A complete guide to planning your own trip to Bali, from A to Z.

When you think of Bali, what image comes to mind? Is it the endless stretch of white sand beaches, with palm trees swaying over the crystal-clear water? It's no exaggeration to call Bali 'paradise on Earth.' If you've fallen for the sweet, dreamy yet peaceful beauty of this island, continue reading our guide to self-guided Bali travel, shared by Mytour below!

Essential tips for traveling to Bali - What’s the best season to visit Bali?

What’s the best season to visit Bali? This is undoubtedly a common question for many travelers planning a trip to the island. In truth, any season in Bali is beautiful. However, certain times of the year experience a heavy influx of visitors due to high tourist season, or because of the ideal weather conditions for a vacation. Therefore, choosing the right time to visit Bali is very important. It will directly affect the success of your trip.

Spring is the best time to visit Bali (Image source: Collected)

According to Bali travel tips, visitors can consider three key travel periods to explore Bali:

• Rainy season: Lasts from November to March. Although the rainy season is not ideal for traveling to Bali, the costs are relatively low and the crowds are smaller. If you're looking to save money and don't mind the weather, this might be a good time to visit Bali.

• Sunny season: From April to October. Although it's not peak tourist season, this period offers a perfect balance. The costs remain stable, the weather is mild with little rain, and the sea is calm, making it a great time for a relaxing vacation and exploration. According to Bali travel tips, this is the best time to enjoy a peaceful retreat on the island.

• Peak season: From June to September. As this coincides with summer, Bali sees an influx of tourists. You’ll likely be shocked by the sudden increase in prices during this period. However, the advantage of visiting Bali during peak season is the lively atmosphere. If you enjoy a bustling environment and have the budget to match, this could be the time for you!

What should you prepare when visiting Bali?

Bali Entry Visa Requirements

Many travelers wonder if a visa is required to visit Bali, or what documents are needed to travel to the island. Don't worry! Mytour will clarify all of your questions right now. 

According to Bali travel tips, Indonesia is part of the ASEAN group, along with Vietnam. Therefore, Vietnamese visitors can travel to Bali with just their passport, without needing a visa. To enter Indonesia, all you need is a regular passport, which allows you to stay in Indonesia for up to 30 days. However, if you overstay this period, you will face a fine. 

If you plan to stay in Bali longer than expected, you will need a visa. To apply for a visa, make sure to prepare the following documents:

• Visa application form.

• Original passport and notarized copy.

• Passport-sized photo as per the required specifications.

• Personal and family information form.

In addition, Bali (Indonesia) only offers visa exemptions for citizens of 11 countries: Chile, Hong Kong, Brunei, Morocco, Macau, Peru, the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, and Malaysia. Therefore, as a Vietnamese citizen, you are fully exempt from a visa to enter Bali.

Entry Procedures for Bali

Although Vietnam citizens are granted visa exemption for Bali, you still need a passport for smooth entry. If you forget important documents or fail to comply with the regulations, entry will be denied. When going through the entry process at the airport, make sure to have all necessary documents ready:

• Bring identification: National ID card, passport valid for more than 6 months.
• Flight ticket to Bali.
• Completed immigration form with all required details and signed confirmation.

Currency in Indonesia

According to Bali travel tips, the local people only use the Rupiah. The exchange rate is: 1 IDR = 1.6 VND and 1 USD = 14,493.63 IDR. In practice, both USD and Rupiah are accepted for transactions in Indonesia. However, it’s quite difficult to find places in Vietnam that exchange Rupiah, as only a few shops offer this service.

The currency of Indonesia is called Rupiah (Image source: Collected)

If you're looking to exchange Vietnamese Dong for Indonesian Rupiah, there's no need to do it before your trip in Vietnam. You can exchange directly in Indonesia at local banks. However, to avoid any risk of fraud, it’s recommended to visit the national banks in Indonesia for a safer transaction.

Language 

According to the experience of solo travelers to Bali, the locals on the island can speak English fairly well, and their pronunciation is relatively easy to understand. So, feel free to communicate confidently and ask for help from them if needed!

