Transport in Bali: How to Get Around Easily and Safely

Getting around Bali is an important part of the travel experience. The island has everything from busy urban areas to quiet mountain roads, and your choice of transport can make a big difference to comfort, safety and how much you actually get to see. Here’s a complete guide to the best transport options in Bali.

Private driver – the safest and most comfortable choice

For many people, a private car with a driver is the best way to get around Bali. You get a fixed price with no haggling, a driver who knows the area and a safe, stress-free alternative to scooters and taxis. It’s especially ideal for families, couples and first-time visitors – and unbeatable for day trips to Ubud, Uluwatu or other sights spread across the island. With us it costs $99 per car for a full day.

Scooter – flexible, but not for everyone

Scooters are very common in Bali and suit experienced travellers covering short distances in busy areas like Canggu and Seminyak. They’re cheap and flexible – but you need an international driving permit with a motorcycle category, and the traffic can be chaotic. A helmet is mandatory and absolutely essential. If you want to explore quiet areas, a scooter can work well; for longer day trips or if you’re travelling with children, we recommend a private driver.

Airport to hotel transfer

For a good start to your holiday, we recommend a pre-booked transfer from the airport. After a long flight you don’t have to find your bearings, haggle with taxi drivers or wait in line – the driver waits for you with a name sign, and the price is agreed in advance. It’s a small investment that makes a big difference on arrival day.

Boats between the islands

If you’re heading to Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan or the Gili Islands, a fast boat is the most common choice. Choose a reliable operator, book in advance in high season and remember to plan transport to and from the harbour. Departures from Sanur are the most used for Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan.

Taxis and apps – Grab and Gojek

In urban areas, Grab and Gojek work well. The apps are easy to use, prices are reasonable and there’s no negotiating. The downside is that the apps aren’t allowed everywhere in Bali – especially in tourist-heavy zones, local drivers may block them – and they’re hard to find outside the larger towns.

What do we recommend?

For most travellers, combining a pre-booked private driver for day trips and excursions with a transfer to and from the airport gives the best balance of comfort, safety and experience. A scooter can supplement this for short trips in quiet areas – but only if you’re experienced and have a valid licence.

Wondering how long it takes to get between areas? Our itinerary planner shows the drive times between the stops on your route, and what the trip costs with your driver and transport included.

At ReadySetIsland we help you with a private driver, day trips, multi-day tours, boat tickets and tailor-made transport – all arranged in advance.
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A private driver is included in all our package trips and day trips – no negotiating, so you can focus on the experiences.
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