Your Ireland–Bangkok journey will usually take around 14–18 hours including one connection, with common routing through Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Istanbul, or another European hub. Leave plenty of time at the transfer airport—ideally 2–4 hours—and keep medication, a change of clothes, chargers, and basic toiletries in your hand luggage. As you arrive in Bangkok late afternoon or evening, expect immigration and baggage collection at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to take roughly 45–90 minutes.
For central Bangkok, the Airport Rail Link is the most predictable option: trains run approximately 05:30–midnight, take about 25–30 minutes to Phaya Thai, and cost around ฿15–45, though you may need a taxi or local ride-hailing car for the final stretch to your hotel. A metered taxi from BKK is more convenient with luggage; use the official taxi queue on the ground floor, with the fare to Sukhumvit commonly around ฿300–500 plus tolls and the airport surcharge. Allow 45–90 minutes depending on traffic. If staying by the river, a taxi is generally easier than changing trains.
After checking in, keep dinner close to the hotel rather than attempting a major sightseeing outing. In Sukhumvit, look for a busy local restaurant or food court around Soi 11–15, where dishes such as pad kra pao, tom yum, or grilled chicken usually cost ฿80–180; a relaxed full meal should be about ฿150–400 per person. If you are staying riverside, ask the hotel for a nearby neighbourhood restaurant rather than relying on the more tourist-oriented riverfront venues. Have water, keep the evening short, and aim for an early night so you can adjust to the time difference.
Start early at the Grand Palace, ideally arriving around 08:30 when the gates open and the heat is still manageable. Allow roughly two hours to explore the royal courtyards and Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Dress respectfully: shoulders and knees must be covered, and avoid buying tickets from anyone outside claiming the palace is closed. Entry is around ฿500; bring water, but keep it in a sealed bottle. From here, it is a five-minute walk to Wat Pho. Spend about an hour seeing the enormous reclining Buddha and wandering among the quieter tiled courtyards. Entry is approximately ฿300, and the traditional massage school is a good option if you want a short foot or shoulder massage, though today’s schedule is otherwise fairly full.
After Wat Pho, walk to Tha Tien Pier and take the short cross-river ferry to Wat Arun. The crossing takes only a few minutes and costs roughly ฿5–10, with excellent views of the temple from the river. Allow about an hour to see the tall porcelain-covered prang and surrounding shrines; be careful on the steep steps, particularly if the stone is wet. Afterward, return by ferry and take a metered taxi or Grab back towards the Old City—allow 20–30 minutes depending on traffic. This is a good point to rest at your hotel during the hottest part of the afternoon rather than trying to fill every hour.
Head to Thip Samai in the early evening, preferably before 18:00 or after the main dinner rush. The restaurant is famous for its pad Thai, with portions generally costing around ฿150–300, and it is close enough to the Old City to reach by taxi or Grab in 10–20 minutes. Expect queues at busy times, but they usually move steadily. Finish the night on Khao San Road, about a 10-minute walk away. Spend an hour or so wandering the surrounding Banglamphu lanes, trying small snacks or a fresh fruit shake rather than committing to a large meal. It becomes livelier after 19:00; keep phones and wallets secure, agree taxi fares or use Grab, and leave when the noise and crowds start to feel tiring.
Start at the Jim Thompson House Museum, arriving around 09:30 when it opens. Set in a leafy compound near Soi Kasemsan 2, this beautifully preserved traditional Thai house is a calm contrast to central Bangkok’s traffic, with guided tours covering the architecture and the museum’s Southeast Asian art collection. Allow about 1½ hours; admission is roughly ฿200–300, and the nearest BTS station is National Stadium, a short walk away. Afterward, walk five minutes along Rama I Road to the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, which generally opens around 10:00. Spend another 1–1½ hours browsing its rotating contemporary exhibitions; admission is usually free, though some special displays charge a small fee.
Have lunch around Siam before taking the BTS from National Stadium to Chit Lom—the journey is only a few minutes, followed by a covered walk through the shopping district. Keep lunch easy today; Greyhound Café at CentralWorld is a reliable option for Thai dishes and light meals, usually around ฿250–500 per person. Then visit the Erawan Shrine, beside Grand Hyatt Erawan and CentralWorld. It is open daily and free to enter; allow about 30 minutes to watch worshippers make offerings and, if you wish, buy a small flower garland. Dress modestly and keep to the edge of the shrine area during ceremonies.
