What’s Denpasar known for?
Bali’s capital city is home to the island’s main international airport, so there’s a good chance that this will be your first stop. Many visitors to Bali choose to skip over Denpasar entirely and head immediately for the beach, but they’re missing out! This diverse and bustling city has loads to offer travellers and is the site of many of Bali’s most famous landmarks, temples and museums. For culturally-motivated travellers, Denpasar is one of the best places in Bali to learn more about the island’s historical, artistic and religious heritage.
| Price | Good for | Airport | Kids | Culture | Beaches | Dining | Nightlife | Surf | Spa & Yoga |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $$ | Culture | 1mi | ** | * * ** | * * | ** * | * * | * | * * |
Who should go to Denpasar?
If you’re interested in the story and culture of Bali, Denpasar is worth at least a few days of your trip to the island. The area is convenient to move around and has lots to see and do, so it is popular among families, couples, groups and solo travellers.
When should you visit Denpasar?
For the weather
The dry season in Bali runs from May to September, when the island sees the most days of sunshine. Humidity is also lower at this time of year, making it feel cooler (although the temperature in Denpasar stays consistently high year round, at 29 – 31 C/84 -88 F).
To beat the crowds
Denpasar is the capital city and main port of entry into Bali, so is busy and lively-year round. The city sees its most crowded period between July and August when tourism to the island explodes. Visit in May or September for smaller crowds, or visit in the ‘off season’ from December to February.
For the coolest events
Bali Arts Festival
Where? Taman Werdhi Budaya Arts Center
When? June – July
This month-long festival runs from mid-June to mid-July and is a vibrant celebration of Bali’s art culture. Enjoy live dance and musical performances, parades and sensational costumes from across all regions of Bali and Indonesia in this spectacular display of art and colour. Don’t miss the dramatic dance dramas, which are a highlight of the festival for most visitors.
Denpasar Festival
Where? Catur Muka Park
When? December
This turn-of-the-year celebration is the largest open-air festival in Bali and runs for three days from 28 – 31st December. Featuring theatrical and musical performances, as well as live painting and art exhibitions, the Denpasar Festival is a huge celebration of Indonesia’s rich and varied culture. Get involved with traditional craft workshops and sample authentic delights at the culinary festival, for the perfect way to round off your year!
Things to see and do in Denpasar
Learn more at the Bali Museum
The Bali Museum of art and history is an absolute must if you want to learn more about the culture and traditions of Bali. This large museum is spread out over four buildings and features exhibits displaying musical instruments, theatrical masks, Buleleng textiles and sculptures and paintings from throughout Balinese history. Take a guided tour or wander at your own leisure through the fascinating exhibits, for a fun and educational day out in Denpasar.
Visit Pura Geriya Tanah Kilap
Denpasar has hundred of temples and holy sites, so it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in Bali’s religious heritage. Pay a visit to Geriya Tanah Kilap Temple in Denpasar for a look at Bali’s traditional architecture and to enjoy the quiet and peaceful atmosphere within.
Enjoy close-up encounters at Bali Sharks
Take an awesome marine adventure to Bali Sharks on nearby Serangan Island. Here you can enjoy thrilling close-up encounters with reef sharks and even take part in feeding time! You can also see what the conservation team are up to with an eco-tour of the facilities. Their knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff can teach you plenty about what’s being done to preserve turtle and shark populations around Bali.
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Escape the city at the Kertalangu Cultural Village
Situated in the middle of a sprawling, 80-hectare rice field, the Kertalangu Cultural Village is a great place to escape city life for a day. This beautiful village has plenty to delight visitors, including cultural performances, traditional handicrafts and delicious Balinese food. Come here to learn about more of Bali’s traditional culture, to shop for fruits and veggies, or simply to enjoy being out in nature.
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Go shopping at Pasar Badung Market
Bali’s biggest traditional outdoor market is the place for shopping in Denpasar. This huge, four-story market has everything from shellfish to souvenirs and is a fascinating place to walk around. The market is busiest in the morning and evenings, so visit mid-afternoon to beat the crowds!
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Lapangan Puputan Renon
This beautiful public square in Denpasar features a wide, grassy field overlooking the incredible Puputan Monument. Lapangan Puputan Renon is the perfect place to go for a jog or walk, to practice yoga, or to play sports. It is particularly pleasant in the mornings and evenings when the sun is coolest and is a favourite spot for people all over the city.
Off the beaten track in Denpasar…
Take a tour of the mangrove forest
The big city can be exhausting, but fortunately, Denpasar has plenty of greenery to escape to! For a soothing and off-the-beaten-track experience in Denpasar, check out the mangrove forest during your stay.
This area of natural beauty is located in the southern part of the city and is a tranquil and peaceful place to walk around.
Enjoy the fresh air and lose yourself in the serenity of nature as you explore the lush forest. Walk softly and quietly and you’ll see all sorts of native animal species – frogs, lizards, insects, spiders, fish and even crabs!
Where to eat in Denpasar
Warung Baby Monkeys
For authentic Indonesian food served in a cozy, cheerful environment, head to Warung Baby Monkeys in Denpasar. The colourful interior is bright and engaging and they even have Western options on their menu!
Soul in a Bowl
Serving healthy cuisine from an international menu is Soul in a Bowl. From burgers to raw and vegetarian foods, this popular restaurant has a varied menu to suit all tastes. Their cocktails are also fantastic and the perfect accompaniment to your meal!
Loving Hut
Vegan diners should head to Loving Hut in Denpasar, where you’ll find an array of creative and delicious plant-based dishes. Their wide variety of tasty options are both delicious and healthy and their refreshing smoothies will blow you away!
Where to stay in Denpasar
To be near the beach
Over to the east, Denpasar gives way to the coastal resort area of Sanur. This part of town is much quieter than Denpasar’s bustling center and renting accommodation here can provide you with a soothing bolt-hole. As an added bonus, this area also has better access to the beachfront, so you can alternate between city and seaside life as you please.
To be near the action
To be near the main shops and restaurants in Denpasar, look for accommodation in the center. Immam Banjul is a popular neighbourhood among travellers and has all the info and activities you;l need to enjoy your time in Denpasar.
Renting a villa in Denpasar
To escape the crowds and station yourself within walking distance of the beach, consider booking a villa like Ylang Ylang. Although positioned outside of the main city, this incredible villa is still just a short drive away from the center. This makes it the perfect place to stay if you are planning some sightseeing in Denpasar, and even better if you want to stay by the ocean!
Other places to stay in Denpasar: