How to Get Around in Bali: A Complete Transportation Guide for First-Time Travelers
Bali is termed as the island of the Gods. It is rapidly growing as the favorite tourist hub in Southeast Asia. Tourists from all over the world have been pouring into Bali in recent years. The beautiful beaches, vast green paddy fields and iconic rice terraces, age-old temples, and spiritual life of the people are what attract the tourists most. It is the place of mental healing and well-being. It is the perfect destination for all kinds of people, from solo travelers to couples, from families to groups; Bali has something unique to offer for everyone. But, before coming to Bali, one must know the modes of transport options available here for easy movement from one place to another. If you are one who is looking for a complete real-time guide how to get around in Bali, then you are at the right place.
Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a couple on honeymoon, or a family on vacation, getting around Bali can feel confusing at first. The island has no metro, limited public buses, and traffic that can surprise even seasoned travelers. But don’t worry—this guide breaks down every transportation option in Bali, from public buses to private car rentals, app-based rides, scooters, and more. I have stayed in Bali for more than 2 years in recent times and have spent time in almost every part of Bali. So in this content I will share the exact picture of transportation options here in Bali one by one so that you get a complete idea on how to get around in Bali.
But before that, let’s have a quick look at the chapters of what I am going to cover for your easy navigation in this blog.
How to Get Around in Bali
Though there is no railway network in Bali, the whole island can be explored through various options, all through the roads. There are many kinds of transportation networks available right now to get around in Bali. The modes are limited to buses, cars, and scooters, but you can use them in different ways, mostly the following seven:
1. Public Buses in Bali (Trans Sarbagita)
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option to travel, then Trans Sarbagita or the public bus service is there for your help. It is Bali’s official bus service. While it’s not as smooth and comprehensive as the transport systems you may find in cities like Bangkok or Singapore, it’s a good option for travelers who prefer local experiences on a low budget.
How It Works:
•All the bus service, the large Sarbagita buses, the Feeder buses and the Non-Feeder Minibuses operates on main routes connecting Denpasar, Kuta, Nusa Dua, Sanur and Ubud.
•All the buses are air-conditioned.
•The bus stops at designated bus stops only (you can’t stop it anywhere)
Routes:
Currently the Trans Sarbagita bus route operates in the following routes
2. Batubulan – Sentral Parkir Kuta – Nusa Dua
3. Sanur – Renon – Petitenget
4. Batubulan – Jl. Gatot Subroto – Bandara
6. Mengwi – Kota – Benoa Harbour
8. Sentral Parkir Kuta – Tanah Lot
9. Batubulan – Kota – Sentral Parkir Kuta
10. Sanur – Bandara – Nusa Dua
11. Mahendradata – Sanur – Lebih Beach
13. Gianyar – Mengwi – Tabanan
14. Ubung – Buluh Indah – Sentral Parkir Kuta
15. Mengwi – Dalung – Batubulan
16. Tegal – Mambal
17. Mengwi – Darmasaba – Batubulan
Pros:
•Very cheap (basic price starts IDR 2,000)
•Eco-friendly choice and best for solo traveler or backpackers
Cons:
•Limited to main cities only and the frequency is low
•Not ideal for remote areas or beaches like Uluwatu or northern Bali
• The routes may be confusing for first-timers due to lack of clear schedules
2. Private Car with Driver – The Hassle-Free Option
Hiring a private car with a local driver is one of the most convenient and comfortable ways to get around in Bali, especially if you’re planning a day trip to places like Ubud, Bedugul, Nusa Penida ferry terminals, or the north coast. You can find a tourist booth almost everywhere or you may book one from your hotel or homestay. All the hotels have tour plans ready for their guests which include a car with a driver who will be your guide also. It may be little costly option, but the best option for day tours where the driver has all the knowledge of the land and the best timing for each place. I have seen that the drivers are expert in taking Instagram-friendly photos and reels.
What You Get:
•A personal English-speaking driver who will act as your travel guide
•If you book a day trip, you get a full-day, no-tension service (typically 8-10 hours)
•Air-conditioned car and door-to-door pickup and drop-off service
Rates:
•Around IDR 500,000 to 700,000/day ($30 to $45), depending on distance and duration. You must have the skill for negotiation for getting a good price.
