If you’re planning a family trip to Bali, you’ve probably wondered whether Ubud with kids is really worth adding to your itinerary.

When most people think of Bali, they picture beach clubs, sunsets, and endless stretches of sand. But tucked away in the island’s lush interior is a place that feels completely different.

Ubud is often called the cultural heart of Bali—and after visiting as a family, we can understand why.

With its jungle surroundings, traditional Balinese culture, family-friendly villas, and slower pace of life, Ubud offers something many parents are looking for: the chance to slow down and experience Bali beyond the beaches.

That said, Ubud isn’t for every family. There are no beaches here, the roads can be busy, and you’ll likely spend more time walking than you expect. If you’re traveling with toddlers, you’ll also want to plan for afternoon breaks and leave the stroller at home.

So, is Ubud worth visiting with kids?

In our experience, absolutely—but with a few things we’d wish we’d known before arriving.

In this guide, we’ll share our honest family experience in Ubud, including who we think it is best suited for, what surprised us most, and whether we’d recommend adding it to your Bali itinerary.

If this is your first time visiting the Island of the Gods, don’t miss our complete Bali With Kids Guide before planning your itinerary.

Quick Answer: Is Ubud Worth Visiting With Kids?

Yes. Ubud is one of the best places in Bali for families looking for culture, nature, and a slower pace of travel. While it lacks beaches and has busy roads in some areas, its family-friendly atmosphere, beautiful surroundings, and unique experiences make it well worth visiting. We recommend spending 2–3 days in Ubud as part of a Bali family itinerary.

At a Glance: Our Ubud Family Verdict

Our Family’s First Impressions of Ubud

After spending time in Bali’s beach towns, arriving in Ubud felt like stepping into a completely different world.

The first thing we noticed wasn’t a famous landmark or an attraction—it was how green everything felt. The busy beach atmosphere gave way to jungle-lined roads, towering trees, and a slower pace that immediately made us want to stay a little longer.

As we drove into town, we passed beautifully decorated temples, small family-run shops, and traditional Balinese offerings placed neatly outside homes and businesses. It felt less like a tourist destination and more like the cultural side of Bali we’d been hoping to experience.

Another thing we appreciated as parents was the temperature. Because Ubud sits at a higher elevation than much of Bali, it felt noticeably cooler than some of the coastal areas we’d visited. Exploring during the day felt much more manageable with kids, especially when little legs started getting tired.

Our girl was instantly fascinated by everything around them. From spotting temple statues and colorful offerings to keeping an eye out for monkeys, Ubud had a sense of adventure that captured their attention from the very beginning.

Another unexpected thing our girls loved about Ubud? The bright orange koi fish. They seemed to appear everywhere—from temple ponds and gardens to cafés and even the Water Palace—and spotting them quickly became a little game throughout our trip.

Of course, Ubud isn’t perfect. The roads can be busy, pavements are often uneven, and getting around with a stroller can be challenging in places. But those small inconveniences quickly faded into the background as we settled into the relaxed rhythm of life in Bali’s cultural heart.

Looking back, Ubud was one of those places that surprised us. We expected to enjoy it, but we didn’t expect it to become one of our favorite family destinations in Bali.

Why Families Love Ubud

There are plenty of places to visit in Bali with kids, but Ubud offers something that feels increasingly rare—

Space to slow down.

Unlike Bali’s beach towns, Ubud isn’t about spending your days moving from one beach club to another.

Instead, it’s a place where families can immerse themselves in Balinese culture, wake up to the sounds of nature, and enjoy a more relaxed pace of travel.

Here are a few reasons we think so many families—including ours—love Ubud:

1. Culture Around Every Corner

From daily offerings placed outside homes to traditional temples and evening performances, Ubud offers children a chance to experience a different culture in a way that feels accessible and engaging.

Our girls were constantly pointing out statues, colorful decorations, and ceremonial offerings as we explored the town. It felt like a giant outdoor classroom—without ever feeling educational.

2. Nature Is Everywhere

One of the things that makes Ubud special is its setting. Surrounded by jungle, rice fields, and scenic walking trails, it feels worlds away from Bali’s busier coastal areas.

Even simple moments—walking down a quiet street or enjoying breakfast surrounded by greenery—felt memorable here.

3. Beautiful Family-Friendly Villas

Ubud is home to some of the most beautiful family accommodation in Bali. Whether you’re looking for a private pool villa or a budget-friendly stay surrounded by nature, there is something for every type of family traveler.

For many parents, the chance to unwind in a peaceful villa after a busy day of sightseeing is reason enough to choose Ubud.

4. Family-Friendly Food

Traveling with kids is always easier when everyone can find something they enjoy eating.

