Helpful Tips for Your Bali Holiday
Although the island is small, it’s incredibly diverse, with many destinations and activities to choose from. That can feel a bit overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. If you’re just starting to plan your trip, this quick FAQ guide will give you a solid overview to help you get oriented.
Bali - Must Know & Facts
Visa Requirements
Citizens of more than 90 countries can enter Indonesia with a Visa on Arrival (VoA), also known as the B1 Visit Visa. This visa can be obtained online or upon arrival at the airport.
If your country is not eligible for VoA, or if you’re planning to stay longer than 60 days, or have a non-tourism-related purpose, you will need to apply for the 211A Visit Visa before entering Indonesia.
Travel Requirements
All international travelers must comply with Indonesia’s general entry requirements. In addition, Bali has its own regulations such as the recently introduced Tourist Tax.
As of 14 February 2024, every international visitor to Bali is required to pay a tourism levy of IDR 150,000. This fee is used to support sustainable tourism and preserve the island’s natural and cultural heritage.
More details, including payment options, can be found here:
Bali Tourism Tax
May, June, and September are ideal months to visit Bali.
Bali is a year-round destination, but the dry season from April to October is especially popular. During this time, you’ll enjoy sunny days, low humidity, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities and beach holidays.
Yes, through the BaliCard.
The BaliCard offers 10% or more in discounts at over 200 venues, including Villas, Hotels, Restaurants, and Activities. It’s a great way to make your Bali experience even better—while saving money.
Enjoy savings on: Accommodation, Rafting, Cooking Classes, Jewelry Workshops, Car Rentals with Driver, SIM Cards, Jet Skiing, Scuba Diving, Escape Rooms, and much more.
Get your BaliCard here – valid for up to 5 people
Top Bali Destinations
Bali’s top destinations each offer something different. Popular choices include:
Canggu & Berawa – hip and modern, perfect for surfers and digital nomads
Ubud – culture, wellness, and nature in the heart of Bali
Seminyak – stylish, with beach clubs, boutiques, and restaurants
Sanur – relaxed and family-friendly
Nusa Lembongan & Ceningan – island escapes with laid-back charm
Nusa Dua – home to high-end resorts and white-sand beaches
Use our destination guide to choose the area that best matches your travel style
As long as you can, but 2 to 3 weeks are great
For those traveling long distances to reach Bali, especially with flights lasting more than 6–8 hours, it’s worth planning for a stay of at least two to three weeks. This gives you time to adjust to the time difference, explore various parts of the island, and enjoy some downtime as well.
Bali offers excellent value for money, no matter your travel style—from budget-friendly to high-end luxury.
Backpacker
Accommodation: USD 15–30 per room/night
Meals: USD 2–4
Scooter Rental: USD 3–6 per day
Mid-Range (3–4*)
Accommodation: USD 80–120 per room/night
Meals: USD 6–10
Scooter Rental: USD 3–6 per day
Car Rental with Driver: USD 35–45 per day
Accommodation: USD 170–400 per room/night
Meals: USD 12–20
Scooter Rental: USD 10–15 per day
Car Rental with Driver: USD 60–100 per day
Bali Supreme Experience
Accommodation: USD 400+ per room/night
Meals: USD 30–60
Scooter Rental: USD 10–15 per day
Car Rental with Driver: USD 60–100 per day
Note: Imported wine and spirits tend to be expensive due to taxes. A cocktail in a good bar usually costs around USD 8–12.
- Variety, variety, variety…Bali has something for everyone…from party…to nature…to spirituality…
- A wide range of unique accommodation
- Tropical Climate
- Tolerance – Warm and welcoming people
- Diverse beaches and great surf
- Incredible sights and attractions
- Wellness and spiritual retreats
- Rich art and vibrant culture
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Excellent food and nightlife
- Exceptional Value for Money – in all travel segments
- Great scuba diving spots
Yes, Bali has introduced official guidelines on how visitors should behave while on the island. These were implemented in response to several incidents involving tourists disrespecting local customs, traditions, and laws. The guide aims to help travelers understand what is considered appropriate and respectful conduct.
Planning ahead is essential to make the most of your Bali holiday. Beside Visa & Entry Regulations Here’s a checklist to help you get started in partnership with bali.com:
- Complete your customs declaration form within 72 hours before arrival
- Fill in the health pass form due to MPOX
- Choose the best time to travel based on the Weather Guide
- Explore the different areas and what they offer – Destination Guide
- Get to know the culture and customs – Culture Guide
- Book well-located accommodations that suit your needs – Hotels | Villas
- Create a wish list of things to do, then plan your base accordingly – Transportation Guide
- If you ride a scooter, consider renting one – Rent a Scooter
- Stay connected with a local data plan – SIM & eSIM Options
- Get access to exclusive discounts with the BaliCard
It depends on what you consider a paradise to be.
If you imagine untouched beaches and total tranquility, Bali might not meet that ideal everywhere. Areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Uluwatu, or even parts of Ubud have become quite busy and are shaped by mass tourism. Traffic can be frustrating, especially in high season, and some places have developed faster than infrastructure could keep up.
But Bali remains special. Despite challenges, it still offers a unique mix of natural beauty, culture, spirituality, and hospitality. It’s a place where you can explore temples, dive into vibrant local art scenes, retreat in quiet villages, or enjoy world-class dining and accommodation. And yes, many corners of Bali still feel remote, authentic, and peaceful.
Bali might not match the postcard version of paradise everywhere—but for many, it’s even better because of the variety and richness it offers.
Yes, Bali is generally considered safe for tourists, including solo travelers and women. Like in any popular travel destination, petty crime can occur, so a bit of common sense goes a long way—don’t leave belongings unattended, especially on the beach or in public areas.
One of the biggest risks in Bali is probably having an accident with a scooter for untrained and riders. Renting a scooter is popular, but if you’re not experienced or don’t have the right license, it can be dangerous. Accidents are not uncommon. Always wear a helmet, follow traffic rules, and drive cautiously.