Is there a train to Bali?

No, there is no railway line connecting Java to Bali.

How long is the ferry?

The ferry crossing from Ketapang to Gilimanuk takes about 45 minutes.

Check the latest visa-on-arrival requirements for your nationality.

Yes, Grab and Gojek are widely available in Denpasar.

What is the best airport?

Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is the only airport in Bali.

Jakarta

Denpasar

Bus Flight

Jakarta to Denpasar

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Jakarta to Denpasar spans approximately 1,200 km. Most travelers prefer a direct flight from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport to Ngurah Rai International Airport. Alternatively, you can take a long-distance bus via the Trans-Java Toll Road and the Ketapang-Gilimanuk ferry. The flight takes roughly 2 hours, while the overland route requires over 24 hours. This route connects the capital city to the primary gateway of Bali.

Total Distance: Driving distance 1,200 km, Air distance 960 km.

Fastest Way

Flight is the fastest, taking only 2 hours from takeoff to landing.

Cheapest Way

Bus travel is the cheapest option, costing around IDR 600,000.

Compare Jakarta to Denpasar Routes

	Bus Direct	Flight Direct
Duration	26 hours	2 hours
Avg Price	IDR 500,000 - 800,000	IDR 900,000 - 2,500,000
Operator	PO Pahala Kencana	Garuda Indonesia
Route	Trans-Java Toll Road to Ketapang Ferry Port	CGK to DPS
Tip	Ensure your bus ticket includes the ferry crossing fee.	Book at least three weeks in advance for the best rates.

Travel Tips

Airport Transfer
Use official airport taxis or ride-hailing apps like Grab to avoid overcharging.
Currency
Carry cash in Indonesian Rupiah as smaller shops may not accept cards.
Dress Code
Wear modest clothing when visiting temples or government offices.
Connectivity
Purchase a local SIM card at the airport for reliable mobile data.
Hydration
Drink bottled water only to avoid stomach issues during your stay.

Safety Tips

Traffic Awareness
Traffic in Denpasar can be chaotic; always use pedestrian crossings.
Scam Prevention
Be wary of unofficial tour guides offering suspiciously cheap deals.
Emergency Numbers
Save the local police and ambulance numbers in your phone.
Valuables
Keep your passport and large amounts of cash in a hotel safe.