How to Get from Denpasar to Ubud: by Bus, Taxi, Shuttle, and More

Traveloka Team
07 Aug 2024 - 4 min read

Bali, the name itself conjures images of lush rice paddies, captivating temples, and an atmosphere steeped in rich culture. Ubud, Bali's artistic and spiritual heart, beckons travellers with its vibrant energy and promise of serenity. But before surrendering to the island's magic, you must navigate the journey from Denpasar to Ubud.

This comprehensive guide will equip you with all the knowledge you need to conquer the Denpasar to Ubud route. We'll delve into the five primary travel options, estimated costs, travel times, and valuable pointers to ensure a smooth and enjoyable transfer.

Flight From Singapore to Bali / Denpasar

Wed, 7 May 2025

Batik Air

Singapore (SIN) to Bali / Denpasar (DPS)

Start from 2.187.999 VND

Tue, 13 May 2025

Scoot

Singapore (SIN) to Bali / Denpasar (DPS)

Start from 2.191.950 VND

Mon, 5 May 2025

Jetstar Asia Airways

Singapore (SIN) to Bali / Denpasar (DPS)

Start from 2.323.747 VND

How Far is Bali Airport to Ubud?

Before diving into the transportation options, it's essential to understand the distance between Denpasar and Ubud. The distance from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) to Ubud is approximately 35 to 40 kilometres (22 to 25 miles).

Travel time can vary based on traffic conditions and your transportation mode. Typically, the journey takes between 60 to 90 minutes.

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How to Get from Denpasar to Ubud

How to get to Ubud from Denpasar? Here are your Denpasar to Ubud transportation options:

1. The Public Bus

The simplest way to travel to Ubud is by using the Kura-Kura Bus, which is easily recognisable by its green-yellow colour and serves various routes across Bali.

It departs from DFS T Galleria Bali on Jalan By Pass Ngurah Rai, its central hub. An online motorcycle taxi is the cheapest way to get there from Ngurah Rai Airport. The distance is about seven kilometres and takes around 15 minutes.

At DFS T Galleria, the Kura-Kura Bus stop is in front of the XXI Galleria cinema, where tickets can be bought on-site or online. The route includes stops at several attractions before reaching Puri Lukisan Museum Ubud, with the entire trip taking about two hours. The journey takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Pros

Here are some of the advantages of using this transportation:

How much does it cost to get to Bali using the bus? Extremely affordable. A one-way ticket costs IDR 80,000, while a round-trip ticket costs IDR 120,000.
Immerse yourself in the local experience by travelling alongside Balinese residents.

Cons

Consider these cons before using this transportation:

Longer travel time compared to other options.
Buses can get crowded, especially during peak season.
Limited luggage space.

Tips for Taking the Public Bus

Purchase your ticket directly at the bus terminal.
Carry small denominations of Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) for easier transactions.

2. The Taxi

Taxis offer a more comfortable and convenient alternative to the public bus, especially when you want to go straight from Denpasar Airport to Ubud. You can easily hail a taxi on the streets of Denpasar or pre-book one through a ride-hailing app like Grab or Gojek. The ride to Ubud typically takes 45 minutes to 1 hour, factoring in traffic.

Pros

Here are some of the advantages of using this transportation:

Door-to-door service – No need to navigate bus terminals or transfers.
Faster travel time compared to the public bus.
Relatively comfortable with air conditioning.

Cons

Consider these cons before using this transportation:

Taxi fares can fluctuate depending on the distance, time of day, and traffic conditions, approximately IDR 360,000– IDR 430,000.

Tips for Taking a Taxi:

Agree on the fare with the driver beforehand to avoid last-minute disputes.
Ensure the taxi driver uses the metre.
Carry small denominations of IDR for easier transactions.

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3. Car Rental

Renting a car is an excellent option if you crave the freedom and flexibility of exploring Bali at your own pace. Numerous car rental companies operate in Denpasar, offering a variety of vehicles to suit your budget and needs. The drive to Ubud takes approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic and your chosen route.

