Advertisement

Transport in Bali

Transport in Bali can feel a bit chaotic at first, but honestly, once you get the hang of it, moving around the island is pretty straightforward.

Most people arrive at Ngurah Rai Airport near Denpasar and’ll find plenty of taxis and rideshares waiting outside. But if you want to skip the headache, booking a private driver ahead is a smart move,especially if you plan to explore places like Ubud, Seminyak, or the rice terraces of Jatiluwih. Those drivers tend to know back roads and hidden spots that don’t show up on maps.

Scooters are everywhere, and yes, they’re the easiest way to beat traffic and reach tucked-away beaches or tiny warungs in Canggu. Just be cautious,roads can get crowded, and some spots have uneven surfaces. If you’re not confident on two wheels, don’t push it. Otherwise, hire a scooter with full insurance and check the brakes before you roll.

Public transport is limited here, so don’t expect buses like back home. But apps like Gojek and Grab make getting around affordable and simple; these local ride-hailing services even handle food delivery if you’re craving late-night nasi goreng.

Pro tip: during the rainy season (December to March), traffic can get tricky, so give yourself extra travel time and always double-check with your driver about the route. Believe me, a little local advice can save hours stuck in traffic jams near Kuta or Denpasar.
Part of the My Guide Network Since 2006 180+ destinations
Search by Map

Book Top Experiences and Tours in Bali:

If you're booking your trip to Bali last minute, we have you covered. Below are some of the top tours and experiences.

View All Experiences

Getting the most out of Bali transport

Here’s a little local secret: if you’re staying around Ubud or even Seminyak, hiring a private driver for a day usually costs about 400,000 to 500,000 IDR (roughly $25–35 USD), and you get to stop anywhere, take photos, or grab a bite without stress.

Also, don’t underestimate the power of Gojek. It’s not just for rides; you can order snacks or even get a massage delivered to your villa. Just download the app and practice a bit with English menu options before your trip,it’ll make life way easier once you’re here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about getting around Bali? Here’s what locals hear often.

Scooters are everywhere here, but if you’re not used to riding, Bali’s roads might feel wild. I’d only recommend it if you’ve got some experience. And always wear a helmet, never ride at night, and check your insurance coverage before you take off.

Booking a private driver is the easiest and most comfortable way. It’s about a 90-minute drive, and having a local driver means you can stop for kopi luwak or just enjoy the scenery without stressing about directions.

Ride-hailing apps are super cheap and reliable, especially for short trips. Taxis still operate but can be more expensive and less transparent with fares,always insist on the meter or book through an app.

Public transport is basically non-existent for tourists. There’s a local bus system, but it’s complicated and slow. Your best bet is private drivers, scooters, or ride shares.

Try to travel early in the morning or after 7 pm if you can. Narrow roads and lots of tourists cause jams, especially in high season. A scooter helps dodge some traffic, but patience is key.

A private driver might seem pricier upfront but it’s great value since you get to set your own schedule, make stops, and usually get a local willing to share insider tips. For day tours, it’s often cheaper than multiple taxis.

Explore Transport Categories

Shuttle Services (216 places) If you’re planning a trip around Bali, shuttle services can be your best friend for getting between popular spots like Ubud, Seminyak, and the airport without stressing over scooters or pricey taxis. Most shuttles run on popular routes and leave regularly, but don’t expect strict timetables like you might at home… Explore
Private Drivers (198 places) Having a private driver in Bali isn’t just about getting from A to B. It’s about skipping the stress of traffic jams in places like Ubud or Seminyak, and avoiding the confusion of local transport options that often don’t run on time. Most drivers here don’t just stick to the map. They know which small warung serves… Explore
Group Transfers (74 places) If you’re heading to Bali with a crew, arranging group transfers is one of the easiest ways to get around without juggling multiple cars or taxis. I live here, so trust me when I say, Bali’s traffic can be unpredictable, especially around Denpasar and Kuta, so booking a group transfer in advance saves headaches on… Explore
Airport Transfers (54 places) Landing at Ngurah Rai International Airport can often be a bit chaotic, especially during peak seasons like July or December. But booking an airport transfer in Bali beforehand takes away all that stress. You’ll avoid the scramble for taxis and the usual haggling that makes most arrivals a little tiresome. I recommend… Explore

Top Things To Do in Bali

See All →

Top Things To Do in Bali

Click to See All

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 2006 online since
  • 27.8M page views a month across the network
  • 14 languages

180+ destination guides, one network

Every guide covers a single destination on its own website, with events, restaurants, things to do and places to stay chosen from local recommendations.

My Guide Network Locations

Nearby Destinations

Also nearby: My Guide Koh SamuiMy Guide PerthMy Guide Pattaya

See all destinations

Add to your trip
Day {[{day.day}]} {[{day.dateFormat}]}
MorningAfternoonEvening

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.

Add to day {[{trip.popover.day}]}Add to trip Cancel
Added to your trip Added to day {[{trip.toast.day}]}, MorningAfternoonEvening Saved to your trip Already in your trip Transfer saved to your trip Save your trip to get fresh suggestions Staying in {[{trip.toast.label}]} Base cleared Trip deleted Link copied Could not save your trip Something went wrong, please try again