Bali is one of the most famous travel destinations in Indonesia and a top choice for international travelers. However, even though Bali is very popular, it is not as urban as cities like Jakarta or Surabaya, which have many public transport options and large transit systems.
That doesn’t mean Bali has no public transportation at all. In recent years, Bali has developed several integrated and comfortable public transport services that make getting around easier for both locals and tourists. .
So in this guide, I’ll walk you through the public transportation options in Bali, along with other ways to get around, to help you travel more smoothly and comfortably.
Traffic Conditions in Bali
Before talking about public transportation, it’s important to understand the traffic situation in Bali. As one of Indonesia’s most popular tourist destinations, some parts of the island—especially South Bali, such as Kuta and Canggu—can get very busy. Many roads here are narrow, which often causes traffic jams, particularly during peak hours.
In contrast, areas like West and North Bali are generally much quieter, with smoother traffic and fewer vehicles. This difference in traffic conditions can affect which type of transport is best for your trip.
Public Transport Options in Bali
Trans Metro Dewata Bus
Trans Metro Dewata is the most affordable public transportation option in Bali, and it covers a wide range of areas. The buses are well integrated with each other and with other transport modes, which is why they are widely used, especially by local residents.
These red buses are easy to recognize and are equipped with air conditioning and priority seating. They operate on fixed routes and stop at designated bus stops along each corridor.
Here are the main routes:
- Corridor 1: Kuta Central Parking – Pesiapan Terminal (Tabanan)
- Corridor 2: Ubung Terminal – Ngurah Rai International Airport
- Corridor 3: Ubung Terminal – Icon Mall Bali (Sanur)
- Corridor 4: Ubung Terminal – Monkey Forest (Ubud)
- Corridor 5: Kuta Central Parking – Bali State Polytechnic
- Corridor 6: Kuta Central Parking – ITDC Nusa Dua
The fare for Trans Metro Dewata is around IDR 4,400 (around 0.25 USD), which is very affordable for such a comfortable public transport option. The buses operate from 4:30 AM to 6:30 PM, with the last trips reaching their final destinations around 10 PM. You can pay using e-money cards or QRIS.
Backindo Tip: It’s best to travel light when using Trans Metro Dewata and to use it for short to medium distances, as the buses can get crowded and luggage space is limited.
Intara Shuttle
This public transport option is still quite new and currently operates only in the Sanur area. The Intara Shuttle is a small minibus with a capacity of about 10-12 passengers and is integrated with the Trans Metro Dewata bus system.
What makes this shuttle unique is its semi-open design. It looks a bit like a golf cart but can carry more passengers. It runs on electric power and has space at the back for a wheelchair, making it more accessible for passengers with disabilities.
The shuttle operates from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with fares around IDR 4,000. Payment is cashless only, using e-money or Close Loop Intara Card.
Angkot (Public Minivan)
‘Angkot’ is another type of public transportation you can still find in Bali. It is more traditional—a small minivan with seats arranged along the sides, so passengers sit facing each other. Angkots usually operate around city areas and busy spots like markets and terminals, and they serve short routes rather than long-distance trips like the Trans Metro buses.
There is no fixed ticket price. You pay based on how far you travel—short trips usually cost around IDR 4,000. You can also get off anywhere along the route without needing to wait for a bus stop.
However, angkots are becoming less common in Bali. Still, if you want a more local and authentic experience, riding an angkot can be an interesting way to get around.
Kura-Kura Bus
Kura-Kura is a shuttle-style public transport service that runs between Kuta and Ubud. It connects several popular stops, including Lippo Mall Bali, Beachwalk, Grand Lucky Sanur, and Puri Lukisan in Ubud. Unlike angkot, this service operates on fixed routes and stops, so you can only get on and off at designated locations.
The ticket price is around IDR 100,000 for a one-way trip and IDR 160,000 for a return ticket. You can buy tickets onboard or through their website at kura2bus.com. If you’re carrying large luggage that requires storage, there is an additional fee of around IDR 20,000.
Other Transportation Options
Besides public transportation, there are several other popular ways to get around Bali:
- Online taxis are booked through mobile apps and are widely used, especially for getting around cities and tourist areas. The most popular ride-hailing services in Bali are Grab and Gojek.
- Regular taxis are easy to find at the airport and in busy areas. For reliable service, Blue Bird is the most recommended taxi company. And they also have an app.
- Motorbike rentals are popular among solo travelers and couples who want more freedom to explore. Motorbikes are flexible on Bali’s narrow roads, and rental prices are quite affordable, usually around IDR 100,000 per day.
- Car rentals with a driver is a solid option — especially if you’re traveling as a group or want to explore places that are a bit off the typical tourist trail. Prices usually range from IDR 800,000 to 1,200,000 for an 8-hour trip, depending on the distance, type of car, and whether you need a driver who speaks English.
Backindo Tip: Don’t forget — you’ll need an international driving license to rent and drive both motorbikes and cars in Bali. And traveling without health insurance? That’s a risk simply not worth taking.
Final Thoughts
Public transportation in Bali may not be as extensive as in big cities like Jakarta, but it is slowly improving. Options like Trans Metro Dewata, the Intara Shuttle, and Kura-Kura Bus make it easier to travel between key areas without relying only on taxis or motorbikes.
For short trips and city travel, public transport can be a budget-friendly and practical choice. However, for more remote areas or flexible schedules, renting a motorbike or hiring a car with a driver is often more convenient.