From Chit Lom, take the BTS to Siam, change for the Silom Line, and continue to Saphan Taksin; from there, use a Grab or taxi to Talad Noi, allowing roughly 25–40 minutes depending on traffic. Begin your Talad Noi street-art walk around 16:00, when the light is softer and the lanes are less punishingly hot. Wander around Charoen Krung Road, Soi Wanit 2, and the old riverside shophouses, looking for murals, shrine courtyards, and the area’s famous vintage car parts. Finish at Jok Prince in Bang Rak, a short taxi or walking journey away. This tiny, popular shop serves smoky Cantonese-style rice porridge with pork and egg; expect ฿100–250 per person and possible queues, especially from 18:00 onward. Bring cash and avoid arriving too late, as the shop can sell out.
Take a morning flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, choosing Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Mueang Airport according to the departure shown on your ticket. The flight is about 1 hour 15 minutes, but allow 2–3 hours in total for getting to the airport, check-in and security. On arrival at Chiang Mai International Airport, a taxi or app car takes roughly 15–30 minutes to the Old City; expect around ฿150–250 by official airport taxi or a little less with Grab. Check in, leave your bags and keep lunch simple so you have time for the afternoon.
Walk or take a short songthaew ride to Wat Chedi Luang, where the vast, weathered chedi is particularly atmospheric in the softer afternoon light. Allow about an hour, and dress with shoulders and knees covered; entry is usually around ฿50. From there, it is only a few minutes on foot to Wat Phan Tao, a smaller and wonderfully peaceful teak temple beside the chedi. Its carved wooden hall and shaded courtyard are worth lingering over for half an hour, rather than rushing straight through. Both temples generally welcome visitors from morning until early evening, although exact hours can vary on religious holidays.
Head north through the Old City towards Khao Soi Khun Yai, around a 10–15-minute walk or a very short Grab ride from the temples. This is a modest local shop rather than a polished restaurant, and it is best visited early—roughly 16:00–17:00—because portions can sell out and opening hours are commonly limited to daytime or early evening. Order the signature khao soi, a rich curry noodle soup with crispy noodles on top; prices are usually about ฿80–200 per person. Afterwards, stroll back through the quieter Old City lanes, keeping the evening relaxed after the flight.
Start around 08:30 at Wat Chiang Man, Chiang Mai’s oldest temple, before the Old City lanes become busy and the heat builds. Allow about 45 minutes to see the Lanna-style viharns, elephant-lined chedi and small historic Buddha images. From there, walk or take a short songthaew or Grab ride—roughly 10 minutes—to Wat Phra Singh. Spend about an hour here, particularly around the richly decorated main viharn and the quieter monastery buildings. Both temples generally welcome visitors from around 06:00–17:00; dress with shoulders and knees covered, and remove shoes before entering temple buildings.
Have a simple lunch around the north side of the Old City, then continue by Grab or songthaew to Wat Lok Moli near the north moat, usually a 10-minute ride. Its large brick chedi and relatively peaceful grounds make it a good early-afternoon stop; 45 minutes is enough, and the open setting is especially atmospheric when the light catches the carved details. Later, head toward the Warorot Market in the Chang Moi riverside area—allow 15–20 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Give yourself around 1½ hours to browse dried fruit, northern sausages, chilli dips, tea, spices and inexpensive textiles. The market is busiest and most interesting in the afternoon, generally running until around 18:00–19:00. If you buy food to take home, pack it securely and check airline restrictions for anything containing meat or fresh produce.
From Warorot Market, Huen Muan Jai in Chang Phueak is about 10–15 minutes by Grab, though traffic can make it longer. Aim to arrive around 18:30, as this popular northern Thai restaurant can fill up and may have a short wait. Order a selection to share—nam prik ong or nam prik noom with vegetables, sai ua northern sausage, and gaeng hang lay are good choices—at roughly ฿250–500 per person. The restaurant usually operates from late morning into the evening, but check its current hours before setting out. After dinner, return to your accommodation by Grab; walking the whole way from Chang Phueak is possible only if you are staying nearby.
Leave Chiang Mai around 08:00 by red songthaew, Grab, or a pre-arranged driver for Doi Suthep–Pui National Park. The winding climb takes roughly 45–60 minutes from the Old City, depending on traffic; a private car is the most comfortable option if you plan to continue to the gardens. Bring a light layer, as the mountain is noticeably cooler, and carry water for the temple steps. A private car for the half-day commonly costs around ฿800–1,500, while shared songthaews are cheaper but less flexible.
Continue to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, reached by the Naga staircase or the small cable car. Allow about 1.5 hours to walk around the golden chedi, admire the detailed Lanna-style shrines and look down over Chiang Mai when the air is clear. Dress with shoulders and knees covered, remove your shoes before entering the main shrine area, and be prepared for occasional mist during the rainy season. After the temple, continue higher into the park to Bhubing Palace gardens, usually open from around 08:30 to 16:30, with an entrance fee of roughly ฿100. Allow another 1–1.5 hours for the rose gardens, landscaped grounds and shaded paths; the gardens are particularly pleasant after the heat of the city.
