Welcome to Bali, where your wallet isn't the only thing that'll get lighter; your suitcase will start bulging with goodies! Ubud's stunning art and vibrant Batik clothing are just the tip of the iceberg. Bali isn't just a paradise for beach lovers and foodies; it's a treasure trove for shopaholics and souvenir hunters. Whether you're here to snag local crafts, indulge in retail therapy, or absorb the scenic views, you're in the perfect spot. So, get ready to give your shopping bags a workout in Bali's bustling markets and chic boutiques! 

Starting your journey to Indonesia begins with securing your visa, and using a service like Atlys can simplify this process significantly. Atlys is designed to streamline the often complex visa application procedure, making it more accessible and less time-consuming for travellers.

What should I buy in Bali?

Whether you're hunting for iconic Balinese goods, one-of-a-kind local crafts, or affordable mementoes, here are the famous things to buy in Bali, unique items worth splurging on, and cheap yet charming buys you shouldn't miss: 

• Famous Things to Buy in Bali: Kopi Luwak Coffee, Balinese Silver Jewellery, Fabric and Clothing, Wood Carvings, Bali Ceramics, Beach Attire, Rattan Bags, Barong Masks, Balinese Paintings

• Unique Things to Buy in Bali: Wayang Kulit (Shadow Puppets), Kecak Dance Masks, Gamelan Balls, Wood Furniture, Balinese Sambal, Spices and Herbs, Lontar Palm Leaf Books, Traditional Musical Instruments

• Cheap Things to Buy in Bali: Dupa (Incense), Dream Catchers, Homemade Balinese Soap, Balinese Chocolate, Spa Essentials, Beauty Products, Keychains & Trinkets, Fridge Magnets

This Bali souvenir list can continue, but these are some of the most popular and unique items you should take home. Now, let's dive deep into the list.

Kopi Luwak Coffee

Advice: When buying Kopi Luwak, look for ethically sourced and certified products to ensure no harm to animals.

This isn't just coffee; it's a story in a cup. Made from beans that have travelled through a civet (yes, the animal), Kopi Luwak is one of the world's most unique brews. Luxurious, rare, and with a taste as rich as its backstory, this coffee offers a jolt of caffeine and culture. Kopi Luwak is considered one of the most expensive coffees in the world due to its unusual production method.

• Category: Beverage

• Where to find: Ubud Market or speciality coffee shops around Seminyak.

• Average price: $35 to $100 per 100 grams.

• How to identify: Look for certifications on the packaging for authenticity and ethical sourcing.

Pro tip: Experience a tasting session at a plantation to understand the different qualities before purchasing.

Balinese Silver Jewellery

In the villages of Celuk and Ubud, artisans craft silver using skills passed down through generations. These elegant creations are more than accessories; they connect to the island’s rich cultural heritage. Make sure to buy a piece of art as silver jewellery to show off in your home. 

• Category: Accessories

• Where to find: Celuk village; John Hardy Workshop for high-end purchases.

• Average price: $20 to several hundred dollars.

• How to identify: Genuine pieces are marked with a "925" stamp.

Interesting fact: Celuk Village artisans often incorporate ancient techniques, like granulation and filigree, which have been preserved for centuries.

Fabric and Clothing

The island's fabric is not just material; it’s a canvas of culture painted in vibrant colours and intricate patterns. Bali’s fabrics are one of the popular Bali shopping items. Batik, ikat, and other textiles tell stories of tradition, making each piece a wearable piece of art.

• Category: Textiles

• Where to find: Threads of Life in Ubud, Ubud Market.

• Average price: $10 to over $100.

• How to identify: Look for natural fibres and traditional dyeing methods.

Interesting fact: Batik-making is so culturally significant in Indonesia that it's been designated by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Wood Carvings

The island’s wood carvings are a deep dive into its rich folklore. Each piece, whether a deity, dragon or delicate flower, is chiselled precisely, reflecting the carver's intimate ties to the material and the myth. Traditional Balinese wood carving started as a sacred craft for decorating temples and royal palaces.

• Category: Home Décor

• Where to find: Mas Village, Tegallalang Handicraft Center.

• Average price: $15 to $100+.

• How to identify: Check for detail and craftsmanship indicative of hand carving.

Pro tip: Direct purchases from the artisans can often ensure better prices and authenticity.

Bali Ceramics

Bali's ceramics are as much a feast for the eyes as they are a testament to the island's volcanic nature. Every bowl, cup, and plate carries the earthy essence of Bali, making everyday meals a ceremonial feast. The natural materials used in Balinese ceramics often include local clays and volcanic ash, which give the pottery unique properties and a distinctive finish.

• Category: Pottery

• Where to find: Gaya Ceramic in Ubud, Jenggala Keramik in Jimbaran.

• Average price: $5 to $50+.

• How to identify: Handmade quality and a maker's mark.

