The Emerald of the Equator

Indonesia is the Emerald of the Equator, a place where you can start your day with legendary street food, step into centuries-old temples by noon, and end it with barefoot sunsets on turquoise shores.

You’ll also notice how culture quietly lives in the details, from daily offerings to the playful local sayings you might hear along the way.

For GCC travelers, planning a trip to Indonesia is becoming even easier. Saudia launched scheduled direct flights from Jeddah to Bali (Denpasar) starting March 31, 2025, strengthening air connectivity to the island. 

Now, let’s dive into the top picks Fun and Sun travel experts recommend for the best things to do in Indonesia.

Things to Do in Bali, Indonesia

Bali is where jungle, rice fields, beaches, and temples all meet on one island – and that’s why they call it the Island of the Gods.

This is a place where guests are treated like kings.

Genuine warmth. Constant smiles.

Locals prepare small offerings of flowers, rice, and incense every day, placing them at doors, shops, and temples to thank the gods for peace and balance.

Here are the top things to do for your next Holiday in Bali, as chosen by our Fun & Sun travel experts.

Reading Recommendation: [Best Time to Visit Indonesia + Seasonal Tips ]

Top Things to Do in Bali (Island of the Gods)

Bali is a captivating blend of its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm, welcoming people, which makes people come back again and again.

Here are the top things to do in Bali that are actually worth your time.

 1. Explore Jatiluwih Rice Terraces (UNESCO Site)

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are not just “pretty views”.

They are a living UNESCO site where the Balinese subak irrigation system still works in harmony with nature and spirituality, based on the philosophy of Tri Hita Karana.

For the most vivid green views, plan your visit between February and April.

2. Enjoy a Balinese Massage & Flower Bath in Ubud

If Bali had a signature experience, this would be it.

Balinese massage and flower baths combine traditional techniques, natural oils, and a calming setting that helps reset body and mind. You step in tired and walk out lighter.

In Ubud, you can try places like Kaveri Spa at The Udaya, Spa at Maya Ubud, or Ubud Traditional Spa, where many packages include a massage plus a beautiful flower bath.

3. Visit Tanah Lot Temple

The 16th-century Hindu priest Dang Hyang Nirartha founded the Tanah Lot temple, inspired by the site's beauty, to dedicate it to the sea gods.

known for its stunning offshore setting and sunset views. It is one of Bali's most popular tourist attractions and one of seven sea temples dedicated to the sea god.

At Tanah Lot, you can:

Watch the sunset with the temple silhouette against the sky

Walk around the complex and, at low tide, get closer to the base for photos

Tip: 

Dress respectfully and cover your shoulders and knees out of respect for local traditions.

4. Wander the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud is part jungle, part temple complex, and home to hundreds of Balinese long-tailed macaques.

You can:

Watch the monkeys play, groom, and interact

Walk through lush jungle paths lined with mossy statues

See ancient temples like Pura Dalem Agung and Pura Beji

Safety tips:

Do not feed the monkeys or bring food, snacks, or drinks into the sanctuary.

5. Enjoy the Famous Bali Waterfalls

Bali’s waterfalls are perfect for couples, nature lovers, and solo travelers who want quiet, green corners away from busy streets.

Tegenungan Waterfall

One of the easiest waterfalls to reach in Bali. There are stairs, but they are manageable, with spots to pause for a rest and take photos.

Nung Nung Waterfall

Hidden in the highlands of central Bali, Nung Nung feels powerful and raw. You will hear the roar of the water long before you see it at the bottom of the staircase.

Banyumala and Banyu Wana (Hidden Gems)

 These quieter waterfalls are ideal if you want fewer crowds and more peace.

Banyumala is famous for its twin cascades and clear natural pool

Banyu Wana offers a cluster of waterfalls on one trail

Pro tip: 

These spots are perfect for meditation lovers and yoga fans who want to slow down, breathe, and feel close to Bali’s nature.

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Best Things to Do in Bali for Couples

People always say Bali is a honeymoon haven — beaches, jungles, temples, sunsets, and the whole romantic package.

Whoever said it wasn’t lying. And here’s exactly why:

A: You can feel like a king and queen in Bali — even on a budget.

B: Romance, adrenaline, history, nature… Bali doesn’t make you choose.

C: Some places on this planet feel designed for couples. Bali is one of them.

So here are the Fun & Sun expert picks — the experiences I personally recommend to couples who want Bali at its best.

