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Stay in Seminyak or Canggu for cafés and nightlife, Ubud for rice terraces and culture, Uluwatu for cliffs and surf, and Nusa Dua or Sanur for calm family beaches. Before you land, budget IDR 500,000 (about US$30) for the 30-day visa on arrival and IDR 150,000 (about US$10) for the Bali tourist levy, per person.
Which Bali area should you choose?
| Area | Best for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Seminyak | Beach clubs, restaurants, shopping | Busy and central for day trips |
| Canggu | Surf, cafés, digital nomads | Traffic can be heavy |
| Ubud | Rice terraces, yoga, culture | Inland, no beach |
| Uluwatu | Cliff views, surf, sunsets | Spread out; you need transport |
| Nusa Dua | Families, big resorts, calm water | Quiet, gated resort area |
| Sanur | Relaxed families, older travellers | Gentle beach, boats to Nusa Penida |
Bali traffic is slow, so transfer times from the airport vary a lot. The south (Nusa Dua, Sanur, Seminyak) is closest; Ubud and Canggu usually take longest. Book an airport transfer if you land late.
What do you pay to enter Bali?
- Visa on arrival (VOA or e-VOA): IDR 500,000 per person for 30 days, extendable once for another 30. You can apply online at least 48 hours before you fly or pay on arrival. A fee increase has been proposed, so check the official immigration site before you travel.
- Bali tourist levy: IDR 150,000 per person, including children. Pay only on the official Love Bali app or website, or at the airport counter, and keep the voucher on your phone.
How do you budget a Bali trip?
| Item | How it is charged |
|---|---|
| Visa on arrival | IDR 500,000 per person |
| Tourist levy | IDR 150,000 per person |
| Hotel or villa | Per night, check live prices |
| Driver or scooter | Per day |
| Flights to Denpasar (DPS) | Search below |
How can you save in Bali?
- Base yourself in one or two areas instead of moving every night: traffic eats your days.
- Hire a driver for a full day of sightseeing rather than several short rides.
- Use an eSIM for maps and ride apps from the moment you land.
What should you read next?
Frequently asked questions
How much is the Bali visa on arrival?
IDR 500,000 per person (about US$30) for 30 days, extendable once by 30 days. A higher fee has been proposed, so check before you travel.
How much is the Bali tourist tax?
IDR 150,000 per person, paid once per trip on the official Love Bali app or website or at the airport.
Which area of Bali is best for first-timers?
Seminyak for beaches and restaurants, or split your stay between Seminyak and Ubud to see both coast and culture.
Which Bali area is best for families?
Nusa Dua and Sanur, which have calmer water and quieter streets.