Pro tip: If buying ceramics, inquire about shipping options directly from the store to ensure your treasures make it home safely. 

Beach Attire

Bali is a global influencer in beach fashion, often dictating trends seen on beaches worldwide. Bali’s fashion is made for its endless summer. Light, breezy, and always in vogue, the island’s beach attire blends practicality with runway readiness. If you want interesting beachwear with unique prints and quality, Bali is the place for you. 

• Category: Clothing

• Where to find: Beach markets in Kuta and boutique shops in Seminyak.

• Average price: $15 to $100+.

• How to identify: Look for light, breathable materials suitable for tropical climates.

Rattan Bags

Handwoven rattan bags showcase Balinese artisans' intricate craftsmanship, a skill passed down through generations. Ubud and Seminyak are famous for their art markets, where these stylish and eco-friendly bags are sold. Rattan weaving is deeply ingrained in Balinese culture, representing a harmony between nature and human craftsmanship, which is crucial in the Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, which emphasises the balance between humans, nature, and the spiritual.

• Category: Accessories

• Where to find: Art markets in Ubud, Seminyak boutiques.

• Average price: $20 to $60.

• How to identify: Check for tightly woven rattan and a sturdy construction.

Interesting fact: Rattan weaving is not just a craft in Bali but also a sustainable practice, as rattan is a readily renewable resource and biodegradable.

Barong Masks

Guardians of the Home. These masks are not merely decorative, they are protectors. With fierce expressions, Barong masks ward off evil spirits and bad fortune, making them a powerful addition to any home.

• Category: Cultural Artefacts

• Where to find: Art markets in Ubud, Batubulan village.

• Average price: $25 to $200+.

• How to identify: Genuine masks are hand-painted and carved from pule wood.

Interesting fact: The Barong is a mythical creature in Balinese culture, and these masks are used in traditional dances that depict the battle between good and evil.

Balinese Paintings

Balinese paintings show the island’s spiritual life, mythology, and daily rituals. With intricate storytelling, vibrant colours, and symbolic imagery, each piece reflects the harmony between humans, nature, and the divine. From traditional Kamasan-style narratives to contemporary abstract interpretations, Balinese art offers something for every aesthetic.

• Category: Fine Art

• Where to find: Museum Puri Lukisan in Ubud, Sukawati Art Market, Semar Kuning Gallery

•  Average price: $10 to $300+ (depending on size, artist, and framing)

• How to identify: Look for traditional themes like Ramayana scenes, village life, or Barong dances; authentic pieces are typically hand-painted on canvas or bark.

Tip: Ask the artist or gallery about the story behind the painting. Many works are rich in symbolism and meaning, making them even more special souvenirs.

Unique Things to Buy in Bali

Wayang Kulit (Shadow Puppets)

Wayang kulit are traditional leather shadow puppets that play a central role in Balinese narrative arts. These are especially prevalent in Ubud's cultural markets. Stemming from Hindu-Javanese cultural traditions, wayang kulit is a form of storytelling used in Bali to convey spiritual and moral lessons through epic narratives.

• Category: Cultural Artefacts

• Where to find: Cultural markets and puppetry shops in Ubud.

• Average price: $20 to $150.

• How to identify: Authentic puppets are intricately painted from buffalo hide.

Interesting fact: This art form is so valued in Indonesian culture that UNESCO designated it a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, acknowledging its role in the cultural and spiritual life of the communities.

Kecak Dance Masks

These masks, used in the iconic Kecak dance, can be found in cultural souvenir shops across Bali, particularly in areas known for their dance performances like Ubud and Uluwatu. The Kecak dance is a form of Balinese dance and music drama that developed in the 1930s and was widely performed for local and tourist audiences. These masks represent the Ramayana epic characters, central to Balinese cultural and religious life.

• Category: Cultural Artefacts

• Where to find: Cultural souvenir shops in Ubud and Kuta.

• Average price: $30 to $200.

• How to identify: Masks should be hand-carved and feature traditional Balinese motifs.

Pro tip: When choosing a mask, consider its symbolism and story. It is a great conversation starter and a meaningful addition to your decor.

Gamelan Balls

Gamelan balls are miniature echoes of Bali’s traditional orchestras. These metallic instruments bring the rhythmic beats of the island right into your living room, one chime at a time. Gamelan music is traditionally a form of communal art, played not for concerts but as an integral part of ceremonies and dances.

• Category: Musical Instruments

• Where to find: Bali Music Shop in Denpasar, Ubud Market.

• Average price: $20 to $50.

• How to identify: Check the sound quality; authentic balls have a deep, resonant sound.

Pro tip: Listen before you buy to find the tone that resonates with you.

