Getting from Bali Airport to Your Hotel and Around the City: A Practical Step-by-Step Guide
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Traveling to Bali? Discover Gezpoint's practical step-by-step guide to getting around easily, from the airport to your hotel and around the city. Tips for your Bali trip!
Hello, dear Gezpoint readers! The gates to a tropical paradise are opening—welcome to the Bali of your dreams! Snow-white sands, lush green rice fields, mystical temples, and that one-of-a-kind Bali atmosphere… It’s all waiting for you. But when you arrive in Bali, the first practical questions are usually: "How do I get from the airport to my hotel?" and "How can I get around the island easily?" Don’t worry! Gezpoint is here to help with this practical Bali transport guide. Let’s explore, step by step, all the details that will make your trip to Bali hassle-free.
Getting to and from Bali Airport (Ngurah Rai - DPS): Your First Steps
Bali’s only international airport, Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar Airport - DPS), is located in the south of the island, quite close to Kuta. You have several options for getting from here to your hotel:
1. Pre-Arranged Transfers (Gezpoint and Hotel Transfers)
If you’re traveling with Gezpoint’s Bali tours or have contacted your hotel, your airport transfer will usually have been arranged in advance. This is the most comfortable and stress-free option, especially for first-time visitors to Bali or those arriving late at night. Being greeted at the airport by someone holding a sign with your name on it is priceless after a long flight. These transfers usually have a fixed price, eliminating the need to haggle and taking you directly to your hotel.
2. Airport Taxi Stand and Official Taxis
When you exit the terminal, you’ll encounter many taxi drivers. There are official taxi stands inside the airport or near the exit. You can arrange a taxi here for a fixed fare based on your destination. Prices may be a little higher than standard taxi fares, but the service is reliable. You’ll need to negotiate with drivers outside. We recommend choosing reliable taxi companies such as Blue Bird Taxi. These taxis are usually blue and have a meter.
3. Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab and Gojek)
Apps such as Grab and Gojek in Bali are widely used and affordable for booking both motorbikes and cars. However, at Ngurah Rai Airport, there may be some restrictions on these apps picking up passengers right in front of the taxi lobby. You may need to walk a little farther out or meet your driver in the \"Drop-off\" area. If you have a local SIM card in your phone (which we highly recommend), these apps can be a lifesaver. Prices are fixed, so there’s no need to haggle.
Getting Around Bali: Ways to Explore the Island
Once you’ve checked in at your hotel, it’s time to discover Bali’s beautiful sights! Getting around Bali is flexible, with plenty of options. Here are the main ones:
1. Renting a Scooter/Motorbike: The Symbol of Freedom
Renting a motorbike in Bali is one of the island’s most popular ways to get around and gives you great freedom. It’s ideal for those who want to roam freely through lush fields and narrow roads. Daily rental rates are quite affordable (usually between 50.000 – 100.000 IDR), and fuel is cheap too. However:
An international driving permit is required! Otherwise, your insurance will be invalid, and you may have problems in traffic. Wearing a helmet is mandatory and vital for your safety. Traffic in Bali is quite heavy, especially in areas such as Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu, and the rules may be unfamiliar to us. Be careful! Watch out for potholes and sudden turns in the road.
2. Taxis (Blue Bird and Others)
Taxis in Bali are easy to find. We strongly recommend choosing Blue Bird Taxi, as its drivers use meters and are honest. Always agree on the fare and negotiate before traveling with other taxis. They can be a good option for short distances, but be mindful of traffic.
3. Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab and Gojek): There Whenever You Need Them
Grab and Gojek are also great options for getting around Bali. They offer both motorbike (GrabBike/GoRide) and car (GrabCar/GoCar) services. You can also use them to order food (GrabFood/GoFood) and even shop for groceries (GrabMart/GoMart). Since prices are set in advance through the apps, there’s no need to haggle. They’re especially popular in tourist centers such as Ubud, Seminyak, and Canggu.
4. Renting a Car with a Private Driver: Comfort and Flexibility
If you’re traveling in a group, with your family, or want to explore the island comfortably along a specific route, renting a car with a private driver is the best option. Drivers are usually local, know every corner of the island, and can guide you. Daily rental rates vary depending on the size of the vehicle and the duration, but are generally quite reasonable. Agencies such as Gezpoint offer reliable services in this area.
5. Walking and Renting a Bicycle
Because of Bali’s hot climate and the fact that sidewalks aren’t always suitable for walking, getting around on foot isn’t very practical for long distances. However, exploring shorter distances on foot can be enjoyable in places such as central Ubud, certain areas of Seminyak, or along the coast. Bicycle rentals are also available in some areas, but you’ll need to be careful because of traffic on the main roads.
Important Tips for Getting Around Bali
Get a Local SIM Card: We strongly recommend getting a local SIM card as soon as you arrive in Bali so you can use Grab/Gojek and follow maps. You can easily get one at the airport or from shops in the city. Don’t Be Afraid to Haggle: Negotiating with unofficial taxis or small vendors is part of the culture. Do it with a smile and politely. Be Prepared for Traffic Congestion: Traffic can be heavy, especially in popular areas of southern Bali (Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu). Plan your travel times accordingly. Currency: The Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is used. Always carry small bills with you; they’ll make things easier, especially when paying taxi drivers or shopping at small stores. Safety: Always be aware of your surroundings. Take extra care, especially when walking alone late at night or riding a motorbike.
Make Your Bali Dreams Come True with Gezpoint!
Getting around Bali doesn’t seem so daunting now, does it? As you can see, traveling around this tropical island can be much easier and more enjoyable than you might think. Whether you explore freely by scooter or enjoy the comfort of a car with a private driver, Bali will give you unforgettable memories.
Remember, Gezpoint is here to make every moment of your stay in Bali perfect. While you discover the island’s most beautiful spots on our special Bali tours, leave all the details, such as transport and accommodation, to our expert team. All you have to do is enjoy this unique island!
Visit Gezpoint’s Bali Tours page now and take the first step toward your dream Bali vacation! Paradise is waiting for you!