Return to Nimmanhaemin Road in the late afternoon, usually taking 45–75 minutes from the mountain depending on traffic. This is a good time to browse the small design shops and galleries around Nimman Soi 1, then settle into one of the neighborhood cafés rather than trying to fit in another major sight. The area is liveliest from about 16:00 onward, and you can easily wander between the lanes on foot. For dinner, book or arrive early at Ginger Farm Kitchen, where modern northern Thai dishes use local produce; allow around ฿400–800 per person, and expect popular dinner periods to fill quickly. Afterward, take a Grab back to your accommodation—typically 10–20 minutes to the Old City, longer during evening traffic.
This is the longest travel day of the Thailand section, so arrange a taxi or Grab to Chiang Mai International Airport the night before and aim to be there about two hours before your first flight. Book the flights from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, then onward to Surat Thani, as one protected itinerary if possible; if they must be separate tickets, leave at least three hours between flights and check whether you need to change airports between Chiang Mai’s connection and the Surat Thani flight. Keep essentials, swimwear and medication in your hand luggage, as your checked bag may not be immediately accessible during the connections.
From Surat Thani Airport, follow the signs or operator instructions for the pre-booked Lomprayah bus-and-ferry transfer. The bus to Donsak Pier generally takes around 1½–2 hours, and the ferry crossing to Mae Haad Pier on Koh Tao usually takes roughly 3–4 hours, depending on the sailing and sea conditions. Confirm the designated pier and ferry departure when booking—Surat Thani has several ferry connections—and keep your ticket or booking reference handy. The combined ticket is much easier than arranging separate airport, pier and ferry transport, particularly after a flight day.
You will probably reach Mae Haad in the evening. Arrange your accommodation’s pickup before sailing, especially if you are staying away from the pier; taxis on Koh Tao can be limited and relatively expensive after dark. If your hotel is in Mae Haad, you can walk with light luggage, while Sairee Beach is a short taxi ride away, usually around 10–15 minutes depending on traffic and the hill roads.
Keep dinner simple at Sairee Beach or around Mae Haad rather than trying to fit in sightseeing. Barracuda at Darawan in Sairee is a reliable choice for Thai seafood and western dishes, while The Factory Cafe near Mae Haad is useful for a quick meal or takeaway if you arrive late. Expect roughly ฿150–400 per person for an uncomplicated dinner. Pick up bottled water and any breakfast snacks tonight, then have an early night: your dive centre will normally want you ready early tomorrow, and the first course day is much more enjoyable without adding an island excursion after this transfer.
If you arrived on the late ferry yesterday, keep this morning easy. Start at Mae Haad Pier around 09:00, where the island’s main arrival area is compact and easy to navigate. Pick up cash—ATMs are available, but queues and occasional outages are not unusual—along with drinking water, sunscreen and any toiletries you need. Walk through the nearby lanes to confirm your diving school’s meeting point and start time for tomorrow; most shops open around 08:00–09:00, and a short taxi or motorbike-taxi ride to accommodation usually costs about ฿100–200. Avoid renting a scooter unless you are genuinely confident on steep, sandy island roads.
From Mae Haad, take a songthaew or taxi toward Sairee Beach—roughly 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic and where you are staying. Spend late morning walking the long beachfront, stopping for a swim if conditions are calm. The southern end is generally livelier, while the northern stretch is better for a quieter wander; Fizz Beach Café is a handy casual stop for an iced drink or light lunch, usually around ฿150–350. Keep the afternoon unhurried, as you will want energy for the viewpoint and your first dive-course briefing tomorrow.
After lunch, arrange a taxi to Koh Tao Viewpoint in the south of the island; allow around 20–30 minutes from Sairee, as the roads are narrow and steep. The viewpoint area has an entrance fee of roughly ฿50–100, and the short climb is manageable in sandals but easier in proper shoes. Give yourself about 1.5 hours including the ride, photographs and a drink while looking across the coves and the island’s forested interior. Continue by taxi to Freedom Beach, another 10–15 minutes away. This shaded southern beach is a good contrast to Sairee: swim, wander beneath the coastal trees and settle into the slower pace of Koh Tao. Bring cash for any small entry or drink charges, and do not leave valuables unattended while swimming.
Return to Sairee before dark—allow 20–30 minutes by taxi—and have an early dinner at Barracuda at Darawan. Expect Thai seafood and familiar island dishes at approximately ฿300–700 per person; ordering a few plates to share works well. Keep tonight relaxed rather than staying out late: check your dive operator’s instructions, pack swimwear and a change of clothes, and confirm the morning meeting time. A light dinner, good hydration and an early night will make tomorrow’s first course session much more enjoyable.
