If you’re searching for a budget travel itinerary for Bali 7 days, you’re probably trying to balance two things at once: not blowing your savings but still soaking up the island’s mix of temples, waterfalls, beaches, rice terraces, and yes, the occasional cheeky monkey. I’ve been there myself—planning a Bali trip on a tight budget isn’t as complicated as people think. The secret is knowing where to stay, what transport hacks to use, and how to structure your days so you’re not just running around like a stressed-out tourist.
Let’s break this down day by day while keeping it realistic, wallet-friendly, and still packed with those “wow, I’m actually here” kind of moments.
Day 1: Arrival in Bali and Settling into Your Budget Base
Most international flights land in Denpasar (Ngurah Rai Airport), and this first day is all about getting your bearings. If you’re trying to save money, skip the pricey airport taxis. Instead, download Grab or Gojek apps (they’re like Uber for Southeast Asia). A ride to popular areas like Kuta, Seminyak, or Canggu usually costs between 80,000 to 120,000 IDR ($5–8).
For budget stays, areas like Kuta or Canggu are ideal for your first night. Kuta has tons of cheap hostels, but if you want a slightly calmer vibe with rice fields and surf, Canggu might feel better. I’ve stayed at a guesthouse in Canggu for about $12 a night with free breakfast and a scooter rental right outside the door.
This first day, don’t plan much. Walk around, get your SIM card (Telkomsel or XL, usually $5–10 for plenty of data), and grab your first plate of nasi campur at a warung (local eatery). Street food isn’t just affordable—it’s part of the whole Bali rhythm.
Day 2: Exploring Ubud’s Temples and Rice Terraces
No Bali trip feels complete without Ubud. It’s about 1.5–2 hours from the south, and you can either rent a scooter (50,000–80,000 IDR/day, around $3–5) or arrange a shared shuttle for about $8.
Start with Tegallalang Rice Terraces, which are world-famous and cost just 25,000 IDR ($1.50) to enter. Walking through the terraces feels like stepping into a postcard, though you’ll sweat buckets, so carry water. From there, head to Tirta Empul Temple (entry about 50,000 IDR) where locals and tourists alike cleanse themselves in the holy springs.
A lot of people get stuck paying high prices for food in Ubud’s central cafes. Honestly? Walk two streets away and you’ll find little warungs where a full meal with juice is under $3. That’s where the real flavors are.
If you still have energy, swing by the Ubud Monkey Forest. Just watch your sunglasses—those monkeys are tiny pickpockets.
Day 3: Waterfalls and Hidden Corners Around Ubud
Day three is all about chasing waterfalls. Bali’s waterfalls are incredible and most of them charge a small entry fee (usually 10,000–30,000 IDR).
- Tegenungan Waterfall – one of the easiest to reach, about 20 minutes from Ubud.
- Tibumana Waterfall – more chilled, less crowded, perfect for photos.
- Kanto Lampo Waterfall – looks like water spilling down natural stairs.
Transportation is the tricky part. If you’re confident on a scooter, rent one and map them out. Otherwise, ask around for a local driver—it usually costs $25–30 for the whole day if you share with friends, it’s dirt cheap per person.
After the waterfalls, swing by Campuhan Ridge Walk around sunset. It’s free, peaceful, and feels like a mini escape from the tourist bustle. Grab dinner at a local eatery after, and if you’re a coffee person, Ubud has some seriously strong brews.
Day 4: East Bali Adventures – Lempuyang Temple and Tirta Gangga
Now we move east. Wake up early and head toward Lempuyang Temple, also called the “Gates of Heaven.” Entry is donation-based, but here’s the catch: the famous photo spot has a long queue, sometimes 1–2 hours. Personally, I think the view itself is better than the staged photo, but if it’s on your bucket list, bring patience.
Close by, there’s Tirta Gangga Water Palace. Entry is about 50,000 IDR, and it’s a beautiful place with pools, statues, and koi fish swimming under stepping stones. Super peaceful if you come before the tour buses arrive.
East Bali doesn’t get as much tourist attention, which means food and accommodation are cheaper. I stayed in Amed once for $15 a night and had a bungalow overlooking the ocean. Not fancy, but waking up to the sound of waves? Worth every cent.
Day 5: Northern Bali – Lakes, Mountains, and More Temples
If you want to escape the southern crowds, Northern Bali feels almost like another island. Rent a scooter or arrange a car and head toward Bedugul and the lakes.
First stop: Ulun Danu Beratan Temple (entry 75,000 IDR). You’ve probably seen it on postcards—it’s the temple that seems to float on the water. The mountain air up here is cooler, so bring a light jacket.
Then there’s the Handara Gate, another popular photo spot. It used to be free, now they charge about 30,000 IDR. Honestly, if you’re not into photoshoots, you can skip it.
After that, check out Sekumpul Waterfall, which is hands down one of the most stunning in Bali. Entry plus a local guide is around 150,000 IDR, a bit pricier than others, but worth it. You’ll hike through rice terraces and little villages to reach it.
If you want to stretch your budget further, Northern homestays are cheaper than Ubud or Canggu—around $10–12 per night.
Day 6: Beach Day in South Bali – Uluwatu and Surroundings
After all that temple and waterfall hopping, you’ll crave some beach time. South Bali has some of the best.
