How to get around Bali
Most travellers get around Bali three ways: a rented scooter for short local hops, a private driver for day trips and longer transfers, and ride-hailing apps (Grab and Gojek) for quick point-to-point rides. There's no train and no metro, traffic is heavy all day, and distances that look short on a map can take an hour — so plan by time, not kilometres.
Scooter: freedom for short hops
A rented scooter is how most long-stay travellers move around Canggu, Uluwatu and Ubud. It's cheap and frees you from waiting on rides, typically a modest daily rate.
Ride only if you're confident: Bali traffic is chaotic, roads can be rough, and accidents are common. You legally need an International Driving Permit with a motorcycle category — police do check, and your travel insurance won't pay out without it. Always wear a helmet.
Private driver: best for day trips and transfers
For airport transfers, temple-and-waterfall day trips, or moving between bases, a private driver is the easy, comfortable option — usually booked by the day or the trip.
Drivers double as guides and wait for you between stops. It's the stress-free way to cover longer distances or travel as a group or family.
Ride-hailing: Grab and Gojek
The Grab and Gojek apps handle quick point-to-point rides (car or motorbike) at metered app prices — the simplest way to get a fair fare without haggling.
In some tourist areas local transport cooperatives restrict app pickups, so you may be asked to walk to a nearby meeting point. Metered Bluebird taxis are a reliable fallback.
Plan by time, not distance
Traffic is constant, especially in Canggu, Seminyak and around Ubud. A 10 km trip can take an hour at the wrong time of day.
This is why choosing one or two bases matters more than any transport hack — the less you move between areas, the more of Bali you actually see.
Good to know
Do I need a licence to rent a scooter in Bali?
Yes — an International Driving Permit with a motorcycle category, plus your home licence. Police do check, and travel insurance won't cover an accident without it.
Is Grab available in Bali?
Yes, Grab and Gojek both work for cars and motorbikes. In some tourist zones app pickups are restricted, so you may need to walk to a nearby meeting point.
How much is a private driver in Bali?
Drivers are usually hired by the day or per trip and are a good-value option for day trips, transfers and groups. Agree the route and price before you set off.
Is it easy to get around Bali without a scooter?
Yes — ride-hailing apps and private drivers cover most needs. Just plan by travel time, because traffic makes even short distances slow.