One thing we quickly noticed in Ubud was the variety of food available. Alongside traditional Indonesian dishes, there are plenty of cafés and restaurants serving familiar favorites, making it easy to keep even picky eaters happy. You can get bagels, coffee, cinnamon buns, and smoothies everywhere.

5. A Slower Pace of Travel

Perhaps our favorite thing about Ubud was simply how it made us feel.

There was no pressure to rush from attraction to attraction. Instead, our days naturally slowed down. We spent more time walking, talking, and taking in our surroundings—something that’s often difficult to do on family holidays.

If you’re looking for culture, nature, and a chance to experience a different side of Bali, it’s easy to see why so many families choose to spend a few days in Ubud.

Families traveling with younger kids may also enjoy reading our guide to Bali With Toddlers, where we share practical tips for navigating the island with little travelers.

Our Experience Exploring Ubud With Kids

We quickly discovered that one of the best things about Ubud is that many of its highlights are within walking distance of each other. Rather than rushing from one attraction to the next, we spent the day exploring at our own pace—something that worked particularly well with children.

Our route took us through the cultural heart of Ubud, beginning at the Royal Palace before wandering through colorful market stalls and ending at one of the town’s most peaceful corners.

Here’s what our day looked like.

1. Exploring Ubud Palace

Our first stop in Ubud was the beautiful Ubud Palace, located right in the heart of town. While it’s not the largest palace you’ll ever visit, it was the perfect introduction to Bali’s rich culture.

The girls immediately started pointing at the intricate stone carvings, towering gates, and statues guarding the entrance. It’s one of those places where you don’t need to explain much—children naturally become curious about their surroundings.

We spent around 20–30 minutes wandering through the palace grounds, taking photos and soaking up the atmosphere. It’s relatively small, which actually makes it ideal for families with younger children who aren’t interested in spending hours sightseeing.

One thing we loved about Ubud was how culture feels woven into everyday life, and Ubud Palace is a great example of that. If you’re visiting in the evening, there are often traditional dance performances held here, which would be a wonderful experience for older children.

After spending around half an hour at the palace, we simply crossed the road to our next stop—the bustling Ubud Art Market.

Roaming Crew Mum Tip: Visit in the morning before the crowds arrive and pair it with the nearby market and Water Palace for an easy family outing.

Worth visiting? Absolutely. It’s free, centrally located, and a lovely first stop when exploring Ubud with kids.

2: Browsing the Ubud Art Market

Just across the road from Ubud Palace is the famous Ubud Art Market, and if your children enjoy exploring colorful places, they’ll love this one.

The market is filled with everything from handmade bags and woven hats to wooden toys, paintings, jewelry, and souvenirs. It felt like something was interesting around every corner.

Our girls particularly enjoyed spotting all the colorful items hanging from the stalls, while we enjoyed browsing for a few keepsakes to take home.

If you’re planning to shop, don’t be afraid to negotiate politely. Bargaining is expected here, and vendors are generally friendly. We found that offering around 50–60% of the initial price was a good starting point before meeting somewhere in the middle.

The market can get busy, especially during the middle of the day, so keep a close eye on younger children.

With souvenir bags in hand and little legs starting to tire, we continued our walk to one of our favorite places in central Ubud.

What to buy: Woven bags, sarongs, fridge magnets, handmade crafts, and Bali souvenirs.

Can kids enjoy it? Yes! Think of it as a sensory experience rather than a shopping trip.

Roaming Crew Mum Tip: Carry cash and let older kids pick one souvenir—it’s a great way to involve them in the travel experience.

3. Visiting Saraswati Water Palace

If there was one place in central Ubud that completely surprised us, it was Saraswati Water Palace.

Tucked away just off the main street, this peaceful temple feels like a hidden oasis in the middle of the town. The highlight is undoubtedly the beautiful lotus pond leading up to the temple entrance.

The girls loved trying to spot fish in the water while we took far too many family photos!

It isn’t a place where you’ll spend hours, but that’s part of its charm. We found it to be a lovely spot to slow down for a few minutes and appreciate the beauty of Balinese architecture.

If you’re hoping for those classic Bali photographs, this is definitely one of the best places in Ubud. The combination of lotus flowers, traditional carvings, and temple gates makes it incredibly photogenic.

We spent around 15–20 minutes here before continuing our day, and that felt about right with children.

Best for: Family photos and a quiet break from Ubud’s busy streets.

How long to spend: 15–20 minutes.

Roaming Crew Mum Tip: Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photos.

By this point, we’d spent a lovely few hours exploring central Ubud and were ready for some downtime. We headed back to our villa for a swim before setting off on the rest of our adventures.

