Travellers taking cheap flights to Denpasar will land at Ngurah Rai Airport, about 13km away. Bali's capital city often goes unexplored in favour of spending more time on the island's beaches, but it's worth a look. It's home to thousands of Balinese from other parts of the island, has a rich history (heartbreaking at times) with some good museums, a lively events calendar and great markets.
The Badung Puputan in 1906 is one of the most stirring events in Balinese history. In the face of an advancing Dutch army, the Raja and his followers committed mass suicide rather than be captured or defeated. Today, a statue in Taman Puputan Badung Square commemorates the event. It's a shady spot, popular with the locals who visit at the weekends.
Denpasar has some great local markets - day and night. Pasar Badung is the largest market, selling food and clothing to locals, Pasar Burung, the noisy and colourful bird and small animals market, and Pasar Malam Pekambingan and Pasar Kereneng, night markets.
As far as beaches go, there are several within easy reach. Kuta, Legian and Canggu are best for surfing, Sanur for sunbathing.