2 Days in Ubud Bali: Unique Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

First time in Ubud? You’re not alone … and you’re in for something special. Ubud isn't just a stop on a Bali itinerary – it’s where time slows down and moments stretch out. While some may wonder, “Is two days in Ubud enough?”  The answer is yes – if you know where to go, what to skip, and where to savor the best jungle meals.

This two-day Ubud itinerary is written to give you an experience that’s not only Instagram-worthy but soul-satisfying, whether you’re travelling solo, honeymooning, or coming with besties. We’ll also sprinkle how long to spend at each stop, the best time to avoid crowds, and where to eat. So, don’t miss the hidden gems we’re spilling here!

Day 1 in Ubud: Connect with Ubud’s Soul – Temples, Natures, and Foods

Campuhan Ridge Walk

Begin your first morning in Ubud with the Campuhan Ridge Walk. This scenic trail is a perfect introduction to Ubud’s serenity. Aim to start before 7.30 AM to catch the soft morning light, when the trail is cool and quiet. It’s flat, an easy walk – ideal for shaking off the jet lag and connecting with Bali’s grounding energy.

The entire loop takes about 45 minutes to an hour, but you might find yourself pausing often for photos or just to breathe in the landscape. It’s a perfect reset for those coming from Bali’s busier areas like Seminyak or Canggu.

Light Morning Bites and Coffee

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, make your way to some cozy local cafe nearby, such as Suka Espresso for a healthy early brunch or coffee. The slow vibe ambience from this cafe will gently ease into your day from 7.30 AM. 

Ubud Monkey Forest

After fueling up, it’s time to walk. No trip to Ubud is complete without visiting the Sacred Ubud Monkey Forest, and it’s perfect to take a walk here.

Ubud Monkey Forest is more than a sanctuary; it’s a living spiritual site where the line between nature, wildlife, and culture is thin. Take your time, stay respectful, and enjoy the occasional monkey photobomb.

Tirta Empul Temple and Subak Pulagan

Tirta Empul is one of Bali’s most sacred water temples, and it offers more than just beautiful photos. Locals come here to practice in a traditional purification ritual under the spring-fed fountains.

As a respectful visitor, you’re welcome to join – with sarong, a guide, and an open heart. The process is deeply personal and grounding, a meaningful way to immerse yourself in Bali's spiritual life.

After your visit, skip the crowded Tegallang terraces and head instead to Subak Pulagan, a quieter, less touristy rice terrace just five minutes away. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll without the pressure of swing queues or entrance fees. You’ll see farmers at work, hear birds instead of drones, and feel a more authentic silence of Ubud.

Lunch at Poolside Restaurant Titik Dua

For lunch, head to the Poolside Restaurant Titik Dua. A relaxed yet stylish venue just steps from the hotel. It’s a perfect spot to cool down and refuel after your morning exploring Ubud.

Don’t miss their Focaccia Pizza menu; The Smoky Summer– sweet savory gammon pizza topped with stracciatella clouds, or the Green Goodness for a lighter vegetarian take with spinach, herbs, and cream cheese. Pair it with their cocktail for a perfect filling combination. P.S. It’s now on special prices for only IDR 180K. 

Evening is Leisure Time

After lunch, give yourself space to just be. This is your ‘do-nothing’ window. You can stay at a villa overlooking rice fields or a cozy boutique hotel near town. Block out an hour or two hours to nap, swim, or journal. 

If you’re feeling indulgent, consider a quick foot massage or head and shoulder treatment at one of Ubud’s many spas. Many travelers overlook this reset time, but it makes all the difference for your energy later. 

Don't pack your schedule too tight. Part of Ubud’s charm is its permission to slow down.

Dinner at Ramu Kitchen

As the sun sets, head to Ramu Kitchen, one of the most soulful dining spots in Ubud. If there’s only one special dinner you plan in Ubud, this should be it.

Start with their signature Sangria, before moving to dishes like the 14-day aged duck ssam with tangy sour dip, or the deeply flavored Hibachi Grilled Fish Mangut. Their Kiwami Top Sirloin Steak is a crowd favorite, grilled perfectly and served with local-inspired sides.

On Thursday and Sunday nights, Ramu Kitchen hosts intimate live music performances– adding ambience without overwhelming your dinner conversation. Your dining experience here will surely leave a lasting imprint. 

Day 2 in Ubud: Art To Heal Your Energy

Breakfast at Poolside Titik Dua

Never start a day with an empty tummy and grumpy mood. For a perfect second day in Ubud, have a light breakfast at Poolside Titik Dua. Beside their varieties of breakfast meals, the shaded poolside atmosphere offers a modern contrast to the Ubud’s nature you’re going to explore today. 

Blanco Renaissance Museum & Coffee Ritual

Start your second day with art. The Blanco Renaissance Museum, perched on a hill above the Campuhan River, offers not just Antoio Blanco’s flamboyant works but also incredible views and a peaceful garden. It’s a quirky yet elegant way to explore Bali’s deep connection with creativity.

Once you’re done exploring, walk to a nearby traditional Bali coffee roastery, many of which offer free tastings. Skip the gimmicky Luwak coffee and try the local Balinese beans roasted over firewood. The ritual of slowly sipping strong black coffee while listening to forest sounds feels as meditative as any yoga class.

Lunch at Sunset Cafe, Taman Dedari

After a slow morning with art and coffee, take a short drive to Sunset Cafe at Taman Dedari. Nestled above the Ayung River, this hidden gem is surrounded by towering guardian statues, tropical trees, and gentle river breeze.

Their menu is simple but satisfying. The most recommended menu to try is their signature crispy duck or nasi campur, and let the peaceful ambience carry you deeper into Ubud’s soul.

Bike Ride or Short Waterfall Visit (optional)

If time allows and you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike or pedal through the outskirts of Ubud, where bamboo forests and quiet temples await. Or take a short trip to Tibumana Waterfall or Kanto Lampo Waterfall for a refreshing dip. This is your choose-your-own-pace part of the day. 

Evening: Sunset and Quiet Dinner

End your Ubud journey with an early dinner overlooking the jungle. Choose somewhere calm and reflective. Let the jungle sounds and fireflies bid you goodbye. Head back to Ramu Kitchen for a familiar close to your trip. Their dinner setting, surrounded by nature and soft lighting, gives a reflective and intimate atmosphere to wind down your stay.

But if you prefer something different, try Kubu at Mandapa, they offer riverside fine dining inside private bamboo cocoons.

After dinner, take a final walk or soak in your private villa bath. Two days may be short but if done with intention, they can feel infinitely rich.

Is Two Days on Ubud Enough?

So, is two days in Ubud enough? Maybe not enough to do everything, but definitely enough to feel the pulse of this cultural village, to be moved by its beauty, and to plan your next visit. 

With the right flow, your 2 days in Ubud can be rich, rooted, and ready to pull you back in.