Essential items to pack when traveling to Bali

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, it is essential to pack the necessary items and supplies for your journey. Here's a list of things you should consider bringing along.

• Clothing: Before heading to Bali, it's important to check the weather conditions to pack appropriately. Understanding the temperature and season characteristics will help you select the right clothes. If you’re traveling during the rainy season, be sure to pack extra long-sleeved clothing. Indonesia, known for its temples and mosques, also requires respectful attire, so include some modest outfits for visits to religious sites.

• Medication: This is a crucial item to pack for any trip. Imagine falling ill in a foreign country without access to the right medicine. To avoid such a scenario, ensure that you bring essential medications for common ailments so that you can enjoy your travels without worry.

• Personal Items: Aside from clothing and medicine, don’t forget essential personal items such as: toothbrush, face towel, sunglasses, sunscreen, shower gel, portable charger, shampoo, etc.

Transportation Options for Bali Travel

Airplane Tickets for Your Journey to Bali

The fastest and safest way to reach Bali is by airplane. Nowadays, several airlines offer flights from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to Bali. You can book your flight with reliable airlines such as Vietnam Airlines or Vietjet Air.

Moreover, some flights offer direct routes to Bali, making it easier for you to plan your trip according to the flight schedule. You can book affordable tickets through platforms like Mytour or other trusted agencies. Airfares typically range from 4,000,000 VND to 12,000,000 VND per person (round trip).

Popular Transportation Options in Bali

According to independent travel experiences in Bali, the island has a diverse public transportation system that provides tourists with plenty of options. Here are some of the common modes of transportation in Bali that you can consider.

Motorcycle

Motorcycles are a widely used mode of transport in Bali and a popular option for many visitors. Renting a motorbike in Bali is also quite simple as long as you have an international driving permit.

The daily rental fee for a motorcycle is around 60,000 IDR (approximately 95,000 VND). Moreover, fuel prices in Bali are relatively low, starting at just 15,000 VND per liter, making it easy to travel freely without concerns about fuel costs.

Bicycle

Bicycle rentals are quite affordable, with prices around 250,000 VND per day. Riding a bike not only offers an effective way to improve your health, but it also allows visitors to enjoy the fresh air of Bali.

Taxi

If you're traveling short distances, consider taking a traditional taxi. In Bali, taxi fares aren't based on distance, but rather on a price you and the driver agree upon beforehand. So, it’s a good idea to check the distance first before booking the ride. The average taxi fare in Bali starts from 8,000 IDR per kilometer (about 15,000 VND per kilometer).

Should You Book a Hotel When Traveling to Bali?

Bali offers a wide variety of accommodations, ranging from luxurious to budget-friendly options, so travelers can choose according to their preferences. If you have a comfortable budget or specific needs for amenities, you can opt for high-end, luxury hotels. Alternatively, if you're looking for just a place to stay, you can go for cheaper hotels or budget hostels in Bali.

Hotels and resorts in Bali have experienced significant growth (Image source: Collected)

Here’s a suggested price list for different types of accommodations, ranging from luxurious to affordable, that you may want to consider:

In general, hotel rates in Bali range from 500,000 VND to 1,000,000 VND per room per night, including all amenities. For those looking to save, hostels are also an option, with prices ranging from 200,000 VND to 300,000 VND per room per night.

The Hottest Tourist Spots in Bali

Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot Temple is located about 13 kilometers from the town of Tabana. The temple sits on a large rocky outcrop amidst the vast ocean. Despite enduring hundreds of large waves over many decades and even suffering erosion in 1980, the temple remains intact. It is estimated that about a third of the stone foundation on the island was originally constructed by the temple itself.

The ancient Tanah Lot Temple is one of Bali's most famous landmarks (Image source: Collected)

When the tide is low, a single black stone path appears leading to the temple. As you walk along this trail, you will witness the legendary stone platform around the fountain, surrounded by sea snakes.

