The ultimate 4D3N Bali itinerary for your next long weekend island escape

If you’re reading this itinerary, you’re probably planning for your next Bali trip or perhaps, thinking of booking a spontaneous escape. Regardless of which option it is, take this as your sign to get ready to jet set over to the beautiful island! Pack your bags, for we’re about to embark on the ultimate 4-day, 3-night Bali escapade.

Known for its picturesque beaches, vibrant culture, and tantalising cuisine, Bali has long been a favoured getaway for us seeking a quick retreat from the hustle and bustle of Singapore. This itinerary promises not just a vacation but a curated experience, blending relaxation, adventure, and culinary delights. So, buckle up as we guide you through the streets of Seminyak, the trails of Mount Batur (for the adventurous), and the shores of Canggu, presenting the perfect blend of leisure and excitement. Here’s The ultimate 4D3N Bali itinerary for your next long weekend island escape.

— Day 1, Friday —

Now, assuming we all make use of the long public holiday weekend to fly to Bali, I highly recommend taking the following Monday off instead of the previous Thursday. You get two short weeks instead of one! And trust me, you don’t want to be flying out on Sundays when there’s a fabulous Sunday market.

Consider booking a morning flight out of Singapore on Friday so you land in Bali right before the check-in time at your hotel or villa. It’s typically around 2pm to 3pm but do remember to factor in at least an hour on the road from the airport to Canggu!

Bali traffic can be notoriously unpredictable but fear not – your trusty motorbike is here to save the day. With the Gojek and Grab apps downloaded, you’re ready to navigate the island with ease. Cruise through the vibrant streets, discover hidden gems, and witness the local life unfold, all while avoiding the infamous traffic snarls. Embrace the freedom that comes with two wheels as you plan your Bali itinerary.

Afternoon, 2pm – Have a late lunch at Penny Lane

Settle into your Bali villa, drop your bags, and off you go. So much to do, so little time! If it’s your first time in Bali, you have to visit Penny Lane. Surrounded by lush greenery, this charming eatery offers a perfect blend of Western and local flavours.

From hearty breakfast classics to innovative twists on Balinese dishes, Penny Lane promises the ultimate alfresco dining experience that’ll please both foodies and photographers.

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Afternoon, 4pm – Shop at Love Anchor Market

Hit up Love Anchor Market just down the road from Penny Lane, in the heart of Canggu. The buzzing market welcomes tourists from all around the globe, with stalls bursting with handmade crafts, funky fashion, and Bali’s coolest souvenirs. Wander through the lively lanes, check out the stalls rocking boho-chic vibes, and get ready to score some unique finds.

From artsy jewellery to quirky local artworks, Love Anchor is like a treasure chest of Bali’s charm. The prices can be pretty steep so budget travellers, you may want to skip this!

Evening, 7pm – Dine at Merah Putih for dinner

As the night falls, venture into Seminyak’s culinary scene with dinner at Merah Putih. Note: this is a restaurant you must visit. Celebrated By The Michelin Star Guide, this upscale restaurant not only serves up a feast for the taste buds but also introduces you to the diverse and rich culinary heritage of Indonesia.

While everything we had that evening was delicious, you simply must get the Sapi Bakar (450,000 rupiah). A night we’ll never forget!

Immerse yourself in the stylish ambiance, high ceilings, superb service, and indulge in a gastronomic journey that sets the stage for the delights to come.

— Day 2, Saturday —

Morning, 2am – Embark on the Mount Batur Sunrise Hike

Rise and shine early for an adventure like no other – the Mount Batur Sunrise Hike. Do note that you by law, you have to do your hikes with a local guide. Most tour groups pick you up from your villa as early as 1.30am, as the drive takes around 1.5-2 hours.

The journey begins before the crack of dawn, as you ascend the trails of Mount Batur, guided only by the faint glow of your headlamp. Feel the thrill of conquering the summit and witness the breathtaking panorama as the sun paints the sky in hues of gold and pink. The hike up takes around 90 minutes and while it’s classified as ‘beginner-friendly’, I recommend interested hikers to have some basic level of fitness otherwise, you may opt for the Mount Batur sunrise 4WD jeep experience instead.

Was the view worth the hike up? Absolutely. Do check the weather forecast early to avoid disappointment though.

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Afternoon, 1pm – Have brunch at Milk & Madu

By the time you get back to your villa, you’ll be just in time for lunch. At this point, you’re most likely running on no sleep post-hike, so reward yourself with a well-deserved brunch at Milk & Madu, located in the heart of Canggu.

Picture this: a cosy, rustic setting, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, and an extensive menu that seamlessly combines breakfast favourites, bar snacks, salads, pasta, and more! I couldn’t resist ordering the Crispy Corn Fritters (90,000 rupiah) and boy, was it the right choice. The portion was generous and oh-so-tasty!

Afternoon, 3pm – Rest & relax at Sundari Day Spa 

After a morning of conquering heights, it’s time to pamper yourself at Sundari Day Spa in Seminyak. No Bali itinerary is complete without a massage! Well-known among Singaporeans, this spa is an oasis of tranquility. Do try to book your slots in advance or Whatsapp them before going down, as they get very packed on the weekend.

Allow skilled therapists to knead away any fatigue, soothe your muscles, and rejuvenate your spirit, with the Traditional Balinese Massage (90 mins) (650,000 rupiah). And perhaps, reward yourself with their Signature Body Exfoliant (60 mins) (600,000 rupiah) and remove dead and dehydrated skin cells and contaminants. Let me tell you, I left Sundari Day Spa feeling like a brand new person!

