Ubud looks different when you’re riding in a vintage VW Thing. This day tour strings together the places most people come to see, temples and rice terraces, while you sit back with a professional driver at the wheel. My favorite parts are the open-air ride and the fact that so much is handled for you, including entrance fees and a solid lunch.

What I really like is how the day is built around convenience: pickup from any hotel in Ubud, mineral water, and even cool towels when the heat gets annoying. You also get a Balinese buffet lunch, so you do not spend your day hunting for food. The one possible drawback is the overall schedule, 5 to 8 hours starting at 8:00 am, so plan for a full, sunny day and pack for it.

If you can, request Santanu (some people see it written as Santana) because his driving and local know-how are a standout. Still, the tour is only as good as the match between you and the driver, so if you are picky about comfort, make your request early.

Key things that make this Ubud VW tour worth your time

• Vintage open-air VW Thing experience, roof down, big views from the road
• Hotel pickup in the Ubud area so you start the day relaxed
• Entrance fees, lunch, water, and cool towels included for fewer stress stops
• Professional driver who handles the route around Ubud
• Balinese buffet lunch to keep energy up for temple and terrace time
• Insurance coverage (Jasaraharja) included as part of the day

A Vintage VW Thing makes Ubud feel like a movie set

Ubud in a classic Volkswagen Thing is not just a mode of transport, it changes the way the day feels. With the roof down and the windshield down, you get that breeze-on-your-face sensation, and the views feel bigger than they would from a closed car.

I also like that this tour doesn’t treat “seeing Ubud” like a checklist. The day is designed as a relaxed cruise with stops that match what people actually picture when they think of Ubud: temples, rice terraces, and the surrounding landmarks that define the area.

One more smart element is that it is structured as an all-inclusive day. When entrance fees, lunch, water, and cool towels are already built in, you spend less time negotiating small logistics and more time paying attention.

Hotel pickup in Ubud: starting at 8:00 am, already winning

This tour starts at 8:00 am, and pickup is available from any hotel in the Ubud area. That matters because Ubud traffic can be unpredictable, and being picked up means you do not waste precious morning time getting to a meeting point.

Once you’re on board, you can settle into the day. You have a professional driver, so you can focus on scenery and getting good photo angles without worrying about directions or parking.

You’ll also want to think about timing in terms of heat. In Bali, mornings can be comfortable, but midday can go full sun mode fast, so use the early start well, and keep an eye on shade during outdoor stops.

Temples, rice terraces, and landmarks: the heart of the route

The core of the experience is simple: you cruise around Ubud while visiting major sights, especially temples and rice terraces. You do not need to be a temple expert to enjoy this part. What you want is time to look, a chance to photograph respectfully, and enough flexibility to absorb how the area is laid out.

Temples in Ubud are often most meaningful when you arrive in a calmer rhythm, not as a rushed photo sprint. With a driver handling the route, you can spend your energy on what you see: incense, ceremonial details, and that quiet, ritual atmosphere that fits the setting.

Rice terraces, on the other hand, reward patience. Even if you have seen terrace photos online, the real thing hits differently when you’re standing near the viewpoint, seeing how layered and textured the fields look. The tour format helps here because you’re not juggling your own timing between spots.

A practical caution: temple visits usually mean you need to dress appropriately. Bring a light cover-up or wear something that can be adjusted easily at your stops, because it is easier than scrambling at the last minute.

Entrance fees, donations, and what’s actually included in the day

One reason this tour feels like good value is that it bundles in costs that can add up quickly. You get entrance ticket coverage as part of the experience, plus donations and the classic car itself.

You also get insurance under Jasaraharja. I like that this kind of coverage is included, because it’s one less item you have to remember to arrange separately for a day trip.

The tour also includes mineral water and cool towels. In the Ubud heat, those details are not “nice to have,” they help you stay comfortable enough to keep moving and enjoy each stop instead of powering through.

Lunch that keeps you fueled: Balinese buffet, not a random snack

Lunch is included, and it’s a Balinese buffet. For a 5 to 8 hour day, that matters because it prevents the usual trap of choosing a mediocre meal that leaves you hungry or tired.

A buffet also means you can match the food to your mood. If you want something comforting, you can choose from the familiar options. If you feel adventurous, you can try more of the local flavors without making one big gamble.

One small strategy I recommend: eat at a steady pace, then take a few minutes to cool down. You’ll likely have more outdoor viewing after lunch, and a short reset makes a difference.

