Want to experience the old city charm of Indonesian culture and architecture? Add Denpasar City to your Bali Tour Packages — It is vibrant, energetic, and is the most admired city in Indonesia by tourists.
The beautiful temples spread all around the city, centuries-old treasure-holding museums, rustic monuments, bustling markets, authentic Balinese cuisine, you name it, and get all here at Denpasar, Bali.
Denpasar City lies in southern Bali and is the administrative and economic hub of Indonesia. A brief history of Denpasar reveals that this city was a part of the Badung kingdom and had been a major market town during those times. Hence, Bali Denpasar City has been the popular choice when it comes to shopping and markets.
Be a local by exploring the best places to visit, stay, and eat with the Denpasar City travel guide, and make the most of your Bali, Indonesia package!
Best Places To Visit In Denpasar
1. Bali Shark Eco Adventure
Have you ever had an opportunity to swim along with sharks? Would you do it if given a chance? You can swim with the sharks in this unique Bali Shark Eco Adventure, one of the most popular attractions in Bali Denpasar city.
It gets you up close with over a dozen blacktip reef sharks. This adventure centre spreads awareness of shark conservation and promotes a better understanding of the often misunderstood species.
The Bali Sharks tour is available for all ages, as well as for swimmers and non-swimmers. Non-swimmers can enjoy feeding and getting an up-close encounter with the reef predators.
This place is also perfect for young kids to learn about sharks and their varieties. The guided tour takes nearly 3 hours, which includes snorkelling and deep diving into the sea with the sharks.
most recommended bali tour packages
One of the best things to do in Bali is Denpasar City shopping! Yes, it would be unfair if you did not shop when in Denpasar, Bali!
The Batik artwork, native to Indonesia and recognised by UNESCO as a cultural heritage, features traditional hand-drawn wax-resist dyeing techniques passed down through generations.
You can find various stores/ markets like Sukawati Art Market, & Ubud Art Market, selling Batik dresses, beachwear, sarongs, and shirts. While Denpasar City shopping, be mindful of pricing; look for government-authorised shops to ensure fair rates and authentic pieces.
A Few Best Places:
3. Upside Down World Bali
Take a break from the beaches, temples, and markets and visit this fun place. Indeed, you are going to enjoy a lot in the Upside Down World of Bali in Denpasar City. If you have kids, this place is an educational cum fun trip for them.
This one-of-a-kind museum features 7 specifically designed rooms with furniture and decor the wrong way up.
Pro Tip: Remember to take your cameras.
Badung Market is one of the best places to visit in Denpasar if you wish to experience how the city runs daily. Badung Market, or ‘Pasar Badung’ in the local tongue, is the largest traditional market. This market is the main source of all and everything fresh for the residents of Bali Denpasar City.
The market opens well before dawn, and here you can get fresh supplies of fruits, vegetables, and everything that is grown on the land of Bali.
There’s even a spot for children to play, complete with recreational and educational facilities. Another cool thing about this place is its 18 Wi-Fi spots you can use while you’re shopping! Isn’t it amazing?
- Best Things To Buy: Handicrafts, spices, clothes, groceries, fruits, and vegetables
- Address: Jl. Sulawesi, Dauh Puri Kangin, pasar badung, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80221, Indonesia
- Timings: 4 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Entry Fee: Free
You didn’t explore Denpasar if your Denpasar city tour doesn’t include the Bajra Sandhi Monument. It has a great history attached to it. This historical monument is dedicated to the struggles of the Bali people for freedom from the Dutch Colonial rule.
This rectangular-shaped monument is a classic example of Indonesian architecture. Built in 1987 and opened in 2003, this monument is located in front of the Bali Governor's office on 13.8 hectares of land.
It honours the 1,000 Balinese people who lost their lives fighting for freedom from Dutch rule, featuring Hindu philosophy and independence in its design. In the basement, you'll find a modern Interactive Art Museum with 3D artwork and optical illusions.
