Where to Stay in Ubud 2025: Our Favorite Areas & Best Hotels

We honestly didn’t expect to love Ubud this much — but we did. After spending some time surfing and exploring down south in Uluwatu, arriving here felt like stepping into a different world.

Ubud is lush, spiritual, and surrounded by rice terraces and jungle, making it feel worlds away from the coast. There are many amazing waterfalls near Ubud, tiny cafés hidden under the palm trees, and that peaceful energy that makes you slow down instantly.

We stayed both in the heart of Ubud and a little further north around Tirta Tawar, while also exploring Sayan and Nyuh Kuning on a scooter and on foot. That gave us a real sense of how each part feels — and trust us, choosing the right area truly makes or breaks your stay here.

Even though traffic in the center can feel a bit like Canggu — chaotic scooters and people everywhere — you can still find peaceful corners just a few minutes away.

Staying slightly outside the center makes a huge difference if you want the best of both worlds: easy access to restaurants and attractions without dealing with the busy roads every day.

That’s exactly why we created this ultimate, experience-based guide on where to stay in Ubud — packed with honest recommendations, local insights, and a curated list of the best hotels we’d happily book again.

Where to stay in Ubud: Our experience

Before coming to Ubud, we decided to stay right in the centre — close to all the restaurants, cafés, markets, and attractions. We knew the traffic would be intense, and it definitely was. Not quite as hectic as Canggu, but still a bit overwhelming at times.

The location was unbeatable for exploring on foot, especially since most of the best things to do in Ubud are right around the center, from the Monkey Forest to famous temples, and even the Tegallalang Rice Terrace, just a short drive away.

Still, we quickly realized that staying just a little outside the main streets makes a huge difference in how peaceful your stay feels.

After that, we moved north to Tirta Tawar and stayed at Blue Karma Dijiwa Ubud, which turned out to be unforgettable (more on that later). The area felt calmer and more scenic, with rice fields all around and the sounds of the jungle instead of honking scooters.

Every morning we woke up to jungle views and the smell of fresh air — it couldn’t have been more different from the center.

The only downside was that we had to drive a bit whenever we wanted to try a new café or restaurant, but since we had a scooter, we didn’t mind at all. Honestly, we ended up loving this area way more than expected.

Since we were short on time, we couldn’t stay in Sayan or Nyuh Kuning, but we made sure to explore them properly.

Sayan felt lush and exclusive — it’s where you’ll find some of the most luxurious jungle resorts overlooking the Ayung River.

Nyuh Kuning, on the other hand, had a more local, homey atmosphere, with small family-run cafés and peaceful streets.

Exploring all four gave us a really good understanding of how different each part feels — and that’s exactly what we’ll dive into next. Here’s what we learned about each area and which one might suit you best.

Best areas to stay in Ubud

Before we dive in, here’s a quick map showing the best areas to stay in Ubud so you can easily picture where everything is. It provides a clear understanding of how the main parts are connected.

Ubud Center

If you’re still deciding where to stay in Ubud, the center is the most convenient base for first-timers.

Located right in the heart of everything, Ubud Center is where the town truly comes alive. It’s close to the Ubud Palace, Saraswati Temple, Monkey Forest, Campuhan Ridge Walk, and most of the best cafés, yoga studios, and boutique shops are all within walking distance.

The vibe here is busy but full of energy — scooters weaving through narrow streets, locals selling offerings, and the smell of incense mixing with roasted coffee beans.

We stayed here during the first part of our trip and loved how easily we could explore on foot. We loved ending days at CHORA Mediterranean Restaurant and at Donna Restaurant, which became one of our go-tos for cocktails and a lively atmosphere.

The only thing to keep in mind is the traffic — it can get chaotic, especially around midday. If you don’t mind the buzz, though, being right in the center gives you that Bali experience.

✅ Pros: Super central, walkable, great food and café scene
❌ Cons: Traffic and noise, limited parking
⭐️ Best for: First-time visitors who want to be close to everything and don’t mind the hustle.

Tirta Tawar (North Ubud)

When we compare the best places to stay in Ubud for a peaceful vibe, Tirta Tawar stands out. Just a few minutes’ drive north from the center, Tirta Tawar feels like a completely different world.

This area stretches along a quiet road lined with palm trees, rice paddies, and small local warungs, making it ideal if you want to experience the more peaceful side without being too far from the main attractions.

We stayed here after a few busy days downtown, and honestly, it was one of the best decisions of our trip.

The vibe is calm and green — the kind of place where you wake up to birds, not motorbikes. Our stay at Blue Karma Dijiwa Ubud made it even more special, with jungle views, infinity pools, and a serene atmosphere that instantly slows you down.