Arrive at Roctopus Dive Koh Tao in Sairee at the time confirmed by your instructor—usually around 08:00. Allow 15–30 minutes to register, complete medical and liability paperwork, and check that your mask, fins, wetsuit and other equipment fit properly. If you are staying outside Sairee, take a motorbike taxi or hotel taxi; island taxis commonly charge around ฿100–300 for short shared journeys, while a private pickup costs more. Bring water, reef-safe sun cream, swimwear, a towel and a light snack, and avoid alcohol the night before.
The first day of the Open Water dive course generally combines several hours of theory with confined-water training. You will cover breathing and pressure equalisation, equipment use, hand signals, safety procedures and what to do if something goes wrong, followed by shallow-water skills. Expect the day to run roughly 08:00–16:00, with the exact timetable depending on the school and weather. Do not worry if the first session feels slow or technical—the equipment practice is the part that makes the later open-water dives feel comfortable.
After the confined-water session, return your equipment and confirm tomorrow’s meeting point and departure time with Roctopus Dive Koh Tao. Eat something substantial, hydrate and keep the rest of the afternoon free; even a first training day can be tiring in the heat. Avoid flying, strenuous exercise and alcohol after diving, and do not book a long boat trip for the evening. If you need supplies, the shops around Sairee Road are convenient, but this is better treated as a recovery period than another sightseeing block.
Head to Sairee Beach around 17:30–18:00 for an easy sunset walk. The beach is at its most pleasant near the northern end, away from the busiest bar stretch; bring sandals, as parts of the shoreline can be rocky at low tide. Sunset timing in late September is usually around 18:00, though cloud can make the colours change quickly. Keep the evening relaxed and stay close to shore rather than swimming after dark.
For dinner, take a taxi south to 995 Roasted Duck in Mae Haad, or ask your dive school to point you to the current branch if opening arrangements have changed. This casual Thai-Chinese spot is known for roasted duck with rice or noodles, with meals generally around ฿100–250 per person. It is popular with divers and can become busy at dinner, so arrive before 19:00 if you want a quick meal. Return to your accommodation early, as tomorrow’s course session will usually begin at a similar time.
Be at your dive school at the confirmed meeting time, usually around 07:30–08:00, for the second day of your Open Water course. Expect a full 6–8 hours including equipment preparation, briefings, pool work and your first supervised sea dives. Your instructor will decide the exact dive sites according to weather and visibility, so keep the schedule flexible. The focus is usually buoyancy, controlled descents and ascents, mask-clearing and basic emergency skills rather than sightseeing.
Bring a swimsuit, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, drinking water and something light to eat between sessions. Avoid alcohol tonight and do not fly for at least 18 hours after your final dive—your itinerary already allows plenty of time before leaving Thailand. The dive school will normally provide tanks, weights and equipment, but check whether you need to bring or rent a dive computer. Lunch is often arranged near the school or on the boat; budget roughly ฿100–250 if it is not included.
After returning and showering, head south to Chalok Baan Kao Bay for an easy post-dive break. From Sairee, a taxi or songthaew takes about 15–25 minutes, while a scooter is quicker but only sensible if you are confident riding and are not tired from diving. Spend around an hour by the water, but skip swimming if you feel dehydrated or fatigued. From the bay, continue to John-Suwan Viewpoint, allowing roughly 10 minutes by taxi or scooter and about 20–30 minutes for the short but steep walk up. The viewpoint is reached via a private-area entrance with a small fee of approximately ฿50–100; wear proper shoes, as the rocks can be slippery. Go before sunset rather than arriving after dark, and carry a torch for the descent if needed.
Return to Chalok Baan Kao for a relaxed café meal or smoothie rather than making a long trip back north. This area is quieter than Sairee and works well after a demanding dive day. Allow about an hour and budget ฿150–350 per person for a smoothie, coffee and a simple meal. Confirm the café’s closing time locally—smaller island businesses often change hours with the season—and arrange your return taxi before settling in, as late-night transport in the south is limited and fares rise after dark.
Be at your dive school in Sairee at the time your instructor confirms, usually around 07:30–08:00. Today is the final, assessment-focused day of your Open Water course: expect boat preparation, equipment checks, briefings and the remaining qualifying dives at sites around Koh Tao. The full programme commonly takes 6–8 hours, depending on sea conditions and the dive boat’s schedule. Keep breakfast light, bring plenty of water, reef-safe sunscreen and a dry change of clothes, and avoid alcohol tonight until your instructor confirms that all dives are complete and you have allowed the required no-fly interval.