According to Bali travel tips, the best time to visit Tanah Lot Temple is from January to April or from mid-September to December. Additionally, Tanah Lot is a prime spot to enjoy breathtaking sunsets and sunrises. The ideal time to witness the scenery is after 4 p.m. and before 6 p.m.

• Address: Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82121, Indonesia

• Opening hours: From 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

• Entrance fee: 60,000 Rp (99,000 VND) for adults and 33,000 VND for children.

Kuta Beach

Bãi biển Kuta được mệnh danh là một trong những bãi biển đẹp nhất Bali. Đến đây, du khách sẽ hoàn toàn choáng ngợp trước khung cảnh lãng mạn, ngọt ngào của bãi cát trắng vô tận, làn nước biển xanh trong vắt. Theo kinh nghiệm du lịch đảo Bali, nơi đây cũng là “tọa độ” lý tưởng để chiêm ngưỡng vẻ đẹp của hoàng hôn. 

• Địa chỉ: Biển nằm ở phía Tây hòn đảo Bali và gần sân bay quốc tế Ngurah Rai.

• Thời gian đẹp nhất để ngắm cảnh biển: Từ tháng 4 đến hết tháng 8 hằng năm. Bởi vì, đây là thời điểm có những đợt sóng đánh đẹp nhất trong năm.

Cung điện nước Tirta Gangga

Nơi đây được mệnh danh là cung điện xa hoa, đắt đỏ nhất ở Bali. Hằng năm cung điện nước Tirta Gangga thu hút hàng triệu du khách viếng thăm, tham quan. Khi đặt chân đến đây, bạn có thể dạo bước trong những khu vườn xanh mát và check-in với tiểu cảnh hồ nước được thiết kế vô cùng ấn tượng. 

The mesmerizing beauty of Tirta Gangga Water Palace (Image source: Collected)

The complex of buildings forms an enchanting and ancient atmosphere, with intricate sculptures and interwoven ponds. All of this creates a magnificent, vibrant landscape. Visitors here can easily transform into royalty, donning traditional attire while surrounded by a fairytale-like environment with a touch of mysticism.

• Address: Tirta Gangga Water Palace is located in the village of Ababi, Karangasem Kingdom, Bali, Indonesia, approximately from Denpasar city.

• Opening hours: From 6 AM to 6 PM.

• Ticket price: Around 30,000 IDR per person.

Bali Swing

When it comes to the most thrilling experiences, Bali Swing is definitely a must-try – one of Bali's signature attractions. It's no surprise that the Bali Swing is often referred to as the "Death Swing" and the most daring swing in the world. Sitting atop this swing, hundreds of meters high, you'll feel as if you're one with the cool breeze while soaking in the breathtaking views of Bali's picturesque scenery.

The Bali Swing ride is highly addictive, taking visitors through a range of emotions. At first, you'll feel stunned and anxious. But in the blink of an eye, the excitement kicks in, and you'll forget all your worries, feeling recharged with positive energy. There's nothing more exhilarating than soaring above the sea of clouds, blending with the refreshing wind.

• Address: Located at Jalan Dewi Saraswati, Bali, Indonesia.

Borobudur Temple

Few people know that a magnificent Buddhist monument stands in a predominantly Muslim country like Indonesia. This remarkable site is the Borobudur Temple, both ancient and solemn. Built during the Sailendra dynasty, a time when Buddhism was revered, the name Borobudur translates to 'The Temple on the High Mountain.'

The Borobudur temple complex consists of numerous small stupas, with the main stupa towering at 42 meters high and a total of 12 levels. To reach the summit of this monumental structure, visitors must ascend over 5 kilometers of staircases across multiple tiers.

Paying respects and seeking peace and fortune at Borobudur Temple (Image Source: Collected)

Each level of the tower is adorned with exquisitely carved reliefs. These artworks vividly depict the life of Buddha, from his earthly existence to his attainment of Nirvana. According to Bali travel tips, if you're a follower of Buddhism, don't miss this iconic site!

• Borobudur Temple Address: Jl. Badrawati, Kw. Candi Borobudur, Borobudur, Kec. Borobudur, Kabupaten Magelang, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia.