It’s a great base if you have a scooter, as you’ll need to ride a few minutes to reach restaurants and cafés. But that small trade-off comes with beautiful views, peaceful walks, and a real sense of space — something that’s rare closer to town.

✅ Pros: Peaceful, scenic, surrounded by rice fields
❌ Cons: Limited cafés within walking distance
⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers looking for tranquility while staying close to main attractions.

Sayan

Heading west from the center, Sayan is a lush, upscale side known for its dramatic jungle valleys and views over the Ayung River. This is where you’ll find some of Bali’s most luxurious hotels, including private villas and boutique resorts tucked deep into the jungle.

We came here on the scooter one afternoon and instantly understood why it’s so famous. The air feels fresh, the traffic disappears, and it looks like a postcard. The whole place feels quiet and secluded, yet still only 10–15 minutes from central Ubud.

If you’re after total privacy, nature, and resort-style comfort, this is where you’ll find it. Just be prepared for higher prices — this part attracts people who don’t mind spending a little extra for peace and breathtaking views.

✅ Pros: Spectacular jungle views, quiet, luxury stays
❌ Cons: Expensive, not walkable
⭐️ Best for: Honeymooners and couples looking for a peaceful jungle escape.

Nyuh Kuning

Just south of the Monkey Forest, Nyuh Kuning feels like a peaceful little village with a calm, local atmosphere. It’s clean, quiet, and easy to walk around — a nice change from the busy centre. You’ll find small cafés, homestays, and yoga studios surrounded by greenery, and the pace of life here feels slower in the best way.

We explored the area on foot, and what we loved the most was how genuine and relaxed it felt. It’s one of those neighborhoods where you can stroll around, grab a smoothie bowl, and watch daily life go by.

Everything you need is nearby, which makes it a great area if you prefer walking over riding a scooter.

If we’d had more time, this is definitely one of the places we’d have liked to stay — quiet, friendly, and easygoing.

✅ Pros: Calm, walkable, close to the Monkey Forest
❌ Cons: Fewer nightlife and restaurant options compared to the centre
⭐️ Best for: Families, long-term visitors, or anyone looking for a peaceful, local base.

Best hotels in Ubud

This list brings together the best places to stay in Ubud — hotels we’ve either stayed in ourselves or would happily book after exploring the area from top to bottom.

We’ve done the hard research so you can easily decide which of the hotels fit your travel style — whether you’re after jungle views, a central stay, or something peaceful surrounded by rice fields.

Best hotels in Ubud Centre

If you want to be close to everything — cafés, markets, and temples — staying in the heart of Ubud is the most convenient choice. It’s lively, walkable, and perfect if you don’t mind a bit of traffic.

• Suntari Homestay $
• 11 on Kajeng $$
• Tejaprana Bisma $$$

Suntari Homestay ($)

If you’re after a simple and affordable stay right in the center, Suntari Homestay is a great pick. The rooms are basic but clean, with private terraces overlooking a small garden — a quiet spot despite being close to Ubud Palace and the main market.

There’s free parking and breakfast included, making it one of the best-value stays in town for budget travelers. If you want a convenient base without spending much, this one’s a solid choice.

⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want a central but peaceful stay.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

11 on Kajeng ($$)

11 on Kajeng is one of the best places to stay in Ubud if you want peace and comfort close to everything. It’s a tranquil paradise just a 10-minute walk from the city center, yet tucked away enough to stay quiet.

You’re close to the scenic rice field walk, but far enough to avoid the mosquitoes, with Ubud Market right at your doorstep and plenty of restaurants within a short stroll.

The rooms and villas are bright, blending Balinese design with modern touches. There’s a small infinity pool surrounded by tropical greenery, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. Overall, it’s a beautiful balance between convenience, value, and calm — exactly what we look for when deciding where to stay in Ubud.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want comfort and calm close to main attractions.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Tejaprana Bisma ($$$) – Our Top Pick

Tejaprana Bisma is the best pick for those who want a luxurious yet laid-back stay close to the city center. The rooms are beautiful and spacious, each with a small garden and private pool that feels completely secluded.

The on-site restaurant overlooks the main infinity pool and is one of those spots you’ll actually look forward to each morning — peaceful, scenic, and perfect for breakfast.

The staff are friendly and attentive, creating a calm and welcoming atmosphere without feeling overly formal. Although there’s no gym, keep that in mind. It’s our top pick because it combines everything we look for — peaceful surroundings, modern comfort, and a great location.