How to Book:
•Through your hotel (this will be the easiest option)
•Local travel agencies or travel booking booths
•Tour booking apps like Klook, GetYourGuide, or GoCar Protect
Pros:
•This is the best option for groups or families. Smooth travel and hassle-free.
•Driver often doubles as a guide and photographer
Cons:
•This is more expensive than other transportation options. For a single ride you must have the skill to bargain to get a good price.
• For a day trip, you need to plan your itinerary in advance for proper timing.
3. App-Based Car Booking (Gojek & Grab)
For travelers who want modern convenience at their fingertips, Bali has two major ride-hailing apps: Gojek and Grab. Think of them as the Southeast Asian versions of Uber. It is the best and cheapest option for a single ride. You must install the app previously and create your profile before booking. It is available almost everywhere.
How It Works:
•Download Gojek or Grab on your phone (create your profile and get it ready).
•Book a GoCar or GrabCar ( same as Uber)
•Pay via app or cash
Areas Covered:
•South Bali: Kuta, Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, Denpasar
•Some limited service is available in northern Bali
Pros:
•Transparent pricing system
•Safe and reliable option for first timers
•The app is available in multiple languages
•No need to bargain. The price shown is the exact price needed.
Cons:
•App ride pickups may be restricted in some places like Sanur Harbour, Uluwatu beaches, or tourist zones with strong local taxi unions
•Prices can surge during peak hours
Pro Tip: If the app doesn’t show a ride or no cars available, try walking a few hundred meters away from crowded zones. You will definitely find one. Avoid booking one in front of local taxi gangs.
4. Renting a Scooter or Motorbike—The Most Popular Option
Indonesia has the second-highest fleet of motorcycles in the world after India. If you’re travelling alone or with your partner and have knowledge of riding a motorcycle in your country, renting a scooter is hands-down the most flexible and thrilling way to explore Bali. This option is the most chosen option for getting around in Bali. The booking process is smooth and the fuel price is so cheap. Sometimes it is the fastest option due to the frequent traffic jams in major places like Ubud, Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu. And if you are planning to visit the northern Bali, this option is best for you for the unavailability of public transportation there.
From weaving through traffic in Seminyak to cruising along scenic jungle roads near Ubud, motorbikes are the king in Bali.
How to Rent a Scooter in Bali:
Renting a scooter in Bali is smoother than buying a cigarette. There is a scooter rental shop almost everywhere in Bali. In popular tourist places like Seminyak, Ubud, Kuta, Canggu, you will find one in almost every lane. Most hotels in Ubud has their own scooter rental service or has tie-up with some rental agency. That means you can book one directly from your hotel and explore the city. When booking from the local shop, you must bargain to get a good price deal. Initially they start with IDR 150,000 or 100,000 per day. If you bargain a little the price may drop to IDR 75,000-80,000. It all depends on your capacity of negotiation. No security deposit is needed.
Otherwise there are some popular Scooter Rental Apps available where you can book online before coming to Bali. The agency will deliver the scooter at your scheduled location at your time. But the price shown is what you will have to pay, without a bargain. Some popular agencies are Klook, Bikago, Pakegoo etc. They will ask you for IDP before renting the scooter. So always carry a valid IDP with you along with you local Driving License.
Price:
• Ranges from IDR 70,000 to 100,000/day ($4 to $7)
•Weekly and monthly rates are super cheap
Requirements:
•International driving permit (IDP) along with Driving License of your own country
•Helmets (They will provide two with each scooter. Always wear them!)
•Some experience riding scooters in crowded city.
Pros:
•It gives the ultimate freedom to go where you want, when you want
•Super cheap option for getting around in Bali
•Easy to park almost everywhere. You will find a separate scooter parking zone in all tourist spots.
Cons:
•It is risky for beginners or in heavy traffic. If you are inexperienced to ride in heavy chaotic traffic, then its not a good option for you.
•It is not safe during rainy season or on mountain roads, specially for first timers
•Police may stop tourists—make sure you have a valid license and IDP
5. App-Based Bike Taxi (GoRide & GrabBike)
If you are too nervous to ride the scooter yourself but love the idea of zipping through Bali traffic, then you can book app-based bike taxi. Try GoRide or GrabBike the leading app-based motorcycle taxis widely available in Bali. They are super convenient and cheap also. So this mode of transport will solve your problem of how to get around in Bali. The only problem is that it is not easily available in areas like Uluwatu and north Bali.
