Denpasar tourist guide

Denpasar is the political and administrative capital of Bali and by far the largest city on the island. Located close to the beach resorts of Kuta, Legian and Sanur, if feels much less hectic and has a pleasant small town atmosphere. Away from the commercial centre, traditional life continues much the same way as it has for generations and the city can boast lots of accessible culture with museums, arts venues and historic temples.

Denpasar is a functional city with few tourist-orientated amenities. There is no beach, little nightlife and limited dining for western tastes. What it can boast in abundance however in addition to its culture, is the best range of shopping on the island. If you revel in the energy and chaos of Asian street markets this is the place to be.

There are also many fine department stores, a whole street devoted to colourful jewelry shops and plenty of family run craft workshops to browse. Few travellers linger long in Denpasar due to its limited facilities for holidaymakers, but it makes for a welcome change of scenery from south Bali’s busy beach resorts. There is more than enough distractions to easily fill a rewarding day trip to Denpasar.

Denpasar is the major hub of all public transport in Bali with frequent mini bus services around town and island wide starting from here. Dining is one of Denpasar’s real pleasures with prices much cheaper than you will find in any of the tourist resorts. Although Western restaurants are in short supply, it has the very finest Balinese food, delicious street snacks and numerous quality Indo-Chinese eateries.

There are many intriguing monuments and temples to explore in Denpasar, some dating back over 300 years. Staying in Denpasar can really save a packet with the island’s keenest accommodation prices that generally stay low even during the busy peak tourist season.

Attractions
History and art lovers will find plenty of inspiration in its fascinating museum or watching epic dance dramas in one of its elegant cultural venues… more

Restaurants
Other than international and local cuisine, there is a heavy presence of fast food outlets and European style bakeries in Denpasar, ideal for the homesick snacker… more

Hotels
Denpasar is best suited to the budget traveller with a good range of cheap family run guest houses at bargain prices and some good mid-range business hotels for those who crave a few more creature comforts… more

Nightlife and bars
Heading out on the town in Denpasar is different from anywhere else in Bali with tourist-orientated venues giving over to local clubs and karaoke bars… more

Transportation
With four main bus terminals and reasonably convenient connections, you can easily plan day trips or comprehensive island tours in Denpasar… more