Campuhan Ridge Walk With Kids

If you only have time for one outdoor activity in Ubud, we’d happily recommend the Campuhan Ridge Walk.

Before visiting, we’d seen countless photos of people walking through Bali’s lush green hills and wondered whether it would actually be manageable with children. Thankfully, it turned out to be one of our favorite experiences in Ubud.

The trail itself is relatively easy and takes you away from the busy streets into a much quieter and greener part of town. It’s not a hike in the traditional sense, so don’t let the word “ridge” put you off.

Is Campuhan Ridge Walk Suitable for Kids?

Yes—provided your children don’t mind a bit of walking.

Our girls loved the open space after spending time in central Ubud, and we found ourselves stopping frequently to admire the views, take photos, and enjoy the fresh air.

If you’re traveling with toddlers, however, we’d recommend bringing a baby carrier rather than a stroller.

Campuhan Ridge Walk Facts

Best Time to Visit

Without question, visit early.

By 9–10 AM, Bali’s tropical heat becomes much more noticeable—especially when walking with children. We would recommend arriving shortly after sunrise if possible.

An early start also means:

• Cooler temperatures.
• Fewer people.
• Better photographs.
• Happier children!

Can You Bring a Stroller?

Technically, parts of the path are paved, but we wouldn’t recommend bringing a stroller.

There are uneven sections, inclines, and a few areas where pushing a stroller would become more frustrating than helpful. A baby carrier is by far the better option for younger children.

Are There Toilets?

This was one of the things we wished we’d known beforehand.

There are limited toilet facilities along the route, so we’d suggest making a quick stop before starting the walk—particularly if you’re traveling with younger kids.

What to Pack

Our Campuhan Ridge Walk essentials:

• Water bottles
• Sunscreen
• Hats
• Comfortable shoes
• Small snacks
• Portable fan (if visiting during warmer months)

If your kids are anything like ours, snacks can quickly turn a potential meltdown into a memorable family walk!

Is Campuhan Ridge Walk Worth It?

Absolutely.

In a destination known for temples and busy markets, the Campuhan Ridge Walk offers something completely different—a chance to slow down and appreciate the natural beauty that makes Ubud so special.

It was one of those simple experiences that reminded us why we love traveling as a family.

Roaming Crew Mum Tip:

Don’t treat this as another attraction to tick off your list. Slow down, stop often, and let the kids set the pace.

Sacred Monkey Forest With Kids

Let’s address your concern first:

Is Sacred Monkey Forest safe for kids?

The short answer is yes—but only if children understand that the monkeys are wild animals.

The Sacred Monkey Forest is one of Ubud’s most popular attractions and home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques. It’s also where we saw some of the biggest smiles on our girls’ faces during our time in Bali.

Watching monkeys swing through the trees, groom each other, and play among the ancient temple ruins felt like stepping into a real-life Jungle Book scene.

However, it’s important to visit with realistic expectations.

Our Experience Visiting Monkey Forest

Before our visit, we’d read plenty of stories online.

Some families had wonderful experiences, while others described monkeys stealing sunglasses, jumping on visitors, or grabbing bags.

Thankfully, our experience was overwhelmingly positive.

The girls were fascinated from the moment we arrived and spent most of their time trying to count how many monkeys they could spot. We made sure to stay close together and reminded them throughout the visit that the monkeys weren’t pets.

That one rule made all the difference.

Is Monkey Forest Safe for Children?

In our opinion, yes.

However, we’d suggest considering your child’s personality before visiting.

Monkey Forest is best suited for children who:

• Can follow instructions.
• Are comfortable around animals.
• Won’t try to touch or chase the monkeys.

If you’re traveling with adventurous toddlers who love running toward everything they see, you may find the experience slightly stressful!

Monkey Forest Rules for Families

Before entering, we recommend explaining these rules to your children:

1. Do not feed the monkeys.
2. Never touch or chase them.
3. Keep food and snacks packed away.
4. Avoid making direct eye contact with aggressive monkeys.
5. Stay together as a family.
6. Hold younger children’s hands at all times.

The monkeys are used to people, but they’re still wild animals and should always be treated with respect.

Things Parents Should Know

• Strollers are allowed, but some pathways can be uneven.
• Expect to spend around 1–2 hours here.
• There are toilets and places to buy drinks nearby.
• Early mornings tend to be quieter.

Is Sacred Monkey Forest Worth Visiting?

For us, absolutely.

Was it our most relaxing experience in Bali? Probably not!

But was it one of the most memorable? Without question.

Years from now, we know our girls won’t remember every temple or market we visited, but they’ll almost certainly remember the monkeys of Ubud.

