Denpasar may not be at the top of everyone’s tourist wishlist, but its offerings of temples, local activity, markets and Indonesian cuisine make it well worth exploring on a day trip.
Instead of hailing taxis, use ride-share apps like Grab or Gojek instead. Make sure to negotiate your fare before getting in and be sure to bring cash in rupiah as many places only accept this currency, particularly temples and religious sites. Amsterdam to Denpasar from Cathay Pacific can easily get you inside the country.
1. Hire a car and driver
Car rental in Denpasar is a popular way to experience both luxury and convenience, offering freedom and variety in exploring at your own pace. From luxurious convertibles to affordable minivans, there is something available that fits every taste and budget.
Driving in the city can be challenging for visitors, with traffic often moving at an unpredictable pace as drivers shift lanes without signaling and squeeze through gaps that don’t really exist. Furthermore, animals such as chickens can block roadways – it is therefore wise to remain alert for possible danger from dogs or chickens that dart in front of cars.
Denpasar can be both hot and humid during peak hours, which requires you to ensure your air-conditioner is operating optimally. Furthermore, due to being a religious city, remember to bring an appropriate clothing item like a sarong or sash when visiting temples.
Sarongs are often worn by locals as a sign of respect to Hindu gods and goddesses, so when visiting temples it’s best to dress modestly.
Denpasar may not offer as many tourist attractions as other parts of Bali, but it does feature several temples and shopping opportunities. Furthermore, Denpasar provides an opportunity to get acquainted with Indonesian culture as well as local activities.
As the capital of Bali, Denpasar offers plenty of local flavor. Experience traditional cuisine and shop for authentic local crafts – perfect whether for day trips or overnight stays – in this cultural gem of an island. Make the most of your road trip by renting with a company offering unlimited mileage and full-to-full fuel policy to maximize savings and enjoy driving with peace.
2. Stay in the heart of the action
Denpasar is the bustling capital of Bali and home to some of its greatest tourist attractions; while other parts of the island may boast more renowned sites, Denpasar remains an oasis of culture, temples, local activity, markets and Pura Jagatnatha Temple as well as the Bali Museum.
Denpasar’s ideal time to visit is between April and October during its dry season; however, peak tourist season on the island runs from mid-June through mid-September (especially over Christmas-New Year) when prices may increase significantly.
One of the best ways to discover Denpasar is on foot, and there are plenty of interesting sights in its center. These include shops, bars and restaurants as well as stunning temples such as Pura Jagatnatha Temple which combines two temple complexes into a single one dedicated to fertility goddess. An iconic example of Balinese architecture.
Pura Taman Agung is another must-see attraction located south of Denpasar that is home to numerous bird species. Situated near Sanur and Kuta, this forest provides ample opportunities to spot local wildlife while sitting quietly awaiting one to come by! Besides that, there are watchtowers within its boundaries for you to observe when waiting for that perfect moment to spot one!
Visit Patang Catur Muka for an authentic cultural experience: it serves as a grandstand for an annual parade of ogoh-ogoh (fishermen’s boat). Not intended for tourists, this authentic parade provides an ideal opportunity to learn more about local traditions.
Denpasar offers several engaging afternoon activities to keep visitors occupied, including I AM Bali 3D Museum. This interactive art museum boasts some interesting 3D trick-art paintings. Additionally, their entrance hall has been themed after Platform 9 3/4 from Harry Potter so this would make a fantastic family outing option!
Denpasar offers many attractions worth seeing and doing, making the ideal locations to stay near them both convenient and cost-efficient. From big chains to luxurious resorts, there is something suitable for every traveller’s taste when searching for accommodation here.
3. Explore on foot
If museums and temples aren’t your thing, why not explore Denpasar on foot instead? Explore Puputan Square and Bajra Sandhi Monument as your first stops; these monumental complexes serve as reminders of Indonesians’ historical struggle for independence and sovereignty.
At Denpasar Arts Museum, experience culture through interactive exhibits that range from religious artifacts and images of Disney characters to popular culture icons like Pokemon. This museum serves as more than just a gallery; it serves as a cultural center offering educational and interactive experiences centered on Balinese tradition and religion while offering modern attractions like Pokemon characters!
Option 2 is taking a short stroll to Maospahit Gerenceng Temple, built during the Majapahit Empire and considered an important cultural heritage site of the region. This landmark features its distinctive brick design complemented by 4 terracotta and 2 dwarapala statues representing various deities.
Denpasar Fish Market is another must-visit attraction, where you can observe how locals purchase seafood. Fishmongers here provide an assortment of fish not commonly sold elsewhere across Bali or Indonesia, including some that you won’t find elsewhere.
Sanur’s 7-kilometer beach stretch provides the ideal place for those who prefer more natural surroundings to take an enjoyable coastal walk in the early morning, when air quality is fresh and calm.
Or take an enjoyable cycling tour through Denpasar city center – this will allow you to gain insights into its rich history while getting some exercise as well.
Anyone looking to explore a city without worrying about transportation can hire a private car via one of the numerous ride hailing apps available in Bali. But as this option can prove costly if you’re not local; therefore it is advisable to use a reliable Bali Res Center which offers competitive car rental quotes to make sure that their trip runs smoothly.
4. Stay local
Denpasar may not offer as many tourist attractions as other parts of Bali, but that doesn’t stop visitors from coming here and discovering something exciting! Travellers to this Indonesian capital will enjoy exploring a range of sights and experiences as well as local cuisine, shopping opportunities and an insight into daily life on Bali.
Most visitors to Bali arrive via Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), clearing security and customs. After taking care to reserve a car or taxi ride to their hotel from there – typically 20 minutes’ drive – well signposted routes can lead you directly into town from Ngurah Rai Airport.
Pop Hotel is an excellent example of mid-range accommodations, providing comfortable rooms at an extremely reasonable cost. For added luxury, consider Griya Tunjung Sari located close to both Badung Market and the convention centre.
Although the city center may not be considered an active party district, there are still places where one can enjoy drinks and snacks during evening events. Depot Cak Asmo is popular among students and government employees; their delicious crispy calamari starts from Rp15,000.
There are also a few bars and clubs in the city centre, but most visitors tend to avoid them in favor of Seminyak and Kuta. Arena Pub and Restaurant is a favorite among expats – especially on Friday nights when live bands perform!
As soon as it gets light in the morning, exploring a city should ideally be done on foot. Most major attractions can be reached easily on foot from start to finish and most visitors find this form of exploration easier than public transport. When in crowded areas though it is wise to keep a close watch over your personal possessions at all times as pickpocketing or purse snatching may occur so a small bag containing all valuables would be wisely stored with you at all times.
Public transport options in Jakarta’s city centre include buses. However, their reliability can vary considerably and for your own safety we suggest flagging down a taxi rather than taking public transport. When hailing a cab it is wise to negotiate its fare first before getting in; and have exact change as drivers often try and scam tourists out of money. Ride-sharing apps such as Grab and Gojek may be safer options.
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