Once you have completed the final skills and paperwork, check that your certification has been processed and ask the school when your digital or physical certificate will arrive. If you feel unusually tired, cold or unwell, tell the instructor rather than pushing through; the course can be completed safely with adjustments. Taxis and scooters are available around Sairee, but after a long day on the boat a short taxi ride is more comfortable than driving yourself.
After a shower and rest, head to Mae Haad Pier for an easy 45-minute shoreline walk. The waterfront is particularly pleasant as the light softens, with ferries coming and going and small cafés around the pier area. Keep this gentle rather than treating it as another excursion—after several dives, you will likely appreciate sitting by the water more than climbing or swimming. If you need cash or snacks before dinner, Mae Haad is the most convenient part of the island for ATMs, pharmacies and small shops.
Take a taxi from Mae Haad to The Gallery Restaurant in Sairee, normally around 10–15 minutes depending on traffic, for a relaxed Thai dinner. Allow about 1½ hours and budget roughly ฿500–1,000 per person; it is a good choice for a proper meal after the course rather than a quick beach snack. Reserve or call ahead if you are dining at peak time, as popular restaurants can fill quickly in the evening.
Finish with an hour browsing the Sairee night market, sampling tropical fruit, coconut-based desserts and casual Thai snacks. The stalls are informal and prices are generally modest, but carry small notes and cash. Keep tonight low-key: you have completed the course, but your body may still be tired from repeated dives, so return to your accommodation after the market and avoid further swimming or strenuous activities.
Arrange a longtail boat or organised excursion from Mae Haad Pier for around 08:00–08:30, allowing roughly 20–30 minutes on the water each way and five to six hours overall. The crossing can be choppy, so keep valuables in a dry bag and bring reef-safe sunscreen, water and a light cover-up. There is a small entrance fee to Koh Nang Yuan, usually around ฿100–200, and the island can become crowded later in the morning, making an early departure worthwhile. Head first to the famous viewpoint—about 15–20 minutes uphill on a stepped path—then spend time swimming and snorkelling around the sandbar.
Continue to the Japanese Gardens snorkel site on the sheltered side of Koh Nang Yuan for about an hour. The water is generally calm and shallow enough for an easy, unhurried snorkel, though visibility varies with weather and boat traffic. Follow your guide’s instructions and avoid standing on coral; if you are travelling independently, check local sea conditions before leaving Koh Tao. Have lunch on the island or take snacks with you, as food and drinks here are more expensive than on the main island.
Return by boat to Mae Haad in the early afternoon and take a proper break before your final swim at Mae Haad Beach. This is a good place to rinse off, relax under a palm tree and watch the ferry traffic around the pier; allow about an hour rather than trying to fit in another major activity. If you need supplies for tomorrow’s onward journey, use this time to collect cash, confirm your ferry connection and pick up snacks from one of the small shops around Mae Haad.
Head to Sairee by scooter, taxi or shared songthaew—normally 10–15 minutes from Mae Haad, although traffic can slow the road at sunset. Settle in at FIZZ Beachlounge for beachfront drinks and dinner, budgeting approximately ฿400–900 per person. Arrive around 17:00–17:30 to secure a comfortable table facing the sea; the menu is relaxed beach fare with Thai dishes, salads, seafood and cocktails. Stay through sunset, then return to your accommodation without overdoing the evening—the next day’s ferry and flight connections to Bali will be considerably easier if everything is packed and confirmed tonight.
Check out early and be at Mae Haad Pier at least 30 minutes before the first Lomprayah sailing. Allow roughly 1½–2 hours for the ferry to Nathon or Maenam on Koh Samui, including loading luggage. Keep your passport, onward flight details and accommodation address in your day bag; the crossing can be breezy, and larger bags are usually handled separately. At the Samui pier, use the Lomprayah shuttle or a pre-arranged taxi to Samui Airport—allow 45–60 minutes, depending on the pier and traffic. Confirm whether your ticket arrives at Nathon or Maenam, as this changes the airport transfer time.
For this route, leave a generous buffer at Samui Airport. The flight to Bangkok is usually short, but you will need to connect onward to Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar, generally with a total travel time of around 7–10 hours. Keep at least two hours for the Bangkok connection, particularly if your itinerary involves changing terminals, collecting bags or checking in again. Have Indonesian arrival requirements completed before departure and keep some Thai baht for airport snacks; food and drinks at Samui Airport are noticeably more expensive than on the island.
