If you’re currently in Java and planning a trip to Bali, there are several ways to make the journey. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the main ways to get from Java to Bali—by plane, train, bus, or a mix of them all. You’ll also find tips on the best routes, travel times, and what to expect along the way, so you can choose the option that fits your style and schedule best.
Transportation Options
If you’re already near Banyuwangi, reaching Bali is straightforward and budget-friendly. The town sits right at the eastern tip of Java, and the most common route is via the Ketapang Port ferry to Gilimanuk, Bali. Here’s a simplified breakdown of how to get there and what to expect.
Train or Bus to Banyuwangi
The train is one of the most comfortable and reliable ways to get to Banyuwangi. Trains like Blambangan Express, Sri Tanjung, Logawa, and Probowangi run daily and arrive at Ketapang Station (KTG)—just minutes from the ferry terminal.
- Jakarta (Pasar Senen) – Banyuwangi: ±16h 30m
- Yogyakarta (Lempuyangan/Tugu) – Banyuwangi: ±11–13h
- Surabaya (Gubeng/Pasar Turi) – Banyuwangi: ±6h 30m
Backindo Tip: During peak seasons, train tickets can sell out fast. Book your seats at least 30 days in advance via Traveloka or tiket.com.
If you’re traveling from cities not covered by train routes, long-distance buses are a good alternative. Some routes even include your ferry fare in the ticket. Comfort levels vary, but executive and sleeper buses offer better seats, onboard meals, and sometimes Wi-Fi.
Estimated travel times by bus:
- Jakarta (Pulo Gebang) – Bali (Mengwi/Ubung) : ± 22 hours (not recommended)
- Yogyakarta (Giwangan) – Bali: ±16 hours
- Surabaya (Bungurasih) – Bali: ±12 hours
- Jember (Ambulu) – Bali : ±7-8 hours
- Banyuwangi (Ketapang) – Bali: ± 4 hours
Planning to explore the island by bus? Read How to Travel by Bus in Java: A Traveler’s Guide.
Ferry from Ketapang to Gilimanuk
The Ketapang–Gilimanuk ferry operates 24/7 and takes around 1 hour. You don’t need to book in advance—just head to the port and buy your ticket on the spot. Ferries run frequently, but delays are common, especially during bad weather or holiday peaks.
If you’re traveling by bus, the ferry fare is usually included in your ticket. But if you’re going independently, you’ll need to purchase a ferry ticket separately. Tickets cost around IDR 18,000 and are sold at official counters at Ketapang Port.
You can also book online via platforms like tiket.com or Ferizy.com (though in this case you’ll need an Indonesian account, but payment via Alfamart or Indomaret is available if you’re already in Indonesia.)
How to Continue from Gilimanuk
Once you arrive at Gilimanuk Port in Bali, there are several options to continue your journey. For nearby areas, you can find ojek (motorbike taxis) and some local transport, but public transport options are limited.
Backindo Tip: Ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab aren’t allowed to pick up directly at the port. To use one, you’ll likely need to walk a few hundred meters outside the terminal.
Most travelers head straight toward the southern coast. You can also take a minibus to Terminal Mengwi, which connects to Bali’s main destinations.
If you plan to stop in northwestern Bali first, Gilimanuk offers easy access to West Bali National Park, Pemuteran, or Lovina before heading further east.
Domestic Flight to Bali
If you’re short on time or just want a quick and easy trip, flying is the most convenient way to get from Java to Bali. Dozens of daily flights connect major cities in Java to Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar, Bali. Most flights are direct and take between 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your departure city.
You can catch a flight to Bali from almost every major airport in Java. Here are some of the most common routes:
- Jakarta (Soekarno-Hatta International Airport – CGK), flight time ±1h 50m
- Yogyakarta (Yogyakarta International Airport – YIA), flight time: ±1h 20m
- Surabaya (Juanda International Airport – SUB), flight time: ±1h
- Semarang (Ahmad Yani International Airport – SRG), flight time: ±1h 15m
- Solo (Adi Soemarmo Airport – SOC), flight time: ±1h 20m
Flight prices can vary depending on the airline, booking time, and travel season, but on average, one-way tickets from Java to Bali range from IDR 690,000 to 1,500,000.
Backindo Tip: Domestic flights in Indonesia are often subject to delays, so it's best to book a morning flight, as early departures tend to be more on time.
Renting a Car with Driver
If you’re not in the mood for juggling train times or figuring out bus transfers, hiring a car with a driver might be the way to go. It’s a good option if you want to explore a bit more of East Java at your own pace — especially if you’re starting from places like Surabaya, Malang, or Probolinggo.
You can stop wherever you like — grab lunch with a view, visit a quiet village, or check out a waterfall you wouldn’t otherwise reach. It’s not fancy, just more flexible. And if you’re traveling with 2–4 people, splitting the cost usually makes it quite reasonable.
Once you reach Ketapang Port, your driver can drop you off and from there you just take the ferry. On the Bali side, you can continue by bus or arrange another ride depending on where you’re headed.
If you need a reliable driver around East Java, feel free to email us at hello@backindo.com and we’ll connect you with a trusted local contact.
Joining Tours
Another option to get from Java to Bali — especially if you’d like to see a few highlights along the way — is to join a multi-day overland tour. These typically start in Malang or Surabaya, and include stops at places like Mount Bromo, Tumpak Sewu, and Ijen Crater, before continuing on to Bali.
Tours often include transportation, accommodation, entrance tickets, and a set itinerary, which can make things easier if you don’t want to organize everything yourself. Just keep in mind that schedules are usually fixed, so there’s less flexibility to adjust plans once you’re on the road.
Some tours end in Ubud or Denpasar, while others may drop you off in different parts of Bali — so it’s worth checking the details in advance to make sure the route works for you.
Why Travel from Java to Bali?
Unlike Bali, many parts of Java are less touristy, giving you a chance to enjoy stunning destinations without the crowds. With a flexible route—combining flights, trains, buses, or cars—you can explore Java comfortably at your own pace. Spending 1–2 weeks in Java before relaxing in Bali offers a richer, more balanced travel experience than heading straight to the beach.
Read more in our 14-Day Java Itinerary Full of Hidden Gems
You won’t need a new visa, your Indonesian SIM card will still work, and there’s no need to change currency. But once you step into Bali, the vibe shifts. The island’s lush beauty, vibrant culture, and relaxed rhythm offer a perfect contrast to the rich heritage and raw landscapes of Java. So after exploring Java’s treasures, crossing over to Bali feels like the perfect way to end—or begin—the next chapter of your Indonesian adventure.