Introduction
Bali is often seen as a luxury destination, but it’s also one of the most affordable places to visit if you plan carefully. From budget-friendly accommodations to cheap yet delicious food and free activities, you can explore Bali without breaking the bank.
This guide will show you how to enjoy the best of Bali on a budget while ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience.
1. Budget-Friendly Accommodations
a. Guesthouses and Homestays
Stay at locally run guesthouses for authentic Balinese hospitality at low prices.
Many homestays include breakfast and offer clean, cozy rooms.
Best Areas: Ubud, Sanur, and Canggu.
Tip: Use platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, or Agoda to find deals under $20 per night.
b. Budget Hotels and Hostels
Hostels in areas like Kuta and Seminyak provide affordable dorms or private rooms.
Look for hotels with basic amenities like Wi-Fi, AC, and pools.
c. Mid-Range Villas
For groups or families, renting a small villa can be surprisingly affordable. Split the cost for comfort and privacy.
2. Cheap Eats: Where to Find Delicious Food on a Budget
a. Warungs (Local Eateries)
Eat at traditional warungs, where meals are tasty, filling, and cost less than $3.
Popular Dishes: Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Mie Goreng (fried noodles), and Nasi Campur (rice with sides).
Where to Go:
Warung Bu Made (Kuta)
Warung Sopa (Ubud)
b. Street Food
Explore Bali’s food stalls for cheap snacks like satay skewers, corn on the cob, and pisang goreng (fried banana).
c. Cafes for Healthy and Affordable Meals
Many cafes offer smoothie bowls, salads, and sandwiches for $4–6.
Cafes to Try: Crate Cafe (Canggu), Milk & Madu (Ubud).
3. Free and Low-Cost Activities
a. Explore Bali’s Beaches
Enjoy Bali’s stunning beaches for free!
Best Options: Padang Padang Beach, Sanur Beach, and Nyang Nyang Beach.
b. Visit Rice Terraces
Take a scenic walk through the Tegalalang Rice Terraces (small entrance fee of $1–2).
c. Discover Temples
Many temples charge minimal entrance fees ($2–3). Must-visit temples include:
Uluwatu Temple (sunset views).
Tirta Empul (holy water purification).
d. Hike Mount Batur for Sunrise
For $15–20, you can join a guided group to hike Mount Batur and witness Bali’s breathtaking sunrise.
4. Getting Around Bali on a Budget
a. Scooter Rentals
Renting a scooter is the cheapest way to explore Bali ($5–7 per day). Ensure you have a valid international driver’s license and wear a helmet.
b. Ride-Hailing Apps
Use Grab or Gojek for affordable rides around towns.
c. Shared Transport
Book shared shuttle buses for longer trips between Ubud, Canggu, Kuta, and Uluwatu.
5. Saving Money on Shopping and Souvenirs
Shop at local markets like Ubud Art Market or Kuta Market for handmade goods.
Bargain politely—most prices are negotiable.
Buy from smaller shops to support local artisans.
6. Staying Healthy on a Budget
Drink only bottled or filtered water to avoid health issues.
For minor ailments, consult BaliDoc, a telehealth service that connects you to local doctors quickly and affordably.
Conclusion
Bali offers incredible experiences that don’t have to come with a luxury price tag. By choosing budget-friendly accommodations, eating at local warungs, and enjoying free activities, you can have a fulfilling and affordable trip. For any health concerns during your adventure, BaliDoc provides reliable and affordable medical support.
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