Arrange a hotel car in advance rather than negotiating after a long day of travel. The drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport to central Ubud normally takes 1½–2½ hours, with the worst delays around Kuta, Seminyak and Gianyar; your driver may use the toll road and main bypass where appropriate. Once checked in, keep dinner close to the hotel—Warung Biah Biah is a good-value choice for Balinese plates, while Hujan Locale is better for a more polished meal, with dinner typically around IDR 100,000–250,000 per person depending on drinks and dishes. Take it easy tonight: Bali is one hour behind Thailand, and after the ferry, flights and airport transfer, an early night will make tomorrow far more enjoyable.
Start around 08:00 at Saraswati Temple, before the central streets become crowded and the lotus pond is washed out by the harsh midday light. Allow about 30 minutes for the carved gateway, water garden and quiet temple atmosphere; check the entrance area for any current ceremony restrictions, and wear a sarong or clothing covering your knees and shoulders. From here, walk a few minutes along Jl. Kajeng and Jl. Raya Ubud to Ubud Palace, locally known as Puri Saren Agung. Spend around 45 minutes exploring the ornate courtyards and split gates—some inner areas may be closed when preparations are under way for an evening performance.
Continue on foot to Ubud Art Market, which is best visited before late-morning tour groups arrive. Give yourself about an hour to browse woven bags, batik, woodcarvings and small gifts, but bargain politely: start around 40–50% below the first asking price and settle only if the quality and price feel right. For a nearby coffee or light breakfast, The Spell Creperie on Jl. Monkey Forest is convenient, though the market itself is also surrounded by simple warungs. Keep purchases compact today, as you will be moving north by car.
Arrange a Grab/Gojek car where available, hotel driver or metered local taxi for the journey to Tegalalang Rice Terrace; allow roughly 35–50 minutes each way from central Ubud, depending on traffic. Leave around 13:00, after lunch, and plan approximately two hours at the terraces. The main viewpoints are commercialised, with several separate entrances charging roughly IDR 25,000–50,000, while swings and photo platforms cost considerably more. Choose a signed walking route rather than trying to cover every viewpoint, wear proper sandals or shoes, and bring water—the steps are uneven and slippery after rain. Rice-field activity varies seasonally, so the scenery may be lush green, recently harvested or partially flooded.
Return to Ubud by late afternoon and leave a little time to shower and rest; the return journey can easily take an hour in evening traffic. For dinner, keep your reservation at Locavore NXT well in advance and confirm the seating time and tasting-menu format directly with the restaurant, as menus and prices can change. Expect an inventive Indonesian-focused experience lasting roughly two to three hours, with a tasting menu in the region of IDR 1,000,000–2,000,000 per person, before drinks and service. Wear smart-casual clothing, mention dietary requirements when booking, and use a pre-arranged car for the return rather than relying on finding a ride immediately after dinner.
Leave central Ubud around 07:30 by pre-arranged driver or Grab/Gojek car for Tirta Empul Temple in Tampaksiring. The drive usually takes 35–50 minutes, depending on traffic; a driver is more practical today because the temples and waterfall are spread across rural roads. Arrive close to opening, generally around 08:00, before the purification pools become busy. Allow about 1½ hours to see the courtyards and sacred spring complex. If you wish to take part in the melukat purification ritual, hire a local temple guide at the entrance, wear a sarong and sash, and follow the bathing sequence rather than treating it as a swimming pool. Entry is roughly IDR 50,000, with modest additional costs for lockers or a guide.
Continue by car for about 20–25 minutes to Goa Gajah in Bedulu, arriving in the late morning. Spend around an hour exploring the carved cave entrance, bathing pools and leafy ravines; the site is best enjoyed slowly, as the paths can be uneven and slippery after rain. The entrance fee is usually around IDR 50,000–60,000, and sarongs are available at the gate. Keep your shoulders and knees covered, and avoid carrying loose food or plastic bags around the temple grounds.
From Goa Gajah, allow approximately 35–45 minutes by car to reach Tibumana Waterfall in Apuan. Stop for lunch at a simple local warung along the route rather than returning to Ubud—rice dishes, noodles and fresh juices are generally inexpensive, around IDR 40,000–80,000 per person. From the parking area, the walk to the waterfall takes roughly 10–15 minutes down steps and a forest path. Allow 1½ hours overall for the visit, including time beneath the broad cascade; bring sandals with grip, a dry bag and a change of clothes, as the rocks and path can be slick. Swimming conditions vary after heavy rain, so follow local advice.
Head north-west for about 35–45 minutes to Sangeh Monkey Forest, a quieter alternative to the busier forest in central Ubud. Arrive around 16:00, when the light softens and the forest is cooler, and allow 1½ hours for the shaded paths, ancient trees and temple surroundings. Keep phones, sunglasses, snacks and dangling bags secured, and do not feed or touch the monkeys. The sanctuary usually closes around 17:00–17:30, so check the latest local closing time with your driver before setting out; admission is commonly around IDR 30,000–50,000.