The monument is also home to beautiful gardens and historical exhibits. Visiting the Bajra Sandhi Monument is one of the best things to do in Denpasar City.
Another highlight of the Denpasar city tour is Le Mayeur. This museum showcases the artwork and the history of the painter and artist Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur de Merpres, a Brussels-born artist.
He travelled all around the world before settling in Bali, and all the experience gained during his voyage can be seen through his painting.
The museum is located just right of Sanur Beach and features nearly eighty artworks by the painter. Next to the museum is a souvenir shop called Ni Polak, where you can buy postcards and other decorative items that have Le Mayeur’s paintings on them.
Escaping the hustle and bustle of the city by visiting Sakenan Temple (Pura Sakenan), is one of the best things to do in Denpasar City. Built in the 10th century using limestone and coral, this Hindu temple showcases Bali's rich traditions.
Every 210 days, the temple comes alive during Piodalan celebrations, where locals gather for rituals, processions, and traditional dance performances.
8. Bali Provincial Public Museum
The Bali Provincial State Museum on the east side of Puputan Square is perfect for exploring Bali's rich history. Its exhibition halls showcase items from the Mesolithic Age to modern times, including ancient weapons, religious artefacts, and musical instruments.
The museum features a beautiful garden for visitors to relax. Visitors can discover everything from ceramics to traditional household tools and more!
Jagannath Temple, located at the heart of Denpasar city of Bali, is the biggest Hindu temple and is located on the east side of the Puputan Badung field. It is the only temple that is dedicated to the God of Balinese Hinduism, Sanghyang Widi.
A gold statue of the God sits atop a seven-tiered throne made of white coral with a central altar that is dedicated to Shiva and rests on the shell of the turtle Bedawang Nala and two dragons.
The walls of the temple are adorned with carvings that depict the various parts of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. The temple is surrounded by a pond filled with giant Koi fish.
Two major festivals are held here every month on the temple premises, during the full moon and new moon, and feature wayang kulit (leather shadow puppet) performances. Witnessing these masterpieces is among the most famous things to do in Denpasar City.
Just 15 minutes from Denpasar, Sanur Beach offers a peaceful escape from the city. Perfect for swimming, this beach is more affordable than popular spots like Canggu, Kuta, Seminyak, or Legian.
While hotels and restaurants here are budget-friendly, the area is nicknamed "sleepy Sanur" because of its calm nightlife.
Best Time To Visit Denpasar, Bali
Denpasar City, the capital of Bali, can be visited throughout the year. However, it’s important to know the best time to visit.
Dry Season - April to October
The best time to visit Denpasar, Bali is during the dry season — April to October, as the average temperature throughout the day goes from 20°Cto 25°C.
The humidity is low during these months, and fewer rain showers can be expected. These months are ideal for going around the city and exploring the hidden gems of the place.
Wet Season - November to March
November to March is the wet season in Bali. Fewer tourists prefer to visit Denpasar, Bali during these months.
That means you can have a place with fewer queues in the market. During the wet season, the hotels and resorts are also at low prices, so viola! You are on the benefiting side in terms of both the crowd and money.
How To Reach Denpasar, Bali?
If you’re wondering how to get around Denpasar, Bali, below are the best travel options:
How To Reach Denpasar By Flight:
- To reach Denpasar City, the nearest airport is Ngurah Rai International Airport, which is 13 km from the city.
- All major international cities in the world are also well-connected by flights to Denpasar City.
- On reaching the airport, tourists can hire a cab, taxi, or use ride-hailing apps to reach the city.
How To Reach Denpasar By Renting A Car With A Driver
- Renting a car with a professional driver is one of the most comfortable and flexible ways to reach and explore Denpasar City.
- This option is perfect for families, groups, or travelers who want to explore at their own pace without worrying about navigation or traffic.
- Professional English-speaking drivers know local routes best.
- Most drivers can also serve as local guides, too.
