How to Plan a Trip to Bali
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to Indonesia needs.
Your 4-step Bali plan
Step 1 — Book flights to DPS
Ngurah Rai Airport (DPS) is the main gateway to Bali. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to DPSStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in Seminyak Beach & Sunset Strip for the best first-time visit — Closest beach to the airport.
Where to stay in BaliStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Seminyak Beach & Sunset Strip, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Bali.
Things to do in BaliStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Taxi / Grab (no rail connection) is $8–15 and takes 20–40 min to Seminyak. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
DPS arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
Indonesia offers a Visa on Arrival (VoA) for 60+ nationalities — USD 35 at the airport. Must be paid before immigration queues. Extendable once for 30 days.