Wood Furniture

Balinese wood furniture, found in artisan villages like Mas, reflects the island's rich tradition of wood carving. Wood carving in Bali is a centuries-old craft, integral to creating religious and cultural artefacts. Today, it is evolving into an internationally recognised art form that furnishes homes worldwide with a piece of Balinese culture.

• Category: Furniture

• Where to find: Furniture shops in Mas Village, Ubud area.

• Average price: $100 to several thousand dollars.

• How to identify: Look for high-quality wood finishes and Balinese carving styles.

Balinese Sambal

This fiery condiment is a staple in Balinese cuisine and is sold in every local market, from Ubud to Denpasar. Sambal's roots in Indonesian cuisine highlight the archipelago's rich history of spice trade. Balinese sambal incorporates local ingredients that give it a distinct flavour, celebrating the island's culinary heritage.

• Category: Food

• Where to find: Local supermarkets and traditional markets in Denpasar.

• Average price: $2 to $10 per jar.

• How to identify: Authentic sambal will list traditional ingredients without preservatives.

Tip: If you love a culinary challenge, use sambal to spice up your home cooking. It pairs wonderfully with everything from seafood to scrambled eggs.

Spices and Herbs

Bali's markets are vivid in the history of the spice trade. Local spices and herbs are sold, reflecting the island's role in the historic Spice Route. Ubud's markets are particularly famous for these aromatic condiments. These spices not only flavour local dishes but also have medicinal properties integral to traditional Balinese and Indonesian healing practices.

• Category: Food

• Where to find: Spice markets in Ubud and local grocery stores.

• Average price: $1 to $15, depending on the type and quantity.

• How to identify: Freshness can be noted by vibrant colours and strong aromas.

Lontar Palm Leaf Books

These ancient manuscripts are crafted from dried palm leaves and etched with Balinese script using traditional tools. Historically used to record religious texts, myths, and medicine, these books are now cherished as unique cultural keepsakes and decorative pieces.

• Category: Cultural Artefact

• Where to find: Ubud Art Market, Museum Gedong Kirtya in Singaraja

• Average price: $10 to $100+, depending on size and detail

• How to identify: Long, rectangular leaf pages bound with string or bamboo; text is inscribed and sometimes ink-rubbed to reveal detail.

Pro tip: Handle these gently, they are fragile items often made using time-honoured techniques passed down through generations.

Traditional Musical Instruments

Balinese instruments are as much about visual beauty as musical sound, from the resonant gongs of the gamelan to hand-carved bamboo flutes and kendang drums. Many are hand-painted or etched with ornate designs, making them stunning souvenirs, even for non-musicians.

• Category: Musical Instrument / Cultural Souvenir

• Where to find: Sayan Music Shop in Ubud, Sukawati Market, local art fairs

• Average price: $15 to $150+ depending on size and craftsmanship

• How to identify: Made from bamboo, bronze, or hardwood; look for decorative carvings and traditional motifs.

Pro tip: Smaller instruments like bamboo flutes make great gifts and are easy to pack, ask about local shipping or display-only options for larger pieces.

Cheap Things to Buy in Bali

Dupa (Incense)

The scents of Bali’s dupa - incense - are more than just pleasant aromas; they are a bridge to the divine and one of the cheap things to buy in Bali. The use of incense in Bali is deeply rooted in the daily practice of Balinese Hinduism, where it's used to purify the air and invite positive energy. Lighting one is like opening a window to the island’s soul, inviting peace and prayer into your space.

• Category: Aromatherapy

• Where to find: Local markets throughout Bali, especially in Ubud.

• Average price: $5 to $20.

• How to identify: Authentic incense usually comes in natural scents like sandalwood or jasmine.
  

Beauty Products

Who needs a ticket to paradise when you can bring paradise home? The beauty products are like bottling the island's tropical breezes and sun-kissed blooms, making them one of Bali's famous things to buy. Found in natural shops across Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak, these potions for skin and hair start at just $10. They're all-natural, no chemicals included, so you're just getting the good stuff.

• Category: Personal Care

• Where to find: Natural shops in Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak.

• Average price: $10 to $50.

• How to identify: Ingredients should be natural, with no added chemicals.

Pro tip: Always check for products with ingredients you can recognise and pronounce; simplicity is key to natural beauty. 

Homemade Balinese Soap

Crafted from local ingredients like coconut and papaya, Balinese soaps offer a glimpse into Bali's rich tradition of using natural resources for skincare. Ubud's markets are a hub for these artisanal products. The tradition of using natural essences and oils in personal care products dates back to ancient Balinese rituals where cleanliness and body care were integral to spiritual purity and balance.

• Category: Personal Care

• Where to find: Local markets and organic stores in Ubud.

• Average price: $3 to $10 per bar.

• How to identify: Soaps should contain local ingredients like coconut oil or Balinese herbs.

Pro tip: The best soaps have the simplest ingredient lists; fewer additives mean a purer product. 

