Denpasar

destinationDescriptionTitle

Visiting Denpasar as a holiday vacation never goes wrong.  The neighbourhood is already familiar to international tourists, so visiting and staying there for a while will be no hassle. As the capital city of Bali, it is worth a visit if you are looking for a multi-cultural environment.

Aside from the opinion that Bali is no longer a budget holiday destination, Denpasar is still a favourite go-to place for locals and tourists alike. Millions of people visit Denpasar yearly to savour white-sand beaches and enjoy glittering nightlife. Denpasar is the major hub that connects many tourist destinations and offers a perfect blend of modern life and natural beauty.

Top Things to Do in Denpasar

As a famous tourist spot, Denpasar offers many places to visit. Exploring Bali's beaches is the main attraction, be it savouring the sunset on the beach or enjoying things to do at Denpasar at night.  But beyond the beaches, these local neighbourhoods are also worth a visit if you have time to pop over to Denpasar:

1. Sanur Beach

Immersed yourself in the scenery of beautiful sunrise when visiting Sanur Beach. It is popular with its breathtaking view and is a perfect place for water sports activities. It is safe for children considering the beach has clear and calm waters most of the time.

• Location: Jalan Raya Puputan No.142, Panjer, Denpasar, Bali 80234, Indonesia
• Opening hours: Monday–Saturday from 8 am—6 pm, Sunday from 10 am—6 pm

2. Sakenan Temple

Built in the 10th century, bask in the beauty of Balinese architecture made of limestone and coral. Get off at Serangan 2 if you are using the K5B and walk around 30 minutes to arrive at Sakenan Temple.

• Location: Jalan Surapati, Dangin Puri, Denpasar, Bali 80232, Indonesia
• Opening hours: Daily from 8 am—6 pm

3. Niti Mandala Renon Square (Lapangan Renon)

Breathe the fresh air in this area while taking a morning walk or a bicycle ride in Lapangan Renon. It came alive in the morning when people taking a light jog. If you are a fan of street foods, savour snacks from cart vendors during the late afternoon! 

• Location: Panjer, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80234

4. Sindhu Night Market

If you like an interesting travel experience with locals, visiting Sindhu Night Market will be the right choice. It is located near the beach and offers cheap local food such as rujak bulung, tipat cantok, or nasi campur. Be aware of the high price when you are choosing some souvenirs, you can bargain to get the worth price.

• Location: Jl. Pungutan No.2, Sanur, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80228
• Opening hours: Daily from 5 pm—10 pm

5. Badung Market

As the largest traditional market in Denpasar, regular stalls open before the break of dawn. Vendors in lower levels are the most frequently visited stalls which sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers from local farmers. Stalls on the upper floors sell fabrics, farming tools, and household items.

• Location: Jl. Sulawesi, Dauh Puri Kangin, pasar badung, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80221
• Opening hours: Daily, 24 hours

6. Bali Sharks Eco Adventures

Also known as Serangan Shark Islan Project, this private conservation was set out by a Honolulu surfer who plan to save blacktip and whitetip reef sharks. The main attraction in this place is swimming with sharks. The sharks are well-fed and gentle, people of all ages can come here and swim.

• Location: Jalan Tukad Panggawa, Serangan, Denpasar 80229, Indonesia
• Opening hours: Daily from 7 am—3 pm

7. Turtle Conservation and Education Centre

Sea turtles are a traditional commodity among Balinese in the past. The island of Serangan was once a breeding ground and it became a conservation site to protect the species. This conservation centre is used for hatchery, nursery, and sanctuary for sea turtles. Kids will be happy to explore these creatures from up close.

• Location: Jalan Tukad Panggawa, Serangan, Denpasar 80229, Indonesia
• Opening hours: Daily from 9 am—5 pm

8. Jagatnatha Temple

Be fond of well-preserved carvings and stone motifs from the Jagatnatha’s older days and Ramayana epic episodes inside the temple walls. This historical site now features a towering central Padmasana shrine in bright white after undergoing a series of renovations over time.

