Whether you’re looking to kick back and relax on some of the world’s finest beaches, party all night at Kuta’s famous bars and clubs or soak up some culture in the numerous temples and religious sites, Bali really does have it all. The small island of Bali in the heart of Indonesia’s archipelago is a stunning holiday destination that truly offers something for everyone. Although you could easily spend months exploring all this beautiful island has to offer, a week is long enough to give you a great introduction whilst still leaving you longing to return.

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Days 1-2: South Coast

Flights from all over the world land at Bali’s Denpasar Airport allowing you to head straight to Kuta, Seminyak or even Ubud to start your Indonesian adventure.

Kuta and Seminyak

If you’re looking to party there’s no better place to start than Kuta. This is a true clubbers’ haven, with pool parties, beach bars and nightclubs open into the early hours. Start your trip with a few days lounging on the beaches in either Kuta or Seminyak with cocktails to follow at one of the famous beach bars. Chill out on beanbags while watching one of Bali’s epic sunsets before dancing the night away!

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For a little more culture during your time on the south coast, you can’t miss a trip to Bali’s Tanah Lot and Uluwatu Temples. There are a number of religious sites dotted along Bali’s coastline, but the dramatic scene of Tanah Lot floating in the sea during high tide with an incredible golden sunset behind is truly a sight to behold.

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Days 3-5: Ubud

After revelling in your wild Kuta experience for a few days you’ll be ready to detox and unwind and there’s no better place than a jungle lodge or villa with a pool in Ubud. Bali’s cultural hub, Ubud is the perfect place to indulge in some self-love with plenty of vegan cafes, refreshing smoothies and yoga classes on offer. You can even grab a relaxing massage for under $20 or take part in peaceful meditation classes.

For those seeking a more active experience, take a hike up Mount Batur where you’ll be treated to a spectacular sunrise followed by a soothing dip in a natural hot spring on the way back down (10 hour round trip including journey, hike and springs). If you’re more comfortable on two wheels, why not enjoy a bike ride through Bali’s iconic Tegallalang rice paddies? Starting at the top of the hillside you wind your way through the picturesque paddies, past temples and villages all the way back to Ubud for a well-deserved beer!

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No visit to Ubud would be complete without a trip to Monkey Forest. Located in the heart of Ubud town, this sacred sanctuary is home to around 700 monkeys roaming around the trees and pathways of the forest. Wander around this unique destination and feel free to take pictures – but hold on to your hats, glasses and cameras as these little guys aren’t shy and will try to steal anything that isn’t attached! They will happily climb on you so if you’re sacred or nervous just continue walking briskly away and they’ll jump right off.

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Days 6-7: Diving at Padang Bai or Nusa Lembongan

If you’re interested in diving but don’t have the time to get your full PADI certificate, you can still enjoy some fun dives off the coast of Bali. There are a range of great dives available at different sites around the island where you can swim with tropical fish, turtles, or perhaps our favourite, a huge naval shipwreck! The Liberty, a US Army ship, was torpedoed in 1942 by a Japanese submarine and now lies off the coast of Tulamben between 5m-30m below the surface. This allows it to be accessed by divers of all levels who come to explore both the wreck and the wildlife that now surrounds it.

Nusa Lembongan is an island situated off the south-eastern coast of Bali and is home to manta rays, mola mola (ocean sunfish) and the unique underwater statues in the Ceningan Channel. These manmade structures were placed under the water as an art exhibition/environmental project but are still a worthwhile excursion for those seeking something a little out of the ordinary.

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Each person who visits Bali will find their own slice of paradise that will have them yearning to return time and time again. Whether it’s the tasty mie goreng noodles that you can enjoy on every street corner, the stylish beach bars and cheap massages or simply the varying landscapes that make for hundreds of picture-postcard snaps, you’re sure to be wanting more.

Why not extend your stay in Bali to include a trip to the famous Gili Islands? Or add on a more strenuous hike up Mount Agung or a week’s yoga or surf in one of Bali’s top retreats?