Balinese Chocolate

Balinese chocolate is made from locally grown cacao, enhanced with unique island flavours like citrus and spices. This industry reflects Bali's agricultural richness and can be explored at chocolate factories in Ubud. The volcanic soil of Bali provides a rich terroir for cacao trees, with the island's chocolate gaining popularity as a high-quality, artisan product showcasing its landscape's unique tastes.

• Category: Food

• Where to find: Chocolate factories and speciality shops in Ubud.

• Average price: $5 to $20.

• How to identify: Look for locally sourced cacao content and natural sweeteners.

Pro tip: Look for chocolates using cacao sourced from local Balinese farms to ensure you get the real deal. 

Spa Essentials

Spa culture in Bali is an extension of the island's traditional healing practices, which are an integral part of Balinese Hinduism, focusing on balancing the mind, body, and spirit. Bali is synonymous with relaxation and wellness, with its spa products encapsulating the essence of the island's spa culture. These products are often infused with Balinese flowers and herbs, found predominantly in spa resorts and local shops across Ubud, a town known for its healing retreats. 

• Category: Wellness Products

• Where to find: Spa stores in major resorts and Ubud markets.

• Average price: $15 to $100.

• How to identify: Products should feature Balinese ingredients and therapeutic properties.

Interesting fact: Many spa products in Bali are based on ancient recipes passed down through generations, focusing on natural ingredients to heal and rejuvenate both body and mind.

Dream Catchers

Originally not from Bali but embraced by the local artisan community, dream catchers are found throughout the island's markets, especially in areas with a strong artistic presence like Ubud. They resonate with Bali's spiritual and artistic ambience, blending native and global cultures and reflecting the island's status as a melting pot of traditions.

• Category: Decorative Items

• Where to find: Handicraft markets in Ubud and along the streets of Seminyak.

• Average price: $10 to $40.

• How to identify: Genuine dream catchers are handmade with natural materials.

Pro tip: Choose a dream catcher with elements like shells and beads for a piece that truly resonates with Balinese aesthetic traditions.

Keychains & Trinkets

These small but charming souvenirs are perfect for remembering your Bali trip or gifting friends back home. Often shaped like surfboards, temples, animals, or Barong masks, they’re easy to carry and come in endless designs, from wooden carvings to resin pieces.

• Category: Souvenir

• Where to find: Street markets in Ubud, Kuta Art Market, Tanah Lot souvenir stalls

• Average price: $1 to $5

• How to identify: Look for “Bali” engraving, local motifs, or handcrafted detailing. 

Tip: Buy in bundles, you can often haggle for a better deal when purchasing multiple pieces.

Fridge Magnets

Fridge magnets are a classic souvenir, and Bali does not disappoint. These tiny collectables feature everything from sunsets and surfboards to temples and cheeky monkeys, capturing the island’s vibe in bite-sized form.

• Category: Souvenir / Home Decor

• Where to find: Airport shops, Ubud Market, roadside souvenir stalls

• Average price: $1 to $3

• How to identify: Usually colourful and lightweight, made from wood, resin, or metal, with “Bali” or iconic imagery.

Tip: Great for last-minute gifts and super travel-friendly—stock up and keep a few extras handy!

Shopping Tips in Bali

Shopping in Bali is an adventure! Here are quick tips to help you make the most of your shopping spree:

• Early Shopping: Hit the markets early to enjoy cooler temperatures and potentially better deals as vendors consider the first sale of the day lucky.

• Bargain Friendly: Don't be shy about bargaining. Start at a lower price and negotiate with a smile; it's part of the fun and expected of Bali's markets.

• Cash Transactions: Carry cash, especially smaller denominations, as many shops and market stalls don’t accept cards.

If you prefer using cards over cash during your shopping adventures in Bali, consider opting for a good Forex card. Forex cards are prepaid travel cards you can load with currency before travelling.

• Examine Quality: Inspect the craftsmanship of any item. Bali is known for its artistry, so make sure what you buy is well-made.

• Understand and Respect Culture: Learn about the cultural significance of the items you’re interested in. Respecting local traditions enriches your experience and connection to your purchases.

• Stay Comfortable: Remember to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. Shopping under the sun can be draining, and it’s important to protect yourself.

• Safety First: Keep an eye on your belongings. Busy markets are prime spots for pickpockets. Carry a secure bag and always keep it in front of you. Read the detailed safety guide for Indonesia.

Pack Light, Leave Heavy With Love & Souvenirs!

So, as your Bali shopping spree ends, remember that every market stall and boutique offers its little slice of island magic. The answer to your question:  What is famous in Bali that you can buy? Well, it's not just the items but the stories they tell and the memories they carry. Pack light when you come because you'll leave heavier, not just with goods but a heart full of Bali! Happy shopping, and don’t forget to leave room in your suitcase for a bit of Bali’s soul.