Shopping in Ubud: Top Spots and Tips for a Memorable Experience

From early morning until noon, these traditional markets are the hub of activity for locals selling all sorts of goods — from batik cloth and woven bamboo to wooden statues and handmade jewelry. Thinking of unique souvenirs or aesthetic home décor? Definitely there!

But it's not just about handicrafts; this is also a paradise for local foodies. You'll find tasty snacks, fresh spices, and drool-worthy traditional food.

Located in the heart of Ubud, right across from Puri Saren Ubud, Ubud Art Market is the best place to hunt for Balinese crafts. Compared to other traditional markets, this market focuses more on high-quality art and souvenirs, like paintings, wooden sculptures, rattan bags, and beautiful woven fabrics. The vibe is vibrant and colorful, with stalls selling a variety of artistic knick-knacks, perfect for those looking for unique souvenirs or tropical home décor.

Pstt... Let me tell you, shopping here requires some strategy! The prices are usually higher than the actual price, so don't hesitate to bargain! Starting at 70-80% of the price can be a great trick. Also, make sure to walk around before you decide to buy, as there may be other stalls offering similar items at more reasonable prices. For a more pleasant experience, go early in the morning before the place gets crowded with tourists.

If you're into serious art hunting, Sukawati Art Market is a must-have on your itinerary. As the largest art market in Bali, it offers a wide selection of items ranging from traditional paintings, wooden sculptures, batik cloth, and woven bags to handmade silver jewelry. Many local artists and craftsmen sell their work directly here, so you can find unique items with a personal touch that are hard to find elsewhere.

This market is also known for its lower prices compared to the art market in central Ubud, as long as you have good bargaining skills. The usual market trick works here, too — walk around first, compare prices, and bargain casually but politely.

This is not only a place for shopping but also a favorite culinary destination for tourists and locals alike. Along the street, rows of food stalls offer a variety of Balinese dishes, from babi guling, ayam betutu, sate lilit, to traditional snacks like jaje laklak and pisang rai.  All super budget-friendly!

Aside from the food, you can also find stalls selling clothes, accessories, and unique trinkets that are often cheaper than other tourist areas. It has a laid-back mood, with yellow lights that give it a warm and traditional twist. If you want to experience an authentic local vibe while enjoying good food, Gianyar Night Market is a must-visit for a night out in Bali!

Did you know that there are many boutiques in Ubud that specialize in traditional textiles? Let's just say Balinese ikat weaving, songket, and batik, with designs that remain relevant for modern styles.

Each piece of fabric for sale has a story to tell about the skillful hands that weave it with generations-old techniques, motifs that reflect life philosophies, and efforts to preserve culture amidst global trends. So, suppose you want to take home something more than just fashion. In that case, the boutique shopping in Ubud is ready to offer a stylish, ethical, and meaningful spending spree.

Threads of Life is a definite must-visit if you're looking for a piece with a story and some meaning. This boutique is not just a textile shop but also has a social mission to preserve traditional Indonesian weaving techniques and support artisan communities across the archipelago. Each fabric sold here is made with natural dyes and hand-weaving techniques passed down through generations, making it beautiful and environmentally friendly.

Along with the fabric collection, Threads of Life also offers a range of other products made from natural fibers, including scarves, bags, and home décor.

Kou Bali offers something different —- handmade soaps and natural body care products made with high-quality local ingredients. The flagship products are artisanal soaps made without harsh chemicals, using virgin coconut oil and natural essences like vanilla, frangipani flower, and citrus. They also have beautifully packaged handmade sweets, perfect for unique souvenirs from Bali.

This shop is famous for its eco-friendly handmade products, ranging from home décor, textiles, to fashion with a minimalist tropical style. All items here are made with natural materials and traditional techniques, so they're not only gorgeous, but there's a story behind them too.

From earthy vibes and linen cushions to aesthetic wooden tableware, every corner of this shop makes you want to redecorate your home Balinese-style. Oh, and if you like soft casual clothes, their clothing collection is definitely worth a look. After all, shopping here makes your whole heart feel good because you are getting good stuff and supporting fair trade and environmentally friendly practices.

This boutique might be familiar to you. They are known for their menswear and unisex collections made from high-quality fabrics, including linen and organic cotton, that are comfortable to wear in Bali's tropical climate. The designs are simple, earthy, and timeless — perfect for those looking for casual yet polished outfits.

On top of the cozy materials, the boutique also prioritizes ethical production and sustainability, working with local artisans to create clothes that are good to wear and have a positive impact on the community — a good combo!

As Bali's center of art and culture, Ubud offers a wide range of galleries that showcase the work of local and international artists, from the classical to the experimental.

Each gallery here has a unique character — some focus on traditional Balinese paintings, others showcase modern and avant-garde art, and still others combine cultural elements with fresh visual explorations. Let's take a look at some of them!

This museum is not just a showroom, but rather a tour of Bali's art history, featuring a collection of paintings that illustrate the development of styles and techniques over time.

Here, you can see works by renowned Balinese artists like I Gusti Nyoman Lempad, as well as paintings by foreign artists inspired by the beauty and culture of Bali. Apart from traditional art, Neka Art Museum also displays contemporary art that shows how the creativity of Balinese artists continues to evolve.

Beyond displaying an impressive art collection, this museum is also a cultural center that is active in preserving and developing Balinese art. Inside, you can find works from legendary painters, including I Gusti Nyoman Lempad and Ida Bagus Made, as well as international artists like Walter Spies and Rudolf Bonnet. The collection spans classical Balinese paintings, Kamasan style, and modern art, illustrating how art in Bali continues to evolve without losing its roots.