Roaming Crew Mum Tip:

Spend less time trying to get the perfect monkey photo and more time watching your children’s reactions—they’re usually much more entertaining

Wondering if Bali is safe for kids? We cover monkey safety, traffic, food safety, and more in our detailed Is Bali Safe for Families? guide.

Where We Stayed in Ubud

For our stay in Ubud, we chose Budhi Ayu Villas, which worked well as a base for exploring the town with kids.

After a day of walking around Ubud, the kids were immediately drawn to the pool (as they usually are!), and having somewhere peaceful to return to each afternoon was a welcome break from the busy streets.

We also appreciated its convenient location, which made it easy to reach many of Ubud’s main attractions.

While there are plenty of family-friendly places to stay in Ubud, we’d happily recommend Budhi Ayu Villas to families looking for a comfortable stay with a relaxed atmosphere.

Roaming Crew Mum Tip:

If you’re traveling to Ubud with kids, we’d recommend choosing accommodation with a pool—it’s the perfect way to recharge after a day of sightseeing.

(Check prices for Budhi Ayu Villas)

What We’d Do Differently Next Time

No family trip is ever perfect—and honestly, that’s part of the fun.

While we absolutely loved our time in Ubud, there are a few things we’d do differently if we visited again. If you’re planning your first family trip to Bali, hopefully these little lessons will help make your own experience even smoother.

1. We’d Stay at Least Three Nights

If there’s one piece of advice we’d give Western families visiting Ubud, it’s this: don’t rush it.

Ubud isn’t a destination that needs to be “done” in a day. Between the cultural attractions, family-friendly cafés, scenic walks, and opportunities to slow down, we could easily have spent another day or two here.

Three nights feels like the sweet spot for families—long enough to explore without constantly packing bags and moving on.

2. We’d Add the Tegallalang Rice Terraces

One thing we didn’t manage to fit into our itinerary was the famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces.

Looking back, we’d have loved to spend a morning there. It’s one of Bali’s most iconic sights and would pair perfectly with a slower-paced Ubud itinerary, especially for families wanting to experience more of Bali’s natural beauty.

Safe to say, it’s already on our list for next time!

3. We’d Start Our Days Earlier

Before visiting Bali, we underestimated just how quickly the day heats up.

By mid-morning, Ubud can feel hot, busy, and a little overwhelming—particularly if you’re traveling with younger children. If we did it again, we’d aim to be out exploring by 7:30–8:00 AM and save the afternoons for swimming, snacks, and downtime.

Happier parents and happier kids.

4. We’d Pack More Snacks

Ubud involves more walking than many families expect, and tired little legs usually aren’t far behind hungry little tummies.

A few cereal bars, fruit pouches, or crackers tucked into your day bag can make all the difference between a magical family moment and an unexpected meltdown in the middle of a market!

5. We’d Book a Driver Before Arriving

While it’s easy to find transport in Bali, we’d probably arrange a driver in advance next time.

After a long flight, knowing exactly how you’re getting from the airport to your accommodation is one less thing to think about—especially when traveling with children and luggage.

It’s a small detail, but one that can make the start of your holiday feel much more relaxed.

Our Biggest Takeaway

More than anything, we’d remind ourselves not to try and do everything.

Ubud isn’t about checking attractions off a list. It’s about slowing down, embracing a different pace of life, and letting your children experience a side of Bali that feels authentic and memorable.

And if we ever find ourselves back in Bali—and we’re pretty sure we will—we know exactly where we’ll be spending a few extra days.

Ubud vs Seminyak: Which Is Better for Families?

One of the biggest decisions families face when planning a Bali family itinerary is choosing between Ubud and Seminyak.

The truth is, both are excellent destinations—they simply offer very different experiences.

If your family loves nature, culture, and quieter surroundings, we’d choose Ubud every time.

However, if your dream Bali holiday involves sandy beaches, sunset dinners, and easy access to resorts, Seminyak may be a better fit.

For us, the ideal Bali family itinerary includes both.

Spend a few days in Ubud exploring Bali’s cultural heart before heading to Seminyak for beach time and a slower end to your holiday.

Roaming Crew Mum’s Verdict:

If we had to choose just one destination with younger kids, we’d probably pick Ubud for its unique experiences and relaxed atmosphere. But if your children are happiest building sandcastles, Seminyak might win them over!

Is Ubud Good for Toddlers?

Yes—Ubud can be a fantastic destination for toddlers, provided you adjust your expectations slightly.

While it isn’t as stroller-friendly as some destinations, we found Ubud to be welcoming, relaxed, and full of opportunities for little ones to explore.