1. Relax at Nusa Dua Beach

If you want a quiet beach where you can actually hear yourselves talk, walk, and just be together, Nusa Dua is the place.

It’s peaceful, clean, and perfect for slow mornings or long sunset strolls.

And because the waves are gentle here, you won’t be dodging surfers every 3 minutes. Just the two of you, soft water, and island calm.

 2. Go on a Romantic Sunset Cruise

A Bali sunset cruise hits differently: golden skies, warm breeze, soft music, and that moment when the whole ocean turns orange.

It’s one of those experiences couples remember for years, not days.

Dinner on deck, sailing past the coastline, nothing rushed… just a slow, romantic evening that feels straight out of a movie.

If this isn’t a perfect newlywed moment, I honestly don’t know what is.

3. Stay in a Private Pool Villa

Every couple deserves the private pool villa experience in Bali.

Floating breakfast, tropical views, no noise, no rush, just you two, and a tiny luxury moment that makes you forget the world.

It’s intimate, it’s indulgent, and it’s designed exactly for couples who want privacy with a touch of magic.

And yes, it looks as good in real life as it does on Instagram.

4. Take Iconic Photos at Lempuyang Temple (Gates of Heaven)

This is Bali’s famous “Gates of Heaven,” and trust me, it’s worth the early wake-up call.

The view of Mount Agung framed between the split gates is powerful, spiritual, and romantic all at once.

It’s more than a photo stop, it’s a moment couples share surrounded by Bali’s deep culture and sacred atmosphere.

Pro Tip:

Arrive around 6:00 AM if you want that iconic couple shot without spending half your day in a queue.

Decide your poses beforehand, when the camera is ready, you should be too.

 Best Things to Do in Bali with Kids 

Bali Might Be the Best Place in the World for Family Travel.

Bali offers incredible accessibility with kids. You can wake up in a jungle bungalow, swim in a warm sea by afternoon, and finish the day watching a traditional dance in a temple courtyard.

That's why Bali Might Be the Best Place in the World for Family Travel. It provides something to engage every age – without requiring you to plan every second.

1. Waterbom Bali

Waterbom Bali is a large water park in Kuta, Bali, known for its thrilling slides and tropical gardens, which is safe for kids of all ages.

2. Bali Safari Park

Bali Safari Park houses hundreds of animals from Indonesia, Africa, and India in spacious, natural-like habitats where visitors can see them.

Families love Bali Safari Park because it combines conservation with fun, educational experiences like the Safari Journey in trams, interactive animal shows, and a petting zoo.

Families can enjoy their time by taking a Safari Journey, watching animal shows, and exploring the different exhibits and animal encounters available.

3. Turtle Conservation Centres

In Bali, there is a special haven that whispers tales of the ocean's gentle giants. 

This is the Turtle Conservation Center. TCC, a place built on hope and a shared love for the ancient sea turtles.

For families, it’s a living storybook. You walk in, and immediately, the magic begins. because it offers an engaging, hands-on, and educational experience that allows visitors of all ages to directly contribute to wildlife conservation efforts.

4. Bali Treetop Adventure Park

Bali Treetop Adventure Park offers a fun activity set in an open-air environment for groups and families in Indonesia.

An innovative compression system holds all circuit platforms in place to protect trees from any damage.

Throughout the entirety of the Circuits, a lifeline support will keep you attached. Patrol Guides will also position themselves along the circuit, ready to advise and assist as needed – giving support from above and below.

5. Bali zoo

Families love Bali Zoo for its interactive animal encounters, such as feeding elephants and deer, and its immersive, tropical environment with lush greenery.

To maximize your enjoyment at Bali Zoo, plan your visit for opening hours to see animals when they are most active and to avoid crowds

Iconic Bali Temples and Cultural Experiences

Bali's distinct Hindu culture, which permeates all aspects of daily life, including art, dance, and architecture, enriches the island with iconic temples and unique cultural experiences its the perfect holiday activity in Bali.

1. Tirta Empul Temple (Purification Ritual)

Tirta Empul Temple is a significant Hindu Balinese water temple located in Tampaksiring, Bali.

Indonesians founded it around 962 A.D., and they know it for its sacred spring water and the traditional purification ritual, melukat.

Tirta Empul Temple is a top tourism destination in Indonesia because it offers a unique, cultural, and spiritual experience that blends a religious tradition with stunning natural beauty and rich mythology (Purification).

