The Bali Tour

So you’re planning a trip to Bali and trying to figure out where to stay in Ubud? Yeah, been there. It’s not as straightforward as you’d think, right? Ubud sounds small on paper, but once you start looking at all the neighborhoods—Jungle-y ones, rice terrace views, walkable spots near town, those fancy resorts tucked into the hills—you’re like, “Wait… where’s the best area for me?”

I’ve stayed in Ubud at least five times now—solo, with my partner, once with my sister who’s obsessed with yoga retreats, and even once during that month I tried to be a “digital nomad” (lol). So yeah, I’ve tested a lot of areas and styles of accommodation. I’ve stayed in budget guesthouses with jungle bathrooms (yes, the ones where frogs might join you in the shower), boutique villas with infinity pools, and even tried one of those all-inclusive wellness resorts where they feed you things like mung bean porridge and try to align your chakras at sunrise.

Here’s the honest lowdown on where to stay in Ubud depending on your vibe, your budget, and what kinda trip you’re after.

Staying in Central Ubud – Walk Everywhere, But Know What You’re Getting Into

If it’s your first time and you’re unsure where to stay in Ubud, staying near the Ubud Palace or Monkey Forest Road is probably your safest bet. That’s basically “downtown” Ubud—where all the action is.

So what’s it like? Think cute cafes, smoothie bowls, rice field views if you squint real hard, boutique shops, and lots of traffic. I stayed on Jalan Hanoman once—close enough to walk to Yoga Barn, which was kinda the goal at the time—and honestly, it was super convenient. No need to rent a scooter, which is a big deal if you’re not comfy riding one (I totally wiped out once in Canggu… don’t ask).

But here’s the real talk: central Ubud is noisy. Like, roosters in the morning, motorbikes all day, and sometimes gamelan music at night from nearby temples. If you’re a light sleeper, choose a guesthouse or hotel that’s tucked into one of the side alleys off the main streets (like Jalan Kajeng or Jalan Bisma). They’re usually much quieter but still close enough that you can walk to most places.

Also, prices can vary wildly. I’ve stayed in a lovely little family-run homestay for about $25/night with breakfast (banana pancakes, naturally), and then there’s fancier stuff like Bisma Eight or Alaya that runs $150+ depending on the season.

If you’re looking to be in the heart of Ubud, meet people, and walk to restaurants, this is it. Just don’t expect total peace and quiet.

Penestanan – My Favorite Spot for Chilling Without Being in the Middle of Town

So the first time I stumbled into Penestanan, I was actually trying to find a vegan café and got lost. Best accidental discovery ever. It’s technically west of central Ubud, maybe a 15-20 minute walk into town, depending on where you’re staying. Or five minutes on a scooter.

Penestanan is quieter, artsier, and kinda feels like Ubud ten years ago. There’s a mix of expats, yogis, long-term digital nomads, and folks just trying to zen out. I’ve stayed here twice—once in a private villa I found on Airbnb (around $60/night), and once in a cheaper room above a little café that cost $18 but came with insane jungle views.

One big heads up though: a lot of places in Penestanan are down narrow walking paths. Like, you’ll have to park your scooter at the top of a lane and walk the last 2-3 minutes in. Kinda charming, kinda annoying if you’ve overpacked (guilty).

If you’re into yoga, Alchemy Yoga and The Yoga House are nearby. If you like raw desserts and turmeric lattes, you’re also covered. And for being a little out of town, it still has some super Instagrammable villas with pools, rice field views, and all the Bali vibes you’re probably picturing.

Sayan – Luxe Jungle Vibes for Honeymooners or Peace-Seekers

Sayan is where the money’s at—literally. If you’ve seen pics of the Four Seasons Ubud with that huge circular yoga bale overlooking the Ayung River, that’s in Sayan. But there’s more than just luxury resorts here.

The area is green. Like, crazy green. Jungle, river valleys, mist in the mornings—it’s honestly kinda magical. The downside? You’ll need a scooter or driver to get into central Ubud unless you’re cool with 30-minute walks along hilly roads (not ideal in the midday heat, trust me).

I stayed in a mid-range eco-lodge here once—it had outdoor showers and compost toilets and was totally off-grid. I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about it at first, but waking up to nothing but birdsong and river noise? Insane. Easily the most peaceful sleep I’ve had in Bali.

Sayan’s great if you want privacy, nature, and some luxury. It’s not great if you want to bar hop or pop into town easily for dinner every night. But for couples or solo retreaters? Hard to beat.

Nyuh Kuning – Tucked Away Charm Near the Monkey Forest (But Less Chaos)

Nyuh Kuning (pronounced kinda like “new kooning”) is this super cute little village just south of the Monkey Forest. Honestly, it’s a sweet spot if you want the best of both worlds—close to Ubud town, but waaay quieter and cleaner.

There’s a local vibe here I really like. Kids play in the streets in the evening, families tend their temples, and there are some great locally-run warungs that’ll cost you half of what you’d pay in the center. And since it borders the Monkey Forest, there’s a chance monkeys might show up near your guesthouse—so maybe don’t leave your bananas outside.