• Location: Jalan Surapati, Dangin Puri, Denpasar, Bali 80232, Indonesia

9. Bajra Sandhi Monument

Located inside Lapangan Renon, adore Balinese architecture in its monuments’ exterior. Get a brief look at Balinese history in 3000 BC at the diorama gallery located on the upper floor of the monument. Many people like to spend their time on weekends among the locals and taking photos.

• Location: Jalan Raya Puputan No.142, Panjer, Denpasar, Bali 80234, Indonesia
• Opening hours: Monday–Saturday from 8 am—6 pm, Sunday from 10 am—6 pm

10. Kertalangu Cultural Village

Beyond the bustling city centre, enjoy green paddies in an 80-hectare village surrounded by a friendly local farmer. Located in the eastern suburbs, this village is a locally run recreational site. Find pleasure in an outdoor activity centre, spas, restaurants, and a freshwater fishing arena.

• Location: Jalan By Pass Ngurah Rai No.88, Kesiman Kertalangu, Denpasar, Bali 80237, Indonesia
• Opening hours: Daily from 8 am—10 pm

11. Bali Luwak Coffee Plantation

Known as popular agrotourism, this plantation will be the best place to explore the unique process of making Bali Coffee Luwak. Kopi luwak is a coffee with a fragrant aroma made from the beans of coffee berries which have been eaten by civet.

• Location: Gg. Kusuma No.5, Denpasar 80222 Indonesia
• Opening hours: Daily from 8 am—8 pm

12. Pura Maospahit

Founded in the Majapahit Empire, Pura Maospahit is a temple with terracotta brick architecture. There are two huge figures called dwarapala from different deities known as Garuda (the Hindu mythical bird) and Batara Bayu (God of Wind).

• Location: Jalan Sutomo No.6, Pemecutan Kaja, Denpasar, Bali 80231, Indonesia
• Opening hours: Daily from 6 am—6 pm

13. Tambangan Badung Temple

Overseen by the royal family of Puri Agung Pemecutan, this temple had undergone a series of expansions. Tambangan Badung Temple is divided into three mandalas in a two-hectare area. You can find two cannons, gora and gori, adorning the outermost temple gate at the first mandala facing the morning market.

• Location: Jalan Gunung Batur, Pemecutan, Denpasar, Bali 80112, Indonesia

14. Sari Wisata Budaya Barong Dance

Barong is a Balinese mythical creature, that represents the good that fights the evil. The performer will wear colourful costume characters and dance using Indonesian instruments. Read the sheet given at the place that will make you understand the story easily.

• Location: Jl. Griya Anyar No.25B, Pemogan, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80221
• Opening hours: Daily from 9 am—10.30 am

15. Taman Werdhi Budaya Arts Centre

Visit this place if you are a fan of art showcases or exhibitions. Treasure Balinese arts from favourable artists such as paintings, woodcarvings, masks, or shadow puppets.

• Location: Jl. Nusa Indah No.1, Panjer, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80236
• Opening hours: Monday—Saturday from 7.30 am—3.30 pm

Best Restaurants in Denpasar

Denpasar is one of the best spots to savour local food if you are a foodie. From a filling lunch to a romantic dinner, you can choose various meals while visiting.

1. Warung Wardani

Taste the famous Nasi Campur in Bali, it is a mix of rice served with sate lilit, shredded spicy chicken, sliced beef, shrimp, and vegetables. Though small, you can still indulge in  authentic dishes from the legendary warung.

• Location: Jl. Yudistira No.2, Dangin Puri Kauh, Kec. Denpasar Utara, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80232
• Opening hours: 8 am—4 pm

2. Warung Mak Beng

An open-air setting and laid-back atmosphere in this place invite people to savour the iconic menu. They serve authentic fish head soup, fish soup, and deep-fried fish with tasty sambal. Famous among locals, this will be the best place to freshen up yourself after a long flight.

