Getting Around Bali — Transport Guide 2026
Bali has no public bus network tourists can rely on, so getting around means choosing between scooter hire, ride-hailing apps (Grab/Gojek), private drivers or shuttle buses — each with their own trade-offs for cost, convenience and safety.
Transport options compared
🛵 Scooter hire
IDR 60,000–100,000/day. Freedom to explore at your pace. International driving permit (motorcycle endorsement) required. Helmets mandatory. Avoid at night and in traffic-heavy corridors.
Best for: Confident riders who want flexibility.
📱 Grab & Gojek
App-based ride-hailing. Car or ojek (motorbike taxi). Fixed upfront price — no haggling. Download the apps before arrival. Note: some tourist areas (Kuta, Legian) have unofficial bans due to local taxi pressure; pick-up/drop-off may require walking to side streets.
Best for: Budget-conscious travellers for short-haul trips.
🚗 Private driver
IDR 500,000–800,000 for a full day (8 hrs/80 km). The most comfortable and efficient way to cover multiple sites. Hotels can arrange or book via GetYourGuide/Klook. Negotiate in advance and agree on a route.
Best for: Day trips, families, seniors, island hoppers.
🚌 Tourist shuttles
Perama, Kura Kura Bus and similar services connect major tourist areas (Kuta → Ubud → Amed → Lovina). Cheap (IDR 50,000–150,000) but fixed schedules. Book 24 hrs ahead.
Best for: Budget travellers moving between tourist areas.
⛵ Fast boats
From Sanur, Padang Bai or Serangan to Nusa Lembongan (30 min), Nusa Penida (45 min) and Gili Islands (1.5–2 hrs). Fares IDR 100,000–600,000. Book a reputable operator (Scoot, Semaya One, Blue Water Express) and check the boat has life jackets.
Best for: Island hopping to the Nusas and Gilis.
✈️ Airport transfer
Pre-booked private car from Ngurah Rai (DPS). Fixed prices: Kuta $10, Seminyak $15, Canggu $18, Uluwatu $18, Ubud $22. Driver meets you in arrivals with a name board.
Typical fares
| Route | Grab/Gojek (car) | Private driver (day) |
|---|---|---|
| Airport → Seminyak | IDR 80,000–120,000 | — |
| Airport → Ubud | IDR 200,000–280,000 | IDR 500,000–700,000 |
| Seminyak → Canggu | IDR 40,000–70,000 | — |
| Ubud → Amed day trip | IDR 300,000–400,000 | IDR 600,000–800,000 |