Private car with driver
Hiring a car with an English-speaking driver is the most popular way to explore. It's affordable, comfortable and flexible: your driver waits while you visit temples or waterfalls and often knows the best local warungs. Full-day hire (around 10 hours) typically covers fuel and parking; entrance fees and meals are extra.
Ride-hailing apps & taxis
Grab and Gojek operate in most tourist areas for short trips by car or motorbike taxi. Some villages and resort areas restrict app pickups, so you may need to walk to a main road. Bluebird is the most reliable metered taxi company — always make sure the meter is on.
Scooters
Scooters are everywhere, but traffic is chaotic and accidents involving tourists are common. You legally need an International Driving Permit with a motorcycle endorsement and must wear a helmet. Many travel insurance policies won't cover you without the correct licence.
Fast boats to the islands
Fast boats leave Sanur for Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan several times a day (about 40 minutes), and from Padang Bai, Serangan and Amed for Lombok and the Gili Islands. Seas can be rough in the afternoon and during the wet season, so morning departures are best.
Typical travel times
Distances look short on a map, but roads are narrow and busy. Plan realistic days:
- Seminyak → Ubud: 1–1.5 hrs
- Ubud → Kintamani (Mount Batur): 1 hr
- Ubud → Lempuyang (East Bali): 2 hrs
- Canggu → Uluwatu: 1–1.5 hrs
- Seminyak → Bedugul: 1.5–2 hrs
This guide is general information and was last reviewed in September 2026. Rules, fees and prices change — please check official sources before travelling.