What makes ARMA special is its lively atmosphere — there are often dance performances, art workshops, and painting classes that you can join! So, if you prefer to experience art in a more interactive way, this is the place for you, babe!

The museum is the home and studio of Antonio Blanco, an eccentric Spanish-American artist who fell in love with Bali and settled in Ubud. His works are famous for their sensual and colorful surrealist style, many of which are inspired by the beauty of Balinese women.

Upon entering, you will be greeted by the grand European-Balinese architecture that reflects Blanco's unique character. A collection of his expressive and exotic paintings is displayed in an ambiance that feels very personal, almost as if you are stepping into his imaginative state. The museum also houses art studios, a library, and a tropical garden inhabited by exotic birds — in keeping with Blanco's love for nature and beauty.

If you're the type of shopper who likes to find specific, quality items that have a story behind them, then specialty stores in Ubud should definitely be on your list! Many of these stores emphasize ethical values, like the use of natural materials, sustainable production, and support for local communities. So, shopping here is not just about bringing home cool stuff but also participating in a more mindful and conscious lifestyle.

If you're looking for healthy groceries, organic produce, and eco-friendly goods, Ubud Organic Market is the place to go. The market offers a wide selection of pesticide-free fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, natural honey, and healthy snacks such as granola and energy bars — all from local producers using sustainable farming methods.

Along with food, there is also a wide range of natural health and beauty products, from essential oils and herbal soaps to organic skincare that is safe for the skin. You can also find eco-friendly products like recycled shopping bags, bamboo straws, and biodegradable food containers.

If there's one place that truly reflects the healthy lifestyle in Ubud, Bali Buda is it! It's one of my go-to places. More than just a shop, Bali Buda is a combination health food store and café that offers a variety of organic products, healthy food, and eco-friendly goods.

In the store section, you can find a variety of organic products, from gluten-free flour, nuts, and superfoods to healthy snacks like granola and energy balls. They also have a selection of eco-friendly household products, including organic soaps, essential oils, and reusable packaging. Meanwhile, the café serves a menu that supports healthy eating, from fresh smoothie bowls and organic salads to homemade sourdough bread. All the food here is made with natural ingredients, without MSG or preservatives!

Shopping in Ubud is not just a transaction, but also an exciting and colorful experience, isn't it? I mean, from bustling traditional markets to unique, stylish boutiques, there's a lot to explore. But in order not to get bogged down and still enjoy each and every moment, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Bargaining Etiquette

• In short, start with a smile and make a reasonable offer — don't just cut the price in half.

• Ideally, start at 70–80% of the price offered, then slowly increase while remaining friendly.

• If it's not a deal, say thank you and pretend to walk away — sometimes this trick makes the seller fall for it.

• If the price offered is already reasonable, don't negotiate to an extreme level to save money. Remember, cheap shopping at the market is not just about getting good prices but also about supporting local artisans.

Payment Methods

In Ubud, most traditional markets and small shops still prefer cash transactions, so be prepared with cash, especially small denominations, so you don't have to worry about paying. However, if you're shopping at boutiques or specialty stores, credit and debit cards are usually accepted, although some places may charge extra for card transactions. If you don't want to go through the hassle, bring along your e-wallet or mobile banking — some modern stores have started using QRIS. Basically, always be prepared with a variety of payment options to keep things drama-free!

Best Times to Shop

If you want to do some shopping at a traditional market, coming early in the morning before 9 AM is the best option. The goods are still fresh, the crowd is quieter, and vendors are more likely to give you a good price because of the belief that "the first customer brings fortune." If you're heading to a boutique or specialty store, late afternoon is more convenient, as the stores are fully open and less crowded.

Supporting Local Artisans

Shopping in Ubud isn't just about bringing home pretty things; it's also about making a positive impact. Many local artisans pour their hearts and skills into every weave, carving, and piece of jewelry they make. By buying directly from them, you're not only getting a more authentic and quality item but also helping to maintain the traditions and economy of the local community. So, instead of buying mass-produced products that can be found everywhere, choose unique handicrafts that have a story — because every purchase can be a small investment in Bali's culture!

Shopping in Ubud can be a marathon, running from the market to the boutique and then on to an art gallery. Then suddenly, before you know it, your legs start to ache! Luckily, Ubud has many cozy cafes and restaurants where you can stop by and recharge. Looking for a nice coffee, a healthy snack, or a big meal before heading out to hunt down unique goods? You've got plenty of options for the perfect pitstop in the middle of your shopping trip!

Best Restaurants in Ubud

You can sip single-origin coffee brewed with love at Seniman Coffee Studio, which is perfect for those who need a caffeine boost. If you prefer a place with an artsy vibe, Lazy Cats Café has a bohemian-chic interior that's aesthetically pleasing, plus healthy snacks to keep you glued to your seat.

Want to have a quick brunch instead? Watercress Café is there to save the day with fresh croissant sandwiches and smoothie bowls. And if you want a more zen atmosphere, Clear Café is the place to be! Kick off your sandals, sit back, relax, and enjoy a refreshing tropical juice. Check out our list of best restaurants in Ubud to discover more!

Best Bars in Ubud

From hidden gems to rooftop bars with magical views, Ubud has plenty of great bars to relax. Perhaps you're looking for exotic cocktails, fine wines, or simply live music to unwind to? The options won't disappoint! From the tropical vibes at Jungle Fish Bar, the elegant ambiance at Night Rooster, to the cool rooftop view at Copper Kitchen & Bar, there's something for every mood in Ubud. For more inspo, check out this list of the best bars in Ubud and find the place that fits you perfectly!