• Opening Hours: From 6 AM to 5 PM.

• Ticket Price: 560,000 VND - 800,000 VND per person.

Bali's Heaven Gate

It would truly be a shame to visit Bali without experiencing the famed Heaven Gate. The intricate and carefully designed gate has become one of the most iconic symbols of Bali. You will often spot this impressive gate in travel brochures and Bali travel guides.

Standing before Bali's Heaven Gate, you'll be awestruck by the grandeur of the natural landscape. The clouds and mountains seem to merge into one, forming a breathtaking scene. This towering gate is not just a physical structure but symbolizes the boundary between the outside world and the sacred temple beyond.

• Address: Jl. Pura Telaga Mas Lempuyang, Tri Buana, Kec. Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80852, Indonesia

• Opening Hours: From 6 AM to 7 PM.

Angel’s Billabong

If you ever wish to immerse yourself in the 'spring of nature,' then a visit to the Angel's Billabong infinity pool is a must! Bali has been gifted with a priceless treasure - the Angel’s Billabong pool. Here, visitors can unwind and soak in the refreshing waters while gazing at the endless ocean before them.

The stunning Angel's Billabong infinity pool has become a must-visit spot for all travelers (Image source: Collected)

According to Bali travel tips, visitors should aim to arrive around 8 AM, as this is when the tide is low. On the other hand, during high tide, the waves crash into the pool and draw water towards the shore, making swimming dangerous for tourists.

• Infinity pool address: Located on Noosa Island, Penida, Bali, Angel's Billabong is one of the most unique destinations in the area.

What to Eat in Bali?

According to Bali travel tips, most dishes on the island are spicy, rich in sauces, and rare in green vegetables. However, this doesn't mean the food isn't delicious. Here are some of the most tempting dishes in Bali that you should try at least once.

Nasi Campur

Nasi Campur is considered the signature mixed rice dish of Bali. A full serving typically includes: a portion of white rice in the center, stir-fried eggplant or green beans, curry meat, and a fried egg. A special touch is the crispy prawn crackers that add extra allure to the dish.

Nasi Campur is a famous mixed rice dish that can only be found on the island of Bali (Image source: Collection)

Babi Guling (suckling pig roast)

Vietnamese tourists are likely familiar with this dish, but the roast suckling pig in Bali is prepared quite differently than in Vietnam. The chef marinates the meat with a mixture of coriander, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, salam leaves, black pepper, garlic, red shallots, ginger, and galangal.

After the meat has absorbed the flavors, the chef roasts it over charcoal until it is perfectly cooked with crispy skin. The meat is typically tender, sweet, and melts in your mouth.

Mie Goreng (fried noodles)

If you've ever been enamored by the taste of Indomie instant noodles, you definitely shouldn't miss Bali's famous fried noodles. The thick, golden noodles stir-fried with bean sprouts, diced chicken, and coconut milk add a delicious depth to the dish.

Fried noodles is a famous dish in Indonesia (Image source: Collected)

Sate Lembat (grilled skewered meat)

You can find Sate Lembat all over Bali. The meat is finely chopped into small pieces and then pounded into a paste. After that, the mixture is marinated with spices to enhance its delicious aroma. Once grilled, the meat gives off an irresistible fragrance and has a delightful, easy-to-eat flavor.

Travel tips for first-time visitors to Bali

For tourists who are not very experienced with traveling to Bali, there are several important things to keep in mind:

• When visiting temples, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully to show reverence.

• Never use your left hand to accept anything or touch another person.

• During religious ceremonies, maintain a respectful silence.

• Avoid walking in front of someone who is praying.

• If your Bali trip includes elderly people, children, or pregnant women, select sightseeing spots that do not require strenuous climbing.

• Make sure to carry a map or have a navigation app handy to avoid getting lost.

This concludes all the detailed information about Bali travel tips. We hope that the insights shared by Mytour will help you have a truly unforgettable experience in Bali. If you would like to book a tour to Indonesia, please contact Mytour through their hotline 028 3827 0404 for free advice!