Accommodation-wise, it’s a mix. You’ll find small guesthouses with big gardens, mid-range hotels with pools, and a few fancier places tucked into side streets. One time I stayed in this garden villa with a hammock out front and honestly didn’t leave for two whole days (the warung next door delivered mie goreng—bless them).

Nyuh Kuning is perfect if you’re into early morning walks, don’t mind a bit of a stroll into town (maybe 10-15 mins), and want a more local, chilled vibe.

Tegallalang – For Those Iconic Rice Terraces (But Not the Best Base)

Alright, so Tegallalang. You’ve definitely seen the pics—those step-like rice terraces that show up on every Bali Pinterest board ever. Super photogenic. But… not exactly walkable Ubud.

Tegallalang is actually about 20-30 minutes north of Ubud proper. I stayed up here once because I found this villa on Instagram with an infinity pool right over the terraces. And while it looked dreamy, I won’t lie—after two nights, I was kinda over it.

The view? Incredible. The isolation? Less so. If you don’t have a scooter, it’s a hassle. Food options are limited (unless you’re cool eating at the same tourist cafés over and over), and it’s dead quiet at night. Also, you’ll need to drive into Ubud for most things—yoga, groceries, better food, massages, whatever.

Tegallalang is great for a few nights if you’re doing a romantic trip or wanna wake up to rice terrace views. But I wouldn’t base my whole trip here unless you’re really into staying away from the crowds.

Lodtunduh – Low-Key, Cheaper, and Close to Nature

Okay, I feel like Lodtunduh doesn’t get talked about enough. It’s just south of Ubud and super handy if you’re on a budget but don’t want to be in the thick of central town chaos.

It’s way more local. Think banana trees, small art studios, and warungs instead of cafés with dragonfruit smoothies. I stayed here for a week during a longer trip when I was trying to stretch my budget. Found a place for under $15/night that had a pool (shared, but still!) and included breakfast. Insane.

Only catch is that you really need a scooter. Everything is kinda spread out and there’s no real “center” to Lodtunduh, but you’re still only 10-15 minutes from Ubud’s town center. Also, a lot of cool Airbnb villas are hidden here—ones that overlook the jungle or have those big Balinese doors that make you feel like royalty.

It’s a good pick if you want space, peace, and don’t mind scootering. Plus, you get way more for your money down here.

So… Where Should You Stay in Ubud Based on Your Trip Type?

Not to make it more confusing, but here’s the general breakdown I always give friends:

• First time in Ubud or short trip (like 2-3 nights)? Central Ubud or Nyuh Kuning. Easy access, walkable, convenient.
• Chill trip with a creative or spiritual angle? Penestanan. Artsy, low-key, and still not too far.
• Romantic escape or honeymoon? Sayan or Tegallalang (just for a few nights). The views are 💯.
• Budget-friendly and quiet? Lodtunduh, hands down. Good bang for your buck.
• Digital nomad-ing or staying long term? Penestanan or even outer Sayan. Both have great villas with monthly rates and a chill community.

One thing I always tell people is to split their stay. Like, do 2-3 nights in central Ubud to get your bearings, then move out to Penestanan or Sayan for the chill, green vibes. That way, you get the best of both worlds without getting sick of scooters or traffic noise—or worse, feeling stranded.

Awesome! Since you’re into the real-deal stuff (and not just a generic list pulled from Booking or Agoda), I’ll break down a handful of actual places I’ve personally stayed in or have been recommended to me by trusted travelers—sorted by neighborhood and vibe.

These aren’t sponsored or anything (lol, I wish)—just solid options with fair prices, good locations, and the kind of charm that doesn’t always show up in the algorithm.

Actual Places to Stay in Ubud I’d Book Again (and Again)

Central Ubud – Great for First-Timers, Walkability, and Easy Access to Everything

💬 In My Words: “Close enough to walk everywhere but far enough off the main road to get a decent night’s sleep.”

Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel

• Around $35–$50 for dorm, $100+ for private
• Best for: Solo travelers, meeting people, wellness on a budget
• Daily yoga, pool, free massages, community vibe
• Right off Jalan Raya Pengosekan, so light traffic noise if you’re a light sleeper
• Personal take: Stayed here once when traveling solo and needed a mix of social and downtime. Super clean and stylish for a hostel.

Goutama Homestay

• Around $20–$30
• Best for: Budget stay, couples, solo backpackers
• Run by a local Balinese family, tucked in a peaceful lane, free banana pancakes every morning
• Don’t expect luxury—it’s basic, but clean
• Personal take: I’ve stayed here twice, once alone and once with my sister. Feels like home. The owner once helped us chase down a lost sandal a monkey stole (true story).

Penestanan – Quiet, Scenic, Yoga-y, Artsy Vibe

In My Words: “Feels like Ubud before Ubud got all influencer-y. Still has all the good cafés, just way fewer tour buses.”

