Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), better known as Denpasar Airport, is the gateway to all of Bali and the starting point for almost every journey to Ubud. Sitting on the coast just south of Kuta, the airport is roughly 35-40 km from central Ubud, a distance that translates to a scenic drive of around one to one-and-a-half hours through the outskirts of Denpasar, past rice paddies and small villages, and finally up into the cooler hills where Ubud rests at the cultural heart of the island.
For first-time visitors, the question of how to get from Denpasar Airport to Ubud is one of the most common logistical puzzles of any Bali trip. There is no single right answer — the best transfer option depends on your budget, group size, arrival time, and how much you value door-to-door convenience over cost savings. This guide breaks down every realistic way to make the journey, with current price ranges, realistic travel times, and practical tips learned from years of traveling this route. We also cover how to book your flights, hotel, rental car, eSIM, scooter, and Bali tours so your entire trip comes together in one place.
The Route at a Glance
The most common route from Denpasar Airport to Ubud heads north through the Bali Mandara toll road and the suburbs of Denpasar, then turns inland following the Ubud road through Batubulan, Singapadu, and the small town of Sukawati before climbing gently into Ubud. The journey passes through a mix of busy urban traffic and quiet countryside, with glimpses of rice paddies, family temples, and roadside craft workshops along the way.
In clear traffic the drive takes around 60 minutes, but during morning and evening rush hours, or on weekends and public holidays, it can stretch to 90 minutes or more. The route is well signed, though navigation apps like Google Maps are the most reliable way to avoid congestion. Allow extra time if you are traveling during the rainy season (November to March), when sudden downpours can slow traffic significantly.
Distance & Time
About 35-40 km, taking 1-1.5 hours by car depending on traffic and weather.
Cost Range
From about USD 5 on a public bus up to USD 60 for a private car with driver for the day.
Best Option
A pre-booked private transfer for most visitors — door-to-door, fixed price, no haggling.
Every Way to Get from Denpasar Airport to Ubud
Private Airport Transfer
Pre-booked private transfers are the most popular choice for visitors arriving at Denpasar Airport heading to Ubud. A driver meets you inside the arrivals hall, helps with luggage, and takes you straight to your hotel in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle. Expect to pay roughly USD 25-45 for a standard car, with slightly higher rates for larger groups or luxury vehicles. The fixed price, door-to-door convenience, and no-haggling experience make this ideal for first-time visitors, families, and late-night arrivals.
Metered Taxi or Ride-Hailing App
Official airport taxis are available from a designated counter near the arrivals exit, with a fixed fare sheet to major destinations including Ubud. Alternatively, ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek operate from Bali, though pickups directly from the airport terminals are restricted to certain zones. Fares to Ubud typically run between USD 20 and 35. This is a convenient option for solo travelers or couples who want a quick, cashless ride without pre-booking, but expect slightly longer waits during peak arrival waves.
Rental Car with a Driver
Renting a car with a local driver gives you flexibility to stop along the way — perhaps at a coffee plantation, the Tegenungan waterfall, or a rice terrace viewpoint — before reaching Ubud. Driver-inclusive rentals usually cost around USD 40-60 per day. This option is excellent if you plan to use the same driver to explore the Ubud area, Tegalalang, Mount Batur, or the east coast during your stay, turning a simple transfer into the first tour of your trip.
Self-Drive Rental Car
If you are confident driving on the left and comfortable with Bali traffic, renting a car to drive yourself from the airport to Ubud is possible. Daily rates start around USD 20-35 for a small SUV or compact car. Note that Bali roads can be busy, narrow in places, and signage is limited, so this option suits experienced drivers who want full independence for day trips beyond Ubud. An International Driving Permit is legally required.
Public Bus (Perama or Kura-Kura)
Budget travelers can take a Perama bus or Kura-Kura Bus service from near the airport or Kuta toward Ubud. These shuttle services are cheap and reasonably reliable, but run on fixed schedules with limited departures each day and often require a connection or short taxi hop from the airport terminal to the bus departure point. Expect a total journey of around 2-3 hours. This is the most economical way to reach Ubud, though least convenient with heavy luggage.
Scooter (Experienced Riders Only)
Some adventurous travelers rent a scooter near the airport and ride to Ubud. The route is scenic but involves busy main roads and winding sections near the Ubud turnoff. This is only recommended for experienced motorbike riders with proper helmets and insurance. Scooter rentals cost around USD 5-10 per day, plus fuel. Avoid this option if it is your first time riding in Bali traffic, especially with luggage.
Tips for a Smooth Transfer
A little preparation goes a long way on this route. If you arrive late at night or during heavy rain, a pre-booked private transfer is almost always the most stress-free choice, since drivers track your flight and wait for you regardless of delays. For daytime arrivals on a tight budget, the official airport taxi counter or a ride-hailing app from a nearby pickup point offer good value without the need to negotiate. Whatever you choose, it is wise to have a small amount of Indonesian rupiah on hand for tolls, parking, and small tips, even if most drivers accept digital payments.
