Bali gets plenty right, although public transportation is one area where the island leaves you to figure things out yourself – a fairly decent trade-off for everything else, to be fair. Getting around usually comes down to choosing between apps, taxis, scooters, or a car with a driver, each with its own case depending on your budget, confidence, and plans for the day. Here is what each choice costs, how safe and legal it is, and which one makes the most sense for your trip.
Your Main Transport Options in Bali
Grab and Gojek are easy choices for short trips, with motorbike and car services available. Taxis suit travelers who prefer a car ride, while scooter rentals appeal to confident riders who want independence. For sightseeing days, families, or longer distances, hiring a car with a driver is the least complicated option. It also helps to spend time navigating areas in Bali, since short distances can take longer than expected.
Using Grab and Gojek to Get Around
Grab and Gojek work much like other ride-hailing apps, so there is very little learning curve involved. Enter your pickup point and destination, choose a motorbike or car, and the app shows the fare before booking. Motorbike rides are usually cheapest for short journeys, and can be handy when Bali traffic decides not to move, while cars make more sense with luggage, several passengers, or anyone who would rather not balance a backpack on two wheelers.
In Seminyak, both apps operate normally. In parts of Canggu and Ubud, local taxi groups may restrict pickups in certain zones, so you might need to walk a short distance to meet your driver. Usually, that means shifting your pickup pin or walking a few minutes rather than abandoning the app altogether.
Taking a Taxi in Bali
Bluebird is the best-known official metered taxi company in Bali. If you hail one, check that the meter is running before settling in for the ride. Unofficial taxis and freelance drivers are also common, but fares may be negotiated rather than metered, which is perfectly workable as long as everyone agrees on the number first.
If there is no meter, agree on the price before getting in. You can also check the same route on Grab or Gojek first to get a sense of the going rate.
Renting a Scooter in Bali
Scooter rentals are available throughout tourist areas, starting around IDR 60,000 to IDR 100,000 per day in the supplied sources. Rental shops may ask for identification, a deposit, contact details, and payment upfront.
Before leaving, inspect the tires, brakes, lights, bodywork, and helmet. Take photos or video of existing scratches. Bali traffic can be dense and unpredictable, and road surfaces vary, so scooters are best suited to experienced riders.
Do You Need an International Driving Permit?
Yes. To ride legally, you need an International Driving Permit with the correct motorcycle endorsement alongside your national license. Riding without one can lead to fines during police checks.
There is also an insurance risk. If you are injured while riding without the required license or permit, your travel insurer may reject the claim. A rental shop handing you the keys does not mean you are legally covered.
What’s the Cheapest Way to Get Around Bali?
For short trips, GrabBike or GoRide is usually the cheapest paid option, with typical rides in the supplied material around IDR 15,000 to IDR 25,000. Scooter rentals can cost around IDR 60,000 to IDR 100,000 per day, plus fuel. Taxis cost more, while a private driver can run around IDR 500,000 to IDR 700,000 for a day.
For getting around town, ride-hailing motorbikes usually win on price. For repeated journeys over a full day, a scooter rental may cost less overall, provided you are licensed, insured, and comfortable riding.
Getting to The Forge
Seminyak can get busy, and parking at many popular venues is limited. For a visit to The Forge, Grab or Gojek can save you the trouble of finding a space. If you are arriving from Ngurah Rai International Airport, this guide to getting from the airport to Seminyak can help with the first leg.
Once you know how you are getting there, you can book your seat at The Forge or make a reservation before heading over. In Bali, a little transport planning goes a long way, leaving more of the evening for the reason you went out in the first place.
