Many first-time visitors to Bali make the mistake of skipping Denpasar in their tour of the island, but there's really lots to see and do in this ancient city, rebuilt after the puputan massacre of 1906, when the royal families of Denpasar committed suicide rather than surrender to the invading Dutch army. Denpasar today is a bustling city of some 400,000 inhabitants and more vehicles per capita than Jakarta.

Located in the northeast of Kuta, Denpasar is a parish capital with an aristocratic history. Formerly a market city, Denpasar has grown to be a metropolis city. A variety of attractions from historical memorial to art center can be found in Denpasar. As the capital city of Bali, Denpasar has been a focus of development although it still retains pleasant environment.

The Bali Museum consists of a charming series of separate buildings, including models of both palace and temple structural design. There are various arts, crafts and other items to display, while Abiankapas is the arts center with collection of modern painting and woodcarving. Abiankapas is also a location where traditional dances and gamelan performances take place. There are also several department stores. Early mornings are recommended as the midday sun can be draining.