• Location: Jalan Hang Tuah No.45, Sanur Kaja, Denpasar Selatan, Jl. Hang Tuah No.51, Sanur Kaja, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80227
• Opening hours: 8 am—10 pm

3. Warung Ongan Asri Ikan Bakar Jimbaran

Savour the fresh and delicious seafood with your loved ones. They serve fusion sushi and traditional cuisines. The most favourite menu is grilled fish (ikan bakar) served with a refreshing sambal from Bali, sambal matah.

• Location: Jl. Noja Saraswati No.12A, Kesiman Petilan, Kec. Denpasar Tim., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80361
• Opening hours: Daily from 8 am—10 pm

4. Soul of the Beach

This restaurant serves various cuisines with special dietary options such as vegan and gluten-free foods. Not only does it serve a nice meal, but you get to see the beautiful beach while eating as well. Many people enjoy visiting this place from noon until evening.

5. Goemerot Restaurant

Perfect place to enjoy the modern Bali experience with a child-friendly environment. Loved by locals, there is a playground for the kids so parents can enjoy the food peacefully.

• Location: Jl. Tukad Gangga No.8, Dauh Puri Klod, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80234
• Opening hours: Daily from 9 am—10 pm

Best Hotels Recommendations in Denpasar

Make sure to rest nicely while travelling in Denpasar. You can find great hotels in a friendly neighbourhood located in a strategic area.

1. ASTON Denpasar Hotel & Convention Center

Known for its finest hospitalities, ASTON Denpasar Hotel will be the most recommended hotel with great services. It offers a city view or garden and pool view, which you can select according to your preference. Choosing ASTON will be the best decision if you need to have a hassle-free stay experience.

• Location: Jalan Gatot Subroto No. 283, Denpasar Utara, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia, 80231
• Room rate: Starts from Rp716,000—Rp1,145,000 per night

2. Amaris Teuku Umar Denpasar

This hotel is a perfect choice if you want to find a budget hotel. You can rest in a clean and comfy air-conditioned room. They also provide a hot water shower that will be perfect to refresh yourself after a packed itinerary.

• Location: Jl Teuku Umar No. 139 Denpasar, Denpasar Barat, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia, 80361
• Room rate: Starts from Rp413,000 per night

3. Four Star by Trans Hotel

A walking distance from Plaza Renon, this hotel has a luxurious atmosphere. The nearest beach to the hotel is Sanur Beach, and you can easily find shops and restaurants there.

• Location: Jaln Raya Puputan no 200, Denpasar Selatan, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia, 80239
• Room rate: Starts from Rp1,400,000—Rp1,715,000 per night

4. b Hotel Bali & Spa

Four-star hotel with modern interiors blend with Balinese tradition. Select a room with a balcony or garden terrace to have direct access to open air. People like this hotel for the breakfast and walking distance access to the mall.

• Location: Jl. Imam Bonjol No 508, Denpasar Barat, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia, 80119
• Room rate: starts from Rp1,500,000 per night

5. City of Aventus Hotel – Denpasar

Luxuriate yourself in a newly renovated hotel located near Libbi Plaza. The cleanliness of this hotel is top-notch.

• Location: Jl. Teuku Umar No.74, Dauh Puri Kauh, Denpasar Barat, Denpasar, Denpasar Barat, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia, 80113
• Room rate: starts from Rp611,000 per night

Tips When Visiting Denpasar

If you find pleasure in visiting temples in Bali, the locals might offer you a sarong at the entrance. It will be best to wear a cool and breathable fabric like rayon. In many places considered sacred in Bali, you are recommended not to expose your upper body too much out of respect.

Don’t forget to take your international driver’s licence if you rent a car or motorcycle in Denpasar. Traffic in Denpasar might get crowded on certain occasions, but it would be better to choose a motorcycle if your itinerary is near Denpasar area.