🛏️ The Runik Ubud

• 💰 Around $80–$120
• 🔑 Best for: Couples, mid-budget travelers
• ✅ Private villas with outdoor tubs, rice field views, gorgeous paths leading in
• ❌ Can be a bit of a walk from the main road—pack light or be ready to wheel a suitcase over uneven stone
• 🧍‍♀️Personal take: My partner and I stayed here for four nights. Super romantic. One morning, we watched ducks waddle past our plunge pool. I’m still not over it.

Sunrise House Bali

• Around $25–$40
• Best for: Longer stays, digital nomads
• Shared kitchen, coworking vibe, big rooms with rice field views
• Wi-Fi can be patchy during rains
• Personal take: Stayed here during my “pretend I’m a nomad” phase. Met cool people, made nasi goreng in the shared kitchen while someone played the hang drum on the balcony.

Sayan – Jungle Serenity, Luxury, and Deep Chill Vibes

In My Words: “Stay here if you want to wake up to misty trees and not hear a single engine all day.”

Bambu Indah

• Around $200–$400
• Best for: Eco-luxury seekers, honeymooners
• Treehouse-style villas, riverfront restaurant, saltwater pools, eco-conscious
• It’s pricey, and getting into Ubud town takes 15–20 mins by scooter
• Personal take: I didn’t stay here (budget wouldn’t allow) but came here for lunch and nearly cried at how beautiful it was. My dream spot for an anniversary trip someday.

Naya Ubud

• Around $100–$150
• Best for: Retreats, self-reflection, off-grid yoga mode
• Daily yoga, healing sessions, quiet as heck
• Feels a little remote unless you’re into being off the grid
• Personal take: My sister booked a retreat here. She didn’t wear shoes for three days and said it changed her life. She now owns four singing bowls. Just sayin’.

Nyuh Kuning – Local Charm Without the Central Chaos

In My Words: “You can walk to town through the Monkey Forest and still sleep peacefully at night. Best of both worlds.”

Ubud Wana Resort

• Around $60–$90
• Best for: Couples, quiet nights, family-friendly
• Three pools, big buffet breakfasts, peaceful area
• Slightly more “hotel” than “Bali charm”
• Personal take: Great place when I was traveling with my mom—clean, comfy, and the staff were absolute angels when she twisted her ankle on day two.

Bali Bohemia

• Around $25–$50
• Best for: Creative types, laid-back vibe
• Super artsy, colorful murals, live music nights
• Right by the Monkey Forest entrance—cute monkeys, but they will stare you down
• Personal take: I stayed here on a whim and ended up dancing barefoot to acoustic reggae with a German backpacker. Would do it again.

Tegallalang – For That One Epic View Stay

In My Words: “Stay here for the ‘wow’ views. But plan on scootering for everything else.”

Alam Ubud Culture Villas & Residences

• Around $80–$120
• Best for: Couples, photographers, retreat-goers
• Infinity pool over the jungle, free yoga, shuttle to Ubud
• Far from restaurants/shops unless you eat onsite
• Personal take: I booked a 2-night escape here after a stressful trip to Seminyak. It was so silent at night, I thought my ears were broken. Blissful.

Suarapura Resort & Spa

• Around $70–$100
• Best for: Mid-range romance, yoga lovers
• Panoramic views of rice terraces, on-site spa, dreamy design
• Location is isolated—good if you don’t want to do much
• Personal take: One of those places you wish you booked for longer. I drank ginger tea in a robe while watching the rain. Core memory.

Lodtunduh – Budget-Friendly, Low-Key and Spacious

In My Words: “You get way more space for your money, and you’re still close to town if you scooter.”

Griya Valud

• Around $20–$35
• Best for: Budget travelers, remote workers
• Quiet, lots of green space, family-owned
• Limited food options nearby
• Personal take: My cheapest stay in Bali, and honestly one of the most peaceful. Made friends with the dog next door and watched geckos crawl across the ceiling every night.

Rumah Dadong

• Around $60–$90
• Best for: Couples, culture seekers
• Traditional Balinese architecture, garden, breakfast under a frangipani tree
• Not walkable to much, scooter needed
• Personal take: Felt like staying in a private temple. The owner, Pak Made, tells stories about the local area over coffee. That alone is worth it.

Alright—if you’re still wondering where to stay in Ubud, here’s the honest truth: there’s no single “best” spot. It totally depends on your vibe. Wanna be in the heart of town near vegan cafés and yoga classes? Go central. Craving silence, rice fields, and jungle views? Head to the outskirts like Sayan or Tegallalang. There’s a sweet spot for every kind of traveler—whether you’re on a tight budget with a backpack or splurging on a romantic villa with a private plunge pool. Personally, I’ve crashed in $15 homestays and lounged in $200 treehouses—and both were magic in their own ways. Don’t stress too hard on picking the perfect place; just pick something that feels like it fits this version of you. And hey, worst-case? You move after a night or two. That’s the beauty of Bali—there’s always another spot waiting.