2. Uluwatu Temple

The Cliffside Temple of Bali offers a breathtaking view and a scenic experience to every traveler. You should also enjoy the legendary Kecak Dance at sunset and the general vibes of this Indonesian attraction. 

3. Watch the Kecak Fire Dance at Sunset

The Kecak Fire Dance at sunset is a traditional Balinese cultural performance, often held at the dramatic cliffside location of Uluwatu Temple, where about 60 men perform rhythmic chanting and dance to a traditional story accompanied by fire.

5. Campuhan Ridge Walk

Located near Ubud in Bali, Indonesia, is a beloved destination celebrated for its natural beauty and cultural significance. The Campuhan Ridge Walk offers a serene trekking experience through lush hillsides decorated with rice terraces and tropical vegetation, providing panoramic views that grip visitors at every turn.

 Adventure Activities in Bali

Bali attracts adventurous people as a famous holiday destination due to its diverse range of exciting activities.

From trekking active volcanoes and white-water rafting to exploring underwater shipwrecks and surfing world-class waves.

1. Hike Mount Batur 

Mount Batur attracts hikers as a famous destination because its iconic sunrise views provide spectacular sights from the summit of this active volcano.

It's also popular because it offers a moderately challenging trek for many skill levels, with monkeys beside you, and relax in nearby hot springs after the descent.

2. Explore Munduk Highlands & Hot Springs

Visitors love exploring the Munduk Highlands and Hot Springs for a cooler, quieter, and more authentic Balinese experience away from the crowded coast

with opportunities for active pursuits like trekking to waterfalls and exploring coffee plantations.

Best Beach Clubs & Nightlife in Bali

The beauty of Bali's nightlife lies in its diverse and vibrant scene, which includes everything from trendy beach clubs and high-energy nightclubs to more relaxed rooftop bars, live music venues, and cultural shows.

Finns Beach Club

Finns is the best beach club on the island of Bali. People party and have fun there.

The staff provides first-rate service, and the performers deliver incredible entertainment.

It is an amazing experience, way better than you will expect. The menu consists of several restaurants, and the food is great(the best sushi you will ever try).

Practical Experiences Worth Adding

Safely Renting a Scooter in Bali

Tourists rent scooters in Bali to explore the island cheaply, flexibly, and efficiently, accessing remote areas while avoiding traffic. 

And of course, because it's so fun to cruise around the city at night while vibing with locals.

To rent a scooter as a tourist, you'll need a valid driver's license, passport or ID, and a credit card.

Enjoy Seafood at Jimbaran Bay

People consider Jimbaran Fish Market the best seafood market in Indonesia. You must do this if you are going to visit Bali on your next holiday.

You smell the fresh seafood aroma before you see it. The pure, fresh, clean scent of the ocean, mixed with the salty tang of fresh fish, hits you the moment you enter  Jimbaran Fish Market.

Top-Rated Guided Tour to Book in Bali

To make the most of your adventure, check out our Bali Holiday Packages from Fun&Sun

Things to Do in Jakarta, Indonesia

They say people in Jakarta are some of the kindest in the world, and you feel it fast.

Warm hospitality, big smiles, and a city that never really slows down.

Jakarta is where street food stalls, heritage buildings, and shiny megamalls all share the same skyline.

If you love cities, food, and a bit of high-end lifestyle, a tour in Jakarta will surprise you in the best way.

The beauty of Jakarta lies in this mix

Of modern skyscrapers + rich cultural heritage, especially around icons like Istiqlal Mosque and Jakarta Cathedral.

1. Shop and Eat at Pasar Santa & Jakarta’s Megamalls

If you want to understand modern Jakarta, start with its markets and malls.

Visit Pasar Santa, it's great for:

Local bites, Coffee stalls, Creative, youth-focused shops

Then step into Grand Indonesia Mall, one of the biggest and most popular malls in the country.

Here, you get:

International and local brands, Endless dining options, A polished, air-conditioned break from the heat and traffic

It’s not “just a mall visit”, it’s part of the real Jakarta lifestyle.

2. Visit Jakarta’s Religious Landmarks

Jakarta is also a city of faith, where mosques and churches stand almost side by side.

Istiqlal Mosque

The modern architectural design, vast scale make it Southeast Asia's largest mosque.

And a symbol of national pride and religious tolerance, that's the beauty of Jakarta's Istiqlal Mosque.