⭐️ Best for: Couples or travelers looking for a romantic, high-end stay with a great location
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best hotels in Tirta Tawar (North Ubud)

For those looking for peace and greenery, Tirta Tawar is ideal. It’s just a few minutes from the center but feels completely surrounded by nature.

• Galang Hari Villa $
• The Udaya Resorts and Spa $$
• Blue Karma Dijiwa Ubud $$$

Galang Hari Villa ($)

Galang Hari Villa is a great budget-friendly stay surrounded by greenery, just a short drive from the city center. The rooms are simple yet spacious, featuring private terraces and garden views that create a peaceful and homely atmosphere. There’s also a small pool to cool off, which is a nice bonus for this price range.

The staff are kind and helpful, and you can rent scooters directly from the property, making it easy to explore the area. It’s not a luxury stay, but it’s comfortable, quiet, and great value for money.

⭐️ Best for: Travelers looking for an affordable, quiet stay.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

The Udaya Resorts and Spa ($$)

The Udaya Resorts and Spa is one of the best places to stay in Ubud if you’re after a balance of comfort, design, and nature. Located just north of the city center, it feels peaceful and secluded but still close enough to reach cafés and attractions within minutes.

The resort features elegant rooms and villas surrounded by lush gardens, a stunning pool area, and a highly-rated spa that’s perfect for an afternoon of relaxation. The open-air restaurant serves healthy, beautifully presented dishes, and there’s even a free shuttle to town.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers looking for a relaxing stay with a touch of luxury surrounded by jungle and rice fields.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Blue Karma Dijiwa Ubud $$$ (Our Top Pick)

We stayed at Blue Karma Dijiwa Ubud, and it quickly became one of our favorite stays in Bali. The villas have a warm, ethnic design — plenty of wood, soft tones, and thoughtful details that make it feel instantly cozy.

We stayed in a villa with a jungle view, and waking up to that every morning felt truly magical. Each villa has its own terrace, and ours came with an outdoor bathroom. The main pool faces the rice fields, surrounded by quiet corners perfect for unwinding.

What we loved the most was how it blends nature with comfort — everything feels open, green, and peaceful, yet perfectly maintained. The food was another highlight; every meal felt fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented.

⭐️ Best for: Couples looking for a peaceful, design-focused stay surrounded by rice terraces and jungle views.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best hotels in Sayan

Sayan is all about jungle views and luxury stays. It’s where you come to unwind, disconnect, and wake up to the sound of the river below.

• Villa D’Uma $
• Anumana De Suite $$
• Bambu Indah Resort $$$

Villa D’Uma ($)

Villa D’Uma is a peaceful and affordable stay tucked away in Sayan, one of the greenest and most scenic parts. It’s about a 5-minute scooter ride from town, so you’re close to everything but still get that quiet, relaxed feel.

The rooms are private and well-equipped, with a comfortable porch overlooking a lush garden and a beautiful pool area that feels secluded. It’s simple yet comfortable — perfect if you’re looking for a place to stay in Ubud that offers excellent value and privacy.

⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want a quiet, comfortable, and affordable stay.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Anumana De Suite ($$) – Our Top Pick

Anumana De Suite is a fantastic hotel with excellent facilities, offering excellent comfort. It’s located about 10 minutes from the center by scooter — close enough for easy access, but far enough to stay peaceful and quiet.

The rooms are spotless and spacious, with comfortable beds and a calm, modern design. Some suites come with a private jacuzzi on the terrace overlooking the jungle — the definition of wellbeing. The hotel itself is peaceful and full of charm, perfectly combining comfort with authentic local style. The pool area is lush and relaxing, and the entire property feels serene.

It’s our top pick because it offers incredible value for what you get — modern suites, quiet surroundings, and a luxurious feel without excessive spending.

⭐️ Best for: Couples or travelers looking for a peaceful, design-focused stay with jungle views.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Bambu Indah Resort ($$$)

Bambu Indah Resort is one of the best hotels in Ubud for those seeking something truly special. It’s a luxury eco-retreat where every detail feels thoughtfully designed and deeply connected to nature.

Each villa is different and uniquely crafted, with open spaces that bring the outside in. The details in the structure of each room are impressive — you really feel part of the jungle, yet everything is refined and elegant. From organic soaps, shampoos, and repellents to fresh, healthy food made with natural ingredients, everything reflects care and authenticity.

The resort features saltwater and natural pools that are perfect for swimming, as well as a secret crystal pool with a sauna, cold plunge, and mud bath. There are also activities like yoga, blessing ceremonies, and even vegetable picking. Some villas can accommodate more than two people, making it a great choice not just for couples but also for families or groups of friends.