Return to the Ubud area for dinner at Warung Babi Guling Pak Dobiel, a popular place for Balinese suckling pig. It is best to arrive before the evening rush, as the signature dish can sell out; expect a plate with pork, crisp skin, vegetables and rice to cost roughly IDR 100,000–250,000 per person. Ask your driver to confirm the exact branch and current opening hours, then return to your accommodation by car—allow 20–40 minutes depending on where you are staying.
After breakfast, check out of your Ubud accommodation around 09:00–09:30 and travel south by pre-arranged hotel car or Grab/Gojek. The drive to Seminyak is normally 1½–2½ hours, but traffic around Mengwi, Kerobokan and Sunset Road can make it longer. A private car usually costs around IDR 250,000–500,000; ask the driver to use the main southbound route rather than narrow shortcuts if you have larger luggage. On arrival, leave your bags at your hotel if the room is not ready, then allow about an hour for check-in and a quick rest.
Once settled, take a short taxi ride or walk towards Petitenget Temple, one of the few surviving historic temples in this busy coastal part of Bali. Allow around 45 minutes to look around the compact compound and appreciate the contrast between the old temple walls and the cafés and villas of Petitenget. Wear a sarong and cover your shoulders and knees; one is often available at the entrance, but bringing your own is more comfortable. There is generally no fixed admission charge, though a small donation is appropriate. Avoid entering any areas marked for worshippers, particularly if a ceremony is underway.
From Petitenget Temple, it is roughly a 10–15-minute walk to Seminyak Beach, although the sandy lanes can be awkward in places. Spend about 1½ hours here, ideally arriving by 16:30–17:00 for a swim, a cold drink at one of the beach bars, and sunset. The beach is more suited to sitting and watching the surf than relaxed swimming, especially when waves are strong; keep valuables with you and check local flags before entering the water. After sunset, take a short Grab/Gojek ride inland to Warung Nia for Balinese grilled meats and shared plates. Budget approximately IDR 150,000–350,000 per person, and reserve or arrive early if possible, as the popular tables fill quickly.
Begin around 08:00 at Double Six Beach, when the sand is quieter and the heat is still manageable. Spend about 1½ hours walking south Seminyak’s broad shoreline, taking a swim if the red flags are down and conditions are calm. The beach is free, though loungers typically cost around IDR 50,000–100,000 if you want shade; leave bags with your hotel rather than unattended on the sand. From there, take a Grab or Gojek north towards Batu Belig Beach—allow 15–25 minutes, depending on traffic—and enjoy another relaxed 1½-hour break. This stretch is generally less hectic than central Seminyak, with a quieter local feel and simple warung-style refreshments nearby. Swim only in marked safe areas and follow the lifeguards’ advice, as currents can be strong.
Have lunch somewhere near Batu Belig, then continue south by car to Seminyak Village, usually a 15–25-minute ride. Allow around 1½ hours to browse the boutiques, independent labels and air-conditioned shops, a useful respite from the afternoon humidity. It is also a convenient place to pick up gifts or replace beach essentials; most shops operate roughly 10:00–22:00, although individual boutiques vary. Keep the afternoon unhurried rather than adding another sightseeing stop, and use the mall’s cafés for a cold drink before heading towards Petitenget.
Book Potato Head Beach Club well ahead, particularly for a pool seat or sunset visit, and take a short Grab or Gojek from Seminyak Village—normally 10–20 minutes. Arrive around 16:00–16:30 for the late-afternoon atmosphere and stay for the sunset, pool and music; entry is often free, but seating, minimum spends and event arrangements depend on the booking type. Bring a little patience for the Petitenget traffic and allow extra time if arriving by car. Afterward, walk or take a very short ride to Bambu Restaurant, where elegant open-sided pavilions surround a water garden. Reserve for around 19:30–20:00 and expect approximately IDR 500,000–1,000,000 per person before drinks; the Indonesian menu is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Arrange your return to the hotel before dinner, as drivers can become harder to find around Petitenget later in the evening.
Check out of Seminyak around 08:00–09:00 and take a pre-booked hotel car or Grab/Gojek to Sanur via Jl. Sunset Road and the coastal roads. The journey usually takes 45–90 minutes, though allow extra time if traffic is building around Denpasar. Ask your Sanur accommodation to store your bags if the room is not ready, then head straight to the shoreline.
Walk or hire a bicycle along the Sanur Beach promenade, a relaxed paved path running beside the calm eastern coast. Allow about 1½ hours, with time to pause at the small jetties and watch the traditional fishing boats. A bicycle generally costs around IDR 50,000–100,000 for the day; avoid cycling in the hottest part of the afternoon and bring water, as shade is intermittent.
