Dreaming of Bali for your first international getaway? You’re not alone. With its lush rice terraces, warm tropical seas, sacred temples, and vibrant nightlife, Bali remains one of the most visited islands in the world - and for good reason.
But before you pack your bags and head to the Island of the Gods, it helps to know what to expect, how to behave, and how to plan your itinerary wisely.
Here’s your complete guide to visiting Bali for the first time - from entry requirements and local customs to safety tips and the best one-week itineraries for every kind of traveller.
Things to Consider Before Your Trip
Visa and Entry Requirements
Australians and most nationalities can get a Visa on Arrival (VOA) valid for 30, extendable once days (To check your Visa requirement – myvisitvisa.com). Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your entry date and has one blank page for the entry stamp.
You must also fill out the electronic customs declaration ‘All Indonesia’ and pay ‘Bali Tourism Levy’ online before arriving.
If you’re unsure where to apply your Bali tourist visa or Bali eVOA, MyVisitVisa.com can guide you step-by-step - from checking eligibility to getting your visa.
Travel Insurance
Never skip travel insurance. Bali’s healthcare can be expensive for foreigners, and having coverage for medical emergencies, flight cancellations, or lost baggage is essential. It’s not compulsory but advised for your own security.
Money and Payments
The local currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Cash is still king in markets and local warungs, but cards are accepted in most tourist areas. Avoid exchanging money on the street - use official money changers only.
Transport
Grab or Gojek apps are your best bet for getting around cheaply and safely. Avoid unlicensed taxis that often overcharge tourists.
Things to Be Aware Of (and Mistakes to Avoid)
Respect the Temples and Traditions
Bali is deeply spiritual, with Hindu traditions woven into daily life. When visiting temples:
- Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees)
- Don’t climb or sit on sacred statues
- Women should avoid entering temples during menstruation
Don’t Step on Offerings
You’ll see small woven baskets filled with flowers, rice, and incense (called canang sari) placed on streets, doorsteps, and altars. Step carefully - accidentally stepping on one is considered disrespectful.
Mind the Plastic Ban
Single-use plastics like straws and plastic bags are banned. Bring a reusable water bottle or shopping bag.
Scooter Safety
Renting a scooter is popular, but accidents are common. Always wear a helmet, carry an international driving permit, and get proper insurance coverage.
Avoid Monkey Mischief
Places like Ubud’s Monkey Forest are fun but be cautious. Don’t feed the monkeys, hold food in your hand, or make direct eye contact - they can get aggressive.
Cultural Etiquette and Traditions
- Greet locals with a smile and a slight nod - Balinese people are warm and friendly.
- Never point with your index finger; use your whole hand instead.
- Always receive and offer items with your right hand, never your left.
- Public displays of affection are frowned upon near temples or rural areas.
- When invited into a Balinese home, remove your shoes before entering.
Best Time to Visit Bali
Dry Season (April–October) – Perfect for beaches, surfing, and sightseeing.
Wet Season (November–March) – Lush landscapes and fewer crowds but expect short tropical downpours.
For most first-timers, May to September hits the sweet spot between great weather and manageable tourist traffic.
One-Week Bali Itinerary for Every Type of Traveller
The Nature Lover’s Itinerary
Day 1–2: Ubud – Explore the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Campuhan Ridge Walk, and Tegenungan Waterfall. Visit local art markets.
Day 3: Mount Batur sunrise trek followed by a soak in Toya Devasya Hot Springs.
Day 4–5: Sidemen or Munduk – stay in a jungle resort or eco-villa surrounded by rice paddies.
Day 6–7: Nusa Penida day trip – visit Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Broken Beach.
The Beach & Party Lover’s Itinerary
Day 1–2: Seminyak – trendy cafés, beach clubs like Potato Head and Ku De Ta.
Day 3–4: Canggu – surf by day, party by night at Old Man’s or Finns Beach Club.
Day 5–6: Uluwatu – cliffside bars like Single Fin, and catch the sunset at Uluwatu Temple.
Day 7: Nusa Lembongan for a final chill day before departure.
The Culture & Food Lover’s Itinerary
Day 1–2: Ubud – try a cooking class, visit Goa Gajah Temple, and watch a traditional Kecak dance.
Day 3–4: Sidemen – experience authentic Balinese village life, visit local weavers.
Day 5–6: Jimbaran – seafood dinner on the beach and relax in luxury resorts.
Day 7: Denpasar or Sanur – explore local food markets and enjoy a final Balinese massage.
Essential Tips for First-Time Travellers
- Drink bottled or filtered water only - tap water isn’t safe.
- Watch out for tourist scams - avoid unofficial guides or unmetered taxis.
- Respect local ceremonies - if you see a road closed for a ceremony, wait patiently.
- Use mosquito repellent - Bali has occasional dengue outbreaks.
- Stay connected - buy a local SIM card at the airport (Telkomsel or XL) or get an eSim from Bikago and configure once you are in Airport.
Final Thoughts
Bali is a destination that offers something for every kind of traveller - serenity for the nature seeker, spirituality for the soul searcher, and adventure for the thrill-chaser. Your first visit will likely not be your last, as Bali has a way of calling travellers back again and again. Whether you’re here to surf, sip coconuts, or meditate at sunrise, just remember to respect the island’s culture, stay mindful of local customs, and travel responsibly - and Bali will reward you with memories that last a lifetime.