- The drive from Denpasar Airport (DPS) to Ubud is about 35-40 km and typically takes 1-1.5 hours
- Traffic is heaviest between Kuta/Seminyak and the airport turnoff during morning and evening rush hours
- Most Ubud hotels can arrange an airport pickup in advance if you prefer a seamless arrival
- Have some Indonesian rupiah on hand for tolls, parking, and small tips
- Ride-hailing apps work well in Bali but have restricted pickup zones inside the airport terminal
- The scenic route through Sangeh monkey forest adds about 20 minutes but is a beautiful detour
Fly Into Bali (Denpasar)
Compare live flight prices to Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) from cities worldwide. Most international carriers and several low-cost airlines serve Bali directly, with connections from Australia, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
Where to Stay in Ubud
Ubud offers everything from budget guesthouses in the town center to luxury jungle resorts with infinity pools overlooking rice terraces. Book early for stays during the high season from July to September and around Christmas.
Book Ubud HotelsRent a Car in Bali
A rental car, ideally with a local driver, is the most flexible way to explore beyond Ubud — the Tegalalang rice terraces, Tirta Empul temple, Mount Batur, and the east coast are all within easy day-trip range.
Stay Connected with a Bali eSIM
Skip the airport SIM card queues and activate a Bali eSIM before you land, so you have data the moment you walk out of arrivals at Denpasar Airport — perfect for booking a ride or calling your hotel.
Get a Bali eSIMRent a Scooter or Bike
Once you are settled in Ubud, a scooter is a popular way to explore the surrounding rice paddies, waterfalls, and villages at your own pace. Book one online in advance and skip the roadside haggling.
Rent a ScooterBook Bali Experiences
From sunrise treks up Mount Batur to cooking classes, waterfall tours, and temple visits, book top-rated Bali experiences and tours ahead of time to secure your spot during busy months.
Book ExperiencesThings to Do Once You Reach Ubud
Arriving in Ubud is just the beginning. The area is Bali's cultural and spiritual center, packed with temples, art markets, yoga studios, and natural wonders. From the Sacred Monkey Forest and Tegalalang rice terraces to waterfalls, silver-smithing villages, and Mount Batur sunrise treks, there is far more to explore than a single trip allows. Browse and book some of the most popular Ubud tours below.
The Journey in Pictures
The drive from Denpasar Airport to Ubud is one of the most scenic short transfers in Bali, winding from the coast through Denpasar's outskirts and up into the green hills of central Bali. Here is a glimpse of what awaits along the way. Follow #ubudbali on Instagram for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Ubud from Denpasar Airport?
Ubud is approximately 35-40 km from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar. By car the journey usually takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, though it can stretch to two hours during peak traffic or rain, especially when passing through the Kuta and Denpasar congestion.
What is the cheapest way to get from Denpasar Airport to Ubud?
The cheapest option is the Perama or Kura-Kura shuttle bus, which costs around USD 5-12 per person, though it requires a taxi or short ride to the bus departure point and runs on a fixed schedule. For door-to-door convenience on a budget, a metered airport taxi or ride-hailing app is usually the next most affordable option at roughly USD 20-35.
How much is a taxi from Denpasar Airport to Ubud?
An official airport taxi from Denpasar Airport to Ubud generally costs between USD 20 and 35, depending on the provider and time of day. Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek offer similar fares, but note that direct pickups from inside the airport terminal may be restricted to certain zones.
Should I pre-book a private transfer from the airport to Ubud?
Pre-booking a private transfer is highly recommended if you are arriving late at night, traveling with family or lots of luggage, or visiting Bali for the first time. A driver meets you inside arrivals, the price is fixed in advance, and there is no need to negotiate or find the taxi counter after a long flight.
Can I rent a car at Denpasar Airport and drive to Ubud?
Yes, several international and local car rental desks operate at Ngurah Rai Airport. Self-drive rentals are suitable for experienced drivers comfortable with Bali traffic, while a car-with-driver option is popular for those who prefer to relax. An International Driving Permit is legally required to drive in Indonesia.
Is there a direct bus from Denpasar Airport to Ubud?
There is no bus that departs directly from inside the airport terminal, but Perama and Kura-Kura bus services run from nearby pickup points toward Ubud with a few departures per day. The total journey, including the short transfer to the bus stop, usually takes 2-3 hours.
What airport do I fly into for Ubud, Bali?
All flights to Bali land at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), also known as Denpasar Airport, located in Tuban just south of Kuta. From there, Ubud is around a 1-1.5 hour drive inland through Denpasar and the Bali countryside.
Plan Your Bali Trip Today
Getting from Denpasar Airport to Ubud is straightforward once you know your options. Whether you choose a private transfer, a taxi, a rental car, or a budget bus, the journey into Bali's cultural heart is the first memorable chapter of your trip. Compare live flight prices, lock in a hotel in Ubud, arrange a rental car or scooter for exploring, grab a Bali eSIM, and book your favorite tours — everything you need to plan the journey is right here.