How to reach Bali
Destination travel guide

How To Reach Bali

Best Routes, Transport Options, Travel Tips & Distance Guide

DestinationIndonesia
Best timeApril to October
Nearest airportNgurah Rai International Airport (DPS)
Nearest stationNo passenger railway on Bali

How To Reach Bali

Most visitors reach Bali through Ngurah Rai International Airport near Denpasar. The island has no passenger railway, so every airport arrival continues by road. Journey times vary dramatically with traffic: Kuta and Jimbaran are close, while Ubud, Canggu and northern Bali require longer private transfers.

Location and route overview: Bali is an Indonesian island east of Java. Denpasar is the provincial capital, while the principal visitor areas extend from Uluwatu and Nusa Dua to Ubud and the north coast.

Reach Bali By Air

Nearest airportNgurah Rai International Airport (DPS)
Distance13 km from central Denpasar
Travel time25–45 minutes; 1–2 hours to Ubud

Airport transfers: Airport taxi, ride-hailing pickup zone, private driver or hotel shuttle

Typical taxi cost: IDR 150,000–450,000

Traffic around Kuta and Canggu can significantly extend transfer times.

Reach Bali By Train

Railway stationNo passenger railway on Bali
DistanceNot applicable
Onward timeUse road transfers
Ferry connection from JavaPrivate driverIntercity shuttle

Transfer options: Taxi, private car, shuttle bus or scooter rental

Rail travellers from Java continue to Ketapang, take the ferry to Gilimanuk and travel onward by road.

Reach Bali By Road

From Denpasar

Distance0–15 kmDriving time20–45 minutes

Bus: Local buses and taxis

City roads
View route

From Ubud

Distance37 kmDriving time1–1.5 hours

Bus: Shuttles and private drivers

Denpasar–Batubulan–Ubud
View route

From Canggu

Distance20 kmDriving time45–90 minutes

Bus: Taxi and shuttle services

Airport–Sunset Road–Canggu
View route

From Gilimanuk Port

Distance130 kmDriving time3.5–5 hours

Bus: Intercity buses available

West Bali coastal road
View route

Distance from Major Cities to Bali

From CityDistanceTravel Time
Kuta5 km15–25 minutes
Seminyak10 km25–45 minutes
Canggu20 km45–90 minutes
Ubud37 km1–1.5 hours
Nusa Dua14 km25–40 minutes
Lovina95 km3–4 hours

Best Time to Visit Bali

The recommended time to visit Bali is April to October. Transport schedules, road conditions and journey times can vary by season, so confirm local conditions before departure.

Bali Route Map

Best Transport Option

Our recommendation: Fly to Ngurah Rai International Airport and reserve a private transfer matched to your resort area, especially for late-night arrivals.
ModeCostTimeComfortRecommended For
AirIDR 150,000–450,000 + airfare25–45 minutes; 1–2 hours to UbudHighBest for long distance
RailBudget to mid-rangeUse road transfersMedium to highBest for value and scenery
RoadVaries by bus or cab20–45 minutesFlexibleBest for nearby cities

Bali Travel Tips

Share your flight number with the driver because immigration queues vary.
Allow generous time for airport returns from Canggu and Ubud.
Use licensed drivers and agree on price before non-metered trips.
Carry light rain protection during the November–March wet season.
International visitors should check visa-on-arrival rules before travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reach Bali from Denpasar?

The usual road route is City roads. It covers about 0–15 km and normally takes 20–45 minutes. Local buses and taxis.

Which is the nearest airport to Bali?

Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is the recommended airport. It is 13 km from central Denpasar away and the onward journey usually takes 25–45 minutes; 1–2 hours to Ubud.

Can I reach Bali by train?

Use No passenger railway on Bali. The remaining distance is Not applicable and can be completed by Taxi, private car, shuttle bus or scooter rental.

What is the best transport option for Bali?

Fly to Ngurah Rai International Airport and reserve a private transfer matched to your resort area, especially for late-night arrivals.

Are night buses available for Bali?

Bus frequency depends on the origin and season. For the main route from Denpasar, Local buses and taxis. Reserve overnight services early during holidays.

How long is the airport transfer to Bali?

The transfer from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) generally takes 25–45 minutes; 1–2 hours to Ubud, subject to traffic and weather.

How much does a taxi to Bali cost?

A typical airport transfer costs IDR 150,000–450,000. Confirm the fare, vehicle type and inclusions before departure.

When is the best time to travel to Bali?

The preferred travel period is April to October. Transport should be booked earlier during peak weeks.

Should I pre-book transfers for Bali?

Yes. A pre-booked transfer is especially useful for late arrivals, families, groups and peak-season travel.

What should I check before travelling to Bali?

Allow generous time for airport returns from Canggu and Ubud. Also keep tickets, identification and accommodation details accessible.

Travel with confidence

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