3 Weeks in Bali Itinerary – Perfect Bali Route & Travel Guide
Bali, an island of mesmerizing beauty and vibrant culture, has become a dream destination for couples and adventurers alike. At VayCay Couple, we didn’t just visit Bali; we lived it. From sunset-kissed beaches and tranquil rice terraces to adrenaline-packed adventures, we crafted the ultimate 3-week Bali itinerary to make every moment count. Whether you’re a beach lover, a culture enthusiast, or an adventurer, our route promises to capture the essence of Asia in an unforgettable way.
Week 1: Embrace Culture, Nature, and Romance in Ubud
Days 1-3: Ubud – A Journey into the Heart of Bali
Touch down in Ubud, where lush jungles and rice terraces await. We kicked off our journey at a serene jungle retreat, waking up to the sounds of nature. Our first stop was the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary—where playful monkeys add a touch of adventure. Watching the monkeys curiously inspect our backpacks (with the enthusiasm of a kid opening a Christmas present) was a hilarious way to start our Bali adventure. One cheeky little guy even made off with Dan’s sunglasses. But hey, a monkey with stylish shades? Only in Bali!
We spent our days exploring the town’s art markets, getting lost in the labyrinth of colourful stalls. On a whim, we stopped at a tiny corner stall for some Balinese street food and ended up meeting the friendliest vendor named Wayan. He told us stories of his childhood in Ubud and introduced us to his special grilled corn recipe—coated in a spicy-sweet sambal that was unlike anything we’d ever tasted. It became our go-to snack every evening!
Days 4-6: Spiritual Escapes and Sunrise Magic
The journey continued with a visit to Tirta Empul Temple. Participating in the holy water ritual wasn’t just a touristy thing to do; it felt like a spiritual cleansing. Standing in line with the locals, we could feel the serenity and reverence in the air. Amy, usually the more sceptical one, said it was one of the most peaceful experiences she’s ever had, as the cool water washed away our worries. It was a beautiful reminder of the rich spiritual culture woven into every corner of Bali.
On Day 5, we ventured out at the crack of dawn for the Mount Batur Sunrise Trek. There’s something surreal about hiking up a volcano in the dark, guided only by flashlights and the dim glow of the stars. When we reached the summit, a sea of clouds lay beneath us, and as the sun slowly peeked over the horizon, painting the sky with hues of pink and orange, we both felt a sense of awe that words can’t capture. The breakfast of banana sandwiches and hot coffee prepared by local guides added a cozy touch to that unforgettable morning.
Days 7: Tegalalang Rice Terraces
We wrapped up our time in Ubud with a visit to the famous Tegalalang Rice Terraces. Wandering along the paths that weave through the terraces felt like stepping into a living painting. We stumbled upon a hidden swing overlooking the fields, and although it was a little cliché, we couldn’t resist. As Amy swung out into the air, laughing with a mixture of exhilaration and nerves, the view of endless green made it all worth it.
Week 2: Beach Bliss and Coastal Adventures in Seminyak & Canggu
Days 8-10: Seminyak – Sunsets and Stylish Stays
From Ubud, we headed to Seminyak, checking into a beachfront hotel that was pure paradise. Our favourite memory here? Sipping cocktails at Potato Head Beach Club while watching the sun sink into the ocean. The DJ played chill tunes, the breeze carried the scent of the sea, and the moment felt like something out of a movie.
One day, we spontaneously joined a Balinese cooking class. Neither of us are master chefs, but learning to make nasi goreng and sate lilit with the help of a patient Balinese grandma turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. We laughed as our skewers didn’t quite hold together, but the smiles and satisfied taste-testing made it a memory worth savouring.
Days 11-13: Canggu – Surfing and Sunset Vibes
Next up was Canggu, the hipster heart of Bali. The vibe in Canggu was electric—beach bars, surfboards, and smoothies everywhere. David, being the brave one, tried his hand at surfing at Batu Bolong Beach. It was his first time, and while he may not have caught the perfect wave, the moment he stood up (for all of three seconds) was met with cheering from fellow beginners. It was all part of the experience!
Evenings in Canggu were all about exploring its café scene and partying by the beach. La Brisa became our go-to spot, with its boho decor, incredible seafood, and relaxed vibe. One night, while enjoying a seafood platter, we ended up chatting with another couple from Canada. Hours passed as we swapped travel stories and watched the moonlight dance on the waves.
Week 3: The Nusa Islands & Uluwatu’s Cliffside Charms
Days 14-16: Nusa Penida – Hidden Treasures and Turquoise Waters
No trip to Bali is complete without visiting Nusa Penida. After a bumpy boat ride and some dramatic waves, we reached this little slice of heaven. From the iconic Kelingking Beach (or as we called it, the T-Rex lookout) to the crystal-clear waters of Angel’s Billabong, Nusa Penida was a photographer’s dream. We even managed to find a secret spot where only a handful of locals were swimming—a little slice of paradise away from the crowds.
David convinced me to try cliff diving at Broken Beach. I was terrified, but with some encouragement, I took the plunge. The feeling of freefall was exhilarating, and emerging from the water to David’s cheering made me feel invincible.
Days 17-19: Uluwatu – Cliffside Sunsets and Temple Magic
We returned to the mainland to explore the cliffs of Uluwatu. This was the Bali we had always dreamt of—jagged cliffs, roaring waves, and ancient temples. Watching the Kecak Dance at Uluwatu Temple with the sunset as a backdrop was pure magic. There’s something hypnotic about the rhythmic chanting of the performers, and the energy of the place was surreal.
One of our most romantic evenings was at Jimbaran Beach, enjoying a seafood dinner under the stars. Our table was right on the sand, and the candlelight made it all the more enchanting. We toasted to a journey that exceeded every expectation.
Days 20-21: Saying Goodbye to Bali
We spent our final days revisiting our favourite spots and soaking up every last moment. Bali had become more than just a destination; it felt like a journey of self-discovery, growth, and connection. We left with sun-kissed skin, full hearts, and stories that we’ll share for a lifetime.
Final Thoughts & Travel Tips from VayCay Couple
Bali has an allure that goes beyond its beautiful beaches and temples. It’s a place where every sunset feels like a postcard, where every new experience brings a sense of wonder, and where every smile feels like a connection. As a couple, Bali allowed us to push our limits, share laughs, and create memories we’ll always cherish.
Tips for Your Bali Adventure:
- Rent a Scooter, But Stay Safe: It’s the best way to explore, but be cautious—traffic can be intense.
- Mix Luxury and Local: Stay in a range of places—from chic beachfront villas to homely jungle huts.
- Respect and Immerse: Take the time to learn about and engage with the local culture. It makes every moment richer.
We hope our journey inspires you to create your own Bali adventure. Until next time, happy travels from VayCay Couple!