Where to Stay in Ubud
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Ubud
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Ubud South (Nyuh Kuning)
A tranquil, village-like area south of the center, known for its artisan workshops and proximity to rice fields.
Our top picks in Ubud South (Nyuh Kuning)
Eco-luxury resort featuring unique bamboo houses set within stunning natural surroundings.
Book NowSocial hostel with private rooms and dorms, offering a pool and communal activities.
Book NowOffers a tranquil escape with a focus on wellness, featuring beautiful rooms and a spa.
Book NowPenestanan
A charming, hilly village area known for its artistic community, yoga centers, and rice paddy views.
Our top picks in Penestanan
Ubud Center
The bustling heart of Ubud, offering a dense concentration of shops, restaurants, and cultural sites.
Our top picks in Ubud Center
Offers a luxurious escape with beautiful gardens and excellent service, steps from the main street.
Book NowChic boutique hotel with a stunning infinity pool overlooking lush greenery.
Book NowPopular choice with multiple pools and good value for its central location.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Ubud South (Nyuh Kuning) | Budget | A tranquil, village-like area south of the center, known for its artisan workshops and proximity to rice fields. | familiescouples |
Penestanan | Budget | A charming, hilly village area known for its artistic community, yoga centers, and rice paddy views. | solo travelersdigital nomads |
Ubud Center | Mid-range | The bustling heart of Ubud, offering a dense concentration of shops, restaurants, and cultural sites. | first-timersfoodies |
Jalan Bisma | Mid-range | A slightly quieter, more bohemian street parallel to the main drag, known for its yoga studios and cafes. | couplessolo travelers |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Ubud
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Ubud
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Ubud. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Ubud
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Ubud
Ubud South (Nyuh Kuning)
BudgetA tranquil, village-like area south of the center, known for its artisan workshops and proximity to rice fields.
- +Quieter and more residential
- +Good for experiencing local life
- +More affordable accommodation
- -Further from the main tourist attractions
- -Requires transport for most activities
Penestanan
BudgetA charming, hilly village area known for its artistic community, yoga centers, and rice paddy views.
- +Very peaceful and scenic
- +Great for wellness and self-discovery
- +Authentic local feel
- -Requires more walking or scooter use to reach central Ubud
- -Fewer high-end dining options
Ubud Center
Mid-rangeThe bustling heart of Ubud, offering a dense concentration of shops, restaurants, and cultural sites.
- +Extremely convenient for sightseeing and dining
- +Wide variety of accommodation and food options
- +Lively atmosphere
- -Can be very crowded and noisy
- -Traffic congestion is common
Jalan Bisma
Mid-rangeA slightly quieter, more bohemian street parallel to the main drag, known for its yoga studios and cafes.
- +More peaceful than Ubud Center
- +Good selection of healthy cafes and yoga retreats
- +Still within easy walking distance to attractions
- -Fewer dining options compared to the center
- -Can feel a bit disconnected from the main buzz
Daily Budget (Budget)
IDR 500000/day
Hidden Gems in Ubud
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Warung Biah Biah
This unassuming warung serves up delicious and authentic Balinese food at incredibly low prices. It's a local favorite for its flavorful dishes like Nasi Campur and sate.
Ubud Art Market
While known, many visitors stick to the main stalls. Explore the smaller alleys and deeper sections of the market to find unique handcrafted souvenirs, textiles, and local art at better prices.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Ubud
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Ubud Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Ubud on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
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Ubud Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Ubud with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Ubud: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Ubud's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Ubud: Scenic Excursion
Escape Ubud for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Ubud Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Ubud's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Ubud
Backpackers in Ubud: FAQ
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