Getting around Bali is relatively easy, but transport can feel chaotic if you’re expecting the same convenience as Singapore.
Unlike Singapore’s efficient MRT system, Bali relies heavily on road transport and traffic congestion is common in hotspots like Canggu, Seminyak, Kuta, and Ubud.
From airport transfers and scooters to private drivers and local minibuses, each option fits a different type of trip.
Here’s what I learnt after trying it all, so you can move around Bali without stress.
Renting a car in Bali gives you flexibility, but it’s usually not the easiest option for first-time visitors.
Small car rentals typically start from IDR 250,000–400,000 per day (around SGD$ 22–35), excluding fuel.
Driving in Bali can be challenging — expect narrow roads, heavy traffic, limited parking, and unpredictable road conditions, especially in busy areas like Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud.
Petrol is affordable, tolls are minimal, and GPS usually works well with mobile data. However, don’t rely entirely on Google Maps for road conditions or small laneways.
If you're confident behind the wheel and comfortable with Southeast Asian driving habits, it’s a viable option. If not, stick with a hired driver or ride-hailing.
You’ll typically need:
Since Indonesia drives on the left like Singapore, that part feels familiar but road behaviour can be far less predictable.
Option | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
Car with driver | Stress-free, local expertise, no parking worries | More expensive than scooters | Families, groups, first-time visitors |
Self-drive | Flexible timing, privacy | Traffic stress, parking issues, navigation challenges | Experienced overseas drivers |
If you're the kind of traveller who likes to do things the local way, you might be tempted to try bus. These are Bali’s version of mini-vans that operate like informal buses, usually used by locals to get around town or between villages.
They’re cheap and fares can be as low as IDR 10,000 to 20,000 (about SGD$ 0.90 to 1.80). But you’ll need some patience and a sense of adventure.
There are also a few proper bus services, like Trans Sarbagita, which runs air-conditioned buses across major areas like Denpasar and Nusa Dua. Tickets cost about IDR 3,500 (less than SGD$ 0.30), but coverage is still limited and not very tourist-friendly.
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Grab operates in Bali, so Singapore travellers may already be familiar with it. However, Gojek tends to have wider local usage and often more drivers available.
Transport Option | Best For | Pros | Things to Know |
|---|---|---|---|
Grab | Short trips, airport transfers, travellers familiar with the app | Easy to use for Singapore travellers, upfront pricing, cashless payments available | Pickup restrictions may apply in areas like Ubud and some beach clubs |
Gojek | Budget travellers, quick rides around town | Often cheaper than Grab, larger local driver network, offers car and motorbike rides | More commonly used in Indonesia, some locations restrict pickups |
Blue Bird Group taxis | Travellers who prefer traditional taxis | Metered fares, reliable reputation, easy to flag down in tourist areas | Watch out for imitation taxis — use official Blue Bird vehicles or the MyBluebird app |
Local taxis/private taxis | Areas with limited app availability | Easy to find in busy tourist spots | Always confirm the fare before getting in, as some may not use meters |
Hiring a private driver is one of the easiest and most recommended ways to explore Bali.
Rates vary depending on duration and distance, but many travellers can expect:
The best part? The flexibility. You can go from Ubud’s rice terraces to a beach club in Seminyak, stop for lunch, and still squeeze in a sunset temple… all without worrying about transport in between.
I recommend confirming the price, whether it includes fuel, and how long the “day” lasts. Most drivers are easygoing, but it helps to be clear upfront.
For trips packed with multiple stops, this is still the most hassle-free way to get around.
If you’re comfortable on two wheels, renting a scooter in Bali gives you the kind of freedom taxis just can’t.
Scooters are one of the fastest ways to get around Bali, but they’re best suited for confident riders who are comfortable with local traffic conditions.
Use this only if you’re confident balancing on the back of a bike. Otherwise, private cars or drivers are the safer bet.
Category | Details |
|---|---|
Typical rental cost | Around IDR 70,000–150,000 (SGD$ 5- 11)per day, with cheaper weekly or monthly rates available |
Best for | Short distances, avoiding traffic, travelling around areas like Canggu, Ubud, and Seminyak |
Licence requirements | You’ll need a valid driving licence and an International Driving Permit (IDP) with motorcycle coverage to ride legally |
Pros | Affordable, convenient, easier to navigate narrow roads, faster during heavy traffic |
Cons | Higher accident risk, unpredictable traffic, limited parking in busy areas, not ideal for inexperienced riders |
Safety tips | Always wear a helmet, inspect the bike before renting, avoid riding during heavy rain, and ensure your travel insurance covers motorbike accidents |
When to avoid | Long-distance trips, night riding, or if you’re unfamiliar with Bali’s road conditions |
Traffic can be extremely heavy between:
Especially in Seminyak and Canggu.
While apps accept cards, many drivers still prefer cash payments.
A 20-minute journey on Google Maps may easily become 45 minutes during peak hours.
Some roads have similar names, so saving your hotel location helps avoid confusion.
Getting around Bali isn’t always straightforward, but once you understand the options, it becomes part of the experience.
If you’re eyeing the best time to visit Bali, typically from April to October when the skies are clear and the island is at its liveliest.
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