When planning your trip to Bali, one of the most common questions travelers ask is: “How do I get around the island?” While Bali is world-famous for its beaches, temples, and rice terraces, its public transport system is limited compared to other destinations in Asia. Knowing your options for getting around—whether by bus, shuttle, or alternative transport—will help you travel more smoothly and enjoy the island without stress. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about public transport in Bali, from affordable buses to convenient ride-hailing apps, so you can pick the best way to move around depending on your budget and travel style.
Public Buses in Bali
Public buses are not the most popular choice for tourists, but they do exist.
- Perama Shuttle Buses: A well-known service connecting tourist destinations like Kuta, Ubud, Sanur, Lovina, and Padang Bai. They’re reliable, safe, and affordable.
- Trans Sarbagita Bus: A government-run service that connects Denpasar, Kuta, Jimbaran, and Nusa Dua. It’s very cheap but routes and schedules are limited.
- Pros: Affordable, safe, eco-friendly.
- Cons: Limited routes, infrequent schedules, not ideal for exploring remote attractions.
Shuttle Services in Bali
Shuttle services are a popular and convenient middle ground between buses and private transport.
- Kura-Kura Bus: Connects major tourist hubs including Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Sanur, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, and Ubud. Air-conditioned, modern, and tourist-friendly.
- Hotel Shuttles: Many resorts and hotels offer free or paid shuttle services to airports, beaches, and shopping centers.
- Tourist Shuttles: Private operators often run vans between popular areas, especially to and from Ubud and Gili Islands ferry ports.
- Pros: Comfortable, affordable, easier than public buses.
- Cons: Fixed schedules, less flexible than taxis or ride-hailing.
Alternatives to Public Transport in Bali
1. Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab & Gojek)
- Widely used for short-distance trips.
- Affordable and easy to book via smartphone.
- Available in most tourist areas but sometimes restricted in local taxi zones.
- Best For: Quick, budget-friendly rides.
2. Taxis
- Blue Bird Taxis are the most trusted (look for the blue cars with meters).
- Avoid unofficial taxis that don’t use meters and try to overcharge.
- Best For: Airport transfers, city rides.
3. Scooter Rentals
- The most popular way to get around Bali.
- Affordable (around IDR 70,000–100,000/day).
- Requires an international driving permit and confidence in navigating Bali’s traffic.
- Best For: Adventurous travelers, exploring beaches and villages.
4. Car Rentals with Driver
- Commonly used by tourists for day trips.
- Costs around IDR 600,000–800,000 per day including driver and fuel.
- Best For: Families, groups, and hassle-free sightseeing.
5. Bicycles & Walking
- Great for exploring Ubud and small villages.
- Not practical for long distances due to Bali’s heat and traffic.
Cost Comparison of Transport Options in Bali
| Transport Option | Average Cost (IDR) | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Bus (Trans Sarbagita) | 3,500 – 7,500 per ride | Budget travelers, locals | Very cheap, safe | Limited routes, infrequent schedules |
| Perama Shuttle Bus | 75,000 – 150,000 per trip | Long-distance travel between towns | Reliable, tourist-friendly | Fixed schedule, must pre-book |
| Kura-Kura Shuttle Bus | 20,000 – 80,000 per trip | Tourists visiting main areas | Comfortable, AC, tourist-oriented | Only operates on main tourist routes |
| Ride-Hailing (Grab/Gojek) | 20,000 – 150,000 depending on distance | Short-distance, city rides | Affordable, easy to book via app | Sometimes restricted in taxi zones |
| Blue Bird Taxi | 50,000 – 300,000 depending on distance | Airport transfers, city trips | Metered, trusted brand | More expensive than Grab |
| Scooter Rental | 70,000 – 100,000 per day | Solo/adventurous travelers | Cheap, flexible, explore hidden spots | Risky traffic, requires license/experience |
| Car Rental (Self-drive) | 250,000 – 350,000 per day (excluding fuel) | Experienced drivers | Freedom, long-distance trips | Traffic stress, parking issues |
| Car Rental with Driver | 600,000 – 800,000 per day (incl. fuel) | Families, groups, day trips | Hassle-free, local knowledge, safe | More costly than self-drive |
Tips for Using Public Transport in Bali
- Plan ahead: Bus routes and schedules are limited, so check times before leaving.
- Be flexible: Sometimes public transport may not arrive on time.
- Combine transport methods: Use shuttles for long distances and ride-hailing for local trips.
- Beware of scams: Stick to trusted services like Blue Bird Taxi or official apps.
- Travel early: Roads get busy, so leave early if you have a ferry or flight.
FAQs About Public Transport in Bali
Is there a proper public transport system in Bali?
Not really. Bali doesn’t have a metro or train system, and buses are limited.
What is the cheapest way to travel around Bali?
Public buses and shuttle services are the cheapest, followed by Grab or Gojek.
Can tourists use Grab or Gojek everywhere in Bali?
Mostly yes, but some areas (like Ubud or near airports) may have restrictions due to local taxi unions.
Is it safe to use public buses in Bali?
Yes, but they are not always convenient for tourists.
Are there night buses in Bali?
No, buses and shuttles usually operate only during the day.
How much does the Kura-Kura bus cost?
Prices start from IDR 20,000 depending on distance.
What’s the best way to get from Bali Airport to Ubud?
Taxis, Grab, or private drivers are the most convenient options.
Do hotels in Bali provide shuttle services?
Many hotels, especially in tourist areas, offer free or paid shuttles.
Can I rent a scooter without a license?
Technically yes, but it’s not legal. An international driving permit is required.
Is driving in Bali difficult for foreigners?
Yes, traffic can be chaotic, so driving is best left to experienced drivers.
Are shuttle buses reliable in Bali?
Yes, especially tourist-focused services like Kura-Kura and Perama.
What’s the most convenient way to explore Bali in a group?
Renting a car with a driver is the easiest and most comfortable option.
Final Thoughts
While public transport in Bali is limited, tourists have plenty of alternatives to move around the island. From affordable shuttle buses to convenient Grab rides, scooter rentals, and private cars, there’s a transport option to suit every traveler’s style and budget. For the smoothest experience, many visitors combine shuttles for long-distance travel and ride-hailing or scooters for shorter trips.