⭐️ Best for: Couples, families, or groups of friends looking for a one-of-a-kind eco-luxury retreat surrounded by jungle and river views.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best hotels in Nyuh Kuning

Nyuh Kuning is a calm, local neighborhood just south of the Monkey Forest — clean, easy to walk around, and perfect if you want a relaxed village feel close to town.

• Buda Amitaba $
• Weda Cita Resort and Spa by Mahaputra $$
• The Ubud Village Resort & Spa $$$

Buda Amitaba ($)

Buda Amitaba is a charming budget-friendly stay in Nyuh Kuning, offering a quiet and authentic village atmosphere just a short walk from the Monkey Forest. Lovely local vibe, lots of cafés, restaurants, and small businesses make this area feel both convenient and relaxed.

The rooms are clean and spacious, with terraces overlooking the pool or garden. There’s a nice outdoor pool for cooling off — and for this price range, it’s rare to find a stay with such a lovely pool setting. Breakfast is served each morning, and the staff are kind and helpful, making the place feel calm and welcoming.

It’s a simple yet well-maintained stay that delivers great value for money.

⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers and couples looking for a quiet, authentic stay.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Weda Cita Resort and Spa by Mahaputra ($$) – Our Top Pick

Weda Cita Resort and Spa by Mahaputra is one of the best places to stay in Ubud if you want comfort, peace, and a touch of luxury. The hotel sits slightly tucked away from the main road, so it’s quiet but still within a reasonable distance from the center — around 20 minutes on foot or a few minutes by scooter.

The property has a beautiful, tropical setting with a large pool, spotless gardens, and villas that even come with private pools. The rooms are spacious, clean, and well-equipped, and you can rent a scooter directly from the hotel for easy exploring.

Breakfast is delicious, and the on-site restaurant serves excellent local food at fair prices — everything is freshly made and full of flavor. We chose this as our top pick because it offers everything you’d want for a comfortable stay: great facilities, friendly staff, and peaceful surroundings, all for a great price.

⭐️ Best for: Couples or travelers looking for a stylish, peaceful stay with great facilities.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

The Ubud Village Resort & Spa ($$$)

If you’re dreaming of that classic luxury Ubud — private villas, jungle views, and total serenity — The Ubud Village Resort & Spa delivers. This resort feels like a hidden oasis surrounded by tropical gardens and rice fields, yet it’s only a few minutes from central Ubud.

Each villa is spacious and beautifully designed, featuring a private pool, outdoor lounge area, and warm Balinese touches throughout. The resort has two large pools, a spa, a gym, and an open-air restaurant that hosts a Saturday evening event with traditional Balinese dancing — a lovely way to experience the culture without leaving the hotel.

There’s also a free shuttle to the town and market, making it easy to explore. It’s a great pick for families with kids thanks to the space and privacy each villa offers, and if you’re celebrating a honeymoon, the staff will decorate your room to make it extra special.

⭐️ Best for: Families, couples, and honeymooners looking for a luxurious, peaceful escape surrounded by nature but still close to everything.
👉 Check availability and current prices →

FAQ about the best places to stay in

Where should first-time visitors stay?

For first-timers, we recommend staying near the city center — it’s walkable, full of cafés, and close to major attractions. If you prefer more peace but still want easy access, consider staying in Nyuh Kuning or Tirta Tawar.

What are the best adults-only hotels in Ubud?

We recommend Abisena Wellness & Resort, Pramana Watu Kurung, and The Kayon Jungle Resort for a peaceful adults-only escape. They’re all set a bit outside the most popular areas, but absolutely worth it.

Where to stay for nightlife?

Stay near the city center, close to Jalan Monkey Forest or Jalan Hanoman — that’s where most bars and live music spots are.

What are the best 5-star hotels in Ubud?

If you’re after luxury, Anumana De Suite, Tejaprana Bisma, and The Ubud Village Resort & Spa are three standout options we highly recommend.

Final thoughts on where to stay in Ubud

When it comes to where to stay in Ubud, it’s all about the atmosphere you want. The center is lively and walkable, Tirta Tawar is peaceful and green, Sayan offers luxury and jungle views, while Nyuh Kuning feels local and relaxed.

We’ve found that staying just a little outside the main streets makes all the difference — you’re close to the action, but your mornings start with birds, not traffic.

If you want that perfect mix of comfort and authenticity, places like Blue Karma Dijiwa, Weda Cita Resort, and The Ubud Village Resort & Spa are hard to beat. Wherever you stay, the charm is almost the same — calm, creative, and full of possitive energy.