How It Works:
•Install Gojek or Grab app previously. The GoRide and GrabBike is available in the app respectively.
•Enter your destination and pick up point. The fare will be shown. Book the ride.
•Helmet will be provided by the driver
Price:
•The rides are much cheaper than cabs- short rides can be as low as IDR 10,000 ($0.70)
Pros:
•Scooters can beat the traffic jam
•The rides are super cheap
•Moving is fun and fast-makes you able to feel the real vibe of surrounding
Cons:
•It is not suitable if you are carrying luggage or shopping bags
•It is not suitable in rainy weather
· Not much available in northern Bali
Best for: Solo travelers, quick rides, or budget-conscious tourists.
6. Metered and Local Taxis
If you are thinking of how to move around in Bali by metered taxi, then don’t worry. There is also an option. You’ll see plenty of blue-colored taxis across Bali, particularly those operated by Blue Bird Taxi, which is the most reliable brand in here. This is sometimes cheaper than app cab.
How to Identify Blue Bird:
•This taxi is blue coloured cars with “Blue Bird Group” logo
•You can use the MyBlueBird app or call a cab via hotel to book one
Avoid Scams:
•Some local taxis may try to impersonate Blue Bird
•Always confirm it’s a real one by checking the logo and driver’s ID
Pros:
•Expect a cheap fare as shown in the meter. Best for a single ride.
•Safer than unlicensed local drivers
Cons:
•It may be hard to find in remote areas like north Bali
•Sometimes some drivers refuse to use meters as it seems low to them
7. Renting a Car for Self-Drive – Freedom with Responsibility
If you wish to move around in bali in your own way and also in a safe way, or you are with your family and want to move on your own, then you can rent a car and drive yourself. This option is also an attractive one as it gives you freedom of movement along with safety. But it’s not recommended for first-timers to the island as the traffic is not suitable for the newcomers.
Price:
•IDR 200,000 to 350,000/day ($12 to $25), depending on the model
Requirements:
•You must have International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your local Driving License
•You must be comfortable to drive on narrow roads and in chaotic traffic
Pros:
•You will have Full control over your trip
•It is Suitable for long-distance or multi-day island exploration
Cons:
•Traffic can be unpredictable in Bali, specially in Ubud, Kuta, Densapar and Seminyak
•Parking can be difficult in busy areas
•Risk of getting pulled over without proper documents
Best for: Experienced drivers traveling long-term or exploring areas like Lovina, Amed, or Sidemen.
Last Option: Walking and Cycling in Bali
If you want to feel the real vibe of the local and want to mix with the crowd, you can walk. Walking is possible in certain tourist zones like Kuta, Ubud central, Seminyak Beach, or Sanur Boardwalk when the distance is short, but sidewalks are often narrow or broken. Cycling can be enjoyable in Ubud, Sidemen, or Canggu’s back roads—but definitely avoid busy roads on a bike.
Best for: Leisure strolls or early morning cycling in quiet areas.
Final Tips for Getting Around in Bali
•Plan ahead: Some day tours like Nusa Penida, Lempuyang Temple, or Mount Batur require early departures. Plan your itinerary early and book transport in advance.
•Carry cash: Not all transport providers accept cards or digital wallets. Always carry cash for smooth service.
•Be polite and patient: Chaotic Traffic is a part of Bali life. Don’t be upset about this. Use it as a chance to soak in your surroundings.
•Travel insurance and IDP: If you’re riding a scooter or renting a car, make sure your insurance covers it. You must have an International Driving Permit before renting a scooter or a car.
What’s the Best Way for You?
Traveler Type– Best Transport Option
· Solo on a Budget– GoRide or GrabBike
· Couple on Vacation– Private car with driver or scooter rental
· Family with Kids– Private car with driver
· Long-term Travelers– Scooter or car rental (with IDP)
· Luxury Travelers– Private drivers or hotel shuttle service
Conclusion
Getting around in Bali can feel overwhelming at first, but once you understand your options, it becomes part of the adventure. Whether you’re riding a scooter through jungle roads, booking a Grab to the beach, or relaxing in the back seat of a private car, Bali’s transport choices suit every style and budget.
So don’t stress. Choose what fits your trip, be open to the island’s unique pace, and enjoy the ride. Because in Bali, sometimes the journey itself is the destination.
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