That said, there are a few things we’d keep in mind before visiting with a toddler.

Bring a baby carrier.

If your child is still young enough to use a carrier, we’d strongly recommend bringing one.

Many of Ubud’s pavements are uneven, and attractions like the Campuhan Ridge Walk are much easier to navigate without a stroller, but a carrier is a must.

Plan Plenty of Downtime

One mistake many families make in Bali is trying to pack too much into each day.

Toddlers still need naps, snacks, and pool time.

Our advice? Plan one or two activities each day and leave plenty of time for relaxing back at your accommodation.

Think Carefully About Monkey Forest

Monkey Forest was one of our girls’ favorite experiences, but we’d personally think twice about bringing children under two.

The monkeys are generally used to people, but they are still wild animals and can be unpredictable.

Older toddlers who can follow instructions will likely enjoy it much more.

Embrace the Slower Pace

Perhaps the biggest reason Ubud works so well for families with young children is its pace.

There is no pressure to rush.

Spend the morning exploring, return to your villa for a swim, enjoy an afternoon nap, and head out again for dinner.

That slower rhythm felt surprisingly toddler-friendly.

Would we recommend Ubud with toddlers?

Absolutely.

Just remember to pack a baby carrier, keep plenty of snacks on hand, and resist the temptation to do too much in one day.

Because sometimes the best family memories happen when you slow down and simply enjoy being together.

FAQ About Visiting Ubud With Kids

Is Ubud worth visiting with kids?

Yes! In our opinion, Ubud is one of the best places to visit in Bali with kids. It offers a unique mix of culture, nature, family-friendly accommodation, and memorable experiences like the Sacred Monkey Forest and Campuhan Ridge Walk. We’d recommend spending at least 2–3 days here as part of a Bali family itinerary.

How many days should you spend in Ubud with kids?

We recommend spending at least three nights in Ubud with kids. This gives families enough time to explore the main attractions, enjoy some downtime at their accommodation, and experience Ubud’s slower pace without feeling rushed.

Is Sacred Monkey Forest safe for children?

Yes, Sacred Monkey Forest is generally safe for children, provided they follow the rules and stay close to adults. The monkeys are wild animals, so families should avoid carrying food, attempting to touch them, or letting young children wander off independently.

Can you use a stroller in Ubud?

You can use a stroller in parts of Ubud, but we wouldn’t recommend relying on one. Many pavements are uneven, and attractions like Campuhan Ridge Walk are much easier to explore with a baby carrier. For families traveling with toddlers, a carrier is often the better choice.

Which is better for families: Ubud or Seminyak?

It depends on your travel style. Ubud is ideal for families looking for culture, nature, and a slower pace, while Seminyak is better suited to those wanting beaches, resorts, and shopping. If possible, we’d recommend including both destinations in your Bali itinerary.

Is Ubud safe at night?

Yes, we found Ubud to feel safe and family-friendly at night. As with any destination, it’s sensible to stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on children near busy roads. Many families enjoy evening walks and dinner in central Ubud after the daytime crowds have disappeared.

Is Ubud expensive?

Compared to many Asian destinations, Ubud is very affordable for families. Accommodation, food, and transport can offer excellent value, although prices vary depending on where you stay. Families can easily find options to suit a range of budgets, from simple guesthouses to luxury villas.

What is the best area to stay in Ubud with kids?

For families, we’d recommend staying close enough to central Ubud to easily access attractions while avoiding the busiest streets. Areas just outside the town center offer a good balance of convenience, quieter surroundings, and family-friendly accommodation options.

Final Thoughts

So, is Ubud worth visiting with kids?

For our family, the answer is a resounding yes.

Ubud offered everything we were hoping to find in Bali—beautiful scenery, rich culture, memorable experiences, and a slower pace that suited family travel perfectly. While it may not have beaches or sprawling resorts, it more than makes up for it with its charm and authenticity.

More than once, we ended up staying longer than planned at a café simply because there was a koi pond nearby. My girl would happily watch the fish while we enjoyed a quiet cup of coffee—a parenting win anywhere!

Would we return? Absolutely.

And next time, we’d stay a little longer, pack a few more snacks, and spend even more time simply soaking up the magic of Bali’s cultural heart.

Continue Planning Your Bali Family Trip

• Bali With Kids: The Complete Family Guide
• Bali With Toddlers: Everything Parents Need to Know
• Is Bali Safe for Families? Our Honest Guide

FOUNDER • MUM OF TWO

About the Author

Hi, I’m Shivani, founder of Roaming Crew and a mum of two. I create practical family travel guides that help parents confidently explore Asia with kids.

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