- Cost: Starts from ₹1,350/- per person/ group
How To Reach Denpasar By Opting For A Private Package
- If you’re a first-time visitor, packages like Tropical Getaway - 5 Days Bali Trip Package are your best bet!
- Meals, entry fee, and accommodations are all sorted!
- This is the best option if you want a solid itinerary.
- Cost: Starts from ₹42,999/- for 5-7 days
How To Reach Denpasar By Using Ride-Hailing Apps
- The most popular ride-hailing apps in Bali include Grab, Gojek, & Maxim.
- Download the app (Grab or Gojek) from App Store/Google Play.
- Register with your phone number.
- Set pickup and destination locations.
- Choose vehicle type.
- Confirm booking and track your drive.
- Cost: Between ₹802/- to ₹1,336/-
By Scooter
- You can also rent a scooter from the nearby cities to Denpasar; however, you need to have an international driving license to drive a scooter in Bali.
- Seeing the crowd in the city, it is best to sit relaxed in the back of the car and enjoy the beauty of the city.
- Cost: Starts from ₹320/- per day
How To Reach Denpasar By Bus
- If you want to be like a local, you can travel by bus. Ubang is the bus terminal of the city, which is also an open-air minibus terminal.
- There are regular buses connecting Denpasar city with Java, Gilimanuk, Surabaya, Ubud, and Yogyakarta.
- Cost: ₹19/- per person
Top Places To Eat In Denpasar
Denpasar offers the most authentic Balinese food at affordable prices.
1.Warung De Rujak: For the best and cheapest Tipat Cantok.
2.Bali Bakery: Perfect spot if you’re craving fresh bread, cakes, pastries, and lunch.
3.Cianjur: Famous for Sundanese dishes, especially their fish (Ikan Gurame).
4.Warung Wardani: Mid-range restaurant famous for Nasi Campur (mixed rice dish).
5.Atoom Bara: Renowned for delicious Chinese seafood.
Denpasar City travel guide suggests the list of the top Denpasar city hotels for the best stay:
1.Griya Tunjung Sari
2.Nakula Familiar Inn
3.Grand Mirah Boutique Hotel
4.Four Star by Trans Hotel
5.Pop Hotel
Tips For Visiting Denpasar Bali
Here are the best travel tips for visiting Denpasar City:
- Documents: Keep your passport valid for 6+ months and ensure to get a Visa on Arrival.
- Transport: Book flights early and decide between renting vehicles or using local taxis/Grab for city travel.
- Weather: Visit during the dry season (April-October) for the best weather; pack rain gear if coming during the wet season (November-March).
- Health: Buy travel insurance, and pack basic medicines and mosquito spray.
- Money: Exchange money at reliable places and carry both cash (Rupiah) and cards.
- Language: Most tourist areas speak English, but learning basic Indonesian phrases helps.
- Food: Try local dishes at warungs (small restaurants), but stick to bottled water for drinking.
- Sightseeing: Book popular attractions in advance to avoid queues.
- Culture: Dress modestly at temples and respect local customs.
- Safety: Keep valuables in hotel safes and stay alert while traveling around the city.
- Beach Gear: Pack essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, and reusable water bottles for outdoor activities.
Is Denpasar City Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Denpasar City offers an authentic Indonesian experience that perfectly complements Bali's beach destinations. As the cultural and administrative heart of Bali, Denpasar provides visitors with a genuine glimpse into local life through its traditional markets, historic temples, and vibrant street food scene.
The city boasts excellent Denpasar City hotels ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations, ensuring comfortable stays for all travellers.
While Denpasar City nightlife may be more low-key compared to beach towns like Seminyak or Kuta, it offers authentic local experiences with traditional warungs, cultural performances, and evening markets that showcase the real Balinese lifestyle.
From exploring centuries-old temples to shopping at bustling traditional markets, Denpasar serves as the perfect base for understanding Bali's rich heritage and culture.
