Ubud Bali Travel Guide 2025 – A Dreamy Route Through Hotels, Yoga, Food, and Spas
Fourth Time in Ubud, and Still Excited
I first set foot in Ubud, Bali 10 years ago — it was my first ever solo trip as a woman. Now, this is my fourth visit. What keeps bringing me back? It's the unique sense of peace you can only feel in Ubud. Time moves differently here. There’s nothing urgent, no to-do list. Just time and space to reconnect with yourself.
Ubud Trip Essentials: What You Need
Flights & Transportation
I usually fly with Korean Air thanks to my accumulated mileage, which sometimes gets me upgraded to business class — a real lifesaver on long-haul flights. These days, direct flights from airlines like Jeju Air and Garuda Indonesia have become more frequent too.
The ride from Bali’s airport to Ubud takes about 1.5 hours. I recommend booking a pickup in advance via Klook, especially if you're arriving late at night — it brings peace of mind.
Data & Must-Haves
I use the Airalo eSIM app — just $5 for 5GB, and it’s more than enough for a week. Pre-loading it before your trip is way more convenient than dealing with SIM cards upon arrival.
Pack light: a few sets of yoga clothes, two swimsuits, comfy sandals, and a hat are my go-tos. Ubud’s vibe is relaxed — yoga outfits or flowy dresses are all you need.
Where I Stayed: Each Hotel Has Its Own Charm
Every time I visit Ubud, I try a new hotel. Each place offers its own unique atmosphere, and that’s half the fun.
- The Artini Dijiwa Resort: Quiet and cozy. About a 10-minute walk from The Yoga Barn — perfect for a morning stroll. Safe and peaceful, great for solo travelers.
- Ubud Aura Wellness Sanctuary: Literally behind The Yoga Barn. Immaculately clean and serene, with a gorgeous pool. The breakfast here? Still dreaming about it.
- Alaya Resort: For a special treat. Just 3 minutes from The Yoga Barn, right next to Pison café. A luxury option great for couples. Sometimes we deserve a little splurge.
- Biyukukung Suites: Unique bamboo-built rooms nestled in nature. A bit wild for those scared of bugs, but an Instagrammable dream!
- Puri Padi: Best for tight budgets. It’s not my top pick, but the value is undeniable and location is decent.
Yoga: The Soul of Ubud
Yoga is the #1 reason I return to Ubud. Even though I practice in Seoul, it feels totally different here — with the sound of birds and rustling leaves all around. These classes guide you beyond movement into inner awareness. When your heart needs healing, Ubud yoga is the answer.
- The Yoga Barn: World-renowned. I've loved it since my first trip 10 years ago. Over 25 classes a day — Chakra Healing Yoga was deeply moving, and the Watsu water class was like being reborn. I even cried — in a good way.
- Alchemy: A bamboo cathedral. I took a gentle Air class perfect for beginners. Soft, deep stretches. A beautiful space for recovery.
- Intuitive Flow: Panoramic views during yoga. Less crowded, easy to focus. Totally memorable.
- Ubud Yoga House: Imagine sunrise yoga overlooking rice fields. Absolutely stunning.
Best Brunch Spots for Slow Mornings
- Lazy Cat Café: Artsy and quiet. Ideal for reading or journaling solo.
- Alchemy Restaurant: Clean vegan menu. Feels like detox for body and soul.
- Sayuri Healing Food: Korean-taste friendly. Live music at night too!
- Zest Ubud: Jungle view from plush sofas. Spacious and stylish.
- Clear Café: Feels like stepping into a secret garden. Dine by the koi pond — unforgettable.
Spas to Complete Your Healing Journey
- Beji Ayu: Ayurveda massage with real essential oils. Different from any regular massage. Affordable too — I go every visit.
- Fresh! Foot & Nail: Great value mani-pedis. I skip Korean salons and come here instead!
- Rambulan Spa: End your trip with a flower bath and scrub. Ideal for your last day.
- Melyawi Spa: Hot stone massage and cellulite treatment. I went every single day!
What I Learned in Ubud
Ubud isn’t just a destination — it’s a place to *practice slow living*. Away from deadlines and noise, I found space to heal. Each day followed a gentle rhythm: yoga, brunch, journaling, massage, rest. I realized how precious these simple things really are.
More than social media posts, what mattered most was *being present*. Feeling each moment deeply. That’s what makes Ubud magical.
My Promise for the Next Trip
Even after four visits, I’m already planning my fifth. There are still yoga studios I haven’t tried, and more cafés than I can count!
Next time, I want to stay longer — maybe take a Balinese cooking class, a ceramic workshop, or go on a sunrise trek. Ubud always has something new waiting for you.
I hope this guide helps you plan your own soulful Ubud escape. Wishing you a trip full of meaning and serenity!
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