In my post Where to stay in Bali, I provided an overview of what to expect from this region, which is renowned for its unique rice field landscapes. Here, I’ll make specific recommendations on where to stay in Ubud, including two hotels where we’ve stayed in ourselves, as well as others with excellent ratings.
The first time we visited Bali, in July 2022, we stayed at Padma Resort Ubud. We had planned to explore Ubud, but the resort was so good that we barely left it.
Located slightly north of Ubud, I’ve heard that it’s no longer even considered part of Ubud and is completely isolated, surrounded by stunning green landscapes. As it’s in a more mountainous area, the temperature is a little cooler, so it’s worth bringing a light jacket.
I really loved this resort. There were lots of activities for guests, especially for children. Some examples include:
(and more!)
The only downside for me was that everything had to be booked in advance, including breakfast time 😳 Aside from that, it’s a perfect place to spend around three days. Unfortunately we couldn’t stay that long. It’s also worth bearing in mind that, as the resort is very isolated, you’ll end up eating most of your meals there, which, as expected, are more expensive than average for Bali.
One of the highlights of the resort is the heated swimming pool, with amazing views over the forest.
If you’re looking for a peaceful place to stay in Ubud, where the main goal is to relax rather than explore the area, Padma Resort Ubud is an excellent choice.
When we returned to Ubud for the second time in August 2025, I really wanted to stay in the centre this time, as I hadn’t had the chance to experience it before. After a lot of research (and it wasn’t easy), I chose Bisma Eight, and it was a great decision!
We stayed in the main hotel building, but there’s also a separate area with villas, each with its own private pool.
While the hotel doesn’t have a particularly Balinese style, the rooms actually have a Japanese feel. The pool offers classic views of Bali’s lush green landscapes, and it hardly feels like you’re in the centre of Ubud because it’s so peaceful.
The hotel offers a variety of activities and I was able to join an excellent yoga class.
Getting to the hotel can be tricky, as is the case with most hotels in central Ubud. To reach Bisma Street, you have to cross the whole centre, and there is only one access road. When we arrived in the late afternoon, it was absolute chaos, it took us an hour just to cover the last five kilometres to the hotel!
Once we were settled in, however, we didn’t need to face the traffic again. There are plenty of restaurants and spas nearby, so you can do a lot on foot.
However, if you want to head out onto the busiest streets in the evening, be prepared for the crowds. Many streets don’t have pavements at all, and those that do are far too narrow for the number of people using them.
Other suggestions on where to stay in Ubud – central areas
This hotel is also located on Bisma Street, close to the centre, yet still in a quiet area, with incredible green views of Ubud.
The rooms are spacious and the hotel offers traditional yoga classes and other activities, such as cooking classes, by reservation.
It has excellent reviews and seems like an excellent place to stay in Ubud.
This is another hotel on Bisma Street with excellent reviews. It’s within walking distance of central Ubud yet still close to nature, with direct access to rice fields for walkings.
All the rooms are spacious and have private balconies, and you can also book villas.
It’s yet another great hotel option in Ubud with everything you’d expect, including an infinity pool overlooking the forest and yoga classes.
Other suggestions on where to stay in Ubud – further from the centre
Although this resort closer to the centre of Ubud than the Padma Ubud, it’s still not within walking distance and is therefore somewhat isolated.
It seems like an excellent place to relax and enjoy the views over the rice fields.
This resort offers a shuttle service to Ubud town centre and has cafés and restaurants nearby. Walking enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the hotel is close to the Campuhan Ridge Walk, which leads to the centre of Ubud in around 20 minutes.
You can find good prices here when the hotel is on promotion, making it probably one of the more affordable options on this list.
This adults-only resort boasts stunning views of the forest and even a waterfall.
It also provides a shuttle service to the centre of Ubud and has excellent reviews.
This resort is rather expensive, but it must be an amazing experience!
Now that you have plenty of tips on where to stay in Ubud, don’t forget to check out the other posts about Bali as well.