Continue north along the promenade to the Le Mayeur Museum, open roughly 08:00–16:00, with admission commonly around IDR 10,000–50,000. The former home of Belgian artist Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur is compact and atmospheric, with Balinese-style rooms, a garden and paintings that capture the island’s light. Allow about an hour, then take a relaxed lunch nearby rather than trying to fit in another major sight.
Return to your accommodation for a swim or rest before heading to Sindhu Night Market from around 18:00. It is an easy walk or short ride from central Sanur, and an excellent place to try local favourites such as nasi campur, grilled seafood, sate lilit and pisang goreng; expect to spend around IDR 50,000–150,000 per person. Finish at Genius Café Sanur in Mertasari, reached by a 10–15-minute car ride, for a beachfront drink or dinner. Budget approximately IDR 150,000–350,000 per person, and check the evening weather before going—the open-air seating is best enjoyed when the sea breeze is gentle.
Make this your last unhurried Bali morning. Walk, cycle, or take a short Grab/Gojek ride south along the Sanur beachfront to Mertasari Beach, arriving around 08:00 before the sun becomes intense. Allow about 1½ hours for a swim, a slow stroll along the promenade, and breakfast or coffee from one of the nearby beach cafés. The water is generally calmer here than on Bali’s western beaches, but still check local flags before swimming; reef shoes are useful at low tide. Keep valuables minimal, as this is a better place for a quiet final outing than for leaving belongings unattended on the sand.
Continue north on foot or by bicycle along the paved beachfront path, allowing roughly 25–35 minutes from Mertasari Beach, or take a short local ride if the heat is building. Spend about an hour around the Bali Museum Le Mayeur area and the older lanes behind the coast. Check the museum’s opening status before setting out, as hours can change; if it is closed, the surrounding heritage streets and shoreline are still worthwhile. This part of Sanur feels noticeably quieter than the main hotel strip, with small family compounds, flower-filled shrines, and old villas tucked behind the cafés. Carry cash for small drinks or snacks, and remember that bicycles are easiest on the beach path rather than the busy main road.
For lunch, head to Jamu Wellness Café, a short ride inland from the beachfront. Allow around an hour for a light meal and Indonesian herbal drinks such as jamu, especially if you want to avoid feeling overly full before tomorrow’s flight. Budget approximately IDR 150,000–300,000 per person. It is worth confirming the day’s opening hours and reserving if you want a particular table, as smaller wellness cafés can fill during the lunchtime period. Afterward, return to your hotel for a proper rest during the hottest part of the afternoon.
Around 16:30, make your way to Sindhu Beach in northern Sanur, usually 10–20 minutes by bicycle or 5–15 minutes by car depending on your hotel and traffic. Spend about 1½ hours along the promenade, browsing the nearby market stalls or choosing a beachfront drink while the light softens. This is an easy final sunset stop because it keeps you close to your accommodation and avoids committing to a long cross-island journey. Return to the hotel after sunset and spend an hour at your Sanur travel-preparation stop: reconfirm the airport transfer, check whether you are departing from Ngurah Rai International Airport’s domestic or international terminal, weigh bags, keep passports and boarding details together, and settle any hotel bill. For an international flight, arrange to leave Sanur roughly three hours before departure, allowing about 30–60 minutes for the airport transfer depending on traffic.
Have breakfast and check out early, then leave your Sanur hotel approximately three hours before your international flight. The drive to Ngurah Rai International Airport normally takes 45–90 minutes, using Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai; allow extra time if travelling during the morning rush or after heavy rain. Ask your hotel to arrange a car the night before, as this is more reliable than waiting for a ride at checkout. Keep passports, boarding passes, travel insurance details and any remaining Indonesian rupiah in your hand luggage.
At Denpasar Airport, arrive at least three hours before departure. International check-in, immigration and security can be slow, particularly in the late afternoon and evening. After check-in, you will find cafés, duty-free shops and lounges airside, but do not rely on the airport for a substantial meal if you have dietary requirements. Use any remaining rupiah before boarding, as smaller notes and coins are difficult to exchange. If you have checked luggage, confirm that it is tagged through to Ireland—especially if your itinerary involves separate tickets or a self-transfer.
The journey from Bali to Ireland will typically take 17–24 hours, with one or two connections through hubs such as Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. Keep medication, a change of clothes, chargers and essential documents in your cabin bag. On arrival in Ireland, allow time for immigration, baggage collection and any onward connection before considering the trip complete; the long westbound journey and time difference can make the final arrival day feel longer than expected.