Start at Padang Padang Beach (10,000 IDR entry). It’s small but gorgeous, with turquoise water and cliffs framing the sand. Then head to Bingin Beach or Dreamland Beach, both favorites among surfers.
Closer to sunset, make your way to Uluwatu Temple (entry 50,000 IDR). This temple sits on a cliff and the views are ridiculous. Stick around for the Kecak Fire Dance performance—yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also mesmerizing. Tickets are about 150,000 IDR.
Food-wise, Jimbaran beach has seafood BBQs, but they can be pricey. If you’re on a budget, grab food before heading there and just enjoy the beach vibes.
Day 7: Chill, Shop, and Souvenirs Before Departure
Your last day should be easy. Depending on your flight time, you can squeeze in some shopping at Ubud Art Market or Seminyak’s street stalls. Bargaining is normal—just smile and keep it friendly.
If you want to avoid last-minute stress, hang around Sanur. The beach is quieter, food is cheap, and it’s closer to the airport than Canggu or Ubud.
For souvenirs, things like Balinese coffee, sarongs, or wooden carvings are popular. Just remember customs rules when flying home (no animal products or weird liquids).
How Much Does a 7-Day Bali Budget Trip Cost?
Let’s crunch the numbers so you know what to expect. Prices in Bali can fluctuate, but here’s a safe estimate:
- Accommodation: $10–20 per night = $70–140 total
- Meals: $5–10 per day if you eat local = $35–70
- Scooter rental + fuel: about $5/day = $35
- Attractions & entry fees: around $50–80 total
- Extras (SIM, snacks, coffee, souvenirs): $50–70
So, for one week, a budget traveler can easily spend between $250–400 total, flights not included. According to Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism, average international visitors spend more than that per week in Bali, which means you’ll be living comfortably on the budget side compared to most.
Practical Tips That Actually Work
- Always carry small cash; many temples and warungs don’t take cards.
- A reusable water bottle with a filter saves money and plastic.
- Don’t overpack. Laundry is dirt cheap in Bali—about $1 per kilo.
- Grab and Gojek are lifesavers if you’re not into scooters.
- Travel insurance isn’t glamorous, but accidents do happen (especially with scooters).
Getting Around Without Blowing Your Budget
Transportation is where travelers often overspend. Taxis in Bali are notorious for overcharging tourists, especially if you’re coming straight out of the airport looking confused. If you stick with Grab or Gojek, you’ll instantly cut costs. I remember one time a driver tried to charge me 300,000 IDR (about $20) for a ride that ended up costing 80,000 IDR on the app. Always double-check.
If you’re comfortable riding a scooter, that’s where you’ll save the most money and time. Rentals average 70,000 IDR ($4–5) a day, and fuel for a week might cost you another $7–10 total. The tricky part is traffic—it can be chaotic, and driving at night outside tourist areas isn’t the safest. My trick? Use scooters for short rides (like Canggu to Ubud backroads) but for longer day trips, I hire a driver and share costs with other travelers I meet at hostels.
Eating Well Without Spending a Fortune
Bali’s food scene is wild—you can spend $1 for a giant plate at a local warung or $15 on a smoothie bowl at a trendy café. For a budget trip, stick with warungs for your main meals. My go-to is nasi goreng (fried rice with egg and chicken) or mie goreng (fried noodles), usually under 25,000 IDR ($1.50). Add a fresh juice for another dollar and you’re full.
Now, don’t think you’ll be “missing out” by eating cheap. Some of the best flavors I’ve had in Bali were at family-run warungs where the grandma was stirring the pot in the back. The modern cafés are nice for a treat—especially if you’re vegan or craving Western food—but don’t build your trip around them if you’re watching money.
Where to Splurge Just a Little
Even on a budget, it’s worth putting aside a bit of cash for those “only in Bali” experiences. For example:
- Snorkeling in Amed or Menjangan Island – Day trips cost $20–30, including gear.
- Traditional Balinese dance shows in Ubud or Uluwatu – around $10–15 for an evening performance.
- Massage and spa treatments – easily found for $7–10 an hour in Ubud or Canggu.
These aren’t going to blow your budget, but they’ll add those memorable touches to your 7 days in Bali. Personally, I always squeeze in at least two massages during my stay—it’s part of the island rhythm.
Timing Your Days to Avoid Crowds
One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is showing up to popular spots at peak hours. Want to see Tegallalang Rice Terraces without selfie sticks everywhere? Be there at 7 am. Waterfalls? Same rule. I once visited Tegenungan around 3 pm and could barely see the water through the crowds. Next time, I went at 8 am and had the place almost to myself.
So if you’re following this 7-day Bali itinerary on a budget, try to wake up early for sightseeing. Save the afternoons for food, chilling by your homestay pool, or wandering markets. Not only do you dodge the rush, but Bali mornings have this calm, golden light that makes everything more magical.
A Quick Word on Money and Safety
Bring a debit or credit card with no foreign transaction fees, but don’t rely on cards everywhere. ATMs are common, but only use ones attached to banks (less chance of skimming). I usually take out 1–2 million IDR ($70–140) at a time and spread it across my bags and wallet.
Safety-wise, Bali is generally chill. Petty theft can happen if you’re careless with bags at the beach, and yes, scooter accidents are the number one issue for tourists. Just ride slowly, wear a helmet, and don’t drive if you’re not confident. Locals are patient, but traffic rules are more like “suggestions” here.
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