Jakarta Cathedral

The beauty of Jakarta Cathedral lies in its stunning Neo-Gothic architecture, with features like pointed arches, soaring spires, and intricate stained-glass windows

3. Explore Pasar Baru

In Pasar Baru, you can shop for goods like textiles, clothing, and electronics, and haggle for deals, while also exploring the market's diverse cultural influences and food stalls.

4. Visit the Fatahillah Museum

Fatahillah Museum is the one place in Indonesia that instantly transports you back in time; it's like an ancient time machine.

Officially known as the Jakarta History Museum, sits right in Fatahillah Square, the epicenter of Jakarta’s Kota Tua (Old Town) district.

must-see attractions inside the museum:

Historic governor’s office quarters with original furnishings.

Ancient ceramics and cannons were recovered from Jakarta’s harbor.

Dioramas depicting the city’s fight for independence.

A haunting, centuries-old underground prison that once housed rebels and criminals.

5. Taman Mini Indah Indonesia 

If you are spending some time in Jakarta, then you should highly consider visiting Taman Mini Indonesia Indah.

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, or just ‘Taman Mini’ for short, is a very popular cultural theme park located in East Jakarta.

things to do as well at Taman Mini Indah Indonesia:

Relax at the Water Park

Enjoy the view of the Children’s Castle

The park contains 14 museums! Definitely, you should visit some of them if you love history.

6. Sea World Ancol

Visitors find the beauty of Sea World Ancol in its diverse marine life, massive underwater tunnel, and educational and engaging exhibits.

The designers give each aquarium display or ride a special theme to provide its own nuance in the message it conveys.

And in addition to increasing knowledge about the displayed aquariums, they also equip them with labels that contain information about what they display, both biologically and features.

Other Amazing Things to Do in Indonesia (Beyond Bali & Jakarta)

Indonesia doesn’t end with Bali and Jakarta, not even close.

If you want to go a little deeper, a little wilder, and a little more, these are the places I always recommend:

1. Explore the Temples of Dieng Plateau

High up in the misty highlands of Central Java, the Dieng Plateau feels like another world. Ancient temples, volcanic craters, colored lakes.

The atmosphere here is mystical and slightly surreal, especially early in the morning when the fog wraps everything in silence.

It’s one of those places you only appreciate when you’ve actually been there.

2. Komodo National Park + Padar Island

If you want the “National Geographic moment,” this is it.

Komodo National Park is home to the legendary Komodo dragons.

huge, prehistoric, and unlike anything you’ll see anywhere else.

Padar Island, right next door, offers one of the most beautiful viewpoints in all of Indonesia.
Three bays in three different colors, it looks unreal until you hike it yourself.

This is adventure territory, and if you’re into nature, boats, beaches, and dramatic landscapes, you’ll fall in love.

3. Relax in the Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are Bali’s quieter, prettier cousins.
No cars, no noise, no stress.

 just bicycles, beach bars, sunsets, and sea turtles gliding through crystal-clear water.

Gili Trawangan for nightlife.
Gili Air for slow living.
Gili Meno for honeymoon-level peace.

Choose your vibe and stay a few days. Your mind will thank you.

4. Watch Sunrise at Borobudur

Borobudur is a giant stone masterpiece, 35 meters high, as wide as a football field, and still one of the most impressive ancient structures in Asia.

Seeing the sunrise here is different.

The temple glows gold, the sky turns soft pink, and the mist floats gently over the jungle and volcanoes in the distance.

It’s peaceful, spiritual, cinematic, all at once.
A moment you don’t rush. A moment you remember.

Planning Your Indonesia Trip

Indonesia is easy to love and even easier to explore if you plan it right.

Choose a mix of islands, balance nature with culture, and don’t try to see everything in one trip.

Pick the things that match your energy, temples, beaches, boats, mountains, or simply slow days in Ubud cafés with fresh coconut on the table.

Fun & Sun experts can help you tailor your Indonesia Holiday itinerary.

 So you experience the best of Indonesia without stress or guesswork.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Indonesia

Indonesia is one of those destinations that gives you experiences, not just places.

You’ll leave with memories, sunrise moments, jungle sounds, ocean views, and cultural rituals that stay with you for years.

Whether you’re going to Bali, Jakarta, or exploring the country’s hidden gems, Indonesia always rewards curious travelers.

And once you visit, you’ll understand why so many people keep coming back.