Best time to visit Bali from the UK

Millions of tourists visit Bali each year, making it one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. The lush greenery, abundant sunshine and rich culture guarantee a memorable experience. While you can visit Bali at any time of year, the weather will often determine which activities are best.

If you want to know the best time to visit Bali from the UK, our guide takes you through the weather, flight prices and things you can do. We’ll help you plan your trip more easily and avoid bad weather, peak crowds and other pitfalls.

We’ll also mention the Wise card, a cost-effective option for spending in Bali. It allows you to spend in 160+ countries, with low, transparent fees* and the mid-market exchange rate.

When is the best time to visit Bali from UK

The best time to visit Bali depends on what you want from your holiday. If you’re looking for sunshine and beach days, the dry season from April to October is ideal, especially July and August. However, these months are also the most popular and therefore more expensive.

Bali’s wet season from November to March brings more humidity and rainfall, but it also means lower prices, fewer crowds and lush scenery. If you don’t mind an occasional shower, you can still enjoy plenty of activities.

We’ll break down Bali’s seasons and help you decide when to visit, along with ideas for what you can do at any time of year.

Dry season: April to October

Since Bali is mainly a beach destination, the dry season between April and October is generally considered the best time to visit. The days are warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the coast and enjoying a variety of beach activities.

Some of the most popular beaches to visit during this time include Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Nusa Dua and Jimbaran. If you enjoy surfing, Uluwatu is a top spot for water sports.

You may experience some rain at the start or and end of the dry season, but overall the weather is usually stable and pleasant.

Peak season: July and August

The busiest months in Bali are July and August, when both international visitors and British tourists arrive in large numbers. Accommodation prices rise significantly during this period and popular attractions become much busier.

Peak season is also a great time to explore the rice terraces, go trekking or hiking. Climbing Mount Batur and visiting areas like Ubud and Teggaland offer a different side of Bali from the beaches, but are equally beautiful.

Transition months: April, May, September and October

If you prefer good weather without the peak-season crowds, April, May, September and October are ideal. These months usually bring mostly clear skies with occasional showers, while beaches are calmer and hotels are easier to book.

April and May are particularly good for surfing on the west and south coasts. Adventurous travellers can enjoy the waves at well-known beaches like Padang Padang or Bingin, as well as explore Bali’s caves.

Wet season: November to March

Bali’s wet season brings more rainfall, higher humidity and warmer nights, but it remains popular for travellers who prefer a slower pace. Rain usually falls in short, heavy bursts rather than all day, leaving plenty of dry hours for sightseeing.

Apart from Christmas and New Year, this is considered low season. You can find affordable accommodation and flights and you won’t have to book months in advance.

Fewer crowds also make popular attractions like Tanah Lot or Tirta Empul more enjoyable. The sea can be rougher in some areas during this season, so water activities like diving and snorkelling may be more affected, but inland adventures are perfect for this period.

The more humid weather makes Bali particularly green in this period, especially the rice terraces and the countryside. Jatiluwih and Tegalalang are some of the most famous terraces.

The wet season can be the best time to visit Bali if you’re looking to explore Balinese culture and natural beauty while saving money. You might even be able to book spacious, luxury villas at a fraction of the usual price.

What to do in Bali

Bali offers a mix of nature, culture and relaxation suitable for every type of traveller. Here are some suggestions for things you should do while in Bali to make the most out of your trip.

Visit the rice terraces

Take time to visit the rice terraces in Bali and learn about the island’s UNESCO-recognised ancient irrigation system. The Subak system dates back to the 9th century and it’s an important part of Bali’s history and agriculture, as well as the island’s community life.¹

Tegallalang and Jatiluwih are some of the most beautiful rice terraces, perfect for peaceful walks and photography. The rice terraces are a must-see for anyone interested in nature, history and authentic Balinese life.

Explore your spiritual side

Bali is a global hub for yoga, meditation and wellness retreats, particularly in Ubud. Many centres offer a range of spiritual practices and workshops, but you can also get private lessons. Your holiday in Bali is a great time for these experiences, along with spa treatments and traditional Balinese massages.

Enjoy outdoor activities

If you’re an active and adventurous traveller, your holiday in Bali doesn’t have to slow down. There are plenty of things to do, such as trekking Mount Batur, rafting near Ubud or visiting waterfalls in the northern region. Surfing is excellent along the south and west coasts, and diving and snorkelling are popular around Amed, Tulamben and the Nusa islands.

Experience the Balinese party scene

Festivals are a fun way to enjoy Bali’s vibrant culture. Independence Day in August features lively parades and street celebrations, while New Year is marked with numerous parties and spectacular fireworks. Participating in these events is a great way to see another side of the island beyond its natural beauty.

Planning a trip to Bali from the UK

Whether you plan to relax on Bali’s beaches, discover its temples or wander through the scenic countryside, your trip is sure to be unforgettable. However, there are a few practical things to organise beforehand to help your trip run without problems.

Bali visa requirements

British passport holders need a visa for Indonesia. You can get a 30-day visa on arrival for tourism and some business purposes, but check if your visit requires some other type of visa.²

The Indonesian visa on arrival (VOA) costs 500,000 Indonesian rupiah and it can be paid both in cash and by card. You can get it at the airport, once you arrive, or online a week in advance. If you apply online, you can also get a 60-day or multiple-entry visa.²

You can extend your 30-day visa once, for another 30 days.²

Flights to Bali from the UK

The best city for flying to Bali is London, particularly London Heathrow and London Stansted airports. The average flight time is around 18 hours and most people fly into Denpasar. Popular airlines flying to Bali are Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines and Emirates, while Ryanair offers the most affordable tickets.³

At the moment, the cheapest months to fly to Bali from the UK are January and February, with fares starting at around £399.³ Flight prices vary based on factors such as how far in advance you book, and your departure airport, so we recommend checking before you decide to book.

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Sources used:

Sources last checked on date: 02-Dec-2025