Why the professional driver experience matters more than you think

A good driver is not just about getting you from A to B. In Ubud, it’s also about pacing, positioning you well for the route, and keeping the day feeling smooth.

This tour leans on that with a professional driver, and the reviews highlight how much difference it makes. The names that come up most are Santanu (sometimes spelled Santana). People request him specifically because he is friendly, caring, and very good at making the day feel effortless.

If you’re planning this as a highlight day, I’d treat the driver request like part of your planning. When you ask for Santanu early, you improve your odds of getting a guide who can turn driving time into useful context and help you enjoy the ride more.

The VW ride: what you gain, what you should prepare for

The open-air VW Thing is the main character here. You’ll feel more connected to the street, the greenery, and the atmosphere. It’s also why the tour can feel special even when you’re doing similar sightseeing as other tours.

But open-air comes with realities. You should expect sun exposure and breeze, and you’ll want basic comfort items. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and something light to protect your skin. If you’re sensitive to dust, a face mask can help when roads get dry.

Also think about comfort for getting in and out at stops. A classic car experience usually means different steps or seating feel compared with a modern vehicle. That doesn’t make it bad, just means you’ll want to be ready to move smoothly.

Price and value: $87.18 for a full day that’s already costed out

At $87.18 per person, this can be good value compared with DIY costs. The key reason is the math is largely handled for you: entrance fees, lunch, water, and cool towels are included, which adds up fast in Ubud.

DIY can work if you enjoy planning and negotiating. But if you want a clean, low-friction day with a classic car ride, this price starts looking fair. You’re paying for time saved and for someone else to manage the route and the day’s “extras” so you can focus on the sights.

One more value lever is the driver quality. When the driving and guiding are strong, the whole day clicks better. Given that Santanu is specifically called out, that’s a practical way to maximize your spend.

Who should book this Ubud Daily VW Tour

This tour is a strong fit if you:

• Want a classic car experience that feels like part of the sightseeing
• Prefer a driver-led day over navigation and ticket hunting
• Like temples and viewpoints, plus scenic countryside time
• Want lunch and entrance fees handled in advance

It’s also likely ideal for couples, first-timers in Ubud, and anyone who wants a highlight day without overplanning. And since most people can participate, it should work for a broad range of visitors, as long as you’re comfortable with a full day starting early.

If you’re the type who hates long car days, or you need very short sightseeing windows, this might feel like too much time on the move. The good news is the route is designed for cruising and stops, not sprinting between checkpoints.

Small practical tips so your day stays smooth

A few things I’d do before you go:

• Request Santanu when booking, if that option is available to you. People consistently mention him by name.
• Bring a light cover-up for temple visits, and wear clothing that can handle heat.
• Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle if you like having extra.
• Use the cool towels and water early, not only when you feel miserable. Stay ahead of the heat.
• Bring a small bag for personal items so you’re not juggling things while getting in and out.

Also, take advantage of the ride itself. The VW Thing is part of the charm, so pause and look out during transfers, not only at the stops. That’s when you catch the best atmosphere.

Should you book the Daily VW Tour in Ubud?

If you want an easy, classic-ride day that hits the main Ubud sights without making you manage details, I think you should book. The best reasons are practical: pickup from your Ubud hotel, a professional driver, and key inclusions like entrance fees, lunch, water, and cool towels.

I’d skip it only if you dislike full-day schedules, or if you need a highly specific set of named temples and exact timings. This tour is more about cruising Ubud in a VW Thing and seeing the highlights in a relaxed way.

If you book, do one thing to stack the odds in your favor: request Santanu. It’s the kind of driver choice that can turn a good day into a great one.

FAQ

What time does the Ubud VW tour start?

The start time is 8:00 am.

How long is the tour?

It runs about 5 to 8 hours.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes. Pickup is offered from any hotel in the Ubud area.

What is included in the price?

The tour includes entrance ticket coverage, donations, a classic car experience, a professional driver, mineral water, cool towels, and lunch (a Balinese buffet), plus insurance under Jasaraharja.

Do I need to bring my own lunch or tickets?

No. Lunch and entrance fees are included, and you’ll use a mobile ticket.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.

Are there limits on who can join?

Most travelers can participate.

What happens if the minimum number of travelers is not met?

If the tour is canceled due to not meeting the minimum travelers requirement, you’ll be offered a different date or experience, or you’ll receive a full refund.