Ubud is the heartbeat of Bali’s cultural soul. Its lush rice paddies, ancient temples, and bustling markets make it a must-visit destination. But what really sets Ubud apart are its vibrant tours that blend history, nature, and art into memorable experiences. Whether you’re short on time or looking for an evening spectacle, Ubud offers options that capture its essence. We love the Ubud City Tour I, especially for its combination of wildlife, culture, and natural beauty packed into a half-day visit. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a quick yet comprehensive introduction to Bali’s artistic capital.
For those craving entertainment, the Ubud: Dance Show + Dinner at Lost City delivers an engaging night out with immersive storytelling and interactive dance. If you want a taste of ancient spice magic, the Mystic Dinner at Oracle of Spice Lemuria offers a creative culinary journey rooted in Bali’s legendary flavors. And for travelers with a full day to explore, the Ubud City Tour II combines cultural sights with scenic rice terraces—great for those wanting a deeper dive into Ubud’s diverse highlights.
1. Ubud City Tour I: Monkey Forest, Ubud Palace, Art Market, and Waterfall
At number 1 on our list is this popular half-day tour that hits four of Ubud’s most iconic sites. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick, private experience without the hassle of navigating alone. Starting with the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, you’ll see about 340 Crab-eating Macaque monkeys in their natural habitat, along with ancient temples. The guide shares stories about Balinese spirituality and local wildlife, making it both fun and educational.
Next, you’ll visit the Ubud Palace (Puri Saren), a beautifully preserved royal residence still used for cultural performances. It’s a lively spot where you can soak in Balinese architecture and watch traditional dance shows if time permits. Then, the Ubud Traditional Art Market offers a chance to browse everything from silver jewelry to handcrafted textiles—ideal for souvenir shopping. The tour concludes with a visit to Tegenungan Waterfall, where you can snap a few Instagram-worthy photos or take a refreshing dip.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and personalized approach—no waiting for other groups, and direct hotel transfers ensure you maximize your Bali time. Reviewers praise the professional guides and “helpfulness” in capturing memories and explaining cultural nuances. At just $45, it’s a value-packed way to explore Ubud’s highlights in a relaxed manner.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a balanced taste of wildlife, culture, and nature in a manageable half-day format.
2. Ubud: Dance Show + Dinner at Lost City – Story of Humanity
For around $23, this evening experience combines dinner with an immersive storytelling show that beautifully blends dance, mythology, and technology. It’s designed for those who want to experience Ubud’s artistic side after sunset. The show is set in the fantastical Lost City and involves choosing your allegiance—either the Lemurian side, connected to nature, or the Atlantean side, linked to technology. This choice influences your interaction with the performers, making it a personalized adventure.
The buffet dinner offers vegan, vegetarian, and halal options, ensuring everyone’s dietary needs are met. The performance itself is dynamic—dancers interact with the audience, telling a story of conflict and harmony between two civilizations. The use of fire, costumes, and storytelling creates an engaging atmosphere that appeals to families, couples, and culture lovers alike.
Reviewers highlight the interactive nature of the show, calling it “an incredible evening” with “superb choreography.” Its short duration makes it easy to fit into a busy schedule while still offering a memorable taste of Bali’s performative arts. This tour suits anyone seeking a unique night out with a storytelling twist.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting entertainment combined with a relaxed dinner, especially if you enjoy immersive, interactive shows.
3. Ubud Mystic Dinner at Oracle of Spice Lemuria The Lost City
At number 3, this mystic dinner experience offers a creative culinary journey rooted in ancient Bali. For just $17 per person, you get to participate in spice-related magic by selecting a card from the Oracle of Spice and preparing your own dish from fresh ingredients. The focus here is on balancing flavors and discovering your Spice Destiny, making it more than just a meal—it’s a ritual of discovery.
The experience involves consulting an Oracle Grimoire, choosing from bread, vegetables, meats, and ancient spices, and then crafting a personalized dish inspired by Balinese lore. It’s suited for curious food lovers who want to go beyond typical dining and engage with Bali’s legendary spice traditions. The setting is intimate, and the guide shares stories about spice properties and ancient recipes.
While this experience is short at about 2 hours, it’s packed with hands-on participation, making it perfect for travelers interested in culinary storytelling and interactive dining. Reviewers mention the unique atmosphere and the joy of creating something meaningful while learning about Bali’s flavors.
Bottom Line: Best for adventurous foodies who want a hands-on, mystical culinary experience without a hefty time commitment.
4. Ubud City Tour II: Monkey Forest, Palace, Art Market, and Rice Terrace
This full-day tour packs a comprehensive look at Ubud in about 8 hours, ideal for travelers who want a deep dive into Bali’s culture and scenery. Starting with the Sacred Monkey Forest, you’ll encounter the lively macaques in their lush surroundings, with the guide sharing insights into their importance in Balinese spiritual life. The visit to Ubud Palace and the Art Market offers a chance to explore local traditions and buy authentic souvenirs.
What makes this tour stand out is the additional highlight: a visit to the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, where you can take a scenic walk or simply enjoy the stunning views. The rice terraces are a classic Bali sight and perfect for photography or a gentle hike, at your own expense for a donation to the farmer. Private transfers ensure comfort and flexibility throughout the day.
Reviewers note that this balanced itinerary is especially good for those who want a comprehensive taste of Ubud’s natural and cultural highlights. Some mention that the Palace might be less exciting, but the monkey forest and rice terrace make up for it. At $65, the value lies in the combination of multiple must-see sights with personalized attention.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want an all-around Ubud experience without rushing.
How to Choose the Right Ubud Tour for You
Picking the perfect Ubud tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re short on time but want a quick immersion into wildlife, culture, and waterfalls, the Ubud City Tour I is an excellent choice. For a full day of exploring the rice terraces and cultural sites, the Ubud City Tour II offers a more complete experience.
Those seeking evening entertainment will love the interactive dance show with dinner—perfect for a relaxed night out. Meanwhile, culinary adventurers intrigued by ancient spices should consider the Mystic Dinner at Oracle of Spice Lemuria, which combines storytelling with hands-on cooking.
When booking, consider your physical stamina—the rice terrace hike can be gentle or more active—and your interest in cultural versus scenic highlights. The tours range from budget-friendly options at around $17 to more comprehensive full-day adventures at $65. To avoid missing out, especially during peak seasons, it’s wise to book early and confirm pickup arrangements.
Ubud offers a variety of tours that cater to different tastes and schedules, from quick cultural snapshots to immersive full-day explorations. Whether you want to meet monkeys, watch a mesmerizing dance, or craft your own spice blend, there’s a tour that fits your Bali adventure perfectly. Consider what kind of experience will leave you with the best memories, and don’t hesitate to book ahead—these popular tours fill up fast.