Evening, 6pm – Visit the iconic Naughty Nuri’s for dinner

Ask anyone where to eat and Naughty Nuri’s will always pop up as one of the recommendations. Located in Seminyak, this joint is not just a restaurant; it’s a Bali institution, known for serving up the best BBQ pork ribs in Bali.

Famous for its succulent pork ribs, this is the spot where flavours go bold, and the vibe is always laid-back. From their Signature BBQ Pork Ribs (198,000 rupiah) that fall off the bone to the wickedly delicious martinis that pack a punch, Naughty Nuri’s promises a feast that’ll leave you grinning. Savour juicy ribs under the dim glow of fairy lights, surrounded by the eclectic decor that tells tales of Bali’s charm.

At this point, I would recommend checking out Bali’s nightlife at Motel Mexicola or Favela but considering the long day we just had, an early night would be the better of the two…

— Day 3, Sunday —

Morning, 10am – Check out La Brisa Sunday Market

La Brisa Sunday Market is a quintessential activity to do with the crew, so add it to your Bali itinerary. Imagine this: strolling through stalls bursting with local crafts, beachy treasures, and unique finds. One rarely leaves empty-handed!

Right after shopping, hop on into the huge beach club and pop on one of the bean bags. Sundays are meant for chilling and over at La Brisa, you get the full experience. Get your tan in while you sip on a fruity cocktail, munch on some chips, and zone out to house music. This was my favourite activity as I planned my Bali itinerary and I’ll gladly come back to do this again, anytime.

Afternoon, 2pm – Pamper yourself at Tonic Day Spa & Botanicals

Just a 5-minute walk down from La Brisa is Tonic Day Spa & Botanicals. When in Bali, there’s no such thing as too many spa sessions. For the ladies and Instagram girlies, this makes for a good space to pamper yourself, while getting in some beautiful photos.

Now, let’s talk treatments. The Cream Bath (60 mins) (290,000 rupiah), a signature experience at Tonic, is a therapeutic hair and scalp treatment that’s pure bliss. The Foot Reflexology (60 mins) (230,000 rupiah) on the other hand is a non-negotiable add-on, especially after that hike yesterday! Set aside the afternoon, escape the scorching, stay indoors, and let the expert hands work their magic, as the tension melts away.

Afternoon, 5pm – Watch the sunset at The Lawn

Another item to add to your Bali itinerary is sunset-watching. Bali is renowned for its sunsets and leaving Bali without watching one good sunset is arguably criminal. As the afternoon mellows into a golden hue, bike over to The Lawn and request a seat on a bean bag.

Surrender to the enchantment of Bali’s twilight around 5.30pm, when the sun starts to paint the skies with hues of amber and rose. Order your favourite tropical libation from the bar or let the mixologists at The Lawn craft the perfect companion to your sunset reverie.

Imagine this: sinking into plush bean bags, your toes in the soft sand, with the rhythmic melody of the waves as your soundtrack. The Lawn sits on top of my list for places to watch the sunset and for one of the best drinks and bar snacks. You have to order the House Cut Fries (60,000 rupiah), Hummus & Pita Bread (70,000 rupiah), and Watermelon Mint Margarita (130,000 rupiah).

Note: remember to bring a portable charge because you’re going to want to take some time-lapse videos!

Evening, 8pm – Try Indonesian Fusion food at Ulekan

End your weekend escape on a gastronomic high with dinner at Ulekan in Canggu. This restaurant takes traditional Indonesian dishes and gives them a modern twist, creating a culinary experience that’s both authentic and innovative.

Don’t skip the cocktails when you’re here because the team at Ulekan goes hard on the shots! The Beduglu Spritz (150,000 rupiah) is the ultimate pink, ladies’ drink, while the Passion Fruit Capirisma (100,000 rupiah) is a vibrant elixir, teasing your senses with its sweet and tangy allure.

Popular food items to try while you’re here include the Sate Ayam Madura (60,000 rupiah), Rendang Sapi (160,000 rupiah), and Nasi Campur Royal (120,000 rupiah).

— Day 4, Monday —

Morning, 9am – The final Bali breakfast at KYND community

Assuming your flight back to Singapore is past noon, seize the final morning in paradise with a heartfelt farewell breakfast at KYND Community. Bali cafés open as early as 6am so pack up and head out for one last meal.

KYND Community’s menu is a symphony of plant-based delights, where each dish is a celebration of flavour and nourishment. Dive into the iconic Acai Smoothie Bowl (95,000 rupiah) adorned with a medley of tropical fruits and crunchy granola. As you sip on your coffee or indulge in a fresh coconut, take a moment to soak in the morning atmosphere before the dreaded check out arrives.

Traffic to the airport can be terrible and clearing customs can also be another nightmare, so I recommend leaving your accommodation at least 3.5 hours before your departure time.

Bali, with its alluring beaches, captivating landscapes, and warm hospitality, has once again proven why it remains a top weekend escape for us Singaporeans. Of course, this itinerary can be customised for those who prefer more beach time, more hikes, or more partying! I hope this serves as a roadmap for your Bali itinerary.

Until the next adventure, may the charm of Bali accompany you, igniting the wanderlust within. Safe travels, and may your weekends be filled with more island escapades!

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