Pros

Here are some of the advantages of using this transportation:

Unparalleled flexibility – Stop at scenic viewpoints or explore hidden gems.
It is ideal for groups or travellers with bulky luggage.
Explore Ubud and surrounding areas at your leisure.

Cons

Consider these cons before using this transportation:

Requires an international driver's license.
Traffic congestion can significantly extend travel time.
Parking in Ubud can be challenging, especially during peak season.

Tips for Renting a Car:

Book your car in advance, especially during peak season.
Compare prices and offerings from different car rental companies.
Ensure you understand the insurance policy and any additional charges.
Familiarise yourself with traffic regulations in Bali.

4. Shuttle Services

Shuttle services offer a comfortable and cost-effective alternative to taxis. Shared shuttles operate on predetermined schedules and pick-up/drop-off locations, typically at hotels or designated points in Denpasar. The journey to Ubud usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the number of stops and traffic conditions.

Pros

Here are some of the advantages of using this transportation:

More affordable than taxis, especially for solo travellers.
A comfortable ride with air conditioning.
Convenient pick-up and drop-off points.

Cons

Consider these cons before using this transportation:

Less flexible than taxis or car rentals – Fixed schedule and routes.
Travel time can be longer due to multiple stops.

5. Town Car Service

A town car service provides comfort and convenience for those seeking an opulent arrival in Ubud. Pre-arrange your pick-up at Denpasar Airport or your hotel; a professional driver will whisk you away in a luxurious vehicle. The journey to Ubud takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Pros:

The most luxurious and comfortable travel option.
Door-to-door service with professional drivers.
It is ideal for special occasions or those seeking a stress-free arrival.

Cons:

The most expensive option compared to others.
Limited availability compared to other transportation choices.

Choosing the Right Transportation for You

The ideal mode of transport from Denpasar to Ubud hinges on your priorities and travel style. Here's a quick breakdown to help you decide:

Budget Traveler: Public Bus
Comfort Seeker: Taxi or Shuttle Service
Flexibility Enthusiast: Car Rental
Luxury Aficionado: Town Car Service

Additional Considerations:

Traffic: Bali can experience heavy traffic congestion, particularly during peak season (July-August) and around Denpasar city centre. Factor this in when estimating travel times, especially for taxis, car rentals, and shuttles.
Time of Day: Traffic tends to be lighter in the early mornings and evenings. Consider these times for a faster journey.
Luggage: If you have bulky luggage, car rentals or taxis might be more convenient than public buses or shuttles with limited storage space.

Now that you're armed with the knowledge to navigate the Denpasar to Ubud route, it's time to start planning your dream Balinese escape! For a seamless and enjoyable travel experience, consider booking your transportation through Traveloka. With their wide range of options and competitive prices, Traveloka makes planning your trip from Denpasar to Ubud and beyond easy.

So, get your Singapore to Bali/Denpasar flight tickets, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and let Traveloka guide you on your unforgettable journey to Ubud. Visit Traveloka today to start crafting your dream Balinese adventure!

In This Article

• How Far is Bali Airport to Ubud?
• How to Get from Denpasar to Ubud
• 1. The Public Bus
• Pros
• Cons
• Tips for Taking the Public Bus
• 2. The Taxi
• Pros
• Cons
• Tips for Taking a Taxi:
• 3. Car Rental
• Pros
• Cons
• Tips for Renting a Car:
• 4. Shuttle Services
• Pros
• Cons
• 5. Town Car Service
• Pros:
• Cons:
• Choosing the Right Transportation for You

Flights Featured in This Article

Wed, 7 May 2025
Batik Air
Singapore (SIN) to Bali / Denpasar (DPS)
Start from 2.187.999 VND
Book Now
Tue, 13 May 2025
Scoot
Singapore (SIN) to Bali / Denpasar (DPS)
Start from 2.191.950 VND
Book Now
Mon, 5 May 2025
Jetstar Asia Airways
Singapore (SIN) to Bali / Denpasar (DPS)
Start from 2.323.747 VND
Book Now
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