah
- Saraswati Temple
- Campuhan Ridge Walk
- Ubud Market
As with many hotspot backpacker destinations, this city/ area has a ton of cool activities and tours on offer. We’ve compiled the very best of them just for you:
- Bali Instagram Tour: The Most Scenic Spots
- Mount Batur Sunrise Trek (+ Breakfast at the top)
- Visit the Ubud Rice Terraces, Temples + Volcano
- Take a trip to the Besakih Temple aka Mother Temple of Bali
- Go nuts on the Ubud Jungle Swing
Any questions about hostels in Ubud? 🤔
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Flights to Ubud?
Ubud itself has no airport. Everybody flys into Bali by going to Denpasar Airport. That Airport is actually near Kuta, not really in Denpasar. From the Airport you then need to take a car, taxi or scooter to Ubud.
We use Skyscanner and Omio.com to find cheap flights and good connections all over the globe.
Skyscanner has a bunch of cool features like Multi-City Trip. Instead of doing this research step-by-step, Skyscanner offers this flight planning tool.
FAQ
Alright, you should have found your accommodation already. Below we list all the frequently asked questions. Have a look.
More Epic Hostels
Alright alright. By now you have found your coolest Ubud Hostel.
Read: 29 Best Hostels in Bali for backpackers
You know what, we have written even more guides for you.
We at Hostelgeeks are here to help you to stay in safe and epic hostels around the world. Check out the finest hostels in the world, the 5 Star Hostels.
For more cool hostel guides around Indonesia, check out:
- best hostels in Jakarta
- 3 best hostels in Canggu, Bali
- coolest party hostels in Canggu
- Best Surf Hostels in Bali
- 3 best hostels in Gili Trawangan
- best hostels in Lombok
- best hostels in Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembogan
- best hostels in Uluwatu
- best hostels in Seminyak
- best hostels in Kuta Bali
- cool coworking hostels in Bali
Find all our hostel guides around the world here.
Over to you
Do you have any questions left, maybe doubts? Then please leave it in the comment below. We are very keen to help you - and actually you would even do us a favor!
Your question will help us to improve this Ubud guide.
Last note: Our commitment
This is a genuine article to help you travel a bit smarter, and find the best place on a budget! We will never recommend you any place we haven’t evaluated or are not convinced by. We are constantly updating all our guides to keep them as fresh and accurate as possible.
Safe travels,
The Hostelgeeks
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pin it for later
CLOSED: Inn Between Hostel (Local Vibe)
Update: This hostel has permanently closed. We’ve kept this content here for your information.
Inn between Hostel Ubud what, I hear you ask?
This traditional building is nestled in-between a group of Balinese family houses, offering a real insight to everyday life here.
This one is finally a cool backpacker hostel in Ubud; without private rooms – dorms only. It is a Youth Hostel, laid-back and “typical hostel” where it is easy to meet traveler.
Inn Between is located nearby many yoga places, the Palace and Monkey Forest. Plenty of local food can be found within walking distance. It’s a wonderful opportunity to try delicious street food!
This is certainly one of our favorite Ubud Hostel.
Good to know: there are no private rooms here. Instead, choose between 4-bed female and mixed, as well as a 6-bed mixed dorm.
Each rooms includes:
- Air conditioning
- Hot shower
- Plug + reading light
- Privacy curtain
- Mosquito net
Certainly the best way to relax here is to chill by the pool. There’s some lovely outside seating dotted around, too.
This sizeable outdoor communal area is perfect for relaxing and getting to know other like-minded travellers.
Read: 46 Tips to identify fantastic Hostels worldwide
The atmosphere is peaceful thanks to the perfect location on a quiet road away from the busier streets.
Inn Between is the best hostel in Ubud for:
- Solo travellers
- Friends
- Backpacker
