The first place you set foot in once you’re in Bali is the airport. And while airports can be notoriously busy and confusing to navigate in their own right, ensuring you’ve planned how you’re getting to and from the airport will make your trip smoother. 

Whether that’s with an airport transfer shuttle organised by your accommodation or you’re prepared to order your ride with the local ride-share apps like Gojek or Grab, understanding the ins and outs of the entire process will save you stress and time — whether you’re arriving for your holiday in Bali, or heading home after a well-deserved break. 

Bali’s main international airport is Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar Airport. Depending on where you’re staying in Bali, it can be relatively easy to get to the airport by car. The airport is around a 10-15 minute drive from Kuta and a 25-35 minute drive from Seminyak. If you’re staying in Canggu or Ubud, these are slightly further away from the airport (45 minutes and 1.5 hours, respectively). 

Additionally, Denpasar Airport is conveniently located near some of Bali’s most iconic tourist attractions, including the Uluwatu Temple and Kuta Beach.

There are several airport transfer and shuttle options available to and from Denpasar Airport, and depending on your preferences, you’ll find a service that best suits your needs easily.

Bali Airport transfer bus is an excellent option for budget travellers. Tran Sarbagita buses connect Ngurah Rai Airport with several popular locations across the island.

The bus fare is super affordable. So, it is the best choice for backpackers or solo travellers. The bus fare from the airport to Nusa Dua or Batu Bulan is only AU$0.30. 

While these buses technically leave at scheduled times, service frequency and hours are known to fluctuate quite a bit depending on the day and route. In other words, you might catch it as it pulls up, wait a few minutes, or you might have to wait upwards of an hour. It’s a gamble, but it’s incredibly cheap, so it’s still a good option for budget-conscious travellers or backpackers. 

Getting a taxi to Bali airport is easy and convenient. Most hotels will be able to help you book a taxi, or you can book a reliable taxi company like Blue Bird Group. 

Taxis use a metered fare. The cost is calculated based on the distance, and there is no need to negotiate the fares. Toll roads apply. A taxi ride should cost you around AU$14-35, depending on where you’re travelling from. 

It’s also important to note that taxis in Bali are cash-only. So, make sure you have some cash on hand.

Rideshare apps in Bali are popular and are often regarded as the best way to get around, especially to the airport. Ordering a Grab or Gojek is cheaper than a taxi and should cost you around AU$6-27, depending on where you’re coming from. 

The cheapest way to get to and from Bali airport is via Bali’s Tran Sarbagita buses, a ride is less than AU$1, however, be warned, bus timetables are unreliable. If you have plenty of time to kill before your scheduled departure, you could consider taking the bus. However, most travellers (especially when catching a flight) would prefer to order a ride from Gojek or Grab or organise a private airport transfer for a peace of mind. 

The fastest way to get to the airport is to book a private airport transfer or to order a Gojek or Grab. Booking a private transfer can be prearranged, which means there’s less time waiting for your driver to arrive; therefore, it is ultimately the fastest way to get to the airport.